As soon as she entered the arena Shiya wondered if this terrain was going to work in her advantage. It could be, if she played her cards right. With all the houses around one had a lot of hiding spots, but if that was such a great thing... The girl of fifteen slowly walked closer to the center, her left hand resting on the large scroll she had strapped to her back, her eyes searching for her upcoming opponent. Who she then suddenly spotted on one of the buildings. A smile ran over Shiya's face and she brushed some of her white hair out of her eyes to see the boy better. For a moment she inspected her black polished nails against the sun and then called out to the boy: "Hayate Hyuzu, am I right?" She asked. "That is a pretty cute name."

His eyes opening with eyebrows raised, Hayate stood to his feet slowly. Stretching himself out, he gazed down at the girl, scratching the back of his neck. "Uh... Thanks? I take it you must be Haruhi Suzumori then?" Wondering whether or not he should hop down from his new 'perch,' Hayate took a step towards the edge of the roof.

Shiya let out a laugh. Did she look like a Haruhi? She thought not. The name Haruhi sounded like a little scared girl. She was so not that. "No, sorry to disappoint you." She said, bowing slightly. "Shiya Guujin is the name. It seems your opponent was indisposed and so was mine. It's like fate~" She smiled again and took note that the boy was going to jump down. "Where are my manners..." She said as she took the initiative and jumped up to appear next to Hayate on the roof. He was taller then she was, but that was okay. She did like tall guys. "Nice to meet you." She practically beamed as she stood next to him and extended her hand while her eyes shot around the arena from above.

Remembering Kiyomi's words about bowing, Hayate did not return the girl's bow, though it was difficult to fight the urge. Something about the girl put him on edge, and Hayate took a step back when she leapt up to the roof next to him. Staring at the hand for a long moment, he hesitated. "Well, if that is indeed the case then it is nice to meet you as well. Though, you'll have to forgive me for not returning your handshake." Cocking his head to the side, Hayate shrugged apologetically. "I'd rather not get too familiar with someone I just met, especially someone that I'm supposed to fight in a few moments."

"Ah well that is fine. I can understand that." Shiya said and dropped her hand like it wasn't a bother at all. "Maybe you could return the handshake after the battle? We could have a drink..." She wiggled her eyebrows and then took a couple of steps back. Her other hand was still resting on the scroll. She gave the boy another curious look. For the girl from Iwagakure it was strange to meet new people, especially since so many of her village had died. And yet, he seemed colder than she was. More on edge like a bent bow, ready to pop. She found no difficulties in fighting the same with strangers of people that were familiar to her. If he did have that trouble, then she should work with that. "I guess we should start than. Do you have a lot of people watching? Friends? Family? Girlfriend?~" She asked him as she took another step back and formed the Seal of Confrontation.

His eyes travelled down to the scroll that Shiya's hand rested on, before looking back up at her. Getting himself into more of a ready stance, Hayate took a few small steps back so that there was room between him and the strange girl. "No." He said after a pause, his voice holding a polite yet cautious tone. "You?" Bringing his hands up, Hayate formed the Seal as well.

Shiya's free hand waved to the crowd somewhere on her right. "My mom is here, dad couldn't come. And my sensei, of course. He wouldn't want to miss it. Most of my friends couldn't make it though. They are either fighting or watching others. Which is totally fine. You know my best friend told me that-" She stopped herself and chuckled. "You know what, never mind." Unlike Hayate she didn't lower herself in any stance, but just kept standing in an easy pose. Slowly she lowered the seal. "Let's start." Her finger opened the scroll slightly, but she didn't pull it out yet.

Nodding almost imperceptibly, Hayate swiftly reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out two kunai, whipping them towards Shiya. At the same time, he leapt backwards towards the edge of the roof, preparing to jump off.

In a flash Shiya pulled her scroll open and had slammed her hand on it, her finger already cut open by the clasp that opened the scroll. A large puff of smoke emerged around Shiya, obstructing her from Hayate's view for a moment. Then suddenly her figure seemed to emerge from the smoke and fly straight at Hayate. At first glance the figure looked the same, but on a second take you would see that it was not Shiya who had emerged, but rather a pretty wooden version of her. The two kunai were embedded in the chest of the puppet and didn't seem to hinder it. With the smoke settling down, Hayate would be able to see his real opponent again, another puppet standing at her side, as the first swooped in to attack the boy with its fists.

Hmm. Hayate thought before pushing himself into a backflip off of the roof. As he flipped, he pulled two shuriken from his pouch and sent some of his chakra into them, causing them to become unstable. Sending one hurling towards the real Shiya, and one towards the dummy, Hayate fell backwards to the ground below. He landed gracefully and pulled out his staff, preparing to defend himself.

The first puppet got the first blow. With a flick of her finger Shiya raised the arm of the puppet to swap the shuriken away, but as soon as it hit the weapon an explosion occured at their collision point. Some of the wood was cipped away and revealed some of the metal behind it. The look of a blade. Shiya tsk'ed. She had put a lot of effort in those puppets. They were not going to be destroyed so easily! She shot to the side to avoid the other shuriken and ran forwards to the edge of the building to watch Hayate from above. "I guess I should introduce you. Hayate, these are Youchi," she gestured to the puppet that had attacked Hayate first, "and Shubi.' She gestured to the puppet on her side. "My own creations. Aren't they amazing? If I grow up to be as tall as them I might be just as tall as you!" Her hand shot forwards and Youchi shot forwards to Hayate, swooping in from the side with its fist forward.

Seeing that he had managed to at least damage one of the puppets slightly, Hayate's eyes narrowed slightly. He had hoped to accomplish more with his attack, but this had given him some valuable information about the puppet. Smirking ever so slightly when Shiya boasted about her puppets, Hayate thought quickly. He would have to be careful, from what he had heard of puppets, he knew they were capable of holding multiple hidden weapons, and Hayate wasn't in the mood for surprises.

Pushing himself backwards as the puppet swung in from the side, Hayate swept his staff around, knocking Youchi away. He moved back further with a backwards handspring, already reaching inside his jacket as he landed. Withdrawing some metal from his pouch, Hayate began spreading it over his skin, allowing the metal armour to form underneath his clothing. It would take a short time for the armour to spread fully, and so he needed to be careful until that point. Glancing up at the roof, Hayate wanted to draw Shiya down to the street-level if his plan was going to work.

But Shiya didn't fancy coming down so soon. To be honest this was the perfect spot to play out her carefully choreographed puppetplay. A real puppet master was always behind or above their puppets after all, so her spot was just fine. Youchi was knocked to the side, but since puppets didn't feel pain it was no problem whatsoever. There was of course one problem Shiya had to calculate in. If Hayate moved away too much from the building she would have to come down. Her Chakra Threads could only reach so far. So she veered Youchi in a curved arc around Hayate, aiming to capture his attention by lashing out to him again and push him closer to the building again where as Shubi moved forwards slightly and started to send down a rain of senbons towards the boy.

As the senbons and the puppet surged towards him, Hayate simply prepared himself for the impact. Raising his arms slightly in a defensive position, he did not move as he was struck on both sides-- before poofing away in a small burst of smoke. The senbons would strike the small wooden block that he had used to replace himself. Hayate appeared out of sight behind a small building a short ways away. Quickly forming the necessary handseals, he formed a single shadow clone and sent it below the earth. With that done, Hayate made his way between the buildings, heading towards the courtyard he had spotted earlier.

Huh... Shiya thought almost lazily as she saw Hayate disappear. Body Replacement Technique. Welll, yes that worked quite nicely. Her eyes shot around as she pulled Youchi back, closer to herself. The buildings weren't evenly spread so jumping from on to another wasn't as easy. That meant that there were two options. She could stay on the roof, at some point the guy had to attack her, or she could jump down and search for him. So far she didn't really have a clue as what her opponent was capable of besides Body Replacement stuff. Suddenly she just decided. She jumped down walked a couple of steps forward and jumped to the next building. If she would keep up the method of getting up high she would have to find him eventually, right?

Approaching the entrance to the courtyard, Hayate stayed close to the corner of the building he was behind. Peering out around the corner, he could make out the entire courtyard, but still he saw no sign of Shiya. Walking out into the open was always a risk, but if Hayate's plan was going to work, he was going to have to take a few of those. Stepping out into the courtyard, he looked around, keeping a close eye on the surrounding rooftops. Hayate wouldn't be able to watch every direction at once, but he knew roughly where he had last seen Shiya, and if she was approaching from the same direction, he would at least be a little more prepared. Walking closer to the middle of the courtyard, Hayate pulled out two kunai, and kept an eye out. Where are you...

Shiya did indeed come from the direction that Hayate had been guessing. She spotted the courtyard with the boy in it and halted on top of the building. Oh, that was smart. The courtyard was big enough so that she would be unable to reach all the way across to him if she was on a building. Meaning she had to get down. So she did. With slow steps she walked forwards to Hayate. With the movement of several fingers she send Youchi forward again. She was pretty sure Hayate was going to dodge, but that might just be exactly what she wanted.

Seeing movement out of the corner of his eye, Hayate turned slightly as Shiya entered the courtyard. Seeing the puppet surging towards him once again, Hayate sent a small amount of his chakra flowing into his two kunai and charged forwards. Throwing one of the kunai towards Youchi, he set it to explode upon contact. Shifting slightly, Hayate threw the second kunai past Youchi and towards Shiya, setting it to explode a couple of feet in front of her. The blast wasn't meant to harm her, it was merely meant to be a distraction. Closing in on the first puppet, Hayate waited to see what would happen.

He had send kunai before and Shiya didn't fancy her puppets being blown up more. Her fingers moved and a blade emerged from Youchi's arm that smashed the kunai aside. The thing exploded, but the blade could handle that. At least the wood wouldn't be blown up now. The other arm of the puppet lashed out towards Hayate as a blade appeared from that arm as well. Meanwhile Shiya tried to get Shubi before her to block the incoming kunai, but the thing exploded before her, making Shiya take a step back.

Ducking beneath the incoming blade, Hayate felt it pass over him. That had been close. Taking advantage of the momentary distraction caused by the second explosion, Hayate surged forwards, charging towards Shiya. Pulling out two kunai once again, Hayate prepared to throw them towards his opponent. This time, however, he did not charge the weapons. His hope was that Shiya would be expecting the kunai to explode yet again, and he needed her to be focused on that more than on the effect the weapons would actually have. Sending the kunai flying towards her, spaced so that they would pass by her on either side unless she blocked them, Hayate continued his charge, closing the distance quickly.

Shiya tsk'ed as Youchi missed his target. She pulled him back to surge after the dashing Hayate who had launched more kunai. Really, she thought as she moved Shubi even closer. Was he going to keep blowing her up? Or try at least? Well Shubi could block them. She just had to deal with the incoming Hayate who apparantly had pisspoor aim cause the kunai soared right past her. Shiya's fingers moved and suddenly, as Hayate came dangerously close, Shubi seemed to fall apart. The pieces detached themselves and launched themselves at Hayate, swirling around him like a storm. The pieces itself couldn't do much damage, besides some slight bruising, but they should serve as a nice distraction so that Youchi could swoop in and stab the boy in the back.

The kunai had done their job in keeping Shiya in the same spot. As Hayate charged forwards, he noticed the puppet in front of him breaking apart into numerous pieces. His eyes narrowing slightly, Hayate continued moving towards Shiya. His metal armour would prevent the puppet from doing any actual damage but it was still a nuisance, and Hayate moved faster, trying to push through it.

The second puppet, Youchi, had come in for an attack from behind, just as Hayate had anticipated. He had not had a chance to see what the puppet would attack with, however, so he only hoped his metal armour would provide enough protection. Feeling the impact of Youchi's blade striking his armour, Hayate was thrown forwards, pushing him off balance. Reaching out with one hand, he managed to push off from the ground and spring himself forwards, on to his feet again. Hayate was glad that his armour had held, otherwise that blade would have... Shaking the thought form his mind, Hayate returned his focus to the task at hand. So far, things were going to plan, after all, he was just the distraction...

Suddenly, a hand burst from the ground below Shiya's feet, reaching up to grab her ankle and pull her below. Hayate's clone hoped to catch her off guard while she was distracted with the real one on the surface. Using the double suicide decapitation technique, he attempted to pull her below the earth.

Shiya knew that Youchi had hit which was why she stopped the swirling mass of wood and slowly called it back. The problem with the technique and with puppets in general was that you couldn't feel exactly what you did. She kwen she had hit, she just didn't know what kind of damage she had done because she couldn't see Hayate clearly. But when she pulled Shubi back... the boy seemed to be fine. She gaped slightly only to feel a hand grab her ankle. "Oh come on..." She called. The hand started to pull her down, Shiya's hands moved. First Shubi, now reassembled again, released a smoke bomb towards the ground before Hayate's which would explode as soon as it would touch something. Youchi dropped to the ground as Shiya put both of her hands in the dirt to try and assert some strength so that she wouldn't be dragged in, her foot kicking around randomly in the earth to try and hit the freaking guy.

Feeling her fighting back, Hayate's clone managed to latch his other hand around Shiya's flailing limb. Holding on as securely as he could, the clone resumed his attempt to pull her below the surface, using all of his strength to try and break her hold on the earth above.

On the surface, Hayate saw the bomb being thrown and quickly flipped backwards. Allowing the metal armour to come up and cover his head, Hayate was now completely encased. As the smoke began filling the area, Hayate did his best to ignore it, moving to where he had last seen Shiya. Pulling out his staff, he moved carefully, cautious for any sign of movement. Hayate wasn't too familiar with the way that puppet users worked, and he wasn't sure if Shiya was able to manipulate her puppets while she was preoccupied.

Focusing on hearing instead of sight, Hayate made his way to the sound of struggling. He could barely make out the shape of something below him, so he crouched down, holding the staff out in front of him. Turning the staff so that the one of the ends was facing his opponent, Hayate flowed a little of his chakra into it, allowing the end to become sharpened. "Yield?" He asked, his tone strangely polite.

Now Shiya wasn't someone who took challengers very far. If she knew she was going to lose she bailed. But she was not losing yet! Frustrated Shiya lashed out with one hand to get Youchi up. She was losing the struggle and she knew it, but she could at least try one more thing, if it wouldn't work then yielding might be a good option. Shubi followed the movement. Those puppets weighted at least as much as she did so... Shiya was nearly completely pulled into the ground now when the two puppets shot backwards, away from Shiya, wanting to pull her out, but they were too late. Hayate dragged Shiya down further so that her arms went into the ground as well. Shiya sighed.

"Where are you?" She called. "How can I tell you I yield without looking you in the eye?"

Grinning for a moment, Hayate nodded his head. Not that she would see, but it was more to confirm to himself what he was going to do. Putting the staff away at his back, Hayate quickly made several handseals before withdrawing just enough metal from his hand to draw some blood. Slamming his palm into the earth, a large puff of smoke appeared behind him, adding to the already dense cloud. A large shadow could be seen looming behind Hayate, and a low growling noise came forth. "Clear it." Hayate spoke through the neural link. A snort of apprehension could be heard behind him. "Please..." Hayate added, with an amused tone.

There was a brief silence before the air around them began to grow heavy. With a roar, and a tremendous gust of wind, the smoke around them was blown away completely. Hayate knelt in front of Shiya, still grinning slightly. Kuromu stood tall behind him, his wings splayed out, and a small stream of fire coming from his nostrils when he exhaled. It was purely for show, as Kurmou had a flair for theatrics. His pride demanded that he make a lasting impression. Cocking his head to the side, Hayate's smile widened. "So?"

Shiya stared. That was literally all she was doing. But what did you expect with a freaking dragon before you. A real firebreathing dragon. What. The. Hell. Instead of being afraid however, a smile formed on Shiya's face. A smile that grew. "Well," she said. "You know how to impress a girl. I guess I have no choice now." She lifted her head with as much pride as she could muster while being in her current position.

"I yield." There was a short pause, after which she added: "And can you come over now, I have this terrible itch on my nose and I can't scratch it because of what you did. So you kind of owe me."

Dissipating his clone, Hayate stepped towards Shiya, still smiling. Reaching beneath the earth, he grabbed hold of her arm and helped pull her to the surface. Taking a step back, he realized she was covered in dirt and reached up to scratch the back of his head, letting out a slightly embarrassed chuckle. "Uh... sorry about that." Turning his head back to Kurmou, Hayate offered the dragon a nod of thanks and turned back to face Shiya. Letting out a low grumble, Kuromu knew that he wasn't needed anymore and so he disappeared in another large puff of smoke, leaving Hayate and Shiya alone in the clearing.

"Yes, be sorry." Shiya mumbled, but she grinned never the less. Quickly she brushed most of the dirt of her shirt and sleeves. "Well?" She said, looking expectantly to Hayate who was just standing there doing nothing of use. "Are you going to help me? I can't get my back after all so you will have to do it."

A blush forming on his face, Hayate rocked on his heels for a moment before replying. "Oh... uh... sure... sorry..." Mumbling the last few words, he moved towards her, walking around behind her back. Reaching out, Hayate hesitantly brushed away a little of the dirt that covered her. For the life of him, he wasn't sure why he was so timid around females, it wasn't like they were all going to stab him... well... His thoughts flicking back to Kiyomi, Hayate smiled briefly before looking back to his handiwork. Truth be told he had done a fairly meager job at getting the dirt off. "Uh... you may have to wash these clothes later." He said, taking a step back and scratching the back of his neck again, looking sheepish.

Shiya giggled. This guy was too cute. Never mind that she had just fought with him a minute ago, this was sweet. One minute he had been trying everything to get his hands on her and now he was totally too shy too touch her even in the slightest. "I might," she said as she turned back to him and shrugged with her shoulders. At least some of the dirt came off. "But the more important question is..." She gave Hayate a very serious look. "Do you think they would let me in a restaurant looking like this? 'Cause we do need to have that drink, remember?" She said as she stretched out her hand, hoping that this time Hayate would accept the handshake. "It was a good match afterall."

''I am glad that you could come on such a short notice.'' Meisa said with a friendly smile. Sitting on the chair, she glanced at the garden. There was something at the garden that made her love spending time there. Most certainly when it was around the afternoon when the sun was going slowly down on the horizon. It just created a very interesting scene in the small place that was just behind the Hokage Office.

''It was no problem.'' Zakito replied back with a short nod. ''Right now I am alone at home as Aiko has taken the children too Amegakure. Thought she said that it would do them some good if they would see more of the world.'' Taking a seat at a chair of the small table, that was set in the garden, Zakito briefly thought about his time as the Third Hokage. Even though a lot had changed, it seemed that the garden was the same as ever. A comforting thought that while he wouldn't be able to protect it and try to make sure it would keep its beauty that others would hopefully do so after him. That thought made him feel quite old, much to his own amusement.

''I was just about to ask how she was doing.'' Meisa said. She wasn't very acquainted with Aiko and briefly wondered if that was a bad thing. Zakito had been a mentor, and still was one for her, and she thought that she was close enough to also call him a reliable good friend. ''But I won't try to waste some of your precious time then. If I may?'' Meisa asked making a small gesture with her left hand, waiting on if he wouldn't mind if she would skip the formalities.

Zakito chuckled as he nodded. ''I think that the phrase of saying 'be my guest' would be more appropriate if our roles were reversed, but yes. You may.'' He replied to her, wondering briefly what she would like to talk about. He was half expecting that it would be about the second wall and the newest security measures that they were making.

''Thank you.~'' Meisa said, a bit amused as she bowed her head a bit. Then she became serious as she would start about the subject she wanted to talk with him about. ''I want to invoke a rather drastic change in the Fire Union. Or more directly, into the hierarchy and government form of the Fire Country.'' Meisa started. ''For now we always had a daimyo, but for what purpose? I have been thinking about it, but this 'royal' family line has died several times. There have been several ones, but what have they contributed to the country?'' Meisa asked.

The question was unexpected. Zakito was taken by surprise as he then found himself thinking about the question. ''I honestly can't say that I was much busy with the daimyo or his family. Perhaps a bit with the Hanamoto dynasty, but they didn't last for that long.'' Briefly Zakito thought back about what he had heard from the last Hanamoto, killed by Meisa. Not that he felt any grudge as he trusted that she did what she thought was right. That and he couldn't form an answer to say why the daimyo's were really important. ''The best what I can say is that they are a symbol to which groups of the commoners feel united by. A symbol that keeps most of the Fire Country unified, but I think that was a very long time ago that it was really of great importance.'' Zakito said, shrugging lightly.

''That was the only thing I also thought off. The reason why I asked this was because I want to dispose of the daimyo and their whole dynasty.'' Meisa calmly said. She would take a pause before she would continue and explain it better. ''Right now the daimyo isn't a person that is any person of worth. No daimyo has been really important, save it for the moment when we rallied the troops at Keishi. But we could have done it without the daimyo, truth be told.'' Meisa said with still the same calm tone. Slowly she raised her arm and pointed at the Hokage Mountain. ''There are the true leaders of the Fire country. Those who have led the forces and people to make sure that the country would prosper.''

He became quite silent. Following her pointing to the Hokage Mountain, he knew that her words could be seen as rebellious. The system of Daimyo's was one that had been there for quite some centuries. But he couldn't really argue against her. Not just because she was the real Hokage. Or because he liked her that much that he wouldn't speak up. No, he saw reason and logic in her words, but he was doubting about something. ''And how would you replace the current Daimyo dynasty with the Hokage?'' He asked.

''I was thinking about that. We could easily do it with force. That is the fastest way and quite simple. The Daimyo relies on shinobi that swore a fealty to the Hokage. With a simple order we could take over Keishi and either force the daimyo to step down or else murder him and his family.'' Meisa said as she lowered her arm. ''Another way is to try to mix either Hisoka or Kiyomi into the Daimyo dynasty. A way that would take longer and has a bigger chance of failure. Next to that,'' Meisa paused briefly. Her thoughts went to the image she saw in front of her. Though she didn't see herself as a selfish person, the image made her mad. The thought of Hisoka being married to some 'noblewoman' of the current dynasty? ''I don't think that we should force this upon Hisoka. Neither on Kiyomi. I think that the girl might need some time to recover from some grim lessons and secrets.''

''Agreed.'' Zakito said. He had already noticed a big change in Kiyomi's whole doing and attitude. But not a bad one. While she was young, she already showed that she had learned a lot from how she had been in the early days of her kunoichi career. It was even a bit sad that he didn't see that little troublemaker running around and trying to impersonate the Hokage. Though he missed that little troublemaker, he was happy that Kiyomi was growing up into a fine young woman. However the image of her being introduced into nobility wasn't really what he would expect her to like. ''I think that Kiyomi will certainly not like it for one bit. Considering that she is already 'affiliated' with somebody.''

Meisa smiled as she looked at the pond in the garden. ''Yes. I think that she will not easily accept that. For now she has shown that she is quite the good apprentice. I haven't been able to do anything else than not praise her for her current behavior and actions.'' Meisa said, but then sighed. ''But then it means that we will need to find another way to invoke the change. After all, I think that many a commoner wouldn't mind it if they would have to pay less taxes if there would be a lower percentage going to the 'noble daimyo dynasty'. It is however that I will need your help with it.''

It wasn't that surprising that she wanted his help. Why would she else summon him and talk about it? But while he wasn't sure what would be a right thing to do, he started to believe more that it would be the right course for the country. That and if it would benefit the people, why else would he need to step against it? ''I am all ears.''

''I will need you to adopt Hisoka into the Hon clan.'' Meisa said with a calm voice.

''Beg your pardon?'' Zakito asked as he leaned back. Saying he was surprised would be quite soft to put how he felt after her sentence. True, he saw Hisoka as a very good friend, one of his best even. But to 'adopt' the man into the Hon clan would be quite unexpected. ''Why would that help the change you want to invoke?'' He asked, being a bit too baffled to think of a reason behind it.

''It is very simple. Right now we can say that there are several elite and noble clans in Konohagakure and the Fire country.'' Meisa had to resist to smile when she had seen his face. Or more or less the surprised expression as seeing Zakito's face wasn't really possible with his face mask covering the lower part of it. ''The Hon, Uchiha and Senju are by far the most prominent clans in the Leaf. There are some other clans that could perhaps gain a bit of a help to also claim the same, but for now it is clear that these three clans are the most present in both the Leaf as in the Fire country.'' She explained.

Waiting a second, she raised her hand as a fist in front of her. Raising her thumb, she started to speak again. ''The First Hokage was a Senju. For some reason people still look up to him, probably as he is the founder of the alliance between the Uchiha and Senju. As well as the one who found the foundations of the village.'' Raising her index finger, she continued. ''The Second was an Uchiha that was mentored by the First. Also a very important figure in the Uchiha clan as in the village, marking it that the Uchiha and Senju are one of the Leaf's noble clans.'' Then she raised her middle finger, along with the rest. ''Then we have you, the Third Hokage who comes from the Hon clan. The Hon clan is a clan I count as quite important as they have been able to both offer military support to Konohagakure while also being outside of it. If one would think about it, they had almost the resources to start their own hidden village that could potentially rival Konohagakure during its early days.'' Meisa then raised her ring finger. ''Then there is another Uchiha being seen as the Hokage. And if we look at the current apprentice and successor,'' Meisa raised her pink. ''We have a future Hon as Hokage.''

Zakito started to see what she meant so far with the clans. ''I think that is one way to look at it. Personally, I don't really keep myself too busy to see which of the clans in the country are able to be counted among the noble clans. But I understand why you say that the three are so.'' Personally he felt a bit uncomfortable. Yes, as the clan leader of the Hon he should be feeling great. Being called as one of the noble clans was a good thing. Certainly for a clan that held on to independence for such a long time. ''But you wish that I should adopt Hisoka into the Hon clan and then?'' He already had a hunch.

''Then we will be forming the Hon clan into the ruling dynasty.'' Meisa said, which was quite the plain answer compared to what she else could give as answer. ''It will be easier to claim that the Hon could be the ruling dynasty of the Fire country. They are natives and you are being seen as one of the most respected people around. If we could somehow make the daimyo to step down, which I already have a plan for, then it would be quite easy. And yet not take too much time.'' Meisa said.

Zakito thought about it. As clan leader, Konoha's Jounin commander and what he personally thought about it. As clan leader of the Hon, this was a golden chance. One to gain huge benefits to claim to be the rulers of the Fire country. As Konohagakure's jounin commander, he saw the benefits of that if they would get rid of the daimyo's current dynasty that they could try to get some changes going on that would benefit the commoners. Lower taxes could help most people. Or else they could use the income to do something for them instead of living like some sort of praised pigs in palaces. ''I can see the reasons and logic, but the problem is the Uchiha clan. I have no ill relation or intention towards Shozo Uchiha, but I won't think he will be glad that his son will be adopted in a clan that has almost no connection with the likes of blood with the Uchiha.''

''I thought of such. But the Uchiha clan isn't that big. They are also just focused in Konohagakure. While like the Senju, they are regarded as one of the old and respected clans, they don't have the same resources like the Hon's do. Something we are both aware off. If Shozo Uchiha would be offended, then he wouldn't be able to do much. We could even replace him with a more.... competent Uchiha as leader.'' Meisa said few words on a slower pace as she placed her hands on her lap.

Thinking about it, Zakito was conflicted. Personally he didn't really like the idea. Yes, it would benefit a lot of people if this would all work. But there were some hooks that made it not that comfortable for him to just say yes and go with the suggested plan. Then he decided to ask a question. ''And what if the leader of the Hon clan would somehow act in a way that would be the same as Shozo's?''

The question made Meisa blink twice, rapidly. ''Zakito-sama, I hardly think you would be acting as ambitious or much like Shozo.'' She said, a bit worried. But she understood why he had asked the question. ''But if you ask if I would do the same if it were you? Then yes. Without thinking twice.'' Her tone wasn't cold or harsh, but rather soft. She made no illusions that she was able to compare herself on combat abilities and rank as him. He was more experienced and well trained than her and her mentor. But if he was a threat? Then he shouldn't be spared just for her opinion and feeling.

''I agree to the plan.'' Zakito said after some moments of silence. He was a bit curious how it would unfold, but it looked like it would aid the country and what the reaction would be of Hisoka. Perhaps it would be a better change if the ruling dynasty would be incorporated with the Hokage-ship, but he wasn't so sure if this would go without anybody grumbling about it.

After some time out with Koike, Katsu returned to the hotel, moving towards his own room. Once he'd gotten to the door, the boy stopped and after a moment's hesitation, turned and walked down the corridor. Having walked quite a bit, Katsu recalled the room number of his sensei, approaching the door. He knocked on the door a couple of times. "Sensei?"

Aiko slowly opened her eyes. She had slept for some time and it was pretty nice. Not really able to remember her dreams that she had during her nap, Aiko felt a bit disappointed. She wanted to stay longer asleep. Feeling that both Akimoto and Kei were next to her, Aiko sighed. She had heard somebody saying 'sensei' and had a hunch, that she was needed. Slowly pulling her arms from her children, she managed to sneak out without waking them. Kei was having her thumb in her mouth, while Akimoto had a big smile on his face. Still, she would turn to the door and see who it was.

''Hey, Katsu.'' Aiko said on a hushed tone, smiling as she would take a step out of the room and close the door almost. ''How are you feeling?'' Aiko asked, still keeping her voice hushes as she would then quickly inspect the boy's head. With her right hand going through his hair, to feel for any bruises and with her left to check if his chin wasn't damaged, she frowned. ''No pain, no?''

"I'm doing well," he said in a hushed tone as well, not knowing why. "Most of the pain is pretty faint." It had been hours since his match, which had ended somewhat unsatisfyingly. "I was actually curious about what you thought about the match, sensei," he said, his eyes rolling down.

Pulling her hands from his head, she was looking worried for a moment. As if she was expecting he would suddenly suffer a wound or any nasty after effect of the match he had fought. When he asked her opinion, Aiko thought about it. She had her own opinion and decided it would be better if they would talk a bit about it. ''One second, Katsu.'' Making a clone to watch over Kei and Akimoto, Aiko would close the door of her hotel room. ''Let's take a walk, okay?''

He watched the clone walk in, trying to get a glimpse of the room itself, before turning to Aiko and nodding. Walking down the hall, Aiko thought about his question. But she wanted to sit somewhere and discuss properly about the match. ''How do you like Amegakure?'' She asked, turning right at the corner of the hall as she was walking towards the exit of the hotel.

Following her, the boy thought for a moment. "It's... Pleasant, I suppose," he said. "I didn't really look around too much." He looked back for a brief moment. "Do you know the village well, sensei?" he asked, turning his attention to her once more. He figured that an experienced shinobi like Aiko would've seen most of the major ninja villages even outside of the Fire Union.

''Not really. I have been in the countryside twice or so. Never really been into the Rain as we are now.'' Aiko thought back. She felt a bit ashamed that she couldn't try to inform and talk about the city. It was indeed pleasant, though Aiko missed the more pleasant and comforting weather in Konohagakure. The abudant of water pouring down from the sky was growing to irritate her a bit. Exiting the building, Aiko felt stupid as she had forgot an umbrella. ''Shall we go and eat somewhere? Unless you have already lunched. Perhaps then we can try to look for a nice place to drink something?''

"Er... Sensei, I don't have enough money for a meal," he uttered, remembering how the money he had was spent. He didn't seem to mind the rain pouring down heavily, and on the contrary, seemed like he was enjoying the weather. It felt good to have a change of scenery once in a while.

''And?'' Aiko asked, looking sideways at Katsu with a growing smile. ''I can treat us on some lunch or drink. No need to worry about that, Katsu.'' Aiko told him as she was already looking for a suitable place. But not being familiar with Amegakure, Aiko was a bit doubting what a good place would be. If she had only met Eiji and asked him about it. She had yet to find or meet with her friend, who would likely be able to give her some name or location of a place where she could enjoy a good meal. ''Shall we go to that place?'' Aiko asked, pointing briefly at a small restaurant. It looked nice in her opinion. A bit small and cozy, was the idea she had if she had to judge from the outside.

The boy looked over to the place she'd gestured to. He studied it for a moment and turned back to his sensei, giving her a smile and nodding. "Looks like a great place to eat," he said. It looked rather comfortable and calm.

''Come then.'' Aiko beckoned him to follow as she started to head to the restaurant. Entering the place, she ordered a table for two and soon they were sitting. A waiter came to take an order from what they wished to drink and once the man walked away, Aiko sighed. She leaned a bit back and laid an arm over the back of her chair as she looked with a frown. It wasn't easy to put her opinion of Katsu's match in just a simple sentence. But he was likely either worried or curious, perhaps both, to learn what she thought of it. Feeling that she was getting tired, Aiko raised her left hand and rubbed her eyes for a moment. ''I will be very honest. You did it well, but you made me concerned several times.'' Lowering her hand she looked more worried than stern. ''I noticed some good, but yet daring moves and I am not completely sure if I should applaud or lecture you. For now I think that bruises speak for themselves.''

Katsu did as she said, walking right behind her. Once the raindrops stopped falling on his head, the boy stopped for a moment, turning around as if to see if anyone was there. Seeing no one familiar, to some strange surprise, Katsu walked in and sat across her. A frown and a grin appeared, repeating the cycle at least once before he looked at his teacher with a continuous and friendly smile. "I didn't think I'd get through it without getting any wounds..."

''Rarely are there battles where one of the two will not get any wounds. What I am saying is that I saw some..'' Aiko thought about it. She didn't want to offend Katsu or make him think that she wasn't proud of him. He had tried and she was very proud that he had put up a fight. However she knew her duties and being soft all the time wouldn't solve anything. ''Mistakes. At some points you showed that you were able to drive your opponent back, but I think we will need to work further on some fields.'' Another pauze followed as Aiko briefly looked to the right, just needing to stare and think about something. ''So my thoughts are that your match wasn't that good.'' She felt a little sting after the words left her mouth, wanting to say that she was still proud of him. But she couldn't say that. Not now.

He seemed somewhat disappointed but he still had a sympathetic smile on his face, if not a pitiful one. He lowered his head a bit, rolling his eyes up to still look towards Aiko. "I see... I know I kinda screwed up a good chance I was able to get after I poisoned him, which was disappointing, but..." Sighing, he raised his head once more. "I'm glad my assessment was similar to yours, sensei."

The bad feeling grew as she felt that she had disappointed him. Perhaps if she had invested more time, more effort in teaching as preparing him then he would have made it to the next round. Perhaps then she wouldn't need to say these kind of things and that they could just celebrate how the first rounds had went. ''Then we need to see how Koike will do. Which means you're free and on your own while we will be here.'' Aiko told him, hoping that would cheer him a bit up. ''Perhaps I can see a chance to train with you while we are here, but I still want to watch two matches.''

"I actually want to watch the other matches too, sensei," he said. "I'm sure Koike will keep progressing through the exam so I kinda want to see what kinds of techniques the other genin have. Maybe I could see something to help Koike in the round after."

A smile crossed Aiko's lips as she slowly nodded. ''I think he will like that.'' It was still even now fun to see how the two were friends. Or perhaps she saw more than there actually was? Still, the thought of that the two were getting along that good was nice. ''And I think that could be helpful. There is no rule that you're not allowed to watch and learn from watching a match. After all, I am sure that others are doing that to then pass information about potential foes and opponents to their team members.''

The boy nodded. "Do you have other students in the exam other than Koike right now, sensei?" he asked after a pause, remembering her remark about a couple of matches that she wanted to watch. Crossing her legs as well as her arms, Aiko smiled again. ''I indeed have. There are several genins that have wanted me to watch their matches. Right now, other than Koike there is Shikaroku Nara. Quite the clever boy, but I suspect it has something to do with that many Nara's are clever. Or perhaps the credit goes to Hiron, who knows?'' She paused as she thought about it. ''I also had watched the match of Kuni Sadako. She had been a student of some kind for some time. And other than you and Koike, that was about it. Unless I miss somebody.'' Aiko looked a bit worried as she lifted her head up, staring at the ceiling. ''That would be very disappointing. Let's hope I haven't done that.''

Katsu leaned back in his seat, smiling. He took a glance out the window and quickly retracted his gaze. "You're quite popular, hm, sensei?" he asked bravely with a non-chalant manner, his childish grin wide as ever. He leaned forward on the table, leaning his head on his crossed arms.

His words made her blink three times in a row and then she laughed shortly. ''I guess so. Though I hope I won't become any more popular than I am now. Might be sounding a bit silly, but I prefer to be not known all over the country or being really popular.'' She also glanced out the window and continued. ''I like some ease and peace now and then.'' The words were almost whispered out of her, but she knew that they were a bit naive. For the coming months, if not years, she wouldn't likely have that much rest while there were a lot of things to be done.

''Took you long.'' Hiron said with a more or less a neutral tone. One that would even make one that knew him for quite some time wonder if he was disappointed, mad or content. Sitting on a chair, the man was reading a small book. Throwing a glance sideways, at one of his students that was laying on a bed, Hiron returned his attention back to the small book. ''Was wondering how long it would take before you would be awake again. You worried the medics quite, you know? Having no visible injuries and yet kind of collapsing.'' Turning a page, Hiron almost barely nodded. ''Very... bothersome.''

Reaching up with one hand, Shikaroku pinched the bridge of his nose, trying to remember what had happened. Pushing himself up into a sitting position, Shikaroku leaned forwards. He could still feel a dull throbbing in his temples, and tried to massage them briefly to lessen the sensation. Hiron's words made their way through to him and suddenly everything came crashing back. His eyes widened and he leaned over his knees, dry heaving. As the panic attack subsided, Shikaroku managed to bring his breathing back under control. "My opponent... sensei... did he...?" Unable to finish his sentence, Shikaroku turned his head towards Hiron, his eyes pleading.

Hiron seemed to keep reading his book, but after a moment or two, he replied with a calm tone back to Shikaroku. ''As dead as a doornail.'' After the phrase, Hiron turned another page as it didn't bother him in the slightest. ''Another reason why I am here and not a shadow clone. Though incidents like this can happen, you wouldn't believe what kind of consquences it can bring. Perhaps some team member would like to claim your life?'' Hiron briefly looked at the door, frowning as he continued to think out loud. ''Or perhaps an angry parent that wants to avenge their fallen child? Very problematic, very bothersome.'' Hiron mumbled the last few words as he lowered his head and continued to read the small book.

Everything went numb as soon as Hiron confirmed that the other boy was dead. The world around him seemed to dim, and it felt as if he was listening to Hiron from under water. Slowly, Shikaroku began rocking back and forth. Clutching his head in his hands, the boy was lost. "Why... why didn't they stop it..." The question wasn't really meant for anyone in particular, and Shikaroku wasn't even aware that he had spoken out loud.

The question made Hiron sigh as he then shook his head, closing his eyes as if the question was a dumb one. ''Why not?'' Hiron asked back before he would close the book with his right hand and frowned at Shikaroku. ''You're not going to tell me you didn't see it, right? I even saw it and I don't have any pesky irritating dojutsu that makes me see every small insect that decides to crawl over a piece of dirt. The boy was already dead when he entered the field. Everybody who has trained genin for years and pay attention to how one walks and acts could easily figure this one out.'' Hiron paused. He knew that Shikaroku wouldn't like to be treaten like this. He wanted to hear probably something comforting. Something to ease the pain and probably the guilt of knowing that he would be seen as the one who delivered the killing blow. Yes, it was sad that he had to experience it as Hiron hadn't prepared him for it. He had half expected Shikaroku to actually fail his match. No, he had hoped for it. That it would be a good motivator for him to try to train even harder. Yet, that it would go like this? He hadn't expected anything like this.

''The referee is supposed to step in when they are needed. Truth be told, I think that everybody was a bit surprised that you managed to end the match that soon and intercepting the attack would be... unfair. In a real fight there is no referee who will seperate you from your enemy. It is either kill or be killed in most situations.'' Hiron explained as he glanced at the door again.

"This wasn't supposed to be like that!" Shikroku suddenly shouted. Surprising himself as he turned towards Hiron with a hardened gaze. "You told me this was supposed to be safe! That nobody was supposed to... to end up like this!" His head throbbing again, Shikaroku pressed both hands against his head, turning away. Bringing himself back down to a more controlled level, he spoke quietly. "Why would he come out to fight like that... if he... if he wanted to die?" Shaking his head again, Shikaroku was fighting to retain control.

''Who knows?'' Hiron calmly responded. His right hand trembled but he didn't slam the book in Shikaroku's face when the latter had shouted. He simply sighed and looked sideways at his student. ''And yes, I had told you that. But you should always know that there are risks. Factors that can spell trouble. I would have jumped in and try to fend off if you were in the boy's situation.'' Hiron's tone became somewhat stern. ''And though I have asked myself why that poor sod was allowed to fight, sobbing won't help. I can understand that this won't feel like a victory, but you better get used to it, Shikaroku.'' Hiron looked at the small book. The rather ominous title of ''A grim death'' was a novel that was about a shinobi that had tried to become great, but eventually died. He had died because he wasn't able to accept several things, which lead to his downfall eventually. Flipping the book, Hiron placed it on the bed, near Shikaroku. ''Right now, troubling yourself and beating yourself up won't do you any good. You have won, fair and square. Get that in your head. Cause while it won't feel like a sweet victory, it won't be anything else out in the field.'' Hiron paused as he thought about his word choice. He didn't want to push Shikaroku too much. And some things could be a bit too early, but would there be any time better than now?

''The time of when you will need to kill others to protect your comrades and country will be there soon. And while I can try to prepare you for it, lets be honest. There are only a few who can kill without remorse. And like me, you can't kill without question yourself if you should be feeling proud or guilty for ending a life.'' Hiron kept his gaze on the Nara, a rather stern one before he leaned a bit back. ''So, congratulations on your first kill.'' Hiron said with a grim tone.

Looking down at the sheets on his bed, Shikaroku wanted to be sick. This whole situation was not what he had expected. Somewhere, in the back of his mind, he knew Hiron was right. That didn't mean he had to like it though. Shaking his head slowly, he couldn't look at his sensei... not right now. "I... I am sorry Hiron. I've let you down yet again..." The words felt hollow, and Shikaroku wasn't even sure if he meant them, or if he was just trying to pacify both Hiron and himself. "What am I supposed to do now...?" He asked quietly. "How am I supposed to go back out there and face everyone. They treat me like a killer... like... like I wanted this..."

He didn't know if Hiron had the answers, truth be told, they weren't really fair questions, and Shikaroku knew that. But in that moment he didn't care.

Sighing out loud again, Hiron crossed his arms as he glanced at the ceiling. Genin and their endless supply of questions. But he wouldn't start to grumble about that right now. Not only had Shikaroku won his match and thus earned himself some peace from Hiron's grumbling, but he also had experienced something that wasn't easy to accept. ''You didn't really let me down, kid.'' Hiron said, thinking about something. It was hard to just be straight and honest with the boy as well trying to not be too blunt with him now. That could backfire and cause the boy to complain, shout, growing angry or worse. Cry. ''In fact, I was hoping you would suffer a defeat. It would have been a quite valuable lesson, though I can't deny that this one can serve quite a purpose as well.''

Then he shrugged, like he was simply dismissing the fact that he had told Shikaroku a moment ago that this could be taken as a lesson. That the death wasn't that serious or much of a problem. But truth be told, Hiron saw no value in the life or death of Shikaroku's opponent. ''As for the people let them talk. It were mostly those who just saw what they wanted to see. I bet that there are people out there who don't think you tried to kill your opponent on purpose. Every capable sensei with a pair of working eyes have seen that you just did your best and that your opponent wasn't near being ready for the exams. Or in any state to fight.''

Leaning back, Shikaroku let himself fall back against the pillows. Staring up towards the ceiling, he sighed. The logical part of his brain had started to take over, more as a defense mechanism than anything really, but it still bothered him that he was now thinking of things in more of a detached way, without emotion. Hiron was right, and Shikaroku could not deny that. Much as he may have wanted to.

For now, he would restrain his emotions. A proper shinobi did not show them, as they could be a weakness. Taking a moment to gather himself, Shikaroku sat up again and turned to Hiron, any sign of his prior feelings vanished. Save for the slightest hint of darkness in his eyes. "How did Masami-san's match go? Did she do well?"

Glad to see that Shikaroku seemed a bit calmer, Hiron was briefly wondering what went through the mind of the boy. In his own opinion, he could understand if the boy wouldn't accept the words and that was just fine. Perhaps it was a bit too early and it wasn't like Hiron thought that Shikaroku was running short on time. But this was one of those fundamental lessons. If he would start to become somebody who would swear to never kill again, then Hiron would lose his respect for the boy. And probably drop him as a student. Such weak attitude wouldn't be accepted in his team. ''She is fine.'' Hiron looked at the door again, but he didn't seem nervous. He frowned. ''Her match went a bit more exciting, because her opponent was quite tenacious. But nothing less expected from one that hails from the Inuzuka clan. They are quite known for their fierce shinobi.'' Hiron then looked back at Shikaroku. ''But she won as well.''

Nodding his head, Shikaroku looked away. "Good." It was all he said for a long moment. Turning back to look at the book Hiron had left on the bed, he almost laughed at the irony of the title. Locking eyes with his sensei once again, Shikaroku spoke. "Does this mean that we are both participants in the second round then?" His tone remained entirely neutral, no trace of emotion left.

''Unless you get your throat sliced before the rounds start, yes.'' Hiron calmly replied to Shikaroku. He cocked his head a bit to the right as his eyes then moved to the door. ''Cause I wasn't joking. I suspect that I might be a bit too cautious at the moment, but I rather stay and prevent somebody from getting any funny ideas. Not that I think the Raikage would allow any of his subjects try to maim at you or as much touch you. That would cause a lot of political problems and then result in all kind of chaotic events. Quite problematic, you see.'' Hiron slowly grinned. ''Though now you're in the rounds with the real veterans, I suppose.''

"Heh." Shikaroku laughed humourously. "Then I suppose I had better bring everything that I've got." He glanced quickly to the hospital gown he was wearing, a look of distaste upon his face. "When can I leave here?" The question made Hiron shrug. ''You haven't suffered any injuries. I however thought this would be more comfortable than a hotel or such. The more people around the less I need to worry that somebody will try to muster some gut and then try to beat you up or worse.'' Hiron answered. He thought about it and then sighed as he brought up his right hand to his neck. Though he wouldn't admit it, he felt a bit odd. Without a bandanna, his short dark brown hair was ruffled a bit as Hiron scratched his neck and moved his hand up to the back of his head.

''But for now take it a bit easy. This might be a better place to stay for the moment than many other places, I imagine.'' Leaning back as far as he could, Hiron placed both his hands at the back of his head, trying to make it himself comfortable.

Once again, Shikaroku found it difficult to argue with Hiron's logic. "Can I at least get changed back into my regular clothes?" He asked, after a long pause. A chuckle was heard and soon followed up by Hiron answering the question. ''I wouldn't mind it. Just take care to not try to throw a kunai at me, okay?'' Hiron closed his eyes as he leaned back with the chair, leaning against the wall.

Getting up from the bed, Shikaroku felt a sharp pain at Hiron's jest. Ignoring it, he moved over to where his clothes had been simply thrown haphazardly onto a chair. Wondering for a brief moment who had changed him, Shikaroku threw one worried glance towards his sensei, shuddering at the thought. Withdrawing his clothes from the chair, Shikaroku quickly dressed before turning back to face the jounin. "So what now?"

''We wait.'' Hiron said, his eyes still closed as he didn't move. ''For now I suspect that you will have a bad name. Not a really infamous one as it is just a kill. A nobody, I suspose. Won't get you any infamy for killing another genin. Would be different if you would end up killing each opponent however. Now that would be quite interesting.'' Hiron calmly stated. Pausing, he opened his left eye half. ''For now, rest out a bit more. You will need every moment to get your calm and cool back. I predict the next round will take a hell lot more than what I have been preparing you for.''

Slowly, he nodded. Walking back over to the bed, Shikaroku sat down, leaning against the wall. Letting out a quiet sigh, he rubbed his temples. Hiding like this... it didn't feel right, but he couldn't do much to change that. Sitting up straight, Shikaroku steepled his fingers and rested his chin on them. All he could do for the meantime was sit and prepare. Unless...

Lifting his gaze to meet Hiron's, Shikaroku's eyes had a strange glint to them. "I don't suppose you'd fancy a game of Shogi while we wait?"

''I don't see any harm in that.'' Hiron responded. Still having the chair leaning against the wall, he made the sign to produce a shadow clone, who would exit the room. Closing the door behind, Hiron's shadow clone would try to find a place where it would be able to fetch them the board game. ''By the way, that tactic of yours was quite nice. I would recommend to use another one in the coming fight, to be sure that your opponent will be less prepared though.'' Hiron said as he closed his eyes again, his hands moving to the back of his head.

Relieved that they would have something to do to pass the time, Shikaroku leaned back again, considering Hiron's words. "Thank you sensei." He said after a short time. "To tell you the truth, I hadn't used that technique expecting it to work. I had a more extensive plan but..." His thoughts travelling back to the match, Shikaroku couldn't continue. Every detail had been brutally, and cruelly, etched into his mind as if to punish him. The memory was going to haunt him for a long time, but Hiron was right, and right now Shikaroku had to somehow put it aside... at least for the time being.

"Do you think I could end up fighting Masami-san?" He asked quietly, a hint of concern in his voice.

''The chance on that is quite big.'' Hiron told back as he thought about it. He could keep information he had heard and learned for himself, in order to not demotivate Shikaroku. In order to make sure that Shikaroku wouldn't be already more nervous than he could be right now. Then again. ''Right now most of the genin who passed to the next round are quite some fighters. Masami isn't going to be your only concern. I can tell you several names of people who have passed and what I have been able to learn about them. Or what I know already of them.'' Hiron said, deciding to lay the decision in Shikaroku's hands.

Thinking for a long moment, Shikaroku realized what Hiron was really asking. He wasn't sure he was ready to hear just how skilled his opponents were going to be, but... he was going to need every advantage he could possibly get if he was to have even the slightest chance.

A sudden thought occurred to him and he tilted his head as he looked up at his sensei. "Would... would it be considered cheating if I went into the fight with information about my potential opponents?" The question made Hiron open his eyes and glance at Shikaroku with a frown. ''A shinobi is bound to follow the rules, that is a common thing. If a shinobi doesn't follow the rules and honor them, he is nothing but scum.'' The tone was a bit harsh, but then Hiron grinned slowly. ''But remember that the best shinobi fight like they are scum. And if nobody catches you on breaking a rule or two, who would be able to call you scum? A shinobi fights diry, kid. There is no way of cheating if nobody catches you on it.''

Grinning at Hiron's words, despite how grim he still felt, Shikaroku made his decision. "Well then, Hiron-sensei... What do I need to know?" Slowly pushing off the wall, Hiron made the chair he sat on stand on all his four legs. Leaning a bit forward, Hiron glanced at the door as he was thinking about the information he had learned. It was in some cases quite easily. People talked about a match for some time, after one had ended. From such talk one could simply see what information could be useful and what not. Besides, it wasn't like he had spent all his time sitting next to Shikaroku while he was being inspected for any injury.

''You know about Masami and I think that I need to say little about her.'' Hiron started, thinking about another name. ''I have heard some talk when I walked around about that a girl from Kumogakure won her match. Using two swords and lightning release. Couldn't gather anything special about her, other than that she had defeated what some said that her opponent was a troublemaker. Reyna was her name, but I couldn't catch her surname.'' Deciding to move to the next, he thought about another match. ''There was also a draw. Which is quite interesting as those don't often happen at exams. Means you either fight a kind that uses some tricky water release. Also the son of an infamous bastard. His surname was Deshuga. Didn't really find it interesting to learn his first. His opponent was Katsu Uchiha. A new genin that is under the wing of Aiko. Probably just allowed to participate for the same reason as you, but who knows? If he is a student of Aiko's, then there is a big chance he has learned a thing or two about poison. Quite nasty, poison.''

Hiron sighed as he kept thinking about other matches. He told about some matches. Most of the genins he had heard about were just average. But that was likely cause they didn't had anything interesting he knew about. That and it wasn't of his concern to really learn everything about them. ''Then there was this match between Koike Hon and Ezuri Hyuuga. Went quite fast as it seems that Aiko taught Koike some nasty poison. I suspect that my nephew has some more tricks up his sleeve and he always had a knack for close ranged combat. Then as final, there is Hayate Hyuzu. A kid I know and quite experienced.'' Hiron thought about it. He had heard that Hayate had managed to win his match, but he wasn't that surprised. ''He hails from a clan that has some bloodline ability to mould and use metal sources, able to do techniques with them. That and he can use Earth Release. Combine that with being quite experienced, I say he and some others are opponents I would watch out for. Or..'' Hiron chuckled. ''Try to learn more about them. There will be some time that we can try to indulge in ''learning'' about your potential future opponent.''

Listening very closely as Hiron spoke, Shikaroku began sizing up the list of opponents in his mind, trying to formulate ways to take them down. He would not allow himself to be shaken or intimidated by the fact that almost everyone else remaining in the exams was far more experienced than he was. From the sound of it, the entrants from Konoha were making a strong showing so far, and Shikaroku didn't want to let his village down. If he was to gave a chance at getting through this round, he was going to have to learn as much as he could about the other participants. Thankfully, the files for the Konoha genin shouldn't be too hard to get a hold of, but in order to get information on any of the participants from the other villages... Shikaroku wasn't sure how he was going to accomplish that. Yet...

''Heh. That is what I want to see.'' Hiron said as he chuckled. ''Seems like you're thinking. But.'' Suddenly Hiron pushed himself and the chair off the wall as he let out a sigh. ''I guess we should get moving.'' He sounded a bit more serious as he raised himself up from his seat. Shoving his hands into the pockets of his pants, Hiron sighed again. As if the movement was already so tiresome. ''Our game of shogi must wait. My shadow clone managed to attend to the announcement of today. Seems you're fighting against... Masami.'' Hiron informed Shikaroku, wondering what his students thoughts were. It was a bit odd as fun to see his students fighting against each other. He had half an idea on how it would end or go, but both had shown that they were full of surprises. Just what he would like to see.

Crap. Was the first thought that went through Shikaroku's mind, as Hiron made the announcement. Masami was a highly skilled shinobi, and Shikaroku had been secretly hoping that he wouldn't have to face her. It wasn't that he was intimidated, but he had every right to be. Shikaroku was not looking forward to fighting a teammate. He was worried that he wouldn't put everything he had into the fight, not wanting to injure someone he had trained with and bonded with. Shaking his head, Shikaroku realized how immature he was being. A shinobi had to look past these things, and if he was to become a proper one, then he would have to look past them too. Trying to bring his thoughts back under control, Shikaroku looked up at his sensei. "I... am ready Hiron-sensei."

''Good. As am I.'' Hiron said, a bit grinning as he gestured that Shikaroku should follow him. Walking towards the door, Hiron briefly let out a laugh. ''There is one good thing to this match up. This time you can bet your ass that somebody will jump in if things get too hot.'' Hiron told Shikaroku. He thought of Masami and decided that he would give her a little kind of pep talk later as well. Would be very unfair if he would just give Shikaroku some comforting words, wouldn't it? Making another shadow clone, Hiron felt a bit weird. Though he hadn't waste that much shadow clone as they weren't destroyed and he hadn't been using any kind of other technique these past days, he wasn't that comfortable of making that many a clones in such a short time period.

Letting out a half smile as Hiron made his comment, a sudden realization struck Shikaroku... "Hiron-sensei... if they just released the next matches... how long have I been out of it?" While they would walk down the hall, Hiron turned his gaze sideways towards his student. ''That is a good question. Drugs, Shikaroku. Drugs.'' Hiron said as he then proceeded to whistle while they would continue to walk.

A Collab between FoxSVK and Mr Nim

One week ago

Ryoku hated to tell people facts that might change their view on life. He always blamed himself for the news he was telling and held himself responsible for them, even if it was not his fault. But this time was different. He felt a slight tremble in his legs as he was getting up from his chair. His hands were shaking as he placed them on his table to support himself. His throat felt narrow, as if the passage for air was obstructed by something. Ryoku knew very well that that "something" was. It was fear. He took the few steps and opened the door on his office, only to see Kuni already standing there. He wanted to speak but ... the words were unable to come out. Instead, he just stared at her awkwardly for a few seconds. Only then did he step aside and by a gesture of his hand, he invited her in his office.

Standing next to the entrance of the Amekage's office, Kuni waited while whistling a weak tune. She didn't want to disturb anyone with her whistling, and because she had been told to wait there, she didn't want herself to become bored while waiting there either. So after thinking a bit, she chose to whistle to pass her time, which was a good choice. She barely noticed Ryoku opening the door to her office and looking at her for a few seconds. Once she noticed, she sent him a friendly wave with a smile before seeing him move aside, indicating she needs to get inside his office. She walked into the office and then turned to look at him before taking a bow "Amekage." She said and rose from her relatively short bow before moving to take a seat in one of the chairs in front of the desk, waiting to hear what he wanted to talk about.

Ryoku was shocked by the bow. He was not used to peopel doing such things for him - despite being the Amekage, he considered himself just an ordinary man, equal to all the members of his village. So as she took a seat, Ryoku walked up to her and placed his hand on her shoulder."Yoshikuni ... thank you for finding some time for me. As you already know, I summoned you here because I wanted to have a discussion with you. I would like to ask some things, explain many things and ... ask a favor from you. Now, if you don´t mind ..." Instead of sitting down on his chair behind his desk, he took another chair and placed it next to Kuni, then proceeded to sat down on it." ... I will sit here for now. Can you tell me how are you doing, Yoshikuni? How are you feeling?"

Listening to Ryoku, Kuni became annoyed that he called her by her full name. Obviously he needed to be formal, but she hoped that would change "Its Kuni. Only person who called me Yoshikuni is my mom." She said before properly turning to face him with her chair "Well, I'm doing fine, I guess. my birthday is coming up in a week and it seems like its gonna be a fun one too. If you mean by how I am handling being the Jinch of the Yonbi, its alright. Nothing too much. Or at least, it was fine until that Meisa lady came. Since I met her something been off." She said, trying to see if she could recall any specific details about that meeting. But she couldn't remember too much, and her head ached a bit in the back while trying to remember.

Ryoku was surprised by how quickly she moved to the topic of being the Jinchuuriki of a tailed beast. With a sight, he looked at her, deep in her eyes." That is exactly what I wanted to talk about, Kuni. About Lady Meisa and her visit to you." He was not sure how to continue - should he go and explain politics to a little girl? There was no meaning in it - he personally hated political machinations and this was one of them. No, he will have to find another approach." And thus, we are getting to the part where I wanted to do the explaining. Yes, Lady Meisa visited you for a reason I will try to explain to you. But there is one thing you have to know ... it was me who allowed her visit." Ryoku decided to be quiet and wait for the reaction of Kuni before trying to continue.

Keeping her eyes on Ryoku, she kept hearing what he said. So the topic he wished to discuss was about that Meisa lady and what she did. Kuni nodded at first and then resumed paying attention to what the Amekage was saying. When he said he was the one who allowed her to visit, she didn't quite get what he meant at first. Wasn't it obvious that anyone from the outside of the village needed to go through him? At least, thats what she thought. Thinking about it a bit more, she started to slowly understand what he actually meant. Her sight moved from him to her legs and the expression on her face changed into a more neutral one "What do you mean by allowed her visit? And I mean completely." She said in a weak voice, drastically different from her regular voice.

Ryoku sighed and look away from Kuni. How would he tell her? Will she understand? Will she hate him? Probably. It was a probability, but Ryoku decided that knowing the truth was above everything else in a situation like this." I allowed her visit to you. As you are aware, our village recently joined the Fire Union ... I did that step in hopes of helping our village to forget its painful past and move ahead towards a birghter future. But since we are now a part of a larger organization and we are not in a leading role, we have to obey ... higher authorities ... " He said the word with a certain tone of dislike in it, but continued a short while later.

" Lady Meisa was afraid that I might use you as a special weapon to improve our standing in the Fire Union ... I am not sure where you get it. It is up to you if you will trust me, Kuni. I never intended to use you in such a disgusting way ..." Another deep breath, and he looked back at Kuni, visibly saddened." My dream is one of peace and prosperity for our village, not world domination. The visit Lady Meisa honored you with was to modify your seal so that you will not be usable as a weapon. My reasoning for clearing his visit is ... is that I wanted to protect you ... "

"Protect me? Whoever said I need protecting, I wonder. Was it her? To protect me from the beast I was just starting to get to know?" Kuni said in the same weak voice as before, but this time something was added to it. Just a tiny bit of disbelief. Standing up, she went and approached one of the bookshelves and leaned herself on it "Tell me, Ryoku, why do you wish to protect me from something that you cannot do anything about it? And just because they are higher authorities, does that mean I am just a weapon? Because the hell if I am. I might have caused a lot of mess in Ame from time to time, but it was never something that couldn't be fixed and it was never aimed against any other village. And when I was in Konohagakure, while the soldiers of Shoji were around, I knew how to keep it down very well." She said and raised her sight from the ground to look at him, and her eyes appeared to be cold.

"You and Meisa basically decided that I am an uncontrollable kid who cannot think for herself and must be tamed in another way. A way that ensured that I will be incapable of using anything I might've gained from the beast you sealed into me. I never intended to gain anything but a new friend, but it seems that you two decided that what I wanted is pointless to look at." Kuni said and then placed her right hand behind the back of the shelf "If you really think I'm uncontrollable, then you are wrong. I am fully aware of any action I do and the results that come after them." She said and then pushed the shelf with her right hand with all of her strength, taking a bit but making it fall against the floor and then looking at it "I can already assume that with the fact there is no one here but me and you that you prepared for facing such a thing, for example." She said before moving to stand behind her chair and to look at it with the cold eyes.

Letting out a fake sounding laugh, she shook her head a bit "You can assume how I'll react all you want, but I won't let you have the benefit of the doubt. I won't react how you think I will. In fact, I will present a simple fact towards you, Ryoku. Whatever Meisa did to my seal might cause me to eventually need to stop being a shinobi. Because since she had messed with the seal, if I try and use chakra for a period of time, then I find myself become dizzy and my vision becomes blurry." She said and then turned to look at him with the cold eyes again "So tell me, oh great and wise and protective Amekage, did you not ask what Meisa's adjustment might do to me? Did you not ask what the end result could be? Because if you claim to be so protective, then I cannot see it. A person like you, who does not look through into things that will affect his people, should not be a leader of a village." She said and then shook her head in disapproval. If Kuni had any respect towards Ryoku before, then it was clear that she had lost it.

All Ryoku managed to do during Kuni´s speech was to stand up and look at her for the entire time. All she was telling him was right from a certain point of view." I wish to protect you from the beast that almost destroyed our village. You were out there ... based on our current experience on how to provide all the ... necessities for a Jinchuuriki, there were certain risks I was not aware of. I am admitting ... my lack of expertise on seals in general and Tailed Beasts caused all of this. I am really glad that you wanted a new friend and even more glad if you could succeed ... but ... " He stopped mid-sentence while still looking at her.

" Try to understand my position, as I did my best to understand yours. I was out there, protecting my village from a threat. I am not sure about how the beast is now, but back then, he was a threat. I reacted accordingly. Seals are not always perfect, Kuni. If your seal would weaken or get distrupted by any influece you are not able to handle, the results could be catastrophic. The village could lose one of its family members ... you, Kuni. The village might cease to exist all together if we would not be able to stop the beast again."

" It was a selfish decision, and I will understand if you will never able to forgive me. However ... I promised Eiji a solution for this problem, and I am always doing my best to keep my promises. I promised him an audience with Lady Meisa, where we will discuss the real changes done to your seal and demand changes that will allow you to function as a Kunoichi once again." Ryoku did not care about his shelf being thrown from its place. Kuni´s reaction was completely justified." Yes ... I admit. I am not great ... and neither wise, nor all-knowing ... and I have made several mistakes when trying to protect things I hold dear. You are a member of my family, Kuni ... I do care for you as I care for all the members of the village. I guess trying to protect you this way was ... a terrible mistake."

Hearing what Ryoku told her made Kuni push the chair in front of her against his office desk and then approach him "I always try and understand others. I always try to listen and hear the letters in the words, to be capable of completely understand what others truly mean. And while I hear you showing that you truly wish to protect your village, I also heard something I could not believe. Instead of believing in your sealing team's capablities, you approached someone from the outside because you lack 'expertise and asked her to make things better instead of merely asking for advice. Instead of putting more watch over me and letting me have a chance, you let someone take any kind of chance of bonding with Son Goku. Tell me, is a Kage supposed to show his lack of faith in his own people's capabilities?" She asked and then reached up and grabbed his collar.

"Asking Meisa to change the seal will most likely be pointless. From the way I heard the woman talk, she will manipulate things to always make them go her way. So asking her to change that will be futile. She tricked me into thinking that she was nice and gentle, only to have someone knock me unconcious before messing with my seal. And if you really thought about protecting the village from the beast, you could've came up with lots of different ways, such as putting me in a distant place from the village until you can unsure its safe to have me in the village. Even though I wouldn't like it one bit, I would understand that. But having my seal be adjusted and still having me in the village? Who ever said Meisa's adjustments make the seal perfect? What if the beast still escapes?" She said before letting go of his collar and then turning her back on him "I keep hearing the truthful tone of how you want to protect everyone, but the amount of mistakes you make is incredible in my eyes. She said, and now a bit of sadness was heard in her voice along with the coldness.

" I never judged you, Kuni. I understand why are you judging me right now. Let me tell you several things ... " Ryoku took a while to collect his thoughts before continuing." I understand you and Son Goku ... as he is appearantly called, are getting along. I never wanted to limit you. Imagine how would it look - to send you award from the village to a solitary, secluded place. Alone. Wouldn´t that be the same as imprisoning you for the same duration? In my eyes, it would be the same. Something I would never do. I thought that keeping you in the villages, with your friends, with Eiji as your Sensei will help you more than being isolated from everybody. That they would be there for you should you need them, where Eiji is here for you ... and even I, but now it is clear that I am not the one you would turn to for help."

" Leave negotiatons with Lady Meisa to me. And let me tell you something ... Kuni. I was not the one who asked Meisa to adjust your seal. Neither did I contact them to provide ... assistance with Son Goku. Lady Meisa was so generous to pay me a visit ... for her, it was not about your life. It was about keeping Ame in the line. I was not given a chance ... she made it clear for me. Our nation has no chance in standing against the Fire Nation ... so I decided to submit, instead of being annihilated. I trust the people of my village more than those of other villages. I never considered not giving you a chance ... if Lady Hoshi selected you, then it was clear that you, in some way, exceeded your peers. Now, you exceed them even more ... you are a hero of this village. Something I will never be. Now ... can you understand it a bit, Kuni?"

Lowering her sight to the floor as he spoke, she carefully listened to each word. After he finished speaking, she turned around to look at him. The cold look was gone, but there was no strong facial expression on her face either "What I understood now is that you were pushed to the corner and did all you could to protect the people you care for. And I'm not a hero, just like you are not. I'm just a teenage girl who wants to explore and make friends from all around. Both things were taken from me. And now I know that its not your doing, but its done under orders from the Fire Union. So you should work on finding a way of making the Fire Union's grip on Ame be lessened. Perhaps make them realise that while they are strong, they cannot control what information passes between the villages under their so called 'protection'? At least, I know its impossible. Its just like how I keep being told by a merchant in the village that everything in Konohagakure is fine." She said with a small spark in her eyes. She realised that while Ryoku wanted to help make Amegakure become stronger, he was also starting to slightly regret being under their protection.

"If I was in another village and heard about what they did to me, I'd be furious. Thats my opinion, Anyways." Kuni said, and the spark in her eyes vanished. Letting out a sigh, she looked around at the bit of mess she created "I will not apologize for what I've done or said here, Ryoku. And you have lost all the respect I once had towards you. So if you want to talk to me again, don't. Send Eiji-sensei or Hoshi, but I do not wish to speak to you again, no matter what may be the reason." She said and turned to look at him again "Freedom means everything to me. Right now, I've become aware that Amegakure's freedom has been taken by the Fire Union. That needs to change. Understand, Ryoku?" Kuni asked him in a clear voice, returning to the normal volume of he voice, but having a very unusual serious tone.

" I see. I am saddened that this is how you see things, Kuni. While I am glad that you are ... offering me goals to lead my politics towards to, you must understand this is not how it works. We were undesired persons in the past, Kuni. There can be no happiness in a world where the undesirable are thrown away. You thought that I lied to you, Kuni ... in this world, there are no truths or lies. There are only hard facts ... and for you, only the facts that are favorable to you are true ones. If you can give me advice on how to handle the foreign policies of a village, I am all open to suggestions. However ... as long as you don´t have an idea how it works, please do not come up with ideas that are just nonsensical idealism. What saddens me even more than your attitude is that, despite all you told me and all you did here ... you fail to see one thing. I am responsible for more persons than just you, Kuni. I had to act with their best interest in my heart in my mind, while my hands were tied behind my back."

" But that is a burden of being a Kage, Kuni. I do not expect you to understand it, as I will never understand the burden of being a Jinchuuriki ... or the burden of going through what you are going through right now. Trying to do everything you just told to me in my situation is like trying to fit two puzzles that do not match. I understand that I lost all the respect I had, Kuni. But you must accept that you, too ... lost my respect. I expected to see a hero today ... if you have nothing more to say, than please excuse me, but my duties are waiting for me."

Not reacting to what Ryoku said, Kuni merely went and approached the office door "Good day, Ryoku." She said in the same cheerful tone that she had entered the room with, seemingly reverting back to her usual personality. She had no intention of letting this keep her down or anything of that sort, and after closing the door behind her, Kuni begun to run, wanting to resume her training for the Chuunin Exams, to also be capable of taking her mind of this current conversation.

But know what?
[12:26:28] Aliceee: You win.
[12:26:36] Chrome: Curses
[12:26:41] Chrome: I see your plan...
[12:26:45] Aliceee: Hahahaha.
[12:26:47] Chrome: Troublemaker
[12:26:47] Aliceee: What plan?
[12:27:00] Aliceee: I have literally no idea what you're on about now.
[12:27:13] Chrome: I never win xD
[12:27:29] Aliceee: But now you do. ^^
[12:27:41] Chrome: It's a trap!
[12:27:42] Chrome: :P
[12:27:49] Aliceee: Else I know a way to prove that you really won today.
[12:27:51] Aliceee: One second.
[12:28:30] Chrome: Chrome waits patiently, curious as to this strange proof she speaks of

Sitting in a meditation sit, Kiyomi held on to the Tiger Handseal. Slowly breathing in and out, she held her eyes closed. The sound of falling water surrounded her and she found it quite soothing. There was also another sound. A sort of hissing, but she paid little attention to it. Then slowly she took a larger breath in and out as she opened her eyes. Sitting on top of a rock, water was falling around her but not touching her. Like the water was gently trying to avoid her getting soaked. That wasn't however the case as there were some small signs of steam, water being evaporated before it could lay a touch on her. Then as she placed her hands on her lap, she tried to remain focus. She could clearly see the small changes with her sharp eyes and it was almost the downfall of her concentration.

The water was able to get closer by as she undid the handseal. Staring at what happened, she then smiled. Finally she had managed what most would call useless, small and not really worthy striving for. Learning one of the basic principles of Fire Ninjutsu. Then she let her control slip as the water cooled her down. Closing her eyes again, she could remember the time back when she had requested Jinkama about teaching her the basic principles of Fire Ninjutsu. It had been quite simple, much easier than she first back then had assumed. Warming up tea. A rather useless ability for a shinobi, one that wouldn't have any use of warm tea in a fight. In a serious one, she thought with a giggle.

Slowly rising herself up, she took a deep breathing while trying to focus back. It felt different. But then again, it was a different nature. Another element. Why she found it so soothing, Kiyomi wasn't sure. But as she thought about it, the soft hissing sound came back as her body temperature started to rise. Forming the Tiger handseal again, she started to focus again as she tried to keep her breathing regular. For several minutes she just stood there, trying to focus and maintain what she was doing.

I think that is enough for now. After the thought, Kiyomi would jump away from the rock. Landing on the small lake in front of the water fall, she walked towards the shore as she thought about it. The training she had been working on and doing wasn't one to improve her combat ability. Perhaps her control over Fire nature, but it wasn't directly aimed at that. She went to her shoulder bag, that she had laid on the ground before she had went to train. Bending through her legs to pick it up, she decided to take the towel out of the bag and inspect herself. Though her control was improving, it wasn't perfect. There were still some spots on her arms and left leg, on the knee, where the water had been able to touch her clothing. Storing the towel away, she decided to sit down. Turning around, she stared at the waterfall, thinking again.

If each element feels different and reacts different, what does that say? Does it mean that each person with a certain affinity is following that element? If so, wouldn't that mean that people wouldn't have an easier time to understand each other?

She didn't consider herself much of a philosopher or some wise sage. Or monk. The thought made her smile a bit as she pulled her legs up, wrapping her arms around them. What a sight that would be. Not that there was anything wrong with being dressed as a monk, she thought. But for some reason she saw herself with a shaved head and that was both scary as funny. How would Hiron and Keiko react to that, she wondered with a growing smile. Probably first be surprised and then be laughing for days. Would the others also laugh?

That last thought made her a bit sad again. It gave raise to the memories she had of the people that weren't alive anymore. Even with the soothing scene of the waterfall, she couldn't push away the thoughts and memories. There were so many names already. Kaname, Katsuko and many more. And even some lived, but they were acting like they were already sort of dead. Leo.

The name alone made her feel miserable. Right when she thought she had made some progress. Some sort of advancement towards her goal of becoming the next Hokage, that next person that would help everyone out. The leader that would try to keep everybody safe. How proud she felt when she had gained students, real official ones. The joy and pride were so great that she had almost been late. All because she couldn't have closed her eyes without giggling and being all excited about it. But now, after all what had happened, she was starting to question herself. Was she even a good sensei?

Slowly, she brushed a few strands of hair behind her left ear, which reminded her of Hayate. ''Hay-ate.'' She whispered, already forming a little smile. A name that somehow made her smile at almost any time of the day. He had grown into a fine shinobi, she thought. From the more introvert shy person into somebody that others would be able to rely on. Then she bursted out in laughter. I think like an old woman.

But as she stopped laughing, there was another student she thought of. ''Leo.'' Somehow the smile vanished slowly. ''Leeee-oooo.'' No, the little smile didn't come back and she knew why. Because it was her fault. Wasn't it a duty of a sensei to watch over the students of the team? To try to help them? Was lying and betraying, as she couldn't see it any other way, helping him? It certainly didn't help her to feel better about what had transpired lately. Perhaps he had grown a bit under her tutelage, but for what gain? He had resigned from being a shinobi and she couldn't blame him. If she had been only able to do something for him. For many others then she wouldn't be sobbing in her thoughts like this. Sighing out loud, Kiyomi pushed herself up from the ground. Dusting her clothes off, she glanced one more time at the waterfall. Then she turned around to walk back towards town.

On her way, she took a calm pace as she wasn't in a hurry. With Hayate at the Chuunin exams and Tatsuya been given some time for himself, she had some more time for herself. Most members of the Guardians were at the exams and those who weren't, were too busy with their own teams or perhaps just doing at least something? For a moment, Kiyomi halted as a thought came up. Perhaps I should use the Transformation Technique to look different today? She considered it. If she would just walk into town, people would recognize her. They would know that she was Kiyomi. But today she didn't want to be Kiyomi. A playful smile crept on her lips as she formed a plan. Why not go for a normal civilian today?

But as she formed the required seals and moulded her chakra to form the Transformation Technique, Kiyomi stopped. A name. I need a good name. Thinking about some, she then thought of a good one. ''Ni-ki. Niki.'' She whispered, feeling somehow proud that she managed to come up with such a short, but nice name. No hidden meanings to the name or at least no intention to it. Using the technique, she would go for a bit smaller person with curly brown hair and a bit of paler skin. For a moment she wished that she had a mirror in her shoulder bag, but it just had to make due.

---

''That is all?'' The man asked, politely, as she nodded. Naming the price, Niki pulled out her purse and took out the money. Exchanging it for some small bread, Niki turned around. Today's market was kind of busy, which had surprised her a bit. She had expected it to be a bit busier with the Chuunin exams. Taking a small bite from her sandwich, Niki started to walk again. There was a lot of interesting stands. Several times she stopped and genuinely interested looked around.

''This is real silver from the north. You like?'' The vendor asked, seeing that Niki was looking interested at some wares of the man. A bit surprised, Niki let out a small laugh while raising her hand in front of her mouth. ''Sorry, but I am just looking. But they are from the north?'' She asked, pointing with her other hand at some of the very small jewelry. The man nodded as he rubbed his hands. ''Yes, yes. I have family there, you see? Can I interest you in this bracer?''

The man lifted up the bracer and showed it to her. Niki looked with a smile at the details and just listened to the man. If she would be Kiyomi, the man would probably treated her differently. Perhaps used some sign of honor or respect at the end of her name or something like that. Right now she wasn't even asked for her name. All she was for the vendor was just a girl that could be a potential buyer for the bracer. Taking the bracer in her own hands, Niki examined it further. ''What are these signs?'' She asked, not able to read them. They weren't any normal writings.

''They are ancient. Yes, you see? Very ancient writings from the ancestors up in the far north, yes?'' Was the reply of the man as he nodded several times while talking to Niki. Frowning, Niki took a look again. They had some crude look and weren't as refined as many other symbols or signs she had seen at other places. Yet, they were nice, like somebody had tried to use the best of some simple tools to carve and ensign the signs into the bracer.

''How much does it cost?'' Niki asked and this caused the man to clap his hands as he gained a glint in his eyes. Only a few minutes later, Niki was walking away with the bracer in her left hand. It hadn't been that cheap, but she somehow felt happy. She had bought a bracer. Perhaps not an useful one to Kiyomi, but she could still like it, couldn't she? Then she decided it was perhaps a bit too ironic that she had to take a different name with her disguise. Glancing another time at the bracer, she wondered if the story was true or not. Not that she had much experience with the north. Only that she had been once up far north with Hideki during one of her own more covert missions. That made her wonder what had became of him. Hideki had always been a loyal friend, but they had lost touch when he had been requested to take up a position at an outpost. Was he still a genin or had he been able to become a chuunin along the way? Hopefully he was, cause then she had a nice gift for him. Storing the bracer away in her bag, Kiyomi smiled. Walking further at the market, she decided to buy a gift for two more people she cared about.

As Kiyomi walked the market, disguised as ''Niki'', she thought about what she could buy. The market wasn't a good source to buy anything related to armor or weaponry. But Kensuke likely had also other interests, right? She thought about it. It was kind of hard as he had always been her kendo-senpai. But more did she know about him? He was the current clan leader in name of the Nimatsu clan, thus the actual leader of the Talon village. Which was a vassal of Konohagakure. Wait, no. She was trying to buy something for a friend and not to please a clan leader, she reminded herself off.

Walking further, she looked left and right. For some reason, she thought he would like something practical. Something he would be able to use. Perhaps a new hat? They were practical at some times. Seeing a stall that was selling clothing, Kiyomi walked towards it. And if it were her lucky day, they were selling hats as well. While she searched for one, Kiyomi felt a bit funny. Most of the hats would look odd on Kensuke. Some had feathers or other colorful patterns. Perhaps he would like one of those? Yet they didn't seem that practical to her. Frowning, she then caught sight of a plain Buddhist monk hat. For some odd reason she could picture Kensuke with the hat, a straw in the right corner of his mouth and some ragged cloak. The mysterious swordsman. The thought made her almost burst out in laughter as she wasn't sure if she should really consider that. But the thought made her buy the hat. Though it earned some surprise look from the woman who owned the stall, she managed to buy the hat some cheap price. It was after all an ordinary hat. For the time being she would place it on top of her head and felt the need for a straw or toothpick.

Now it was time to look for a gift for somebody else. This time she didn't had to worry about anything practical. Just something fun. Only for some twisted reason, she couldn't come up with anything fun. Neither was she sure what sisters would buy for each other as a gift. The mysterious small girl with a hat, sword and toothpick. The thought of seeing Midori as the version of the ''mysterious'' sword wielder made Kiyomi giggle. Though it would somehow be cool if that was the case. Could she then claim she was the sibling of the awesome mysterious sword wielding stranger? No, that would be a mouthful and people liked to nick things a bit shorter. At least, she did.

Wandering around the market, she felt a bit disappointed. It was large, but she had seen most of it and there was nothing that she found fun or interesting enough to send towards Kumogakure for Midori. Not that she would need to send anything fast as the means of trying to pass something towards Midori would take quite some time, Kiyomi hoped that she could buy something for Midori now. It was refreshing and fun that people treated like she was just one of them. A normal civilian and not some infamous kunoichi. Then she gained an idea what she could buy for Midori. Turning around, Kiyomi looked around for a stand that she had seen earlier. Hopefully she will love this. Kiyomi thought to herself with a growing smile.

---

''Thank you, good man.'' Smiling, she would part ways with the trader she had spoken. The man would go towards the north east to trade in the Frost country and said that he knew a good friend that would be able to try to get the gift towards Midori. His friend was a trader of Kumogakure's origin and Kiyomi had learned earlier that Midori had also gained some fame of her own. Now it was just waiting and perhaps one day she would get a reply back from her sister. Deciding to head home for now, Kiyomi lowered with her right hand the hat as she lowered her head a bit.

Humming a soft tone, she would step aside for a bypassing cart. With a slow movement, she raised her arm a bit as the cart moved by. Taking a few steps again, she would raise her hand and glance back at the cart. One corn stalk could be missed, couldn't it? Turning around, she placed the stalk in the corner of her right mouth. Heading further down the road she started to think again. Niki, the mysterious corn stalk wielder with a hat.

Lord Hokage,

A week passed since my arrival in the Wolf Country, where the situation was worse than anticipated. Despite some initial harshness, I managed to gain the trust of a local resistance group. Together, we worked intensely on destablishing the control that Kiri has established in the region. Despite suffering several injuries, I managed to remove two persons who proved to be a threat to our planes. After gathering all the resistance members we could, we are going into an open assault against the local Kiri forces. At least, that is what they think will happen. I intend to sneak forward and assassinate the puppet leader installed, then replace him with anybody willing to follow orders from you, Lord Hokage.

In case I shall fail and die on this mission, please accept my deepest apologies for my failure.

Suzaku Uzumaki."

Nariko lost his sense about time since his last mission. He was not sure if he completed it in the first place. He left Kumogakure several months ago on a mission assigned to him by his Senpai, Takeru. On his mission, Nariko was supposed to deliver an offer or something - however, he was not sure if it reached the recipient. The young Jun was dragged into a wild chase behind his clans roots and current whereabouts. He learned several things he wanted to immediately share with his brother Satoshi, but he felt that he had to see his Senpai first. There was a high chance that his disappearance might complicated things.

He was aware of the fact that after his disappearance, he might be labelled as a missing nin for his village, and thus marked for execution on sight. He was even prepared that there was a high chance that Takeru himself will carry out his execution. Aware of this, he traveled to Amegakure where currently Takeru was attending the Chuunin Exams. Still, with his current condition, he might not live that long. He guessed he has several broken bones, some of them complicated fractures. His hands were covered by scratches and some scars. Blood was already dried on his right cheek and his sword was just as rusty and covered in blood.

Despite this, he was there, standing before the gates of Amegakure, visibly more guarded than any time before. He stood there as people spotted him and pointed at him." Stand there with you hands above your head and state your bussiness!" He stood and raised his head, looking at them." Nariko Jun, Kumogakure ANBU operative. Or, maybe former ANBU operative ..." The guards looked a bit puzzled, but before they could continue, he spoke up." I demand an audience with The Raikage!"

Takeru turned his head as Midori wished to see her friend. He personally didn't care much for the loss on Kumo's side, but if the boy was injured then it would do no good if Midori would keep asking to see him. Raising his right hand, he waved as if he was trying to wave away some of her concern, speaking to Midori. ''You may go see your friend. With some ANBU. After that, I expect you come back instantly.'' Takeru said as he turned his head away from the girl. He could see some match going on from his current seat, but he was growing bored. It was a nice sight to see such motivated genin trying to struggle against the odds and each other, but for somebody who had seen a lot of battles Takeru wasn't interested to see a lot of genins battling each other. Maybe he could see a fight that would pique his interest, but for what he had seen so far, it was just going to be dull.

A few tense seconds passed. Maybe minutes. Nariko was not sure, but after that moment, several figures leaped down from the city gates and stood next to him." We will escort you to the Raikage. Just a safety precaution in case you would try something ... reckless." Nariko almost rolled his eyes, but followed them when they started to move." Like a practically dead person could assassinate the Raikage when surround by his most elite guards, a few Kage and their best bodyguards." One of the members of the escort gave him a look that silenced him in an instant." I was just ... you know ... saying." This time, he was left without a reply. They proceeded to walk in utter silence for the next couple of minutes and Nariko took in his surroundings. It looked like the rumors were true. Amegakure was hotsing the Chuunin Exams and as he soon learned, he was taken right to Takeru.

Just when Takeru was pondering on retreating and take some time from the arena's as his interest was dropping with each passing minute, he noticed a member of his guard approaching him. The masked ANBU whispered something that made the masked Raikage a bit surprised. ''Ah.'' Now his interest in the fights were completely lost as Takeru mumbled back that he wished to have two of his own medical nin to be ready. After all, letting one of his ANBU being treaten by the staff of the Fire Union while he had a few of his own medical nin at his disposal? No, that would be a stain on Kumogakure's honor. The ANBU went back his spot as Takeru noticed who was being escorted to him. ''Nariko Jun.'' Takeru mumbled, pleasantly surprised as the ANBU had only whispered that somebody wished an audience with him.

Immediately upon spotting Takeru rise, Nariko immediately dropped on one of his knee, sighing a bit from the pain the sudden movement caused to him." Raikage-Sama ... " He remained silent for a while, not sure what to really say." I ... I am hope I am not disturbing you during the exams that are currently taking place. Before anything, I would like to say ..." He took a deep breath, followed by a sharp pain in his chest." I am fully aware that I practically abandoned my mission and never completed it. That my absence was unauthorized and ... if I was labelled a Missing-Nin ... I am prepared for the judgement that awaits me." With that being said, Nariko expected to hear the sound of a blade being swung. He would not dare to look up.

Rising up, Takeru moved his hands at his back. The masked Kage stared at the Jun that was kneeled down. ''My guards will take over now.'' Takeru said with a calm tone. The ANBU guard would take up new positions and two at the flank of Nariko. With the escort sent away as it wasn't of their concern or healthy to meddle in the affairs of another village, Takeru waited for a few moments. ''So it is true that you didn't complete your mission and got side tracked. Then you show up, wounded and at a timing like this?'' The tone of Takeru was stern and he paused as he took one step towards Nariko. There was a smalle distance between the two. ''Which is kind of perfect. I was getting a bit bored by watching these genins fight.'' Chuckling a bit, Takeru gestured with his left hand for Nariko to rise up. ''Stand up and let yourself be treaten, Nariko. Think you could use some aid.'' The two ANBU at Nariko's flank would approach the latter and attend to his wounds at best of their ability. The minor wounds and cuts would be healed up, but for the heavier they would need more time and preparation to attend to them.

Nariko expected everything to go black as soon as Takeru started to speak and approached him. But just as he replied, he was about to laugh out at the response, but just as he took a breath, another sharp stab in his chest idea made him change his mind. He stood up and felt huge relief as his wounds were being tended to. His more serious, internal wounds were still causing him pain, but he was already somewhat used to it."You know how to surprise your subordinates, Senpai. I was prepared for being executed on spot. Also ... as for the aid ... I personally have no idea how I ended up getting this much of a beating ... it is a long story. Wait ... " What just happened took some time for Nariko to fully understand. He was gone for several months, failed to complete his mission, and Takeru greeted him like an old friend." I ... I can keep my head?"

''For now, yes. I need to know after all why and how you got side tracked. Then of course, I need to be careful.'' Takeru sighed as he lowered his head a bit. A sigh escaped the masked Raikage as he continued on a more depressed tone. ''Politics and such. It would be rather unwise to behead you here and now. Then the Fire Union could request to investigate the matter and try to learn about Kumogakure from researching your body. Quite annoying if that would happen.'' Pausing, Takeru chuckled again as he shook his head. ''But I rather wouldn't execute one of my finest. Besides, I think some of us deserve a second chance, don't we?'' Takeru asked in an amused tone, a clear reference to the time when Nariko had learned on the true identy behind the name of Takeru. Even before he had became Raikage.

Nariko remained silent for a while, considering Takeru´s words. Indeed, his argument was an understandable one. It would not help either Takeru or Kumogakure. And politics ... blargh." I admire you, Senpai ... for handling politics. I would not have the nerve to do so ... most foreing politicians disgust me. I think all they would learn from my body in my current condition is that how badly can a human be screwed up and still be standing ...or not standing that much. I understand your reasoning, Senpai ... and ... thank you for still considering me to be one of your best ... it is a great honor for me. But ... I would like to explain myself."

Collecting his thoughts for a while, he started." My mission was a rather simple one - deliver a diplomatic offer, and if it would be rejected, make sure it will not be rejected for long. It went pretty well at the beginning. I was almost at the Capital where I was to deliver the offer, when I was ambushed. I had no knowledge about them, but they fought like fully trained ANBU operatives. Considering it a slight detour, I followed a series of leads that led me to something I considered to be lost forever ... the Jun Clan. My own, long lost clan - turned into tools of war for the highest bidder. So I decided to prolong my mission a bit ... only to be dragged into an open revolt. As we are speaking, the Jun clan is relocating towards the Lightning Country, where I hope they will be able to live in peace ... that is why I wanted to meet you, Senpai. Under the assumption that I will be executed, I wanted to exchange my life for the safety of the remain of my clan and my brother. We spent those months engaged in bitter battles and ... well, that is how I got so messed up. Something tells me that the troubled times are far from over for my clan but ... I wanted to create a tiny ray of hope for them to clung onto. That ... that is my story, Senpai."

It became silent after the last words of Nariko. Frowning behind his mask, Takeru thought about what his friend and ANBU told him. ''It is good that a clan wishes to become part of the Lightning Country. Such events and messages do both me and the Cloud good.'' Though he spoke with a friendly tone, it was clear that Takeru was a bit worried. Turning his head to the right to glance at a match, he began to think. ''I will need to hear later who and why they were fighting. And against whom. But that is for when we are back.'' Raising a hand, one of the ANBU nodded. ''Bring back a message and make sure that the Jun clan are given a place to stay. I shall later personally see it happen that they will gain a compound of their own and will be accepted as one of Kumogakure's clans.'' The ANBU made a bow and would head away. Turning his attention back to Nariko, Takeru still sounded worried. ''Perhaps not the best time, but does your clan have a capable leader at the current time? One that I could perhaps contact later with?''

Nariko returned the worried look." Not really, Senpai. It turns out that the ones most suitable to lead the clan are either me, or my brother. Despite the fact that some members are older and far more experienced than we are. It took them about three weeks to reach the decision to declare their allegiance to the Cloud. As for now, they sent me as their representative. So ... I am the one who you are referring to, Senpai. Our clan is not that numerous, but most members underwent extensive combat training and fought as mercenaries for years, so they would be a valuable addition into our armed forces. As with their loyalty to be truly guaranteed ... I guess that will take the combined efforts of me and Satoshi to deal with but ... I foresee no problems. If they do happen ... I am prepared to ... cut out the rot from the clan, Senpai."

At first Takeru had worried about that they would be more of a nuisance, but after hearing Nariko's words the man felt a bit more comfortable. His role as Raikage said that he shouldn't trust a clan that suddenly appeared out of the blue to swear an oath of alliance to Kumogakure. But he had served for some time with Nariko and if the latter said such words, then Takeru saw one option he had to take. ''Then I will see and appoint you now as the one Jun I will see as their leader. And if you're words are true, which I don't doubt, then I am glad to welcome such people into the Cloud.'' He chuckled. Though he wasn't sure what skilled force was present in the Jun clan, every Kage would be happy to receive a free and possible loyal armed force at their side. Every trained and able bodied person that could carry a weapon was after all a boon in times like these. ''Now please, take it easy. We will further discuss about your clan once you have patched up. Have you eaten anything?''

Nariko bowed to the words of the Raikage. He understood, now more than ever that he was the man that Kumogakure needed in days like this one to lead them towards the uncertain future. As imposing as he was, his chuckling could give even the most serious situations a light tone." Food was not a trouble, Senpai. I am not very picky, I spent the last two weeks hunting for wildlife and roasting it with Fire Release ... avoid bears if you can. Especially when tired and low on chakra ... my collarbone is a testament to that. What is worse that I canˇt remember the last time I enjoyed a cup of sake. How about you and sake, Senpai?"

Laughing out loud, Takeru nodded as he would softly pat Nariko's shoulder. ''That you even need to ask is just another reason why we need to get some. Though I am not sure about the quality of sake here in the rain, I suppose it wouldn't harm if we would get and try some of it.'' Making a short gesture with his free hand, the ANBU would form a formation around the two as Takeru then gestured to Nariko to walk with him. ''But first, good friend. Let's get you a safe place where we can take care of your wounds. Then we can drink on your health.''

Nariko grunted a bit from the soft pat." O-o-ouch ... Senpai ... my collarbone. I got mauled by a pissed of black bear and ... I don´t even know why. I was just passing around, not attacking or hunting it. I guess territories are territories, right?" He then followed Takeru as he gestured him and heard the kindest words. And it was good to be back in the world, where things happened.