Name: Aburame Raito
Level/Rank: 4 (7/100) | Genin
Desired Rewards: Fukumi Hari no Jutsu and LP

SQ is done guys! Please judge this asap! Thanks. By the way, this has 40 pages in it... :wacko:

Part 1: History's Curse: The Aburame's Betrayal

“Let’s go, Hitei,” a man in the shadows said as Hitei’s and the man’s back were up against a building’s wall.

It was late at night and everybody was running in panic. The whole of Konohagure was in buzz because of the recent raid by rogues in the Aburame clan village. Shadow after shadow, people went running to and fro the whole village. The night, lit by the moon and lamps of the shinobi police, never saw action like this. Two of the Chuunin were from the Aburame clan. They were assigned to stop the group of bandits from escaping out the village. It seemed impossible for two nin to stop tens of thieves just by themselves, but that what was needed from both of them – and only from both of them.

Near the building where the two Aburame were hiding stood a small kid. He was wearing sunglasses and a big over-sized jacket. What is happening to the town? Is that Uncle Hitei? Who is that other guy with him? Raito’s thoughts remained inside his head. He did not want to startle the two more Aburame hiding behind the wall. The two Aburame bolted out to the street in front of them and ran to the Konohagure as fast as they could. Where are they going?

Raito followed them, but he was too slow for the two Chuunin Aburame. It was impossible for him to catch up like that. Being a Genin for only a few months, he was too slow to catch up with somebody like these two. Raito tried as hard as he could and soon found himself standing right behind the two. He hid behind a big oak tree and waited for something to happen. Luckily for him, something really did happen. Who are those guys? Uncle Hitei, watch your back!

“Tenshi, watch out! They’re behind us!” Hitei shouted as he lowered his body into a defensive stance. Tenshi? That guy is Aburame Tenshi? Father, I thought you were dead! Father!

Raito was now unhidden to those near the area. He shouted on top of his voice, but no one was looking at him. No one was hearing him. Why? What is happening? I don’t understand anything! Father! Uncle Hitei! Please listen to me! Can’t you hear me?

Nothing seemed to change. Tenshi and Hitei were already fighting with the bandits. With incredible strength and speed, both the Aburame struck down one enemy after another like their opponents were nothing. Raito was astonished at their skill. His jaw dropped as the team of his father and uncle continued to knock out the thieves one by one. Their unbelievable knowledge of jutsu was still mystery though. They did not use even a single jutsu in those that they defeated. The fight was too easy for them, and it seemed that they were unstoppable. They are incredible! I can’t believe they can even fight like that. And the number of those bandits… unbelievable!

Raito turned his head and decided to walk away. They did not need his help anymore. Either way, they could not even hear him. But, as soon as his body turned together with his head, several kunai went flying across his eyes. He evaded them, and now they were headed for his father and uncle. He tried to warn them, but no one heard him again. He ran towards them, but his feet were stuck. He could not move anymore. He tried to pull out his legs, but nothing was happening. He was trapped there. All he could do now was pray for their safety and hope for the best. Father, Uncle, watch out for the kunai!

Tenshi and Hitei heard the kunai headed for them. They threw an elbow each to their opponents and evaded the kunai with ease. After that, they found themselves trapped in another group of thieves. It was never ending. As soon as they would knock out some of them, more came running to join in the fight. Raito began to worry. He, unable to move, could not do anything to help his father and uncle. His shouts were of no use as well. All he could do now was watch them fight to the end. If only I could help them… damn!

Sensing danger, the two Chuunin Aburame nodded at each other signaling for a jutsu to be cast. Hand seals soon followed thereafter. Slowly, bugs from both of them flew around them. Faster and faster, the bugs encircled the two acting as a defense for both of them. The bandits that tried to pounce on them only got hurt. They soon moved a few meters away waiting for the jutsu to stop. This is it! The Mushi Kame no Jutsu – this is actually it! I can’t believe that I am seeing it with my own two eyes! It is amazing!

The kikai soon flew back to their respective masters. As soon as the two Aburame were visible, the bandits dashed to them. To their surprise, senbon were already targeted for each of them. Tenshi and Hitei threw several of their senbon to the enemies. Following the senbon, they opened their mouths and spit out more senbon. Now, they were using their jutsu. Raito, amazed with his father and uncle, stood there and saw the whole thing commence with his own two eyes. Little did he know that this would be the last time he would ever see Aburame Tenshi. Fukumi Hari no Jutsu – they are actually using their jutsu now! This is still amazing. Even if they are outnumbered, they still find a way to win against all of those rogues! Fools! Don’t they know that they can’t win against Father and Uncle! They’re just making themselves feel pain if they continue this! Hah! No one can ever defeat my father and my uncle!

Now that they were serious, Hitei and his brother released several of their insect clones to aid them with the battle. As soon as the mushi bunshin came to life, they all charged at the thieves. The thieves retaliated, and both the clones and the bandits were soon knocking each other out. Hitei and Tenshi stood their and cast another jutsu of their own. Black clouds flew over them as the fight was still going on. Soon, rain made from oil poured down on the whole area. I know this jutsu! This is the Kokuun no Jutsu! That jutsu is used in combination with a katon jutsu. I wonder what Father will be using. Hitei nodded at his brother. Tenshi followed with his own jutsu. After a series of hand seals, a dragon made entirely from fire flew around his opponents burning them to the ground. The rain of oil enhanced the fire, thus making the flames bigger. The flames made the remaining enemies flee marking the end of the fight for now. Amazing! Father and Uncle Hitei are unstoppable! Those guys finally learned to retreat. I am glad to see that Father is alive. I better go see him now.

Raito smiled as his father and uncle triumph over the enemies, but that smile would not last too long. As he waved his hands to call his father a shadow behind him rushed towards the two Chuunin Aburame. He held a sword in his right hand and attacked Tenshi as he charged his body at Raito’s father. Not noticing the attack made by the unknown shinobi, Tenshi’s dodge was a tad too late. He got hit near the abdominal area that made him kneel down on one foot. Hitei saw this and immediately dashed to the shinobi with his own attack. His attack only got blocked by the shinobi, but it did reveal his identity to Raito, his father, and his uncle. He is an Aburame too? But why did he attack Father then? What is this? I am getting more confused with what is happening!

Raito’s whole body froze in disbelief. How can a Aburame try to kill another Aburame? It seemed to be preposterous in the eyes of this young Aburame to have a fight like this. His legs began to shake as fear crept in his body. Cold sweat ran down his chest as confusion set inside his mind. He did not know what was about to happen, and he was worried about it. Finally, Tenshi stood up as Hitei helped him. Their eyes were full of anger and only saw the man in front of them. An Aburame by blood was there standing. Though he was a clan member, he attacked another Aburame just now. It was evident that he was a traitor. Raito reminded himself to stay calm and prayed for this to end quickly. “Aburame Raikuma! So you have finally decided to show your face to us! You traitor! You quickly rose to the Jounin rank, yet you decided to join these foolish thieves in their goal to destroy our village?! Why?” Tenshi shouted to the man with the evil smile on his face.

The man was named Raikuma by Raito’s Father. He wore a black ninja suit and a held a short katana in his right hand. His silvery spiked hair covered nearly half of his face that hid his left eye. Everything about him spelled “bad.” From his smile to the way his stood, it was obvious that he could not do anything good. His long white scarf that touched the ground beneath him was smeared with blood and dead kikai. It gave an evident hint to Raito that he killed quite a few Aburame before he reached the place. Anger slowly began to appear in Raito’s eyes as well. His body started to tense and tried to move, but he would again freeze up right then and there. Gah! Why can’t I move from this place! If I could only move, I would’ve helped them along time ago!

“You know what the reason is, Tenshi-boy! The Aburame have betrayed me. They promised me power, but what do I get? I get absolutely nothing from them!” Raikuma yelled back as he slashed his sword in the air to get rid of the blood from Tenshi’s wound, “I have been loyal to “your” clan for so long, but the elders never gave me anything in return! When I had this mission to find these guys that you just killed, they showed me something special. They showed my power! That power if the freedom to do whatever I please! The freedom to kill other people is the power that I always wanted! If “your” clan only gave that power to me, then maybe I could have stayed loyal to the Aburame name! But, they don’t. So what do I do now you ask? I will kill every single one of you until I am the only one left standing!”

Raikuma, after speaking, laughed at Tenshi and Hitei. Tenshi nudged his brother and said, “You are wrong, Raikuma! The Aburame clan has given you so much in return! The love and friendship that you saw all those year in the clan – isn’t that enough reason for you? Have you forgotten about all those times when you taught us the clan jutsu? We three were the best in the Aburame clan! Have you forgotten about that! If you did, then I regret to tell you that I have to kill you! Raikuma, I will do everything to stop what you have done against our clan!”

Raikuma looked at his former student, Tenshi. He giggled to himself until the laugh became loud enough to let Raito hear it. After a long while, Raikuma stopped laughing and said, “Listen, Tenshi, Hitei! You two just don’t understand what I saw with those guys. All those killing and stealing – those kinds of things just sends shivers down my spine! I feel excitement every time I had to escape the police’s watch. Well, even if I did get caught, I would kill them just like bugs. The thrill that killing brings to me is simply lovely! I guess you won’t understand that now. You haven’t even tried killing just for the sake of it! Now, I am getting irritated here. Do we fight or what?”

“You are the one who does not understand, Raikuma!” Hitei said as he formed two insect clones, “The Aburame is not a clan that kills just for the thrill! The clan that we are in has the lifelong mission to protect the innocent inside and outside this village! You are once a member of the group that agreed on helping the woman and children during a famine. Now, look what you have done to yourself! I once regarded you as my mentor and my friend. When the news broke out that you joined a band of merciless people, I tried not to believe the things that they said. But when I saw what the same group did to Aburame like us, I became ashamed that I even met such a monster! I regret being your student, Raikuma! Now is the time to settle this once and for all! With my brother at my side, we will defeat you no matter what it takes. Even if we need to sacrifice ourselves, then so be it! Prepare to die, Aburame Raikuma!”

“Ah, those words are music to my ears! At last someone is singing my tune. I always knew that you were quite the hothead, Hitei. Unlike your brother there, you always wanted to have a lot of spars with me. That’s the spirit I liked about you! I do remember those good old days when I was a part of the clan. Indeed, it was quite exhilarating at that time. Now, when I look back, all those time spent trying to help the people that couldn’t even help themselves, I can’t believe that I actually did something as boring as that! Maybe you are right after all, I am a monster. But hey, I am a very bad monster. Well, shall we begin?” said Raikuma while preparing to attack his former students.

Raikuma is their teacher? A teacher fighting his own students – I can’t believe this guy is actually that cruel. How could someone change into a cold-hearted killer in an instant? I can’t understand what’s happening! Whatever happens, I believe Father and Uncle will win this fight! Two Chuunin should be able to take on one Jounin. And, they will know what the other will do since Raikuma taught Father and Uncle. The tactics should be basically the same. But, why am I still worried? I feel that something bad is going to happen very soon. I just hope that Father and Uncle Hitei will be all right after this fight with their former mentor. I for one can’t imagine me fighting Sensei Konaru! Must they fight? If only that Raikuma guy did not betray our clan…

Hitei, together with his mushi bunshin, started the fight with their senbon. They ran around Raikuma and threw senbon at him continuously. Raikuma only blocked all of the needles with his kunai. The bunshin still encircled the ex-Jounin as they performed the Kikaichuu no Jutsu on Raikuma. The Aburame traitor performed a set of his own hand seals that created several kikaichuu shuriken that he used to attack the two clones of Hitei. The shuriken were sharp enough to kill the kikai flying to Raikuma and hit the mushi bunshin at the same time. The clones turned into kikai that crawled back to their master who was already performing another jutsu.

Tenshi still felt the wound that Raikuma inflicted on him. He tried to help his brother out, but the wound was affecting his movements. All he could do now was try to take some emergency medicine made by the nurses. He spread the medicine around the wound. The medicine acted quickly, but only temporarily. He knew the consequences if he tried to fight in his current state, but he had to do something to help Hitei. Raikuma was a clever shinobi. If they did not work together, they would certainly die in his hands one way or another.

Father, please don’t fight anymore. You are too injured to even stand up! Please, just walk away from this battle. I know Uncle Hitei can take this guy by himself! Do not worry! I know that nothing will happen to Uncle! Please, Father, please…

Raito tried to explain to his father his situation and the danger he could face. He tried to walk towards him, but again he would be stuck on the ground. He could not do anything. He cried as his father ran to fight with Hitei against their former mentor. Tears ran down his face as Tenshi started to clinch his fists and strike Raikuma with all he had left. Please stop, Father. I don’t want you to die! Please!

After an hour of fighting, the three men stood across each other gasping for air. Raikuma and Tenshi looked at each other as if preparing for the final blow. Hitei tried to stop his brother, but Tenshi only pushed him back while he whispered something to him. Raikuma grinned at Raito’s father as he preformed the hand seals for the Mushi Yaiba no Jutsu. Tenshi never said another thing while he did the same jutsu. Blades made from kikai suddenly appeared on their hands. Tenshi shifted his left foot a few inches behind his right foot as he prepared for the final attack. Raikuma just stood there as if Tenshi was not amusing him. Suddenly, both of them dashed out of sight and met at the middle of the whole area. As their blades meet, a shining light came upon the eyes of Raito. Father! Father!!!

“Raito! Wake up, Raito! Raito!” said a familiar voice that tried to wake up the sleeping Genin, “Raito, my father is calling for both of us. Hurry up and get dressed already! We can’t be late!” What? Uncle Hitei is calling for us? I guess I need to hurry then. It’s only 11 p.m.! What could he want us to do at this time of the day?

“Oh, it’s you, Kanzo,” Raito said as he scratched his eyes, “Ok, just wait for me outside. I’ll just put on some clothes and get my things. I won’t be long.”

“Ok, Raito. Please hurry! Father says that this is an emergency,” Kanzo said as he walked down the stairs.

It was all just a dream then…

Raito quickly packed up his things to catch up with his cousin. The dream still haunted him, but he had no time to be affected by it. His uncle needed summoned him, and Hitei never calls for his help unless it is of great importance. After putting on his head protector, Raito opened the front door only to see his cousin already kneeling on the wall of the young Aburame’s house. When Raito closed the door, Kanzo stood up and signaled to his cousin that they need to hurry.

Raito followed Kanzo as fast as he could. His mind still lingered with thoughts of the dream that he just experienced. Ever since he became a Genin, the same dream disturbed his sleep again and again. He tried to forget about it. But, the more he tried to, the more the dream got clearer. Raito could not help but look down on the ground before him. He looked pale as they traveled along the streets of the village. His speed was slower than ever. The dream had a negative effect on his body. He always felt that he was strong, yet it was obvious that he was still a young.

He tried to cover his problem, but Kanzo could feel his cousin’s grief. He slowed himself down for Raito and traveled along side him. As Raito looked at his cousin, Kanzo only smiled back as if saying that everything is alright. Raito smiled back and felt more relieved that Kanzo understood what he was going through. Only two people knew about the nightmare that he continually had – Kanzo and his father, Hitei. They never told anyone else about it. Even his sensei, Konaru, never knew that his pupil had a terrible dream that haunted him time and time again. For Raito, it was a weakness to have this kind of dream. He feared that it might never go away, but he knew that he had to through it.

Kanzo and his cousin continued to travel along the road to the biggest building in the Aburame village. Soon enough, the two Aburame saw their destination. Raito already overcame his state of fear when they finally reached a fork on the road. Raito looked at Kanzo then tapped him on the back. “Why did Uncle Hitei call for us, Kanzo?” Raito asked, “Is it really that important to call me this late at night? I mean, it was still 11 p.m. when we left my house.”

Kanzo looked at his cousin for awhile as they made their away to the big building. He dropped his head and said, “Just ask Father when we get there. All I can tell you is that somebody stole the clan’s precious items.”

Somebody stole our clan’s items? Who in the world could do that? This is important! But, why can’t Kanzo tell me the whole story then? Raito trusted his cousin and never said another word as they traveled down the street. He still wondered why Kanzo was so apprehensive to tell him the whole thing. It was also very unlike Kanzo to keep a secret from his cousin. They were like brothers, and seldom did they keep anything from the other. Well, I will still know the details when we meet up with Uncle Hitei. I think Uncle will not hide anything from me this important! Would he?

The two Aburame soon arrived at the front door of the large building where all the other Aburame seemed to go to. It was similar to the Ninja Academy of the Konohagure, but it was much smaller. It carried the sign of the Aburame clan above the door. Kikai were crawling in and out of the crevices of its walls. It was made of stone and cement to protect everybody inside from invaders and such. To Raito, it was the meeting place of all the important members of the Aburame clan. He was told that his father and his uncle once headed the reconnaissance group. They were known as the “Unstoppable Twins.” After his father’s death, the reconnaissance group was headed by his uncle alone.

Raito and Kanzo opened the front door of the building and soon found out that there were several rooms inside it. Kanzo pulled his cousin’s arm as he ran across the huge wooden floor dragging Raito behind him. He seemed to know where to go as he made his way across one of the corridors holding Raito’s left arm by his right. Raito decided to just have his cousin drag him to their destination as he observed all the people walking around the huge building. It was almost like his first day in the academy when Kanzo also had to drag him to his own classroom because he got lost. As he remembered his first day in the Ninja Academy, he could not help but laugh at himself for not being able to find his way to his own classroom.

Kanzo and Raito continued to make their way towards their destination as they turned left in one of the numerous halls. Room to room, the two Aburame would pass-by as if they knew everything about the area. Maybe Kanzo knows some parts of this building, but I don’t! Do we really need to go there at this pace? I want to tour this place out before going to that meeting room! This place is so huge! I wonder when I can get a tour of this place. I better ask Uncle Hitei when we meet him. As they went up a staircase, Raito noticed a Aburame shinobi with a Hyuuga inside a room. He did not expect a Hyuuga to be inside an Aburame building. Regardless, he had no time to peep inside the room since his cousin held him arm so tight that he had no choice but to follow him.

Finally, they reached a room that was labeled “Aburame Reconnaissance Room.” Raito cannot believe that he was actually entering the room that once was led by his own father. The excitement could be seen a mile away as his smile grew larger and larger. Kanzo saw that his cousin was happy to be in such a place. He, on the other hand, had his face looking down on the wooden floor. He acted as if something was wrong with Raito being in that place. Raito looked at Kanzo and wondered why his cousin was acting like that. “Kanzo, do not worry about me,” Raito said as he put his hand on top of Kanzo’s left shoulder, “You know that I can handle anything that Uncle throws at me. It’s just a matter of who and what we are dealing with here. Now, let’s go in the room. Ok, Kanzo?”

Kanzo’s expression of concern did not change. Raito began to worry himself as he tried to comfort his cousin the best that he could. Never did he see Kanzo so worried in his entire life. It was as an omen of thing to come, but Raito never realized that. He was too preoccupied with himself. Being summoned to this room meant a serious task ahead for an Aburame shinobi, but someone as young as Raito could not possibly have known that.

The two Aburame entered the room as quietly as they can, but they were soon being faced by numerous Chuunin and Jounin ranked ninjas that looked at them as if they did not belong there. Raito saw them with his own two eyes, and awe was the very first thing that came into his mind. The Aburame in front of him wore clothes similar with his, but the aura they had in their eyes almost made the young Genin’s eyes bulge out. As he turned his head to the right, Raito saw his uncle looking at him with all seriousness. Kanzo then pushed Raito’s head down as both of them bowed to their superiors. As Kanzo pulled Raito’s head back up, he whispered, “Raito, don’t look at them like that. They don’t like it when they’re being stared at. Foolish me! Having to act like that was very stupid! Anyway, I better listen to what Kanzo said. He knows more than me, so I should follow him.

After Kanzo and Raito bowed to the other Aburame, the meeting went underway as if nothing happened. Hitei and some other Jounin Aburame whispered with each other as they talked about something oblivious to Raito and his cousin. The others were also talking with each other amongst themselves. Raito did not know what to talk about, but they tried to listen to some of the older Aburame. Raito then said to his cousin, “Kanzo, why did Uncle call me again? I don’t think I am needed here. They are just talking among themselves anyway, so I think I can just go back home. Am I right, Kanzo?”

Kanzo signaled his cousin to sit down on a nearby bench with him. As soon as they sat down, Kanzo whispered, “Raito, Father will be announcing something soon. Just wait for it. I am sure that it concerns every single Aburame in here, especially you. So, just sit here and relax for awhile. I don’t know what they are talking about either, but maybe they’re talking about what to do. Don’t worry. I think they’ll soon tell you what you need to know.”

With those words from his cousin, Raito only got worried more and more. He did not expect that the mission concerned him too. Impatiently, Raito waited as he heard several whispers about him and his father. He could not make out most of the other things that they said, but he was sure that they were talking about his father’s death. Suddenly remembering the dream that he just saw, his face changed from being inquisitive to being sad. They were speaking about his father, and he did not know why they were doing so. All he knew what that something is happening that may have been connected with the death of Aburame Tenshi.

After a few minutes of talking with each other, Hitei raised his arms and began to say, “As you all know, Raikuma has escaped our prison. Several Aburame tried to capture him again, but the group of bandits that helped him escape only killed them. I and some Chuunin Aburame got to the prison too late. We only saw the silhouette of Raikuma running to the front door. He left us a note that has become the matter of this meeting. They have stolen four very important items to our clan and have kidnapped several children as well. We need to get back those items and the children, but we have only a few Chuunin and Jounin that are free to do so. This is where Kanzo and Raito come in. If all will agree, they will be assigned the mission of retrieving the clan items that were stolen from us by the traitor, Raikuma. The Chuunin and Jounin will be headed by me, and we will recover the children that were kidnapped by the group. If all goes well, the children won’t be injured and the items not destroyed. So, what does the majority say?”

The people inside the room again talked about the situation amid themselves. Buzzes could be heard outside the room. They were deciding whether or not they will two Genin Aburame into such a dangerous mission. They had no doubt that Kanzo and Raito made a very good team, but having them do a mission against the man they called Raikuma was a little out of their league. It was simply too much for two Genin to handle. Even if the two were Kanzo and Raito, it would be suicide if they were sent out all alone.

Raito was in utter disbelief. The man that killed has father, Raikuma, had escaped from prison. He, who killed for fun, has again stolen from the Aburame clan. He has again wreaked havoc in the clan that he once called his own. Raito’s body froze in fear. He did not know what to do now. What if Raikuma came for him? What if he faced the traitor in a fight? And, now that his uncle suggested that he and Kanzo in a retrieval mission, what if he fails his clan because of this fear? Everything was puzzling young Raito more and more. The noise around him seemed to die down as he began to have a flashback about the dream and his father’s death. It was not clear, but Raito pictured himself in his father’s shoes. Could he, a mere Genin, possibly die like his father at this time? He felt that he was not ready for it. He felt that he would just run away like a coward if he would face Raikuma.

Kanzo tried to speak to his cousin, but he decided not to. He sensed that Raito was trying to comfort himself. If Kanzo disturbed him now, Raito might just go ballistic. He does not want that to happen with his cousin. After awhile, Kanzo saw Raito drop his head. He held Raito’s hand as he smiled at him. He could not imagine his cousin feeling that way, and he cannot help Raito on his problem. As he held his hand, he whispered softly, “Raito, I know this is hard for you. Try to understand that the past is past. What we need to do now is to try helping out clan get back what Raikuma and his group stole from us. I know that you have not yet recovered from the death of Uncle Tenshi, but we need you help. The clan needs you in this mission, Raito. Try and be strong enough to overcome what you are feeling right now.”

The words of his cousin sent a message to Raito’s heart. Kanzo is right. I can’t cower down just because of what happened a long time ago. If I did that, I will disgrace my family! I cannot let that happen now! My father has been protecting Konoha up until his death! It is my turn to guard it now! I cannot let Raikuma or anybody else destroy what my father and my clan have tried to protect with their own lives! How stupid of me to even think of such things!

Raito stood up from the chair. Kanzo thought that he was going to run away, but he was wrong. Raito walked to his uncle and yelled, “I accept this mission, Uncle Hitei! But, I ask that I bring several other Genin with Kanzo and me to aid us in this retrieval mission. I know quite a few shinobi that can help us. With your approval, I am sure that we can get those things back from that Raikuma guy! If majority approves, then I shall be on my way to look for those Genin that I have in mind.”


All of the Aburame inside the area were surprised and speechless. They never knew that Raito grew up to be just like his father. Tenshi had a son to be proud of. They still noticed that Raito’s legs were shaking, but his courage to stand up even if he was afraid made them realize that he, Aburame Raito, has indeed matured into a fine young Genin. Soon, he will be one of the shinobi that will return the name of the Aburame back into its former luster.

Raito, trying to cover up his shaking legs, spoke again. He said, “Of course, the group of Genin will be headed by my cousin. We will train for one day to prepare us for the inevitable fight against the bandits. I do know that it is possible that we will fight Raikuma, but the numbers are stacked against him. We can actually win if we fight together, hence my request of having more Genin for this mission. Also, I would like to have a request to ask for a Chuunin to guide us. That would be Yukina Konaru, my sensei. He will be the one that will be guiding us in our training. May I have the majority’s opinion?”

Hitei, astounded at what his nephew had planned, said, “You have a nice plan there, Raito. I, for one, agree with what you have just said. But, I have to disagree with only one thing. I think that Konaru must lead your team, Raito. It is true that Kanzo can lead the team, but being the leader is too much work for a Genin. Even if Kanzo will be taking the Chuunin Exam in a month from now, I feel that the pressure might be too much for him to handle. Besides, Kanzo might actually learn something from his former teacher as well. Do you have anything against my decision, Kanzo?”

“No, Father,” Kanzo replied, “I agree that Sensei Konaru will make a better leader than me at this time. And yes, I might actually learn a thing or two from him. Only one thing remains to be done at this moment, do the people in this meeting agree with what Raito and my father have said? I, Aburame Kanzo, agree with them.”

Raito did not expect his idea to have such an effect on his uncle and Kanzo. He only spoke out because he thought that it was something that could help them with the retrieval of the clan items. He did agree that his sensei should be the one that should lead them in the mission. Well, if he did lead us, then that will give us another advantage against Raikuma! What a great idea! We are so lucky that Uncle Hitei is on our side and not on Raikuma’s!

The Aburame inside the room nodded their heads at Hitei. They agreed with the plan. If they had a choice to help Raito and his group, they would do all that they can. But, the problem is that they needed to save the children that were kidnapped. That was more important than the clan items simply because the children are the light of the Aburame’s future. When all finally agreed on the idea, Hitei said, “Ok, Raito, you can now find those teammates that you were talking about. I trust that you will report to me their names tomorrow night. For now, you can prepare as much as you want for your mission. I will pray for your safety and wish you the best of luck!”

“Thank you, Uncle Hitei! I will do my best!” Raito said with glistening eyes. Ok, now I need to find those guys! I just hope I finish what I have planned by tomorrow!

(OOC: I post approx 5 pages per post. This SQ will be done after 5 more posts from yours truly! ^_^)

Kanzo and his cousin exited the room without any noise. They had a dangerous mission to do, and they needed to find more members of their group. Raito had an idea who they were, but the problem was where they would meet for the training. As the two young Aburame headed across several halls of the large buildings, they wondered what may happen when the team has been assembled. How would they perform? Will it just turn into a disaster? A lot of questions have not yet been answered, and they had no time to argue about it now. They had no choice but to build a team of people who have not yet met before. It was a risk that they had to take. If they did not, then the mission would absolutely be a failure. Raito and Kanzo knew what they had to do, and that what exactly what they did.

The two Genin, one almost a Chuunin, made their way through the busy corridors of the Aburame building. Several of the other shinobi there were looking at them. The cousins paid no attention to all those around them. They were too focused with the mission that they were tasked to do. The inquisitive look on the people only made them even more concentrated. Raito and Kanzo did not want to answer any more questions because they might not have enough knowledge to reply to their query. The cousins were only asked to help their clan, and that is what they intended to do. Suddenly, several Chuunin Aburame came up to them. Kanzo and his cousin respectfully bowed their heads down to the Aburame in front of them. “Good luck, Kanzo,” one of the Chuunin said, “Is this here the son of Tenshi? You have grown to be a fine shinobi, Raito. I know this mission is hard on you, but I think you know pretty well that you are vital to our clan’s success. We wish both of you good luck on the mission. I know you guys can make it.”

“Thank you. Well, we still have to find our teammates for the mission. We still don’t know how they would interact with each other, but my cousin here trusts them. That’s enough reason for me to also have faith in them. I do not know them either, but we are in a critical situation now. We need to work with what we have. Anyway, I also wish all of you the best of luck!” Kanzo said as he nudged Raito to say something to their superiors.

“Ah, well, yes! Best of luck to you guys too!” Raito said while he was still looking at the flak jackets and weapons of the Chuunin in front of him. Kanzo did not need to elbow like that. I knew that I had to say something to these Chuunin. How do I get those jackets that they have? I suppose that I will get something like that when I become a Chuunin too! Those just look awesome!

They waved goodbye to their superiors and continued to walk towards the front door. There were still people running around the building as if they did not need any sleep. The building was so busy that it reminded Raito of the time when he went to academy for his graduation. It was noisy, but happy. When one went up the stage, several of the academy student’s friends would cheer for the soon-to-be Genin. As soon as the new Genin went down from the platform, people flocked to him as they congratulated the shinobi for a job well done. This building had quite a similar aurora. But, its busyness was caused by the Raikuma. Instead of the people congratulating a newly graduated Genin, some mourned for their dead loved one. It was saddening for Raito to see such pain in other Aburame. I promise to get back those items for the clan! No matter what happens, those items will return to the Aburame clan!

When the cousins reached the front door, Raito looked back at the building. I may never see the same sight again. I just hope that we can return safe and sound after all is set and done. Kanzo put his hand on his cousin’s shoulder. “Don’t worry, Raito, I know we can do this mission. Besides, why would Father have us do this if we did not have what it takes right? Just think of it this way, we will be bringing back some of the most important items of our clan. That should be more than enough reason why we should do this mission. Anyway, I forgot to get the information on the things we have to get back from Raikuma and his group. You go on and find those people that you were talking about. I’ll go back in and get the data that we need for the mission. Let’s meet up in the training area when you have already gathered the Genin that you wanted to join us in the mission,” Kanzo said after he smiled to his cousin.

He’s absolutely right. Now, I need to find Tenka, Kenji, and that Hyuuga I met just a few weeks ago. Oh yeah, I need to tell Sensei Konaru too! I wonder if his daughter, Reika, would be joining us too. Anyway, we need all the help we can get! The more, the merrier! Raito smiled back at his cousin. He knew Kanzo was trying to reassure him. Raito nodded at Kanzo and said, “Sure, you can go back to get that info. I mean, we do need it anyway. I guess we’ll just meet up when everything is ready then. I’ll have Sensei Konaru tell you if we are already in the training area. And, Kanzo, don’t worry about me anymore. Just do what you need to do, and I’ll do the same. Well, bye then! See you later!”

After a long goodbye, the two walked their separate ways. Raito was now confident with himself again, and he felt better than ever. After those talks with all those people, he realized how they cared about him. As he walked down the road to his sensei’s house, he could not help looking at the stars that were still shining in the sky. Though they were small, Raito always took pleasure in looking at them when he had the time to. When he finally reached Konaru’s house, he thought that it would be rude to knock on the door at that time of the day. So, he jumped up to the roof of the house, and knocked instead at the window there. He knew that his sensei liked to sleep in their attic, so Raito was not afraid to make a noise on the roof. With his right hand, the young Aburame used his knuckles to knock the window of his teacher’s attic. He tried limiting his strength to prevent Konaru’s wife and his daughter to wake up.

Raito tried a few more knocks. Finally, a shadow came to the window and opened it. It was Reika, Konaru’s only daughter. The Genin wondered why the girl was the one who opened the window. It was unlike her to be sleeping in the attic of their house. Regardless, Raito pointed his finger to an empty space inside the house. He wanted to go in through the attic, and Reika showed him to a small chair. Raito sat down and waited for Konaru for awhile. After a few minutes, Reika came in the attic with Konaru already standing beside her. Raito stood up and bowed at his teacher. He showed the seat to Konaru, and Konaru gladly took it. When he was already comfortable sitting on the chair, he said, “So, what brings you here at one in the morning, Raito? It isn’t normal for young kids like you to stay up so late like this.”

“Well, Konaru-sensei, someone by the name of Raikuma has stolen some important clan items,” Raito explained, “I was asked by my uncle to request that you guide us in the mission to retrieve those items from the bandits. That’s why I am here. Also, I need some Genin in the team to aid Kanzo and me in the mission. If Reika wants, she can join this mission. It will be dangerous though, so I will understand if she would not want to join. I will ask some other people to join us anyway.”

“So, Raikuma has escaped from prison, eh? Well, I will gladly lead you guys in the mission. But, I don’t think that I like the idea of Reika joining us in this little expedition that we will be having. It’s just too dangerous for someone like her,” Konaru said as he stretched his arms and legs while yawning.

Raito knew that his teacher would say such a thing. Konaru was only worried with the safety of Reika. The young Aburame understood what Konaru just said. Raito even felt that the mission was too dangerous even for him, but he had to do it. Raito went to the window and opened it. He then looked back at his teacher and said, “Ok, Sensei, whatever you say. Meet us up in the training area later at ten o’clock then. Well, I have this weird feeling that Reika will try forcing you to her in the mission. I need to go now, Konaru-sensei. See you later! Bye!”

Raito leaped from the window back to the roof. He ran across the house and jump onto another roof again. It was only a half past one in the morning, but he still had so much to do. From roof to roof, Raito traveled across the houses until he reached his second destination. The house was near the outskirts of Konohagure and close to the Hyuuga village. With one more giant leap, the Genin finally arrived at Gorosho Tenka’s house. It was the same house where Gorosho Toushi, Tenshi’s former Genin teammate, lived. Now, he had to ask the assistance of Toushi’s son. He trusted this family will help him because it was Tenshi who once saved Toushi from certain death.

The Aburame kneeled down on one foot as he landed on solid ground. He stood up and walked over to the Gorosho’s front door. He tried to knock at the door, but it suddenly swung open almost hitting the Raito’s face. Toushi noticed the Genin standing before him, and he wondered why he was there. Raito was then escorted into the house by his Father’s former companion. Toushi offered him and seat and gave him a cup of tea to drink. The young shinobi had a sip of the green tea before explaining why he was there that early in the morning. After a couple of minutes, Raito put down the tea cup and said, “I will go straight to the point here, ok? Raikuma has escaped from prison and has stolen quite a few items that are valuable to our clan. I am here to ask for your son’s assistance in this matter because I know that he can help us with his skills as a Genin. If you do not approve, then I will gladly accept your decision and find the two more shinobi that I have in mind. If you approve, then please tell Tenka that we need to meet up at ten o’clock in the training area.”

“I see. I’ll let my son choose if he wants to join you guys or not. It’s not my place to refuse him in doing something now anyway. Well, it’s still early. You better ask the others if they want to join your cause as well. That way, if my son does not want to go with you, then as least you have some other Genin to replace that empty slot. What time do you want to meet up again? Was it ten o’clock?” Toushi asked.

“Ok then, sir. Yes, we will meet with the other shinobi in the training area at ten o’clock. Don’t worry. I will hold no grudge against Tenka if he chooses not to join. It is a dangerous mission that could possibly lead to one of us dying. Anyway, I better get going now. I have two more people that I need to talk with concerning this mission. I hope to see Tenka in the training area later! Good bye, sir!” Raito said as he stood up and walked to the door.

Toushi helped him open the door and showed him the way out. Raito left a puff of smoke as he made his way towards the Hyuuga village after he bowed respectfully to the Chuunin. Toushi stood outside of there house and curled up his arms while he smiled. After a few seconds, he decided to go back inside their house. At that time, his son had already heard everything that Toushi and Raito talked about. Little did they know that the young Gorosho had long been spying on them since the Aburame entered their home.

Under normal circumstances, I don’t think the Hyuuga would let me enter their village. I guess I’ll just request an appointment with Hyuuga Hashiba. I think he lives near the edge of their village, so I’ll have me escorted inside their house then. I hope this plan works. Raito bolted to the Hyuuga village hurrying to find his friend, Hashiba. As he reached the entrance to the village, he immediately noticed four guards patrolling near the gate. Though the gate was open, security was tight. If the Genin would try to break in the village, he would get caught in just a matter of minutes. So, Raito just walked straight to the open gate and asked if he could be escorted to the house of Hyuuga Hashiba.

At first, the guards thought suspiciously of the young Aburame. They used their Byakugan on him and quickly detected the kikai inside his body. One of the guards pointed his sword at his throat. Raito clinched his fist preparing for any attack from the Hyuuga. Instead, the guard said, “Come with me, boy. I will be the one to escort you to our home.”

‘Our home’? That means he’s Hashiba’s father! And I almost thought that I would have to fight him. Better follow him now. I might get lost in this big village! Raito and the Hyuuga walked along the streets of the village. The Aburame followed from behind as Hashiba’s father led him to a large house. Raito, amazed at the site, entered the house right after the Hyuuga did. They sat down on a large round dining table while the Genin waited for his friend to come down.

“Wait here, boy. I’ll ask my son to come down from his room. Here’s something to drink while you wait. Try not to break anything,” the Hyuuga said to Raito.

Hashiba hurriedly ran down the stairs and almost tripped because of a wet portion on the floor. “What is it, Father?” he asked.

“Well, there’s somebody from the Aburame clan here to see you. I don’t know why he had to come at this time of the day, but I guess it is something important. I have this sudden tingling feeling that he needs you for something. Just don’t do anything stupid, ok, kiddo?” Hashiba’s father said. I detect some hostility from this guy. Is he really the father of Hashiba? I never saw that kind of attitude from Hashiba ever since the day we met. Anyway, I have more important things to attend to. I’ll worry about that attitude problem later.

“Ah, it’s you. What is it that wanted to tell me? Don’t mind my father. He’s really like that when he meets a new person.” Hashiba said to his friend.

Raito laughed at his friend’s comment on his own father. After they joked about Hashiba’s father for little while longer, Raito decided that it was time to talk about the mission. He explained every bit that he knew about the mission. He said that the items were very precious to the clan, and they needed Hashiba’s help to get it back from Raikuma and his band of thieves. As Raito continued to explain, Hashiba looked more and more excited. Finally, Raito said, “Well, I think that’s basically all that I know of. My cousin, Kanzo, got more information from his father. He will be with is in the meeting place later. That is if you decide to join us in our mission. So, what do you say, Hashiba?”

“I think the mission is as dangerous as you explained it to be, but I guess I will be joining the group. I have waited for something that would give me a rush for so long now. This is my chance, and I don’t want to miss it! I’ll be there by nine thirty, so don’t worry about me. And, my father won’t mind me going away in a mission. He actually wants me to go to one. Oh yeah, have you tried talking to Kenji about it too? I think he is also aching for a mission,” Hashiba asked.

“That’s my problem,” Raito said, “I need to get some sleep now, but I still need to talk with Kenji. Can I ask you to do that for me? You could call him right? Thanks for accepting my offer. We really need your help on this. I don’t even know if the others have decided yet. The meeting’s not until ten anyway, so they have a lot of time to choose to join in the mission. I need to go now. I’ll try asking Kenji later.”

Hashiba laughed at his friend and said, “I’ll tell him about it ok? I don’t think you can stand one more hour without sleep. Anyway, I better show you the way out our village. You might collapse or something.”

“Thanks, Hashiba, I really appreciate your help.” Raito said as he yawned loudly.

Hashiba helped his friend up and accompanied him to gate again. Raito told him that he would be alright for the rest of the way home. Hashiba punched him on his left cheek to make him wakeup. The Aburame thank his friend again and walked slowly back to his own village.

I hope all of them will show up tomorrow. Only Kanzo, Sensei, and Hashiba have actually agreed on joining this mission. Don’t know about the rest yet, but I just hope they also decide to join us. When he reached his house, Raito just took of his sandals and dropped on his bed while still in his outfit. The moment that he lied down, the young Aburame quickly went into a deep sleep while snoring so loud that the windows shaked from it.

(OOC: This is basically the post for the jutsu I was asking. Well, I still have to add more pages because this one lacks some points of the jutsu, get those pages from the other posts in this SQ then... :wacko:)

The sun rose as the young Genin still slept comfortably on his bed. Outside his house, the people already moved all around the village. Though it was noisy outside, Raito did not seem to hear a thing. The tired Aburame just got his pillow and hid his head under it. With his back facing the open window, he continued to rest knowing that he will have a hard task ahead of him.

After a couple of hours, the alarm clock rung so loud that it forced Raito to wake up from his slumber. He turned it off, and realized that it was already nine o’clock. He stretched his body for a couple of minutes, and immediately went to the bathroom to take a nice warm bath. His whole body still felt slightly sore, but he had no time to think about it now. In one hour, he had to meet with those that decided to join him and Kanzo in their mission to retrieve the things Raikuma stole from the Aburame clan. He then toweled up and put on some new clothes. After eating a very light breakfast, he looked at the clock only to see that he had only fifteen minutes to go to the training area where he would meet up with his cousin. That was a nice sleep. I did not have the nightmare that time. I hope it stays that way. Well, it’s time to go to the training area. Kanzo and Hashiba should be there by now. Sensei Konaru must be there waiting for me too. I wonder if Kenji, Tenka, and Reika will be joining us. I do want their help on this. Raito, after getting all his things, left his house and walked towards the training area at a fast pace.

As he made his way to the meeting place, the Aburame noticed that there was not as much people in their village as there normally would be. He wondered if it was because of the trauma Raikuma caused on them. He slowed down when he noticed a couple crying along the street. Raito tried to look at what they were crying about. He instantaneously turned his head to the other direction when he saw that the couple was crying because of a child lying down on the ground stained with dried blood. Furious, Raito ran to the training grounds for the rest of the way. Teardrops raced down the Genin’s face swearing to catch Raikuma if he saw him.

When he arrived at the entrance to the training grounds, Raito heard shouts very familiar to him. He entered the place and saw his teacher already practicing with Hashiba some basic punches and kicks. After wiping off the water on his cheeks, the Aburame smiled at Konaru and Hashiba while he sat down at a log under a big tree. He watched his white-eyed friend talk to Konaru about some of the famous Hyuuga techniques that he was already taught of. The open-palm was one of them, and Raito always admired the technique from afar. Although Hashiba was his friend, the Genin also feared his power and skill. Their skills were not far from each other, but Raito felt that there were things that Hashiba could do that he cannot. Simply put, he feared the Byakugan eye because of the stories he had heard about it.

Raito stood up and decided that it was time for him to warm-up for the training. But, as soon as he began to stretch his arms, several shadows from the entrance caught his attention. The sun cleared up the faces of the people walking to the young Aburame. The first one that he noticed was his friend, Uchiha Kenji. Raito waved at him as he ran to meet up with Kenji. When he got closer to Kenji, Tenka was walking along side the Uchiha waving back at the Aburame already. Glad to see both of them, Raito went to his friends as quickly as he could only to see another shinobi standing at the edge of the training grounds as well. That ninja was Konaru’s daughter, Reika.

Kenji remained his calm self as he walked to the training area. Raito always knew that the Uchiha were like this, and he held no grudge against them. Actually, it was this trait that made Kenji and him friends. Because of Kenji being so cool and composed all the time, Raito had no problem with him in anything that he tried to do or explain. The Aburame, though, had the same awkward feeling he had with his other comrade, Hashiba with Kenji. Being an Uchiha, Kenji had the eyes called the Sharingan. Although not fully developed, the eyes had incredible power in them. Everyone knew about this, and Raito would always remind himself not to make any wrong move against his Uchiha friend that could release the power of the Sharingan.

Tenka was very unlike Kenji. Raito walked up to the Gorosho smiling at him. Tenka pointed at the Aburame’s nose. As Raito tried to look at his own nose, Tenka pinched it and laughed at his gullible friend. Raito laughed at the prank and showed them the way to the training area. Then, he turned his attention to the young Reika at a distance. Raito did not know why she was there, but he had to do something. He went up to her and tapped her on the back signaling that she should go sit on the log near the group of Genin. Grinning, Reika accepted the offer and ran to the log as Raito walked slowly after her. Only one shinobi was missing – Aburame Kanzo.

Kanzo is not here yet. He isn’t normally late at anything. What is taking him then? Well, maybe he only got trouble with the information. Anyway, I guess we should start the training now. We will start the mission tomorrow, so the only day that we have to prepare for it is today. We don’t have much time left. Come to think of it, everyone that I invited is here. That’s good. I won’t wait for him anymore. I’ll ask Sensei to train us now. Raito thought as he went to his sensei to have a talk about the training. Kanzo was indeed late, but the team could not wait for him. If they wanted to at least have a chance against the group of Raikuma, then they had to train as long and as hard as possible. Since they had only half a day to do so, they could not possibly wait for Kanzo. Besides, Raito knew that Kanzo had more than enough training because of Kanzo’s father, Hitei.

Trying not to disrupt the others, Raito pulled his teacher away from the group. In his attempt to do so, Reika noticed it and joined to talk. Raito explained to Konaru that this training was supposed to be in preparation for a possible bloody battle with all those bandits of Raikuma’s group. Although it was supposed to be a group practice, the Aburame knew that it would be hard for the team of Genin to train as a whole. So, Raito told his sensei that, if possible, the training would be somewhat conducted by small groups of people with at least a pair of shinobi per group. As they continued to talk about the training that the Genin would be having, Kanzo showed up with a scroll at hand. Raito looked at him and gestured at him to come over. Kanzo nodded at his cousin and came over as soon as he could.

Finally, the talk among Raito, Kanoru, Reika, and Kanzo ended in an agreement. The group huddle dispersed and Konaru said, “Ok, Raito pointed out something to me just now. I know that it was all so sudden of him to ask us to join him in this mission, but we accepted the invitation. So, first of all, I would like to welcome all you Genin that will be joining with us in this extremely dangerous mission. Now, I would like to explain the training that we have just talked about. All of you will be divided in to several groups that will be training with each other. The minimum number of shinobi per group is two, and the maximum will be three. Basically, this training will make you know each other better and give you a good solid work out with the partners you are assigned to. After everyone has chosen what type of training they want to have, we will begin the training immediately. Are there any questions?”

“I have a question, Konaru-sensei!” Hyuuga Hashiba said, “You said that we have partners assigned to us right? So, who would be our partners then? Well, I was thinking that my partner would not like what I want to be training on. How do we choose what type of training we would want then?”

“Yes, Hashiba, I was just going to tell you who your partner are. As for the training, I am giving you fifteen minutes to choose one. Don’t choose any training that is only for your own sake. I don’t want to see any clan jutsu being trained here. Now, I will shout out your partners for this training. Please listen carefully because I won’t repeat this again. Hashiba, you go with Tenka. Kenji, your partner is Kanzo. Reika will be training with Raito. I will be supervising all the training from afar. The only thing that I will be doing is to guide you in your training. Now, choose what you want to train and start as soon as possible!”

This should be a very interesting training for those guys, but I wonder why Sensei assigned me with Reika. Anyway, she is a strong shinobi. I’ve seen her train the Shunshin no Jutsu. She was great back then! I suppose nothing bad has changed since that day. Well, I am sure I will have a nice training with her. But, what will we train then? All I know is that I have a new set of senbon that I can train with. If she has a set too, then maybe we can train for the Fukumi Hari no Jutsu! Yeah! I’ll go ask her then! This is going to be great!

Raito walk to his partner and asked her if she had a set of senbon with her. Reika wondered why the Aburame asked for it. She opened her small pouch located at her left leg and showed the senbon to him. Raito’s eyes lit up and showed her that he had a set of senbon too. Quickly, the Raito explained to her why he asked if she had a set of senbon or not. Reika nodded in agreement. Now that they had a training that they both could use for the mission, they went to Konaru to ask for an opinion on what possible training they could do for the Fukumi Hari no Jutsu. Excited, Raito ran to his sensei while Reika lagged behind him. Great! Now that we can train for the Fukumi Hari no Jutsu, all we need now is how to train the jutsu!

The Aburame told his teacher that they already agreed on what to train for. Being the first one to have asked Konaru, Raito was sure that they were in an advantage. So, wasting no time at all, he asked what training they should undergo in order to master the Fukumi Hari no Jutsu. Konaru nodded and smiled at his student and said, “So you want to learn the Fukumi Hari no Jutsu? It is a very useful technique for you and my daughter especially in a mission like this one. For the training, I suggest that both of you should try target practice first. After you two improved in your accuracy in throwing those needles, which will be hard considering that we have limited time for this training, you can start putting some in your mouth and spitting them to your targets. That’s already one of the most basic trainings that you two can do, but it will be enough for both of you. Now, go and train for that jutsu!”

Raito thanked Konaru with a respectful bow and immediately told his partner how they should do it. Reika had her own idea on the training and told it to Raito as politely as she could. Seeing that their ideas were not far from being one and the same, the Aburame improvised his idea so that it would be, more or less, similar to what Reika had in mind. So, after a few more talks about their training, Reika and her partner picked their place in the huge training area and hastily prepared for their training.

The Aburame was first to begin his arrangements on the place. He put up some target paper that he got from his uncle, and he nailed them onto several logs that were already hoisted up by some ropes tied to a nail on the ground. Each log had one target paper on each side – the log’s north and south side. Reika would be the one to train on the log’s north side, while Raito trained on the opposite side of the log. After he finished the preparations, the two immediately began their own warm-up exercises by throwing some senbon on the logs.

Raito got some of his senbon and threw them to the target in front him. The needles did hit the paper, but they did not hit the middle point of the target. The Aburame threw for the second time and felt a gush of wind blowing to the south. The needles, this time, did not hit the paper. He noticed that his senbon only hit the log. Unsatisfied with the result, Raito tried for the third time. Again, the result was not what he wanted. He was not irritated at what he was getting, but he was quickly running out of his needles. If this was a real fight against several people, he would have already lost all his senbon without even scratching any of his opponents. He tried it for the fourth time trying to realize what he was doing wrong. The senbon would fly straight to the paper, but they would change their directions once a gust of wind blew by. Not knowing what he could do with the wind, Raito tried for a fifth time only to get the same result again. He tried changing the position of his body, but nothing changed the point where the senbon would hit the target paper. Then, the Aburame tried shifting his weight from one side to the other. This only made him throw the needles either too strong or too weak. Realizing that he had no more senbon in his pouch, Raito walked towards the logs as he took out the needles that were stuck on them.

It seems that the wind has something to do with this. I have tried changing my postion and shifting my weight already, but nothing has changed the results. Well, I should be missing something important from all of this. I have to recall what I did to the Kikaichuu Shuriken no Jutsu I did with Uncle Hitei and Kanzo. Shuriken should technically have the same reaction with needles. What I did then was throwing the shuriken at a certain angle that followed the wind. Yeah! That should do the trick!

The young Aburame peeked at his partner. Reika had the same problem as he had. Seeing as though she did not yet figure out why she was having trouble, Raito approached her and told her to try it the idea he had. After a few moments thinking about her partner’s idea, Reika agreed to try it out. Raito returned to his side of the area and tried out his idea as well. Getting a few senbon from his pouch again, the Aburame position himself by putting his left foot in front of his right. He twisted his body to shift his weight to his right side. Crouching on the ground, the young boy’s body was twisted to its limit. Raito then tried to observe how the wind blew. When he noticed it moved, he spun his body back to its upright position while throwing the needles at the same time. The senbon finally hit the bull’s eye area of the first target paper. Having been successful on the sixth try, Raito paid little interest and threw the seventh time towards another log to the left of the first one. He had succeeded yet again, but he knew that it was not yet enough. To spit out the needles from the mouth was harder than this, and he had to master the first part before going to the second phase of the training. The Aburame tried two more times just to be sure that he was doing it right. And, everything was indeed perfect. With that aside, the only thing left was to master the second part of the training. How would he spit the needles from his mouth to the targets?

Moving on to the second part of the training, Raito put some of the senbon slowly into his mouth. To prevent himself from swallowing the thin needles, he put them in between his teeth. He then closed his mouth realizing that he would be too obvious to his enemies if he would be seen clinching his teeth in front of them. Raito then tried putting chakra onto his tongue which he will be using to propel the senbon to his target. Deciding that the chakra he focused was already enough, Raito used his tongue to spit the senbon to the target paper that was nailed to one of the logs. Because of the chakra, the needles hit the paper. Though Raito did actually hit the paper, the senbon did not even hit the outermost circle of the drawn target.

Raito tried to recall what he mistakes he made again. As his mind went back in time, Raito began picking up and pulling out the senbon from the logs again. Then, an idea suddenly crossed his mind. Putting back some needles into his mouth, he began putting chakra on his tongue again. This time though, he also put some chakra on the needles that would act somewhat like that of a sail of a boat. That chakra on the senbon would help it move towards the target at a much faster speed and at a better angle. This would thus help Raito hit the target more accurately if he succeeded on hitting the bull’s eye on the target paper. As soon as he felt that there was enough chakra on the senbon and on his tongue, the young Aburame put them in-between his teeth again and opened his mouth as he spat out several needles to the target paper directly in front of him. The wind blew only to push the needles at a much a higher speed. Having chakra on the senbon did help them reach the target. When the wind died down, all that Raito saw was nothing but the senbon hitting the bull’s eyes of the target. Elated at his success, the Aburame tried again and again to master the Fukumi Hari no Jutsu. After a few more perfect hits, Raito helped his partner, Reika, out as well. I should try to help her out as well. We are partners after all, and partners need to help each other out.

After she also perfected the jutsu, they asked Konaru to teach them the hand seals for it. Konaru willingly helped them out. After another couple of minutes memorizing and doing the hand seals, Raito and Reika had finally finished what they wanted to train for. Seeing as everybody else was also putting their own finishing touches on their training, Raito was happy that everyone there was cooperative with their respective partners.

That’s done. Now, we will be going to the real thing. The battle against the bandits is not far ahead!

Everybody had just finished their own trainings. All of them were tired and wanted to rest at least for awhile. Kanzo and Raito both laid down on the nice cool grass and talked about their younger days. The Hyuuga and the Uchiha had an interesting talk with each other that concerned their clans’ history. Reika helped her father clean up the mess the other Genin made, while Tenka just sat all alone as he listened to Hashiba and Kenji comparing their Doujustu with the other. Laughter could be heard inside the training grounds. Everything seemed to be just a normal day. All of them knew that the day would have to end though, and everyone just tried to make the most of the break they were having.

Konaru clapped his hands to get everybody’s attention after the group’s two hour break. All the Genin stood up and formed a circle with Konaru in the middle. Raito’s sensei then told the group to sit down comfortably because he will be starting to brief the group on what they would be doing in the mission. The group followed him and sat down as quietly as they could. Kanzo got the scroll from his pouch and gave it to Konaru. Raito tried to peek, but his teacher slap him with the scroll instead. Making a face at Konaru, the young Aburame crossed his arms as he waited for his sensei to tell them the details written in the scroll.

It was awhile before Konaru actually read out loud what was written inside the scroll. He read it silently at first since he wanted to understand every bit of information in it. Then, he rolled the scroll up again. Noticing that his teacher had several written letters at hand, Raito stood up and asked if he could be the one to give out the letters to the rest of the shinobi. Konaru nodded and handed his pupil the letters. Raito gladly took the letters and quickly gave one letter to each of the Genin. There were names written on the letters, so it was easy for the young Aburame to give them out to the respective recipients. After he had given out all of the letters to each of his friends, he opened up his own letter. Raito then read the letter silently.

Raito folded the letter and put it back into the envelope as he looked at the sky above him. It was a nice day. Everything seemed to be perfect. He smiled knowing that his uncle was watching over them even though he was far away. Raito got the letter and raised it up and stared at it for awhile. After a couple of minutes, he put it inside his oversized jacket and looked at his cousin. He noticed that Kanzo was still reading his own letter. Raito read his own letter faster than the others, so he decided to wait for them by gazing at the clouds again. His cousin then whistled for his attention. The Aburame just raised his right hand and made a thumbs-up sign as his eyes still followed the skies above them. Kanzo smiled back at him, and folded back his own letter into the envelope thereafter. Soon, everyone was finished reading their own paper. Konaru then called the group’s attention again after letting the group discuss what their letters talked about. Raito remained silent in all that time and just continued to stare at the sky as the sun shined down upon them.

The group stopped what they were talking about when Konaru snapped his fingers. Upon noticing that he had more than enough time to discuss the details of the mission after lunch, he said, “I don’t suppose you guys have eaten yet. And, Kanzo’s father here gave me a lot of money to spend on my own. Well, why don’t I treat the group in the ramen shop nearby? Is there anyone up for it? I know I am!”

The group stared at each other. Suddenly, everyone heard a large growl. Tenka laughed at Raito whose stomach made the sound. Blushing, Raito said, “I sure am up for your offer, Sensei! Let’s go then! I am hungry! I could eat a whole horse just about now! Come on guys, what are you waiting for! Let’s pack our bags and order up some delicious food from that ramen store!”

The group giggled at their Aburame friend, and quickly packed their things. After everyone was ready, Raito led the way to the ramen store where Konaru treated them to a nice big lunch. Reika was shocked at the boys when they ordered so many foods that were nearly impossible for her to imagine eating everything in just one seating. Tenka and Raito ate their ramen so fast that they almost suffocated because of it. Hashiba and Kenji delicately drank their tea showing how dignified both of their clans were. Kanzo talked with his former mentor, Konaru, in a table far from the others so as not to be disturbed by Raito’s and Tenka’s noisy eating habits. After an hour of eating, everyone was so full that they had to wait for awhile until they could even try to move. Finally, Konaru paid for the food that each of them ordered and told them to meet him later at the academy. “Take a nap, guys. You deserve it. Let’s just meet up at the academy at four o’clock this afternoon. I will be waiting for all of you there. I assume that no one of you will get lost simply by going there,” he said as he looked at Raito with a somewhat comical face.

Raito reached his house earlier than expected. Noticing that he had not cleaned his house for over a week now, he picked up a broom and swept the whole house while he had still time to do so. The Aburame cleaned his house the best he could. He reminded himself that cleanliness reflected his inner self. After washing all the dishes that he dumped in the kitchen sink, Raito went up to his bed and laid waiting for the sandman to put him to sleep.

While he tried to sleep, the young Genin suddenly had a short but meaningful flashback. He remembered the time when he was being trained by his uncle on his Mushi Bunshin no Jutsu. Being a stubborn little brat, Raito did not want to listen to what his uncle was trying to tell him. That left Hitei no choice. He spanked the little kid, and Raito cried his heart out. Then, his uncle explained how important it was for him to learn such a basic jutsu. Even though Raito thought that the technique was utterly useless, Hitei told him a story where Tenshi and he were fighting against a large group of shinobi. They had to use the insect clone technique in the fight, and the jutsu saved them. After the story, Hitei explained that even the smallest thing might save a person’s life. Be it a basic justu or a lonely kunai, a person depends on how he uses that thing to survive in times of trouble. Raito stopped crying and apologized to his uncle. Smiling, Hitei helped him stand back up and trained him again and again for the jutsu. Now that Raito was a Genin, he never again complained about any training from his uncle or his teacher, Konaru. Grinning to himself, the young Aburame slowly closed his eyes as he quickly went into a slumber.

Woken up by his alarm clock, Raito turned to the left side of his bed to turn it off. He got up and looked at the clock. It’s three o’clock already. Better get ready to go to the academy. Konaru-sensei may already be waiting for us by now. I’ll just check on my things and go. Putting back on his sunglasses and jacket, the Aburame checked his equipments and weapons. It seems that everything is in check. Well, I’ll be going then. Maybe I’ll go to my parents’ grave first. I should pay my respects to them, especially to my father. Raito then left his house and made his way to the graves of his parents to ask for their blessings and pay his respects.

Along the way there, he saw a recognizable face. Kanzo bought flowers and was walking towards the same direction with his cousin. Raito ran as he tried to catch up with his cousin. Kanzo heard him from a couple of feet away and welcomed the company of his younger cousin. They walked together the rest of the way to the graveyard. They never said a word to each other, but the connection between them was strong enough to hint that they were both happy that the other was there. Even if it was a mere coincidence for them to go there at the same time, they knew that the other had his reasons to be there. And, it might even been their last time to pay their respects to Raito’s parents because of the mission they will be having soon.

Upon reaching the grave of Raito’s parents, the cousin immediately cleaned up the place. They then prepared the flowers the Kanzo brought and the candles the Raito brought. After everything was ready, Raito knelt down on the graves of his parents. Kanzo remained standing, but he was also praying to his uncle and aunt. The place was peaceful and pristine. Birds made beautiful songs as they flew by the area. Cicadas chirped near the graves as well. The sun still shined above them, and the sky as marvelous as ever. And, as the wind blew across the hillside, the two Aburame felt the cool breeze whistling on their ears. Nature was telling them that everything was going to be alright for them. The two accepted nature’s offer and continued to pay their respects to Raito’s parents.

Hello again, Father and Mother. It has been a long time since I was here, and I’m sorry for it. I know you understand why. I have been very busy with all my missions with my team, Silent Homicide. Also, since we have defeated the Fisherman in one of our missions, I tried to find time for you guys. Sadly, I was called for another mission again. This time, it concerns our clan. Raikuma has escaped from the prison. He stole several items that are important to the clan, and it is up to us to get those things back. I know that it will be dangerous for us, but we need to do this for the clan’s sake. Well, I am here to ask for blessings. I need them especially since this mission is very hard. I will be away for I don’t know how long again, but I will go to you once I get back from the mission. Don’t worry about me. I have my friends, Kanzo, and Sensei Konaru with me. They will be joining me in the mission. They will help me retrieve the things back. I promise you that I will get back what Raikuma stole. I will do what it takes to get them. By the way, Uncle Hitei has his own mission too. He has to save those children the Raikuma’s group kidnapped from the clan. If only you were alive, Father, maybe you could help us now. Anyway, I must be going now. I will meet up with the others at four, so I need to go. Bye then! I’ll see you when I get back!

Raito noticed that his cousin was already done praying. He stood up and bowed his head for the last time that day. They then decided that it was time for them to leave for the academy. Side by side, the two cousins never looked back as they both walked towards the academy where they shall meet up with the rest of the group for the mission briefing.

Along the road, the two met up with their sensei. He had the scroll with him and was running to the academy. Raito called him and noticed that Reika was running beside his teacher. Getting his attention, Konaru waited for the cousins to catch up with them. The four now made their way to the meeting place. All of them had this serious look in their eyes. Everyone was focused on their tasked at hand although they only knew a part of the mission. Raito still wondered what items they had to retrieve, but his worries had departed his mind a long time ago. He had faith that the group could actually survive and reclaim the things of the Aburame clan. With an Uchiha and a Hyuuga in the team, it seemed that time was the only obstacle that stood in their triumph over Raikuma and his group of thieves. His eyes twitched as the sun shined upon him. After a couple of more turns, they finally reached the academy. There, the four saw that Tenka, Kenji, and Hashiba were already there waiting for them outside the front door.

Seeing that everyone was there, Konaru told them to sit down on a nearby bench and listen to the details of the mission. When everyone was comfy on the bench, Konaru unrolled the scroll and said, “It’s a surprise that none of you were late, but that’s a good thing. All your trainings earlier were impressive. Each of you should have learned a thing or two by now. Hashiba and Tenka had a very nice spar with each other. Kanzo and Kenji, you two should have more mastery over both of your skills. Raito and Reika, both of you should use that new jutsu wisely, ok?”

The group looked happy at what Raito’s sensei said. With that, they congratulated the others. Konaru again called for their attention for the mission details. “Now, let’s go to the mission briefing. It’s quite short if I do say so myself. I think the letters should already have told you that we will not be fighting with Raikuma. Well, that is, if the spies were right. If I was that guy, I would rather guard what I stole than the children I kidnapped. But, that’s me. Anyway, what the scroll says is that the group is only hiding inside the country. We would not have trouble with the other countries then,” Konaru explained, “The hard part is the things that we need to find and retrieve from them. We have four things that we need to get from them. The first one is a scroll. That scroll contains valuable information on the proper technique on how the kikai must be put inside the Aburame child’s body. If that scroll was to be read by them, I am quite positive that they will make their own insect clan. That will be very dangerous for the Aburame clan for reasons that only Raito, Kanzo, and the other clan members knows. The second thing that we will need to find is the scroll that contains the clan jutsu of the Aburame. I think this is self-explanatory, but I’ll explain it anyway. If those jutsu were copied by Raikuma and his group, they could form new techniques that might even be used against the rest of the clans in Konohagure. I, for one, do not want that to happen. If it should, then all will be in devastation. The third item is clan’s most dangerous weapon. It should be a sword that wields an extremely powerful force inside it. This scroll says that kikai were put inside it and now has grown in number and in size. The kikai inside the sword are said to have caused serious ailments to those that the sword would be used against. This is probably the most dangerous item in the list. If we should find it, retrieve it as quickly as you can. We don’t want them to use it against as. If they do, find a way to evade the sword’s attacks.”

After the third item in the list, everyone suddenly feared what might happen to them. If the enemy had an item like that, what could they do against them? Konaru calmed the group down saying that they should not be too worried because of it. Their enemies were just bandits after all. The thieves could not have the knowledge to actually use the sword to its fullest. When the group calmed down, Konaru continued his mission briefing. “Finally, we go to the last item. It is nothing but a simple tube containing the clan’s antidote. Well, what I heard is, the tube contains a very rare substance that could heal almost any person from any poison known to us. The clan has been safe-keeping that antidote ever since I knew, and it would be chaotic if the enemy would have the information that tube holds. Well, I guess that’s that then. Are there any questions on the mission?” Raito’s sensei said.

Everybody only nodded at Konaru. Seeing that no one had any inquiries about the mission, he said, “If no one has anything to ask, then you can all wait here for me. I’ll just get my things from the inside. All of you should be ready by the time I come out from the academy. We shall be traveling for at least a day before we reach their main camp, so be prepared. I’ll be going inside then. See you guys later.”

At last! The mission will be starting soon. I can’t wait!

The group readied themselves for the travel. Kanzo and Tenka had canned foods in their bags already. Kenji and Hashiba talked about what to bring for the journey, and they agreed to bring sleeping bags for everyone. Reika brought her and her father’s sleeping bags as well. Raito did not think of anything to bring. Luckily for him, everybody else had some spare things for him to use. As soon as Konaru met up with the others, they made their way to the Konohagure gate.

The sun had a beautiful glow as the group walked towards the gates. Several shinobi crossed paths with them, and they were all wishing Konaru and his group the best of luck. Raito smiled at all of them, for he knew that the group really needed all the luck they could get. The group had a hard mission ahead of them. Having to fight Raikuma’s group might be the last thing all of them may ever do. Regardless, the group moved on knowing that their fellow shinobi of the Aburame clan needed their help.

Raito felt that they were slowing down by the moment. The gates were nearing them, but their feet seemed to be unable to move. Everything suddenly died into a stop. Goosebumps raced all over his whole body as he saw the rest of the team moving on ahead of him. Konaru noticed that his pupil had frozen in the middle of the road. He then halted the others and went to Raito. The Aburame felt a tap on his should. He turned his head and soon found out that his teacher was smiling at him. With a sigh of relief, Raito grinned back at him and found the courage to continue on to the gates.

The Genin finally reached the gates. An old man stood beside the gate selling several nice snacks. Since he did not even bring his own sleeping bag, Raito decided to buy some snacks for the long trip ahead of them. Picking some packed candies, the group soon shouted at Raito to hurry up. The sun was almost down, and they had to at least make half of the way from their village to the bandits’ camp. The Aburame paid up for the snacks he got and ran to the group to begin their journey.

Konaru checked if everyone was there. The others looked at their things to see if something was missing. Raito checked at his new senbon in his pouch. It seems that I have everthing that I need. My senbon and smoke grenade are all in my pouch. That’s good! Seeing that everything was in check, Konaru said, “Well, are all of you ready for the journey?”

The group smiled at each other and shouted, “Yes, Konaru-sensei! We are as ready as we can ever be! Let’s go!”

Konaru ran to the forest ahead of the group. Raito and the others followed from behind letting his sensei lead them across the dense forest. The sun had already set, and the moon was their only source of light. The group jumped from branch to branch as they moved through the forest. The two Aburame had their bugs patrol the area ahead of them since the whole place was dark and there might be bandits already waiting for them. The team was only a few kilometers away from the Konohagure gate, but they had to be sure that no one was there to ambush them. Sensing that there were no apparent dangers nearby, the cousins signaled their sensei to continue on leading the group across the woods. The travel was definitely exciting, but peril could just be lurking around the corner. As the mission scroll said, Raikuma’s hideout was inside the country of Konoha. If that was indeed true, then the bandits should be patrolling that area by now. If that area was near the forest, then they might be in big trouble right then and there.

The group continued to travel. The moon, illuminating the area, was being blocked by the large trees of the woods. Konaru constantly checked on his team since it was almost too dark for them to see. Raito was alongside the Hyuuga at the back. The two checked the area around them while simultaneously looking for anything that would prove to be useful for the mission. Kenji and Tenka joined up with Kanzo and Reika at the middle surveying the area around them as well. Everybody was doing what they have planned. Finally, Kanzo saw a stream where they could rest for awhile. Agreeing with his former student, Konaru signaled the group to go down to the stream to have a water break.

With a last leap, the group landed near the stream. Tenka ran to the stream and splashed his head into the cold water. Raito almost laughed but remained calm knowing that any sudden noises might be heard by the enemy. Kenji drank up the water inside his flask and filled it up again with the water from the stream. Hashiba, who was not yet thirsty, talked with Konaru about possible plans and other tactics for the mission. Reika and Raito just sat there observing their friends doing what they were doing. Seeing that everybody had their own rest already, Konaru snapped his fingers. Nodding their heads, the team got their things and soon continued their journey.

Refreshed, the group had a few more miles before they could set up camp. This time, the group had shifts on who was going to lead them to their destination. Konaru would give the map to the one whose turn it was to lead. The idea made each one of them experience some kind of leadership even if it was for only half an hour. Raito almost led the group in a wrong turn, but he noticed it and soon detoured into the right direction again. Leaping from one tree to another made it easier for them to patrol the area too. Tenka and Hashiba would occasionally jump above the whole area to look out for any of Raikuma’s subordinates. Reika would always stick by her father’s side patrolling the area in front of them. Looking at his watch, Kenji noticed that it was already nine o’clock. He told Konaru that they might need to set up camp soon, and that they needed to find an area where they can do so. Acknowledging the Uchiha’s idea, Konaru sent Hashiba and Raito to find a safe place for the group. Agreeing, the two bolted to opposite directions hoping to find some area secure enough for them to camp in.

I should find a place as soon as possible. The group is already tired. I need a safe place, but this forest is so dark that I can’t almost see anything! A place that’s covered by trees but still let’s the moon’s rays illuminate it should do trick. I trust that the moon will give me adequate light to find some place like that. Maybe Hashiba can find a place too. Well, I still need to do what is asked of me. Better find a place quick!

Moving across the forest alone while still being able to see the group, Raito tried to find a place safe enough for them to camp in. He sighted some places possible for them to set up camp in, but realized that there were bears and other wild animals nearby. The Aburame continued to look for the perfect place, but found nothing of that sort. Not giving up, Raito finally saw a small lake nearby. Walking towards it, he saw nothing that could be dangerous for the group. He moved slowly around the area to make sure that it was indeed as safe as it seemed to be. Sensing no immediate danger, Raito decided that this place was perfect for the group to camp in. He then made his way back to the group to tell his sensei that he had found a possible area where they can camp in.

As he moved towards the group, Raito saw that his white-eyed friend was already talking with Konaru. He reached the group and listened to Hashiba talk. The Hyuuga pointed to the right of the team while he told Konaru that there was a place that was safe enough for them to camp in. Raito continued to listen to what his friend was explaining. He kept his idea to himself until Hashiba was finished talking. Konaru then turned his attention to his pupil and asked him what the matter was. Raito soon told him that he had also found a place that was safe enough for the group. Pointing to the left side, the Aburame described the area having a small lake with no noticeable danger. Konaru had now the trouble of choosing between what Hashiba and Raito found. Looking at the two, he told them that the group will choose where they would like to set up camp in. Hashiba and Raito agreed and told the others what Konaru said. Talking with each other, half of the group followed Raito while half followed Hashiba.

Leading them to the lake, Raito pointed out where they could set up camp. Then, he explained that this was the perfect place simply because they had a good water source nearby. Directing the group to the moon, he took note that the moon was not blocked so much that they had no more light. The group talked to each other until they decided that they wanted to see the place that Hashiba found. Agreeing, Hashiba and Raito switched groups. The Aburame then explained to the new group how safe and how convenient the place was for them. After awhile, the whole team met up and talked about where they should set up camp in.

While the group was still discussing about what area they would choose. Hashiba asked if he could see the place that Raito found. Raito willingly showed him the way and asked if he could also look at the place that Hashiba found. The Hyuuga nodded and showed him how to reach the place that he discovered. The two then explored the area that the other found. Raito saw that Hashiba found a cave beneath a small waterfall. It was indeed safe, and Raito was proud that his friend found an area like that. Still, he felt that the place that he found was safer than what his white-eyed friend revealed to them. They both met up again and praised the other a job well done.

After about fifteen minutes, the team decided to take a vote as to their situation. Reika and Kanzo voted for the place discovered by Raito while Kenji and Tenka voted for Hashiba’s. It was a draw. Everything now depended on Konaru, who had yet to pick the place there the whole group was going to camp in. Laughing softly, the Jounin Yukina stood there doing thinking hard on his answer. Finally, he sat down and said, “Before I pick a place, I think we need to appreciate what these two had done for us. Hashiba and Raito did find safe places, but I think I have to choose Raito’s. Hashiba discovered a place completely hidden behind a waterfall, but it has only one way as an entrance and exit. That could be a problem if the enemies see us. Raito’s also has its advantages and disadvantages. Being open like that can actually make us more vulnerable to attacks, but at least we can escape easier from them than if we had to escape using just one exit. That’s my reason. Does anyone have questions?”

I never thought of it that way. I think Konaru is right. If we are in an open area, we could be easily seen but easily escape. If we were to choose Hashiba’s, it would be harder for us to escape since the enemies would trap us inside the cave knowing that it has only one opening for an entrance and exit. Well, Hashiba still did a great job trying to find a nice and safe place for us. I guess it was just luck for me.

Hashiba shook the hands of his friend. Raito grinned back at his friend. They knew they both did an excellent job at trying to find a safe place. Though Raito’s place was chosen, the Hyuuga was happy too. They were friends, and friends must encourage their comrades. Raito then led the others to the place again and directed them to the safest area in it. The group congratulated the two for a job well done. It might not have been that important, but being able to rest was just as significant as the actual mission.

The group then settled in the area while Raito and his white-eyed friend walked about it patrolling for anything that might endanger the others. The moon above danced with stars as the whole group was preparing their sleeping bag. Hashiba used his Byakugan to patrol the area around them. Raito ordered his kikai to come out and watch out for any sudden movements around the place as well. Everything seemed to be fine, so the two decided to ready their sleeping bags too. Konaru and Reika, being the first ones to have already set up their sleeping bags and tent, made a schedule for the security watch. It was necessary since no one knows when or where their enemies could attack from. The group took their assignments without any complaints and headed back to their respective sleeping areas. The first ones to patrol were Tenka and Kanzo. As energetic as he could ever be, Tenka hurriedly climbed up a tree’s branch and leaned his back against its trunk. Kanzo stayed at the ground and commanded his kikai to help him with his surveillance duties. Everybody else either slept or ate a snack while the two surveyed the area.

Raito did not sleep. Although he lay upon his sleeping bag, a nightmare would disturb his slumber. So, he just chose to stare at the sky while lying down on his sleeping bag. Seeing that most of the others were already asleep, he dared not to make even the slightest noise. He turned his head to the two that had patrol duty and noticed that Tenka and Kanzo were talking with each other. A sudden thought then came into his mind; the two had the closest connection with his father, Aburame Tenshi. As the two chatted, Raito turned to the stars again. He always felt that his parents and grandparents were always looking after him from up above. Trying to trace a picture using the stars, Raito imagined his mother and father hugging him at that moment. Feeling secure, the young Aburame gradually fell asleep while he was still smiling at his own imaginations.

As Raito slept, Kanzo and Tenka patrolled the area the best they could. But, as human beings, they too had their physical limits. The two were already tired, and they needed their sleep. When their shift ended, they woke up the next two who were assigned. Shrugging Kenji and Reika, Kanzo told them that it was their turn to guard the area. Reika quickly got to her post, but her partner still wanted to sleep. Tenka slapped the Uchiha’s head as hard as he could. Kenji almost shouted as he felt the pain inflicted on him. Tenka apologized and explained why he had to do such an action. Figuring that he was also stubborn, Kenji accepted Tenka’s apology and made his way to his own post. The whole time, Konaru observed the Genin laughing to himself as not to startle the others.

Reika guarded the north side while Kenji guarded the south. The two seldom talked with each other. Reika was shy, and Kenji did not know how to talk with girls. Both seemed to be friendly to Raito, but the Aburame always started the conversation. Reika tapped the Uchiha’s shoulder to tell him that they needed to move to the opposite sides. Kenji nodded at the Yukina kunoichi and moved to the south. No words came out from their mouths though. Silence prevailed over the area, but at least they communicated. To Raito, the two were his friends that no one can ever replace. For him, Reika and Kenji were as trustworthy as the other Genin could be.

Following the shift of Reika and the Uchiha, the next two to watch over the team were Hashiba and Raito. Hashiba already prepared for his shift, but the Aburame was still fast asleep when it was his turn. Reika told Kenji not to wake up Raito. Kenji whispered to the kunoichi that it was his turn. Reika knew that, but also knew that Raito was up all night the day before because he was recruiting them for this mission. Explaining that to Kenji, Reika woke her father up and asked if he could replace Raito just this once. Being the kind man that he was, Konaru said, “Sorry, Reika, I can’t let that happen. There’s supposed to be a sense of equality in this team. If I’d replace him, then the others might be jealous. No one would want that now.”

Reika understood the situation and let Kenji and Hashiba wake up the snoring Raito. Pinching the left cheek of the Aburame, Kenji tried and tried to wake him up. Finally, with a twist on the cheek, Raito woke up with a jolt on his step and tears in his eyes. Hashiba covered his face to prevent Raito from noticing that he was already laughing. When Raito was ready, he and Hashiba went to their respective posts and began patrolling the area. His left cheek still hurt with that pinch from Kenji, but at least he woke up from it.

Raito and Hashiba had the last shift for that night and had to survey the area until the sun rose. When it came up, Hashiba went to where Raito was and told him that he will be the one cooking the food for the team. With his stomach already telling him to eat, the Aburame agreed and woke up his teacher to help him patrol until Hashiba was done cooking their breakfast. Konaru woke up with a loud sneeze which inadvertently woke up his daughter. Knowing that she was also a good cook, Raito asked if she could help their white-eyed friend cook up some delicious food for the others. Reika replied with a nod and immediately hurried to Hashiba’s side. Konaru and Raito then went to their posts and waited for the food to be cooked by the Hashiba and Reika.

Smelling the aroma of the fish from his post, Raito could not help but stare at the ingredients Hashiba was putting in a small pot he brought. Reika was the one cutting the fish up while the Hyuuga tested the food. The Aburame drooled as Hashiba’s hand got a piece of beef and ate it up in an instant. Konaru laughed at the ridiculous face of his pupil as he was also looking at the two cooking up a delicious meal. After an hour more, the food was done and ready to be served. Raito hastily ran down to the others to wake them up. Konaru sat down on his seat and waited for the others to come. Soon, Tenka, Kenji, and Kanzo woke up and formed a circle with the others around the food. “Itadakimasu,” everybody said softly.

Tenka proposed a contest with Raito. Whoever ate the most fishes would have the honor of knocking out or killing more bandits. The others found it weird, but weird was Tenka’s middle name. The Aburame agreed and asked Kanzo to be the referee. The contest began, and the two immediately swallowed a fish whole. Tenka was leading as they were almost out of fishes. When all was said and done, everybody found out that it ended with a tie. Not accepting the decision, Tenka stood up and said, “Well, let’s just find out who will knock out the most number of opponents.”

After the delicious breakfast, the Genin helped each other clean up the mess they did. As they finished cleaning up the place, they packed their things and continued on their journey. They were halfway to their destination, and they felt revitalized because of the good food and good night’s rest. Raito looked back at their rest area as they left it like nothing happened. Though this was so, the memories of that place will never be forgotten by him and his friends.

Konaru led the group into the forest again. All of them were quite lively and made incredible progress in the travel. Soon enough, Konaru’ eyes saw a small temple-like edifice in the middle of the woods. Signaling the group to stop, Konaru whispered to Kanzo to send out some kikai near the small building with the Chinese symbol for “hate” encrypted on it. When the kikai crawled back to Kanzo, the Aburame told Konaru that there were several people guarding the area tightly. The place that they were gazing upon was Raikuma’s hideout. Raito tried to find out if he could see anything that could give them a sign where to find the items, but nothing cued him on the things’ location. Thinking of the right strategy, Konaru gathered the Genin and explained what they were going to do. The shinobi nodded and went on their ways around the small building. Konaru stayed there until he saw the cue from Kanzo.

Using his forehead protector to blind one of the bandits, Kanzo whistled loudly to signal the attack. Kanzo and Hashiba dashed out from their hiding place as several thugs ran to their companion. Startled, the opponents had no time to react to the attacks of the Aburame and the Hyuuga. More men came and surrounded Kanzo and Hashiba, but little did they know that Konaru and Tenka were already coming to aid their friends. Trapping the men yet again, the four knocked out all of them without even using any of their jutsu. Raito and Kenji noticed that one of the thieves suddenly stood up and tried to escape, but Reika was on him. With her ninja wire, the kunoichi tied up a kunai and tripped the fleeing thug. He was still awake, and it was Raito’s turn to get some information from him. Raito pounced on the half-conscious man and slowly called out his kikai. The kikai crawled to the man creeping him out. Now wide awake, Raito began asking for information from him. “Where are the things that you stole from the Aburame clan?” the Aburame shouted, “Tell me now, or I will make sure that you won’t see the light of the sun again!”

The kikai now made their way to the nostrils of the spooked man. Sweating like a pig, the man trembled for his life. When the insects reached his thighs, the man apprehensively said to Raito, “Ok, I’ll tell you everything that you need to know! Please, just get your insects off me!”

Raito had no intentions of killing the man, but he had to do this. The man needed to be persuaded to get some information about the location of the stolen items out of him. Finally agreeing to the thief, the Aburame called back his kikai. Raito gripped the man’s shirt at the collar while still allowing the man to breathe freely. “Now, tell me what I want. If you do, I might actually let you live! First things first! Where is the scroll about the kikai? And, what is that small temple over there?” asked Raito as he pointed at the small edifice at their left.

The man was still afraid. Raito tried to calm the bandit down, but all his efforts seemed to be useless. Fearing the Aburame interrogating him, the bandit slowly urinated to relax himself from the tension applied by Raito. The man finally spoke up and said, “The scroll that you are looking for is found in there. The scroll about the Aburame techniques is in there too. But the sword that Raikuma stole and the antidote are stored in a different area. I don’t think you’d get to the scrolls though. There are more of us waiting for you inside, and I just alerted them by using this!”

The man held up an explosive note. Raito saw it and quickly ran for cover. Konaru and the others never saw the explosive note, and they had to be alerted by the young Genin. Sending one of his kikai to his cousin, Kanzo felt something whispering at him. His eyes grew larger and ran to escape the explosion as he shouted, “Guys! Run for cover! That man just touched an explosive note!”

Konaru heard Kanzo and quickly got Reika and hid behind a tree. Tenka panicked as he leaped up onto a branch trying to escape the blast of the note. Kenji and Hashiba were already running for cover as well. Just as Hashiba found a safe place, the note detonated, thus shattering everything within a two meter radius. Hashiba got thrown into the air, but Kenji caught his friend before he got his by a broken branch. Smoke covered the area, and everyone there was coughing because of it. After the wind cleared out the smoke, Konaru and the Genin came out from their hiding place looking at each other to see if anyone was badly injured. Everyone only got minor bruises and cuts thanks to the early warning by the two Aburame. As lucky as the group was, the men inside the building now knew that they had intruders lurking about. This mission just keeps on getting harder and harder!

Seeing that they had to go inside the temple-like structure in front of them, Kenji and Hashiba entered the building first. Using his Byakugan, Hashiba scanned the area for any traps. There were no traps near the door, and the others soon followed their friends inside the dark entrance. The group slowly moved inside the tunnel-like hallway until they found themselves staring at a big door. With his Byakugan, the Hyuuga tried to examine the room behind the large door. Wondering why his Doujutsu did not work, Hashiba noticed that the door was being sealed by chakra-filled notes from the other side. Telling this to Konaru, the group again devised another plan to open the door. After a couple of minutes, Kanzo got an idea. He told his cousin of his plan and quickly went to the left-hand side of the door. Raito followed his cousin and moved to the right side of the door. They then directed their kikai to crawl under the large door and eat away the chakra-filled notes on the other side. The insects followed their masters and were soon at the opposite side of the door. Hashiba continued to use his Byakugan until he saw the room behind the door. With a final bite from the kikai, the door suddenly opened up on its own revealing several of Raikuma’s men already running to the team. Raito and the others prepared for another fight. This time, they had to make sure that they knock out every single one of their opponents to prevent another mistake.

Hashiba and Tenka bolted to the enemies. Using his Jyuuken, Hashiba instantly defeated four bandits. Tenka used his big fan to throw his opponents into the air then whacked them using the same weapon. The two soon eliminated the thieves that surrounded them, but more of the men came to the aid of their fellow thieves. With a series of hand seals, Tenka used his Suna Shuriken no Jutsu to wound the enemies running towards them. Kanzo and Kenji then rushed to help their friends. With his own Doujutsu, Kenji just toyed with the ones that tried to attack him. Kanzo swiftly used his wrist blade to get rid of his enemies. While they fought against Raikuma’s group, Konaru, Raito, and Reika went ahead of them to find the scrolls. Before they could go far enough, another group of bandits blocked their path yet again. Fighting seemed to be the only option now. Raito bended his knees as he moved his right foot behind his left for his offensive stance. Konaru snapped his fingers, and Raito suddenly just reappeared in the middle of the enemies.

Using his speed, Raito clinched his fist and punched several of the thieves on their abdomens. Then, the Aburame clubbed them on the head using his Jo Staff. The men went out cold as Raito continued to decimate the others. Finding himself outnumbered did not concern him, for Raito knew that he could take on every single one of the thieves. After elbowing the last of the men, Raito noticed that all the others were also finished cleaning up the rest of the bandits. Afterwards, the group continued to make their way to find the scrolls.

Konaru led the group room to room trying to find any signs of the scrolls. After awhile, the group was almost exhausted as they found a cave inside the large building. Though it seemed to be empty, the cave had several light bulbs attached on its walls. Instincts kicked in as the group hurriedly found a place where they could hide while still being able to observe for any movements inside the place. Soon enough, they saw several men going out of the entrance with one of them holding a scroll. Though the group did not know whether it was the scroll that they were trying to find, Konaru picked up a small stone and threw it near the bandits that were walking right in front of Raito and the rest of the Genin. Hearing the stone fall on the ground, the men stopped moving and started finding the location where the stone came from. When they turned their backs on Konaru and his team, Reika and her father used their forearms to knock the thieves out cold. They quickly got the scroll and saw that it was a letter for Raikuma. It said that the scrolls have been moved inside the cave since there were reports of several attacks from some unknown group. Upon reading the scroll, Kanzo and the others knew that they had to act as fast as possible now. They did not want Raikuma to know that several Aburame Genin and other Konohagure shinobi were the ones that got the scrolls from his group. If he did, then nothing would stop him from tracking the team down. Konaru rolled the scroll up and signaled the team to move on.

The team moved out from their hiding place and ran towards the entrance of the large cave. As soon as the coast was clear, Raito and Kenji entered it as silently as they could. The Aburame waved his hand to the others indicating that they were good to go. With their bodies crouched, the rest of the team followed Raito and the Uchiha into the cave. Hashiba used his Byakugan again to locate the scrolls if they were indeed in the area. The Hyuuga turned his head to the right, then to the left, and to the right again. As he looked a few meters to his right, Hashiba pointed to a room where a scroll was being kept inside a glass container. Raito nodded his head and made his way to the door on his right. The others waited for his signal again. The moment that Raito reached for the door, a sound too familiar to the Aburame was coming closer and closer to him. He evaded it, and saw that it was a kunai thrown by a man a couple of feet from him. The rest of the team saw this and quickly ran to help their friend. Raito held out his hand motioning that he could take this one alone. The man ran to Raito as the Aburame reached for something inside his pouch. As soon as the man was in front of the Genin, Raito threw a smoke grenade on the bandit’s face and kicked him on his thigh. The man fell to the ground and got covered in black smoke. The Aburame saw that the man carried a key. He quickly got it and opened the door in front of them. Konaru and the others soon moved to the door as Raito left it opened for them to enter.

Konaru and Raito soon found out that the there was a huge prison inside the cave. A stench filled the whole area as the group walked slowly to explore the area. Kanzo led half of the group to the left while Konaru led Raito and Tenka to the right. It seemed that the prison had not been recently used, but there were fresh blood smeared in one of the cells. Raito tried to open it, but the cell was locked. Hashiba discovered a room that did not seem to be a prison place. He called out for the rest of the team as Kanzo used his kikai to find out if there were traps set in the other side of the door.

The insects buzzed around their master while some of them were still investigating the door. When the kikai returned to Kanzo, they whispered to him what they saw. Surprised at the information, the Aburame told the rest of the group what his insects saw. “One of the scrolls is on the other side! But, several bandits are in the same room already preparing there attack. The kikai do not actually know what they are actually doing right now, but the men are guarding the scroll the best they can. It’s a large room, so we can have the chance to just barge in and eliminate all of them,” Kanzo explained.

Konaru and Hashiba discussed what they should do. There were no more ways inside the room except that door, but the men inside outnumbered them. If they just charged head on, they might stand a chance. But, charging like that could injure some of them badly. Raito tried to think of a plan alone, but not one idea came into his mind. Rushing into the room seemed to be the best strategy at the moment, but Kanzo did say that the men were already preparing to attack them. Suddenly, Tenka said, “I know! What if we use many bunshin as diversions? That way, their attack would be unsuccessful. We can charge in afterwards.”

Konaru stared at the young Gorosho. Patting him on the head, the Jounin devised a plan that used Tenka’s ingenious idea. The group listened to Konaru as he explained what they should do after the bunshin have been attacked. To Raito, it seemed that his friend finally thought of an idea that they could actually use. While Konaru was explaining, Kanzo and Tenka were already preparing there insect and sand clones for the plan. After a few more seconds, everyone prepared themselves for the possible difficult fight inside the room. With a powerful kick, Kenji opened the door revealing something that surprised even Konaru.

Shuriken, senbon, and kunai flew out from the opened door. Luckily for the team, all they hit was the bunshin Tenka and Kanzo made. Smoke puffed out of the destroyed clones. When the place cleared, the shinobi leaped into the room to fight the bandits inside. With his clan’s famous open-palm technique, Hashiba swiftly knock six of the enemies out. Not to be left behind by his friend, Kenji used his wrist blade against his enemies quickly wounding five of his own opponents. Raito and Kanzo worked hand in hand to defeat nine thieves by using own weapons. Konaru did not need to use anything but his fist to defeat his opponents. Reika helped Tenka finish off three more bandits that tried to escape from their team.

Defeating twenty-something men seemed to be too easy for the team. After all was said and done, Raito got the scroll from the glass container and put it inside his bag. The ground vibrated when the Aburame snatched the scroll from its container. A wall opened up before their eyes. Hashiba, still in his defensive stance, used his Doujutsu to explore the new way in front of the group. Sensing no danger, the Hyuuga told the group not to worry. With a sigh of relief, Tenka peeked inside the opening only to see candles hanged on the sides of the walls. Konaru said, “Well, I guess this should be the way to the other scroll. We better move on now. We don’t know when Raikuma will get here. I’m quite sure he has been informed of the situation in this place by now. Let’s get going, guys! It’s now or never!”

Sensei is right! We need to move on now!

The team crept slowly into the dark, damp tunnel. Candles nailed on the walls lighted the place, but it was not enough for Konaru and the Genin. Drops of water would occasionally make sounds as they splashed on the ground. Eerie noises could be heard deep inside the almost endless passageway that they were traveling. The shinobi constantly stopped as they examined the area around them. Kanzo and Konaru led the group since they were more experienced than the others. Raito stayed in the back with his friend Hashiba because they thought that the back could use the Hyuuga’s Byakugan and the Aburame’s kikai. The others stayed in the middle of the group trying to observe any sudden movements inside the tunnel.

Expecting something dangerous, Raito always held his Jo Staff so tightly that his right hand was almost sore because of it. His pupils always moved from left to right exploring the walls as if something could just jump out on them at any time. His left hand held two senbon just in case they would be attacked from a distance. Kikai crawled all over his arms ready to be called upon anytime the Genin needed them. With each step, he would notice some shadows moving on the walls. His heart pounded faster and faster until he got bumped on the face by Tenka’s back.

The group stopped at their tracks. Lamps were now lighting the place. Wondering why this was so, Konaru felt something was wrong. The Yukina Jounin pointed at a rock saying that the group should wait there for further instructions. The team followed his orders and hid behind the rock as quietly as they could. Turning his head back to the road, Konaru got his kunai and lowered his body as he made his way deeper into the tunnel. After a couple of minuntes, Raito’s sensei came back out to the group gasping for air. He leaned on the rock while he sat down on the ground and said, “I think I found the exit of the tunnel, but you might want to look at it for yourselves. Just go straight, and you should find out what I am trying to say.”

Kanzo nodded his head and led the group into the tunnel. Raito had questions as to why his teacher seemed to be tired just by walking in the tunnel. Suddenly, they found themselves looking at a body of water inside the cave. Being a good swimmer, Reika opted that she should lead the group inside the lake. The group did not argue anymore and just followed the kunoichi into the water. With a loud splash from each of them, the Genin dived into the water after the Yukina.

Bubbles floated on the small lake as the group swam across it. Not knowing what may be lurking in it, the group just followed the lead of their friend, Reika. Soon, they saw a light shining at the other side of the lake. The Genin swam faster trying to reach it until they saw an animal that made them swim back the other way. A crocodilian blocked their path to the exit, and it was ready to attack them at anytime. Reika feared for her and her friends’ lives. With a wave of her hand, the group made their way back to Konaru as quickly as they can.

The waves made by the group irritated the crocodile. Angry, it swam to the team trying to attack Kenji since he was lagging behind. The Uchiha saw the crocodilian approaching him. He tried to swim faster, but he was simply just a poor swimmer. The group soon reached the hole where they came from, but the animal was nearing them at a much faster rate. Raito looked at the others behind him and saw that they were panicking already. Throwing something at the crocodile would not do anything since the water would only slow it down. Raito needed to do something quick, so he grabbed the hand of Tenka and tried to gesture that he too should grab the others. Tenka thought the he understood his friend and grabbed the Aburame’s legs. Feeling stupid, Raito grabbed Tenka’s arms again and flung the Gorosho to the exit. Tenka was puzzled at what his friend just did, but he understood Raito when he finally saw the crocodile swimming to their other teammates Reika did not know what was happening behind her until Tenka grabbed her pants from behind. She turned her head to see what the trouble was and saw that her friends were already being attacked by the animal. Kanzo, wondering why Tenka pulled the kunoichi’s pants, looked at his friends as well. Both of them swam back to the surface to get a breath of fresh air. Kanzo then dived back in the water to help their friends. Tenka jumped to the surface to tell Konaru what had just happened. “I told you so,” the Jounin said.

Konaru and the Genin ran to the lake to help the others. Konaru dived into the water together with Tenka swimming to the group that was still underwater. Raito and Hashiba fended off the crocodile with their weapons, but what they did only annoyed the animal more. Reika saw that her father was coming to their rescue and signaled to him that she had no more air. With an ok sign, Konaru acknowledge his daughter and swam across her to the others. Kenji was almost out of air as well, but he could not do anything about it. While he covered his mouth with his left hand, he felt something grabbing his right hand tightly. Trying to look at who or what it was, he saw Tenka was the one trying to save him. As he closed his eyes, a big bubble came gushing out from his mouth signaling to the Gorosho that the Uchiha had suddenly fainted. Tenka feared that his friend might be dead at that time and swam to the shore as quickly as he could. Meanwhile, Raito and Hashiba too were almost out of oxygen. The crocodile, angered by the two, charged Raito straight on. Luckily, the Aburame saw this and blocked the attack with his staff. Hashiba then hastily pulled Raito closer to him and tapped him on the back to tell him that Konaru was coming to lend them a hand. The Hyuuga then pulled his friend up to shore, and Tenka helped Raito up. With a deep breath, Hashiba dived back into the water to assist Kanzo swim back to the surface as well.

The group now had to go back into the water to help Konaru. Tenka tended to Kenji while the others helped the Hyuuga and the Jounin fight against the crocodile. Raito and Reika went in first. They rushed to the two shinobi that were already doing handseals in the water. Hashiba called forth several ice projectiles that wounded the animal. At the same time, Konaru made several water clones that attacked the crocodilian at all sides. The confused animal whipped the clones using its tail. The clones turned back into water that revealed several more Tsubame Fubuki made by the Yukina kunoichi. Seeing that they had Raito and Reika to help them fight against the crocodile now, Konaru used hand movements to tell the Hyuuga that he should tell the others to come back in the water. Perplexed, Hashiba had no time to question the judgment of their superior. He just followed the command and swam to the others resting on dry ground. Now that their white-eyed friend returned to shore, the three in the water had to hold off the animal until the others arrived. Raito created several Mushi Bunshin to help them fend off the creature. The father and daughter combined to use their ice swallows like what the Hyuuga dead. The crocodile was now more baffled than ever because it thought that the clones were real. Soon enough, the others came back into the water with Kenji, who was now conscious. Upon seeing that everyone was already there, Konaru did a series of handseals that created a sphere made of water that imprisoned the crocodile. The team saw this and quickly swam to the other hole. The crocodile was strong, but his strength could not break the sphere that entrapped it. After all the Genin escaped, Konaru created a clone and swam to shore. The creature swam to the bunshin and gnawed its neck only to find out that it had already turned back into water. With that, the group survived with fewer injuries than expected.

Soaked in water, the group had no time to dry themselves up. They continued to move on ignoring the cold air inside the tunnel. Konaru shook his head to dry it up while he led the team deeper into the cave. The others just followed him and still continued to examine the surroundings. No one wanted a sneak attack from the enemy, and they were nearly out of stamina because of the fight they had with that crocodile. Reika took care of Kenji at the middle of the group as they walked passed several flickering lamps. The Aburame cousins stayed at the front with their Jounin leader so that they can alert the others if anything comes in their way. Tenka and Hashiba had shifts on who would stay on the back of the group as they were the one tasked to report any unusual movements from there. Everything seemed fine as they made their way inside the cave.

Finally, the group saw the tunnel widened with each step they took. The light became brighter and brighter until they saw a warehouse inside the cave. The Hyuuga examined the place again with his Byakugan. He stared at the door of the warehouse for so long that Raito had to do something to snap him out of it. Coming back to his senses, Hashiba told the group that the scroll was indeed inside the warehouse, but it was as big as a mansion. The scroll was not hard to find since it was in the middle of the whole place contained in something similar to the first one. He explained that there were several chakra notes that needed to be destroyed since these controlled the container of the scroll, but the notes had been spread inside the numerous rooms inside the place. It was obvious that the group had to separate to destroy the chakra notes quickly. That would also mean that they would be more vulnerable, but they had no choice. Konaru then had to decide who was in what team. Three teams had to be made, and that was all up to him.

The Jounin thought long about who should be in a team together. They had an Uchiha and a Hyuuga. Those two can help all of them by being in different teams since they had their Doujutsu. Obviously, the two Aburames, that were basically equal in their skills, will be in different teams as well. All that was left was Tenka and Reika. Though he wanted to stay close to his daughter, Konaru knew what he had to do. “Ok, here are the teams,” he said as the Genin all listened attentively, “Kanzo will be teaming up with Hashiba. Raito, you will go with Kenji and Reika. Tenka will come with me. I trust that Kanzo and Hashiba will be safe even if they are only two in the group. Raito, please take care of Reika for me. Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s go!”

With a nod, the groups went inside with their respective partners. The warehouse had three hallways. Each one led to a color-coded door. Konaru took the middle hallway which led to a dark blue door. Kanzo’s group and Raito’s group chose the hallways that led to the bright red door and moss green door respectively. Not one of them had any idea what lied behind each door, but they had to take chances now. They wished each other the best of luck and went their separate ways to the three doors.

The green door had this certain burnt-plastic odor when the Uchiha opened it for his team. Reika nervously entered the room and noticed several explosives attached to the pillars along its walls. Raito carelessly entered and almost tripped a wire connected to one of them. Luckily for them, Kenji saw the wire and pulled back his friend. The Aburame thanked him and carefully sent kikai to detect more wires that were in the vicinity of the room. After awhile, the kikai almost filled every single tripwire so that the team could see the traps better. Kenji was first to step inside the room. The two followed as all three of them cautiously entered to room a step at a time. Had it not been for the insects, they would have been dead by now.

When they finally got inside, they spotted a number of chakra notes on the walls of the room. Kenji tried to use his Sharingan to detect which one was indeed a true chakra note, but it seemed that every single one of them contained some amount of chakra. They now had the trouble of destroying each one of the notes. With the difficulty of trying not to trip the wires connected to the explosives, the team came up with the idea of spreading out in order for them to destroy all the notes as quickly as possible. Kenji took the farthest end of the room since he had his Doujutsu to detect any anomaly. Reika chose the right side of the room because it had fewer tripwires than the other sides. That left Raito no choice but the left side. He did not care though. The Aburame knew what had to be done, and that was not the time to argue who took what path. With a deep breath, the group spread out as they tried not to instigate any form of explosion in the room. If they did, then all of them would be dead in seconds.

Raito cautiously went to the chakra notes on his left side. Contorting his body in ways he never imagined, the Aburame moved at a very slow pace. He had to think before he even could step because of the danger of tripping any wires. Raito would constantly check his teammates if they already made their way to their sides. Kenji moved faster than him, but his body was much thinner than Raito providing him with greater flexibility. Reika, on the other hand, paced equally with the Aburame. What a sigh, Raito figured that, though it was boring, he had to do it very carefully. One wrong move could send them flying through the air. The chakra notes looked like they insultingly stared at him. Within a few meters from the notes, Raito stretched out his arms reaching for the notes. To his disappointment, his fingers did not even touch the chakra notes’ edges. Frustrated, Raito clinched his fist and decided to take another step towards them. Now just inches away from them, he again tried if he could at least touch them with his fingers. When his palm got hold of the chakra notes, Raito grabbed all of them and tore them to pieces. He then turned to his friends seeing that they also were destroying the chakra notes on their sides. After checking if there were anymore chakra notes on the walls, the group saw that they had already destroyed all of the notes and made their way to the others.

They reached the middle of the warehouse and saw that the others were already there. The group decided that the Aburame cousins will have the honors to open the glass container and get the scroll. Both of them smiled at each other as they opened it to get their scroll. Suddenly, something unexpected happened. An alarm sounded, and now they were surrounded by several bandits again. The group was startled, but they still prepared for a fight. The Genin were already in their defensive stance ready for any attack from any of them enemies. But something caught their attention yet again. “Hello there, Konaru-boy. Long time, no see! Where have you been all this time? Oh wait, are those the sons of Toushi and Hitei? I never expected them to come all this way just to get back what I stole from them now!” a voice from a distance said, “I will have a very fun time watching you guys suffer!”

With a sound coming from above, the group looked up to see what was causing the noise. When they raised their heads, they saw several thieves’ fists knocking them unconscious. The last thing that the shinobi heard was a voice laughing at them. “Bring these shinobi to our hideout. I want to play games with them before we kill them,” the voice said just before Raito went unconscious.

Where am I? What is this place? What just happened? Where are my friends? Konaru-sensei! Hashiba! Kenji! Reika! Tenka! Where are you guys?

TO BE CONTINUED

Sweet mother of God 40 effing pages!! For a simple jutsu like that and LP...

Ugg... this'll take awhile, I tag this for judging, cause I've started... going to take awhile to get through... and if any other judge touches this I'll delete whatever rewards they post... I vow to have this done by tomorrow!! (Or Sunday)

Quick question

Do you have the scroll purchased for the hidden needles or not when this was made? It'll help me decide the rewards.

I did not have the scroll. I just use the scroll as a part of the RP, but actually did not buy anything. Is that ok?

Yes it is... now for ye rewards...

Rewards:

Your jutsu that you requested, which name eludes me at the moment...

Hidden Needle no jutsu :banhead:

And LP

387.... if anyone else has a problem with this, they can go complain to me via pm

Nice quest, was a good read...

Now I go and not judge anything for a week or two.