Jesse's And Natsumi's Hide-Out [Etânaru Sunô-Hebi Douketsu]

[Jackums]

Map Location
http://i42.tinypic.com/116hmjs.jpg
Pictures - Hideout Entrance
http://i43.tinypic.com/5zgv0p.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/qn4idx.jpg
Located south-east of Konoha is Jesse and Natsumi's hide-out (marked on the map, by a "X"). Deep in the forest is a small clearing, in which a waterfall is located. Behind this large waterfall is a large stone boulder. It has been sealed with the 5-Seal Barrier technique, making it extremely hard to infliltrate. Although, the fun doesn't end there. Kyōmen Shūja no Jutsu (Mirrored Sudden Attacker Technique) has been used as a second defense, in case someone does discover the location of the hide-out. Although, to discover such a well hidden area would be almost impossible. As shown on the map, the hide-out is in a very isolated and secluded area, which is also hidden is forest terrain.

FIVE SEALS BARRIER
This technique creates a barrier around a place by placing four "Forbidden" (禁, kin) tags around a fifth. The only way to remove the barrier is by removing all five tags simultaneously. Not only would this require a group of at least five people, it also requires an immense search, since the four tags can be scattered in any direction, as far as 800 meters from the fifth seal. This makes breaking through this barrier almost impossible.

Even if the barrier is broken, there is a final obstacle. The Mirrored Sudden Attacker Technique will create perfect copies of those who have removed the seal, preventing them from returning immediately.
MIRRORED SUDDEN ATTACKER TECHNIQUE
This technique is automatically activated when the "Forbidden" (禁, kin) tags creating the Five Seals Barrier are removed. An exact copy of the person who removed the tag will appear from the nearby ground and attack. From appearance to battle skill, everything is copied perfectly. The only difference is that the copy has a fixed amount of stamina, giving it an advantage in a drawn-out battle.
COMPLETE INVISIBILITY BARRIER
This technique creates a barrier over a large area which completely blocks all forms of tracking. If someone with a tracking ability enters the area this barrier covers, their ability will become confused and they will soon find it impossible to continue using this ability. In the center of this barrier (the base), the barrier is non-existent, therefore allowing anyone inside of the base to continue using all tracking/sensing abilities.

[Jackums]

Natsumi arrived outside of a great waterfall, with Hikari on her back. It was Jesse's hide-out. She made a handsign, as the waterfall parted down the middle. It revealed a large stone boulder with a tag on it. She made another handsign, and the boulder began to move, revealing the entrance. She was about to walk in, when a messanger bird came down, and landed on her shoulder. She made a concerned face, and read it. Natsumi was worried. She put Hikari down, "I need you to stay here, okay? You'll be safe inside. You can pick a bedroom. Anyone you want. Either me or Jesse will be back, in a few hours." Natsumi didn't want to leave her alone, but she had no choice. "I'm sorry."

[Kaizor]

Hikari looked worried. She hated when Jesse or Natsumi left her. She idolized both of them, but she nodded. "Okay...if you say so..." she said, looking saddened. She walked inside of the hideout, picking a random bedroom, one that looked the nicest to her. She put her backpack down and began unpacking all of her stuff. "I hope Jesse gets back soon...I haven't seen him at all today..."

[Jackums]

OOC: The Hide-out is similar to orochimaru's, in shippuden, when they find Sasuke. Just so you have an idea what its like, :]
___________________________________

Natsumi didn't want to leave Hikari. But she knew she would be safe. After she'd walked in, she Natsumi made a handsign. The waterfall closed, and the boulder also. She then looked up at the sky, as her hair blew gently in the wind. She made a handsign, and disappeared.

[Kaizor]

Hikari sighed as she continued unpacking. She took out an old picture frame. She dusted it off, it was a picture of her parents and her, and her older brother, who was also killed long ago. She stared at the picture in sadness for a moment, then put it on the table near her bed. She then continued her process of unpacking, taking out the few belongings she brought, which wasn't many stuff.

She set her bag aside after she finally finished unpacking, her room looking neat after a few minutes of working. She sat on her bed gently and lied down. She suddenly felt sleepy. Within minutes, she dozed off and fell asleep. Her breathing slow and steady.

[Jackums]

OOC: I added one more thing to my first post. Go read it please, :]

[Kaizor]

Hikari awoke from her short nap, discovering that she couldn't sleep well just yet. She hopped off of the bed and walked through the hideout, deciding to check out the place. She looked outside with the waterfall. "Jesse and Natsumi really keep this place hidden." Hikari said to herself, then her mind drifted off to thoughts of Jesse and Natsumi. "What's taking them so long to come back...?" she asked in a worried tone with her hands on her chest. She stood at the entrance of the hideout, waiting for them to return. She listened to the sound of the roaring waterfalls, so peaceful. It calmed her to an extent, but she was still thinking about Jesse and Natsumi.

[RasenganWarrior]

New rules

22. Summons regulations
People will be allowed only one summon animal/type
Summons must be controlled similar to clones with the added benefit of participating in dialogue.
23. Ckra/plasma/food pills are against the rules during battles. They are way to cheap and have prolonged fights that need to end. People spam these to easily.

[Jackums]

Jesse's water clone had finally made it. He appeared out the front of the waterfall, as he made a handsign, and it parted down the middle. Hikari was standing behind the waterfall. Jesse's clone appeared beside her. "Hikari, I'm taking you to Konoha for the day. You can see your family and friends there if you like. I'm just a clone of Jesse, but he should be arriving soon", the clone said, in an assuring tone.

[Kaizor]

Hikari's eyes and face glimmered with happiness. Even if it was a clone just seeing Jesse's face made her feel special. She nearly gave a fangirl squeal. "Jesse! Thank god!" she ran toward him and hugged him tight. She then captured what he said about Konoha. She nodded. "Sure, I'd love to go." she let go of Jesse. "I haven't been to Konoha in a long time...I hear they've been attacked a lot recently though."

[Jackums]

Jesse's clone smiled, and laughed quietlly. "Yea. They've been attacked a lot over the last few weeks, but recently, its been a lot better. Jesse has defeated Keisu Myakkan, and most of the of the strong shinobi are gathered at Yukigakure. So, there are no real threats to Konoha, at the moment. Not that we're aware of anyway. And.. we need to pick someone up.. Anyway. you ready?" he said, his arms still around Hikari.

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OOC: I changed the plan for getting Ruby. If you read her biography, it told the legend that a girl with crimson hair and ruby eyes would master the clan kekkei-genkai. This being Ruby. And her clan is friend with many people, one including Jesse. They made a deal that he could take Ruby in a train her, when she turned 14. But she obviously had to agree with this. they weren't going to force her or anything. And Ruby said yes. Her 14th B'day was recently, so Jesse is going to get her now. :]]

[Kaizor]

Hikari smiled, "I am ready." although she couldn't help but wonder how the real Jesse was doing in the battle with Kane. "Let's go," she smiled, brushing her bright pink hair behind her back.

OOC: Alright, sounds good. LET'S GO ON ANOTHER ADVENTURE

[Jackums]

Jesse's clone nodded. "Okay, get on my back." he said, smiling and turning around.

OOC: Okay. lol. Well, when we leave, you'll have to post first in the Konoha thread. Cause' i posted before, and i can't double post and all. :]

[Kaizor]

"Sure," Hikari jumped on Jesse's back in a playful manner. She held on tight.

OOC: You can always edit your post, although I'll post first if you want.

[Jackums]

Jesse's clone nodded, and ran out towards the forest, on the way to Konoha. The hide-out closed as they left, followed by the waterfall. They should be at Konoha quickly.

OOC: Okay, I edited my post, :]

[Jackums]

Jesse's hide out was a long way from Konoha, and he had to go slow, for Ruby and Hikari. So, it took them about 5 hours to arrive. It wa now 4:30pm just as they arrived. They were jumping from branch-to-branch when they came to a clearing, with a large waterfall. "Here we are. I'll open the entrance for you, and then you two can check the place out and wait until Jesse returns". The clone walked up to the waterfall, and performed a handisgn. The waterfall parted, revealing a large stone boulder, which began to slide to the side. The clone then turned to face Ruby and Hikari. "Have fun", he said, as he bursted into water.

Ruby was excited. She'd never been out of Konoha before. She held Keiko in her arms as she ran towards the entrance. Jumping across stepping stones in the water. She turned to Hikari, "C'mon" she said excitedly.

[Kaizor]

Hikari followed Ruby inside. "It's a pretty big place...I just checked it out a few hours ago. Want to have a tour of the place with me?" Hikari politely asked.

[Jackums]

Ruby nodded, and smiled. She was excited to train too. "Where do i put my things?" she asked, kindly.

[Kaizor]

"You can pick a room and drop your stuff off in there," Hikari replied looking down the hallway where the room doors where. She pointed to the one she was in. "That's my room over there, so pick one of these and enjoy."

[Jackums]

Ruby looked at her kitten she was grasping in her arms. "Which one keiko?" she asked. She laughed, and then picked the one two doors up from Hikari's. She opened the door, and quickly sat her backpack down on the bed as she glanced around the room. She was too excited to unpack right now. She turned around and closed the door. She looked at Hikari, "Okay, let's look around!"

[Kaizor]

"Awesome, just follow me," Hikari walked out and led Ruby first to the dining room. "This is the dining room...it's pretty big for only a few people living here but the more room the better," she chuckled. Walking through the dining room as the kitchen was only down the hall. "Well, this is Jesse's favorite place in the hideout," she joked with an innocent smile.

[Jackums]

Ruby laughed, and blushed. Keiko made a meowing sound, as if he could understand what they were talking about. They all left the kitchen. The place never seemed to end. So many hallways and doors. Ruby was walking around looking in the different rooms, when she saw a staircase, leading to a lower level. The lower level was where Jesse had ancient scrolls, and documents. There were rooms where Natsumi had been experimenting, to develop powerful curse marks, etc. There were rooms, filled with herbs and ingredients, where Natsumi had been making antidotes, and healing ointments. Ruby was hesitant to go down, as she wasn't sure if she was allowed. She turned back to Hikari. "Wanna go train?" she said, smiling and slightly blushing.

[Kaizor]

Hikari seemed to brighten rooms with her smile as she answered, "Sure. I'd like to see what you're capable of anyway...although I'm not all that good yet either," she said with a slight blush.

[Jackums]

"Yay!", Ruby ran down the seemingly endless hallways, making her way to the entrance, as she waited for Hikari to follow.

[Kaizor]

Hikari followed Ruby to the entrance, but she walked like she was taking her time. "Alright, let's go."

[Jackums]

As they arrived at the entrance, Ruby jumped across the stepping stones, on the water. She stepped out into the clearing, with Keiko in her arms. She tied her hair up, and took a battle stance.

[Kaizor]

Hikari arrived on the opposite end of Ruby, facing her opponent for the training session. She took a different battle stance. "I'll offer the first strike to you," Hikari smiled, again innocently.

[Jackums]

Ruby smiled in agreement. She gently sat Keiko down on the ground beside her. She slowly stood, as she grabbed a kunai out of her pouch. She was very intelligent and strategic when it came to battles. She began running at Hikari, holding the kunai in front of her chest, ready for Hikari's reaction.

[Kaizor]

Hikari reached for a kunai also in her pouch, and she held it close to her chest as well. She was waiting for Ruby to strike first. She also pulled something else out of her pouch with her second hand, but she hid it.

[Jackums]

Ruby grabbed three shuriken with her free hand, throwing them at Hikari as she ran towards her, still holding the kunai to her chest. She was about 3 metres away from Hikari at this point.

[Kaizor]

Hikari deflected two shuriken with her kunai and jumped to her left to avoid the last shuriken. She was hiding two shuriken in the wedges between her fingers. She threw them at Ruby, throwing them in a special way so they would spin more and could even guide them better through the air. She was skilled with ninja weaponry for her age.

[Jackums]

Ruby only just saw the shuriken at the last second. She deflected one with her kunai, but the other lightly cut her shoulder. She payed no attention to the wound as it was barely a scratch. She then threw eight more shuriken. Four in each hand.

[Kaizor]

Hikari jumped stylishly in the air to avoid the shuriken, deflecting about 3 while she was at it, but one cut her on her left arm slightly. She didn't like watching herself bleed or others close to her bleed, but it wasn't that bad. She landed on the ground and pulled out a summong scroll, summoning a strange weapon. A thin wire only visible in the sunlight and with 10 shuriken attached to it. She channeled chakra through the air and threw the whole thing at Ruby, the shuriken spinning like windmills so it picked up speed.

[Jackums]

Ruby did a cart wheel, dodging most of the shuriken. The others she deflected with her Kunai. She pulled out three kunai, and threw them at Hikari. Unknowingly to Hikari, there were actually three more kunai in the shadows of the first two. Instantly after she threw the kunai, she pulled at something in the air. It seemed she had wire attached to the shuriken she threw earlier. They all lifted, and shot at Hikari from behind.

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OOC: ROFL! You serious? I was just doing the whole "wired shuriken" thing. HAHA. this is gonna be good, x3

[Kaizor]

Hikari blocked the incoming kunai with her own, but she was caught off gaurd with the extras thrown at her, so she was hit. She got cut across the right side of her stomach and once across her left arm again, closer to her shoulder. More blood ran down her wounds but again it wasn't too serious, so she didn't mind too much. Hikari pulled the wire she had attached to her 10 shuriken earlier and jerked it towards her with a flick of her wrist, moving the shuriken up to block and deflect Ruby's. "You're better than I thought," she smiled acknowledging her opponent.

OOC: That's just so freaking hawt.

[Jackums]

Ruby blushed. "You're good too. You defended against my attack perfectly." she said also acknowledging her opponent. "But you missed one thing.." She smiled, as she made a handsign. One of the kunai, that had been in the shadow of the other had a paper bomb wrapped around it. They weren't hidden in the shadow of the other kunai just to catch Hikari off-guard. They were also there to conceal the hidden explosive tag, Ruby had attached to the kunai when Hikari was dodging the shuriken earlier. As Ruby made the handsign, the Kunai a metre behind Hikari exploded. A cloud of smoke formed as all of the birds in the nearby forest flew out of the trees at the sound of the explosion. Ruby took a firm stance, holding a kunai in her hand, waiting for the smoke to clear. The paper bomb was of low level. Only meant to cause burns, and possible small wounds to the body. Ruby didn't want to injure Hikari, as they were only sparring.

[Kaizor]

Hikari barely jumped out of the explosion. She didn't anticipate that. Ruby knew what she was doing. "Wow... I didn't see that coming, I have to compliment you on that," Hikari said, pulling out a smoke bomb. She threw it at Ruby, but wasn't aiming to hit her, but rather land on the ground in front of her. Smoke arose from the bomb like an explosion just went off though there was no explosion. She still held the wire as she performed a hand sign. "In one of my shuriken, I also placed a paper bomb, but it's hidden well within the edge of the shuriken." one shuriken detonated. It was about 20 centimeters away to Ruby's west side. Though like Ruby's it wasn't meant to cause serious injuries.

[Jackums]

Ruby attemtped to evade the explosion at the last second. She knew she couldn't escape it, as it was too close. She was about to leap to the side, when she tripped, and the force from the explosion, although small, made her slide along the ground for about 2 metres. She wasn't burnt, as she'd already fell over before it exploded. She slowly stood up. "Wow. You're good." she said, complimenting Hikari. She made a series of handsigns, and said "Phoenix Flower Jutsu". She breathed in a lot of air. As she exhaled, she shot multiple balls of fire at Hikari. At the same time, she threw 8 shuriken which seemed to fly past Hikari.

-----------------------------------------------------

OOC: Well, its bedtime for me. 6:36am this time. haha. Nightt.

[Kaizor]

Hikari performed hand signs, and at her command expandable wings appeared at her back, with cool colors that symbolize nature. The wings blew in the air, deflecting the shuriken away. Then came the Phoenix Flower Jutsu. She jumped out of the way just in time by using her wings to speed herself up. She barely made it but she did. She smiled at Ruby and put her hands on her hips. "Not bad, you made me bring this out," she said pointing to her wings. They flapped gently in the air and were beautiful to look at, yet also deadly.

[Jackums]

Ruby smiled. "They're so beautiful" she replied, blushing as she looked at Hikari's beautiful wings. Ruby turned to Keiko, who had been sitting down quietly licking itself. It was used to fighting, and was a special breed of cat. So, it could remain completely peaceful in the midst of a battle. It walked up to Ruby, and sat at her feet, with its eyes half closed. It was still a bit sleepy. She performed a series of handsigns. "Best mimicry". Suddenly, Keiko transformed into a clone of Ruby. Both of their nails grew slightly, and chakra came from their bodies. They both charged at Hikari, extremely fast.

[Kaizor]

"Thank you," Hikari said in a sweet tone, but then turned suddenly serious when Ruby and Keiko charged at her. She flapped her graceful wings in the wind, it seemed to glitter in the sunlight with much radiance, forcing a great amount of wind to expel from the wings. It had enough force to blow back a large animal, but with Ruby and Keiko charging at such high speed they can fight it, and maybe beat it if they're strong and durable enough.

[Jackums]

Ruby was at first phased by the wind. But she got her determination back. She looked at Keiko, and nodded, as if he understood without Ruby even speaking. Ruby made a handsign quickly, "Phoenix Flame ~ Fang Over Fang". Keiko jumped on Ruby's back, and both began to spin extremely fast, as fire formed around them both, as they sped at Hikari. The wind making the fire all the more stronger. This attack could be harmful. Although un-intentional.

[Kaizor]

Hikari gasped with fear. She didn't have anything that could counter this. She enveloped her wings around her body for attempted protection, but it only helped so much. "Aah!" she screamed as she fell down, burnt from the attack. The burns weren't very serious, but Hikari being the type of girl who didn't look being in pain or seeing others in pain, it was painful for her. She gasped again as she sat up, looking at Ruby, her eyes showing defeat. "...Nice job." she congratulated Ruby, but her voice was kind of scratchy.

[Jackums]

Right after impact, Ruby's technique died out, as she hadn't yet mastered the technique. Ruby saw the burns, and got worried straight away. She ran over to Hikari, and kneeled down beside her, with a guilty face. "I'm so sorry! omg, are you hurt?" Ruby's eyes began to tear. She didn't like hurting people. Especially her friends.

[Kaizor]

Hikari held her left arm that was burnt the worst. She looked at Ruby in disbelief. She answered in a slightly cold tone. "I'm fine...thanks." she thought Ruby did it intentional. She should have known fire would be strong against wind, but she didn't know how much control of the jutsu she had. She looked away for a moment, brushing her pink glimmering in the beautiful sunlight. She couldn't stay mad at Ruby though, she seemed so sincere.

[Jackums]

Ruby felt the negativity, coming from Hikari. She looked at her, and began crying. Trying not to show it. She felt bad for what she did. And she didn't have much time to react after she'd started the jutsu. She rubbed her eyes, and tried to look away.

[Kaizor]

Hikari sensed she was sad, and trying to hide it. Hikari was actually a very observant girl, she realized stuff others normally wouldn't, even people twice her age. She walked toward Ruby and put her hand on her shoulder. She couldn't stay mad at her, it's not like she meant any harm towards it. "I'm sorry I said it like that...I know you didn't mean to, and that's good enough for me," her smile had the capacity to brighten up most things in a dark situation.

[Jackums]

Ruby wiped the tears from her cheek. She looked up at Hikari, as her watery eyes glistened in the sun. She smiled, in relief. "Thanks" she stood up, and wiped the dirt of her clothes. She noticed her hair was all dirty and messed up. "Aww damn. My hair" she said, as she tried wiping the dust off. "How about we go shower?" she asked, excitedly. Ruby was obsessed with her hair. She never left it dirty, even before battle.

[Kaizor]

Hikari smiled, "Sounds like a wonderful idea to me...so much has happened lately I just feel all dirty," she said as she began walking inside of the hideout, waiting for Ruby to follow. "I'll show you the way to the bathrooms."

[Jackums]

OOC: Ooh, now the storie's getting somewhere :p lol. JKS.

Ruby smiled in agreement, as she followed Hikari. She was just walking in, when the wind began blowing, and pink lightning and leaves began swirling, in the clearing. It was Natsumi and Miu. They walked towards the entrance. Ruby was afraid, as she didn't know them. As they walked towards her, she grabbed a Kunai out, and threw it at Miu. And flipped backwards. "Who are you?!" she asked, a little scared.

[Kaizor]

Hikari quickly glanced at Natsumi and Miu then Ruby. She walked in the middle of Ruby and Natsumi and Miu. "It's okay! They're friends with Jesse, don't be alarmed," Hikari assured Ruby facing her. She turned around and faced Natsumi and Miu now, her face was showing the worry she felt. "Wh-where's Jesse? Howcome he didn't come too..?" she asked, almost afraid to hear the answer. She expected the worst.

[Jackums]

Miu disappeared as the kunai neared her. She appeared behind Hikari, and licked her cheek. She laughed quitely. "Are you afraid, little girl?" she continued laughing.

Natsumi began walking towards Hikari and Ruby. "Cut it out Miu. Leave them alone" she said, in a serious voice. She walked over, and looked at Hikari's injured arm. "What happened?" she asked, a concerned tone to her voice.

Miu stood, and flicked her pink hair back. "Hmph. Fine. I was just having a little fun", she complained as she walked into the hideout. Natsumi looked at her, and rolled her eyes.

She turned her gaze back to Hikari, as she held her hands out, and began healing her arm. She was a master of medical jutsu. A burn like this would heal almost instantly. "Jesse is just gone temporarily. He'll be back in a few days. I know i told you that before, but something came up. I'm sorry. But, we'll be here" she smiled, a soothing smile as she finished healing Hikari's arm.

Ruby noticed Hikari's trust for Natsumi, and felt relief. She sighed. "Hey. I'm Ruby" she smiled, as she looked at Natsumi.

"Hey. I'm Natsumi. So, you're the new genin" she said kindly. "Oh, and the other girl, is Miu. She was just trying to scare you. She's actually really nice".

[Kaizor]

Hikari looked at Miu with an uncertain look. If she was nice, she certainly had a strange way of showing it. Hikari glanced back at Natsumi. "Oh...I see..."

Hikari suddenly began flashing back to old times she had with Jesse, the person she idolized in the world. The one person besides Natsumi she could look up to in confusion for answers, as he always seemed to have the right ones. He always seemed to know what to do, the great in ungreat moments. She put her hands over her chest while she was reminiscing.

She suddenly snapped out of her thoughts and said,"But...I thought the fight was over in Yukigakure? What more does he have to do?"

[Jackums]

Ruby stood by listening. She seemed okay with everything right now, and had no more questions. She picked Keiko up, and began patting him as he purred.

Natsumi began walking in as she answered Hikari. "The battle is over. But he has somewhere to be for now. He won't be more than a few days. You see, Jesse's a target of many criminals. He has to use this time to wisely." Natsumi said, happily. She didn't want Hikari to worry. She knew how much Hikari cared for Jesse. "Anyway. Now that we're here, we can begin your training. But, its getting a bit late, and you two look a bit worn out. You can shower, and look around if you want. Feel free to use the kitchen as much as you want. We can begin training tomorrow. We have training facilities on the lower level. I'll take you there in the morning" Natsumi said, smiling.

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded. Though she wasn't completely satisfied with the answer, it was good enough. She just hoped with all her heart Jesse would come home. She looked over at Ruby with friendly eyes.

"Alright, let's go shower, what do ya say?" she asked, smiling with joy.

OOC: AND NOW THE FUN BEGINS.

[Jackums]

Ruby smiled, and blushed. She nodded. Natsumi walked in first, Ruby followed behind her. After they were all inside, Natsumi turned and made a handsign. The waterfall reformed, and the large boulder closed the entrance. "Hikari, you know where the showers are, right?" Natsumi asked.

[Kaizor]

"Of course," Hikari answered, gesturing Ruby to follow her. She led Ruby toward the spring bath inside of the hideout. "Here we go. I feel like taking a hot shower..." she said, as the shower would definitely be very hot.

[Jackums]

Ruby walked in. There was a small hot spring bath, and four showers in the next room. The room with the hot springs was filled with steam. Ruby had picked up a small bag on the way. She was amazed that the hideout had its own hot spring. She put the bag down, and opened it. She pulled out bath cosmetic. Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, etc. She had all sorts of special treatments for her hair. "I'm getting in the spring. You going to have a shower?" Ruby asked as she took her towel off, sitting it down as she got in.

[Kaizor]

"Yeah I'm gonna head in the shower...enjoy the hot spring," Hikari waved at Ruby as she left to go into the showers. She shut the door, and soon enough water was running inside.

[Jackums]

Ruby nodded, and smiled. She splashed water over her body. She pulled out a tube of body wash, and squirted some into her hands, beginning to rub it on her arm.

Meanwhile, Natsumi was on the lower level, in an experimenting room. She was mixing ingredients, forming new substances. Miu was in the kitchen, eating a dessert.

[Kaizor]

A few minutes later, the door to the showers opened. Hikari stepped out, a blue towel wrapped around her body. Water was dripping off of her as she walked over to the steaming hot springs. "Hey Ruby, how's it going on your end?" she asked playfully.

[Jackums]

Ruby had just finished washing her hair. "Yea, its great" she said happily.

[Kaizor]

"Good," Hikari said with a smile. She was still drying herself off. "Although it kind of stung a little when I-" she paused herself. She was going to say when she bathed her burnt arm, but she didn't want to tower Ruby with more guilt. She then changed her mind. "Oh, nevermind," she said, sticking her tongue out playfully.

[Jackums]

Ruby laughed. Suddenly, Keiko came swimming up to the surface of the spring water. Ruby blushed. "C'mon Keiko. Its time to get out" she said, smiling, as she got out and wrapped a towel around herself. Keiko followed.

[Kaizor]

Hikari walked away and out of the room for a minute. I know she didn't mean to burn me...but that burn really hurt when I bathed...even though Natsumi healed it. I don't get it. When Natsumi heals something like this it's usually gone instantly. Why not now? she was lost in thought and leaning on the wall. She was staring at apparently nothing.

[Jackums]

Ruby sensed something was wrong. Oh no. Is she still hurt.. But, Natsumi.. she healed her.. she thought, making a worried face. She thought for a second, when a thought came to her, striking a feeling of shock. Maybe.. i've activated.. Shinku-Kouen! The crimson flame ability of my clan.. she stood, not moving. An awkward silence fell. She stood, water dripping off her body. She wasn't sure if she was right. Even still, the possibility shocked her.

[Kaizor]

Hikari continued standing there for a few more seconds. She finally absorbed in all of the pain and walked back out. She faked a smile. Whenever she was smiling for real or when she was faking one was easy to tell with her. "Hey uh, sorry about that."

[Jackums]

Ruby snapped out of her thoughts, when Hikari came in. She looked down for a second, then lifted her head. "Hikari.. Are you okay? Tell me please.." she asked, quietly.

[Kaizor]

Hikari remained quiet. She didn't want to tell Ruby, it'd make her feel guilty and hurt, and Hikari hated seeing people hurt. She turned away awkwardly. "Oh I'm fine, really," she said, faking her smile again.

[Jackums]

"Its okay Hikari. I don't mind if its me. I know you just don't want me to feel bad. You should tell Natsumi.." she said. She would feel guilty, even if Hikari didn't admit it. She couldn't help it. She just wanted Hikari to get better.

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded and took Ruby's advice. She was about to walk off when she thought of something. "Hey, where did Natsumi go anyway?"

[Jackums]

Ruby finished getting dressed, just as Hikari spoke. "I'm not sure.. She never said. Wanna go look?" Ruby asked politely, as she held Keiko in her arms.

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded in agreement. "Yeah...she must be around the place somewhere...where should we check?" she asked Ruby.

[Jackums]

Ruby thought for a second. "Maybe she's on the lower level.. The best thing we can do is split up and look. I'll go to the lower level. You look around up here" she said, with confidence, smiling.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

OOC: I'm making Ruby go to the lower level, 'cause i know what's down there. So, it'd just be better if my character looked, since i control her, :3

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded in agreement. "Alright, sounds good." she ran off and looked around the bathroom. She surveyed the area and nearby rooms for any sign of Natsumi. Nothing. She then decided to go into the kitchen...

[Jackums]

Ruby ran off, right after Hikari did. Keiko ran in front of her, trying to catch Natsumi's scent. Although, that'd be difficult, since Keiko has never smelt Natsumi, and had none of her belongings. They ran down the stairs, going to the lower level. They slowed down. Ruby opened a door. The room was filled with scrolls and parchments. It seemed empty though. She continued looking..

Meanwhile, Miu was about to leave the kitchen when Hikari came bumping into her. "Excuse me" she said, flicking her hair over her shoulders. "Are you looking for Natsumi? You won't find her. She's gone. She had to do something. She'll be back in a few hours" she explained, to Hikari.

The moonlight shone, on the waterfall outside, as the water below it glistened. The wind was calm, and all was silent. Jesse began rising, from the body of water at the base of the waterfall. He stood on the water's surface, he had about ten scrolls strapped to his legs. He didn't have these in the battle of Yukigakure. He must've got them on his "mission". His black hair, swayed in the cool breeze. He turned and made a handsign as the waterfall parted, and the boulder lifted. He walked in slowly, as it closed behind him. He began walking down the hall. The sound of his footsteps easily heard, due to the size, and emptiness of the place.

[Kaizor]

Hikari sighed as she listened to Miu. Part of her didn't want to believe her, but she knew she was telling the truth. Now she had to find Ruby...but then...

She heard footsteps through the hall. She had to go check out who it was. She ran toward the hallway, and was shocked at what she seen next...

"Jesse?! You're back already?!" she asked with extreme excitement, racing towards him. She hoped she wasn't just seeing things.

[Jackums]

Just as Hikari was nearing Jesse, Miu appeared in her path. She hugged Jesse, "You're back already. I didn't expect it to be hard for you anyway" she said, in a flirtacious tone.

Ruby continued to look. She heard noises echoing through the halls. Her and Keiko began running back to the upper level.

Jesse flicked his hair to the side. "I've got everything. You can train Hikari and Ruby tomorrow", Jesse said strongly. Miu nodded. She knew exactly what he was talking about. Jesse noticed Hikari standing behind Miu. He walked past Miu, and stood in front of Hikari. "Hey. Sorry i've been away", he said with his hands behind his head, as he smiled.

[Kaizor]

Hikari didn't care now, she was just glad he was back. She jumped on him and hugged him tightly. "It is you!" she yelled in a caring tone. "I missed you...it doesn't matter now, I'm just glad you're back..." she didn't want to let go of Jesse, she wished time would stop.

[Jackums]

Jesse hugged Hikari tightly. He smiled, as he knew Hikari was happy he was back. Miu seemed jealous. She flicked her hair over her shoulder, and walked off, down the hall. Ruby arrived, to find Hikari hugging Jesse, and Miu walking down the hall. "Hey" she said, blushing as she held Keiko.

Jesse let go of Hikari, and turned to see Ruby. He smiled, "Hey. Wow, you've grown up Ruby. You were only a baby last time i saw you" he said, laughing slightly. He turned back, and noticed the burn on Hikari's arm. "What happened to your arm?" He kneeled down, and placed his hands gently on her arm. His medical jutsu took a white blue colour. His was slightly, more effective than Natsumi's. She'd mastered medical jutsu, but Jesse used his Safaia-Joukei to enhance the effects.

[Kaizor]

Hikari's smile lightened up the room, or so it seemed. She let go of Jesse though she didn't really want to. She said sweetly, "Where were you Jesse? And howcome you didn't tell me you'd be away...?" she asked, as if slightly offended, but she couldn't stay mad at Jesse, never.

[Jackums]

Jesse finished healing Hikari's arm. He stood up, and stretched. "Sorry. After the battle at Yukigakure, I had to leave immediately. I had.. things to do" he paused, "You'll understand soon" he smiled. Ruby stood by, holding Keiko in her arms. She had no questions or anything to say. She just listened.

As Jesse was talking, a sound echoed quietly. The entrance was opening. Natsumi walked in, as the entrance closed behind her. She made her way to Jesse, and held her hand out. She was holding a medium sized scroll - "I got it", she said, obediently. Jesse nodded, and took it out of Natsumi's hand. He also had ten new scrolls strapped to his legs, which he recieved on his recent mission.

[Kaizor]

Hikari rubbed her arm as Natsumi entered the hideout. She was happy to see her too. "Awesome! Both of you are back!" she said excitedly. "Oh and Jesse...it doesn't matter much now, as long as you're here to stay now, I'm fine with it," she said still holding her arm. Wow...just what is with Ruby's jutsu anyway.

[Jackums]

Jesse put the scroll on one of the straps on his leg. "I think we've got everything", he said to Natsumi. "i'll get started" he said, as he turned around. He smiled at Hikari and Ruby. "So, are you two ready to be trained?" he asked, stretching his arm.

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded, saying yes. "Yeah, I believe so," Hikari turned to Ruby. "How about you? Are you ready?"

[Jackums]

Ruby nodded, and showed determination in her eyes. She'd been waiting to learn some new techniques - "Okay. Good. Well, Natsumi is going to be training you both today. I will train you, but not until you progress. The techniques i'll be teaching you are a lot more advanced than what you'll be learning from Natsumi".

"Okay. We'll start now. Follow me", she said as she began walking towards the entrance. "For now, we'll train outside. After you progress, we'll start using the training facilities in here". The boulder moved, and the waterfall parted. Ruby followed.

[Kaizor]

"Yay!" Hikari exclaimed, walking outside following Natsumi and Ruby. "What will the first lesson be?!"

[Jackums]

They arrived out in the clearing. Ruby and Hikari standing in front of Natsumi. "I'm guessing you've already learnt the basics? Chakra control, walking up trees, etc. Today, i'm going to teach you about summoning", she said, as she pulled out two large scrolls.

OOC: Okkies. well, what animal would you like to summon? I'll pretend Natsumi already had the scroll for the summoning you choose, :3

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded. "Of course we know that stuff...now let's learn some of the good stuff," Hikari said, glancing at the scrolls in Natsumi's arms. She became excited but held it inside. "Do we get to keep the scrolls?" she asked in an almost teasing tone.

OOC: A panther will work.

[Jackums]

Natsumi held the scrolls out. "You each get one. They're contracts.. Summoning contracts. You'll need them to summon your animals, until you master the jutsu. Ruby, your animal is a cat. Hikari, your's is a panther. Summoning jutsu prove very useful, in and out of battle. The more you advance in summoning techniques, the higher level creatures you can summon. Anyway, let's begin. You'll both have to sign your contract, with your blood" Natsumi said, unrolling both scrolls onto the ground. One for Ruby, and one for Hikari.

[Kaizor]

Hikari looked down at the unrolled scroll in uncertainty. She hated seeing herself and others bleed...but it was for the training. She bit her thumb and pressed down on the open summoning scroll, hoping for the best.

[Jackums]

Ruby followed, and did the same. Both pressed their fingers down on their scrolls at the same time. A puff of smoke appeared. Ruby coughed, and stepped back. The smoke slowly cleared, revealing a pure white cat, and a pitch black panther cub. Natsumi nodded. Both disappeared.

"You've both signed your contracts, and summoned the first level. The stronger you get, the higher level summons you'll achieve" she said, rolling both scrolls up, and handing Ruby and Hikari one each.

"You'll need to use the scrolls to summon your animals, until you master the jutsu. Then, you can summon them free hand. Now that we've succesfully completed the first level, we'll move on. Before we get any further, I'd like to see what you're both capable of. Feel free to use your summons in this battle" she said, smiling.

Ruby nodded. She strapped the scroll to her lower back, and flipped back. She was uneasy, and afraid she'd hurt Hikari again. As long as i don't use 'that' she thought to herself. She took a stance, and held out a kunai near her chest.

[Kaizor]

Hikari turned toward Ruby, slight fear in her eyes from her last battle with her. She drew a kunai and held it up. "Alright....let's do it then. This could be a great time to get used to my panther." she said with a positive smile.

[Jackums]

Ruby blushed, and giggled. Natsumi nodded, implying they could begin. Ruby's face became slightly more serious. Although, she hesitated a little. She'd never used her clan's kekkei genkai before. She had no idea how to control it. Maybe i should've told Natsumi.. wait no.. i can do this she thought, as her expression showed a glimmer of strength. She began running towards Hikari, throwing the kunai. She pulled out 6 shuriken in between her fingers, as she threw them. She ran around Hikari in a clockwise dirctions, throwing more shuriken, each time she reached 90 degrees of the radius. The shuriken all had wire attached to them. She'd ran around the full radiu. Wire was attached to every second shuriken. Ruby calculated it, so it would be harder to detect the wire.

[Kaizor]

Hikari quickly drew her shuriken and deflected the shuriken thrown at her away, completely unaware of the wire attached to them. She didn't notice those, so she took out three small bombs and attached one to three kunai. She threw one at Ruby, landing right in front of her feet missing her only by a few cm. The smoke quickly rised, surrounding Ruby fast. Hikari ran inside of the smoke and threw another at Ruby, aiming for her left shoulder. It also had a smoke bomb attached to it so once it connected to something it'd also go off.

[Jackums]

Ruby wasn't sure where Hikari was coming from. But she knew she was also not vissible to Hikari. Although, she assumed Hikari had already thrown kunai at her. She quickly jumped to the side, sliding along the dirt. She saw the kunai fly straight past her shoulder. Luckily, she reacted fast enough, to avoid the kunai. She had to get rid of the smoke. She was sure Hikari had some sort of plan. She was smart. Instead of trying to counter Hikari's attack, she decided to remove her cover. She made a few hand signs. Ruby had elemental affinities for fire and wind. Although, she hadn't mastered her wind jutsu. She jumped back, and pulled out a kunai, as a strong gust of wind cleared the smoke. The instant she saw Hikari, she pulled at the air. It was the wire attached to the shuriken. They flew at her from all angles.

[Kaizor]

Hikari saw the incoming shuriken coming from all angles. Ruby saw through her plan. Hikari performed a hand seal, rainbow colored butterfly-like wings appearing from her back. The wings flapped, sending the shuriken repelling away. Hikari performed a new hand sign, as her body began glowing green and yellow. Something was going on..she wasn't using normal elemental jutsu, she was using her own element, flora, which feeds on sunlight to use efficiently.

OOC: Sorry for my inactivity. I've been recovering from a surgery.

[Jackums]

Ruby wan't sure what was going on. She'd never seen or heard about anything like this. She made handsigns quickly. She had to stop this ~ "Katon: Phoenix Flower"
She jumped into the air, and inhaled. As she exhaled, she shot multiple large fireballs at Hikari.

OOC: S'all good. Wait, what? Surgery, D:
lol.

[Kaizor]

Hikari knew from her last encounter with Ruby that wind would not work against fire. She jumped in the air to avoid the fireballs. She landed a few meters away from Ruby. As she was in the air, she threw another smoke bomb at Ruby. Behind that smoke bomb was three shuriken. They didn't aim for vital points on Ruby as Hikari didn't want to harm her. She continued charging sunlight through her body as she did all of this.

OOC: Yeah. I had oral surgery on my teeth...nothing too serious but a long and painful story. I couldn't get on at all yesterday because I was doped up on pain medicine lol

[Jackums]

Ruby had a mind blank. She froze up. She folded her two arms in front of her, as the three shuriken hit her. One in her arm, one cut her shoulder, and one cut her cheek. She fell back to the ground. She made a slight moan [lol], as she pulled the shuriken out of her arm. Blood ran down her body. It wasn't too serious. She stood up, and made handsigns ~ "Katon: Breath of the Phoenix"
As she spoke, a huge force of heat formed around her. She clapped her hands, making a handsign, as a large heatwave shot in all direction. In the midst of all this, it seemed Natsumi had disappeared.

[Kaizor]

Hikari jumped back trying to avoid the heatwave, but it was all in vain. Fire was the element she was weak against so she had a hard time escaping it. She screamed as she made a loud thud against the ground where she landed. She slowly stood up, the flora energy gathered around her body like an aura. The wings enveloped around Hikari, and then suddenly opened back up in a sudden burst of energy. Green and yellow energy erupted out of the wings in a huge beam of sunlight and gathered from plant life. The beam of flora flew straight for Ruby at a fast speed. If she took the beam head on, she would be seriously injured as Hikari didn't really know what she was doing. This was the second time she had ever used the jutsu.

[Jackums]

Ruby attempted to evade the attack. But she was too fatigued from using her heatwave jutsu. She was hit by the beam. She screamed as she went crashing through the forest behind her. Smoke rose from the destruction. She layed on the ground, unconcoius, with some serious injuries, covered in blood.

[Kaizor]

Hikari had her eyes closed through the whole attack. She didn't know what she was doing or what was going on. She was barely aware of her surroundings. She opened her eyes, and saw the smoke, and a bloody Ruby on the ground. From her fear of blood and seeing others close to her hurt, she began to panic. "RUBY!"

Hikari ran toward Ruby and when she reached her she kneeled down to her, checking to see if she was still alive and alright. "Oh my god I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to!" she started to cry...

[Jackums]

Ruby layed unconcoius. Her heart beating faintly. Keiko ran over, and started rubbing abainst her. His eyes showing deep sadness. Natsumi was no-where to be seen. It seems it was up to Hikari.

[Kaizor]

Hikari panicked even more. She wasn't very skilled in medical jutsu yet, but she would do her best. She held both of her hands over Ruby's chest, a green chakra aura appearing over her hands. She was attempting medical jutsu, at the very least wanting to stop the bleeding. She couldn't heal Ruby completely, but she could hopefully bring her back to concious and stop the bleeding.

[Jackums]

At first, it seemed hopeless. Nothing happened for a short period of time. When it seemed Ruby was lost, a red glow came from under her clothes. It was her ruby necklace. It was amplifying the effects of the healing jutsu. It chanelled Hikari's chakra, bringing Ruby back to conciousness. She coughed, spitting up blood. Her eyes slowly opened, as she tried to make words ~ "H.. Hikari..?"

[Kaizor]

Hikari had about given up, she was crying when she heard Ruby's voice. She smiled, a broad smile. "Ruby! Oh god I'm so sorry! But I'm so glad you're okay!" Hikari hugged Ruby, but let go after a few seconds. She offered to help Ruby stand up. "I'll carry you to your bed if you like...I'm sorry again for what I did...I didn't know what I was doing. I still need to better control my flora jutsu."

[Jackums]

Ruby struggled to stand. She had only one eye opened. She was still badly injured, but the bleeding had stopped. She forced a smile on, to try remove some guilt from Hikari ~ "Its okay. I'm.. f-fine", she said, coughing.

[Kaizor]

Hikari looked at Ruby with relief. She was glad she was okay. "Are you sure? You're coughing up blood.." Hikari said in a worried tone. She was already starting to pick Ruby up. Although she was trying to heal the guilt from Hikari, she still felt it strongly.

[Jackums]

Ruby nodded, and forced another smile ~ "I'll.. be fine. I just n-need some rest.."
They began walking towards the entrance to the hide-out.

[Kaizor]

Hikari walked inside Ruby's room and put her in bed. She tucked her in and made sure she was comfortable. "Rest here for a while. I'll go see about finding herbs," Hikari said. She walked out of Ruby's room.

OOC: I just took my pain pill so I'm going to sleep. Might be back on later tonight.

[Jackums]

Ruby smiled and nodded. Keiko jumped onto the bed, and curled up next to Ruby. She stroked him for a few seconds, before drifting off to sleep.

OOC: Okkies. Have a good sleep.

[Kaizor]

Hikari walked outside of the entrance and began picking at herbs. She was very well knowledge in plants so she knew what she was doing. She picked out a few herbs in the stash and walked inside of the hide-out with them in her hands. She walked inside Ruby's room, and stood outside of her doorway with the herbs. I guess this is a similar guilt Ruby felt when she accidentally harmed me... she thought bitterly to herself.

[Jackums]

Ruby layed, still asleep. She was a little restless because of the pain. Keiko woke when Hikari walked to the door. He jumped off the bed, and ran to the door. He began scratching on it.

[Kaizor]

Hikari heard a scratching noise and looked down, noticing Keiko. She smiled slightly and opened the door. She walked in Ruby's room and put the medicinal herbs on her bed. "Hopefully these will help..."

[Jackums]

When Hikari opened the door, keiko jumped back. He ran in the room, running around like crazy. He was very playful. He wanted Hikari to chase him. Ruby layed, still asleep. She tossed every now and again, but she was still asleep.

[Jackums]

Ruby woke an hour later, to the sound of the entrance opening. She felt a bit better, but she still had some fractured bones, cuts and bruises. She noticed a herb mixture smeared on her cuts. Hikari must've done it. She smiled a little. She got out of bed. As she stood, she made a quiet groan. She was still in pain. She was greatful to Hikari though. She'd bandaged her up as well. She limped across to the room, and reached for the door.

Meanwhile, Natsumi and Miu had returned. The sound of their footsteps echoed through the halls. Natsumi walked along, tying her hair up. Miu wiped dirt off her shoulder ~ "Ugh! Those INS members are disgusting. They really need to watch who they mess with", she said, pulling a leaf out of her hair.

[Kaizor]

Hikari was sitting outside of the hideout. She turned around when she noticed Natsumi and Miu arrive. A smile grew wide on her face. She ran inside quickly and caught up with them. "Natsumi! You're back!" she exclaimed excitedly, but noticed Jesse still wasn't there. Her face turned to more worry...but she tried to hold it in.

[Jackums]

Natsumi turned, as Miu continued walking. She looked at Hikari with a relieving smile ~ "Yeah. Things have been bad out there. You're lucky you're here, where you're safe. Sorry if we seem to be out a lot. There's just a lot going on", she said, as she paused shortly. I think they should know.. she thought to herself ~ "I'll explain everything tonight", she'd decided Ruby and Hikari should know of the current events that have been happening. They weren't quite strong enough to get involved.. yet.

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded with a huge smile. She was just happy to see Natsumi...but she really wanted to see Jesse too. "Alright...when I was in Konoha earlier...I heard rumors of a 5th Great Shinobi War...is this true...?" Hikari asked shyly. She hated bloodshed and violence, she thought it was pointless and there were other ways to solve disputes.

[Jackums]

Natsumi's face became a little serious ~ "Yeah. There's a lot to it, Hikari. I'll tell you and Ruby tonight", she paused for a second, "Speaking of Ruby, where is she?", she asked curiously.

[Kaizor]

Hikari's face turned from happiness to shock and worry. She put her hands behind her back and looked down, ashamed of herself for what had happened earlier. "She's in her room...she had an accident," Hikari said, not giving the details of what really happened just yet.

[Jackums]

Natsumi's face became curious. She knew there was more to it than Hikari was telling ~
"Accident? What kind of accident?"

[Kaizor]

Hikari sighed. She couldn't keep it in much longer anyway. It'd be wise to just go ahead and be out with it. "Me and Hikari were sparring while you were gone. I sort of...uh...hurt her..." Hikari said as if the words pained her.

[Jackums]

Natsumi's face became a little worried and confused ~ "Is she okay..? You seem to be quite upset, which implies it's more serious than you're letting on"
She wasn't getting angry with Hikari, she was just worried. She promised Jesse she would take care of them both, while he was gone. And Natsumi was no stranger to sparring "accidents". She remembered a time she broke three of Jesse's bones, when he said he had a thing for Miu.

[Kaizor]

Hikari sensed Natsumi wasn't getting angry, so she calmed down a little. She presented herself well now but was still upset about what she did. "She's fine...I've stopped the bleeding and placed a herb mixture on her wounds. I used that ability again..." Hikari said, referring to her solar powers. She thought Natsumi would get the hint, since she knew of Hikari's hidden powers she hadn't fully unlocked yet.

[Jackums]

Natsumi smiled, at the irony of the situation. Both Ruby and Hikari had unlocked powers, and neither of them knew of each others. If mastered, they would both be extremely elite and talented shinobi.
As they were talking, Ruby came limping around the corner, making a soft groan, caused by the pain of her fractures. She grabbed her chest and stopped, as her eyes closed. She didn't know Hikari and Natsumi were nearby, as she was looking down, and trying to keep her balance.

[Kaizor]

Hikari heard something around the corner. She grabbed Natsumi by the arm and led her to Ruby, where she heard someone. She was right. She gasped. "Ruby?! What are you doing up?? I told you to stay put in bed," Hikari sounded worried and angry at the same time, but mostly worried. She couldn't stay mad at anyone.

[Jackums]

Ruby coughed, and opened one eye. She forced a smile, to try show she was okay. Although, it was obvious to anyone that she wasn't ~ "I'm.. f-fine..", she said as before her body weakened, and she began falling to the ground.

Natsumi could tell Ruby's injuries were bad, just by looking at her. She flickered beside Ruby, and grabbed her before she could hit the ground. Ruby was completely unconcious. Natsumi held her in her arms. So this is the power of Seisaten.. she thought to herself ~
"Ruby's life could be in danger. I'm going to need to use an A-Rank healing jutsu. I'll need to take her to the lower level. I might be a few hours..", she said in a serious-like voice.

[Kaizor]

Hikari's eyes widened as Natsumi mentioned how serious she was injured. She was mad and sad at herself for what she did. She nodded slowly, holding back tears the best she could. "Okay...please do what you need to do."

[Jackums]

Natsumi nodded, and walked off, down the hall. She was heading for the lower level. The jutsu she was going to carry out was difficult, even for someone of her level. There is a chance it wouldn't work, and Ruby would be at risk of death. It would take an hour or two.

Outside, it had began to rain. It was heavy rain too. Miu stood in the hide-out entrance, looking out. She loved watching the rain. She used to do it as a kid, when she was seperated from Natsumi and Jesse.

[Kaizor]

Hikari watched Natsumi leave, and shed a tear or two. She began wandering down the hallway, until she came across the hide-out entrance. She saw Miu standing there. She wiped her eyes and looked at Miu. She was actually a bit afraid of her, because of how she acted around her and Ruby. She was debating in her head whether she should talk to her or just walk away.

[Jackums]

Miu was in thought at the moment. The rain always reminded her of her childhood. She knew Hikari was nearby ~ "It's okay Hikari, I won't scare you", she said, in a mellow voice as she watched the rain.

Meanwhile, Natsumi arrived in one of the rooms on the lower level. There was a large seal on the ground, in the center of the room. She gently layed Ruby down, and walked over to one of the shelves. She picked up a large scroll, and walked over towards Ruby.

[Kaizor]

Hikari slowly approached Miu. She seemed unusually friendly today. She walked closer to Miu until she was by her side. She looked up at her. "Um..if you don't mind me asking, do you like listening to the rain by any chance? Or do you enjoy watching it?" she asked, a bit of an edge to her voice.

[Jackums]

Miu turned to Hikari ~ "The sound, of it is soothing. But, it looks so beautiful too", she replied, and paused for a second.. "Me, Jesse, and Natsumi used to watch the rain as kids. Before we were seperated.. Things back then were so peaceful.. and easy..", she said. She was obviously in deep thought.

Natsumi grabbed two more scrolls, and knelt down just beside the outter ring of the seal. She rolled out the first scroll, and layed it at the first point of the seal. She bit her thumb, and wiped blood along the scroll. She then placed both palms onto the scroll, as a bright green light shone ~ "Point of Trigram, One!"

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded in understandment. "It is. The rain's sound always used to...sing a melody to me when I was out in the world alone. Every night I'd hear the rain thud against the shelter." she turned to Miu again. "I bet being kids back when you were a kid was easier than times when I'm a kid. So much hate has been going on in the world lately, with Tasogare, Akatsuki, and stuff. It's sickening." Hikari said in a disgusted tone. She hated fighting with all her heart.

[Jackums]

Miu wasn't sure if Hikari knew the Sannin had joined Akatsuki ~ "Yeah.. I'm going to put a stop to it", she said in a quiet yet determined tone.
"There's something you need to know.. Hikari..", Miu was about to tell her about Akatsuki, when a voice came from behind them.
"Miu", it was Jesse. He stood behind them, smiling, and making a cool pose.

[Kaizor]

Hikari's face, that was wet with tears, instantly seemed to vanish as she saw Jesse. She grew a huge smile and ran over to him, hugging him. "Jesse! You're back!" she exclaimed happily. It was the same thing every time Jesse returned from a trip.

[Jackums]

Jesse smiled, and laughed. He felt good, that he made Hikari so happy by just being around. He hugged her tightly, then let go slowly, as he stood up straight again. Miu smiled, and walked over.
"So, how have things been without me?", he said, as he held his hands behind his head.

Natsumi walked over to the second point of the seal. She did the same, unrolling the scroll, and wiping her blood along it, as she said ~ "Point of Trigram, Two!"

[Kaizor]

Hikari backed away from Jesse. "Okay....kind of," she said, thinking of Ruby. Though Jesse's appearance made Hikari forget about what she did to Ruby for a second, now it was all back in her head. She turned away. "Well...Ruby had an accident, caused by me..."

[Jackums]

Jesse smiled, and brought his hands down ~ "It's okay Hikari. Natsumi told me, when i first arrived", he said, in an assuring tone. He didn't want Hikari to feel guilty, or worry. She couldn't control her kekkei genkai yet. It was the same in Ruby's case.
"After Ruby has recovered, i have to tell you both something. Also, Natsumi said you've both been progressing in your training. Soon, I'll be training you both", he said, smiling then flicking his hair.

Meanwhile, Natsumi walked to the final point of the seal. She did the same, as the other two ~ "Point of Trigram, Three!"

[Kaizor]

Hikari smiled. Jesse could always cheer her up no matter what it was. "Alright," she happily said. "I just hope Ruby will be okay..."

[Jackums]

Jesse nodded, and smiled ~ "What say we go get something to eat?", he asked. He hadn't got to spend much time with Hikari lately.

Natsumi had finished all three of the Trigram points. Each point of the seal, had one scroll layed out. They were all glowing a bright green. She walked over to a shelf, and grabbed a medium scroll. She then stood in front of the seal, as she rolled the scroll out at her feet. She began making a long string of handsigns. She then clapped both hands together ~ "Ultimate Healing Technique: Trigram Restoration!"
The writing around the seal became green, and also started glowing. A sort of thin green mist was emitted from each of the scrolls, as it began circling Ruby.

[Kaizor]

Hikari smiled. Her smile was weaker than normal...but it would heal soon. If the word came out that Ruby was okay it'd instantly go away. "Sounds great!" she exclaimed with excitement.

[Jackums]

Jesse smiled, and rubbed his head ~ "Do you wanna go out to eat, or eat here?", he asked, with a cool voice.

The thin mist began entering Ruby's body, through her mouth. A strong wind blew through the room, as scroll began flying around. Natsumi merely stood, holding her hands together with a single handsign. Determination to save Ruby in her eyes. Her hairband came out, and her long emerald hair began flying wildly. She kept her stance.

[Kaizor]

"How about we go out? We haven't done that in a while," Hikari said. She liked getting away from everything by eating out. Fancy or not she enjoyed it. "We haven't done that since we moved in this hideout."

[Jackums]

Jesse, nodded in agreement ~ "How about we make a trip to Yukigakure. It's Spring Season there, so there's no snow. The whole island is blooming this time of year", he said, happily. He actually couldn't go anywhere else since he joined Akatsuki. He wouldn't put Hikari in that kind of danger anyway.

Natsumi had been holding the handsign for almost 30 minutes. She released the handsign, as the wind stopped, and everything fell silent. This was a very exhausting A-Rank jutsu. She only have two other healing jutsu, of that level in her arsenal. One of which was S-Ranked. She took a deep breath, and walked over to Ruby. She wouldn't be waking up for a few hours. Natsumi picked her up, and made her way to Ruby's bedroom.

[Kaizor]

"Oh! That sounds wonderful! I love that time of year in Yukigakure. Let's go," Hikari said excitedly, tugging on Jesse playfully.

[Jackums]

Jesse laughed ~ "Okay. I'll have to carry you", he said, with a cool-like voice, as he knelt down.

Meanwhile, Natsumi was walking up the stairs, as she arrived on the upper-level. She had Ruby in her arms. All her cuts had healed. She looked all better, she just needed some rest.

[Kaizor]

Hikari jumped on Jesse's back and gripped tightly. She couldn't help herself but laugh. "This never gets old. For once, you're the one on the bottom!" Hikari remarked with a joke.

[Jackums]

Jesse laughed, and made a smile as he grabbed Hikari's legs, "Hold on", he said, with a confident tone. He ran out the entrance, and jumped up into the trees, leaping from branch to branch. He wasn't going at his fastest yet.

[Kaizor]

Hikari screamed in excitement. She always enjoyed when Jesse gave her one of his rides. She held on tight and rode on Jesse.

[Jackums]

Jesse turned his head slightly, "You ready to go faster?", he said, excitedly.

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded. "Yeah! Let's go!" she replied returning the excitement back to Jesse.

[Jackums]

Jesse turned back, getting ready to speed up ~ "Here we go!", he said. He suddenly began moving extremely fast. He had a new-found speed. It was incredible. From someone's view watching, it would look like a blur.

[Kaizor]

Hikari was both surprised and excited. She screamed even more in excitement. "Wow! Is it just me or have you gotten faster??"

[Jackums]

Jesse was moving so fast, he made a slicing sound as he moved. He laughed as Hikari spoke ~ "We should be at the shore in ten minutes"

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded. She didn't mind how long it took she enjoyed the ride either way. She continued to hold onto Jesse as they both moved through with a blur.

[Jackums]

*10 minutes later*

Jesse came leaping out of the trees, landing on the sand by the docks. There was a large boat waiting. He knelt down, so Hikari could get off his back ~ "Here we are. It should be about 30 minutes on the boat, before we arrive", Jesse said, smiling.

[Kaizor]

Hikari jumped off of Jesse's back and nodded. Spending all of the extra time with Jesse was all she wanted so she didn't mind the wait. "It's nice being able to spend time with you. Lately everything has been so complicated in the world..." she said in a shameful tone.

[Jackums]

She put his hands behind his head, and blushed slightly. He made a short laugh ~
"Yeah. Things have been getting pretty bad. But it'll all be good. No need to worry, Hikari. Everything will be fine", he said in an assuring tone.

[Kaizor]

"I hope you're right. I really do," Hikari said with a long sigh. She leaned on Jesse as the boat began its journey to their destination, Yukigakure.

Inside of Jesse's head, Kaiden could talk telepathically to him through the Madoigan's ability, no matter the distance in the world. His voice could be heard in Jesse's head.
~ Jesse, you're needed at Kanaki. The plans against INS are beginning soon, and you must be present to discuss the plans.

[Jackums]

Jesse was about to speak to Hikari, when he heard Kaiden. He had to go somewhere alone, so he could project his mind to Kanaki. He smiled at Hikari ~ "I need to be alone for a while. I have something to do. I'll be back in a while", he said, as he opened the door walking into the cabins below the boat. He went into one of the rooms, and locked the door behind him. He sat on the bed, and began his meditation.

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded at Jesse, though she was sad he was leaving yet again. "Alright..." she said, looking at the water surrounding the boat on their journey.

[Jackums]

Miu sat atop the cliff, where the waterfall began. She watched the sky, and sun in all it's beauty. Natsumi was down in the lower level of the hide-out, "training". She'd been preparing some of her new jutsu. Jesse and Miu weren't the only ones with new techniques. Meanwhile, Jesse was out in a river shirtless, with the water just above his waste. He performed handsigns, as water rose into the air, forming two large spheres. He moved his hands, controlling the water's flow. It was intense training. Ruby just woke up, in her room. Natsumi's healing technique had worked. She felt completely rejuvinated. She put her clothes on, and tied her hair up with a red ribbon. She picked Keiko up, and ran out of the room, to go look for Hikari.

[Kaizor]

Hikari was walking diligently down the hallway leading to her room. She had just had her fun day with Miu, and it actually was pretty fun. Although Miu had to leave right away, like Jesse did. She wondered what was going on. The three of them, Jesse, Natsumi, and Miu weren't in the hideout a lot these days. Having little to no contact with the outside world, all of this was a mystery to her.

Just what could those guys be up to...and has that 'ninja war' started yet?

[Anthony Sky]

In the forest near Etânaru Sunô-Hebi Douketsu hide Tojo walk scrambled through the forest blood dripping from all over his body his silver hair stain red his vision blurry he fell to the ground barely breathing as he said to him self 'Damn were the hell is Miu I sense her chakra to this vary point but then is vanishes' Tojo stumbled to his feet as he yelled at the top of his lungs 'MIU' Tojo continued to stumble through forest leave a trail of blood he would not make it much longer

ooc Jack this is Tojos last act so you don't have to worry about any one but him knowing of the hide out

[Jackums]

Miu sensed someone enter the detection barrier that had recently been set up. Miu noticed the chakra. It was Tojo. She made a sigh, and flickered out. She arrived by Tojo's side, seeing the blood dripping from his body ~ "What happened?!", she asked with a concerned tone.

Ruby ran happily through the hall, as her footsteps echoed quietly. She had Keiko in her arms. She spotted Hikari walking along ~ "Hikari!", she screamed, as she ran towards her, "Natsumi and Jesse want to talk to us. Natsumi said to wait outside", she said excitedly. She'd overheard Miu and Natsumi talking last night, and had an idea of what was going to happen.

[Anthony Sky]

Tojo fall to the ground as his eyes were barely open as he spoke weakly 'Keisu Myakkan is alive' Tojo turned to the side and coughed up blood he turned back to Miu held her cheek lightly as he said ' Stop holding your self back from the one you Love..promise me you will let you walls down around your heart and take the risk for the one you love..promise' Tojo was talking about Jesse for he had watch Miu long enough to see just how much she felt for Jesse

[Jackums]

Miu's eyes showed shock. At both the fact that Keisu was alive, and that Tojo knew of her feelings for Jesse. She snapped out of it, and knelt down, holding Tojo ~ "What happened?! Where's Keisu?", she was in a state of panic. She never got like this. She looked around quickly ~ "Don't move! I'll get Natsumi to heal you", she said, knowing Tojo would probably reject her offer.

[Anthony Sky]

Tojo grabbed her hand as he smiled and said ' Keisu is with in the Rain...you still did not promise me' Tojo's grip of Mius hand lighted but not by choice his strength was fading quickly his silver hair now cover in blood and his Anbu uniform full of slash

[Jackums]

Miu turned back to Tojo, as she looked down ~ "I promise. Thankyou, Tojo", she said, knowing it would soon be his end. She knelt down, as the wind blew gently. She knew times were changing. How could Keisu possibly be alive..

[Anthony Sky]

Tojo silver hair covered his eyes he smiled as he made a hand sign and his body turned to mist but a small white dove flew out of the mist and head to the Konoha probably to inform the Hokage

[Jackums]

Miu sat on the grass, as Tojo's body disappeared. The gentle wind rolling against her soft face, as her long amethyst hair danced in sync with the breeze. Minutes later Natsumi appeared beside Miu ~ "What happened Miu? What's going on? I've been looking for you", she asked, curious to what Miu was doing so far from the hide-out.

Miu forced herself up, and she stood up ~ "Tojo.. the one assigned to follow me, came here looking for me.. He told me.. Keisu Myakkan is alive"

Natsumi's face became shocked, and confused ~ "How?! Jesse killed him. Did he say how?", she asked, in a rushed tone.

Miu turned and looked at Natsumi ~ "No. He died before he got a chance to tell me.. Although, he told me Keisu was in Amegakure.. he must've travelled all this way.."

Natsumi got her focus back, and grabbed Miu's arm ~ "Let's go. We have to inform Jesse", she said, as they both disappeared.

[Kaizor]

Ruby ran happily through the hall, as her footsteps echoed quietly. She had Keiko in her arms. She spotted Hikari walking along ~ "Hikari!", she screamed, as she ran towards her, "Natsumi and Jesse want to talk to us. Natsumi said to wait outside", she said excitedly. She'd overheard Miu and Natsumi talking last night, and had an idea of what was going to happen.

Hikari was lost in her train of thought when she heard Ruby's voice. She was relieved, as she hadn't seen Ruby since 'that' attack. "Ruby!" Hikari exclaimed as she approached. She mentioned that Natsumi and Jesse wanted to talk. "Oh really? I wonder what it's about...I don't think we've gotten in any trouble lately. Ah well, shall we wait outside then?"

[Jackums]

Ruby smiled, with a face like '^____^' ~ "Okay. Let's go!", she said, as she ran down the hall towards the entrance, with Keiko in her arms. She was strangely hyper today.

[Kaizor]

Hikari laughed slightly and followed Ruby outside. As they went outside, the sunshine, well, shined on her gracefully with its magnificent light. Hikari smiled as the sunlight hit her. "Beautiful day...and you seem hyper today. What's up with you? Not that it's a problem," Hikari asked with a chuckle.

[Jackums]

Ruby laughed, as she hopped across the stones ~ "I dunno. Guess I'm excited to hear what they say", she said, still holding Keiko as she walked out beside the small lake at the base of the waterfall. She had overheard Miu and Natsumi mention the Chunin exams in Kumogakure. But she wanted Hikari to be surprised, so she didn't say anything ~ "I guess we wait here", she said excitedly.

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded and stood there, waiting for the arrival of the Snow Sannin. "So...feeling any better?" Hikari asked referring to the 'accident' earlier.

[Jackums]

Ruby smiled ~ "Yeah, I'm fine. It's no big deal. Natsumi is a powerful healer", she said, in an assuring tone.

As they both talked, a voice came from atop the cliff, where the waterfall started ~ "Up here", Natsumi was standing on top, her long emerald hair out, being pushed gently in the wind.

[Kaizor]

Hikari looked up at the start of the waterfall, its water flowing...and falling..like a waterfall. Hikari smiled. "Natsumi!" Hikari jumped up toward Natsumi and landed beside her. "What is it you want to tell us?" Hikari asked hoping it was good news. She needed to hear some decent news.

[Jackums]

Ruby put Keiko on her back, and pulled out two kunai. She ran at the cliffside, and began stabbing the kunai in, as she made her way up to the top. She swiflty jumped up, landing beside Natsumi and Hikari, waiting to hear the news. Natsumi closed her eyes. She slowly opened them as she spoke ~
"There's both good and bad news. Some will be a bit of a shock too", she said in a somewhat serious tone. But only slightly serious. Ruby's energy fell a little. She hadn't heard Natsumi and Miu say anything bad. All she heard was them talking about the Kumogakure Chunin exams. She nodded, with a confused look.

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded slowly, her face twisting slightly in concern. "Alright. So what is it...?" she asked, her patience being tested but she was holding it back.

[Jackums]

Natsumi looked at them both, with a serious expression ~ "As you know, there was a recent war, between INS, Akatsuki and Tasogare" she closed her eyes, and paused. She opened her eyes as she began talking ~ "Myself, Jesse and Miu.. were members of Akatsuki", she said, not knowing how Ruby and Hikari would react.

Ruby's eyes widened, with shock ~ "But.. why..", she was too confused for words right now.

[Kaizor]

Hikari's eyes widened as well. She had no idea how to react. She just stood there for a few moments recollecting herself. Suddenly it all began to make sense...them suddenly leaving all those times....Hikari closed her eyes for a second and wiped away an invisible tear.

"Why did you do it...?"

[Jackums]

Natsumi smiled, to try lighten them up ~ "It's okay. We've left Akatsuki. Actually, from what we know, Akatsuki is no more. Nor is Tasogare. There could still be few members left, but nothing big enough to start another war. We joined, so we could be in the center of everything. We needed to be sure what was going on, and had to put ourselves in such a position. But we've abondoned Akatsuki. The shinobi world is currently in a time of peace", she said, with a smile. She didn't mention Keisu. She knew the girls were worried enough. Ruby seemed to understand. She made a sigh of relief, and smiled slightly. Natsumi nodded ~ "Now. For the good news. The Chunin exams are beginning in a few days, in Iwagakure. I know you've both been waiting to test your skills. And now you can put all that training to use. You'll be leaving very soon. You'll be on a team.. but since you'll need three members, we've arranged for you third member"

[Anthony Sky]

ooc I thought you should know the Chuunin exams are in the Iwagakure while the grand exam is in the Kumogakure

[Jackums]

ooc: Yeeep. Just noticed. Thanks.

[Kaizor]

Hikari sighed with relief when Natsumi explained. Her expression turned into slight shock when she heard new partner. "A new partner?" Hikari looked at Ruby then back to Natsumi. "Who might it be?"

[Jackums]

Ruby got her energy back, after hearing the news ~ "His name is Nikomo Taiyon. He's from Yukigakure. His abilities compliment you two. That's why you'll make a good team in the exams. I met him back in one of the old Ninja wars, when I was a member of ANBU. He was very young back then. But I promised I'd come back for him. Jesse left to get him, last night. He should be back soon. Since we're seen as enemies to most villages now, Jesse will accompany you, as your sensei. But he'll be using a very high level cloaking technique, so he won't be noticed. You'll be leaving after Nikomo arrives", she said, smiling.

[Kaizor]

Hikari smiled and nodded with excitement. She jumped up. "I can't wait! We're finally going to compete in the exams!! When is he coming??" she asked with an impatient edge to her tone.

[Jackums]

Ruby was about to speak, when she sensed a large chakra. She looked to her left as a watery vortex rose from the ground. It lowered, revealing Jesse, with his arms folded. Next to him was a goofy looking guy, with an orange outfit, and bright blue eyes. Ruby jumped with excitement. After the recent events, this seemed to make up for it all. Jesse made a half smile, as he walked towards them ~
"Hey girls. This is Niko. You're new teammate", he said, in a cool tone. Keiko was on the ground running around in circles, with excitement. Even he knew what was going on.

[Kaizor]

Hikari smiled enthusiastically and jumped. A surge of excitement raced through her body.

Niko stood there, beside Jesse, trying to look cool with his arms folded, but he wasn't doing a very good job. He looked at the girls with an 'ooo-la-la' expression, one eyebrow raised. He slowly approached both girls and bowed. "My name is Nikomo Taiyon...but please...call me Niko. What an honor it is to be in your pres-" as Niko was standing up while talking, he tripped on seemingly nothing and fell flat on his face. He couldn't have looked stupidier. What a first impression. Hikari laughed out loud.

"Oh boy, I like this guy already," Hikari said in between laughs.

[Jackums]

Ruby laughed uncontrallably. This guy really is goofy. But there's something about him. I can't wait to see him fight. I bet there's a very cool and mature guy under all that, she thought to herself, with a happy feeling.

Jesse walked over ~ "So, Niko has all his gear. You two have 25 miutes to get ready, and we'll be leaving for Iwagakure. The exams start tomorrow. I'm guessing Natsumi has explained our situation", he said with a smile.

Natsumi smiled too, and nodded. She walked over to Ruby and Hikari ~ "Good luck girls. Have fun. I'm sure all three of you will pass", she said, with an assuring tone. She believed in all three of them. These three might one day become the new Sannin.

[Kaizor]

Niko sat up rubbing his head. He groaned. "Oh man...that totally didn't make me look cool! And in front of girls too..." he shook his head ashamed as he stood up. Hikari finally finished laughing, and then proceeded to walk over to Niko.

"Alright, we'll be ready. In those 25 minutes, I'd like to see what your powers are...I mean, if that's okay with you Niko," Hikari said with a playful wink. Niko took it as flirting and took a proud stance.

"Oh...you'll see EVERYTHING I can do!" Niko reassured the girls. "I mean...I'd rather have all the girls' approval first. What are your thoughts, Ruby?"

[Jackums]

Ruby blushed, but tried to hide it ~ "Oh, s-sure", she said happily. She picked Keiko up, and waited.

Jesse smiled, remembering back to when he was in Niko's position with Miu and Natsumi. Except he was less goofy, and ended up getting most of his bones broken by Natsumi. He flicked his hair, and disappeared. Natsumi looked at them both ~ "Okay you three. Meet me at the entrance when you're ready. I've got to go perform the cloaking jutsu for Jesse, so I might be about 5 minutes extra. Remeber to pack your bags and all the supplies you need for the Chunin exams. It's most likely you'll be put through some sort of survival test", she said with a smile. Ruby nodded, and turned back to Hikari and Niko. She couldn't wait to see his abilities. Natsumi nodded, and leaves rose around her as she flickered out.

[Kaizor]

Niko noticed Ruby's blush. Hide it all she liked, he could see it. He smiled slightly as he nodded at Natsumi, Hikari did the same. Niko turned back to the girls on his new squad.

"Hm...okay. I'll start with this..." Niko held out both of his open palms, side by side. As he did this, energy from the light of the sun began collecting in Niko's hand, shaped like a very miniature model of the sun. It was compressed light, and it required no hand signs to make it. Hikari watched with astonishment.

"Oh my god...is that solar energy?!" she asked with amazement. Now I see why he was picked for our squad....

[Jackums]

Ruby's eyes widened in amazment ~ "Wow. It's so beautiful!", she said excitedly, waiting to see more of his abilities.

[Kaizor]

The solar energy ball in Niko's hand faded away. He took out a scroll that was strapped vertically down his back. He rolled open the scroll and summoned the contents in it. Suddenly, the scroll began firing kunai in the air, and then after that, Niko tapped his hand on what seemed to be the air, but it was actually invisible wires that were attached to the fired kunai. The wires set ablaze aiming up at the kunai at intense speed. Fireworks began forming in the air, and it looked awesome.

"I'm also a master of weaponry...well not master, but getting there," Niko chuckled proudly, as he pointed at more scrolls strapped to his back. "I have many more behind here...but I can't dish them all out..."

Hikari watched the fireworks in astonishment. They looked so pretty to her. This guy already looks amazing.

[Jackums]

Ruby's face couldn't widen any further. She was completely amazed at this ~ "Wow..", she was almost speechless.

[Kaizor]

Niko put his open scroll away before rolling it back up first. He looked at Hikari's and Ruby's faces. He could tell they were impressed, and that made him feel cool. "Well, I'm not very skilled in my light and solar jutsu, but I'm working on it," Niko sighed. He was ashamed to admit it, but it was true. He immediately lightened back up again though. "We still have about 20 minutes before we leave." Niko said as if suggesting something.

[Jackums]

Ruby was at first confused, then realised what Niko meant. She slapped him over the head ~
"Don't get any ideas!", she said before turning around and Walking off the cliff. It was a high drop to the bottom, but her animal reflexes and enhancments allowed her to keep her legs strong. Like they say 'Cats always land of their feet'. She landed firmly and gracefully onto the clearing below, before turning and jumping across the stones. She was on her way to pack her things ~ "Coming Hikari?", she yelled as she walked into the entrance.

[Kaizor]

"Ouch..." Niko rubbed his head. He was used to being slapped by girls, but not the cheeks on his face! (loljk)

Hikari giggled at Niko and Ruby and called back, "Yeah! I'm coming!" Hikari turned to Niko. "You wait here...and don't do anything stupid," she said with a slight chuckle following Ruby back inside.

[Jackums]

Ruby ran excitedly through the hide-out halls. Each footstep echoing quietly. She arrived at her bedroom, running in. She opened her draws throwing all her needed supplies onto the bed - Shuriken, Kunai, Paperbombs, Smoke bombs, Wire, Scrolls, a water bottle, etc. She opened the sliding cupboard door, and pulled out her backpack. It was only a small backpack. But was enough for her belongings. She carefully placed her belonging in seperate sections of the bag. She put shuriken in her pouch strapped to her waist, and Kunai in a small pouch strapped to her lower thigh. She then tied a large scroll to her mid back. It was in a diagonal position. She then strapped her Konoha headband around her other thigh. She thought she was ready, and had everything packed. Keiko jumped into her backpack on the bed, excitedly. She was about to grab her bag when she noticed her nails. They weren't painted. She couldn't go out without them done. She opened her top draw, and searched through the piles of make-up. Clinging sounds, as they hit against each other. She found it, a bright ruby-red nail polish. she took it out, and began painting her nails.

[Kaizor]

Hikari walked inside of her bedroom excitedly. She grabbed a small backpack and packed a few vital things in there she needed to have. She packed a few canned food and water bottles, not to mention her ninja supplies of course, but she put that on the pouch located on her waist. When she was finished packing, she walked out of her bedroom, waiting for Ruby. She wanted to talk to Ruby privately about something before they got to Niko.

[Jackums]

Ruby's room was just across from Hikari's. She finished painting her nails, and picked up a photo from her bedside table. It was a picture of her family. She smiled, and put it in her backpack before putting it on. keiko was in her backpack, with his head poking out. She walked out of the bedroom, closing the door behind her. She blew her nails gently trying to make the polish dry faster, as she walked down the hall. She noticed Hikari standing near her bedroom ~ "Hey Hikari. You ready?", she asked, with a smile.

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded. "You know I am." Hikari began walking with Ruby back outside to set forth on their pwnsome journey. As they were walking, Hikari asked, "What do you think of Niko?" she wanted to hear Ruby's response before she answered herself.

[Jackums]

Ruby turned to Hikari, as they walked slowly through the hall ~ "He's okay, I guess. He's kind of a goof. But I think he's mature and strong under all of that. But yeah, he's funny", she said, smiling, "Why? What do you think of him?", she asked, curious to see Hikari's response.

[Kaizor]

"I kinda wonder. He has the power and all...but I just wonder what he'll be like during the exams..." Hikari said in deep thought. "If he fails us, we all fail I believe.."

[Jackums]

Ruby thought about it for a second, but wanted to keep positive. She turned to Hikari, and made a grin ~
"It'll be okay. Promise", she said assuringly, as they neared the entrance.

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded, and walked with Ruby out of the entrance.

Niko was standing outside leaning on the entrance door, beside it anyway. He was awaiting the arrival of the girls.

[Jackums]

Ruby walked out with a determination in her eyes. The sun shone on her face, as her long, crimson hair swayed with elegance ~ "Ready!", she said, with a fierce look.

Jesse was standing beside Niko. He nodded ~ "Let's go then. It'll be a short trip to Iwagakure, so be ready. If we keep up our pace, we'll be there by the tomorrow morning", he said as he walked across the clearing, towards the forest. Ruby ran behind him, ready for the exams.

[Kaizor]

"SWEET! LET'S GO!" Hikari and Niko followed them towards the forest. It was time to go. Niko was enthusiastic as always and Hikari seemed a little nervous.

[Jackums]

-And So They Left For Iwagakure, And For Anything That Awaited Them In The Chunin Exams!!-

[Jackums]

Water shot from the ground outside of the entrance to the hide-out. Keisuke, Miu and Keisuke walked forward. Jesse made a handsign, as the waterfall parted, revealing the huge boulder blocking the entrance. He performed another handsign. The boulder slowly lifted. Jesse made his way inside, with his new apprentice by his side - Keisuke Uchiha. Jesse expected Faren to soon follow.

[schrodinger]

Faren followed lazily, tapping his blade on the rock and entering.......he seemed to be waiting for something........he was interested to find out what jesse wanted with him......

[Jackums]

Miu walked in. She turned back to Keisuke ~ "Come with me. I'll show you around", she said. Keisuke nodded, and followed behind her.

Jesse stopped, and turned back to Faren ~ "This is Hakumei's main base. It's a hidden location", he said as he walked over to a cupboard. He pulled something out and handed it to Faren ~ "Put this on", he said. It was a purple rope belt. Exactly that which used to be worn by Orochimaru - The Legendary Sannin.
~ "Oh. And if you attempt to tell anyone the location of this place, your memory of it will be wiped"

[schrodinger]

"Why the hell would i tell anyone ice boy?" Faren asked loudly......then he took the belt thing......looked at it and looked incredulous..... "I really have to wear this?" he asked sceptically.......

[Jackums]

~ "Heh". Jesse gestured. He nodded, "Yep. Put it on.. We're going to Konoha", he said making a smile. What did he have planned?

[schrodinger]

Faren growled slightly, but tied the belt around his middle, using the loops to hold his sword......... "Well good......its about time i ransaced the damn leaf village....." he said happily......

[Jackums]

Jesse smirked ~ "But.. I have one thing to do before I leave.. You can head to Konoha. I'll be there soon", he said as he walked off down the hall, heading to the lower levels.

[Jackums]

Jesse walked out of a room in the lower levels. The sound of the closing door, and Jesse's footsteps broke the silence. He casually walked through the halls. Natsumi came out of a room about ten doors up from where Jesse was. He walked up the stairs, heading back to the upper levels ~ "It's done. When Keisuke wakes, escort him to his desired location. I'm going to get the genin", he said to Natsumi. She nodded, and walked off in the other direction. What was going on? What had Jesse 'done'? This would all be revealed in the future.

-- 2 hours later --

The door slowly opened, as Keisuke walked out. His eyes shining blood red, brighter than usual. He seemed different. Something had changed about him. He smiled, as he looked at his hands. He laughed under his breathe, and began walking down the hall. He made his way to the upper level, and out of the entrance. Natsumi was standing out the front of the hideout. Keisuke looked at her. She nodded. It seemed she knew what was going on. A plan maybe? This must've been what Jesse told her about earlier. Natsumi and Keisuke both flickered out. Their destination.. Konoha!

[Kaizor]

Hikari slowly woke up from her sleep. She yawned lightly as she sat up. As she sat up though, she noticed Niko was sitting on the edge of her bed, staring at her with a goofy look. "Hi!" Niko said with a loud tone. Hikari's face fueled with anger.

Suddenly, the door to Hikari's room flung open, and Niko flew out of the room, punched right in the jaw...

"...OUCH!"

[Jackums]

Ruby woke to the huge crashing sound. It was barely 6am. What was going on? She rubbed her eyes as she stepped out of her bed, onto the cold stone floor. Keiko was asleep on the end of her bed. She walked across her room and opened her door. She leaned out and glanced up the hallway in both directions. About 4 rooms down, she saw Hikari's door swing open as Niko came crashing out onto the ground. What are they doing..? She thought, although she wasn't very annoyed that she was woken.

Outside of the hideout, Natsumi and Keisuke were arriving. The sun was only just coming up. The sky was a pale pink shade. They gently hovered down from the sky on Karasu's back. Keisuke jumped off, into the clearing just outside the entrance to the hideout. Natsumi also jumped off. After landing, she made a handsign, returning her Karasu puppet into it's scroll. She placed the scroll back in the strap around her right thigh. She walked over the the waterfall, as she held a handsign. The waterfall parted down the middle, and the blouder concealed behind it opened. Keisuke walked in first, followed by Natsumi.

Ruby heard the rumbling of the boulder as the entrance opened. She looked up the hall in the opposite direction to Hikari and Niko. She saw the light gleaming through the dim, candlelit halls. She rubbed her eyes again, and walked down the hall to see who it was. She saw Natsumi.. but there was someone with her. At first she thought it was Jesse. But then she realised they had crimson eyes. She was a little intimidated at first ~ "Hey Natsumi!", she said happily with a smile.

Natsumi smiled and looked at Ruby ~ "Hey Ruby. Why're you up so early?", she asked with a kind tone. She walked slowly along as she tied up her hair. Keisuke proceeded to walk straight past, and down the hall. Most likely going to find Jesse. He was further along when he ran into Niko and Hikari. He made a quick glance at both, then walked past, disappearing into the darkness.

~ "Oh.. Niko and Hikari woke me up.. So, where were you?", she asked curiously.

~ "I was at Konoha..", she said before pausing. She'd completely forgotten what had happened, for the slightest second. Konoha was destroyed, along with Ruby's house. How could she tell Ruby? She knew Ruby would be greatly saddened and shocked. She hoped Ruby wouldn't ask, but she knew it was unlikely.

~ "And..? How is it there?", she asked with a big grin, hoping for good news.

The moment Ruby spoke those words, Natsumi was at a loss of words. She didn't know how to explain it. So in her shock and anxiety, she did the worst possible thing ~ "Konoha is destroyed". She couldn't believe what she said. She was completely blank minded at this point..

Ruby's grin vanished in an instant. She completely froze. All of a sudden, tears began streaming down her face. She coped her hands over her face, as she began crying loudly. She dropped to the ground in grief. What.. how.. why.. is this a nightmare.. I can't believe it.. Her sobs echoed through the empty halls. Niko and Hikari would definately hear it.

[Kaizor]

Niko and Hikari looked up at Keisuke as he walked by. Hikari was a little intimidated by his eyes, but Niko remained strong. As Keisuke walked past, they heard sobs echoing throughout the hideout. Niko and Hikari immediately knew it was Ruby. Both of them ran through the hallways, and appeared by Ruby's side.

"Ruby...what's wrong?" Hikari asked, putting a arm around her trying to cheer her up.

Niko looked up at Natsumi. Somehow, when he saw Natsumi, he instantly knew what it was. Niko looked down in disbelief. "I'm sorry Ruby..."

[Jackums]

Ruby continued crying, ignoring her friends. Although not intentionally. She was too devastated to talk right now. She sat on the cold stone floor, with her face hidden in her hands as tears streamed down her face. Natsumi looked up at Niko and Hikari ~ "It's best if you just leave her for now.. I'll take care of it", she said softly.

Natsumi knelt down and gently lifted Ruby. She needed space right now. Alone time is all that could help. Once she'd got past this stage of shock and anxiety, she might possibly feel like talking.
________________________________

ooc: HAPPY 5000th POST, =D.

[Kaizor]

Niko and Hikari nodded. They didn't want to leave Ruby, but there really wasn't anything else they could do. They walked down the hallway together slowly.

"I can't believe Konoha is destroyed....that's just...impossible!" Hikari exclaimed to Niko as they walked. It made no sense to them.

"I know. Konoha was such a strong nation. To be beaten by...I bet I know who did it..." Niko's eyes gleamed with anger. Hikari was dumstruck however.

"Who was it!?..."

[Jackums]

-- 2 hours later --

Ruby walked out of the medical room with bandages around her knees from where she fell onto the ground. She walked along the cold stone with bare feet. She was on her way to Hikari's room when she had a change of mind. She walked in the opposite direction..

She arrived at the entrance of the hide-out. The boulder was already moved. She looked out at the roaring waterfall. She made a quick glance down the hall which led to Hikari's room, then she walked outside. It was around midnight, and the sky was clear and starlit. There was a cool breeze rustling through the trees.

She needed time alone.. to think things out. As she walked out, she heard a voice from atop the waterfall ~ "Hey kid.. what're you doing out so late?". The voice was deep, yet soothing to Ruby. She turned and looked on top of the entrance. Keisuke was sitting on the edge in a relaxed position. Ruby saw him before.. but she didn't know who he was. She was a little bit intimidated.

She stuttered, as she didn't know what to say. But she regained her focus ~ "I'm.. um.. I need time to think..", she said with a pause as she clenched her hands to her chest. A tear came from her eye. It sparkled in the moon's light. Keisuke made a slight sigh.

~ "Come here", he said with a nonchalant tone as he looked down into Ruby's eyes. She felt strange. Like he understood her pain. She nodded, and jumped up along the ledges until she got to thhe top of the waterfall, which was pretty high. She stood a few metres from Keisuke.

~ "Well sit down", he said with a relaxed tone still. Ruby wasn't sure how to react, so she walked beside Keisuke, and sat down, hanging her legs off the edge. She still felt a little intimidated, so she didn't make any eye contact.

Keisuke looked at Ruby ~ "It'll be okay". Some how, he knew what was wrong with Ruby. Was it his Sharingan.. or had he been through something like this before. Ruby looked at Keisuke. After he said that, she didn't feel intimidated anymore.

She knew.. he understood her. He understood her pain.. "Thanks", she said with a kind and meaningful voice, as she looked back at him. The moon shone bright, lifting Ruby's spirits all the more.

[Kaizor]

- 2 weeks later -

Hikari was sitting on the top of the edge of the entrance. She seemed to be deep in thought. She gazed off toward the horizon. It was always beautiful in the hideout, but sometimes she just wanted to venture out. She hadn't had the chance to do that lately due to everything going on in the world lately. Keisu, Kimen, and Makago and all. Hikari sighed as she rested her chin on her right hand. I feel so...useless...

"Boo!" a familiar annoying voice bursted out behind Hikari. Hikari jumped back as Niko was behind her. She nearly screamed, afterwards panting and clutching her chest.

"Niko...don't do that!" Hikari yelled in irritation. She wasn't in the mood for any of his games today. Normally she could take them, but not today. It wasn't the right day. Niko sensed something was wrong, and sat down beside Hikari.

"Did I strike a nerve? Tell me which one it was...I don't want to strike that one again," Niko said, sounding sarcastic but he wasn't trying to be. Hikari took it as sarcasm and folded her arms looking away.

"I feel like...we should do something to help." Hikari admitted. She didn't like feeling left out of everything.

"What? Are you insane? People like Keisu and Kimen are out there, what can we do?" Niko said, more of a rhetorical question however. But really, what could a couple of Genin do against top of the world S-class criminals? Highly unlikely they could do anything.

"I don't know..but there has to be something. I don't like sitting around waiting for something to happen. I want to make something happen...like that speech you always give me and Ruby. But where is that speech now? This isn't the Niko I know.." Hikari said, frustrated at Niko's response. She thought he'd be the type to agree with her instead of complaining. This wasn't like Niko at all.

"I know that, but we have to know our place as well. Getting involved in that kind of struggle is suicide! Hikari, we're young, we have lots to live for. When the future comes, we can be the ones giving our lives for the sake of our village on the battlefield. But right now...it's not time." Niko said, meaning every word of it. He may be the type to take action but he knew the place and time. Hikari sighed.

"Yeah....I give you're right..."

[Jackums]

Jesse arrived back from Yukigakure, along with Miu. They'd been gone for a while now, and the sun was just coming up. It was around 5:30am. Jesse walked alongside Miu, stopping in front of the roaring waterfall. He performed a hand seal as the waterfall parted and the boulder lifted.

They both made their way inside silently. Miu walked by Jesse until she arrived at her room. She walked in, and Jesse continued down the hall until he reached a bathroom. He walked in, locked the door behind him, and began taking his clothes off. When he was fully stripped, he turned the shower on. The water was hot, and the room was already filled with steam. He stood in the shower, with his head under the hot running water and his arms against the wall.

Meanwhile, Natsumi was about 15 minutes from the hideout. She was swiftly jumping across the tree branches. Her long hair bouncing each time she jumped. She enjoyed the crisp, morning air. The sky was painted a dull orange, as the sun gave it a waterpaint look. She slowed down her pace. She had no urgent need to get back to the hideout anyway. She actually thought she'd be a day longer. But the battle in Kumogakure ended faster than she thought..

[Kaizor]

A white eagle soared toward Natsumi. It had been tracking her by scent, and been following her for the last kilometer of distance. It landed on Natsumi's shoulder as she began to slow down...holding a scroll. Inside of the scroll was a written letter to her. It read:

Natsumi,

I know we just had a recent encounter in Kumogakure, however, during the time we've been apart, a lot has happened to me. I will explain more, if you come to meet me in one hour at Kirigakure. I apologize for it being on such short notice, but I'm afraid it is quite urgent that you show up. This will also benefit you in your organization, Hakumei. Again, I will explain more thoroughly if you come to meet me in Kirigakure.

If you show up, I'll give you a piece of candy, any kind you like, you name it.

Your best friend, Ryukazi

P.S. When you come to Kirigakure, be on guard, because there was currently an attack here. As long as you're with me at the gates, you won't have any trouble getting access inside.

P.S.S. That other girl you hang out with, the pink haired girl. She's quite attractive.

[Jackums]

Natsumi came to a halt. She stood on a high branch, and took the scroll from the eagle. She opened it, and read it's contents. She finished reading it, and place it in her pocket. She looked towards the direction of the hideout. I guess I have time to spare. She thought to herself. She smirked, and turned to the other direction. She swiftly jumped across branches, on her way to the Village hidden in the Mist...

[Jackums]

-- The Next Day --

Jesse arrived back at the hideout. He walked in through the entrance. It was already open. Natsumi must've arrived not too long ago. Jesse walked down the empty hall. He took a deep breathe as he tilted his head back and looked at the patterns on the roof as he walked. The silence was broken as Ruby walked out of her bedroom ~ "Jesse!", she said as she hugged him tightly. "You've been gone so long.. Me, Hikari and Niko have been sitting around for days..", she looked down at the ground as she spoke. She didn't want to feel needy or ungrateful.

Jesse made a smile. He understood why she was saying this ~ "It's okay. I'd like to spend time with you all, but Yukigakure is under attack", Jesse didn't bother hiding it. The reason the three were so excluded was because they couldn't possibly help when faced with the enemies the Sannin face every day. Jesse knew the least he could do was treat them like equals.

Ruby became slightly shocked. Although, after hearing about the destruction of the Leaf, nothing would surpise her ~ "Why.. why is all this happening.. Jesse..?", she lowered her head once again as a tear ran down her cheek. Ruby disliked pointless fighting. All of the recent events had gotten to her alot more than usual.

Jesse looked down at Ruby. He lifted his hand and wiped the tear from her cheek. He grabbed her gently and lifted her head so that she was looking in his eyes. His face showed a smile ~ "Don't worry Ruby. I'm going to stop the destruction and chaos.. I promise", his words filled with meaning. His smile soothed Ruby's pained heart. It lightened her spirits hearing those words. She believed Jesse. She knew out of everyone she knew, she could count on him to keep that promise. Until the day she could help achieve that goal.

In those few seconds, Ruby realised something.. She needed to become stronger. She needed to be as strong as Natsumi, Miu and Jesse. So she could finally do something.. Make a change. She wanted this. Determination, realisation and passion boiled in Ruby as she wrapped her arms around Jesse. His words made Ruby come to the realisation that she needed to become stronger. This.. was her goal and dream ~ "Thankyou.."

[Kaizor]

Hikari and Niko were both sitting in the bedroom when they heard Ruby and Jesse. Curious and excited, they fled out of the bedroom, stopping halfway down the hall seeing none other than Jesse and Ruby. Niko smiled goofily. "How touching!"

Hikari nodded, as she slowly approached Jesse. Her steps were small. "Jesse...you're back!" she exclaimed, normally she would hug him too, but he seemed busy with Ruby. Niko seemed to have a lot on his mind, as his normally goofy smile turned into a serious stare.

"Jesse...I don't want to say this, especially right after you return, but...we need to become stronger..." Niko said, skipping straight to the point. He was serious too. He saw no one in the world as strong as Jesse, Hikari felt the same way. He was their knight in shining armor, shining through the clouds surrounding their hearts...

[Jackums]

After Ruby let go of Jesse, he stretched, then looked at the newcomers ~ "I know. I haven't been training you like I should be.. most of your training was with Natsumi or Miu", he paused and made a half smile. The smile made Ruby feel anxious. Like what they were about to do was going to be hard. "I'm going to test all of you. My training is going to be alot harder than Natsumi's. You three up for it?".

Ruby was getting excited. She'd set her goal and nothing would stop her. She clenched her fists ~ "Yes. I'm ready!", she announced to Jesse.

~ "Okay. All three of you meet me outside in 15 minutes", he turned and began walking down the hall with a slow pace.

Ruby immediately went to her room. She ran in, leaving the door opened behind her. She opened her draw and pulled out her necklace. She grabbed her pouch holding her weapons, and strapped it to her waist. She grabbed a large scroll which she strapped to her waist also. It was similar to the ones the Sannin wore. Except slightly smaller.

[Kaizor]

Niko and Hikari suddenly got excited, filled with joy and adreline. Both headed off to their rooms. Niko picked up three scrolls he always carried around, and Hikari just got her ninja pouch and other accessories. Both walked out of their rooms and headed down the hallway. Even though Jesse said 15 minutes, they were ready now.

[Jackums]

-- 10 Minutes Later --

Ruby arrived in the clearing outside of the hideout. She noticed Niko and Hikari were already there. They must've left early. She walked up beside the two. Jesse was standing a few meters in front of the three rookies. The wind blew a cloud of dust across the flat clearing. Ruby knew this session would be difficult. But she had to be ready for anything. Jesse made a smirk ~ "Okay. This is your first time training with me. It will be alot harder than your previous training.. so be ready"..

He looked across at the three. He didn't have to ask. He knew they were prepared. He bit his thumb, drawing blood as he wiped it along his arm and placed his palm onto the ground, "Kuchiyose: Great White Serpent". A cloud of smoke enveloped Jesse and the area around him. A hissing sound was heard as the wind blew the smoke away. Revealing a massive white serpent. Jesse was standing on top of it's head. It opened it's mouth and made a hissing roar. The force of it created winds on it's own. "Let the training begin". Jesse disappeared, re-appearing in a large tree on the edge of the clearing. Ruby was breathless. The site of the serpent made her legs shake. But she promised herself she would become strong. And she was determined. She grabbed a kunai and took her battle stance. Let the fight begin..

[Kaizor]

Niko and Hikari both looked up at the white serpent. Leave it to Jesse to summon a giant serpent of that caliber. Niko nearly wet himself as he backed up in fear. Hikari was being more tough than he was, as she stood strong the best she could and took out a kunai. Niko glanced at both of the girls on his squad in a cowardly way.

"You think that little weapon is going to scratch that thing?!" Niko pointed up at the serpent to emphasis his point. He looked rather pathetic. Hikari wanted to slap him, but she had other things on her mind, like the serpent.

"Niko, get a hold of yourself...you were the one pushing us to start our training..." Hikari said in a matter-of-fact tone. She took her battle stance and readied herself for the epic battle to come. Niko took in a large amount of air and sighed deeply. He reached for one of the scrolls strapped to his back, a total of three. He held it over his head, trying not to shake in fear.

"Alright big boy...LET'S GO!!"

[Jackums]

Ruby felt insignificant compared to this great serpent. At first anyway. She soon realised that this was just one of the obstacles she had to overcome in order to be strong. She would be facing more things like this when she was ready to face the world. She had to be strong. She closed her eyes for a second, in a meditating way. They remained closed as she reached around to her back, grabbing the large scroll and pulling it around. She opened her eyes with a fierce determination as she unrolled the scroll dramatically. The cloud of smoke soon dissipated. Ruby was standing in a battle stance, holding two scythe-like weapons connected by chain (click (http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u6/crocsrock/NINJA.jpg)).

Jesse sat on a large tree branch nearby. He layed back and yawned as he watched his students. He himself hadn't yet seen what they were capable of. The sun was shining through the trees and leaves above him. Hmm.. They're going to need to work together.. I don't think Niko's realised yet.. he thought to himself as he observed what was happening. Even being far away didn't matter, Jesse could see everything with his Safaia-Joukei.

[Kaizor]

Niko summoned the contents from inside of the scroll, as a cloud of smoke formed, out of it firing about 100 kunai and shuriken mixed together, heading straight at bullet-like speed toward the white serpent. Niko was yelling like a maniac as the weapons flew toward the serpent. Truth was, Niko was actually a weapon master, which he hid in those scrolls he carries, but never really used them until now. Hikari wanted to stop him, but for some reason she couldn't. She already knew what the result would be though, Niko however seemed not to understand.

[Jackums]

The weapons, as fast as they were, merely reflected off the serpent's skin. It was known by alot of people that Jesse's serpent summonings had a diamond layer coating their already tough skin. And now that Niko had attacked, the battle would begin. The serpent hissed viciously as it swung it's tail, with great speed and velocity, down at Niko.

Ruby knew Niko's opening attack was foolish. They had to work together to take this beast down. Although he could likely escape, Ruby was worried about Niko. She swung her scythes by the chains connected to them. She threw it as it wrapped around the end of the serpents tail. She attempted to use her strength to stop it's tail from coming down on Niko.

Obviously, Ruby didn't have anywhere near enough strength to stop this serpent's tail. But she succeeded in getting it's attention off Niko. It was now focused on her. Ruby's chained scythes were unbreakable, both the chains and the scythes on the end. This was a disadvantage at this point, as the chains were wrapped around the serpent's tail. It thrusted it's tail with great strength, sending Ruby flying across the clearing as she slammed into a tree.

Luckily, she had great endurance. She pulled herself to her feet. She grasped the chains and ran back to the battle.

[Kaizor]

Niko screamed like a little girl as he ran away from the serpent, only to see Ruby had redirected the serpent's trail, it went for her instead. His eyes widened, but at least Ruby had great endurance.

"Okay girls...got any ideas...?"

About time he understands teamwork. Hikari thought, looking up at the giant serpent. It certainly looked intimidating. She almost wanted to run away, but she had to be strong. She actually didn't know what to do, for once...

[Jackums]

The serpent didn't give them any time to talk. Nor would an enemy in the real world. It swung it's tail down at Hikari. The force would be great. Most likely create a crator too. Meanwhile, Ruby flipped backwards and began performing unique handsigns.

[Kaizor]

Hikari leaped to her left, just barely avoiding the tail. The crater was huge, and so was the impact. It was so huge Hikari could feel it. It made her feel weary.

Niko performed the shadow clone jutsu, creating in a cloud of smoke four extras of himself, pefect replicas. Who knows what he planned to do now. Three of them began charging the Taiyodama, Niko's signature move. He glanced over at Hikari and Ruby once, as he leaped back, avoiding the serpent's destructive path.

[Jackums]

Ruby saw that Niko was preparing for an attack. So she needed to keep the serpent's attention on herself. She finished her handsigns, and clapped her hands together. She inhaled, and opened her mouth as a massive torrent of flames shot towards the serpent, engulfing the air itself. It was like Ruby's 'unlocked' kekkei-genkai was now merging with her normal katon attacks. She never used more chakra for the attack, or tried to make it more powerful. Yet the flames were alot hotter than usual. If her kekkei-genkai were to fully merge with her chakra, all of her Katon attacks would be intensely hot.

But of course, the serpent didn't care too much about this little chunin's flame. It was an A-Ranked summon, used in S-class level battles. But if Team Yuki could take it down, it would just prove their strength and capabilities. The flames hit the serpent, and soon diminished into nothing. The body of the serpent was covered in diamond. Ruby would need a drastically intense flame to even burn it.. It gave it's attention to Ruby as it began swinging it's tail in a downwards direction. This is where Ruby's agility would be tested.

[Kaizor]

Hikari performed a quick set of hand signs, as fast as she could at that moment, as her rainbow wings appeared on her back, flapping gracefully in the wind, swirls of rainbow chakra appeared to travel through the air. This meant Hikari was getting serious now, and had unlocked her Kekkei Genkai. Hikari's Kekkei Genkai was a bit like Ruby's, in the sense she could combine her flora and fauna energy with her normal attacks, boosting their attacking power. When finished with her seals, Hikari raised her hand to her mouth.

"Katon: Phoenix Flame Rings!" Hikari declared. She blasted a small ring of fire out of her mouth, and then two more. The fire rings expanded, and they also took on a yellow-orangish color. This was the combination of her Kekkei Genkai with her normal attacks. She aimed it at the serpent, but she didn't think it would do anything, this was just a distraction anyway, as she prepared more hand signs.

Meanwhile Niko was still charging his attacks. The Taiyodama ball was swirling madly in the air, the air inteisifying and heating up a great deal as a result. This attack was going to be devastating, but if it would effect the serpent or not, only time would tell.

[Jackums]

Ruby flipped swiflty, performing acrobatic moves as she evaded the serpent's attacks. Her speed wasn't anything Hikari and Niko hadn't seen. Although, even with such agility, she was barely avoiding each swing of the serpent's tail. No less could be expected. It was Jesse's signature summon.

Ruby kicked off the ground, as she rose high into the air flying backwards. She performed some unique hand seals. Her crimson hair rustled around viciously in the strong gusts which were slowly becoming stronger. She stared down at the serpent.

She looked over at Niko, noticing he was charging up an attack. Hikari seemed to be helping distract the serpent. So Ruby would help out too. She finished her hand seals and held the final one. She kept it as she landed. She then made a diamond shape with her two thumbs and index fingers. She raised her hands so that the serpent was positioned in the middle from her view.

Jesse glanced over as he ate an apple from the tree. They're working together without even talking.. Heh. He thought to himself, impressed by how they were doing.

[Kaizor]

Hikari finished her set of hand signs, but did nothing yet. She dashed closer to Ruby, seeing she had something planned. As she got about 20m within her range, she released her jutsu, using an affinity you don't see very often, combining her fire and earth elements, creating a lava affinity.

"Lava Flow!" A river of what appeared to be mud appeared flowing horizontally in front of Ruby and Hikari, but it was red. It was a river of lava, the only lava affinity jutsu Hikari knew, but quite effective. She used it to hopefully buy more time for her teammates, since it seemed Niko had somehting big planned in the end.

[Jackums]

The lava didn't hurt the serpent at this point. It would take something near the heat of Amaterasu to burn through it's diamond layer. But it was quite a good distraction. The serpent seemed irritated by this attack. It turned it's attention to Ruby and Hikari.

It hissed. It actually sounded more like a roar. So far it has been shown to have great defenses, superb strength, good speed and the intimidation to go with it. It didn't end there. It opened it's mouth as a compressed torrent of water shot out. The power of this attack alone could pierce solid stone.

Ruby wasn't sure if Hikari had a defense against this. But she didn't want to take the chance. She jumped to Hikari's side, and held a handseal. A ruby wall rose from the ground. It's density as hard as diamond. A chunin with such a strong jutsu? It actually wasn't too great for Ruby. She had this great power. But it consumed massive chakra.

The ruby wall held it's own against the water stream. Ruby held her arms over Hikari, like she was shielding her ~ "I won't be able to keep up these Ruby Style techniques for long. I'm already at half chakra. I'm going to need you to distract it for a second. Ready?", Ruby asked, in a somewhat commanding yet sincere voice.

[Kaizor]

Hikari nodded in understanding. She leaped away, performing a series of hand signs, her angelic-looking wings began to flap in the air. Small traces of flora energy from plant life itself began flying in the air, steadily floating toward the serpent. It woudln't distract the serpent very long but hopefully it was enoug. At the detonation hand sign, the flora exploded, all in unison, right in the serpent's ugly face.