Koike checked his gear. Everything was laid out on the table. The few shuriken and kunai were laced with some substance. On the shuriken there was some dark green substance, a liquid form of the poison that Koike had used against Ezuri. And there was some other liquid substance on the kunai, a more grey one. After he was sure that each weapon was properly prepared, Koike stored them away in a small specialized section in both his normal as kunai pouch.

’’Ready? ‘’ Aiko asked as she was leaning against the wall. Her eyes looked outside and just stared at the horizon. The woman had sent out a shadow clone to hear who Koike’s opponent was, but she wanted to stay and try to offer some help. Not that she could do much. ’’Your opponent is Reyna Azuma. ‘’ Aiko told him, glancing sideways at him.

’’Reyna Azuma.‘’ Koike whispered slowly as he stored his weapons away. He thought about the name as he had done some research the past few days. But he couldn’t remember anything about this Reyna. ’’Which village is she part off?‘’ Koike asked as he turned around. He shoved his hands down in his pockets as he also stared out of the window. The question was asked as he wasn't sure if Aiko had any information about this Reyna person.

’’Kumogakure. She was the opponent of another genin I know.’ Aiko replied as she then decided it was time. ’’We should get going.‘’ It was odd. If she had knew that everything had went on like this, that Koike would eventually reach the second round of the chuunin exam. Then again, perhaps she was maybe a bit too struck with the past? Flashing a warm smile, she beckoned him to follow her. ’’So, got any plan for today’s match?‘’

Walking next to Aiko, Koike frowned as he looked up for a moment. ’’With no information about my opponent, no not really.‘’ He told her. And it didn’t really matter. He could always go for the more general and broad approach and try to lure his opponent into a trap. Even a Hyuuga had easily walked into one. Though he considered that as a gamble, he wouldn't complain about it. It had made him pass towards the second round without much of a sweat.

’’From what I saw is that she uses swords and lightning release. You got an advantage over with that. Problem is however that she has a summoning, an armadillo. He can use earth release to move around like a mole.‘’ Aiko started as they would walk out of the hotel. Though it could be a bit unfair, she didn’t had any problem with it. She was a kunoichi and fighting fair wasn’t something she would do. Neither did she do it to give Koike more chance to pass the fight. It was just normal in her opinion that she provided her student with some information. As if they would in the field keep information from each other about any potential enemy that they had observed or encountered before.

Lightning and kenjutsu? That made him think that he had held indeed an advantage over his future opponent. He had already a plan in mind of what he could do, but he would need to be sure about the speed and reflexes of his opponent. ’’Anything else I should know?’’ He asked her, briefly wondering what Aiko could tell him. The more information he had at his disposal, the better.

Aiko thought about the match, but it had been several days ago. That and she hadn’t been able to figure all of the tricks and moves from Kuni’s opponent. The match had even ended earlier than she had anticipated cause Kuni had gave up. ’’Not really. She seems like a decent fighter in my opinion.’’ Aiko told Koike. ’’What did you had in mind?’’

’’Not sure yet. I need to see her speed and reflexes for myself. But seems that I will have an upper hand when it comes down to kenjutsu. At least when combined with nature release as my wind release would in theory neutralize and stabilize hers.’’ Koike thought further about it. He had already two tactics in mind if her lightning release style would generate flickers or sparks of lightning. Then he could use that against his opponent. ’’I am already tempted to start with the same trick as before, but I rather not risk the fact that my opponent has heard about that.’’ Koike almost pouted after saying that, but he managed to remain looking calm.

Smiling, Aiko nodded slowly. She was briefly wondering already on how the match would go. But she had faith in her student that he would do his best. ’’I have to agree with that. Though I am still surprised that it had went that easily.’’ Personally, she had expected more from a student of Kensuke. But she reminded herself that this was his very first genin team. Thus she couldn’t claim that it was that big of a surprise. ’’Good luck, Koike.’’ Aiko gently ruffled through his hair and smiled once more as they were nearing the arena. [b]’’I am proud of you.’’[/b With that having said, she would head away towards the tribune. Perhaps Katsu and Yukara were already there? She had decided to use a shadow clone to watch over Kei and Akimoto at the hotel.

For a moment, Koike halted and glanced at the back of his sensei. Clenching his hands into fists, he felt that slight rush. Turning his head to glance at the entrance of the arena, he took a few steps. The rush had vanished and he wasn’t sure what it had been. Putting it out of his mind, Koike focused his mind on one goal. One objective.

The small nose of the armadillo tickled her hand as Akutō ate the treats she held for him. Smiling slightly at the strange sensation, Reyna scratched the small creature under his chin, turning towards where Michi was perched. "Do you know who I am facing, Michi-sama?" She asked, her voice sounding a little more hollow than she hoped. Akutō caught the tone and looked up at her from where he was snacking. Seeing the look in Reyna's eyes, the armadillo decided to wisely say nothing, and instead he returned his attention to eating.

The sparrow was looking out of the window and only turned around after Reyna had asked the question. ''Not yet. I do see people moving towards the arena or that big facility. Probably for the announcement.'' Michi said. Somehow it sounded like he was trying to be careful to not sound rude or stern. Cocking his head to the right, the eyes of the bird were squinted as he observed the jinchuriki. ''Are you ready?'' Michi then asked.

Not answering for a moment, Reyna thought hard about the question. When she had first found out about... about Deidara, it had been devastating. Reyna had not known how to react. She hadn't been allowed to see Midori, nor was there anyone familiar around with whom she could properly grieve. And so, she had been forced to grieve alone, knowing that Midori was stuck in the same situation, and wishing she could be there for her friend. As the days had passed, Reyna had tried to grow strong, tried to put away her emotions so that she wasn't just an upset little girl. Deep inside she knew it was a lie, but if she could convince everyone around her, then maybe... just maybe, she would eventually end up believing it herself.

"Yes." She finally answered, patting Akutō on the head affectionately. "And Michi-sama... just... thank you. For staying with me. I know you're under orders and probably wouldn't still be here if you had the choice... But thanks."

The words of Reyna caused Micho to blink rapdily with his eyes and growing confused. The thanks of Reyna had caught the bird off guard and Michi wasn't sure why Reyna was thanking him. From her words, he was glad that she understood that orders were orders, but thanking him for just doing what he had been told? It was very strange in his opinion. Setting it aside, the bird hopped a bit around as he seemed to think. ''Then I suppose we should get going now. Have you checked your gear?'' The bird asked, feeling a bit uncomfortable for some reason.

Nodding her head, Reyna glanced at the bed where she had laid everything out. Her two sword-whips were shining faintly from the fresh clean she had given them, and the rest of her tools and weapons were laid out beside them. Sighing inwardly, Reyna set the armadillo down beside her. "I think it's time to go, Akutō. I may be needing you soon, so try and get some rest." Scratching the animal's armoured head affectionately, Reyna watched him poof away in a small puff of smoke. Gathering her weapons and tools, she looked back at the sparrow. "Ready when you are, Michi-sama."

Spreading out his wings, Michi hopped off the desk as he would then soar to land on top of Reyna's right shoulder. ''I am ready.'' The sparrow told her. He looked sideways at her before looking at front. ''I suppose that I don't need to brief you in that you will face now somebody more experienced than before?'' The sparrow however continued. ''Lets hope that you will face somebody who isn't more experienced than you are.'' Realizing that he had said that it could be seen that he was hoping it for her, the sparrow raised his head a bit. ''Not that I wouldn't mind to see a good fight.''

Grinning despite everything else, Reyna threw a quick glance towards the sparrow. Exiting the hotel, Reyna thought about the match ahead. She had no idea what to expect, but Michi was right. From here out, the competition was only going to get harder. She had been lucky in her first match, and Reyna doubted she would have that same luck again. If she hoped to win this time, she was going to have to rely on her skill and her training. "Do you know anything about the other participants?" She asked the sparrow, knowing it was a longshot.

''Not really, no. I have been keeping my eyes on you as I was ordered too.'' Michi said. Spreading out a wing, the bird tried to gesture to the village they were walking in. All that rain, how annoying. ''I have some information that I gained over the times that I worked with Lady Asami. So if you are fighting against a well known clan member, I could provide some intel.'' Folding his wing again, the bird's mood was growing more grumpy with each rain drop. It was very irritating for the sparrow and kind of depressing that he had to stay as long as Reyna would be in Amegakure. He longed for the cold and fresh mountain air that was easy to find in the Lighnting Country. Not this damp rain!

Noticing the bird shifting on her shoulder once again, Reyna reached into her pocket and retrieved the small umbrella she had bought from the market two... or was it three days ago...? She had lost track of what day it was after spending so much time cooped up in the hotel room. Michi had let her out, under strict supervision of course, and even then she had only been as far as the market. The rain didn't bother Reyna as much as she had thought it would, but it was clear that the sparrow was not overly fond of the rain. Unfolding the umbrella, Reyna raised it above her head, shielding them both from the weather.

"I suppose we shall find out soon enough," she said quietly.

Glad with the small umbrella that Reyna used, Michi nodded a bit, as a sign that he approved the action. ''Though, keep in mind that my intel isn't that detailed or useful. I am not a combat summoning after all.'' There was some tone in Michi's speech that caused him to sound like he was pouting. ''Not to mention that times change, so perhaps my intel might be even a bit outdated.'' Already the bird was thinking and trying to remember all the clans he had heard off or seen in action. But there were so many clans and a lot weren't really alike, thus Michi decided that he would wait and see who Reyna's opponent would be.

Smirking at the bird's tone, Reyna would have been tempted to bug him about it, if not for the flurry of other thoughts racing through her mind. "I am sure that anything you can tell me will be useful, Michi-sama."

They neared the spot of the announcement, and already a crowd was gathering. Reyna could feel her stomach churning with the nerves as she waited to here who she would be facing. A few names were called out and it took Reyna a long moment to realize that hers was one of the ones that had been mentioned. Ko-Koike Hon? The name was not familiar to her at all, and Reyna wished she had paid more attention to the previous matches. She hadn't had much time to study after... Turning to Michi, Reyna whispered, "Have you heard that name before?"

The bird remained silent, thinking about the name of Reyna's opponent. Then the bird produced something that was close of what could be considered as a sigh. ''Sadly, the name doesn't say anything to me. The surname however,'' Michi paused. ''The Hon clan is one infamous clan in the Fire Country. They have produced some capable shinobi, like the Third.. Hokage? I believed it was called Hokage.'' Michi shook his head lightly, trying to focus on information that would help Reyna in her coming fight. ''Mostly renowned lightning users and other than that, they don't have a bloodline ability. At least, I thought so.'' Michi wondered if he was thinking about the correct clan. Pondering about it, he decided it wouldn't matter that much. If Reyna would be careful, then she could perhaps gain a win.

Nodding her head, Reyna thought about what the bird had said. Michi hadn't been able to share too much information with her, but at least she knew that her opponent was likely quite formidable, and a member of the Hidden Leaf village. The ones who had killed Deidara... A small amount of lightning began sparking out of her, as Reyna's eyes filled with cold anger. How could they!? Someone from the Leaf village had murdered her teammate, her friend. They hadn't told her who, most likely because that person was still a participant in the exams, and they didn't want Reyna to attempt to get revenge. Not that she was capable of it anyways... she could barely take care of herself. Shaking away the thoughts of self-pity, Reyna could feel her rage building. Seeing the arcs of lightning that began to shoot from her body, Reyna stepped away from the crowd, trying to rein in her emotions.

The crackle of lightning in the air had caused Michi to hop off Reyna's shoulder. The rain was a better option than to be zapped by the girl's lightning. Flapping his wings, to remain in the air, he noticed that Reyna's attitude changed. Wondering for a second why she had shifted to a more cool stance, he remembered what the cause was. Not sure if he approved it or not, the bird waited until the lightning had vanished before landing back on Reyna's shoulder. ''Getting angry, are we?'' Michi whispered. ''You know, this could be the perfect chance to vent out and who knows? A bit of vengeance?~''

Biting her tongue, Reyna slowly shook her head. "It wouldn't be right. Not unless I knew for sure it was the person who... Not unless I knew." Sighing, Reyna felt suddenly defeated, as if all her energy had been sapped out of her. Making her way towards the arena, she knew her match would be starting soon. "What do you think I should do?"

''Try to win.'' Was the simply answer of Michi. The bird seemed to consider something. ''And why wouldn't it be right? Was it right of Deidara to die at the hands of a Leaf nin? If that is your justice, then I suppose that it is perhaps better this way.'' Michi said. If a sparrow could smirk, Michi would have done so, but seeing that he couldn't do so, the bird decided to add something. ''I think nobody would batt an eye when you would try to go for a kill.''

Clenching her fists, Reyna's mind was at war with itself. A part of her kept screaming that it wasn't right, and that murdering someone else in cold blood just because he might be the one who killed her friend, would lead her down a path she didn't want to go down. But, on the other hand, she found herself agreeing with Michi. Her goal was to win this fight, and, if something somehow happened along the way, well... accidents happened all the time in the exams, right? "I should head to the field." She told Michi, "I'll need to prepare myself for this." In reality, Reyna thought it would be best if she had some time to herself, even if it was for a single moment. The match would start soon, and she needed to get her thoughts in order before the fight.

Moving to the edge of Reyna's shoulder, Michi couldn't say that he was disappointed. He wasn't sure if he had seen it alright, but he thought his words had delivered the poison he wanted to give. They weren't his orders and he wouldn't really care, but it would prove interesting to see if the girl was vurnable to words like these when she had lost somebody close to her. ''Best of luck then. I will be nearby.'' The bird told her as he leaped off her shoulder and would fly away. Probably trying to find a spot where he would be able to watch the match of Reyna without the risk of getting zapped or what so ever.

Nodding as the bird flew away, Reyna headed towards the entrance of the arena. Trying to steady herself, she walked slowly. Not for the first time, she wished Midori could be there with her. She could use a friend right now, and Reyna didn't have many left... Fighting back another surge of emotion, she approached the gate. This is it.

Standing near the main entrance and exit of Kumogakure, Satoshi was leaning against a nearby building. His arms crossed, there were two shoulder bags near him. Looking up, the weather was quite decent. A good sign for the start of the mission, he thought to himself. Not that he believed in omens, but nice signs were always welcome. Crossing his arms out front of his chest, Satoshi started to whistle a tune, waiting for his student to arrive.

Upon getting the message from Satoshi Sensei, she had rushed to throw things into her small pack and bid her mother good bye before running out of the house, walking at a brisk pace through the village and occasionally waving at some of the locals. Now that the main entrance was in sight, she sprinted and stopped a few steps away from her sensei. "Greetings, Satoshi-Sensei." Hanako said and bowed her head in respect.

''Greeting Hanako.'' Satoshi greeted her friendly back. The gesture, the bow, of respect was met with a flash of a smile of Satoshi. ''I hope that you're doing well.'' He said, pushing his back from the wall as he then reached out to the shoulderbags. Placing one on his shoulder, he kept the second one up. Stretched out towards Hanako while he would start a bit of the briefing. ''Today we are going towards the Frost Country. It will take some time, but our mission is to track a missing nin. And bring him back, alive.''

Nodding in reply to his question, she took the out stretched shoulder back and placed on her shoulder as she listened to the breifing. The Frost Country, she didnt even know where that was or how to get there. Although she was glad that it would give her a chance to prove herself in manner of speaking to her new sensei, it was after what she excelled at doing. "I dont think that bringing him back alive will be a problem, do you?" Hanako asked.

Thinking about the question, Satoshi shrugged lightly. ''With a good plan, I don't think it will become much of a problem. But I am maybe a bit too cautious, but I rather be careful.'' He thought about his own answer. Turning around to the gates, he beckoned her to follow him. Even if it was obvious that she should come with him, but he only realized that a moment later. ''From the briefing of the mission, I think we as sensory nin have a good advantage over him. If we manage to pin point his location and then trap him, we can easily take him out. If not? Then we will need to improvise.''

Hanako nodded at his answer, planning was alway essential in every successful mission. "Caution is not a bad thing," Hanako said, following him as he beckoned her to and listened to what he saying. They indeed had the advantage, being able to sense chakra through their sensory techniques. "I think we will do well in this mission," Hanako said, thinking that if push came to shove and the nin put up a good fight then they at least could fight back with a stronger resolve.

''We certainly will. Else I wouldn't be able to choose it.'' Satoshi said, smiling. Walking out of the gates, he thought about something briefly. The chances where that they were going to face an opponent that would be tough. That and he hadn't work ever together or trained with Hanako yet. The chance that they would be able to work perfectly together was slim. ''What is your favorite type of food?'' Satoshi suddenly asked.

Smiling at his words, she looked around and bit as they headed out of the village. Of course, she had been on missions out of the village but it was always nice to take in the scenery more than once. "My favorite food? I like salads, fruit salad especially," Hanako said. She was curious as to the fighting style that Satoshi-Sensei used, she knew that he was a sensory nin like her but how much offensive techniques did he know? Did he rely heavily on them or just a little?

''Healthy. That is good.'' Satoshi said, chuckling a bit. It was quite peaceful. The scenery that they were passing by. Though he couldn't help but to long for the mountain valleys, filled with forests and with some a lake, Satoshi didn't mind the mountainous area around Kumogakure. In a normal pace, he kept walking as he thought already about the plan that they could make for the mission. With having read and memorized Hanako's profile, Satoshi could try to form a plan. ''You never have been to the capital of the Frost, correct?'' Satoshi decided to ask. ''What would you expect from it?''

"Cold mostly, I suspect the people there will be wearing heavy coats and there could be some ice," Hanako said, her thoughts drifted off to Frost Country. She couldnt really imagine such a country or living in it for that matter, but if that was what the people there liked then who was she to question it? "Have you been there before?" she asked. One of the things she liked about going on missions was being able to see different places and different experiences.

''Several times, yes.'' Satoshi responded. He couldn't help but to smile a bit at what she expected. ''It is true that it is cold there and most of the year, there is snow present. Only the most southern and coast regions of the country aren't that cold. It is just that the land that is away from the border with the Fire Union and coasts are somewhat higher. Combined with the weather and other geographical facts, it creates the climate that gave the country its name.'' Realizing that he was talking quite a lot, he coughed softly. ''On our way I will buy us some jackets so that we don't have to suffer the cold that much.''

That made her smile, it would also be helpful in the mission they were on that he was familiar with the Frost Country. "I would imagine it would be even colder in the winter, snow is nice though. Mother says its cleanse the land of ill intent when it falls," Hanako said, giving him a warm smile when he said that he would buy them some jackets. That was nice of him, she thought. "Dont we have to adapt to the cold though? So we can work well without the jackets if we need to be able to move easier in the mission?" she asked.

''That sounds great, but I rather not have some limbs freezing.'' He said, a tad amused. ''I don't think it will be pleasant to stay long within the mainland of the Frost country without any clothing that will provide a good comfortable warmth.'' Satoshi then decided to pick up the pace a bit. ''But lets go a bit faster.'' With first a jog, he would then proceed to go with the traditional way of jumping from branch to branch style. Only there weren't much trees due the height of the land. But there were enough big boulders that could provide the same option as a branch could. Maybe even a sturdier landing place.

Hanako laughed at his answer, nodding when he said it would not be pleasant to stay long without comfortable warmth and it made sense. "Well I suppose thats true," Hanako said, noticing his change in pace. She was glad that she was wearing loose clothing so she could move more easily to keep up with the pace that he had set for them. Following him as he went into the trees, deciding to just follow him on the boulders instead as they were more of them than trees.

''In this way, the military will be split up in these divisions, which will be split up in these brigades, which form these battalions and so forth.'' Zakito calmly explained as he moved his finger over the paper. It was laid out on how a division was organized and more side information at the given rank. Leaning back in his seat, Zakito folded his hands together as he would await the feedback.

''This looks very good. I must say that I need some time to adjust to this kind of system, but can you explain again what it will improve over the current ranking system?'' Meisa asked. She was content, as she had been ever, with the work of her mentor and Jounin commander. Though she had some questions about the system and how it worked, she had faith that it would be good. However, she wanted to ask some questions to be sure that she understood it completely.

The question made Zakito nod before he started to give her the desired answer. ''The current system is simple and efficient to use. Useful for a peaceful period, but it is a hassle to organize it in divisions when a war erupts. During conflicts it is important that the standing army is being deployed and in action as fast as possible. Even better if it can act before the enemies can.'' Zakito told Meisa. He placed a finger on the paper, pointing at the top. The Major General. ''This position is responsible for a whole division. This means to lead the brigades, which are under the command of the Brigade General. It goes down to that and though it won't be looking much more efficient, it allows our troops to understand what their place is and thus being able to recognize faster what their role and order is. With a more efficient ranking system, we have an easier time to mobilize the troops. Thus being able to react faster than our rivals who rely on the traditional old system.''

The way how Zakito explained it made it look very attractive. Meisa frowned as she stared at the paper. Then she looked back at Zakito. His answer made it quite clear why there was so much thought and depth giving into the ranking, while the traditional system was simple compared to this. ''That sounds reasonable, but what about the people holding the positions? Why wouldn't the Hokage hold the position of major general? And why would the Amekage for example?'' Meisa asked. It could sound like she was pouting over that fact, but she suspected it had to do with that a leader wasn't always to be on the front lines. A leader would make the decisions behind it, leading the people in a place where the leader wouldn't be an easy prey for the violence of war and conflict.

''Any kage of a member state in the Union is in the hierarchy of the Union less important than the Hokage. But with this position, it will be both easier to keep an eye on them if they truly wish to work and for the Union. Next to that it will also give them the feeling that the Union do care about them and their village to place them in such a position, if they qualify. If not, then they are more or less given positions that will make it easy for us to keep them under control as even major generals fall underneath the command the Hokage and those who are chosen as advisers.'' Zakito explained. He wondered briefly if he had done the right thing. This system would be implanted right away and organized silently to be ready right after the exams would be over. He had given some thoughts on who would have each position, next to some research on what would be the best possible idea. After that, he had summoned several experienced jounins in order to make sure that most of the flaws were discussed and taken out.

Meisa smiled as she was glad with the answer. It would thus improve their military as improving their connection, which was growing every day with a bit due the system of the Fire Union, with the vassal states of the Fire Union. With recruits being drafted and drilled within the control of the Konohagakure shinobi and then a system like this would slowly create the Fire Union as one complete unified state. ''Sounds lovely.'' Meisa said. ''I take it that you have also prepared a list then of who will hold the lesser positions and such?''

Zakito nodded again as he would answer her. ''Yes, I have it prepared in a document. I might need to look it over to be sure that everything is correct worked out. Right now the system should be okay to be implanted into the Union's military force.'' Zakito told her. Then after a short pause, he started to speak again. ''I have also thought about the way to improve the leadership of those who are considered leading figures in the military. With a specialized academy, we could instruct specialized jounin, full fledged jounin and also ANBU in how warfare works. It might be better that they are prepared on it than them just to be thrown in the fray.''

Looking a bit surprised, Meisa thought about it. It sounded alright, to educate their shinobi better about warfare and leadership. It wasn't like it would be forever peace. Even if everybody would likely prefer a peaceful period above a bloody conflict one, it was always possible that there would be a spark, which would cause a conflict. ''And would this be for all in the Fire Union?'' Meisa asked.

''Yes.'' Zakito answered. ''With an academy in each country, we will be able to show that we care about the vassal states and want to help to improve their situation. That and they will be trained by our agents, which will thus improve our influence over their forces. With this we will get better educated people in the leading ranks as well a better bond with the other member states in the Union.''

It sounded quite amazing in Meisa's ears and she was pleased. She glanced at the paper and thought about it. She wouldn't need to ask about the costs. Introducing the new system would cost something, but not too much. They also could afford a lot with their growing profit. One that had grown a bit due Hisoka managing to get a discount on the trade import from the Cloud. She could use that money to invest and make the plan of the War Academies happen. ''Thank you, when will you begin?''

Zakito sighed as he slowly rose up from his seat. He made a short bow towards Meisa. ''I'll see it done now with the permission of the Hokage.'' Zakito told her as he would straighten his back. And in return Meisa would return a slight bow with her head back towards Zakito. ''You have the respect as the gratitude of the Hokage, Zakito-sama.''

Walking through the entrance gates, into the arena, Hayate found himself staring out at a strange looking field. Two small plots of land were separated by a wide... river of sorts, and connected by a large wooden bridge. Approaching the bridge, it appeared like his opponent would enter from the opposite side of the river, meaning they would need to start their fight on the bridge, or on the water... Hayate wasn't overly fond of taking a risk by starting on the river, and so he stepped onto the first wooden planks, wondering what lay ahead...

Kaya had her hands behind her back as she entered the arena. She took a moment to glance around and felt the excitment and rush. This time even more than the previous round. With a growing smile she turned her head until she caught sight of her soon to be opponent. With a calm pace, she approached the bridge. With a quick look at the water, her mood even rose more. Water would be an advantage for her. The bad part was the wooden bridge. Wood was a bad conductor, unless it was damp. But as soon as she placed a foot on the bridge to approach her opponent, Kaya noticed it was lacquered. In short, the wood would not be a reasonable conductive material. ''Haaaai!'' Kaya said in a cheerful manner. She took a moment to take in her opponent and then smiled as she cocked her head to the left. ''You look adorable, what is your name?~''

Somewhat taken aback at his opponent's cheerful nature, Hayate paused, one eyebrow raising slightly. [i]I thought these exams were supposed to be a serious matter...? Oh well...[i] He thought to himself, offering his opponent a polite smile. "My name is Hayate. And yours?" He asked, keeping his tone polite.

''Kaya Irozaki, cutie.'' She winked at him as she then frowned. ''Ha-ya-te.'' She mumbled it very slowly and frowned again. Then a playful smile erupted on her lips as she winked at him again. ''I think I'll stick with cutie. Have any problem with that?'' She asked, in quite a polite fashion. The referee was keeping his distance and Kaya had a good hunch why. The match would begin once both were ready, but in her opinion it was much more fun to 'talk' a bit with this Hayate person.

[i]Cutie?[i] Hayate thought, his eyes widening slightly. These opponents were getting stranger and stranger... Not sure what to say, Hayate reached up and scratched the back of his head, a little nervous. "Uh... I suppose if you must... Though I prefer Hayate..." He mumbled the last part, looking away towards the referee. [i]Save me.[i] He silently begged, hoping the referee would start the match before he got stuck in more awkward conversation that he wouldn't know how to deal with.

When Hayate said he prefered his own name, Kaya moved her arms in front of her chest. Folding them, she pouted. ''That is rather a shame. Why would you ruin my fun? Here I thought we could just develop a nice friendship instead of just seeing each other as enemies. Is that too much asked?'' Kaya asked, lowering her head a bit. Glancing up with her eyes, she battered her eyes, waiting for what Hayate would say.

His eyes pleading with the ref, to no avail, Hayate slowly turned back towards Kaya with a sigh. "Sorry, I didn't mean to offend you at all. I just..." Sighing again, Hayate lowered his head to avoid looking at Kaya. "I... guess cutie is fine..."

Lowering her arms, Kaya then clapped as she giggled. ''Excellent! Excellent!'' She then lowered her hands as a smirk returned on her lips. ''So this is the start of something, isn't it? What do you say if we meet up after this match?'' Kaya suggested with a sweet tone as she leaned a bit forward. There was some distance between her and Hayate and it actually irked her. Taking a step towards him, her smirk turned into a playful smile.

Had the match started already, Hayate would have already had a kunai in his hand when Kaya stepped towards him. It felt... strange... But, the referee had yet to start the match, and so Hayate simply stood still. "Uh..." The attitude of Kaya was making Hayate feel slightly uncomfortable, but he didn't understand why. At first he wanted to simply start the match and be done with the talking, but... Kiyomi had told him that he needed more friends, and it seemed like this girl wanted to be friends... Sighing inwardly, Hayate looked up, attempting a polite smile. "I suppose we could, if... if you'd like?"

''I would love it, cutie.~'' Kaya answered him on the same sweet tone as before. For a few moments she simply stared at Hayate, before taking a step back again. ''I suppose we should start then? A shame, I would like to learn more about you, cutie.'' Taking another step back the playful smile stayed on Kaya's face as there was a glint growing in her eyes. She feeling the exictment and rush of the coming battle already. ''But that will have to wait now, won't it?~''

Seeing his opponent step backwards and begin to prepare herself, Hayate breathed a sigh of relief. The talking was over now, he could get back to what he was more familiar with. Had he been a little more comfortable with talking to people, Hayate may have used this time to try and find out more about Kaya's fighting style, and her chakra nature. As it was, however, Hayate was not that good at talking to new people in such a friendly manner.

Settling into a readied stance, Hayate felt a sense of calm come over him. The fight was about to start, and he knew what he needed to do.

''A good day little nephew,

I hope you're doing alright. So far my travels through the countryside have been refreshing as well quite exciting.
Need to ask how is your mother? Is she still sick or is she doing better? I have heard rumours about that something had gone wrong in Kirigakure and hope that the both of you are doing fine.
To continue, I have been to some islands and they are just like what I had imagined. Much like our own island with Kirigakure, but I am wondering if there are any slight differences. Would be very fun to search for them, no matter how small, right?
Know what I might plan a trip to the Nagi Island. I highly doubt that they will have much of a different culture or manners than us, but seeing I haven't been there and am on a trip anyways, I think that you all won't mind it. Not?
The thing is that I am quite enjoying this. I help some simple folk with my knowledge in herbs and medicines and often get a place to stay in return. Quite convenient, ain't it?
Status furthermore isn't much interesting. I will continue to write you, dear nephew. Take care and watch out to not get into trouble.

Yours truly,
Nina.

It has been about a few days since Tora had departed from Kirigakure. The moment she was notified by Origami that Rika has left to go for Amegakure for the chuunin exams, she knew it was her chance. After getting a promise from Origami that she will ensure her team will be kept occupied in the meanwhile, she went and left.

Now she was on a cart that was slowly traveling in the Fire country. She did not take anything to indicate that she was a shinobi, meaning she had no weapons or her headband on her. She also kept her chakra suppressed, at the case any shinobi might suddenly come up and ask questions. Until they arrived at their destination, she wanted to be sure that everything will be fine and quiet. Tora had been traveling for over a day with an elderly merchant, who kept roaming the fire country, going between different settlements to offer the supplies he knew how to get best, which was different kinds of herbs and cloths. When Tora joined him, she suggested that she will help him with carrying things around and also learn how to be a good merchant.

The merchant now made the horse go and move to the side of the dust road, where it stopped. Getting off, Tora looked around. It was one of the main roads leading towards Konohagakure, but still far enough so the village was not seen "The shinobi of Konoha told me that I cannot sell items too close to their gates. Its either within the village or from a certain distance out of it, to ensure people wont use my little cart as a possible 'way to hide among many others'." The elderly merchant said, and Tora nodded, understanding why they did so. The merchant went and fed the horse a bit while Tora started to properly set up the cart. She also observed the area around in the meanwhile, trying to see if she can spot any indication of shinobi or ANBU around.

About 10 minutes later, the cart now looked a lot more like a stall, and the merchant sat down on a chair which was was previously in the cart. Tora took a crate from the cart and placed it on the ground before sitting on it "How do you know people will come through here?" She asked him, pretending to be curious, and the elder merchant smiled before pointing at the direction they had come from "Watch." He said before standing up and taking a step forward. About a minute later there were a few people that were approaching saw the elder merchant, who gave them a friendly smile before taking another step forward and beginning to talk to them, giving them his sales pitch.

Slightly rolling her eyes, Tora took another glance around. There wasn't anyone around at the moment, so now was her chance. Closing her eyes, she focused on the dragon seal, which was hidden in a weird looking tattoo. She then focused on someone specific. The reason she had made her way over there. Of course, her summon had informed her that the girl had changed her name after he gave her the scroll "Kiyomi Sato-Hon. Come to outside of Konohagakure, about 5 kilometers into the south-eastern road from the main gate." Tora would use her own voice, but she would know that Kiyomi will understand this is an instruction from someone higher ranked than her in Dragon Lotus, seeing the voice would come directly into her head. She didn't want to let Kiyomi until she arrived face to face with her.

Sitting on a chair, Kiyomi looked with a focused expression at the map. There were several pieces standing on the map, each being different to another. Gently, she picked up one piece, that was set next to the map and placed it on a position. Just as she was to turn her head at to continue reading from a book that laid open, Kiyomi heard the voice of Tora. Slightly frowning, she took a moment before she would focus on replying back. ''And for what would one want me to come out so far from the Leaf?'' Kiyomi politely asked back as she would close the book. The history book about the Great War would have to wait until later. Kiyomi crossed her arms as she looked at the map again. There was something else she would want to add, but decided to wait and see what the response would be.

Smiling, Tora nodded a bit and opened her eyes. She figured Kiyomi won't just come. She was a Jinchuuriki for the leaf, after all "You are the only person I could talk to about what is the best way of suffocating someone in a fish's body before taking away their special sword. As well as how to survive being eaten by the sword." She replied, figuring that seeing she had mentioned such a specific detail that Kiyomi might understand who she was.

For a moment Kiyomi almost smirked, but there was a thought that drifted up. ''Am I now? I swore that there were two others. One that died by a disease and one other that doesn't speak to many. I wonder if the death can truly speak or if it is just me having a big imagination.'' The tone grew a bit colder. She didn't mind to talk to Tora, but there was some bitter gale drifting up by the thought of that she had been deceived. Why hadn't she been told the truth? Only a moment later did she manage to push away the somewhat 'childish' thought. She had done the same, in service of the Hokage. It would be unfair to judge another for what she had done lately as well. ''So, may I know a name of with whom I am speaking with?''

"Tora Hatake. And I like to believe dead people can talk. After all, we both know someone who previously came back from the dead. The one who gave us the option to make contact this way." She replied before looking at the merchant, who now approached the cart and started showing the people the different kinds of herbs that he had there "You know, I've heard that there is a cart with many types of herbs, and its always useful to have various types of herbs at reach. Who knows when you might suddenly be poisoned with a lethal poison." Tora added.

There was a period of silence before Tora would hear Kiyomi's voice replying back. ''The dead can talk, I suppose that is true. Though I think that there is a slight difference for who are dead and those have been dead.'' Rising up from her chair, Kiyomi frowned as she stared at the map. She had placed the pieces on the map to give the idea how the situation was at the date around the second year of the war. Around her birth. ''As for poison, I am not very knowledgeable in that field. Are you proposing something or merely suggesting that I should watch for something?'' Kiyomi asked back, wanting to be sure of what the other wanted. She remembered the words Jinkama told her, that she couldn't just trust anybody who was part of the Dragon Lotus.

So now Kiyomi was being cautious. That was always a good trait to have, especially with this kind of group "I was merely refering to Ino Namikaze's death. You did try to heal her and saw there was a poison in her body that you could not get rid of, right? But I guess I can stop with this foolishness." She said before standing up from the crate. She approached the front of the cart and took a small box from it before turning to look at the elder merchant "I'm going to go for a little stroll, alright? I'll be back in a bit." She told him, getting a quick nod in return as he kept presenting the herbs to the people, as a couple more came, interested to see what the merchant had to offer.

After beginning to walk into the forest next to road and in the direction of Konohagakure, she let out a quick sigh "You are already aware of who I really am. I wish to speak to you face to face, if you would be willing. If not, I'd understand." She said and kept walking in silence, wondering how much would be enough.

Resting her hands at the corner of the table, Kiyomi glanced over at the west front. Raising her eyebrows, she started to think. It wasn't that she really did mind it and she was for a fact even happy. But there was still the fact she couldn't just walk out and do what she would like. There were two parties she wanted to help, serve and be loyal to. However, meeting up or allowing Tora to move in Konohagakure would be too dangerous for her. Even if she had changed name or almost anything else, if she would be discovered then it wouldn't be pretty. Thinking on the matter, Kiyomi decided to react back. ''You can try at your own risk to enter Konohagakure. Try to look for the smallest market place at the Merchant's district. But do not attempt to go any further. I will see if I can meet you there.'' Kiyomi replied. She thought about her decision one final time. She could decide to not show up and just try to forget about 'Tora' wanting to meet her.

Then again, she saw no danger if a civilian would like to strike a conversation with her. The ANBU that followed her wouldn't likely see any harm in it. At least, as long nothing out of the ordinary would happen. Turning around, Kiyomi would start to head out.

Sighing, Tora shook her head a bit. She knew that if they checked the records then they would find that Tora previously entered the village as a civilian, which would only make things better, but she thought that it could be a bit of a risk. At the same time, she wanted to make sure Kiyomi is fine with her own eyes, and she made it clear that she cannot just leave Konohagakure. Looking back, she turned around and headed back to the cart, where the merchant was now sitting back at the chair, giving change to people who purchased a few herbs "Will it be fine if I had to Konohagakure for a bit? a friend of mine is there and she works at a stall there, and I'd like to go and say hey." She asked, and after the people left, the merchant looked at her and thought for a moment "Sure, that will be alright. Just be back here before sunset. I'll need your help putting things back in their place." He said, and she replied with a nod before heading away along the road.

"I'll let you know when I arrive at the marketplace in Konohagakure. You may choose where exactly we'll meet. But I assume I'll be there in about an hour or so." She said, not wanting to run and draw suspicion, so she decided to walk the way there.

Waiting for some time, Kiyomi was walking around. She noticed that there was still some work being done at the newest wall, but that ththere were already control posts and guards. It wasn't a trouble for her to pass them and enter the Merchant district. Dressed in a more casual garb, she did had her own katana sheathed in the scabbard, strapped to her back. Looking around, she couldn't see the face of Ino. For some reason she was expecting to see the woman, probably just standing and waiting for her. But after a few moments, she saw no face that was close to the one she had been looking for. Heading to the place she had described, Kiyomi entered the small plaza. There were less stands than at the others, but in exchange it was less busy than the other places in the district. Walking towards a bench, Kiyomi decided to sit down and wait for some time.

Tora had managed to arrive at the gates after 40 minutes or so, and was then checked by the security there, which appeared to be more tightened than what it originally was. Due to the fact she had no weapons or a headband on her, and that her chakra activity appeared to be so low, the guards decided to let her in, deeming her to be nothing more than a civilian that is incapable of performing any kind of jutsu. Going inside of Konohagakure, Tora couldn't help but feel a bit odd once more. It appeared that every time she was there she felt like it, due to being unsure if she should even call it her home or not. After pushing the feeling aside, she headed to the market. A few minutes later she was there and started looking around, trying to find someone who suited the description her summon had previously given her.

After going through the market and into the small plaza, Tora had begun wondering if Kiyomi never came. She walked slowly through the plaza, passing by a few benches which people sat on. Suddenly she noticed something and turned to look back. A girl who suited the description sat in a bench on her own. So she was waiting for her there. Walking to the bench and sitting down next to Kiyomi, she scretched her arms before speaking "It's a nice day. I wonder if people are still fishing sharks." She said before lowering her hands and placing them on her legs. Kiyomi would notice that the voice was that of Ino, and not the one she previously heard.

''It might be a nice day, but I am afraid that I hold no knowledge of more maritime activities. Though I do like some sushi.'' Kiyomi calmly replied. She looked at the calm place, in comparison with the others. Glancing sideways at Tora, she couldn't really see much of 'Ino' in her. The voice was the only thing that assured Kiyomi that she was the one. That and the specific line of course. ''But are you a fisher or somebody who just trades in them?'' Kiyomi politely asked, crossing her arms over each other. It was strange to talk to Tora, who was Ino, like this. Though she didn't look like her, it was still her and Kiyomi wasn't sure if she could call Tora by her name.

"Lets just say that I once very much enjoyed seeing someone eat raw shark. But that was over two years ago." She said before looking at Kiyomi once again. The girl's appearance didn't change too much, but it was clear that it was different "I'm Tora." She decided to introduce herself so that Kiyomi will be able to do the same and then they will have less trouble with talking to each other. She also looked around and saw shinobi patrolling from time to time, making it very clear the security around had become better.

For a second she stared at the hand. Was this how some had felt when she had came back? Slowly Kiyomi raised a hand of her own and shook that of Tora's. ''Kiyomi.'' She replied. Pulling her hand back, she clenched it into a fist as she threw a glance at the few nearby stands. ''Is that so? Intriguing feat then. I personally haven't ever eat shark in my life, but I suppose that eating one raw isn't as delicious as it sounds like.'' Briefly Kiyomi thought back to that fight. Now she started to wonder why she had never tried to eat sushi, made of shark.

Shrugging a bit and putting her hand back on her leg, she couldn't help but smile a bit at the thought of that fight. She then took out a small box from her pocket and looked at it "I don't know about the taste, but I heard that shark meat uncooked can be bad." She said before looking back at Kiyomi "I don't suppose you know anyone by the name of Lilia, do you? Because I came here to see her and give her something." She said, knowing Kiyomi will understand what she meant.

For a moment Kiyomi stared at the small box. Then her eyes looked at Tora's. ''I don't know any living person that goes by that name.'' She told Tora with a serious tone. She wanted to add something, to say something else to make something clear. But she decided against it. It wasn't like she didn't want Tora to be around or to show that she cared. What was bothering Kiyomi was something else. ''I am sorry, but no. I am glad that you came to see me, but I can't accept a gift if it is meant to be for somebody that holds a different name.'' After the reply, she felt odd. A bit prideful. Yes, that was probably the way to put it.

Looking at Kiyomi, she couldn't help but let out a sigh. Sometimes the girl was a bit naive, even with everything she went through "If you can't tell when I'm using your old name for cover in case anyone is listening in, then you still have things to learn. How did you think I found you if I never saw you like this, or how did I know your name?" Tora replied through the dragon seal before looking at the box and removing her hand from the top of it. On the top was craved the surnames 'Sato-Hon'. She them put her hand back before letting out a fake yawn "I see." She said in a fake disappointed voice before looking around again. With all of the shinobi around, she hoped Kiyomi would understand why she wanted to be careful. If anyone suddenly saw a strange woman ask for sitting for Kiyomi and suddenly giving her something, it would appear suspicious.

Slowly, Kiyomi clenched her right hand into a fist again before flexing her fingers. She briefly looked up to the sky, acting like she was trying to see if it was going to rain or not. ''I guess that I am a bit different than you on that part.'' She told Tora back through the seal as she placed her hands on her legs before letting out a soft sigh. ''If you are so cautious, so careful then why using my old name when my current and true name is more known? If you want to play it safe nor bring my mood down, please don't bring up that name again.'' Kiyomi was wondering if she should continue the conversation. A bit disappointed by the last reply of Tora, she decided that it was just that the woman wanted to be careful. With the increased security, it wasn't really anything strange. One wrong move and she would be likely captured. And to protect herself, Kiyomi would have to side against Tora if something like that would happen. ''If you want to give me a gift, but want to be careful lets do it in a different way, yes? I am being watched by ANBU and now that you have spilled out my old name, it is safer to disguise it and hide it somewhere. Outside of Konohagakure.''

"I dont want you to leave Konoha and be watched even more and then get caught taking this. I have a better place in mind." She replied and then turned to properly look at Kiyomi "I think I might be able to find my friend at a nearby park or garden. Do you know where is the nearest one to, what did she say it was called..." Tora pretended to try and remember what the name was "I think it was a teahouse's name. Not quite sure. She said that if I won't find her in the market place, then she will most likely be there." She said and then stood up, as if to get ready to head in whatever direction Kiyomi was going to tell her to go, though Tora hoped she would understand where she was aiming to go to.

Almost had Kiyomi stared with mouth open at Tora. If her old name hadn't been one to raise suspicioun, then she was doing it right now. ''I wouldn't know.'' She rose up from the bench as she made a short nod towards the woman and turned her back to Tora. ''I bid you a good day.'' With a short gesture of her left hand, as a goodbye wave, she would walk away from Tora. ''I am not going to pick it up. Listen, right now you are bringing us both in danger.'' Kiyomi's voice sounded like a hiss, as she was getting nervous. Though she looked calm on the outside, her heart was racing inside. ''I have my methods and they work better than what I assume you will do. A method that will not require any of us both to try something that is risky.'' Kiyomi wondered if Tora had forgotten about her summonings. That was what her idea. To let Mister Usagi pick up the gift and return later back with it. A well formed excuse for why she would send the rabbit would be to send a message to the Moto Estate or anything else. If it would even raise any questions for why she would use one of her summonings to do such a task.

Not replying this time, Tora merely let a wave back before pretending to ask a couple of other people on where she can find the location of that park. After walking away from the market for a bit in that direction, she stopped in front of a small ramen place and went inside. Ordering herself a bowl of ramen, she ate from it slowly while thinking on what Kiyomi's method might be. She figured the most likely one would be a summon, as she had that ferret which could probably slip past anything with ease. However, due to the fact she didn't know how well Kiyomi was watched, seeing she was a Jinchuuriki and even more, according to the tone of speech from her voice, she figured there was a chance that even Kiyomi's summons would be watched and anything they might bring to her would be checked.

Finishing the bowl of ramen, she paid for it before leaving and beginning to head in a different direction from the park. She went to the postal office which was a short walk away and then waited in the short line for a few minutes before approaching the counter "Hello, I came across this strange box about an hour ago, and I noticed there was a name on here, which sounds just like the name of Kiyomi Sato-Hon. Could you send it to her? I fear she might've forgotten it there and seeing she is our Jinchuuriki, I think it would be best if anything that belongs to her will be with her." She said and gave a smile to the clerk who took the box from her and passed it to a shinobi behind him before telling Tora that she will still need to pay for it to be delivered. Nodding, she took out the money needed and paid before thanking the clerk and heading out of the postal office.

Several minutes later she was at the village gates, and she looked back for a moment. She was certain there shouldn't be anything to keep Kiyomi from receiving the box, seeing there was literally no traps or any kind of weapon or such in there. She smiled when she thought about the content of the box before passing through the security once more. The box was was already checked when she went inside, and was confirmed to be safe, so she saw no reason why anyone would prevent it from reaching Kiyomi.