Wheels calmly, yet firmly rolled over the terrain toward Konoha. The beast of burden hauling the large family filled wagon wasn't quite the normal variety. Rather than hooves, there were paws crunching along the ground, pulling the wagon with ease. Anyone seeing the sight of the large black furred animal might shy away, or possibly leave them scratching their heads.

A wolf the size of a horse pulling a wagon and without any obviously given directions was very very uncommon. To those same curious and nervous viewers, they would definitely leap back in surprise if they were to hear the green eyed wolf stop at the gates of Konoha and explain briefly that they were seeing the end of a mission to safely deliver the new civilian residence she was charged with handling.

"Ah, Kinu." The guard smiled kindly. "It's been a while."

"Just over a month." The wolf nodded. She looked over her shoulder at the family. "I'll drop you off to meet the Hokage for the final paperwork."

The wolf effortlessly drew the wagon forward and down the larger of streets that could accommodate the large wagon.

***

"Isn't Kinu due to return somewhere this week?" Kakashi asked the Ookami man curiously.

Akio smiled. "I do believe so. It's been quite a long time now. I wonder how she's been fairing."

Kakashi smiled nervously. "I bet Hisayo's been enjoying the time she's been away."

Akio sighed. "Yes, such a jealous child." That wasn't to say that she was less stressed out with Kinu having been gone. She had to contend with Taryn still. "Which reminds me," he continued, "I should be getting home to get everything organized. There's still some groceries to be done as well."

Kakashi smiled behind his mask. It was funny to see Akio act like this over a girl. "Don't let me keep you then," he said, "I'm sure you'll want to use your time to organize something special for her return."

Akio glared at him. "And I'm sure you won't mind if I send Hisayo over to you to vent her jealousy."

Kakashi gulped. "Have you no pity at all?"

"For you? Not a chance."

...

Hisayo rubbed her nose after having sneezed. She found it a bit odd that she would suddenly find herself sneezing in the middle of summer. 'Summer cold?' How rare. Perhaps she should stop off at the remedy shop for some special tea blends just in case.

***

Taryn came to a halt when she sensed a strange albeit familiar chakra. She was on her own today. Her students had ventured off to enjoy their last few days in Konoha. They would be returning home soon.

She tilted her head in order to place the signature. It wasn't one she had encountered before, but it still reminded her of someone. She activated her Byakugan and scanned the area until her eyes landed on a form not far from the gate. 'Another one?' She frowned in thought. She had believed it was only Akio and Hisayo that carried this particular chakra signature, though Hisayo's was different from Akio's, but there was no mistaking it. This was the same wolf like chakra that both Nakamura emitted.

Curiously, and also wary, she made her way towards the gate.

...

Kinu let out a relaxed sigh now that she was back in familiar territory. The Hokage had met the family and she had just finished dropping the wagon off at the final point in the village where the rest was up to the family themselves. She declines help with taking off the harness.

"It's easier taking it off myself than putting it on." She kindly commented before the black wolf shifted, downsizing and smoothly changing into a human being. Kinu gracefully rose up from her knees and casually adjusted her wardrobe, placing the most care with her sash. At her feet was the harness that had fallen from her changing form. "Welcome to Konoha and I hope your new home will be just as pleasant if not more so than your previous." She spoke to the impressed family.

The reaction was the same as the first time she had shifted in front of the family.

...

Taryn watched the new wolfgirl carefully. She seemed to know her way well around Konoha and no one had tried to stop her, so she assumed the girl was local. And obviously somehow related to Akio and Hisayo.

Taryn frowned. She wondered if this would cause problems. She had only just spend an hour or so with Hisayo without it resolving to an argument. Would this girl be as territorial as the white haired woman?

She decided to follow the girl for a while to see where she was going. Perhaps she would learn something along the way about the chakra signature as well. It wouldn't let her go that she had come across it before, before coming to Konoha. And it bothered her that she couldn't remember.

'First things first,' she thought and she slowly started shadowing the girl.

...

Kinu knew something was 'off' as she made her way home. The hair at the back of her neck was slightly raised and with the wind at her back, she was catching a closely following scent. At first she thought that perhaps they just happened to be going in the same direction, but she had been going through the markets at that point. With the shops now behind her and the scent still lightly present in the air, she knew she was being at the very least 'watched'. Question now was, to remain seemingly oblivious and lead a possible threat home? Or confront the possible threat now? 

"Kinu?" She had no way to deal with her stalker right now. Someone of bigger importance had caught up to her. A smile came to her face as she saw the man carrying a few bags of groceries. 

"Akio. I'm home."

"Ah, I was trying to finish up before you returned, but I guess you just beat me." Akio chuckled lightly. 

"I'll help," she offered, but Akio dodged her move to take a bag.

"You just got back. What kind of a gentleman or friend would I be if I handed off work to an already tired lady."

Kinu rolled her eyes at the teasing. Her eyes took on a more cautious gleam. "While it would be nice to go home. I'm afraid if may not be wise at this time." 

"Why's that?" Akio held an outward casual charm, but he had become serious as well.

"I've been followed for some time around the village since I got back."

"Hmm...which direction?" 

"Behind me right now."

Akio discreetly sniffed the air a moment. A smile then crawled over his face and he gave a chuckle. "It's alright!" he called out, "she's a friend. Don't worry, she's far more friendlier than Hisayo. She won't try to bite."

Kinu blinked, very confused now. "You know who's following me?"

"Of course." Akio's chuckle became just a bit sheepish. "She and Hisayo have been...well, I'm sure you'll find out soon enough. She's friendly enough though, so don't worry."

"A woman?" Kinu's lifted a curious, if not judgmental brow. 

"Ah, you might be getting the wrong idea. Kakashi's the one this concerns."

"Ah," Kinu nodded, understanding better now.

...

Taryn walked up to the pair casually. It didn't surprise her one bit that the wolfgirl had noticed her. If she was anything like Akio or Hisayo, it would only be logical. She had merely been wary of the girl's intentions. "A friend huh," she commented when she had reached the two.

Akio gave a sheepish chuckle. "I guess you could say she is more like...family. Right Kinu?"

Kinu's cheeks tinted just a bit pink as she pointedly avoided making eye contact with the man. She cleared her throat. "I love—LIVE! I live with Akio...and Hisayo." She supplied after another dreadful stumble. She hoped she had covered herself well and that neither noticed. She had to clear her throat once more in her uncomfortable state. "I am Kinu. Pleasure to make your acquaintance. Akio nor Hisayo ever mentioned you before though I'm afraid."

Akio sweatdropped. "Yes, well, she is a very new friend. She came over from Suna with her students for the Chuunin Exams, but she is originally from this village."

"I missed the exams, did I? How were they?"

Taryn took a deep breath. "They were quite... eventful," she said dryly.

Akio gave a sheepish chuckle and scratched his neck while Kinu looked at the two confused.

"Eventful?" she questioned.

"Let's just say Hisayo is still a bit... cautious when making new friends," Akio said.

"Cautious," Taryn muttered. That wasn't the word she would have used.

Kinu let out a sigh. "I understand. Don't feel bad. She still doesn't like me very much. And it's been months."

"I guess those indirect contacts over the years don't count then?" Akio chuckled, but let out a tired sigh. "Such a jealous child." Hmm, hadn't he said that very same thing earlier in the day? He must be getting old after all. "Anyway, Kinu this is Taryn. I'm sure you two will hit it off far better than... well, you'll just have a nicer... far less violent," he muttered under his breath, but soon straightened up at the pointedly unamused stares from both women. "Ah, a great time! Great friendship! Yes! So I'll be heading home first then to put away the groceries!"

Taryn sighed when Akio rushed off, leaving a cloud of dust behind. "I swear, he's even worse than Kakashi sometimes. You'd think we're incapable of civilized conversations with anyone."

Kinu also sighed as she gave her head a small shake. "Akio is always like that. He'll be serious one moment, then the next...well, as you just saw..." The Ookami woman then tilted her head as she better observed the woman, noticing her eyes that had yet to deactivate. "A Hyuuga?" She blinked confused. "But then I guess it would make sense as Akio just said you're originally from this village."

Taryn smiled. "Sorry about that. Habit." She deactivated the jutsu. "My mother was Hyuuga," she explained.

"Ah, I see now." There was nothing to worry about and it was no business of hers how that may have come to be, so she moved on. Kinu then lifted a slightly teasing brow. "So, Kakashi, I take it, is in quite the little pickle between you and Hisayo? Akio did say Kakashi was concerned in some way. A past lover of his perhaps?" Oh, if that was the case, then maybe Hisayo might not be as hostile towards her and be more concerned over Taryn. It wasn't that she was hoping for that – she'd wish Hisayo's temper upon non that were not deserving. She just wished for a little peace and not have that feeling of being carefully watched any time she was near Akio.

Taryn sighed. "It's really no big deal. And it was long ago." She crossed her arms annoyed. "There's no need for her to get all territorial."

Kinu sweatdropped. "Oh, she is territorial alright. She isn't particularly fond of me living around her where Akio is involved. But I can understand why." A saddened smile seemed to show across her lips. "She only had Akio before moving here and making the friends she now has. She's very protective of them. They are like a family to her really."

"So I've noticed," Taryn said. A sad smiled crossed her lips. She knew what it was like to have no one. How long had it taken her to let someone in? She sighed. "It can be hard to trust new people, I suppose."

Kinu's expression became slightly dark. "She has her reasons for being so wary of others." That darkness disappeared, and she smiled once more. "But her friends have her back. And me too, even if she doesn't like me quite as much as others."

"I guess sneezing earlier was because someone was talking about me...Kinu." 

Both women turned to the newcomer. Kinu sweatdropped, yet gave a kind smile. "Hisayo. I'm home and had just run into a friend of yours that Akio introduced."

A brow rose up as Hisayo regarded the green eyed woman. "Hn, should have figured. Take your time getting home."

Taryn watched the exchange carefully. So she wasn't the only one on the receiving end of Hisayo's scorn. She wisely decided to stay out of this conversation. "I should probably be going," she said, "it was nice meeting you, Kinu. Please give my best to Akio. I suppose I'll see you around."

"I'll do it for you." Hisayo had yet to take her eyes off of Kinu. "I'm going home first." She announced as she turned and left.

Kinu let out a heavy sigh. "Don't worry. It isn't too unpleasant with her. She usually ignores me for the most part. Akio makes her behave."

Taryn grinned. "I wish you luck. At least I get to escape to Suna in a few days."

"Yes, lucky you." She pouted.

"At least you have Akio to back you up," Taryn commented.

Kinu's face tinted pink at the comment made. She looked away from Taryn. "I-I guess I do..." she then cleared her throat as she gathered her composure. "Have a safe journey home if we don't see each other again. You are quite pleasant."

Taryn laughed softly. "So are you." She hadn't missed the blush on Kinu's face. "I should..." She was interrupted when she heard someone call her name.

"T-Taryn."

"Hinata?" she asked surprised, "is everything alright?"

Hinata glanced at Kinu momentarily and then looked back at Taryn. "My f-father requests your presence. I-it's about my s-sister."

Taryn frowned and then let out a sigh. "Alright. I'll be there."

Kinu smiled kindly. In that smile was also a bit of sadness and longing. "Looks like your family needs you. Go spend time with them." She knew the child was a Hyuuga through her time spent in the village.

Taryn nodded and smiled. "Next time, I'll introduce you to my students."

"Yes, that would be nice." Kinu nodded as well before turning and quietly leaving. Her sash and the purple trail of her outfit blew back slightly with the breeze in a graceful dance. Despite her fluid and calm motion, she was more likely nervous upon her return home now. She could only hope Akio would have Hisayo calmed and obedient when she reached home.

***

It was no surprise that upon her return home that she'd smell Kinu's scent lingering around her father. He was knelt down at the fridge putting away the last of his shopping. It was also no surprise to Akio that Kinu's scent was ever so slightly present around his daughter. No doubt the two had met along the way. He cringed at the thought, 'Sure hope Taryn hadn't been around when that happened.' But an extra breeze blew through the door and with it Taryn's scent. He sighed as he got back to his feet. "I do hope you were at the very least civil. Kinu hasn't been home in over a month. The last thing I think she wants to come home to is a hostile roommate. And Taryn; hope she didn't have to see any hostile scenes herself. She gets enough of that already, you know."

"I did nothing." Hisayo gave a light pout. "You're way too nice to Kinu."

"And Taryn?"

"I was too annoyed with your smell over Kinu that I didn't bother with her. She says hello by the way. See? I was nice enough to relay her message."

Akio sighed and shook his head. "Don't feel so threatened by Kinu. She hasn't done a single thing to cause you any real worry has she? She's on our side, Hisayo."

"Heh, on yours. She'd do anything you'd tell her to, I'd bet."

Akio flinched back slightly as the tiniest of pink hit his cheeks now. "That's not playing nice." So embarrassing to have Hisayo say such things. It was probably only the truth though.

Hisayo smirked, seeing the slight fall in her sensei's. She had to be proud—Akio rarely let his defences slip, even when he wasn't being serious. Her smirk faltered however upon seeing the mischievous smile crawl over Akio's face. "F-father...?" That smile was too...suspicious.

"You know, I just remembered something. Kakashi told me to tell you he needed you to run to the book store to pick up his new edition of his book...Afraid he can't do it himself, so hoped you would do it for him."

Hisayo's face tinted. She knew what books he read and it would be the most embarrassing for her, a woman, to be picking up such material for him in his stead. But...Kakashi had asked this of her? "B-but..."

"I said I'd do it for him of course." There was that dramatic tint to Akio's voice as he looked to be so distraught that he'd break out into tears. "But I told him 'Sorry my dear boy, but I'm needed at home right now. Our dear Kinu will be arriving home very soon. Why, how do you think she'd feel upon coming home only for there to be no one to greet her? She'd be so sad, I said, and I just can't allow that!' He then asked if maybe you might, but I told him there was no way you'd do such a favor for him. 'She might like you, I said, but there is no way she would ever, EVER—"

"I'll do it!" Hisayo cut off Akio before he could continue. "I'll...get his book for him, but only because it's him! I'll do no such thing for anyone else!"

Akio snorted, as he covered his mouth to keep from chuckling, but he just couldn't hold it in any longer. The expression on Hisayo's beat red face was just too much.

"What? What is it?" Hisayo demanded with a growl as Akio's chuckles escalated into full on laughter.

"I believe that makes us more than even. That look on your face is quite priceless." He calmed just enough to continue. "Now who would do anything for whom?"

Hisayo's face great red again as she stomped away and slammed her door. "You are too much sometimes father!"

"I expect you to be nice when Kinu comes home—or it will be another lost round to you!" He smiled happily at the closed door.

"I'm ignoring you both!" he heard her call out from the other side.

He gave his head a small shake as he sighed. With Hisayo locked up in her room to fume at her latest embarrassment (he'd remember that for eternity by the way—and possibly use it against her in the future...) Kinu would be able to enjoy walking around the rest of the apartment and relax without having Hisayo's sharp eyes on her back.

The door opened just then and a big smile came to his face. He knew who it was. The woman who entered appeared calm enough, but he could see her eyes shifting warily.

"No need to act like you're stepping over thin ice." He chuckled. "Hisayo's decided to turn in early for the evening."

"Is that so?" Kinu lifted a slightly accusing brow. "No doubt you had something to do with it."

That smile only widened on Akio's face. "I may have stirred her up just a little." Quite a lot, but no need to get into specifics. Kinu would turn beyond shy if he explained to her in full what had happened. It had been so long, and he just wanted to enjoy her company. "So, hungry?"

Kinu smiled as she followed Akio into the kitchen. "Famished." Her first meal home after over a month away was more than welcome.

***

Hiashi Hyuuga paced the room while his youngest daughter sat quietly on a chair. He watched the door carefully for his niece to enter. What was taking so long? He had told Hinata to bring her straight here.

He turned his eyes towards Hanabi. The girl was tense. He didn't like it one bit. She needed to learn to be more collected. How else was she going to make it to Chuunin level.

"You sent for me?"

Hiashi turned and saw Taryn enter the room. "We need to speak."

Taryn glanced at Hanabi who had closed her eyes. It was a good thing Hiashi wasn't currently paying attention to his daughter or he would not be pleased. She looked at Hiashi. "What is it about?"

"Hanabi's training."

Hanabi held back a flinch. The time was here. He fate was to be decided right here and now it seemed. She carefully opened her eyes and with even more care and discretion, she looked to her cousin. Taryn looked far more calm and collected than her. She envied the older Hyuuga's ability to do such a thing in the presence of her intimidating father.

"And?" Taryn asked, "what have you decided?"

Hiashi's gaze burrowed into Taryn's unafraid orbs. It both annoyed and impressed him slightly that she would be so confident in his presence. That gaze turned back to Hanabi who couldn't divert her gaze away fast enough. It appeared Hanabi would still need to be trained in such an area. His mind was made up. For once he mentally questioned himself over a decision of his. 

"I cannot deny that I have, in fact, seen the improvement Hanabi has made in the short duration I allowed you to work with her. There are still areas of improvement. However, despite her station in this household... I must also consider her age. She is young, in need of further growth and development... her level of experience is not quite up to my personal standards given all the time she has trained under my supervision, nor... Ebisu's." That name was not spoken in any high regard or liking for that matter. "But if she is to gain the experience I wish of her, and for her own development of our clan's dojutsu, she must still be exposed to areas outside the clan... and village. Therefore, with her recent growth also considered, she will be allowed to remain in a team cell and carry out missions. Do not think this gives you any rights to revel in glory; this decision was not taken lightly and your aid in the matter was only but a small weigh in of that decision." He still had to remain strong in his position. Like a mighty mountain unwavering through even the strongest of winds and storms.

"Of course," Taryn said evenly. She had expected to not get any credit from Hiashi. It didn't matter to her. She was glad for Hanabi. It would be good for her to remain with her team, even if one of them would be replaced.

Hanabi let out a inward sigh of great relief. It appeared that Taryn had saved her...for now. It was up to her now to remain out of danger from any scrutiny her father in the future. She had to train harder than before. Perform stronger than before too. She had to show her father that she was capable. She wanted to gain his respect and approval.

"If that was all," Taryn said, "I'll get back to my students."

"Father, I wish to be dismissed as well." Hanabi swallowed hard as her father's orbs landed on her. "I...have lessons to attend." She cleared her throat. "Etiquette lessons." A valid excuse. She was not only just a ninja, she was an heir to the family, a future leader. She needed to also learn proper etiquette and code so not to bring shame to the Hyuuga name.

Hiashi gave his nod of approval. Hanabi bowed in respect, stood up, and followed after Taryn a safe enough distance to not rise any suspicion from her father, until she was out of his sight.

...

Taryn was leaning against the outer Compound wall, patiently waiting for her cousin to catch up with her. She had a suspicion it wouldn't take too long for the young Hyuuga to appear. And she was right. She hadn't even counted to twenty yet.

"Congratulations," Taryn said kindly, "you get to stay with your friends."

Hanabi hesitated. "They...are a little annoying sometimes, and whiny, but...they were the only people I had ties with outside the family. I guess they do kinda grow on you...Thank you. Without your help..."

"Don't mention it," Taryn said, "you'll work things out on your own just fine." She smiled. "And you have your friends to help you when you don't."

Hanabi gave a genuine smile, before she smirked. "Tell Daro he better watch out. Next time he sees me, I'll definitely beat him—easy. No way any of your students will embarrass me again. Got that?"

Taryn grinned as well. It was good to see she had her fighting spirit back. "Next time, he'll be stronger too, you know," she said, "and the only one that 's capable of embarrassing you is you yourself." She pushed away from the wall and sauntered out of the Compound. "See you around, Hanabi-chan."

Hanabi let out an irritated huff at the last comment, but a content smirk was back on her face as she watched her cousin leave.

***

It was one of those rare times they ran into Kakashi by himself. In fact, in almost seemed like he was cautious in his movements (despite that little orange book being glued to his face). Suzume held back a tiny snort in amusement as she came to her over romanticized reasons as to why that was—though they may not have been as farfetched. 

"What is it this time?" Akira dared the question. Ken sighed and shook his head.

"I think we both already know the answer." He said with a slightly amused smirk. 

"I bet he was in the middle of another...um, dispute." Akira carefully and not quite so tactfully implied.

Suzume giggled as she waved the shinobi down. "He seemed to freeze up, but upon inspecting the lively streets and not finding their sensei accompanying them, he let out a sigh and approached.

"Yo."

"Sneaking around, looking suspicious?" Ken smirked. "Wonder why?"

Kakashi let out a bored breath of air, but he wasn't fooling Ken's ability to read his chakra. "Just thought I'd trek a little extra carefully today. Kinu arrived back yesterday and it only seemed to stir the fire back to life in the village if you know what I mean."

Akira chuckled. "Then why don't you ask for a mission out of the village for a little while with Naruto and the others?"

"You know why he wouldn't. Taryn's leaving soon...along with her boys." Suzume seemed to pout.

Ken cringed and rolled his eyes. "Yeah, yeah, we get it, Suzume: You're going to miss them."

"So then, why not just hang out with her? Er, I guess we could keep Hisayo-sensei occupied—er, but that wouldn't be the best idea, would it?"

"That's the worst idea...not to mention weird." Ken frowned at the idea. "I mean, it would make Hatake-san look like a sleaze or something."

"Geeze...thanks." Kakashi was so disheartened at the comment. 

"Then we should all somehow figure out how to spend time together so Hatake-san can see Taryn without it seeming so unfaithful to sensei." Suzume beamed as the ideas began to form in her head.

Another shot to his pride. Did he really look like that type of person? Kakashi's head sank low.

"Ooo, I know!" Akira opened his mouth once more, but was cut off with a hand over his mouth. 

"Not a sit down dinner, Akira." Suzume's brow seemed to twitch in irritation. "You and Hiro will not let anyone have any peace."

"Not to mention eat all our food." Ken muttered. "We'll think of something...maybe. They still have a couple of days left."

***

"Ah man," Daro sighed as he dropped himself on the bed, "I can't believe we're leaving in a few days. I've had so much fun here. I don't really want to leave."

"Yeah," Hiro sighed, "I'm gonna miss the new friends we made."

"Miss Suzume you mean," Daro grinned. He yelped and ducked when a pillow flew across the room, barely missing his head.

"We might see them again," Taryn said, "besides, there are missions waiting back home and I'm sure your parents will want to see you again. We can't stay in Konoha forever."

"It's so weird," Daro sighed. He crossed his legs and leaned his head on his hand. "I can't believe I'm a Chuunin now."

The other two boys looked sad for a moment. Their team would split up once they had returned to Suna. Someone else would fill Daro's place. They weren't ready for that yet.

Taryn bit her lip. She still hadn't picked a gift for Daro yet. She hadn't had the chance to speak with Akio. And now that Kinu had returned, she might not have the chance. Akio would probably want to spent time with her.

A part of her was sad to leave Konoha as well. Despite the trouble with Hisayo, she had made new friends. And it was the first time since the Uchiha massacre that she felt comfortable being here.

"Sensei?" Daro's voice punctured her thoughts and she looked up.

"Yes?"

"Are we really leaving already? I mean we haven't even sparred yet with Akira and the others."

Taryn gave them an unimpressed look, remembering the day of their arrival in Konoha. "Didn't you all do that the very first time you met?"

Hiro crossed his arms. "That doesn't count. We were talking about a friendly spar."

"Yeah," Daro nodded vividly, "I wanna test my skills against Akira."

Taryn bit her lip. Daro might have been promoted, but she knew Akira had more experience in the field. She didn't want to risk any injury that might prolong their visit any longer. Gaara would not be amused. She flicked her eyes over at Kuro who hadn't said anything yet. His leg had just been deemed healed. She couldn't chance a permanent injury.

"Friendly spar eh?" she mused and then nodded. "I might have an idea. Wait here." She made a few hand signs and flitted from the room.

The three boys looked at each other nervously. "Err..." Hiro said uncertain, "was this a bad idea?"

Kuro shrugged. "You know sensei, once she has an idea, there's no stopping her."

"Yeah," Hiro gulped, "that's what I'm afraid of."

***

"Ah, isn't it a nice day—no work, no academy, just free time—to be out together for a walk?" Akio smiled brightly as he and two others at his side followed along down the roads of the village.

"The only reason I'm here is because you kept harassing me." Hisayo lightly fumed.

Kinu sweat dropped. "You didn't have to tease her so much, Akio. She could have stayed home."

"And allow you to breath down Akio's back? No." Hisayo flatly said.

"Who's breathing down whose back, exactly here?" Kinu muttered with a tiny nervous sigh.

Akio chuckled. "Be nice, Hisayo. It isn't often all three of us get time off at the same time."

Hisayo sighed, but didn't say anything more. Akio was happy enough, and she had yet to run across any unfavorable or uncomfortable situation today, so she couldn't complain...well, except that Kinu continued to be around, much to her constant dismay and jealousy.

"Well hello," a voice sounded not too far away, "fancy seeing you three out here." A lazy smiled Kakashi came into view, accompanied by Hisayo's students. A rare sight.

Hisayo's three students eyed their sensei warily. Hisayo and Kinu together was a rare sight and by the look on their sensei's face, things were on the road to becoming explosive. 

Ken took the initiative to calm, or at least help relieve the tension. "Hisayo-sensei! Hey! We were just talking to Hatake-san about hanging out. Wanna come? You have the day off too, right?"

Hisayo's expression seemed to lighten. She gave a small nod with just a hint of a smile. "Okay, but..." But there was Kinu still. No way would she let her be around Akio alone.

Akio sighed. "We'll come along too."

"Er, I don't want to intrude..." Kinu began.

Hisayo seemed to light up just a bit. "You should go home then."

"Kinu is allowed to come along too." Akio ushered Kinu towards the group.

Kakashi sighed at the sight of seeing Hisayo tense and narrow her eyes. "I'll stay in the back with Akio."

"Kinu, talk with me!" Suzume tried to add further aid, gently taking the older woman by the hand and drawing her to her side of the group...away from Hisayo and Akio. "Your hair is so long and pretty, why don't you let it loose more often, or at least when you aren't on duty?"

Ken and Akira relaxed, thankful for their teammate's intervention. They didn't know how to deal with girls...or older women. With Hisayo, it was a bit easier since she wasn't so girly; so they took up discussing training tactics with her since she wasn't always around to train with them. With the group in order and the tension gone (since Akio was the one to be taken out of the middle now), the walk was actually peaceful now. That was, until a cloud of dust appeared in front of them, revealing a young woman well-known to all of them.

"Taryn, hi," Ken greeted, both happy to see her and nervous about the stir it would cause.

"Ah good," Taryn said when she looked at the group, "I found you all at once. That saves some time."

She ignored the different kinds of stares she was given, from kind to wary to hostile.

"What do you want?" Hisayo said annoyed.

Taryn gave a nervous laugh. "Well, since we're leaving in a few days..."

"Thankfully," Hisayo muttered under her breath.

"... my students reminded me of a spar they were still owed. Since they've only just recovered from their injuries, I thought it best to come up with an alternative." She smirked and turned to Kakashi. "So, I need two flags, a bunch of bandannas in two different colors, a box of wireless and face paints. You think you can get me that by tomorrow morning? Meet us at the field where we trained Hanabi. Dawn." She grinned at Hisayo's students. "See you then... if you dare." She laughed evilly before flickering away again, leaving the others in various states of confusion. What had just happened?

Kakashi sighed heavily. "What is she planning now?"

"Planning?" Ken blinked. "I could barely keep up to figure that much."

"Yeah, what just happened?" Akira was also in a deep state of confusion.

"I'm not sure I like where this may be going." Akio gave a nervously sheepish chuckle.

"Don't find the situation funny." Hisayo frowned. "Fighting and field were words involved. I don't like it."

Kakashi sighed. "I'll explain." He was used to Taryn and the way her mind worked—not to mention he did have the Sharingan, so he caught every single word.

***

He was being tactful that evening. Very tactful...but this was Akio so she wasn't surprised—only annoyed. Why was she annoyed that same evening as she sat at the dinner table with Akio and Kinu. Okay, it was a given that she would be annoyed because Kinu was there, but that wasn't what was currently bothering her right now. It was the fact that Akio was manipulating the situation...again, by having invited over a familiar face.

Naruto.

She was happy to see the boy and have a rare (for nowadays) dinner with him, but it's what Akio mentioned to the boy—quite obviously in fact—about what Taryn was possibly planning, thanks to Kakashi's explanation of the earlier madness.

"Oh! I bet she wants to play 'capture the flag'!" The boy beamed between mouthfuls of food.

"What?" Hisayo was curious. She had never heard of it before. It was supposed to be a sort of...game?

"Yeah, you have two teams with flags that you are supposed to 'catch' the team that catches the other teams flag and brings it back to their 'base' is the winner!"

"So...you don't fight?" Hisayo was still wary.

Naruto chuckled. "Not really, but you gotta play 'ninja' style."

"Ninja style?"

"Yeah, you know, jutsu and fighting, but nothing serious....I guess that depends on the rules though."

Naruto frowned in thought. Hisayo had to say she wasn't feeling any less worried. "I guess some might like to play hardcore and actually tear up the field and—"

"Okay!" Akio clapped his hands together. "Who wants dessert?!"

"Me!" Naruto was of course the first (and loudest) to accept the offer.

Akio let out a nervous chuckle as he saw a drizzling raincloud over Hisayo's head. No doubt she was worried. No need for Naruto to make it worse....but it only did—or maybe it wasn't exactly too bad an idea.

"I'll play too!" Naruto laughed in delight. "haven't played a real game before of it." The three older ones at the table understood why.

Hisayo sighed. "If that is what we are 'playing' tomorrow, then you can join."

"Alright!!"

***

"So... what exactly is it we're going to do?" Hiro asked warily. For the most part, Taryn's plans included hard work and unexpected surprises. And not all of them were pleasant.

"You'll see," Taryn answered. She smirked at his nervous expression. "You were the ones that wanted to fight. I'm merely setting up the battlefield. Are you backing out now? Hn?"

Hiro gulped. "N-no, of course not."

"Good!" Taryn clapped her hands, "then we can go." She opened the door and motioned for her students to follow her. She hoped Kakashi had been able to gather all necessary equipment. She bit her lip. Perhaps she should have cleared it with the Hokage first, but then she shrugged. If any trouble would arise, she would deal with it then. Besides, if they used their skills, no one would have to figure out what was going on. Even if the town would turn into a battlefield.

***

"Won't you please?"

"I don't want to be caught in the middle."

"But you won't."

"With Hisayo there; yes, I will."

"But I'll be there too, so no need to worry."

Kinu tried her hardest to ignore the kicked puppy dog look Akio was sending her that morning. It was one of the rare moments that Hisayo left the two alone—she was taking a shower, as fast as she could.

"So please?"

The woman's shoulders sank and she finally gave in. "Alright, fine. I'll be the referee if they so happen to need one." Her face heated up as Akio drew her in a small thankful embrace. He then casually went to the stove to retrieve the hot water pot for their tea.

"You'll thank me later for talking you into it, trust me." He chuckled.

"If you say so..." Kinu was still a bit flustered from the sudden hug. She quickly schooled herself back to being calm and fluid in movement as she took the offered cup of hot tea. Her eyes flicked discreetly in the direction of the now silent washroom, then back to her drink. "I guess her attention would be held enough by today's activities."

"Don't forget, Naruto will be there too."

Kinu chuckled lightly along with Akio. With Naruto involved, attention would definitely be held not just by Hisayo, but by everyone as well.

***

"Taryn-san, Taryn-san wait up!"

Taryn stopped at the sound of Naruto's voice and smiled at the boy. "Hey Naruto, you're up early."

Naruto beamed at her. "I didn't want to miss it. Hisayo-san and Akio-san told me all about it. You're going to play 'capture the flag', aren't you?"

Taryn laughed softly and ignore her students who were staring at her dumbly.

"Capture the flag?" Daro blinked.

"How is that a sparring match?" Hiro questioned.

"Was I right? Was I?" Naruto bounced happily.

"Yes," Taryn nodded, "you're right."

"Sensei," Hiro asked carefully, "I thought we were going to fight today, you know, to test our skills against Hisayo-san's students. But we're going to play a game instead?" He was slightly disappointed.

Kuro bit his lip. Usually when Taryn was planning anything, it wasn't just anything. There was going to be a catch. And by the look on her face, it was going to be big.

"This isn't just any game," Taryn said.

"It's capture the flag," Daro pointed out in a flat tone.

"No," Taryn smirked, "it's capture the flag ninja style."

Hiro eyed her warily. "Ninja... style?" He swallowed, "does that mean... deathtraps and violence?"

"Possibly," Taryn nodded with a serious face.

Hiro sighed. "I was afraid you'd say that."

***

She was humming happily and it made him just a little annoyed. He wouldn't comment on it though. Not unless he wanted to be on the receiving end of some angry shrills. Having Suzume mad at him was not something he wanted. It was way too early in the morning anyway. Akira on the other hand didn't seem to mind or even notice Suzume's upbeat hums.

"I'm so excited!" Suzume beamed. "I wonder how the teams will be arranged and what sort of twists to the game Taryn might have."

"If it's ninja style, then I bet anything goes!" Akira was obviously also excited.

Ken stifled a yawn. "You two are so loud..."

"Aw, I bet your just feeling the jealousy beetle biting." Akira whispered the comment as Suzume continued to be in the lead.

Ken's cheeks tinted. "I'm not jealous, just still sleepy."

"Better wake up before we get started or you're gonna get owned." Akira grinned. "If we're on opposing teams, I'll definitely take you down."

"Knock it off, Akira."

"Hehe, it'll be so embarrassing for you to have juniors see their senior bite the dust. Ha! See what I did there? Cause I'm an earth users? So you'll totally eat my earthy dust!"

"Guys..."

"Not before your face smacked into my barrier."

"I know how to avoid your same old tricks."

"Guys..."

"You're really asking for it."

"Then bring it, unless you're still too sleepy."

"I'm wide awake!"

"GUYS!"

Birds bolted from their posts in the trees and the area grew quiet. Both boys shrank down in chibi fashion as they saw their red-headed teammate appear to have risen in height with fire burning in her eyes.

"Behave or you don't get to play the game at all. This is probably the last time we get to spend time with Hiro-kun and the others, so DON'T ruin it!"

"Y-yes m'am!"

Sheesh, Suzume really could be loud when she wanted and needed to be. The tyranny she could bring to the field and yet somehow, it could all be turned to them. Enemies would be scratching their heads in confusion over whether or not Suzume was a friend or foe. But really, Akira and Ken were at fault.

So much for trying to avoid angry shrills so early in the morning.

Both boys froze, unsure of how they were supposed to act when Suzume seemed to do a one-eighty and hugged them both. "Awww!! But you can still have fun." She cooed lovingly. Akira and Ken almost relaxed, but tensed up at yet another one-eighty spin. Her voice had come out sweet, but it was so threatening. "Just don't have too much fun and ruin the game."

They both gulped. Sometimes it seemed there teammate was bi-polar. They only hoped they wouldn't be in the team against hers. Kami have mercy on the team that was against hers.

***

"They're here," Kuro noted when he saw Suzume's red hair appear around the corner.

The other two boys followed his gaze and Daro smirked. "Aww see that Hiro? She couldn't wait to see you again, either."

"Shut up!" Hiro shouted, "or I'm gonna tell Casey about your crush on her."

"I do not have a crush on Casey!"

"Riiight," Hiro nodded.

"Who is Casey?" Naruto asked curiously. He grew a devious smirk when he looked at Daro. "Is she your girlfriend?"

"She's not my girlfriend!" Daro shouted, his face a deep red.

"Hey guys," Kuro said casually in an attempt to calm things down before things got out of hand, "if Naruto is gonna play, we'll have uneven teams."

Naruto's face dropped. "I guess I won't be playing then." He let out a sad sigh. He had been so excited. He had never played this game before and he had been looking forward to it. He had hardly slept from anticipation.

"Of course you're playing," Taryn said. She placed an arm around his shoulder. "It just means we need an extra player." A devious smile crept on her face.

"Oh no," Daro muttered.

Taryn's smirk got wider. "And I know the perfect victim."

...

Hisayo's students weren't the only ones who had come into view. The Ookami trio were in sight, followed by a slightly pouting looking Copy-Ninja.

"Was it really necessary to break into my apartment and get me out of bed so early?" Kakashi was frowning with the supplies, that had been hastily asked for the day before, in his arms. His hair looked a bit disheveled and his lone onyx eye looked lazier than usual.

From beside him, acting as his heard dog—er, wolf—was Hisayo. She appeared to be indifferent, but a closer inspection would see the tiny glint of irritation in her eyes. "The sooner we can get this over with, the sooner I can go home and enjoy the rest of my time off without anyone to interfere. And I think you are being over dramatic. I didn't 'break' into your apartment. The door was unlocked to I let myself in."

"A mistake I'll try not to repeat..."

"What was that?"

"Nothing."

...

"Great! We all got here at the same time!" Akira grinned in anticipation since they wouldn't have to wait at all to get started. Their sensei had done a good job getting the notoriously late ninja out of his bed and at the location on time.

"Good morning." Suzume happily greeted everyone. She turned to Hiro and smiled even brighter. "Morning, Hiro-kun."

Hiro turned red. "H-hi, S-Suzume..."

Next to him, Daro coughed. "C...rush..."

Hiro stomped his foot, causing Daro to yelp.

Kuro let out a deep sigh at his teammates' behavior. "Hi guys."

Ken frowned, but otherwise gave a friendly greeting. He froze up slightly when Taryn caught his gaze and smiled. "M-morning Taryn."

"Hello Ken," Taryn smiled back.

From beside him, Suzume let out a small huff. She gave Taryn's boys more attention, ignoring Ken.

"Ooo," Akira gave a quiet chuckle as he gently elbowed Ken, "Think you're still making 'Suzu-chan' mad."

"Shut up." Ken pouted.

"Can we get this over with now?" Hisayo casually pushed Kakashi forward to deliver the supplies.

"Be nice, Hisayo." Akio gave the small chuckle at Kakashi's expense.

Kakashi sighed. "Yo," He greeted everyone as he handed over the supplies.

Taryn looked at him. "Did you manage to get everything?"

Naruto snatched them away from his sensei however with a mischievous chuckle. "Yes! Paint!"

"Let me see too, Naruto!" Akira joined him with an excited grin.

Taryn smiled amused. "I guess that's a yes. Alright. Let's get started then."

"I'll set down some rules," Kinu began.

"Ooo! I'm on Hisayo's and Taryn's team!" Naruto self-appointed the two women to his team. Kinu sighed quietly at the interruption.

"We are not going to be on the same team." Hisayo frowned.

"Hmm, that might be a good idea." Kakashi pondered over the thought. "Taryn and Hisayo on the same team..." He froze slightly at the dangerous glares and auras he was receiving from the women.

"Give us one good reason why we should." Hisayo's student's discreetly drew away from their sensei.

"You guys might want to fall back a bit." Suzume quietly spoke to Taryn's boys as she gently pulled them along.

Kakashi did not like that electric look Hisayo was giving him. "...A stronger sense of unity?" He leaned away as Hisayo's frown deepened. "Ehehehe, um, Akio, a little help here?"

Akio looked at Kinu for help. "Err.... Kinu?"

Kinu's eyebrow twitched . "

I already agreed to be the neutral party."

"Before I forget," Taryn said, shifting her eyes towards Kakashi. "We're one man short now that Naruto is playing."

Kakashi gulped and studied Taryn cautiously. "I'm not sure if..."

Hisayo narrowed her eyes. "If Naruto can't participate..." A dark aura appeared around her.

Kakshi sighed. "Where do I sign up?" He was met with a goodhearted pat over his shoulder.

"Such a great sport." Akio smiled. "Everyone have fun!"

Kakashi gave a small glare. "You know, you and Kinu could still participate and make the teams even. Getting too old for games?"

Kinu grew offended by the comment on aging since it had also been directed at her. "Did I forget to mention to everyone that I will be referring this...'game'?"

Kakashi flinched at the menacing glare directed at him by the Ookami woman. "I see..." He let out a pitiful sigh.

"See?" Akio continued to smile brightly, "So I'm afraid I cannot join in. It saddens me deeply."

"I'm sure it does....So, since you have dragged me into this, I think it would only be fair if you let me pick the rest of the teams."

Hisayo eyed him cautiously, trying to determine what she wanted the outcome to be. If Kakashi would be on one team with Taryn, then that would mean the two of them working together with no telling what they were up to. On the other hand, the alternative was Taryn being on the opposite team, meaning she could be targeting Kakashi. She didn't want the Suna girl anywhere near him without her being around. That left only one option.

Taryn rolled her eyes, unaware of what was going through the Ookami woman's mind. "Fine, fine," she said, "you can pick the teams. You're such a child sometimes."

Kakashi ignored her. "It would only be fair to divide the teams evenly. So someone from each student group, yes? Since Daro is the only Chuunin from Taryn's students, he can be on my team. And I'll pick Ken and Kuro." He paused. "And Akira."

There was a silence as the others processed what that meant. And an even more awkward silence when they figured out who would be together on the other team.

Akio patted Kakashi's shoulder. "It was nice knowing you."

Kinu let out a heavy sigh on seeing the evil looks that were thrown around. "No excessive violence is the first rule."

Kakashi let out heavy sigh of relief, but was still not feeling 100% safe.

Hisayo, meanwhile, had let out a disappointed huff, but her lips still twitch up in a tiny, if not, menacing, smirk.

Akira leaned over to Daro, "This is only a game...right? I don't really wanna fight sensei. Once was enough..."

"Let's get the flag first, Hiro-kun!" Suzume beamed brightly to her teammate.

Hiro flushed a deep red, "S-s-sure, Suzume-chan. I-I'll get it for you!"

Ken grumbled at the sight. But...since he was on the opposite team as Hiro...

Kuro sighed, knowing things were only just getting heated all around. "How exactly did we agree to something so dangerous?"

"It's going to get dangerous all right." There was a fire of determination in Ken's eyes as he continued to see Suzume smiling brightly at Hiro.

Daro, meanwhile has shrugged off Akira's worry. "I don't think you're the one that needs to worry."

He looked over to Kakashi who looked very worried at the moment. "I don't think you're the one on the menu..."

"Alright! So I AM on Taryn's and Hisayo's team!" Naruto was practically bouncing in joy.

The two teams huddled together into their appointed groups and each took a coloured bandana to indicate which team they were on.

Daro smirked at his teammates. "Ha, we have the advantage. We will so win this."

Akira and Ken laughed. "Trust us, with Suzume and Hisayo-sensei on one team, they're the ones with the advantage."

Kuro raised an eyebrow at Daro. "Have you forgotten Taryn-sensei is on the other team as well?" He glanced at Kakashi unimpressed. "I don't think he'll stand much of a chance if they decide to team up on him."

Kakashi sighed. "So little trust in my abilities. Ah I remember the days when the kids still looked up to me."

Daro glanced at him with a blank expression. "What century was that?"

Akira sniggered.

...

Not far away Taryn and Hisayo were holding a staring contest until Hiro drew their attention. "So, shouldn't we have a plan of action?"

Taryn turned to him and nodded. "We need a team captain."

"I will take lead." Hisayo calmly spoke up. "I know how Akira and Ken will work—Kakashi as well."

Taryn narrowed her eyes. "You forget Daro and Kuro are on that team, they are my students. And I'd say I know Kakashi's fighting style quite well too."

Hisayo's eyes narrowed. "So I am reminded..."

"Um, ladies..."

"What is that supposed to mean?" Taryn growled.

"I have to spell it out for you?"

"...Ladies."

"I guess you do!"

Naruto and Hiro looked from one woman to the other, Hiro nervous, Naruto confused.

"Oh dear," Akio sighed, "Here we go..."

Kinu sighed. "The game hasn't even begun yet..."

"Ladies!" Hisayo and Taryn both looked to the young red-head. Both seemed a bit confused by her sudden outburst. "I'm going to be team captain!" Suzume stomped between the two older women. She looked between the two. "Your personalities clash way too much.  And in case you forgot, this is supposed to only be a game—not some match to the death for Hatake-san's affections here!" Suzume had to take in several breathes of air since she had practically yelled that all in one breath.

Ken sweat dropped. "Man, so glad we're over here."

"Sheesh, you're telling me." Akira gulped.

"I don't want his affection!" Taryn hissed. She pointed at Hisayo. "I can't help it that she gets all territorial."

"No ands, or buts, or excuses!" Suzume calmly forced the women to put more space between them. "Would you seriously act this way if it were a real mission?! You'd get everyone killed with the way you two always argue. And what about feminine unity?! They're an all boy team and we're the only girls here! And I thought you two were upset with Kakashi anyway, so wouldn't it be better to team up against him on this and take out your frustrations?!"

Kakashi gulped. "Uh, Suzume, you're not leading this down the right path..." Oh dear god! He was so in trouble if they took Suzume's scolding to heart!

Hiro let out a deep sigh. "Guys, can we play the game now? Please?"

"I still need to lay down a few more rules as well." Kinu reminded. 

Hisayo stared her fiery student down. Suzume had determination in her eyes. They soon let up and sparkled when Hisayo turned her head away and gave a small nod. "Fine. For...feminine unity..."

"Thank you sensei!" Suzume then turned her sights to the other woman. "Taryn?"

Taryn rolled her eyes. "Sure."

Yup, he was so toast. Kakashi's head dropped low. "I guess it was great knowing you all."

"Nah, no need to worry." Ken was smirking in confidence. "All we gotta do is immobilize them before they even get a chance to coordinate. Suzume might have gotten them to agree, but they're still friction."

"Hm, didn't think you were the type to take advantage of your teammate's faults." Kakashi raised a brow.

"He's just being jealous." Akira chuckled. "What he really cares about is Suzu—Ouch!" Akira nursed the top of his head. "Hey, no hitting your teammate!"

Kakashi sighed. "Nevermind...we have friction in our group as well."

"On to the rules." Kinu gained everyone's attention. "So we already discussed the first: No excessive use of violence. Second: Jutsu may only be used to obstruct, not to cause harm. Third: No summons will be allowed. Fourth: Be sure not to get any civilians caught in any of your actions taken—we don't need the Hokage wringing our necks here—that reminds me, do not plant your flag in her office or even her building. There would be hell to pay for certain if you did. As for the battle field; the whole village is the battlefield. You can have fifteen minutes to hide your flag, but afterward it cannot be moved by its team once it is placed. Hmm, also, the flag cannot be taken back to its starting place if the opposing team happens to drop or lose it. Ah, and last rule: the game ends at sunset. We don't want to be out all night. The winner is the team that brings their opponent's flag back to this location. If sunset comes and still there is no flag, then the team whose captured flag is the closest to this location is the loser. Got all that?"

Both teams nodded.

Kinu sighed. "Okay. Start!" She watched both teams flicker away. "This is going to be full of drama, isn't it?"

Akio chuckled. "I'd say the drama started a long time ago."

Kinu rubbed at her temples, wondering if it had really been a good idea to take on the role of referee. "This is going to be a headache to ref."

"I'll help. Otherwise I'd be pretty bored. I'll summon up Karasu to also help."

Kinu gave  a thankful smile. "Thank you, Akio."

...

On the training grounds, Suzume's team came to a halt. "So, where are we going to plant our flag?" Hiro asked.

"It won't matter where we place it." Hisayo began. "Kakashi will just sniff it out."

"True, but we have a good nose of our own." Suzume smirked at her sensei.

"Kuro will most likely use genjutsu to hide it," Taryn said puzzled, "we need a strategy." She looked at Suzume. "What kind of barriers can Ken create? He'll probably use those to try and immobilize us. When that happens, one of the others needs to use a jutsu to break it."

Hisayo offered the answer. "Fire, Earth, and Lightning are types he can contain and repel. Also standard melee barriers for any physical attacks. However, he can combine his barriers for added defense."

"Hiro and I can break most of them since we're both water types." Suzume smiled to Hiro. "Right, Hiro-kun? He doesn't have any barriers to guard against water jutsu."

Hiro nodded shyly. "Yeah." He blushed.

"Good," Taryn nodded. She smiled at Naruto. "And you can form the distraction with your shadow clones."

"Haha! Watch out Kakashi-sensei, cause Naruto Uzumaki is on board!"

"After Ken, I think Hatake-san is the one we need to watch out for next." Suzume turned to the next strategy point. "He has the sharingan."

Taryn smirked. "Leave that to me. Sharingan is no problem for me."

"Because you know Uchiha..." Hisayo commented with a hint of dislike and distrust.

Taryn glared at her. "Really? We're going to do this now?"

"I was just stating a fact."

"Well, you both know how to deal with Kakashi so Hiro-kun and I will leave him to you." Suzume quickly quelled the friction. "Next up I'd say is Kuro, since you said he can cast genjutsu. He'll likely be the last defense. I suspect they'd put either Akira or Daro as a secondary defender since they are practically powerhouses with earth jutsu. The other will likely be a scout with Hatake-san for the flag. Ken will either stay behind to defend with Kuro or act a cover for Hatake-san if he finds and tries to take our flag."

"I guess this is the best we can judge for the other team's strategy and how to deal with them." Hisayo said.

"And I know where we can hide our flag!" Naruto grinned from ear to ear. "Ichiraku's!"

"No..."

"Somewhere they won't expect it to be," Taryn mused.

Hiro looked at Suzume. "You three know this village best. Where would be a good place?"

Hisayo lit up just a bit, an idea and realization forming. "Give me the flag. I know where to put it."

"What are you planning?" Taryn hesitantly handed over the flag.

"The one place even Kakashi wouldn't think to look. And his nose wouldn't be of much use either."

"What place is that, sensei?"

"His apartment. I just came from there this morning after dragging him out of bed. If I hide the flag there, then he can't track it there. "

Suzume flushed.

Hisayo flushed now. "No, wait, that's not what I meant. I...he..." She sighed. "Just wait here while I plant it."

Taryn laughed softly when Hisayo left with the flag. No matter how much tension there was between her and Hisayo, the woman was really funny when she was flustered.

...

"Alright," Daro said, "where are we going to plant the flag?"

"Doubt it'd matter much." Ken shrugged. "Hisayo's got a better sense of smell than Hatake-san, and then there is Taryn. She has Byakugan."

"Ah, man, totally forgot about that." Akira sighed. "But even if they can find it really easy, we gotta make then work for it."

"Agreed."

"Kuro can hide it with genjutsu," Daro pointed out.

Kuro nodded. "That's right. I'll need a backup though." He looked at the others. "Your sensei doesn't know us that well. Maybe Daro should stay with the flag as a defender."

"Watch out with sensei." Akira warned, "She's a lightning type."

"Take a few of these too." Ken offered a few marked tags to Daro. "Just channel some chakra into them and toss it in front of you if she gets to rough."

"Thanks," Daro said while accepting the tags.

"Gee, Ken, that's real nice." Akira grinned. "Guess since he isn't the current competition—"

"Shut it Akira."

Kakashi sighed. "Focus please. We still need to figure out where to put the flag and think about where the other's might put their own."

"You can just sniff it out." Akira pointed out.

"I'm not the only hound around you know. I'm sure Ken could track any remnant chakra and narrow down the flag location."

"Taryn-sensei can use lighting too," Kuro said, "though she favors wind."

"She'll most likely use Byakugan though," Daro added. He looked at the sky. "We need to hurry up. Fifteen minutes are almost over." He thought for a moment. "We need to trick your sensei's nose so she won't find our flag so easily."

"Hmm," Ken thought, " the market seems like a good place. There are so many scents she'd have to sift through. It wouldn't stop her, but it'd slow her down. What about Taryn's Byakugan though? How do we get past that?"

"It would be best to just keep her preoccupied." Kakashi said. He soon sighed as all eyes landed on him. "Which I can most probably do if I run into her."

Akira chuckled. "Great, so then there's Suzume, Hiro, and Naruto."

"Hiro is a water user," Daro offered, "not sure about the other two."

"Suzume's pretty much the same as Hiro." Ken said. "And Naruto..."

"He's a goofball, but he can cause some serious trouble if we aren't careful." Akira warned.

"Right," Daro nodded, "time to plant the flag then. If we place it in the market place, like you suggested, Kuro and I will be able to hide there and perhaps we can fool sensei's Byakugan too with so many people around."

"Sounds like a plan." Akira cracked his fingers. "Let's get this show on the road then. You guys handle that and Hatake-san and I'll start up some trouble, hehehe."

Kakashi sighed. "Right, don't get too carried away Akira." Sheesh, it was almost like Naruto was on his team regardless with Akira's personality.

...

Kinu patiently waited as Akio's focus was still elsewhere. She watched as his eye color seemed to bleed away from brown and back to green. He then smiled. "Looks like they're all set up. Now for the interesting part to start. How about you handle the east side of the 'field' and I handle the west? You know how to get Karasu's attention if you need to send any message through him."

Kinu nodded. "Yes, that all sounds like a plan. Let's hope things will run smoothly for everyone."

Akio chuckled sheepishly as he scratched at the back of his neck. "Yes, well, if you see Lady Tsunade, be sure to keep your head low."

"That's common knowledge around here, Akio." The woman had rolled her eyes as she smirked. 

The two then flittered away to take up high posts.

...

Taryn focused as her Byakugan scanned the area. There were so many chakra signatures around that it took a moment to locate the one she was looking for. "Found one," she said through her wireless, "Kakashi is South East of the Hokage's office."

"Any sign of the flag." Suzume's voice came through.

"Not yet," Taryn answered, "Hisayo?"

"I've tracked Akira, but no flag. His position is not far from Kakashi's."

"Naruto, you're closest, so distract him." Suzume ordered. "Hiro and I are still trying to find the others."

"We need to find Ken," Taryn stated. He would be the one most likely appointed to slow them down. They needed to find him if they wanted to bypass him, "I'm going in a little further. You still have me in sight?"

"I see you sensei," Hiro answered. He was located in the roof of a building close to Kakashi's apartment. From there he had a good view of the village and he could keep an eye on their flag that was hidden on the window sill of Kakashi's bedroom.

"For now, Naruto, you 've got the green light." Suzume giggled. "I'll slip past with Hisayo-sensei."

"Alright!" Everyone flinched as the earpiece had blasted. "Shadow Clone Jutsu!"

...

Kakashi and Akira's eyes grew wide when they saw one hundred hyperactive Naruto's coming their way. "Oh no," Kakashi muttered. He knew exactly what the others were planning, but it was to no avail. There were simply too many clones to detect anything else.

Akira chuckled sheepishly. "Told you guys." No way he could compete with Naruto in numbers since he couldn't make nearly as many earth clones to match. No point in wasting chakra that way. "Better watch out guys. Naruto's already started trouble. And I'm pretty sure the others aren't far behind him."

"Got that right." Ken spoke over the wireless. "I'm detecting movement from sensei, Taryn, and Suzume."

"What about Hiro?"

"He's out of my range; not picking up his signature."

...

Taryn jumped down from a building and landed in an abandoned alley. She stayed in a crouch for a moment before slowly getting up. She watched Hisayo and Suzume pass by Kakashi in a blur of Naruto's clones and she smirked.

So far so good.

"Now for the next one," she muttered and she scanned the area again.

"Gotcha!" Akira dropped down from the sky off a building. Taryn hit the dirt. Her body poofed away in the same moment that Akria was hit from behind. "Gyah!" He poofed away in a cloud of smoke. "Heh, figured as much." Akira looked down from his position.

Taryn smirked up at him. "Not bad," she complimented as she looked at him with her activated Byakugan. He was good with clones. He had almost managed to fool her.

"He was only doing his job."

A purple colored barrier rose up around Taryn.

"He drew out the real one for me." Ken smirked as he walked out from his spot. "One down. A few to go before we can take the flag."

Taryn studied the barrier for a while. It was a different one than the one he had used on her on their first encounter. That one had been meant to stop lightning attacks. It was not the one he had used in their short training moment either. So he had learned from that. "Very clever," she said, "you learn fast. But not clever enough." She dropped her Byakugan and focused her chakra into her arm. A small spark of lightning appeared around her hand and she hit the barrier with it.

The purple screen cracked and faded away.

Taryn grinned and was about to jump when a second barrier enabled her movements. She narrowed her eyes annoyed. "Brat," she scoffed, but there was amusement in her eyes.

Ken smirked. "I anticipated something like that, so I went for a second barrier. And I have more if you break away from this one."

"Did you anticipate this too then?" a singing voice rang behind him. Chakra ran down a long whip in one hand, while a blood whip formed in another hand. Suzume spun and assaulted the barrier. It cracked in several places before it finally shattered to pieces.

Taryn grinned. "Who drew out who?" She gave a small salute. "They're all yours." She took the chance to flicker away.

"Gyah, Ken, why didn't you sense her! Now Taryn's got away." Akira dropped down and landed next to Ken.

Suzume giggled. "That what you get for underestimating Naruto and thinking just because you 'saw' us mix in with his clones and slip past, that you didn't have to keep your senses open."

"So those must have been Naruto using a transformation jutsu." Ken shook his head. "Hisayo-sensei will scold me later."

"Yup."

"Uwah!" Akira narrowly dodged a whip. "You were seriously aiming for me!"

"Duh." Suzume easily flicked her whips. "No way am I gonna make it easy for you to get past me. Gotta give sensei enough time to sniff out your flag silly."

Ken smirked. His eyes were lit up in anticipation. "Good luck dealing with us—we know all your tricks."

Suzume smiled sweetly. "Are you sure about that? I know I can't use excessive violent force, but I can still do this!"

A small earth jutsu blocked the whips that had tried to coil around the boys. "Heh, nice try." Akira's confident expression quickly turned to panic as the boulders were sliced to ribbons by the blood whip, giving room for the chakra laced whip to head his way. Ken and Akira leapt away and back on top of the building. "Sheesh, I didn't think she'd really channel chakra AND use Chimeichi against us."

"Your best against her." Ken turned to leave.

"What? You're seriously going to leave me here with her?!"

"She'll break through most of my barriers without breaking a sweat." Ken pointed out. "Besides, I still have to find and immobilize both Taryn and Hisayo-sensei."

Akira gulped. "On second thought, yeah, I'd better stay around here and take Suzume on. Have fun!" Yeah, no way he'd want to duke it out with Hisayo-sensei.

***

Tsunade was working her way through a stack of documents, and a bottle of sake, when she heard the commotion outside. She glanced out of the window and frowned when she saw Ken flash by her window.

Confused, she shook her head and turned back to her work.

The sound of a stampede made her look up again and her eyes widened at seeing a hundred of Naruto's clones dispatched in all directions. 'What the... nevermind, I don't want to know.' She sighed, but before she could turn away again, Akira ran in the opposite direction.

Tsunade leaned out of her window, fully confused now. 'Where...wait... is that... face paint?!' What was going on?

A small explosion echoed from further down the village. 'What is going on?!'

A second later, she saw one of Taryn's students run across a rooftop. The sound of laughter was following behind him.

With a frown on her face, Tsunade turned to the door and walked out of her office. She was going to get to the bottom of this.

"Tsunade-sama..." Shizune called after her, "where are you going? You haven't even finished the..."

The door slammed and Shizune sighed. "Why do I even try?"

***

Taryn laughed when she darted across the rooftops with Ken on her heels. As long as she kept moving, he'd have a hard time trapping her in one of his barriers.

She smirked. This was the most fun she'd had in years.

She jumped down from the roof and darted across one of the busier streets, evading any passerby that crossed her path.

Ken sprinted after her and gasped when he almost collided with Might Guy. He managed to adjust his direction at the last moment. "Sorry!" he called over his shoulder and continued his pursuit of Taryn.

Guy blinked confused and watched him run. A big grin spread across his face. "That's the spirit! The power of youth!"

***

She stomped out the entrance to the building, walked her confident-woman-on-a-mission stride for several meters before leaping up and onto a slightly tall building to view her surroundings. Her eyes locked onto the nearest of people whom she knew was involved. He wasn't paying attention to her approach from behind. "Nakamura." Her intimidating voice made the man whip around in a panic. Not the usual calm response he took, but she could then see why once she got a good look at his face—more accurately, his eyes. "Drop the jutsu you two."

Karasu's eyes faded away and Akio who had full control over his senses leaned away slightly with a sheepish chuckle. "Ah, Lady Tsunade...Isn't this such a lovely coincidence? I had no idea I might run into you today."

"Cut the theatrics." Tsunade's expression was completely unimpressed as she put one hand on her hip and pointed a finger in the direction of the most current confusing actions taking place. "What is going on out here in MY village?"

"Oooh...that..."Akio gave a sheepish close eyed smile as he explained. "Only a friendly game. And look, isn't that nice? Taryn and Hisayo are getting along and working together now." Okay, probably not getting along nicely, but at least they were working together. He ducked his head as he tried to turn away and escape. No doubt the woman wouldn't tolerate him since she was still annoyed and angered over her loss to him from their drinking match prior to the Chuunin Exams.

"Not so fast you sneaky wolf."

"Ouch, I'm a proud 'wolf' you know. I don't sneak."

If there was anyway her unimpressed expression could look anymore unimpressed—it just did. "Right...If you don't give me a thorough explanation for all this madness right now..."

Akio gulped as he gave a nervous chuckle. "Of course. An explanation."

"A thorough one."

"Right..."

"Now, Akio."

"Just thinking of where to begin."

"You mean how to manipulate this situation to your favor..."

"No need to sound so hostile. I was only trying to enjoy this nice weather by watching a few children having fun as they play a simple game!"

Tsunade let out a long, irritated sigh. That man always tested her patience. She couldn't understand how Hisayo was so tolerant of him.

***

"She's almost there."

"Do you really think those tags will work?" Kuro wondered.

"I don't know," Daro answered, "his other barriers do. I guess this isn't much different."

"She's getting closer," Kuro noted, "you remember the plan?"

"Yup," Daro nodded, "I'll get in position." He carefully crawled away from his hiding spot.

"Good luck," Kuro wished. He watched his friend make his way across the square, staying in close proximity to the various boots so he could hide whenever required.

His genjutsu on the flag was still in place, but he know it wouldn't fool his sensei for long. She had a lot of experience with genjutsu and she'd expect something like this. That's why he had made sure to stay well away from the real flag, though he could still keep an eye on its location from where he was sitting.

He jumped when a loud voice boomed behind him.

"Gotcha!" Naruto shouted.

Kuro whipped around surprised. Naruto was grinning widely. "Ha! I found you! Now tell me where the flag is."

"Not a chance," Kuro answered and he lifted his hands. He didn't know what Naruto was capable of, so he was prepared for anything. It would be a bit more difficult to maintain his jutsu on the flag while fighting, but the rest of his team was keeping the others occupied for the moment, so he didn't worry too much. He smirked. "Let's see what you've got."

Naruto grinned. He charged forward with a loud battle cry. "I'm gonna—!" He smacked face first into a transparent blue wall that had risen in front of him. A slow, loud screech sounded as the Genin slid down its side and to the ground. "O-ouch..."

Kuro blinked. Daro drew up beside his teammate with a grin on his face as he inspected his (Ken's) work.

"Huh, well what do you know? They do work."

Kuro shook his head. "I hope you didn't use all of them on him. They're meant for Hisayo-san."

"Don't worry. I only used one. Besides, we need to keep a low profile anyway or they'll find our flag."

Naruto sat up, rubbing his face. "Hey, that's not playing fair. You can't use someone else's trick! Let me out!"

"I can if I was given permission to." Daro stuck out his tongue.

Kuro sweat-dropped. "Way to show your rank, Daro."

"Argh! When I get out of here...!" Naruto proceeded to bang on the walls. It was very un-ninja like.

"This isn't going to help keep a low profile either." Kuro sighed.

Daro chuckled. "Have fun with this one. I have a job to do. See you later when I have the flag."

...

Taryn looked up when she heard a loud voice and a booming sound. That could only mean Naruto. She smirked and changed direction. If Naruto was shouting, it could only mean he had found the remainder of the opposing team.

Just before jumping to the next roof however, she smacked into a transparent wall. "Damn," she grumbled as she assessed the type of barrier this might be. She placed a hand against it to test its strength.

Ken landed on the roof behind her and grinned at her. "Did you really think you'd get away that easily?"

A second figure dropped down on the roof. "Nice tags," Daro said, "you think I can get some to take home?"

Ken glanced at him. "Perhaps," he shrugged, "thanks for laying the trap."

Daro nodded. "No problem. You think you can manage here?"

"She's not going anywhere," Ken commented.

Daro smirked and started running again. "See you later sensei!"

"So you planted a trap huh?" Taryn smirked, "clever thinking. Too bad I anticipated that."

Ken eyed her warily. "What are you talking about?"

"Hiro! Your turn!" Taryn called.

Not a second later, Hiro landed on the other side of the barrier. "Got yourself caged, sensei?" he smirked.

"Get me out of here, will you? I'll let you take on Ken then."

Ken narrowed his eyes at the concept. He still wasn't sure how he felt about Hiro. Perhaps a little bout would get it out of his system. 'Let's see how Suzu will like you then huh, after I beat you.'

Hiro grinned and formed a few seals. "Water Style: Razor blades."

Taryn moved to the side as a few sharp water blades shattered the barrier that kept her trapped. "Thanks," she smiled and looked at Ken. "Not a bad effort though. Good luck." She jumped to the ground to find Naruto. "Suzume," she said through her wireless, "Daro is headed your direction."

...

"Noted!" Suzume leapt up and out of the way of another of Akira's attempts to immobilize her.

"Man, stop moving around so fast." Akira whined as he tried again.

"Need some help?"

Akira grinned as he heard a familiar voice through his wireless. "Not a party unless more join in—Uwah!" He slipped and fell on his side. His arms and legs had been wrapped by a chakra-less whip.

"Don't get distracted just because you're fighting me." Suzume stuck out her tongue and giggled as she took out a roll of wire, ready to secure Akira and head off to aid the others.

"That goes for you too," Daro smirked. He formed some hand seals. "Earth Style: Spike cage!" Small spikes broke through the ground's surface and trapped Suzume on the spot. He landed next to Akira and smirked. "Finally I get the chance to spar with one of you."

Suzume let out a small chuckle. "I'm excited too, Daro-kun." She gave a slight flick of her wrist and the blood whip in her right hand slashed through the earth. She patiently waited as she both let the earth finish falling around her and sized up her two opponents that were now both standing at the ready. "I might have been going easy on Akira, but don't think I'll be as nice with you. I know what you're capable of."

"Hey!" Akira's pride had been hit. "I'm just as dangerous as Daro. I'm the senior here."

Suzume giggled. "Except you weren't taking me seriously either."

Akira flinched and turned a bit red in embarrassment. "Yeah, guess you're right." He admitted, but he soon grinned. "Guess we'll both have to now."

Suzume flicked both her wrists just enough to show off a little weapons play with her whips as she smirked. "Good luck."

Daro eyed the blood whip cautiously. "What's that jutsu?" he asked Akira, "I've never seen it before."

"Oh, right. I forgot." Akira gave a slightly sheepish chuckle. "Suzume's part of a clan that can manipulate and use their blood as a weapon. She can slice through objects or harden her blood to block attacks." Daro cringed at the thought of being sliced through. "Ah, but don't worry. Since this is a game she won't try to slice through us...uh...right? Suzume?"

Suzume smiled sweetly. "We'll see." She couldn't help but toy with them a bit. It was too her advantage if they grew nervous.

"Aha,ha,ha...." Akira scratched the back of his head. "She's...just playing. I think..." he grew serious once more. "But that's not the only think to watch out for. She can channel chakra through that black whip. Watch out for the barbs too. They can sting pretty good if you're clipped by them."

The whip he could deal with. Kuro wielded a chain that worked pretty much the same way. He had learned to evade those kind of weapons. The blood thing however, was something completely different. "Does it work like water based jutsu?" he asked, his mind already trying to come up with a strategy. He held his eyes on Suzume in case she was going to attack again.

"Yeah." Akira also kept an eye on his teammate. "And don't forget she's a medic too. So she'd know exactly where to land hits to knock us out, but she'd have to catch us first." Akira grinned.

Daro grinned as well. An idea began forming in his head, but he'd have to be fast. And hope that Akira would catch on. He lifted his hands again. "Earth Style: Earth dome!" The ground started shaking and rose up around Suzume, trapping her inside the small dome.

Suzume rolled her eyes and sighed. "So easy it's sad." She lifted the hand with her blood whip and pushed her chakra into it more to make it solid and sharp. The scarlet colored whip then twisted around her and sliced through the dome with ease. She stepped out of the way from any falling earth and cautiously waited for the dust to settle. She guessed that they would have only done such a thing to her to buy time to coordinate.

When the dust settled, there weren't two boys in the alley, there were three.

Hiro was standing in front of Daro and looked at Suzume wide-eyed. "So cool," he breathed.

Suzume blushed slightly, dumbfounded. "Hiro-kun? I thought you went with Taryn? And watch out! Daro's behind you!"

"Gah!" Hiro yelped and he quickly moved to Suzume's side. "I-I came to help you..." A blush spread across his face.

"Oh! Hiro-kun, that's so sweet of you." Suzume's sweet smile was on her face now. "Watch out for Akira too. Okay? He's here somewhere."

The ground below their feet cracked. Both Hiro's and Suzume's eyes went wide. They both leapt back as Akira shot up and out of the ground.  Now they were caught in between Daro and Akira. Hiro and Suzume drew to be back to back.

"You know Daro best, Hiro-kun, so watch for him. I'll look out for Akira. Back each other up where we can."

"Got it...but, Suzu-chan...?"

Suzume's face blushed at the sudden shortening and suffix. "W-what is it Hiro-kun?"

Hiro turned to her with hollow eyes. His face changed shape and he smirked. "Gotcha." A second later, he turned into a pile of debris.

Suzume's eyes widened. Daro made a move towards her and she turned fully to face him. She had been too distracted by the fake that she hadn't noticed his movements. She was about to flick her wrist to force him to draw back, when she was hit from behind. 

Akira let out a groan as soon as he caught his teammate after having dealt a solid chop to knock her out. "Aw man...I hope Ken doesn't get mad with me over this."

Daro chuckled. "Forget how Ken will feel about this, I don't wanna be anywhere near you when she wakes up."

Akira groaned even more at the revelation.

"Don't worry about it now though," Daro patted his back, "we have a flag to find."

Akira sighed. "Yeah. We should find somewhere to put her. Civilians might freak out if they come across her in the middle of the street."

Daro looked around until his eyes landed on a park bench. "How about there? She could be just sleeping for all they know."

Akira agreed. He hoped she wouldn't be too upset with them later since they were nice enough to not leave her in the middle of the street.

***

Kakashi hid a smirk when he sensed her approach. He knew it wouldn't take very long for her to track him. He had anticipated that both women had probably decided to let their students work things out on their own while they would target him. It was only a matter of which one of them would find him first.

Black sandals approached calmly. She knew he would have sensed her approach. There was no point in trying to hide. She inwardly smirked. He was nowhere near her team's flag. "Having trouble finding our flag? Heh, you won't find it so easily."

Kakashi shrugged lazily. "That's the point of the game, isn't it? Besides, the kids are the ones with the scouting job." He didn't even look up from the novel he was reading.

Hisayo obviously didn't look impressed with Kakashi. Her eyes narrowed as she slowly unsheathed a single blade and turned it over to the dull side. "Then I guess you know what my job is?"

"I sure do," Kakashi said amused, "too bad I don't have time to stand around and play." He closed his book and after a single seal, he flickered away from the scene.

A low growl sounded from the woman at Kakashi's dodgy move. "Don't think you can get away so easily Hatake." She also flickered away as she put her nose to use again.

***

Kuro was fiercely destroying every clone Naruto had produced. He had a frustrated look on his face. There seemed to be no end to it. Perhaps it was time for a new tactic. After destroying the next row of clones, he quickly cast a genjutsu to try and trick Naruto.

"Hey, where'd he go?" Several of the clones exclaimed.

Kuro had seemed to vanish, but they didn't realize he was still there in front of them.

"Quick, find him!"

"Yeah, find him!"

"Wait! What about me?" The real Naruto yelled from inside the barrier. "Help me get out first!"

Several clones tried breaking through the barrier, while others kept looking high and low in the area for Kuro.

Taryn sweat-dropped as she arrived at the scene. It was a complete chaos, not to mention Naruto would attract attention. She sighed and drew a kunai dagger laced with wind chakra. "Move," she told Naruto's clones. They looked at her and hurried out of the way of the weapon as it tore through the barrier.

The moment Naruto was free, she pressed a hand against his shoulder to disrupt his chakra, thus breaking the genjutsu that held him.

"Wha...? Taryn, when did you get here? I was just looking for Kuro! Gyah, and I've been stuck in a barrier too!" Naruto looked around quizzically in his foxy-eyed fashion.

"Sensei," Kuro said.

She nodded at him. "Naruto," she said, "Kuro is a genjutsu expert. Take a care when you fight him, alright? He'll try to trick you again."

The boy growled in frustration. "But I'm not good with genjutsu."

Taryn smiled. "You'll be fine, Naruto. Just don't give him the chance to cast one again. Keep him occupied. You have enough chakra. Any sign of the flag yet?"

"I thought I saw it earlier when I found Kuro and Daro, but I guess that was just another genjutsu too." Naruto frowned. "Sorry."

"Where did you see it?" Taryn asked, "I'll go check it out."

"There." Naruto pointed in the direction of the market just ahead.

Taryn smirked. If they had wanted to hide the flag from Hisayo's sensitive nose, the market would be ideal. It was worth at least checking out. "Good job Naruto," she grinned, "I'll let you take care of Kuro. I know you can do it."

...

Kinu calmly scanned the village. She took note of the areas she had heard the game activities. By the sounds of it, Naruto and Kuro were the closest, followed by Ken and Hiro. She wasn't near anyone else, but assumed Akio would be the closest to the others. It appeared that no one was going overboard.

'A good thing.'

She'd rather not have to enforce any rules. She suspected that she'd have to in the near future if three people in particular came together and duked it out. She sighed. For adults, the drama sure ran thicker for that trio.

...

"Water Style: Water Dragon!" Hiro's dragons rose higher and lashed out at his opponent.

Ken cringed as he saw the jutsu slam into the side of a tree, splashing out and against several buildings after her had dodged. "Hey, take it easy with the buildings!" he warned as he drew on a few tags and threw them at his opponent. He knew they wouldn't do much to contain Hiro, but at least they could be used to distract the Suna boy.

"It's just a little water," Hiro answered, trying to avoid the tags thrown at him. He weaved a few signs. A mist slowly rose up and started to conceal him from Ken's vision.

Ken found himself growing annoyed. It irritated him enough already that Hiro was a person of interest to Suzume with all her fawning. The kid was really pushing it with his lack of consideration of his village. He smirked as he saw Hiro disappear in the mist. He thought he could hide from him and sneak up on him? Boy would Hiro be disappointed and surprised. 

He took in a calm breath of air and focused. After a short moment, he gave a confident smirk and threw several barrier tags into the mist.

"Gah!" Hiro gasped when he was being constricted by Ken's tags. The mist slowly died down until it was confined with him in a barrier. The mist clung to the side of the barrier and blocked his own vision, so he quickly dissipated the jutsu and glared at Ken. "You won't win so easily," he said and he gathered his chakra. "Water Style: Razor blades!"

Ken calmly watched as his barrier was easily dispatched. He casually drew on a single kunai and grinned. "We'll see about that." He let his kunai fly in a direction that was seemingly random.

Hiro's ears caught the sound of a wire snapping, following by several kunai flying threw the air at him. He braced himself. They hit the ground all around him. It was then that he realized they had tags attached to them all. There must have been two dozen of tagged kunai. They all glowed purple; and that same purple glow shot upwards.

"Heh, try breaking out of those." Ken folded his arms with a smirk as he admired his Six Level Barrier.

Hiro studied the barriers for a moment to try and figure out what was different from before. Sensei had always said to be careful in unfamiliar situations. Even if this was just a friendly spar, he knew he needed to be cautious. He focused his chakra. "Water Style: Razor blades!" 

The barrier cracked and crumbled to pieces. Hiro smirked. "You know I can just break through."

"Sure you can..." Ken continued to smirk as he waited for further action to be taken by Hiro.

Hiro narrowed his eyes. Was Ken mocking him? He performed the same jutsu again on the next barrier. A crack appeared, but it didn't break. Hiro frowned and tried again. This time, it gave way.

Hiro glared at it annoyed.

"Good job," Ken gave a mocking clap. "You broke two. Four more to go."

"Stop making fun of me!" Hiro shouted. He threw his jutsu in again. "Razor blades!" His jutsu bounced back against the barrier wall and Hiro had to duck to avoid getting hit. He gasped. Why didn't the barrier break?

Ken cocked his head to the side. "Well what do you know. Guess that one is...stronger." Ken turned on his heels to leave. "Looks like you'll be stuck for a while trying to break free. Have fun with that Hiro."

Hiro glared at him "Hey! You can't just leave me here! Hey! Come back!"

***

Taryn jumped from the rooftop and landed in Kakashi's path. She smirked at him. "Now where are you running off to?"

Kakashi still had his book in hand. He casually flipped a page. "I figured it wouldn't take long." He commented to himself. "Dodge one only to run into the next."

"Nice to see you're all casual about it," Taryn said sarcastically, "are you actually going to do anything or just stand there reading that stupid smut?"

"I am in fact doing my part." Kakashi spared Taryn a glance. "It's just taking me awhile is all. Thought I'd enjoy a bit of reading while I was at it."

Taryn narrowed her eyes. "What is that supposed to mean?" 

Kakashi gave a closed eye smile. "If you don't know, then all the more advantage to me." He carefully, yet casually prepared himself to get away. He was sure Hisayo was close to finding him once more and he'd rather not take either of the women on at the same time if he could possibly avoid it. Hisayo, he was sure, was irritated enough with him. Adding Taryn into the mix would only seal his own defeat. A bit dramatic, but he would be all the same outnumbered.

"Ah Kakashi! There you are! And with such lovely company! Tell me what youthful game you are playing!" Guy appeared around the corner and grinned wickedly at the sight of Kakashi and Taryn.

Kakashi hid the cringe at Guy's untimely arrival. "Uh...Guy...Now might not be the best of times to explain."

"Nonsense!" Guy slapped his shoulder, "no time like the present." He smirked. "It must involve Taryn." He winked at her. "I've seen you running around town. A scavenger hunt perhaps?"

"Sort of." Kakashi sighed as he saw the irritated expression on Taryn's face at her mention. "So you see we're kind of in a hurry. Think you could come back later?"

Guy fake cried. "You hurt my feelings! You're planning a scavenger hunt and you haven't even invited me?! How cruel of you Kakashi to rob me of another chance to beat you!"

Taryn smirked. "Yes Kakashi, how cruel of you."

"Trust me Guy, you don't want to be involved. Hisa—" He didn't even get a chance to finish explaining. The very woman he was just about to mention skid onto the scene in the distance. There was a twinkle of determination and irritation in her gold eyes as she quickly gained ground on the trio.

"Hatake..." She spoke in a low cold tone.

"As I was saying," Kakashi gave a sheepish smile as a nervous sweat-drop presented itself over his temple. "Hisayo is deeply involved."

Guy flinched and followed Kakashi's look. "Eheh," he gulped and he scratched his neck. "I'm afraid I forgot I have made a promise of youth somewhere else already." He made a run for it. "I'm afraid I must challenge you some other time!" he called over his shoulder.

Taryn blinked confused. "What is his problem?"

"Long story." Kakashi let out a nervous chuckle now as he tried to make himself scares once more. "If you'll excuse me..."

"Nice try," Taryn smirked and took out her fan.

Kakashi sighed. "It was worth a shot." He wisely put his book away. No doubt in his mind that he wouldn't have any time to read anymore.

Hisayo rushed past Taryn, her blade drawn and turned down. It made contact with a kunai Kakashi had drawn. In mid action of his block, her other hand reached around and drew on her second blade. She twisted around behind him and targeted his back. In the same moment, she also turned her blade to the blunt side. "You aren't getting our flag." She calmly announced.

Taryn raised an eyebrow and cleared her throat. "You like a dramatic arrival, don't you?" But there was amusement in her voice. So that was what Kakashi was going on about. She smirked.

Kakashi in the meanwhile, had caught Hisayo's wrist as he avoided the assault from behind. He dropped his kunai and grabbed her other wrist as well. The two were standing squared on their feet, fighting for ground. Hisayo's eyes narrowed as she sent a small wave of electricity down her arms and to her blades. Kakashi wisely released her and leapt back to gain a safe distance. 

"This may be a game," Hisayo answered Taryn, "but the objective is serious all the same—and Kakashi isn't to be underestimated."

Kakashi breathed a sigh of relieve as he watched Hisayo's blades discharge. "True it's a game, but Kinu said no excessive violence."

"Don't be so dramatic." Hisayo rolled her eyes. "I purposely held the charge back so it would only stun you."

Taryn rolled her eyes. "I know very well what he's capable of. I was about to take him on you know, before your dramatic entrance. But since you're here..." She grinned and walked up to Hisayo. "Distract him for me, will you?" she whispered in a conspiring tone.

Hisayo's brow rose slightly in curiosity and confusion. "What?" She was already doing that wasn't she?

"Like this," Taryn said and she whispered something in Hisayo's ear. She smirked. This was going to be fun. And she could get back at Kakashi at the same time.

"Flirt..." It wasn't a question, but a seemingly clueless response that drew Taryn's curiosity.

She didn't know how to flirt? Taryn eyed her oddly. She sighed. Just her luck. Like she was a pro herself. How was she going to explain this one? And fast at it, because any second now, Kakashi would decide this was the time to make his great escape.

She sighed. 'Here goes nothing.' She leaned in and whispered a few words.

Meanwhile, Kakashi cautiously looked on. He was very wary of the two as Taryn began to whisper to Hisayo. What were they up to?

Hisayo blinked with a flat expression. "I will try...flirting," she agreed.

Kakashi looked like a rabbit about to bolt, but was still uncertain as he saw Hisayo approach while calmly re-sheathing her blades. "Uh...Hisayo....?" What was she doing?

Hisayo stopped within inches of Kakashi. With her face dusted with a bit of pink, she spoke with uncertainty. "K-Kakashi...kun...will you...will you go on a date...with me after this?" She added a few bats of her lashes, just as Taryn had hastily instructed her.

Kakashi was utterly speechless and confused. His onyx eye was wide in disbelief as he looked down at Hisayo. He could feel a bit of heat crawling up his face. He had never heard her speak his name with that suffix before, let alone bat her eyelashes at him in that manner before. Forget that she sounded and even looked awkward in her actions. He barely noticed that detail. 

He stumbled for a response. "I...I..."

Meanwhile Taryn was biting the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing. A small wheezing sound however still escaped her and she hurried away from the scene before she would get noticed. No matter how clueless Hisayo may be in the love department, it certainly had its effect on Kakashi. His expression had been priceless, and it had given her the perfect means of escape. Now onwards to finding the flag. Naruto had said he had seen it around the market place, so that was where she would go.

And she would have to be fast, because once Kakashi had realized he had been set up, there would be hell to pay.

To be continued...