[IC] Naruto : The Rise of The New Generations

[AlterNathan]

Hyuuga Ezuri

Everyhting that happened after Ezuri had his craftily placed water clones happened in a blur. and everything before it as well. One moment he was up in the trees then down, killing a few bandits on the fly, then founding himself in a tight spot and later completely surrounded, just before he switched places with a water clone to catch some breath. the flashy movement he made while doing it made most bandits not noticing it, except for the damned slinger that broke his leg. luckily he was saved from a second attempt by his team, mostly Kensuke. Now he found himself between shisen, Hayate an angry ninken and Hayate's two shadow clones, Kensuke was somewhat further away.

Hayate did a good job defending them all, Shisen, Arashi, Ezuri and even himself, they were all injured. Ezuri assisted Hayate as best as he could, getting himself up on one knee and one hand, he used my free hand throwing kunai and shuriken at bandits charging at them. It was too bad Ezuri could not do anything else to help the others and himself out. He felt useless. He ripped a piece off his clothing and tied this around his leg to prevent himself from bleeding out, regardless he needed some treatment soon.

[Roran Hawkins]

Konoha Team 7
Kensuke Nimatsu

As the bandits kept their distance, not daring to try Kensuke's skill with the sword after having been hit by his killing intent, Kensuke checked on how his team was doing. At a quick glance it seemed as if they were standing their ground, but he saw Hayate's leg envelopped in metal, Shisen grasping her leg, and Ezuri kneeling while bandaging his own leg, and felt a feeling of disappointment. These were bandits. Not shinobi. He didn't know exactly what had been going on, but as far as he could tell his team had failed the most basic laws of working in a team. Working together. Only now that they were wounded, on the verge of collapsing, they started performing as a team. A moment long he hesitated, and decided to help the genin. Originally he was only supposed to guide the team, and not do the mission for them, but in this case letting them fight the mission would probably permanently cripple one of them.

After a quick estimation he concluded he was fighting half of the bandits, and they were fighting the other half. Once he'd have dealt with this bunch, he'd go help the others. A sound in front of him put his awareness to the test and made him parry a spear as he swirled around to face those in front of him, noticing they gathered courage and charged him at the same time, intending to drive him against a tree and slaughter him like they did to Ezuri. Frowning he stored chakra in his blade, a large amount, and executed a stronger version of his Falcon Blade attack, and released it in a large horizontal sweep, sending a devastating air cut towards the approaching bandits, one that travelled as fast as he swung his blade. The bunch of non-shinobi warriors stood no chance as most were mutilated by the lightning fast attack, since the short range prevented them from doing much against it. The slinger stone sent towards him found its trajectory altered as Kensuke parried the stone, and coated a shuriken in wind chakra, sending it right through the man's chest, into the tree behind him.

The battlefield on his end was filled with screaming as the men bled out, most having been entirely or nearly entirely cut in half by their lower chests, but there were two who had escaped relatively unscathed, and Kensuke leapt at them, taking both down in two quick sword strikes, leaving the rest to bleed out.

Turning towards the group the genin were fighting, he leapt forwards using wind chakra to propell him even faster and used his momentum along with the flying sparrow technique to land right next to the group of genin, cutting the man with the sickle in half, before continuing the motion he had began with his sword to fluently parry a spear aimed at Ezuri. He made a circular movement with his sword, dragging the spear along with it before grabbing it right after the tip, and giving a strong yank on it, making his opponent fall over as he held on to the weapon.

[AlterNathan]

Fujiwara Takeshi

The sixteen year old boy dashed out of the door early in the morning, leaving his place a mess. He did not care to clean up after breakfast. No, he was way to excited to do that. Today was his first day as full-fledged Kirigakure Genin. Takeshi tapped his forehead protector and nodded with a smile, all in place, he was ready to go. Arriving at the designated training field he noticed no-one was there yet, he looked at the sun just peeking out over the horizon, of course no-one was here yet, it was way too early. The last remaining Fujiwara headed back into the village to kill some time. He wandered around through streets both broad and narrow and sipped some tea at his favorite dango shop. After quite some time he decided to head back out to the training field. He decided to take the rooftops. Jumping from rooftop to rooftop, Takeshi had a nice overview of the village and its surroundings, at least, if he got up one of the taller buildings. As the training field came into sight he saw two people already standing there, he got down from the rooftops and decided to walk the last part.

[GlitchyBugger]

Kumogatarui Dobustu
Training Field 3

Oddly enough, someone was watching Naoto and Tora from the trees, quietly peering down at the pair as they shared names. So this was her sensei and her team-mate... She didn't like it, the social interaction, she just wanted to be accepted without the awkwardness of greetings and introductions.

Hatake-sensei seemed nice enough, kindly posture and pretty simple style, probably not too judgemental of others so she had that going for her, it meant she wouldn't have to be as scared of making a bad impression. But she was still unsure about her, nor was she sure about the girl on her team. Long dark hair, like herself, maybe not that hard to get along with if she was similar enough... Maybe... She looked to be rather gentle compared to Hatake-sensei, this Naoto girl, apparently dedicated enough to be willing to train outside of missions and other team-based tasks like training sessions...
There was a spiky-haired boy coming their was as well, he seemed rough, maybe rude. But she'd spotted him roaming around the village earlier, so he couldn't be that bad, right?

She gently placed the tips of her fingers against a sturdy branch and waited a moment before she felt the webbing connect, then she lowered herself down from that branch, Only a few metres away from the two. "Greetings Hatake Sensei, Naoto... kun... No, not kun... Senpai?" The strange girl, Kumogatarui, said as she lowered within their sight and her feet touched the ground, allowing her to release the webs she'd used to come down, she'd heard the other two give their introductions already so knew more or less what to say. "I am Kumogatarui Dobustu, I am 15 years of age... I don't mind what you call me and I like looking after my pet spiders." She then dipped into a formal bow, waiting for them to respond.
______________________________________
Niji Yakei
Kumogakure

Niji was waiting, sitting with a pensive expression on her face at the cliff she'd fought at a while ago... It felt like forever ago now, but she remembered what happened here clearer than day, fighting that anti-shinobi samurai whilst falling down the cliff when trying to escape. She felt wrong since then, having killed him for the sake of others and the ideals of a culture that thrived on conflict... He'd been right that all shinobi were good for was killing one another.

Since then Niji had acquired a new weapon, a sword forged and made the wrong way around, the blade being within the curve and the blunt side being on the outside of the curve. A sword that was literally reversed, the only way it allowed for killing was if she chose to turn it and kill someone, now she would merely bruise flesh and break bones with it, those were at least survivable. She didn't feel good about being a shinobi anymore, she didn't want to be one anymore, but she would carry on because what else could she do now? She couldn't just go to a normal life, she wasn't capable of a normal civilian life, she was trained for fighting, for killing... For being a pawn of a village's leader, fighting in their stead and going to war at their behest.

Even the books she was once so invested in were proving to be unable to distract her from the reality of her situation, she kept reading them over and over though as it was habit now, but aside from when she read the intimate parts, she didn't feel a lot from it. She was still dwelling too heavily on the words of the last person she'd willingly slain, it had really broken her resolve, she was even starting to slacken in training and sometimes just flat-out avoiding her sensei, Shinichi.

Did he even understand her dilemma? Or would he just offer a drink to help her forget all her problems? Who even knew anymore, Kamiria was kept at home to be looked after by her family and Niji couldn't really think of anyone else she knew who would want to deal with her like this. She could probably disappear if she wanted to, she could go rogue and try to find something good to live for instead of this village.
Not that she would. What could she do to get by day-to-day outside of the village, visit smaller villages and do work for a place to stay? It would be a waste of what she was, perhaps she could just go on a hunt for other rogues, remove them from the world until she bit off more than she could chew. There was no use thinking about it, she didn't have the guts to do something like that, to work herself to death hunting down shinobi whom were a threat to everyone. She wouldn't, too selfish for that.

Quietly, Niji just lowered her head and looked down the cliff with a sigh, despite everything this place had meaning to her now, it was her quiet place where nothing happened and where she wouldn't be bothered by anyone.

"A new purpose would be nice... I can't just say I wont kill anyone unless I can convince others that it's a good ideal. I mean it's not pacifism, but it's pretty close."

[Little Alice]

Flashback!

A mission in the past!
A few months before the actual start of this IC.

The mission that changed a lot,
Hayate (Chromehound) and Kiyomi (Little Alice)

Part I

Summary :
Kiyomi arranges a mission for her and Hayate, briefing him that this will be a special kind of mission.[/center]

Part I!

Leaning against a tree, Kiyomi had her eyes closed. A regular looking katana sheathed in a scabbard, on her back, she had her arms crossed and was actually not dressed in her jounin atire. Instead, in her Hokage Apprentice garb and having two shoulder bags at her feet. Waiting, she was wondering where he was? Though he had enough time, Kiyomi was actually wondering if Hayate would come on time. Then again, he would know better than to come too late. She had made sure to let him know it was very important he would be on time.

Adjusting his backpack once again, Hayate made his way to the field where he was supposed to meet up with Kiyomi. She had told him that they would be taking a trip for a mission and hoped that he had packed appropriately for it. As Hayate approached the field he spotted Kiyomi resting against a tree. Smiling he walked towards her. "Good morning Kiyomi-sama. I hope that I am not running late."

Looking up, Kiyomi opened her left eye. A little smile crept on her lips. ''No, you're on time. We're running a bit short on time, so sorry but the briefing won't be about all the details I have. To start, I don't have that much details to share.'' Kiyomi told him, skipping the usual greeting and talk she enjoyed having with Hayate. It would just give the signal that she was very serious about the mission they would do together. ''That said, you're not allowed to talk about this mission. With nobody. If there is a person, maybe the Jounin commander, but nobody other than him. Got that?'' She asked him before she would continue on the briefing. It was pretty important he would keep this mission between them.

As Kiyomi grew serious Hayate paid close attention. So this mission was to be a secret one, interesting. His curiosity for this mission only increased as Kiyomi spoke. Understanding that she wanted a confirmation of his secrecy, Hayate nodded. "You have my word Kiyomi-sama. I will tell no one." His tone was serious and he hoped that she believed him. He would never do anything that would compromise Kiyomi, and so he would keep his word, even under the threat of death.

''Good. Cause we won't be allowed to wear any headbands this time. Nothing that could trace us back to Konohagakure. Neither can we rely on any reinforcements or such when we're in a pin.'' Kiyomi continued after Hayate had confirmed he would keep this between them. There was still a little bit of doubt, but Kiyomi decided to trust him on this. After all, he had proven himself to be allowed to come with her on this mission. ''The mission is actually to put it very simple an assassination mission. We need to go in and kill a certain target. Nothing out of the rare things. The problem is that we've a limited information and the target is expecting us.'' Kiyomi told Hayate, waiting to see if he had any questions now.

Nodding again as she mentioned that they would not be allowed headbands or anything linking them to Konoha, Hayate thought about her words. So this was to be an assassination mission, huh, Hayate thought that there was some part of him that should have something against the idea of an assassination mission but as he thought about it he realized that he was fine with it. He trusted Kiyomi enough to know that anyone who she was targeting for execution probably deserved it for some reason. He smiled slightly as she mentioned that their target expected them. "They may know we are coming, but there is no way they could truly expect us. Not when we have you."

Kiyomi almost scoffed. If he would know better, then he would realize how that would have sounded. ''That is an advantage we have. They aren't expecting us, at all. Rather somebody else.'' Kiyomi told Hayate. Thinking about the other details, she pointed to one of the shoulder bags. ''I have packed in some supplies for a mission of around three days. Nobody will miss us as I have taken care of that. If somebody will somehow ask you where you have been, we have been training in an isolated place to hone your skills. After all, I am intending to permit you to join the Chuunin exams once they are upon us.'' Kiyomi told him on a serious tone, but gave the hint away she had faith in his skill, even while he was just a genin.

At the mention of Kiyomi permitting him into the Chuunin exams, Hayate's eyes widened in surprise. He had hoped to be able to join the exams, but he wasn't sure whether or not he was ready. To hear Kiyomi had faith in his abilities filled him with a flush of pride. "I have brought some things with me as well." He said, gesturing to his backpack. "I hope that it will be enough. I have nobody that would really miss me anyways so this should work well." Hayate let out a sad smile, waiting to see if Kiyomi had any more details to share.

So it was time to head out. Picking up a shoulder bag, she reached it out towards him. ''Then you may carry the lighter one. Just also remember to stay cautious at all time. You may realize more people will miss you than you can imagine.'' After saying that and giving him the shoulder bag, she took the remaining on and checked her weapons one last time. Then she glanced at Hayate. ''Oh, I forgot one thing. I need to be sure you're out cold. So we can do this either quickly or slow. Your choice.''

Grabbing the bag from her, Hayate swung it up over his shoulder. Adjusting the weight until it was comfortably balanced, he looked back at Kiyomi in time to hear her last comment. Wait, she needed to knock him out? Hayate hesitated slightly. He rubbed his jaw for a moment before grinning nervously. "Well... I suppose if this how it's gotta be I would prefer quickly." Hayate locked eyes with Kiyomi, waiting for the attack that would knock him out. A small part of him felt hurt that she didn't trust him enough with where they were going to keep him awake for it, but Hayate focused on the fact that she had chosen him for this mission. That had to show that she trusted him, even just a little. And Hayate put his faith in her once again, trusting that she had her reasons for keeping things so secretive.

Waiting for a second, Kiyomi raised her right hand, dressed in a fingerless glove. Gently she poked with her indexfinger against the forehead of Hayate, but kept her finger at the forehead of her friend and student. ''Don't worry. It will sting for a second.'' She told him before he would feel a zapping or rather stinging sensation rushing through his body. Her mastery of Lightning Release was showed in that second as she knocked him cold, but wouldn't allow him to fall on the ground, catching him. ''Embrace the darkness.~'' She whispered as the darkness would fall upon him.

---

Some time later,
Somewhere in the Kanashi Ocean.

Kiyomi sighed as she opened her eyes. Leaning against the big mast, with her back against it and holding her right hand over her cargo sack, she looked around. The ship was making good progress towards the island they were heading towards. Already they had managed to pass the Taro Island without any problem and so far, Kiyomi couldn't see any problem that would rise up. Patting the big sack next to her, she mumbled something. ''Wake up time, Hayate.'' Kiyomi said with a rather amused tone as she opened the sack further. Knowing it would be bad if she would seal off the sack completely, she always had left it a bit open.

Hayate woke up as light spilled over his face. His whole body felt numb and as he tried to stretch out his stiff muscles he realized that his movement was restricted. Everything around him was dark except for the shaft of light coming from an opening above his head. Shifting his body slightly, Hayate moved his head closer to the hole. "Am... uh, am I gonna be stuck in here much longer?" He asked hesitantly, squinting his eyes against the bright light from outside whatever it was he was stuffed in.

''If you keep asking such stupid questions, I might consider that.'' She asnwered back, still amused as she looked around. The sailors were given new instructions as they were clearly nearing the island. However, instead of a port or a dock, they were heading towards a beach. Scoffing, Kiyomi glanced at Hayate. ''You did snore and almost caused some troubled. It was hard to convince you were a sack of rice when I was at a port, trying to get you onboard of the first ship.'' She told him.

Hayate smiled at her answer. Stifling a small laugh he replied. "Well I have to say, it is much harder to control myself when I am unconscious. I must be one ugly sack of rice though." Realizing that he was probably going to be inside the sack for at least awhile longer, Hayate adjusted himself until he was in a slightly more comfortable position. At least this way he wasn't straining anything. "Sorry if I caused any trouble for you." He added quietly.

''Don't be too sure about that. To be honest, I suspect..'' She paused as the amusement vanished from her tone. Though her facial expression didn't change, the tone clearly did. It was more grim and serious. ''Once the boat embars on the beach, they are going to hit us. My plan to try to sneak upon them failed and now we're going to pay a little price for it.'' Kiyomi informed Hayate before patting the sack. ''Then again, I doubt they will send a lot at us, so it might be a good warming up eh?''

Grumbling slightly as she patted him once again, Hayate heard her change in tone. "Shall I take them all down from here then?" He asked half jokingly. If they were going to have a fight on their hands, Hayate hoped that he'd at least be allowed out of the sack for it. It would be much harder otherwise. The numbness had mostly left his body, and despite the uncomfortable position he was forced to stay in, he was ready for whatever they were about to face.

Scoffing, Kiyomi rose up from her position on the deck of the ship. They were barely at a distance from the beach. ''I would suggest to be my guest, but you're my secret card in this mission. You know, being infamous has its disadvantages.'' She replied back, rolling with her left shoulder as she looked around. There was no sign on the beach of anybody. Neither an animal nor a person. For a moment, Kiyomi was tempted to summon Samehada as she was unable to do any sensory jutsu herself. ''Think you could come out of the sack if you want that. Just prepare yourself for what may come.''

Grinning, Hayate shuffled his way to the opening of the sack. Poking his head out he looked around briefly before looking at Kiyomi. "Did you kidnap me to go on a vacation? This looks like a nice beach to relax on." His tone remained amused, but his eyes were on the lookout for any threats. He hadn't spotted anything, but if his experience taught him anything it was that looks could be deceiving. "If you'd prefer, I could remain hidden in this old sack to surprise whoever it is that's greeting us. But I must say it would probably be nice to stretch out my legs a little." Hayate gave Kiyomi a small smile before looking around once again, checking his surroundings. It was a good thing he didn't get seasick, otherwise his journey in the sack would probably not have been as pleasant.

Kiyomi glanced at Hayate before looking back. The ship was just meters away from the beach. ''I think that won't work if they have any sensors or such. I kind of rely on the fact your clan managed to keep your blood line ability more or less secretive. Even I still am learning about it when we train or spar. That said, I doubt an outsider could know about it more than we do. So see its as a challenge.'' Kiyomi's eyes gained a little glint as a smirk crept on her lips. ''You only can use kenjutsu, earth release ninjutsu and such. Don't try to use your clan's jutsu until the time is dire or when I give the order for it. Got it?''

Hayate looked back at Kiyomi as she told him not to use his clan's ability. Well this would be interesting. He grinned and nodded. Pulling himself out of the sack, Hayate stretched out fully, the feeling of relief flowing through him. He stood beside Kiyomi on the deck of the boat and pulled out his staff. "So, no clan stuff. Got it. Well, this shall be fun then." The smile remained on his face as he twirled his staff around and settled in a ready position.

Nodding, Kiyomi watched the edge of the forest. The ship landed on the beach and she was expecting a welcome party at any moment. Only there was no fireball in the air lunging towards them. No people rushing towards the ship. For a second, Kiyomi looked over her shoulder. Nothing. ''That is odd.'' She mumbled, while the sailors started to begin their preparation. Frowning, Kiyomi placed her hands on her hips as she waited. ''I really was expecting a welcome party. After all, this whole island is mostly going to be hostile against us.'' She continued to mumble. ''At least, once they have figured for who we are doing this mission for.'' Then she glanced at Hayate. ''I suspose you haven't picked up a sensory jutsu when I wasn't around, have you now?''

"Ha, a whole island that wants to kill us... You really do bring me to the most fun places." Hayate grinned, looking sideways at her. Turning back to the shore he tried to make out any evidence of enemies, but he could see none. "I am sorry Kiyomi-sama but I do not know any sensory jutsu. If you get me on the ground I can use my hiding like a mole technique to make out any disturbances, but that's unfortunately about as much as I can do at the moment." Hayate gave her an apologetic shrug before turning back to look at the beach and the forest. "We could always do this the old fashioned way?"

''That would be amusing. But as much as I wouldn't mind to cause a good ol bonfire, I need to implore we keep a low profile. The longer we can avoid that the enemy knows we're here, the better.'' She told him. Walking to the edge, Kiyomi leaped over the reeling of the ship. Landing on the beach, she again glanced around. So far nobody. No other scent or weird sound was picked by her senses. Though even with her heightened senses, she wasn't sure. Pity that both of them weren't able to sense or see any chakra. ''Lets go. I think we would do better to find a suitable position to camp before the sun is down.'' Adjusting her shoulder bag, Kiyomi already started to walk towards the forest edge.

Following her to the edge, Hayate watched her leap down. Jumping over the railing himself, Hayate landed on the soft sand. He reached down with one hand, grabbing a handful of the sand and feeling it as it fell through his fingers. He smiled and looked back up as Kiyomi began walking towards the forest's edge. Jogging to catch up, Hayate fell into pace beside her. Regardless of whether or not they were walking into a trap Hayate felt safe knowing that he was with Kiyomi. It wasn't like he felt that he would need her protection at all, it was more a sense of being next to someone that he trusted with his life. He knew that they worked well together and had no fears that they would be able to overcome anything that came their way.

[LillyDove]

Team 15
A Not So Simple Test, Part One

Part One

Nazari stood in the dead center of the training field, her eyes casting this prolonged gaze out towards the way the people of Amegakure passed by and the way a certain genin would come through. She had the profile of the genin on home on her bed, having had read every last word down the smallest possible detail and memorized his appearance. A sigh escaped from her lips as she blinked after the prolonged gaze ended but she did not take her eyes off the area of entrance. Wondering how the genin would present himself to her, the first impression was always important and Shu Ibi would need to make a good one.

Shu silently walked into the clearing, his eyes scanning the area around him. Shu was dressed in standard shinobi equipment, his hair poorly kept back by his headband He quickly found Nazari, and slowly walked over to her, contempt obvious in his eyes. "Are you Nazari?" He asked evenly, slowly scanning her body as he spoke. "Because I expected someone more intimidating, and you're not intimidating in the least." A small smile crept across his face.

Not the slightest emotion crossed her face, there was no change in expression as she studied the young Shu Ibi and saw his attire as well as his poorly kept hair. Her hand whipped around to her Kunai as she hurled it at him at a deadly rate that he had no choice but to get out of the way of. "Act now, questions later" Nazari said simply as she had yet another kunai her hand and her other on the pan flute around her neck that would later be used to ensnare him in a genjutsu. Upon first impression, he took initiative to speak first but his abrpupt attitude was going to need to go although, she was quite blunt herself. Hurling the second the kunai at him at the same deadly rate, waiting for his reaction.

Shu reacted a bit too slowly to the first Kunai, and this mistake cost him a small cut on his left arm. At her words, he came to understand the situation better, and he skillfully dodged the second Kunai. Shu quickly preformed the hand seals for his water clone jutsu, the water rising out of his mouth. Shu's clone rushed at Nazari, unsheathing his scimitar as he ran, while the real Shu quickly drew a Kunai and threw it at Nazari.

Seeing his reaction to the first was a little delayed, she noted that he needed to work on his reaction time and noticed how he was able to recover in time to dodge the second one. Her eyebrows raised ever so slightly as she saw him perform the hand seals for the water clone jutsu,which was not a bad thing. Quickly doing her own hand seals for the Multi-Limb Prism Jutsu, she encased herself in water that took the form of several different limbs before they shot at Shu. The water would trap him if it touched him and envelop him before releasing them at her will, if he was not fast enough. Mean while, Nazari stood soundly in the prism that made his kunai useless as it bounced off the extremely dense water.

Shu's water clone continued to rush at Nazari, swinging it's sword at her prison of water. The real Shu began to run from the arms pursuing him. When the first arm was a foot away, Shu jumped backwards, the arm shooting out in front him. Unfortunately his plan fell apart when he slipped and fell onto his back. Shu lost his concentration, his water clone falling apart behind him. One of the hands reached him, and Shu was shocked to find himself trapped in a bubble of water, his struggling all but useless. He looked up at Nazari carefully, indignantly begging for escape.

Nazari watched as he attempted to escape the arm that had surrounded him with dense water nearly suffocating him but instead of letting the water become twice as dense, she ended the jutsu. The test was over, he did not pass nor did he fail it, he simply did average. But average would not suffice, she would have to work on honing his already present skills and make him even more in tune with himself. "Yes, I am Nazari... Do I seem intimidating to you now?" Nazari asked with a slight smirk.

Shu lay on the ground, gasping after being released from his prison, and shakily got to his feet. He caught his breath slowly, but once he caught his breathe straightening his stance, his legs barely holding his weight. "Just a bit...My name is Shu Iba," He said, but this time something new had entered his voice, "And you're apparently my Sensei," His voice had an edge to it, barely noticeable. His voice showed respect for Nazari. . . Something he rarely showed.

With a tilt to her head, she looked him over examining him and took note of his arm, it was bleeding. "Just a bit, huh? Well we can arrange for that to change, now can we?" Nazari asked with a faint smile. Brushing her hair back behind her shoulders, she walked over to him and placed a hand on his head, it was their for a moment before it was removed. "I am your sensei, your academy teachers.... Were not too keen on you becoming a genin.... I see no reason why they would be against it..." she said calmly. His profile had a lot of negative comments, but it was obvious none of them were valid.

He looked up at her evenly while she had her hand on his head his eyes showing he believed them to be equals, if not that she was superior. When she mentioned his teachers, he visibly flinched. "The teachers don't like me too much. Don't worry, the feeling is mutual," he said with a slight smirk. Shu looked her up and down again, but this time his eyes showed neither contempt or resentment. Nazari seemed to have gotten through to Shu.

Summary: Nazari and Shu meet at the training field for him to find himself attacked unexpectedly and the two face off for a bit. She uses the Multi-Limb Prism Jutsu to force him into submission before going to get his arm patched up and gains respect for his sensei.

[solokolos]

Team 15

A Not So Simple Test, Part Two

Part Two

Nazari sighed a bit at his statement, the teachers at the academy seemed to judge students on their ability to memorize a sentence or two but not on actual skill. "It is not that late but we should get that arm checked out... It looks like it hurts.. " Nazari said and started to walk towards the Amegakure Hospital. After he was patched up, the second part of the test would begin.

Shu listened closely, but when she mentioned his arm, he looked down at it, as if he had forgotten it had been cut. It was bleeding a bit more heavily then before, and after poking it a few times he agreed he should get it checked out. The nurse who treated him was quite rough, and he gasped a few times, but never called out. Shu's pain tolerance wasn't anything special. After his arm was tightly bandaged, he headed out of the hospital with Nazari. He down at her, and curiously asked, "What are we going to do now?"

She waited until they were back at the training field, in which she answered his question by picking up her panflute and playing the simple tunes that started the Midnight Predator Genjutsu. The sky darkened, and stars appeared as well as the moon, the temperature had dropped as well, making it colder. She then, performed the hand seals for the water clone before the real Nazari faded into the now darkened training field.

He watched keenly as Nazari preformed he genjutsu, and was shocked to see the sky darken above him. The darkness closed in around him, and he looked behind him to see if he could spot Nazari. He had seen her make the clone, and knew she had to be close by. Normally he would preform the Hiding in Mist technique, but his chakra reserves were already running low. Shu saw a small bit of movement to his right, and quickly looked in that direction. He froze, staring into the dark, but he couldn't see anything moving. He heard rustling to his left, and he snapped to look, but again nothing. Terror filled Shu, and he felt the weight of the darkness around him start to press in.

Her clone watched as he reacted to the genjutsu, seeing the fear and terror start to get under his skin. The real Nazari took note that they would need to work on that at a later time, wondering if he knew if it was genjutsu or not, it would seem so but one could never know. She watched as her clone ran at him in his current state of mind, knocking him down before vanishing into the dark to watch just as the real one threw a kunai at him that came close to actually hitting him but flew by him only an inch from his other arm. Trying to get him to act on something.

As Nazari's clone started to rush him, Shu reacted a bit too slowly, again, getting knocked down. As the clone ran into the distance, he felt a kunai whiz past his arm, but he couldn't find the source. He quickly stood up, looking around wildly, before an idea came to mind. Shu ran at a tree, jumping, and pushing off of it as his foot touched it. He grabbed a low hanging branch, and began to pull himself up, his freshly nurtured cut burning from the exertion. As shu pulled himself up he began to analyze the situation: Nazari was trying to test him, he could see that now, and right now she seemed to be playing on fear; Shu would break the rules of her test, and start to play on her fears. Shu stood on the branch, before jumping to another one that was close by, and sitting down. He focused his small amount of remaining chakra, and took the risk. Shu preformed the handseals for the Hiding in Mist technique, fog drifting from his mouth to slowly envelop the training field. His breathing turned heavy, and he knew he could only keep this up for a couple more minutes. He wondered if she had predicted this, as he sit silently on the branch.

The real Nazari observed silently, watching as he fell and got back up as it would appear it did not take much to spur him into action. Seeing him get onto a tree branch, analyzing the situation, both were good and she made a mental note to praise him for it after the test. Seeing the mist seeping out of his mouth as he performed the Hiding in the Mist Technique, hoping to conceal his location. His breathing being heavy gave it away easily, as she approached him silently from behind him and placing her hand on his shoulder. Ending the genjutsu as she did so, the last part of the test would begin in a minute once he caught his breath.

Summary:
Shu gets his arm patched up, and Nazari administrates the second test. The second test involves a Genjutsu that turns the sky black, and is meant to inspire fear into Shu. Shu is then attacked by a water clone, and a kunai barely misses him, before he climbs a tree, and uses his little remaining chakra to preform the Hiding in Mist technique. Afterwards Nazari ends the test by patting him on the shoulder, and ending her Genjutsu.

[LillyDove]

Team 15
A Not So Simple Test, Part Three

Part Three

Shu felt the pressure on his shoulder, and look behind and up at her, from his sitting position. "There you are," he mumbled, and released the technique. The fog fading away quickly. Shu stood up, and jumped lightly down from the tree, his landing careful. "You seem quite intent on killing me today," Shu joked as he caught his breath, and then he suddenly stiffened. He looked at her, and asked, "Are you just trying to see what jutsus I know?"

Unlike the previous times, she did not answer by acting but instead said "the last part of your test begins now." WIth that she unsheathed her katana and ran at him, this test would test his ability to fight up close with a weapon. She swung at him and allowed her arms to relax as the gel like substance of her katana hardened around her hands and swooshed past him, cutting a few stray hairs of his.

The sun glinted off his falling hairs, while Shu stood there, astonished. He came to terms with situation, and jumped back, quickly unsheathing his weapon. The scimitar shone in the restored light, and Shu took the initiative to run at Nazari. He did a quick swing a bit short, not making it all the way to her, but he had planned this. Shu continued the swing after he missed, and spun around to swing again, this time making sure his swing was on target. He silently hope she fell for the feint as his sword fell towards her.

Nazari noted how he reacted to that as well and made another note to praise him for recovering quickly and taking the initiative to attack with no need of assisstance. Allowing herself to be hit by the scimitar before using the hilt of her katana to knock him on his head easily, utilzing every part of her katana instead just one before bringing the blade to the back of his neck, only an inch away from actual contact.

A smile graced Shu's face as his blade made contact, but soon it was gone and replaced by a stunned look. His head spun when he was hit with her hilt, before she put the blade right behind his neck. Shocked by her skill, he went stiff as to not cut himself. "I think you've made your point," He said carefully, not too keen on being cut by her katana.

"And what point would that be?" Nazari asked calmly as she removed the blade from behind his neck. Putting her katana back in its sheath, she looked him over as it appeared that he was at his limits, his breathing heavy and sweat beads rolling down his arms and face. "The test is over" she said before continuing "your reaction time... Will be improved on and so will containing your emotions... This test was not pass or fail... It was simply to observe you and see where you needed more work on. Your recovery time.... was what I expected it to be... quick and swift... thats good." Nazari paused in her thought, deciding if she wanted to part ways now or later, deciding that he needed a break and something to eat, she sighed. "Now, are you hungry?" she asked.

He silently thanked her, glad to be done with the test. His blushed lightly when she called his recovery time swift, and he looked away awkwardly. When she mentioned food, he looked at her and nodded, "Yeah I'm starving. I didn't expect to almost die today, otherwise I'd have taken the time to write my will," he joked. As if to prove his point, his stomach growled loudly, and again Shu looked away, trying to ignore it. He hadn't eaten breakfast, and this seemed to prove it. In retrospect, he should have eaten, because it might have improved his results on Nazari's test. He came to the realization that if he had been fighting an actual enemy, he would be dead. Shu shivered, hoping he would be stronger before that time came.

"Well I cannot have you starving to death, now can I?" Nazari asked with a smirk. Patting him on the back a bit roughly, she began to walk with him towards the nearest resturaunt and asked for a table for two. Being seated near the door, she sat down and flipped through the menu as she tried to decide to what she wanted to eat. "Order what you wish to eat... Its on me" Nazari said as she called the waitress over to their table and ordered what she had decided on. Shu stumbled a bit from the unexpected pat on the back, but followed at her word. When they arrived at the resturaunt, Shu sat down slowly, and nodded when she said he could order what he pleased. After she recited her order, Shu looked up to the waitress, and said politely, "I'd like a Gyūdon," His poise flawless. It was obvious he could be polite when he wanted to be, and it could be almost taken as an insult the stark difference between how he was acting now, and how he had treated Nazari earlier.

Nazari waited for the waitress to leave before asking "what did you learn today, Shu?" Leaning forward a bit in his chair as if she was eager to hear his response and raised a single eye brow as she waited for him. Noticing how he treated the waitress, as well as how he treated her earlier, it seemed politeness was not a foreign concept to him after all. "I assume your attitude will change next time we practice?" Nazari questioned right before the waitress came with thier meals.

At her question, a mock thoughtful look crossed his face as Shu saw Nazari lean forward. "Don't underestimate Nazari-Sensei?" He questioned, almost jokingly. He leaned back, beginning to visibly relax in her prescence. He stared out the window, his eyes watching the small crowd hurrying to their destinations. Shu caught his own eye in the reflection, and a small look of distaste crossed his face as he looked back to Nazari. Upon her second question he sighed, and responded, "Yes, I will treat you with respect from now on, and I wont insult your strength." His voice was almost mechanical, and it was obvious he had said this before. Shu smiled politely at the waitress as she returned, and thanked her for his food. He silently picked up his chopsticks, and began to eat.

Upon hearing his response to her first question, a short abrupt laugh escaped her parched lips and people seemed to stop in shock of hearing it. Nazari barely laughed these days, her past a reminder of the hard times she endured before now but that was no matter. " Well we can also work on your answers" Nazari said as she shook her head. Beginning to eat her own her food slowly, not paying him any attention as she did so. In ten minutes, she was done and asked him "how do you know your food was not poisoned?" With a small smile, she stood up and went to pay for the meals, returning shortly. She did not sit back down, instead she looked at him and said "I expect to see you in the same exact spot as you were today." And with that, she took her leave.

At Nazari's question, Shu blinked in surprise. He was about to respond, when she started to walk away. He sighed, and when she returned and told him what she expected of him, he nodded. "I understand sensei," he responded, and slowly walked out the door, heading in the opposite direction that she was, torwards his house. Shu silently studied people as they walked by, wondering about their personal lives, and if he knew them, wondering how recent problems had resolved. He glanced down at the bandage on his arm, and a small smile cut across his face. Shu had a feeling he was going to enjoy having Nazari as a teacher. In the end the cut would fade, bruises heal, and what remained was what truly mattered.

Summary: Nazari gives the third and final part of the test that test his ability to fight up close with a weapon. The test ended with him submitting and her removing her blade, she states her observations and they go out to eat before parting ways.

[Gamer geek]

Shinichi Kyousuke – The Feelz

It was clear that Niji wasn’t home after Shinichi managed to make it through majority of the house without seeing any clue of her being there. Her parents would doing nothing special which suggesting to him that Niji was not there. Although he wasn’t going to give up on his hunt that easy. Shinichi exited the way he came in and was quickly back at it. For roughly half-an-hour he searched, jumping from roof top to roof top and going ally to ally. Of course he didn’t search extremely well with how fast he looked but it didn’t matter, she wasn’t in town it seemed like. Logically the best option was to progressively search further and further out of town.

Nearly another ten minutes and Shinichi already found what he was looking for. It didn’t take that long to reach the cliff side where nearly two years ago he and his squad escaped up and over. To his surprise he could see a young ninja standing near the top. Upon closer inspection and a few squinted eye glances he was able to make out the figure of Niji. Finally his search was over.

Shinichi took the longer way up, eventually making his way onto the reverse side of the cliff heading up a hill. The jounin soon found himself peeking through the tree line, just a few yards away from where Niji was standing on the cliff’s edge. He was able to finally step out from the trees but stopped himself when his student seemed to exit a deep thought process and speak. She spoke of wanting a new purpose and not wanting to kill any more. This shocked Shinichi because he had no idea that she felt that way, why hadn’t she told him, her teacher, how she truly felt about being a ninja?

Using his years of stealth, Shinichi was easily able to silently walk out of the tree lines and behind Niji. He walked up beside her and placed his right hand on her shoulder just as a gust of wind came rushing through, something that was pretty common at this elevation. He remained staring forward, the view of Kumo reflecting gloriously in his eyes. ”You know something…? We’ve all done things in our past that we’re not proud of, some more than others” instantly his dark past came back into his mind, he was starting to remember the face of his dead friend, the faces of all those he hurt before coming to Kumo, the smell of blood that at one point sustained him as if it was water. ”Although these choices will be with us for the rest of our days, they don’t have to make us who we don’t want to be. Everyone can change, they just need to know what they truly want to be” another gust of wind hit his face, causing his clothes to ripple a little bit.

Shinichi more than most could probably relate to Niji at this moment. Sure he still killed people, but he was far from what he once was. He changed, and for the better. At one point he wanted to cut out killing all together but he knew that killing, in some way, was a part of him. It wasn’t a pretty thought but it was something he wanted to be. He wanted to be someone who killed for the right reason, to kill the few to protect the many.

He finally looked over towards Niji, trying to read her face the best he could. His hand was still placed on her shoulder as he turned his head yet gently fell to his side soon after. ”If you don’t want to kill then don’t” he gave a small closed-mouth grin. ”No one is going to judge you for wanting a new purpose in life, for chasing after a new dream or goal, for trying to change for what you believe is better. I’ve been your sensei for nearly two years now and those two years have definitely changed me. For the better if you ask me. Sure we’ve been through a lot of conflict and seen a lot of death but all that is almost non-existent compared to how I feel when I help out the future generation in whatever they want do.”

Shinichi still needed to meet up with his new student but for now, it could wait just a few more minutes. ”If you’re looking for a change, just tell me. Although first try to ask yourself…what do you truly want to be?” Shinichi quoted himself from earlier and then waited for a response. He might be her teacher, but he was also her friend and friends helped each other out.

[Mr Nim]

Tora Hatake

After Naoto introduced herself, Tora looked at another new arrival. Her name was Kumogatarui, so her name would be easy to remember. The way she came down with webs from a tree made her wonder how long she has been up there, but she also wondered how much experience she had with the webs "Hello Kumogatarui. Next time, don't be so shy and wait hiding, come straight to us. I can assure you that we won't bite for as long as I'm around." She said and flashed a friendly smile to her, before turning to look at the last teammember who just arrived.

"I can only assume that you are Takeshi Fujiwara. Which means all of us are now. Allow me to repeat my introduction, and add a little something as well. My name is Tora Hatake, and you shall call Tora, Tora-sensei or Hatake-sensei. You will not call me anything else. I enjoy training in my free time or just relaxing. Now, I want Takeshi to make his proper introduction, and then I want to hear from the three of you..." Tora stopped and looked at the center of the training field for a moment before looking back at the three of them "What kind of an initial test do you think I will give you?" She asked and gave them a small smile.

[Mr Nim]

Sakamoto Senju

Standing up and moving to sit across from Hisoka, Sakamoto couldn't help but smile for a short moment on Hisoka's irritated reaction. The smile quickly went away and he took out a small file and placed it on the table, in front of Hisoka "First of all, Rika accepted to meet you in the time and place you scheduled. He said, before gesturing to the file "I have written down an official report on the status of Kirigakure, but in my own personal eyes..." He stopped and looked around for a moment before looking back at Hisoka.

"Kirigakure appears better than what I was told of. It is calm, and appeared to be doing well. Business was doing a lot better than what I would expect. However, when after I came and did my job, Rika decided to ask me a few questions. One was about what I thought about you, another about what I thought about Meisa. I only stated both of you were doing your jobs in a good manner, to avoid being exposed, due to the fact we are known to have worked together in the past. But I did find it very strange that she would ask me such questions. And before you say anything about it, I decided to answer the questions to ensure that Rika won't try and hold me back by force." Sakamoto said, referencing her history and her known personality.

[Mr Nim]

Yoshikuni Sadako and Hoshi Miwa

"I am going to stay, Ryoku-sama." She said before looking at him as he made his explanation. Before she hear how he divided the pairs, an ANBU approached her and motioned to her to come outside. Following him, she went outside of the facility and listened to him, with her eyes slightly widening as the ANBU spoke to her.

Ryoku had just announced Kuni was teamed with the new teammember of hers. She quickly jumped next to him "Alright! So the two of us are paired! We are gonna do so well together! And anyways, like Eiji said, I'm Kuni. Its a pleasure to meet you!" She said and offered her hand with a smile, wanting to shake hands with him. She then noticed Sho and the angry look he shot to Rini. She wondered what was his problem and hoped they would not be matched against him.

Quickly entering the building, Hoshi approached Ryoku "You need to come outside and hear this. Its important. Very important." She said before looking at one of the jounins that stood on the side "Could you watch over everyone for a few moments? I need to talk to the Amekage and Eiji outside." She told him, and after getting a nod from the jounin, she motioned to Eiji to also join them outside.

Once everyone was outside, Hoshi would give a nod to the ANBU "I saw something coming from the distance. Its a few kilometers away, so I rushed here as quickly as I could. Its the Four Tails. He is coming this way." The ANBU said and Hoshi turned to look at Eiji and Ryoku, waiting to hear what they had to say about the matter. She was already thinking about defensive strategies, but first she wanted to make sure they were on the same page.

[Fieryfly]

Midori Sato

Midori beamed back at Deidara. It was so good to be together again as a team. Lot of things had happened and really they hadn't done that much as a group. It was sad but Midori knew that it had been partly her fault. She had just not been ready for it. But now everything seemed pretty okay. Not like the old days though. It would never be like the old days with Gakuko and Nobushige, but honestly that was okay. These were the new days.

New days that were crashed by the fact that Asami creeped up behind them. Automatically Midori froze as the sound of her voice. Extremely slow she turned around and faced the woman she had cleaverly evaded for a year now. Or at least she believed she had evaded her. That Asami might have been monitoring her didn't concern her. As long as she wouldn't have to see the woman Midori couldn't care less. As Jinchuuriki Asami had the right to follow her, sure, but meeting her. Hell no.

"I don't-" She started to say when suddenly she wobbled. Her vision had suddenly decided that she was underwater and was blurring around her as if she was submerged. Her mouth formed an 'o' and while she really tried to focus on what Asami was saying, listening was important!, she was too distracted. It was something about catching Michi. Maybe he was lost? Confused Midori first turned to Reyna and Deidara and raised her finger. "I don't feel so good." She said still wobbling on her legs. With a quick shake of her head she tried to clear it a voice reaching out to Gyuki. "Can you help?"

[LillyDove]

Team 7, Shisen

Arashi seemed to have calmed down just a small bit from her earlier agitation and was now snarling at thr bandits, looking over at Shisen as she whined. It was obvious that she wanted to rage on them and knowing that she needed to get the energy out, Shisen nodded and Arashi pinned her ears back before lunging at the nearest remaining bandit, sinking her claws into his stomach as it sent them both to the ground. Ripping up his stomach before ending his screams with a gurgle before she ripped his throat out. Her muzzle was nearly coated in blood but she seemed unfazed by as she threw her head back and howled before lunging at the other nearest bandit. This one was armed and swung his mase at her, hitting her in the stomach before she could sink her teeth in him.

She yelped and fell short of tackling him, but she was able to get up as Shisen came rushing over to her and barreled into the bandit easily with the kunai being held out in front of her. Imp along him in the stomach as Arashi used her jaws to crush the bandits ankles, sending him to the ground as he fought back but it wasn't long before he went limp.

[Little Alice]

Harumi Uchiha
Konoha ANBU,

Back from the mission, back home.

The squad had encountered almost no other problem. That and Harumi had managed to keep the prisoner, the Sunagakure Jounin, a secret for the rest of the squad. When they arrived back at the gates of the Leaf, Harumi told them that she would report at the Hokage. Thanking her for that, the others went their own way. Behind her ANBU mask, the woman had a bad feeling. She didn't want to see Hisoka nor actually wanting to be back in the Leaf.

But she went to the Hokage Office never the less. It was her job to speak to that man. Though disgusted by that fact, she wouldn't make any problem of it. On her way, she noticed a person going through the window and the opinion on Hisoka became even less. Which kind of Hokage would let people go through the window? Even the Third, who seemed to slack off, was a better option. During his time, she had never been idle or had to interact too much with Hisoka. Gritting her teeth, she was glad with the mask. It would hide her discontent with the current situation. Walking to the doors of the Konoha Office, she wasn't stopped by the ANBU. She was one of them and the sensors already had likely scanned if the chakra signature wasn't a fake. With nobody stopping her or wanting to talk with her, she stood in front of the Hokage Office door. Knocking on it, she would wait till she could enter the room.

[Little Alice]

Asami Sanosuke
Michi, the sparrow.

An observation on team 13.

Eyeing the team with a neutral glance, so far a sparrow could form that, Michi noticed that the poison was kicking. Midori already seemed to have some trouble. Tilting his head, the sparrow hopped closer on his branch to see what more would happen. He was certain that Deidara was also going to face some trouble. Though no physical contact was made, the boy had been too close and breathed the poison in. That was enough that the poison would kick in and do its work. Only that other girl was safe and Michi was aware that there was little information on her. Curious, the little bird tjirped to catch their attention.

''I wonder what kind of use that scroll will have. ~'' Michi said, looking in the direction of the more experienced members of Team 13. ''Are you going to write that you had seen Lady Asami? Or maybe that you're feeling miserable?'' The sparrow continued, on a very honeyed tone. That only made him sound more sarcastic as he seemed to mock the three. Safe on the branch, the sparrow tjirped as he hopped again. ''So, two down and one to go. Shall I try to poison you as well? I reckon there is still some little bit on my feathers.~''

Revealing that, Michi was wondering what they would do. If they wouldn't come up with a plan and he could poison Reyna, it was over. If they would try to chase him, there was only one person able to do so. Both Midori and Deidara couldn't possibly chase him while feeling noxious and sick. But if Reyna would leave his team members, who said that they would be safe? It was a very interesting training as their teamwork was put to the test, more because the presumed weakest person was now the one that could decide the outcome of the mission.

Very interesting indeed.~

[Little Alice]

Rini Yoto

Sho's partner?
IT IS ON!

Rini's eyes widened. She was going to battle at the side of Sho. She didn't even hear his sneer. No, she didn't care. Instead. she clenced her hands into fists. With a fierce look, she turned her head and stared Sho dead right in the eye. Though she had no idea what he had said, this was enough. If he wasn't going to show her respect when she acted in a normal fashion than that was it. During her time as an academy student she had never been able to stand up for herself. But with that time behind her and Sho acting like a complete bastard, she wasn't going to let him.

''Shut up, annoying pest.'' The tone that spitted out the words wasn't the only thing that was sent towards Sho. In her moment of acting tough, she spitted Sho in the face. Hoping that it would hit him right in the face, Rini placed her hands on her hips. ''If you are as tough as you act, I would suggest to focus. I had it with you acting cool and tough while you show nothing more than the attitude of a boy who has a stick up his rear! Now you, fuck off!'' She shouted the last words, clearly not very pleased with the manner how she had been treated this far by Sho.

[AlterNathan]

Fujiwara Takeshi

Takeshi came closer after the spider-girl dropped down from the trees. Tora introduced himself and told Takeshi to do the same. The young Fujiwara boy shifted his feet uneasy of the fact that the situation would demand him to talk to his squad mates. He wasn't really used to actually talk to people, he always was the silent one, even in class. Remembering something his cousin had once told him about not letting people get too close to you and then decided to reveal only what was required. He looked up, into the man's eyes, silent doesn't always mean shy. "Takeshi, I'm 16" He raised a brow as if he were to ask if that was enough "I like training too" he said eventually. Tora-sensei asked them a difficult question, something about a test. Takeshi shrugged, he wouldn't know, he just hoped he would pass it.

[Shadowcatcher]

What A Night...
Leading up to something unfortunate...

A collaboration between Little Alice and Shadowcatcher

Pains

Limping home, it was already midnight. Mika panted. The cuts and other wounds were still fresh. The blood might have dried up, but the pain was still present. All the way, she had been limping back to her home. It was even a struggle to open the door with her keys. A shiver went through her body as she went through the door opening. It was dark inside, as she had made sure that Haruhi was in bed when she had went towards the Mizukage Office. Managing to close the door behind her, Mika trembled. Checking if the door was locked, the woman started to limp towards her own room, something warm flowing down her cheeks.

Haruhi was slightly awake, teetering between sleep and consciousness. Earlier that night she'd woken up from a dream she'd been having alot recently. It was wierd. She would never remember anything but the end: Haruhi was stood over her villiage, hundreds of feet tall, and trapped inside something to watch it burn beneath her. It was unsettling to say the least, but what was even more unsettling than that, she heard the light click of a door in a place that should have been silent. Sliding out of bed, Haruhi retrieved a kunai from her things before slowly making her way to the door and opening it.

It was odd that anyone aware of who lived here would try to break in, but she was sure if it were her sensei, not a sound would have been heard. Stepping into the hall, her foot landed in something warm and wet. Bending down through her knees, she reached out to touch the odd liquid. Seeing the dark red color on her fingers she held in a gasp and stood. Not caring if an intruder was here or not, she ran as fast as she could to Mika's room. Swinging the door open, Haruhi's knees got weak at the sight before her and the kunai slipped from her fingers.

Hearing the sounds, Mika kept on going on. She was breathing heavily as she was trying to bandage some deep cuts. Hissing right at the moment that Haruhi came in, Mika looked up. "Go to.. bed.'' Mika said on a hoarse tone. It still was painful for her to talk. The pressure on her body was still there, straining her and causing everything to hurt. Returning her attention to her wounds, Mika felt something else than the pain. Guilt. Guilt and bitter regret. She shouldn't be alive. Why hadn't she pressed on? Why hadn't she back then continued, to show her resolve? Maybe Mika would have been spared this fate. ''Go...'' Mika tried to order Haruhi again, but knowing that it wasn't going to work.

Haruhi pressed a hand to her mouth to keep in a scream she otherwise would have let out. She ran back to her room to get her ointments and bandages then the bathroom to get the things she needed for stitches. As she picked up the small needle with trembling hands, she couldn't think of anyone who could have hurt her sensei like that. Grabbing a drink of water and a pain pill along with a damp towel, she walked back to her sensei's room to help her, ignoring her protests.

After giving her sensei the pill and water to drink, she ordered her to lay on her bed, then immediately took the towel and sutures to her deep cuts. Thanking her mom for teaching her this, she was able to sucessfully patch them up adding ointment and bandages. Even after all this time, she felt uneasy at the sight of blood. But her hands moved mechanically and delicately. Haruhi didnt even waste a single moment to speak, simply kept focus on her task. She was no medical nin, however, so it did take a bit of time to finish with...average results.

Laying on her back, Mika tried to relax her breathing. Closing her eyes, she let Haruhi. Would she else be able to send her to bed? No. Right now, she wasn't able to order Haruhi to go to her own room. She wasn't able to comfort her. Like she had been unable to protect her. The bitter taste of defeat came back in Mika's mouth as she realized how much of a failure she had became. ''Haruhi...'' Mika whispered. The woman wanted her to go away. To not see her like this, but more.

To not be the cause for Haruhi to grow worried. After all, she had made a promise something like this wouldn't happen. The question of Rika came back in Mika's mind. If she was a fine sensei? Seems now the answer was pretty clear, Mika thought bitter and saddened.... "I'm not leaving you." was the determined reply to her weak teachers calling of her name. "Whatever happened...dont worry. You're here now and i'll protect you." she said now moving onto her smaller cuts. Haruhi guessed that Mika didn't want to feel like a burden, so with tear brimmed eyes she said quietly, "Its okay...this is no trouble at all. You are important to me so, nothing you do can upset me or be a burden to me, got that?" she stopped speaking and wiped Mika's face with the cleanest part of the towel.

When she was finished, Haruhi let out a small sigh and stood, climbing into bed next to her sensei. She didn't bother cleaning up or putting anything away, nor did she care her hands were crusted with a bit of blood. She simply lay down, facing her teacher, and stayed quiet. The words of Haruhi had an impact on Mika. Even though she had faced death several times, without any fear, she had done it this time with it. Fearing that she wouldn't be able to be there for Haruhi anymore. And now that she was with the person she wanted to protect from harm, she knew that she had been too weak. When Haruhi told her that she would be protected, Mika sniffed. Tears welled up at the eyes of the woman as she hugged Haruhi tightly. ''I'm so..sorry.'' Mika whispered. She felt how the tears kept rolling down her cheek. Feeling only worse that Haruhi had the strength to protect her, she had no idea how much pain she was causing with those words.

For a brief second, Mika was willing to tell Haruhi what had happened. What would happen. That they should try and go find a life somewhere else. Trying to stay out of Kirigakure's reach. To keep avoiding to be found by the Hunter nin of the Mist. Mika knew how they worked and could likely be able to avoid being caught. But Haruhi didn't. And it had became pretty clear that she couldn't protect the girl. ''I love you.'' Mika whispered as she kept holding Haruhi tight and close. Haruhi's tears had started to fall as Mika spoke and pulled her into a hug.

"Wh...why does it sound like your saying goodbye? Your not leaving me are you? You cant leave...! We...we're the best team. We can do anything together..." she said the last part just as she started crying softly, so it was a little less understandable. In this situation, her sensei seeming so broken in more ways than one, Haruhi didn't know what to think. Her fear allowed her mind to race and she thought for a moment maybe Mika was dying or something. After she got herself under control she looked at Mika.

"Sensei, please...tell me whats wrong?"

Hearing Haruhi's reply, Mika shushed her. Patting the girl's head, Mika tried to think what she could say. The truth wasn't a choice. She rather wanted to give Haruhi a better night rest than wasting that. ''I am not....'' She said, trying to form a full sentence. The pain was still bothering her, making it hard for her to talk normally. ''I am not going...to...to leave you.'' Slowly, Mika managed to form a smile as she tried to calm down Haruhi. ''Sleep.'' Saying the word, Mika pulled Haruhi closer again, closing her own eyes. Already she saw the images of what tomorrow would bring. Haruhi listened to her sensei, saying nothing but closing her eyes. It was oddly comforting to hear she would not be left alone. Snuggling in closer, she forced herself to comply, just go back to sleep.

All this must be a dream...i'll wake up tomorrow, and everything will be fine again. she thought to herself as she slowly drifted back to sleep.

[Little Alice]

Flashback!

A mission in the past!
A few months before the actual start of this IC.

The mission that changed a lot,
Hayate (Chromehound) and Kiyomi (Little Alice)

Part II

Summary :
Kiyomi arranges a mission for her and Hayate, briefing him that this will be a special kind of mission.
The second part.

First part

Part II!

Arriving at the forest edge, Kiyomi frowned. ''I feel that we forgot something, oh wait.'' Stopping, she looked over her shoulder. At that moment, screams were heard and she giggled. The sailors were running from the boat as something exploded. ''Well that was that. Come, we need to continue.'' Kiyomi said, rather cheerfully as the sailors tried to put out the fire that had been the result of something exploding on the inside of the ship. Trying to navigate through the dense tropical forest, Kiyomi kept looking around, giving the clear image that she was still expecting somebody or something.

Upon hearing the screams and the explosion, Hayate turned his head back to the beach. Shaking his head amusedly, he laughed slightly. "That was your work I take it?" So much for a low profile." He said, poking fun. Seeing Kiyomi's attention was focused on her surroundings, Hayate decided he would try and get a better idea of their surroundings. "Be back in a moment." He said, before disappearing below the earth. While he moved through the earth, Hayate felt the world around him. He could feel a few small disturbances in the earth, and sense several smaller lifeforms. It was clear to him that there was nothing in the nearby area aside from him, Kiyomi, and whatever wildlife inhabited this forest. Popping back up beside Kiyomi, he spoke. "The coast appears clear for now. Only thing I could sense were forest animals and us. If they are planning a trap for us it doesn't look like it will be here."

Like he had asked, she had waited till he was back. When he brought in his report, she nodded and then looked around for a last time. ''That is a bit disturbing. It doesn't mean that we are safe. To be honest, I have little intel on what they can throw at us. For instance, we don't know if they can supress their chakra or if they will strike from the skies. But I think the diversion will lure some of their attention. Meaning we can try to move a bit faster. Come.'' With that said, Kiyomi started to jog and then using a few jumps to get on top of a branch. Waiting a second, she would then jump from branch to branch at a fast pace. Already a plan was forming inside her mind as she started to think about the next step.

Nodding his head in agreement, Hayate moved to follow in behind her. Leaping up to a tree next to hear he kept pace with her, leaping between branches. Hayate trusted her to lead him to their target, after all, she was the one with all of the intel. So for now he simply follwed, keeping himself prepared for any possible trap or ambush. Whatever, or whoever they were dealing with sounded like they posed a significant threat, and Hayate did not wish to be caught unaware.

While they were traveling, Kiyomi looked over her shoulder. ''We need to plan this really carefully.'' She told him as she jumped towards another branch. ''So far the odds are against us, but they don't mean we can't finish this mission without a success. They know some things about me, but nothing about you. At least, not to be mean or such.'' Landing on a branch, Kiyomi flashed a sorry smile towards Hayate. ''But other than you're my student, you're an unknown person on this island. That is why I ordered you to not use your clan's ability. Now I just need to change my own disadvantage.'' While she kept leading them, Kiyomi started to weave several handseals before she summoned a cloud of smoke around her. It was clearly a jutsu, but instead of Kiyomi the result of her transformation jutsu was revealed. ''This might help.'' Kiyomi said ,trying to sound differently.

Leaping from branch to branch, Hayate listened closely to Kiyomi. As she mentioned that he was unknown he simply smiled. He in no way found it to be offensive. In fact he understood that it gave him an advantage in this situation. Turning to look at Kiyomi he was about to respond when he saw someone else in her place. Doing a double take, Hayate shook his head just to make sure he wasn't going crazy. Realizing that Kiyomi had transormed herself to disguise who she was, Hayate slowly nodded. Grinning he spoke. "That is a good disguise Kiyomi-sama, though I must say I prefer the original."

The transformed Kiyomi frowned in the direction of Hayate. ''I prefer you not judging looks. Its rather odd you just did.'' She replied back as she continued to lead him. Looking back in the way they were facing, Kiyomi sighed. ''Its only good for a bit. After all, I can easily keep this up for quite a long time with my control and reserves. Problem is that doesn't change the way I fight or my abilities.'' She said, sounding a bit annoyed. Sgihing again, she glanced at him. ''Which makes me think. We could use your summoning to also scout and help us out. Later, after setting up camp.''

As she frowned at him, Hayate struggled to figure out what he said. Leaping to another branch he spoke apologetically. "I did not mean to judge your look in any way. I apologize if it came across that way. I simply meant that I have grown used to spending time with you and talking with you, and it is strange to see you in another form, yet with you being that same person. My apologies for any offense." Hayate hung his head, a little ashamed, as they continued. He had not meant to upset Kiyomi at all. As she mentioned using Kuromu to scout the area, Hayate simply nodded. The dragon had grown bigger, and his ability to fly would certainly be an asset in scouting out their surroundings.

Hearing his response, the frown of Kiyomi was furrowed as she then shook her head. ''I know. Your words actually made me think back when I took my birth name.'' Kiyomi told him, but didn't continue about that. After they had travelled a bit, Kiyomi slowed down as she looked around. There was a clearing nearby. A relatively good spot to make camp. Pointing to it, Kiyomi made a handsignal. After all, they first were in need to secure the place and making sure that nobody would be around. Dropping out of the tree, Kiyomi looked around. There were no signs of a person. No scents or sounds. Walking to the clearing, she kept high watch over her surroundings.

Kiyomi's answer made Hayate curious, but he decided not to press it by questioning her. As they arrived in the clearing, Hayate watched as Kiyomi dropped to the ground, surveying the area. He opted to take the high ground. Moving from tree to tree, Hayate checked their surroundings, looking for any possible signs of enemies, or anything out of the ordinary. So far the area seemed secure enough. Glancing back to the clearing itself, Hayate looked at Kyomi, wondering if she had seen anything yet.

''The area is safe.'' She told him through their earphone communicator. Placing her right hand on her hip, she sighed. For a last time she looked around. The feeling to be wary was raising as she thought where they were. This island wasn't a place for her, as soon as she would be discovered her then she would be in grave trouble. Even with the transformation jutsu, she doubted that would really help. ''Lets make camp and then get some rest.'' She mumbled as she started to look in her shoulderbag for some material to make a comfortable spot. A tent or a sack was something she hadn't packed. After all, she wouldn't get it cold due Matatabi and the Fire Chakra control training she had picked up from Jinkama's training.

Leaping from the trees, Hayate landed in the clearing close to Kiyomi. Nodding his head at her mention of settling in, Hayate plopped down both of the bags he was carrying. "Are we going to be setting up watch?" He asked as he rummaged through his bag. He briefly wondered if Kiyomi had brought a tent or anything similar, as he hadn't thought to pack one. Ignoring the thought, Hayate pulled out the thin blanket that he had packed, just in case the mission was going to take longer than a single day. Looking around he wondered if the blanket would really be warm enough.

''I will set up two shadow clones. I rather wish us to be rested as much as possible. Tomorrow we're heading to the town.'' Kiyomi told him as an answer. Putting a thin blanket on the ground, near a tree, she made two shadow clones. Both of them instantly dashed away. One took up a position in the branches and the other went to hide in the bushes. With that done, she walked towards her blanket and laid on it. Moulding her chakra to warm up her body heat, Kiyomi wondered if she wasn't wasting too much chakra. But it was also good to be already warmed up in case somebody would try to attack or ambush them. ''Good night Hayate. Sleep well.''

The idea made perfect sense and Hayate smiled. Placing his blanket down, he stretched himself out on it, glad that he had his long coat to cover himself. Glancing over to Kiyomi as she spoke, he smiled warmly. "Goodnight to you as well Kiyomi-sama. See you in the morning." Closing his eyes, Hayate attempted to get comfortable. So far the jacket kept him warm enough, and he hoped that sleep took him before it got colder.

---

The next morning.
Somewhere on the Sea Country island.

Kiyomi's eyes shot open as she quickly rolled to the right. Several kunai impaled the blanket she had been sleeping on. Narrowing her eyes, she quickly scanned the surroundings and tried to figure out where her attacker was. ''Hayate! Hey!'' Kiyomi tried to wake him up with shouting, as she noticed several shuriken heading his way. Pulling out several shuriken of her own, she managed to keep her companion unharmed and was hoping he would wake up from the sounds of the starting battle. Already Kiyomi looked over her shoulder with an angry glance. There you are.

Hearing the sounds of metal clashing against metal, followed by Kiyomi's yell, Hayate woke with a start. Pulling out his staff he leapt to his feet, turning and spinning the staff in one fluid movement. As he spun he knocked down two more shuriken heading towards him with the staff. Looking in the direction of the thrown shuriken, Hayate thought he spotted a figure above them in the trees. Switching the staff into his left hand, he pulled out two kunai from his pocket, keeping them hidden in the folds of his coat. Spinning the staff as a distraction, Hayate turned his body and then whipped the kunai in the direction of his attacker, or at least what he thought was his attacker. Speaking through the earphone communicator Hayate spoke to Kiyomi, careful not to use her name. "Sensei, how many do you see? He kept moving just in case there were any more targets out there, his eyes constantly looking through the shadows trying to find an enemy.

''Three. I don't see them, but hear and smell them.'' Kiyomi responded back. She realized that the enemy was now trying to lure them and creating an opening. Or at least attempt to see what abilities they had. Kiyomi's right hand went to the hilt of her katana as she kept looking around. ''They managed to almost sneak upon my clones. There is one on your right and two on the left. Problem is that I can't really determine what kind of foes they are. The cowards are staying in the shadows.'' Kiyomi whispered, so that only Hayate could hear it through the earphone communicator. Hearing something, she turned her head and noticed several shuriken again heading towards Hayate. The one on his right likely had threw them.

As Kiyomi spoke, Hayate grinned. Only three, well, this should be easy then. "If these cowards want to stay hidden I suppose we'll just have to bring the fight to them." He spoke very quietly through the communicator. Seeing the glint of metal coming towards himout of the corner of his eye, Hayate whipped his body around, pulling out three shuriken and throwing them swiftly towards the shadows. The shuriken that were heading for him sped through the spot he had been standing moments before and struck only dirt. Pulling out a smoke bomb, Hayate slammed it down, waiting for the smoke to cover him before he sunk into the earth.

Kiyomi's senses had indeed been correct. Hayate could feel three large disturbances through the earth, and they had realitvely low level chakra signals from what he could make out. Moving swiftly through the earth, Hayate made his way to the enemy on his right, the one who had tried to kill him moments before. Getting in place behind the enemy, he could sense that the man's life force was slightly faded, as if he were wounded. Smiling, Hayate rose silently from the earth. A kunai in one hand, he grabbed the man and placed one hand over his mouth, and the blade to his throat. Leaning in close, Hayate whispered into the enemy's ear. "You chose the wrong people to attack." Pulling back slightly, Hayate slit the man's throat and lowered his body so that it wouldn't make any unwanted noise as it hit the ground. As he laid the man's body down, he saw that two of his kunai had indeed struck their target. Speaking quietly through the earphone commnuicator he tried to reach Kiyomi. "One down."

''Almost... one down here as well. Don't let the last one escape.'' Was Kiyomi's response. The sound of steel against steel was briefly heard before Kiyomi shot an order through the communicator. ''He is going towards your left. Try to immobilize that punk.'' Kiyomi ordered. She had her sword out and it was stained with blood of an attacker. The last one was now trying to likely flee and report about that the two were better than expected. Or maybe of where they were. Though any information that would be reported would only make the mission harder. Something Kiyomi wouldn't like in this situation.

Disappearing below the earth once again, Hayate sensed the last of their attackers fleeing off to his side. Travelling with speed, Hayate managed to overtake the man and rose to the surface in front of him, holding out a kunai. The attacker, not having time to stop, impaled himself on the kunai. Hayate drove the kunai further into his chest, watching as the man's eyes grew wide with pain and terror. Shifting his weight, Hayate forced the attacker to the ground, still holding the kunai. Leaning in close Hayate spoke calmly. "If you tell me who you are working for, and why they are attacking us, I will make this quick. If not, well..." To emphasize his point, Hayate twisted the blade slightly, opening the wound further. The man coughed up blood, attempting to speak quickly. "I... I don't know anything, I swear! I was just told to kill you two! Please- -" Another spurt of blood coughed up. "Please don't kill me, I was just following orders." Hayate slowly shook his head. "I believe you." With his free hand, Hayate pulled out another kunai and quickly slit the man's throat. Rising to his feet he wiped off both blades before placing them back in his pouch. He took no pleasure in what he had just done, but he wished he had learned more from the man. Speaking over the earphone communicator he reached out to Kiyomi. "Third one down. I am making my way back to you now."

Hayate entered the clearing spotting the other dead attacker and Kiyomi standing with her blade out. Walking towards her he spoke. "So much for a welcoming party."