Sunrise

[Kouta]

The Inuzuka pissed him off. He spoke to Kaidomaru like some mis-gotten child, even though Kaidomaru technically hadn't been included as part of the conversation, the boy doubting any of them had taken notice of his approach. Still, the boy's words were like the poison of an arrogant seed, easily sown and quickly brought down amongst the group. He quickly brought himself to attention, speaking from his place in the shadows, just as arrogant, as if he knew what he was saying. Of course, the entire time he'd be flexing the shadows about him to provide a mysterious, somewhat dark, and angry demeanor.

"No. Only those stupid enough to align with people who they cannot trust with their lives are subject to your flawed and entirely useless reasoning. It seems that you simply have had the misfortune of being daft enough to choose bad allies. Look at you. You speak to us like you are better than we are. I personally wouldn't trust my back to you if it came down to it. No team can be built on such nonsense. I'd assume thats what your exercise was. The Genjutsu? A team-building exercise, with some sort of lesson to impart to you the wisdom of Konoha's inner flame. Apparently, only half of the lesson sank in. The flaw with humans is that they are all terrible and fickle creatures. Most of them. Still, bonds can be forged that cannot be easily undone. With the idea that you are better than us, your snide and domineering attitude, based only somewhat on your skill, and mostly on your mouth, destroys any hope at the team dynamic. I'm not surprised you've found few allies to trust, the way you treat people you've just met."

Kaidomaru said, sneering just a bit, chuckling a soft laugh on his behalf. The irony of the situation was more than a little bit humorous to him. Otto had sent him out among the village to meet friends, not find jackasses who needed to be brought down a peg or two. Maybe this would be interesting.

"And if your first and only thought is kill or be killed, then it seems you might be just a little less civilized than the pup on your shoulder. If anything, my family has given me the important insight that there is always a third, a forth, and when applicable, a fifth or sixth option to every problem. No decision is black or white, and no action is without consequences. Including this one. Will you get angry, and challenge me in some immediate conflict? Likely. Your savage nature imparts you to defend your honor. Will you burst out angrily, talking more big words but making no movement or action? More likely than the first, if my impression of you holds true. Will you ignore me, and pretend I didn't talk? Equally as likely, since your attitude lends you an air of nonchalant and undeserved status that you've yet to prove to me. But you can't say they all will. Many ears and many minds hear the same sentence, some of the might agree with me. Will the rest of the group find me just as arrogant as you? Of course, but at least I know that I'm better than none of them, except when it comes to intelligence, since its been conditioned into me since birth. Will you perhaps hope one of them will answer for you, speaking outrage or praise, deciding the mob's vote? An indecisive choice, but you can make it. Perhaps you'd choose to try and befriend me, stating your wrongs and arguments to try and catch me unaware? Not as likely, but I plan for all possibilities I see. Or will you do the unexpected, and think up something I've yet to concoct in my head? I sincerely hope so, but the prospect looks grim. Now, will that have been the same answer you'd deliver if I had not told you any of my thoughts? NOW we get interesting. Influencing your thought merely by stating my own. Scary, eh? Almost like mind control."

Kaidomaru said, stepping from the shadows to properly view the group. He was dressed in traditional fashion. His black vest, emblazoned with Nara Clan symbol, hung over his frame, which, at the moment, was covered with a stark white underclothing, which clung to his frame much like the skin-tight black outfits that the ANBU wore beneath their armor. The shirt trailed into a pair of black pants, much like Kendo pants, that trailed down to his ankles, where another Nara Clan Emblem sat, staring forth at the bottom right hem. His hair was equally as shocking, being the two toned black and silver that he was born with.

"But I've been rude to you all. My name is Kaidomaru. Nara Kaidomaru. I've been sent with some of my clan's medical supplies to aid the recovery of men and women in the village. I'd assume that the savage idiot is an Inuzuka, but I don't have the pleasure of knowing the rest of you."

The sentence was startling and shocking, being a sudden flip from the aggressive, statistic rage that he unleashed on the Inuzuka. It was a show of pre-conditioned manners that he was nigh on certain were not expected from him..."Always keep 'em guessing...." Kaidomaru said, smiling, half to be polite, half to himself for his little joke.

[Rhapsody]

"Interesting."

Ayatsuri's unseeing gaze slid slowly over to Kaidomaru, blind to his cute scare tactics, almost taken aback at the sudden monologue aimed to debase and hurt him. In all his life, Ayatsuri had never actually met such a rude individual. He supposed it was the will of a greenhorn talking; because he knew the Nara child could not back up his words against the Inuzuka in the slightest. Surely, any battle between them would last only seconds before Kaidomaru slumped over dead - assuming Soujiro or the other two did not step in and stop the kill.

To Ayatsuri, it seemed as though the child was more fighting inner demons than the other ninja boy. He spoke of arrogance, snide attitudes and a faltering team dynamic. He made Ayatsuri out to be some savage while he bit out his chunks, mostly unprovoked and while others stood by silently. Perhaps it was this - the irony of the situation partnered with the fact that he could crush Kaidomaru under his thumb - that kept him calm. No fist was raised. Fumetso Aibo hid snugly in her home.

"I had always heard the Nara were... Arrogant. I never imagined..." He didn't seem to be speaking to anybody in particular. Shiranui suck his nose into the boy's ear as if to calm his temper, which had not been riled, "You're a Gennin, right? Your chakra pool is so small, I barely sensed it. Perhaps I should kill you where you stand. Perhaps I should blast into an unbecoming rage. But I know you'll learn. I know that one day you'll see that an assumption is not something you can make in the real world. Perhaps back in your home, your mother praised and coddled you for your intelligence, but the ability to analyze is not intelligence. What you've been conditioned to from birth, it would seem, is blow your horn above everyone else's."

He shrugged lightly. Perhaps he had played into one of Kaidomaru's scenarios, but at least hen he spoke, he could back it up with more than a charming little grin.

[Kouta]

Kaidomaru smiled even bigger. Probably not what the Inuzuka expected, but Kaidomaru was now genuinely pleased, as opposed to simply amused.

"So the neanderthal has a brain, then? I'm surprised. And quite pleased. It was a profound statement, and I had hoped there would be a wit underneath all that arrogance to match the words. But don't be so hasty to assume I'd die. At least not so quickly."

Kaidomaru said, taking a few steps towards the Inuzuka. From a distance, the difference wouldn't be as obvious, but as he moved closer, it was fact. Kaidomaru was older, than the Inuzuka child, and he would act like he had more years under him than the Inuzuka tried to instill. Lack of ability to fight wouldn't be the contest here. Any animal nature would respect that.

"Because how much chakra I have is irrelevant, if your claws are the ones slitting your own throat. I wouldn't have to lift a muscle to end the fight. You'd do it for me. Don't be so swift to assume that chakra, or strength, or even speed is the single key to winning a fight. Because if your body becomes my weapon, MY powers are not important. And your arguments are moot. Even at this stage of the game, I can use THAT jutsu. Just long enough to end the fight. It'll be worth a try some day, but I'd rather not have one of us die before we can have more matches of wit. They provide a right bit more amusement than sparring with Otto."

Kaidomaru then moved closer to the Inuzuka, thrusting out a hand, but not in a threatening gesture. A simple handshake. That was all. Another strategy, a decision. He knew full well that if his Kagemane failed, then yes, the Inuzuka would rend him limb from limb. If it succeeded, the Inuzuka would kill itself, being much stronger than Kaidomaru, who might be bleeding and injured, but not dead, long after the Iuzuka's strength would do it in. He'd rather not play fate with his luck. So he would defuse the animosity. A handshake would work well.

"So like I said, my Little Neanderthal, the name is Nara Kaidomaru, what's yours?"

Several scenarios raced through his mind. He had jumped to a crux point, and it could spiral in many directions.

Edited December 9, 2008 by Kouta

[Rhapsody]

ooc- Actually, Ayatsuri is six feet tall. Kaidomaru is two inches shorter. :c

Ayatsuri was not scared. He wasn't usually. The boy shrugged his shoulders under Shiranui's paws, and the puppy jumped down, scampering towards Taiyaki with his tail hanging very low. Even he - the savage, the uncultured brute - could recognize that this was a heavy situation. However, it was a shame for Kaidomaru that Ayatsuri was blind, and did not see the outstretched hand. He could only be expected to achieve so much.

"Inuzuka Ayatsuri," he said brightly, and then wound back with his fist, aiming to jam it into the other boy's jaw. He couldn't quite explain the rage bubbling in the pit of his gut, but if this Nara wanted to play, then he was more than willing, "Inuzuka-sama to you."

This was the first time Ayatsuri could remember being provoked like this. Not though life and death battle, but the petty arrogance of a Gennin. Had he made the wrong choice? As he pulled his fist back to his body and split his stance to more evenly distribute his weight, Ayatsuri didn't think so. He was hardly aiming to kill the boy. Perhaps the most he would be able to do was break his jaw, and the Nara could live through that. and maybe it would encourage him to keep his mouth shut in the face of superiors.

Basic Attack~

5 DMG + 175 MOD - 10 DEF = 170 DMG.

60 BASE + 145 ACC - 25 EVA = 180 [90 Cap]

170 Damage/90% chance to hit.

Edited December 9, 2008 by Rhapsody

[Blackrose]

Tenka withdrew from an attack stance and slowly lowered her kunai. She kept a tight grip on it though, making sure she was ready for any surprises. She was already getting sick of the group. The only one who seemed to be in the same boat as she was, was the boy with the eye patch. She moved towards him showing that she was with him in case anything might happen. The rest of them seemed rather irrational in her opinion. This man put them under an intense genjutsu to test their resolve. Tenka was almost sure she was going to die during that fight. She really hated being toyed with.

It didn't take long for long-winded speech to occur. She didn't pay attention to most of it. She caught something about the ‘flame of Konoha' and world peace. She didn't care either way. She wasn't from Konoha, so she didn't possess whatever that flame was. As for world peace, she didn't care much about it, as long as she survived. The rest of the group didn't even seem to flinch. Everyone fell in line even if being deceived angered them.

Soon they were even bickering amongst themselves. At first it seemed idiotic and immature but after awhile it became amusing, especially as a fight began to brew. ”This should be fun…” She whispered to the boy with the eye patch.

Edited December 9, 2008 by Blackrose

[Takius]

ooc; LOL RSCHEL THAT WOULD BE MORE THAN ENOUGH TO KILL HIM IN 1 HIT. And since my Speed is almost twice yours... I decided it'd be okay with you to do this. <3 you?

bic;

Taiyaki had been quietly watching the quarrel unfold with a very cold expression on his face. It seemed like Ayatsuri had already gone from happy-go-lucky to…whatever it is he was now in the span of a few days. Maybe it was mere exhaustion from having fought so many battles in so little time that had driven the Inuzuka to the edge; if that was the case, the Uchiha sympathized with his teammate. Whatever it was, the Uchiha had never seen his friend so angered… except that one time when Shira had been injured by the NCIA nin… nonetheless, as he sensed the motions of Ayatsuri readying a punch, he sprang into action. Not only because he could see that though the blow wasn’t anything special from Ayatsuri, it would be able to lay waste to the Gennin instantly, but also because he believed the Nara boy didn’t deserve it. Sure, he wasn’t from a particularly ‘noble’ clan and certainly wasn’t very tolerable… but, well, having his jaw blown off for making a few smarmy remarks? Really?

In a single, fluid movement, he rose and shoved the Nara out of the way, swiftly maneuvering himself around the blow. “Ayatsuri… please,” he spoke, quietly. Politely. Shiranui whined from his spot, and Taiyaki turned to give the Nara a withering glance. Despite the difference of age, the Uchiha managed to give off an air of poised condescension that would have sent many people scurrying. “Nara-san. I would advise you to no longer seek to provoke those who are able to shatter your jaw with but a gentle prod… but if you are as intelligent as you claim yourself to be, I’m sure you would have arrived to that conclusion seconds ago.” His quick words carried a calm order – this was the voice of a boy who, upon manhood, would not be used to being disobeyed. And for good reason, too.

Edited December 9, 2008 by Takius

[cntrstrk14]

Tsubasa would watch the action, not stepping in as the Nara spoke towards the Jounin in such a rude fashion. In many ways Tsubasa agreed with every word the man spoke, the tactic was moronic, bubbling fear between those who are suppose to be friends and rely on each other. Never the less Tsubasa had never seen the point in relying his strength on others. Sure it was beneficial to work in teams, but you could not rely on them always being there or always fighting on your side. But to plant seeds of mistrust between such a tender crowd could mean the difference between life or death.

The Nara continued, and down the path towards lashing out at the Inuzuka who had just fought, or well, dream fought next to him a moment ago. Tsubasa did not find these comments to be in line, but from what he had seen from the older boy he could handle himself. Plus it may turn out interesting. Oddly, this was the same thing the boy next to him whisper towards Tsubasa as the words escalated. There was something odd about the boy, but he couldn't put his finger on it and as thus he swiftly tossed it to the back of his mind.

A few lines later it almost did, as the Inuzuka set a fist straight for the boy's face. Tsubasa could see the boy had no hope of escaping the attack, and without the intervention of the Uchiha he may have had his face smashed in.

"Should have let him do it.", Tsubasa said coolly towards the Uchiha.

ooc: Given the situation I wouldn't have allowed it if I was GM. They were point blank, and the Nara was offering peace. The punch was out of no where, even if you have twice the speed, you would have had to move probably at least four times the distance compared to the punch he would have had to throw, if not much more. But w/e, Azure's call, not my thread. lol.

[acillies45]

(OOC: Sorry, was busy for a few days, Im going to sum up quickly)

Jinsoku was basically going to lunge at Soujiro with his kuni blazing, but Baromosa stopped him. Baromosa told him then to stop, but even then Jinsoku didnt put his weapon away. He gripped it hard in his hand, his eyes blazing and ready to strike even if he would die. He did this throughout the speech that Soujiro gave even. He wasnt exactly sure what to believe right now. The men talked about radicals and trators, but what they didnt seem to realize, was what they were doing wasnt exactly helping. First they thought Soujiro was dead. Then he was alive and triing to kill all of Konoha. THEN he was alive and trying to exlain why they did all of this.

Jinsoku was tired. He had been away from home for months, fighting for this place. Of course he was still loyal and ready to defend it, testing him only seemed to insult him. As if fighting in an upheavel of the NCIA wasnt enough, now he had to be ready for radicals? Of course, but that was what shinobe did anyway wasnt it? He had alot going on inside his mind right now. He just wanted to go home and see his mother again. It had been weeks since he had and he had to admit...he missed her dearly.

He had been deep in thought, not even paying attention to the others besides comming in and out of the conversation to listen. Right now he was decideing whether or not to trust Soujiro. These events made it hard to tell, but at the same time, he leaned towards giving him a chance. He might as well, but one more time would be enough for him to break that trust.

As his thoughts continued, he turned and saw that two of the others had gotten into an argument. He sighed and thought Really....wow these guys are rather pathetic... He just watched though, but as soon as one threw the punch he immediatly knew it went too far. "HEY...Stop acting like children. We just got back from fighting a war. We're all tired and need sleep methinks. Fighting amuck ourselves isnt going to improve anything. So kindly make up and grow up." He didnt actually step in. He was far to tired to do anything, and he knew he could do nothing, so he just waited for somthing to happen.

Edited December 9, 2008 by Jinsoku Kazekobushi

[Rhapsody]

"Taiyaki..." The word held rage that Ayatsuri was certain wouldn't scare the other boy in the slightest. He didn't look at the Uchiha, because it didn't really make much difference anyways, and relaxed his stance, "That was the first and last time you will stand in front of my fist when it's not meant for you."

If dogs could scowl, Shiranui might have been as his master turned to face him. But Ayatsuri was blind, so what did anything visual do besides constitute a waste? So instead he hopped up and tugged on the boy's pant leg roughly. He wasn't so much chiding him for lashing out at a Gennin than he was chiding him for just lashing out... Where had this angry person come from to replace his Inuzuka master?

The words from Jinsoku caused Ayatsuri to flinch, but he refrained from blasting into a rage. He confided in himself that this was another young ninja who didn't seem to understand fully the ways of the world he had thrust himself into. All the same, Ayatsuri found himself tired of being pressured to 'grow up' and refine himself. Tired of being shown the proper way to eat, and dress, and bathe and groom. Were these kids really so stupid? Or was Ayatsuri just playing the martyr?

"My name is Inuzuka Ayatsuri," he finally corrected himself from before, "Most tend to shorten it to Aya-kun. I am pleased to meet you, Kaidomaru-san." He wasn't please to meet th Nara at all, but for now he could swallow his pride and take the embarrassment of being beaten down by his 'friends.'

ooc: I'll take it... And I was going with the logic that a tiny punch would just knock him out... :/ Even given the numbers, all he did was punch him in the jaw, which definitely wouldn't kill him twice over. I'm reputed to be an awful person around here, or so I've heard, but I wouldn't actually kill Kaidomaru. xD

Also, if you're going to power play over me, at least don't control my character. >_<

Edited December 9, 2008 by Rhapsody

[Baromosa]

Baromosa watched on as the group began a small quarrel, and several people said their piece. The brown eyes of this leaf-nin took in the scene and rested his hand on his arm before looking up from the ground with a smile. "Maybe it's better if we all get a bite to eat together. I've got some extra money kicking around.... will you all join me?" Baro put forward with a genuine look of well doing. Looking over to Taiyaki he grinned slowly and added, "I haven't had a real warm bowel of Ramen in months. How about you guys? If this is a 'team bonding exercise' as you said Kaidomaru..." Baromosa said now directing his head to the Nara, "Then perhaps we can all spend some time together."

[Kouta]

[[i wouldn't have let you kill him....his history took too long to write. xP. But don't worry, I don't hate you at all rhaps.]]

Kaidomaru was shocked at the punch, if you'd be willing to make the understatement of his lifetime. "Shit. Otto always said I mis-calculate." was his single thought, his hands flashing into a ready position. Otto was faster than this kid by far, and a wild, rambunctious scramble was more than in the guts of the ninja, inexperienced he might be. At this point, his hands reacted on instinct, responding to a familiar situation that he his body learned to react to. He had been browbeaten day after day by Otto's massive brute force so often that his body, like a good animal, tensed and immediately fled the conflict, whether Kaidomaru was willing to do so or not. "If anything, I know how to run away!" Was his next thought, his hands finishing the one sign he needed and his chakra surging, the boy already feeling his body undergo the effects of the simple replacement jutsu.

Then he was violently shoved to the ground.

He rolled, his shoulder worse for the wear, but in a much better position than if the Inuzuka had finished the blow, which easily would've sent him to the ground for hours, if not crushed him outright. He looked up at the egos clashing between the two ninja. Inuzuka and this new kid, known by name as Taiyaki, spoken from the thin, rasping voice of the Inuzuka. Kaidomaru visibly shuddered at the barely controlled rage in it, feeling his spine tingle. He rose to his feet, rubbing the shoulder that was sorely bruised.

"That wasn't necessary...Taiyaki, was it? I was perfectly okay...but I thank you nonetheless. Otto always said I mis-calculate under pressure."

Kaidomaru said, his breath coming in a quick, heightened fashion as he struggled to slow his body down, the threat obviously removed, but the threatening person still within inches of him. Immediately, though, Kaidomaru took assessment of the situation. He had to agree, the entire fight had been childish and had no point. Still, he had won a couple of people to at least agree with him, if words were anything. Even still, he had made powerful enemies in the Inuzuka, although that could be fixed with a little work. It still bugged him that he was wrong, though. He expected the Inuzka to break his hand in the shake, not to try and punch him. He vaguely heard the pitch for Ramen, and figured he'd respond in kind, since his name was tossed about.

"I think it'd be your sensei's choice to make. I'm willing to bet he's got something up his sleeve other than ramen. Oh, and Inuzuka-san...My mother never praises my intelligence. She says its flawed and sorely underused. Says I spend too much time on the face that you nearly broke in two."

Kaidomaru was more than careful to give the name its proper detached ending. The animosity was clearly there, and he wouldn't dare use a familiar ending now. It'd be like slapping a wild dog in the face after shooting its foot. Kaidomaru may occasionally mis-calculate, but he wasn't stupid.

[Azure]

Despite the traditional expectation that Soujiro would step in to the fray between the excited shinobi talk, he abstained from all such intrusion. In fact, all three of the partners refrained from even saying a single word in protest. They did not flinch at the approaching Nara, nor did they judge him friend or foe. It appeared to everyone that the band of leaders in this conflict provided no worth in this quarrel. They simply watched the brawl unfold, preceded by a general group comment, reflecting on the outcome. Releasing an audible breath, Soujiro clapped his hands only twice before sending his tongue on an escapade, bringing reality to the situation. “If you wish to kill each other, I will not stop you. The future of Konohagakure no Sato will be left in your hands. Eventually you will realize just what repercussions your actions cause. Though the more forces we have, the easier this will be. To answer your question Baromosa, no, Konohagakure is not safe yet. I took you on that exercise in order to prepare for the final act of this chapter in the Leaf’s history. There is still a force that needs to be dealt with.” Soujiro quietly explained, with not a twinge of aggressive emotion in his words. They were said calmly, in effect to allow the ninja to realize that they would be responsible for themselves and each other. If they wished to deprive one another from life, his hand would not interfere. However the query would arise; was he portraying the truth, his words often did seem to take a sudden. It was in their questionable hands that they would cause each other to flourish or perish.

“The time for eating will come in time; however I fear that we will not have the luxury of sitting down and enjoying a meal. While you all were sleeping, the battles rage on. As most of you were inside of the illusionary realm, you were able to wake by maneuvering aro8und the fact of your weakness and inexperience. The same will occur in this situation- you will have to think and use shinobi wisdom to judge what actions you will take.” Soujiro spoke again, looking at his ever so growing group. Eventually their forces would be found, considering they were fortifying their troops. Carefully placed spies had not announced any word of worry and as he could tell; they were safe. “Today is a special day, for the Daimyo of Hotarunoshi will be traveling to Konohagkure no Sato to meet with our target. From the recent events in Nigiyakashufu, both governmental forces are going to fortify every defense in this land. If we strike at the right time, we’ll end their occupation in this land.” Soujiro quickly elaborated on their current situation and further plans. It was at this point did the shepherd man walk from conversing with one of the Leaf ninja soldiers and approached the mass. His staff almost seemed cane-like as it clacked on the stones scattered about. “It’s been rumored that the Daimyo is the previous sub-captain stationed in Konohagakure no Sato, by the name of Hyuuga Sai. The militant leader of the Ninja Crime Investigation Agency has been replaced only a few months ago, but by the sights and sounds of it; he’s well worth his time. The name of this man is Shiro-Akuma Taizen, with a clouded background.”

As a leaf warrior tore through a cloud ninja, three more replaced his status; causing a mishap and struggle among their forces. Soon, they were quieted and the main group remained unbothered. Time was drawing thin; it could be read in nearly all militaristic faces. “In due time, we must regroup at a fitting location. Ikatsu’s Bakery, three buildings from the Hokage’s tower; on the right side of the street.” Came the vocals of Noel, now joining the pitch of the other two. After his words left his mouth, a swarm of insects blackened the sky, before converging on seven of the leaf ninja protecting the inner group listening to the trio. Soujiro’s eyes turned to the imposing threat, knowing well that their time window was closing. A roar from inside of his throat was their cue. “Go!”

Sorry group, I've been very busy and distracted for the past few days. Anyway, you need a total of 600 words from each person to proceed. You may fight an opposing shinobi if you think you can.

[Baromosa]

Hyuuga Takashi rounded the corner with Kakuzu only to see something worse then just enemies: the enemy imposing on a group of leaf shinobi of mixed ages. None of the faces were familiar to him specifically, but the stance and expressions of the ones he could see were clear: a fight was imminent. Kakuzu was still going to be injured from the sparring match he had requested and lost, so Takashi's mind immediately considered his safety and didn't want him to join in this fighting. Of course, Takashi did not consider himself a full shinobi either and more of a practitioner of self defense and the martial arts.

'These are real shinobi. They are part of my village. Perhaps whatever distraction I can provide can help them take down these enemies. This is my village too, I can fight.' Takashi thought, his white eyes focused on the group on opposing ninja. Kakuzu would make his own decisions as well, and Takashi would not ask him to follow his lead. Stepping forward into the light of the plaza, the Hyuuga boy of 16 stepped forward towards the group with his hands in front of his body ready to drop into a fighting stance. They could all clearly see if they looked in his direction his long black hair tied neatly behind his head, and the bright white silk robe that covered his arms as well as two white Byakugan eyes starring at them all with hot determination.

[246]

Edited December 14, 2008 by Baromosa

[kakuzu]

Kamawagu, Kakuzu then started running stealthily down the road with Takashi, dodging the few citizens around – weaving in and out of crowds and into new paths with no people around. They then stopped short, turned the corner into an ally way toward the plaza district and froze after seeing something far worse then just mere adversaries, the enemy were already in the midst of preparing for battle with a group of leaf shinobi of mixed ages and ranks. None were recognizable or familiar to Kakuzu, although he had seen a few from around the village. It was clear by their stances and expressions on their faces Kakuzu could tell that a fight would soon ensue. Kakuzu although was still injured from the sparring match that he had planned on losing, to see how Takashi had run his operations, although he was not expecting such a full-on onslaught, especially with the hidden mist technique that Kakuzu had used – thinking it was the byakugan that he had provided him the great opportunity. From this, Kakuzu could no longer fight and decided to take a high point to observe the battle, and tactics used on both sides. Kakuzu then looked to Takashi who seemed to be preparing to fight, Kakuzu nodded to Takashi whiling taking out a ninja-mask and wrapping it around his short black hair and black full-circle goatee to be better hidden, he then immediately started chakra-climbing the wall up to the roof, with his dark green eyes showing the strain, exhausted from the sparring prior.

When he had finally reached the top and made it over the ledge, he fell on the ground, worn out, the sparring had really taken a lot out of him, crawling his way to the opposite edge, he made his way up to the ledge, shielded by bushes from a gazebo-garden he was in the perfect location to observe the battle and not be detected. More preparations for battle came, more in a rush now – they all seemed to get in stances, some defensive, most offensive – preparing kunai and other weapons. After a few moments Kakuzu saw Takashi walking out into the plaza preparing his stance as well for battle. Not seen by anybody yet, soon this battle would be a hot zone…. With Kakuzu distressed about not being to help his fellow comrades.

[389 Words]

Edited December 30, 2008 by kakuzu

[Blackrose]

This was an utter joke. What was she thinking, allying herself with these untrained misfits? Even their teacher seemed to be off his rock. She was smart enough to know when people were too stupid to be trusted, and she defiantly knew when it was time to run.

The day seemed to be going completely wrong for the young Sokudo at this point. She had expected to join up with the resistance and be inducted formally into their ranks so she could help them over throw the Ncia in the village. Instead she found herself thrown into the conflict and simply asked to tag along without and explanation or plan. She had no idea the resistance was this disorganized. It made her wonder how they were ever able to take down the capitol. Perhaps they got lucky, or maybe it was just a fluke. Either way the bunch that she had been associated with seemed like nothing more than bumbling idiots who were more prone to attack each other than the enemy. Still, she was now already too deep. The Ncia had probably already tagged her as a rogue or resistance member. Perhaps they had already figured out who she was. Either way, she needed to flee before she was caught, killed, or both.

The Jounin telling her to run was her queue. ”I'm out of here.” She said to the boy with the patch. If he were smart he'd run too. She began to use her bloodline immediately, so as the skies blacked with bugs, Tenka was already quickly on her way away from the battle area. Her legs carried her in an incredible dash that was most defiantly extraordinary for her level of skill. Her clothes as always would begin to heat up, but as long as she didn't enter critical friction they would probably be fine. On more than one occasion, parts of her cloths had been completely torn off, sometimes singed.

As she sped off she headed into the darkened alleys. She ducked in and out of building and shops to avoid detection and to lose anyone that might have possibly been trailing her up till this point. She finally hit a dead end, finding herself in a dingy old bar. The floor smelled of vomit and urine, making the young girl nearly want to vomit. The place, like most of the other establishments, was deserted due to the fighting outside. She used her sleeve to help cover her nose as she rested there for a moment behind the bar counter.

It wasn't too long before she heard footsteps. Quickly she snuck under the counter and remained there. The footsteps entered the bar; there were two sets. ”You sure you saw someone come this way?” the voice of a man asked. ”Yes sir, I could have sworn I saw a shadow come in this direction.” said another, younger sounding, man. Tenka held her breath and stayed perfectly still under the bar counter. Hopefully the men wouldn't be search the entire place for a mere shadow. The footsteps parted and began to look around. The sound of wooden chairs scraping against wooden floors could be heard as the men took a quick look around. Finally one man came towards the bar. Tenka hid in the shadow holding herself in a ball so that nothing will stick out. She felt the counter vibrate as the man rested his elbows on it. He was right above her looking over the counter. He took a quick look around, but he couldn't see her underneath him without moving to the other side of the bar counter.

It seemed like forever. Tenka held her breath, her heart beating rapidly within her chest. The man seemed as if he were about to come over the counter when sudden the old man called out. ”It looks clear. You were probably seeing things. Let's get back to the patrol.” he said. The younger man eased off the counter and began walking the other way. Tenka remained still until she heard both set of feet exit the bar. She let out a small sigh of relief, but declined to move for a few minutes. Finally, after about ten minutes of suspenseful waiting the girl emerged from underneath the bar and stretched out. 'That was far too close. I need to get to the rendezvous point.' She thought as she carefully slipped back into the alleyway. She was sure this time to completely stick to the shadows and avoid any patrols that she saw coming her way.

The battles could be heard clearly all over. Tenka was being more cautious as she approached the Hokage's tower. If she were caught there it would be over for her and the bunch that was preparing to meet there. Finally the shop was in range. There were more patrols around this area since she was so close to the Hokage's tower. She had to be extra careful that she wasn't seen. She darted from shadow to shadow. With one last push she reached the door as fast as she could. She made it, ”Ya ta! She said relieved as she pushed entered.

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Words: 862

[MADrandom]

As the duo finally reached the gates of Konoha, Iki was beginning to feel a bit more relieved. The sight of her home must have energized her a bit more, making her feel a bit more willing to continue on despite the danger. Kaori was right behind her making sure that they weren't followed. The sounds of battle that Iki had been listening to in the forest had now grown hundreds of times louder. It seemed as though there was no avoiding it. Iki would have to fight, or at least pick a side and help. She only had medical experience and combat wasn't exactly her forte.

The little twelve-year-old finally pushed through into Konoha with Kaori. ”This place is such a mess.” She said with a slight feeling of sadness in her voice as she looked upon her broken home. ”Kaori-san, I want to help. I didn't want to have to pick a side; I'm a healer not a fighter. I-I just can't stand to see my home like this.” She said nearly begging Kaori to let her help. Even if she couldn't fight she could at least provide aid to them. Medical ninja were always needed in some way.

[Words: 201]

[cntrstrk14]

Keeping still and watching as the plot unfolded, Tsubasa would hold his tongue for the moment as the jounin talked on about the future of Konoha. As he explained that the fighting had been going on why they were asleep a spark of rage would ignite inside the young man.

‘What the hell?! There were innocent people being hurt and allies under attack while we just sat here under and induced sleep? How much time were we wasting under that technique when we could have been doing something, anything to help!? Do these idiots not realize the importance of time?', Tsubasa thought to himself as he also began to question the sanity and intelligence of these men standing before him. The one called Soujiro was definitely a person that Tsubasa would keep his eye on, but this priest did not seem much better.

Before Tsubasa could voice any disparagement though, the young man next to him would softly say something about leaving and then turn and address him. Without a hint of hesitation the boy sped off with speeds that were far beyond what Tsubasa could achieve. Turning to look at the onslaught of bugs that reminded him of a scene from a story, he would begin to run as well, moving in the same direction that the fast boy had traveled. As he neared the edge of an alley he would scale a box and jump up against a wall, pushing off and climbing to the opposite rooftop. As he would land, Tsubasa would continue to move along the rooftops towards the Hokage's Tower. Above the streets there was not much fighting, but the sound was much louder. People shouting and small explosions could be heard scattered across the village, echoing around as the battles raged forwards. Pushing the thoughts out of his head, Tsubasa would continue along the rooftops, coming to the edge of a building and leaping forward across the gap, passing overhead of those below on the street. As he landed with a soft thud on the opposite side, Tsubasa would roll to take the impact from his feet before popping back up and continuing onward.

Coming to the edge of the building, Tsubasa would hear a shout from below. Looking down he would see a young genin like himself running from a rather large looking ninja in a gray vest. As the genin turned an alley to escape, Tsubasa would move without much thought, taking the small leap off the edge of the building as the man ran underneath. Without a word he would fall through the air, legs bend slightly as he watched his target. With a sudden crash Tsubasa would land with both knees on the man's shoulders, sending a shockwave through his body as he heard a snap. Quickly pushing off the man's head and shoulders, Tsubasa would push off in front of him and quickly take off, putting distance between him and the man.

‘I heard the collar bone snap so he should be significantly weakened, but I have no idea what his combat abilities are. Best to run for now.', he thought as he turned the corner the other genin had. He could hear the man let out a roar of pain and frustration as he probably realized the extent of his own injury. Before he could realize what had happened or recover from the shock of the blow Tsubasa was around another corner and gone, along with the genin who probably never would know what saved him.

Rounding another corner, Tsubasa would see the Hokage's Tower ahead, and the rendezvous point nearby. Moving to the alley, Tsubasa would make his way towards the back of the building, finding the rear exist and letting himself inside. Luckily the door was unlocked, which was in truth a bit unsettling. Regardless he moved in silently, closing the door behind him. Just as he arrived though he would hear the front door opening, and looking across the room he would see the speedster boy enter as well.

"Hey.”

675 words

[Kouta]

Nigh on immediately after Kaidomaru spoke, a new child entered the throng, adding to their group. Immediately, he betrayed his origin, his eyes shining of the white within white of the Hyuuga Clan. ”So the first of the scapegoat bloodlines has arrived. I wondered when I’d meet one of them. They crawl around like insects, so profuse are they in number.” Kaidomaru’s candid thoughts relayed his feelings of the Hyuugan and Uchiha Clans. Luckily, none of the red eyed demons had shown themselves in the group. For that he counted himself lucky. At least most of the Hyuugan sons were honor-bound people, with at least some sort of reserves and manners. The Uchiha, for the most part, were upstart little bastards, arrogant if nothing else, and overmuch proud of their pinwheel eyes. Kaidomaru moved to greet the child, but the sensei interrupted, talking down to them, chastening them for wanting to kill each other. Kaidomaru expected it, since he HAD instigated the fight. The Inuzuka deserved the lip, however, and he did not regret the action, nor would he if his jaw were now dislocated, which, thanks to Taiyaki, it wasn’t.

The sensei, and his two companions, of whom Kaidomaru wasn’t the least bit familiar, were soon thrown into panic, as a Kumo ninja broke the line, only to be swiftly cut down. Following the slight interruption, one of the elder men had barely the time to spit out a rendez-vous location before a swarm of insects cascaded into the area, seeking to sweep the ninja from their location. Kaidomaru wondered if they were perhaps the work of a son of the Aburame, the Kekkai Bugs that clan was famous for. Kaidomaru had little time to investigate, as a strong contingent of the bugs wrapped themselves his way, just as one of the girls he had yet to meet struck off from the area, blitzing down the lane in what had to be a chakra-aided sprint. The bugs chasing her soon gave up, turning about to attack a new target, perhaps a slower one.

Well, Kaidomaru provided a perfect target.

He instantly dropped into a crouch, fully intending to run, but he knew he couldn’t outrun any bugs. So instead, he let them come as close as he dared before two handsigns flashed in front of him, his chakra flaring up in his body. He went for some of the only jutsu he knew, the shadow from the wall stretching and linking with his own. ”Kagemane no Jutsu!” He intoned, his shadows stretching out and latching onto the mass of shadows that belonged to the bugs. In such close proximity, Kaidomaru captured most, if not all, of the cloud in a single shot, and the bugs hung in mid-air, restless. Kaidomaru simply stopped jumped up in the air as high as he could, then stood perfectly still as he came down. While to Kaidomaru, the move was nothing, to the bugs, they soared up, and thren, of all things, their wings quit flapping.

A host of bugs hit the ground with an inaudible splattering.

Kaidomaru smirked, releasing the jutsu and turning to run, the few bugs left easy work a kunai to slice through, or his finger to pinch down when they landed on him. Before long he had broken out of the fighting zone, fully intending to NOT get caught anytime soon. He raced down back streets and alleys, places he knew well through useless boyhood exploration. This was his city, after all, and while his mental map was rusty, forcing him to occasionally use the main streets, for the most part he was fine hurdling over fences and running between buildings. ”Maybe Otto was right. I DON’T come to the city enough.” Kaidomaru thought, just as a voice rounded the corner. He slammed himself up against a wall, in the shadow of a dumpster, and he immediately gripped the shadow with his chakra, wrapping himself in the light-averting material. The man, an NCIA sentry, passed without a second glance at the kid, who appeared as no more than a shadowed corner next to a dumpster.

”Ha!” Kaidomaru smirked on the inside, slowly rising and pounding off in the opposite direction from the guard, going where he had just passed and would be the least likely to patrol again anytime soon. Kaidomaru flitted from shadow to shadow, passing behind buildings until the Hokage’s tower rose in his vision. He still had some ways to traverse, but the tower was in sight now, and the sounds of joined battle where far behind the boy…

[764 Words]

Edited December 17, 2008 by Kouta

[Blackrose]

(ooc: Kouta, my character is disgused as a boy ^^)

Tenka jumped to see the boy in front of her. ”How the hell…” She began before realizing why she had been so late, ”You must have had better luck with the patrols than I did.” She told him walking further into the place and grabbing a seat. ”I see we were the only smart ones?” She asked looking around for more people, ”Those idiots, what were they thinking just standing there in the open.”

As she began to relax she felt and urge to take off her hat and let her hair out. She felt so sweaty and dirty. Unfortunately, there was no place to shower and no time two. ”So I guess it's just us for now.” She had no idea what to say really. She wasn't big with small talk.

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Words: 132

Total: 994

Edited December 17, 2008 by Blackrose

[Baromosa]

The group of leaf shinobi began to depart, running from the crash of insects. A shadow user of all people quickly began to strategize a end to the bugs, slamming them back down into the earth before they could do much harm. The Hyuuga boy however could not afford to jump into the engagement like the Nara had done and still watch out for his friend in the roof tops. Staying in stance, he carefully backed up with careful footwork until he could see other leaf shinobi in his peripheral vision. Some of them had already turned and ran away from the scene, only a few stragglers remaining behind for any clue to there where abouts.

The Nara that had stopped the bugs had ran off behind him, which Takashi considered strange after the heroic response to the attack. 'There are several locations they might have gone off too.... the question is whether it was cowardice or strategy?' He considered for a moment before glancing to his side to see Kakuzu on the roof top ready to get on the move. A high point would be advantageous to determine where the shinobi were headed, but before Takashi decided to meet Kakuzu his mind wrapped around that idea in a new way. 'Perhaps they didn't run to be safe, but they didn't want to become trapped in this plaza. They need a high ground.... the former Hokage's tower? Or they might have left the city. Either way, I can trace them better from a high location.' Takashi concluded and quickly dropped his stance in favor of flight. Whisking his thin and agile body into an alley, he turned sharp like a deer and bounded up a crate and window sills to let his palm touch the thatched roof of the building on the edge of the plaza. Lifting himself up and over, Takashi landed on his knees and quickly tossed his head up at Kakuzu. "Kakuzu, we need to leave. We might have walked into a trap and I want to follow the other shinobi. Help me watch them from the roof tops."

Turning quickly, Takashi leaped in his next jump to gracefully touch over to the next roof. His arms were left to hand behind him when he burst into a light run, jumping over the edges as he could but forced to leave them for side roads occasionally as he tried to catch up to the fleeing shinobi. Half the time he had to use his instinct and just pursue a general direction rather then a specific path since the main members of the group had gained much distance in a short time. Takashi turned his head around once to check up on Kakuzu, then the light Hyuuga boy increased his speed above everyone's heads as he elected the rooftop paths towards the 'Hokage's' tower. He was not alone, as he could see other younger boys taking similar paths confirming Takashi's suspicion he was correct about the meeting place. Even if he was incorrect, at least the shinobi he followed would not mislead him. All he had to do now was not lose them, which was no easy feat. If Takashi had any less agility and grace, his feet would have failed him by now. Once or twice his foot nearly gave to a loose shingle or two, but a quick adjustment and jump saved his neck and he once again was on track. One of the shinobi with black hair was closest to him, so Takashi would follow him for now. If all else failed, he would have to rely on his Byakugan eyes once he reached the tower.

Words: 611

Total: 857

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Kaori herself was glad that Iki had made it, but the situation was not safe in the city. "There is no time for that shower yet Iki." She muttered in a way to Iki but mostly as a sigh to herself. But it would be Iki that would give the impassioned plea to give aide and service. Glancing down at the young girl, a soft smile spread over her lips. "That is good, because before the day is done we will need you. Come on though, we can't stay here in the open. We will take the less traveled path... and try to regroup with the others." Kaori informed her, beckoning her to run in the shadows and the alleys. If they were lucky, the patrols would not bother them.

Edited December 17, 2008 by Baromosa

[Kouta]

[[Forgive Forgive. I came in late and skimmed everything prior.]]

Kaidomaru didn’t worry too much about running down the lane to the bakery. Whats was the point? He’d blend in much more by simply walking with the foot-traffic that passed in front of the Hokage’s tower. So all he did was make sure his hatai-ate was hidden, and strolled out into the flow of people. At the very least, people provided human shields if he were attacked, so he stayed about three people deep, looking out for the sign. He could barely recall the hurried words of the man, but Ikifitsu Bakery kept staying in his head, so he looked about for a bakery of similar name. Kaidomaru was generally left alone as the crowd slowly progressed to the location. He actually passed it once, and had to loop back around before he could stroll into the bakery, a small bell tolling as he entered.

He immediately noticed the really fast kid from before, and the more stoic boy who had witnessed his altercation with the Inuzuka. He didn’t say much to them as he crossed to a table and sat down, acting completely normal, in case anyone from the street decided to peer in. Anonymity was good. He, like the speedy kid, was in lack of good small talk, so he simply nodded to the comment. ”Don’t worry. The rest will come here eventually. I doubt many of them can do much fighting, by the looks of em.” Kaidomaru said, and began to play the waiting game…

[260 Words]

[1024 Words Total]

Edited December 17, 2008 by Kouta

[MADrandom]

Iki's small lips curled upward into a cute little smile. ”Thank's Kaori!” She replied her soft voice betraying her appearance. So far only two people knew that she was a girl, but she was beginning to see less of a reason to hide herself now. Pulling off her hat once more she stuffed it into one of her pockets. She quickly heeded Kaori's advice and accompanied her into the dark alleyway. ”So where are our friends? Do we even know where to go?” She asked hearing the sounds of a battle somewhere nearby. Hopefully they found allies and not enemies in there search. Who knows, maybe Iki would be able to help after all.

[102]

(303 Total)

Edited December 17, 2008 by MADrandom

[cntrstrk14]

Tsubasa would stand near the table, not taking a seat yet. Keeping his back towards the wall so that he could see both the front and back entrances he nodded at the speedy boy's comment.

"Yeah, from the 'fight' we had earlier I would say that most of them are not any better off than me.", he would say, more of less forcing a line of conversation from his lips. He was not very interested in either of the two, though the Nara had peaked his interest early only by his words, and the young boy by his fast movement abilities.

[Twilight711]

Walking into the bakery in town a girl with long silver hair and gentle emerald eyes looked around. She was to pick her mother up some bread for dinner that night. Pushing her hair from her face she tied it to the side beofre walking to the counter and smiling to the boy. "Hello," she whispered with a nodd.

[Baromosa]

The boy he had been following dodged inside a bakery, near a street crowded with people. Takashi's appearence wasn't all that unusual, except of course for his pure white eyes that seemed clear of any pupil, so he thought that after quick observation he could risk moving inside to find out exactly what had been transpiring.

The time for roof top running was over with, so Takashi walked among the crowd briefly until he approached the bakery window. Indeed, the shadow user who had stopped the bugs and the black haired boy he had trailed were waiting inside along with others. Taking a step into the bakery, an awkward expression spread across his face as he stepped to the side and took a seat to wait. Not sure of what to say, his lips moved as if to ask a question before closing again.