ChromeHound

Attack on Titan: Corruption and Oppression

I would vote against that. All of the slowness from our squad is due to my being busy IRL, which caused you guys to have to wait for me, so for that I apologize, and I will be a lot more available after Christmas. I am not sure about the others, and the other squads, but I at least know that ours was moving along at a good pace until I held us up.

If, however, people would prefer to skip to the graduation, then I will of course not rally against that. Just please know that my first preference would be to continue with the training, to better develop the characters and their relationships with one another.

Attack on Titan: Corruption and Oppression

Samuel Drake - Squad 17

Riding up alongside his teammates, Samuel stayed slightly to the side, still hesitant around them. He did not respond when Terry asked him if he had spoken, it seemed like they had all gotten the point anyways. Listening closely as the girl spoke, Samuel kept his gaze on the rock formation. The instructors were too far away to make out anything in great detail, but the whole thing seemed off somehow...

His eyes widening slightly at Terry's suggestion, Samuel turned back to face her. Thinking about it for a moment, he realized that it was actually quite a good idea. Splitting up meant that there would be less risk of all of them being caught in a trap, but it also meant that whoever went to scout would be putting themselves at risk instead. All in all, it didn't really sound like a situation he wanted to be in. But then again... glancing over at the other two members in his squad, Samuel thought about what it would be like to be stuck, alone, with either of them.

Joseph seemed quiet enough, and like the kind of person who wouldn't try and start up a personal conversation. He also seemed, however, like the kind of person who would volunteer for such a scouting mission, which would leave Samuel alone with Terry... While he still didn't know much about either of his teammates, Samuel didn't doubt that the girl would attempt to start up a friendly conversation the instant Joseph went ahead. That left him with two options, he could volunteer to scout ahead, or... he could stay and be forced into a frightening personal conversation.

Gripping the reins of his horse tightly, Samuel chose the lesser of two evils, and began walking his horse forwards, towards the rock formation.

Attack on Titan: Corruption and Oppression

Samuel Drake - Squad 17

As he noticed their destination nearing Samuel looked up, just in time to catch Terry staring at him once again, a strange grin on her face. A small flush of self-consciousness travelled through him as he realized that she had caught him riding the way she had advised. Not sure how to react, Samuel simply met her gaze, a curious look on his face. He was saved from replying when Joseph called out and Terry turned away. Shaking his head for a moment, Samuel stared up at the rock formations ahead of them. A strange sense of dread filled him, and he shifted the horse's pace so that it was travelling slower. He caught Terry's question and looked up to see the strange mechanism's that she had been referring too. Samuel wasn't sure what they were, but his instincts were telling him to be cautious. His knack for predicting danger had saved his life many times when he was younger, and he intended to trust it now. "Careful." He spoke quietly, not even sure if the others would be able to hear him.

Naruto : The Rise of The New Generations

Getting awakened,
Getting information,
Had some sort of medicine.

A collab between Chromehound and Gerontis.

Summary :
Shikaroku wakes up and has a chat with Hiron about the last match and what may happen later. Then they hear of the announcement and Hiron answers a very important question of Shikaroku. Fun times!

Hiron

''Took you long.'' Hiron said with a more or less a neutral tone. One that would even make one that knew him for quite some time wonder if he was disappointed, mad or content. Sitting on a chair, the man was reading a small book. Throwing a glance sideways, at one of his students that was laying on a bed, Hiron returned his attention back to the small book. ''Was wondering how long it would take before you would be awake again. You worried the medics quite, you know? Having no visible injuries and yet kind of collapsing.'' Turning a page, Hiron almost barely nodded. ''Very... bothersome.''

Reaching up with one hand, Shikaroku pinched the bridge of his nose, trying to remember what had happened. Pushing himself up into a sitting position, Shikaroku leaned forwards. He could still feel a dull throbbing in his temples, and tried to massage them briefly to lessen the sensation. Hiron's words made their way through to him and suddenly everything came crashing back. His eyes widened and he leaned over his knees, dry heaving. As the panic attack subsided, Shikaroku managed to bring his breathing back under control. "My opponent... sensei... did he...?" Unable to finish his sentence, Shikaroku turned his head towards Hiron, his eyes pleading.

Hiron seemed to keep reading his book, but after a moment or two, he replied with a calm tone back to Shikaroku. ''As dead as a doornail.'' After the phrase, Hiron turned another page as it didn't bother him in the slightest. ''Another reason why I am here and not a shadow clone. Though incidents like this can happen, you wouldn't believe what kind of consquences it can bring. Perhaps some team member would like to claim your life?'' Hiron briefly looked at the door, frowning as he continued to think out loud. ''Or perhaps an angry parent that wants to avenge their fallen child? Very problematic, very bothersome.'' Hiron mumbled the last few words as he lowered his head and continued to read the small book.

Everything went numb as soon as Hiron confirmed that the other boy was dead. The world around him seemed to dim, and it felt as if he was listening to Hiron from under water. Slowly, Shikaroku began rocking back and forth. Clutching his head in his hands, the boy was lost. "Why... why didn't they stop it..." The question wasn't really meant for anyone in particular, and Shikaroku wasn't even aware that he had spoken out loud.

The question made Hiron sigh as he then shook his head, closing his eyes as if the question was a dumb one. ''Why not?'' Hiron asked back before he would close the book with his right hand and frowned at Shikaroku. ''You're not going to tell me you didn't see it, right? I even saw it and I don't have any pesky irritating dojutsu that makes me see every small insect that decides to crawl over a piece of dirt. The boy was already dead when he entered the field. Everybody who has trained genin for years and pay attention to how one walks and acts could easily figure this one out.'' Hiron paused. He knew that Shikaroku wouldn't like to be treaten like this. He wanted to hear probably something comforting. Something to ease the pain and probably the guilt of knowing that he would be seen as the one who delivered the killing blow. Yes, it was sad that he had to experience it as Hiron hadn't prepared him for it. He had half expected Shikaroku to actually fail his match. No, he had hoped for it. That it would be a good motivator for him to try to train even harder. Yet, that it would go like this? He hadn't expected anything like this.

''The referee is supposed to step in when they are needed. Truth be told, I think that everybody was a bit surprised that you managed to end the match that soon and intercepting the attack would be... unfair. In a real fight there is no referee who will seperate you from your enemy. It is either kill or be killed in most situations.'' Hiron explained as he glanced at the door again.

"This wasn't supposed to be like that!" Shikroku suddenly shouted. Surprising himself as he turned towards Hiron with a hardened gaze. "You told me this was supposed to be safe! That nobody was supposed to... to end up like this!" His head throbbing again, Shikaroku pressed both hands against his head, turning away. Bringing himself back down to a more controlled level, he spoke quietly. "Why would he come out to fight like that... if he... if he wanted to die?" Shaking his head again, Shikaroku was fighting to retain control.

''Who knows?'' Hiron calmly responded. His right hand trembled but he didn't slam the book in Shikaroku's face when the latter had shouted. He simply sighed and looked sideways at his student. ''And yes, I had told you that. But you should always know that there are risks. Factors that can spell trouble. I would have jumped in and try to fend off if you were in the boy's situation.'' Hiron's tone became somewhat stern. ''And though I have asked myself why that poor sod was allowed to fight, sobbing won't help. I can understand that this won't feel like a victory, but you better get used to it, Shikaroku.'' Hiron looked at the small book. The rather ominous title of ''A grim death'' was a novel that was about a shinobi that had tried to become great, but eventually died. He had died because he wasn't able to accept several things, which lead to his downfall eventually. Flipping the book, Hiron placed it on the bed, near Shikaroku. ''Right now, troubling yourself and beating yourself up won't do you any good. You have won, fair and square. Get that in your head. Cause while it won't feel like a sweet victory, it won't be anything else out in the field.'' Hiron paused as he thought about his word choice. He didn't want to push Shikaroku too much. And some things could be a bit too early, but would there be any time better than now?

''The time of when you will need to kill others to protect your comrades and country will be there soon. And while I can try to prepare you for it, lets be honest. There are only a few who can kill without remorse. And like me, you can't kill without question yourself if you should be feeling proud or guilty for ending a life.'' Hiron kept his gaze on the Nara, a rather stern one before he leaned a bit back. ''So, congratulations on your first kill.'' Hiron said with a grim tone.

Looking down at the sheets on his bed, Shikaroku wanted to be sick. This whole situation was not what he had expected. Somewhere, in the back of his mind, he knew Hiron was right. That didn't mean he had to like it though. Shaking his head slowly, he couldn't look at his sensei... not right now. "I... I am sorry Hiron. I've let you down yet again..." The words felt hollow, and Shikaroku wasn't even sure if he meant them, or if he was just trying to pacify both Hiron and himself. "What am I supposed to do now...?" He asked quietly. "How am I supposed to go back out there and face everyone. They treat me like a killer... like... like I wanted this..."

He didn't know if Hiron had the answers, truth be told, they weren't really fair questions, and Shikaroku knew that. But in that moment he didn't care.

Sighing out loud again, Hiron crossed his arms as he glanced at the ceiling. Genin and their endless supply of questions. But he wouldn't start to grumble about that right now. Not only had Shikaroku won his match and thus earned himself some peace from Hiron's grumbling, but he also had experienced something that wasn't easy to accept. ''You didn't really let me down, kid.'' Hiron said, thinking about something. It was hard to just be straight and honest with the boy as well trying to not be too blunt with him now. That could backfire and cause the boy to complain, shout, growing angry or worse. Cry. ''In fact, I was hoping you would suffer a defeat. It would have been a quite valuable lesson, though I can't deny that this one can serve quite a purpose as well.''

Then he shrugged, like he was simply dismissing the fact that he had told Shikaroku a moment ago that this could be taken as a lesson. That the death wasn't that serious or much of a problem. But truth be told, Hiron saw no value in the life or death of Shikaroku's opponent. ''As for the people let them talk. It were mostly those who just saw what they wanted to see. I bet that there are people out there who don't think you tried to kill your opponent on purpose. Every capable sensei with a pair of working eyes have seen that you just did your best and that your opponent wasn't near being ready for the exams. Or in any state to fight.''

Leaning back, Shikaroku let himself fall back against the pillows. Staring up towards the ceiling, he sighed. The logical part of his brain had started to take over, more as a defense mechanism than anything really, but it still bothered him that he was now thinking of things in more of a detached way, without emotion. Hiron was right, and Shikaroku could not deny that. Much as he may have wanted to.

For now, he would restrain his emotions. A proper shinobi did not show them, as they could be a weakness. Taking a moment to gather himself, Shikaroku sat up again and turned to Hiron, any sign of his prior feelings vanished. Save for the slightest hint of darkness in his eyes. "How did Masami-san's match go? Did she do well?"

Glad to see that Shikaroku seemed a bit calmer, Hiron was briefly wondering what went through the mind of the boy. In his own opinion, he could understand if the boy wouldn't accept the words and that was just fine. Perhaps it was a bit too early and it wasn't like Hiron thought that Shikaroku was running short on time. But this was one of those fundamental lessons. If he would start to become somebody who would swear to never kill again, then Hiron would lose his respect for the boy. And probably drop him as a student. Such weak attitude wouldn't be accepted in his team. ''She is fine.'' Hiron looked at the door again, but he didn't seem nervous. He frowned. ''Her match went a bit more exciting, because her opponent was quite tenacious. But nothing less expected from one that hails from the Inuzuka clan. They are quite known for their fierce shinobi.'' Hiron then looked back at Shikaroku. ''But she won as well.''

Nodding his head, Shikaroku looked away. "Good." It was all he said for a long moment. Turning back to look at the book Hiron had left on the bed, he almost laughed at the irony of the title. Locking eyes with his sensei once again, Shikaroku spoke. "Does this mean that we are both participants in the second round then?" His tone remained entirely neutral, no trace of emotion left.

''Unless you get your throat sliced before the rounds start, yes.'' Hiron calmly replied to Shikaroku. He cocked his head a bit to the right as his eyes then moved to the door. ''Cause I wasn't joking. I suspect that I might be a bit too cautious at the moment, but I rather stay and prevent somebody from getting any funny ideas. Not that I think the Raikage would allow any of his subjects try to maim at you or as much touch you. That would cause a lot of political problems and then result in all kind of chaotic events. Quite problematic, you see.'' Hiron slowly grinned. ''Though now you're in the rounds with the real veterans, I suppose.''

"Heh." Shikaroku laughed humourously. "Then I suppose I had better bring everything that I've got." He glanced quickly to the hospital gown he was wearing, a look of distaste upon his face. "When can I leave here?" The question made Hiron shrug. ''You haven't suffered any injuries. I however thought this would be more comfortable than a hotel or such. The more people around the less I need to worry that somebody will try to muster some gut and then try to beat you up or worse.'' Hiron answered. He thought about it and then sighed as he brought up his right hand to his neck. Though he wouldn't admit it, he felt a bit odd. Without a bandanna, his short dark brown hair was ruffled a bit as Hiron scratched his neck and moved his hand up to the back of his head.

''But for now take it a bit easy. This might be a better place to stay for the moment than many other places, I imagine.'' Leaning back as far as he could, Hiron placed both his hands at the back of his head, trying to make it himself comfortable.

Once again, Shikaroku found it difficult to argue with Hiron's logic. "Can I at least get changed back into my regular clothes?" He asked, after a long pause. A chuckle was heard and soon followed up by Hiron answering the question. ''I wouldn't mind it. Just take care to not try to throw a kunai at me, okay?'' Hiron closed his eyes as he leaned back with the chair, leaning against the wall.

Getting up from the bed, Shikaroku felt a sharp pain at Hiron's jest. Ignoring it, he moved over to where his clothes had been simply thrown haphazardly onto a chair. Wondering for a brief moment who had changed him, Shikaroku threw one worried glance towards his sensei, shuddering at the thought. Withdrawing his clothes from the chair, Shikaroku quickly dressed before turning back to face the jounin. "So what now?"

''We wait.'' Hiron said, his eyes still closed as he didn't move. ''For now I suspect that you will have a bad name. Not a really infamous one as it is just a kill. A nobody, I suspose. Won't get you any infamy for killing another genin. Would be different if you would end up killing each opponent however. Now that would be quite interesting.'' Hiron calmly stated. Pausing, he opened his left eye half. ''For now, rest out a bit more. You will need every moment to get your calm and cool back. I predict the next round will take a hell lot more than what I have been preparing you for.''

Slowly, he nodded. Walking back over to the bed, Shikaroku sat down, leaning against the wall. Letting out a quiet sigh, he rubbed his temples. Hiding like this... it didn't feel right, but he couldn't do much to change that. Sitting up straight, Shikaroku steepled his fingers and rested his chin on them. All he could do for the meantime was sit and prepare. Unless...

Lifting his gaze to meet Hiron's, Shikaroku's eyes had a strange glint to them. "I don't suppose you'd fancy a game of Shogi while we wait?"

''I don't see any harm in that.'' Hiron responded. Still having the chair leaning against the wall, he made the sign to produce a shadow clone, who would exit the room. Closing the door behind, Hiron's shadow clone would try to find a place where it would be able to fetch them the board game. ''By the way, that tactic of yours was quite nice. I would recommend to use another one in the coming fight, to be sure that your opponent will be less prepared though.'' Hiron said as he closed his eyes again, his hands moving to the back of his head.

Relieved that they would have something to do to pass the time, Shikaroku leaned back again, considering Hiron's words. "Thank you sensei." He said after a short time. "To tell you the truth, I hadn't used that technique expecting it to work. I had a more extensive plan but..." His thoughts travelling back to the match, Shikaroku couldn't continue. Every detail had been brutally, and cruelly, etched into his mind as if to punish him. The memory was going to haunt him for a long time, but Hiron was right, and right now Shikaroku had to somehow put it aside... at least for the time being.

"Do you think I could end up fighting Masami-san?" He asked quietly, a hint of concern in his voice.

''The chance on that is quite big.'' Hiron told back as he thought about it. He could keep information he had heard and learned for himself, in order to not demotivate Shikaroku. In order to make sure that Shikaroku wouldn't be already more nervous than he could be right now. Then again. ''Right now most of the genin who passed to the next round are quite some fighters. Masami isn't going to be your only concern. I can tell you several names of people who have passed and what I have been able to learn about them. Or what I know already of them.'' Hiron said, deciding to lay the decision in Shikaroku's hands.

Thinking for a long moment, Shikaroku realized what Hiron was really asking. He wasn't sure he was ready to hear just how skilled his opponents were going to be, but... he was going to need every advantage he could possibly get if he was to have even the slightest chance.

A sudden thought occurred to him and he tilted his head as he looked up at his sensei. "Would... would it be considered cheating if I went into the fight with information about my potential opponents?" The question made Hiron open his eyes and glance at Shikaroku with a frown. ''A shinobi is bound to follow the rules, that is a common thing. If a shinobi doesn't follow the rules and honor them, he is nothing but scum.'' The tone was a bit harsh, but then Hiron grinned slowly. ''But remember that the best shinobi fight like they are scum. And if nobody catches you on breaking a rule or two, who would be able to call you scum? A shinobi fights diry, kid. There is no way of cheating if nobody catches you on it.''

Grinning at Hiron's words, despite how grim he still felt, Shikaroku made his decision. "Well then, Hiron-sensei... What do I need to know?" Slowly pushing off the wall, Hiron made the chair he sat on stand on all his four legs. Leaning a bit forward, Hiron glanced at the door as he was thinking about the information he had learned. It was in some cases quite easily. People talked about a match for some time, after one had ended. From such talk one could simply see what information could be useful and what not. Besides, it wasn't like he had spent all his time sitting next to Shikaroku while he was being inspected for any injury.

''You know about Masami and I think that I need to say little about her.'' Hiron started, thinking about another name. ''I have heard some talk when I walked around about that a girl from Kumogakure won her match. Using two swords and lightning release. Couldn't gather anything special about her, other than that she had defeated what some said that her opponent was a troublemaker. Reyna was her name, but I couldn't catch her surname.'' Deciding to move to the next, he thought about another match. ''There was also a draw. Which is quite interesting as those don't often happen at exams. Means you either fight a kind that uses some tricky water release. Also the son of an infamous bastard. His surname was Deshuga. Didn't really find it interesting to learn his first. His opponent was Katsu Uchiha. A new genin that is under the wing of Aiko. Probably just allowed to participate for the same reason as you, but who knows? If he is a student of Aiko's, then there is a big chance he has learned a thing or two about poison. Quite nasty, poison.''

Hiron sighed as he kept thinking about other matches. He told about some matches. Most of the genins he had heard about were just average. But that was likely cause they didn't had anything interesting he knew about. That and it wasn't of his concern to really learn everything about them. ''Then there was this match between Koike Hon and Ezuri Hyuuga. Went quite fast as it seems that Aiko taught Koike some nasty poison. I suspect that my nephew has some more tricks up his sleeve and he always had a knack for close ranged combat. Then as final, there is Hayate Hyuzu. A kid I know and quite experienced.'' Hiron thought about it. He had heard that Hayate had managed to win his match, but he wasn't that surprised. ''He hails from a clan that has some bloodline ability to mould and use metal sources, able to do techniques with them. That and he can use Earth Release. Combine that with being quite experienced, I say he and some others are opponents I would watch out for. Or..'' Hiron chuckled. ''Try to learn more about them. There will be some time that we can try to indulge in ''learning'' about your potential future opponent.''

Listening very closely as Hiron spoke, Shikaroku began sizing up the list of opponents in his mind, trying to formulate ways to take them down. He would not allow himself to be shaken or intimidated by the fact that almost everyone else remaining in the exams was far more experienced than he was. From the sound of it, the entrants from Konoha were making a strong showing so far, and Shikaroku didn't want to let his village down. If he was to gave a chance at getting through this round, he was going to have to learn as much as he could about the other participants. Thankfully, the files for the Konoha genin shouldn't be too hard to get a hold of, but in order to get information on any of the participants from the other villages... Shikaroku wasn't sure how he was going to accomplish that. Yet...

''Heh. That is what I want to see.'' Hiron said as he chuckled. ''Seems like you're thinking. But.'' Suddenly Hiron pushed himself and the chair off the wall as he let out a sigh. ''I guess we should get moving.'' He sounded a bit more serious as he raised himself up from his seat. Shoving his hands into the pockets of his pants, Hiron sighed again. As if the movement was already so tiresome. ''Our game of shogi must wait. My shadow clone managed to attend to the announcement of today. Seems you're fighting against... Masami.'' Hiron informed Shikaroku, wondering what his students thoughts were. It was a bit odd as fun to see his students fighting against each other. He had half an idea on how it would end or go, but both had shown that they were full of surprises. Just what he would like to see.

Crap. Was the first thought that went through Shikaroku's mind, as Hiron made the announcement. Masami was a highly skilled shinobi, and Shikaroku had been secretly hoping that he wouldn't have to face her. It wasn't that he was intimidated, but he had every right to be. Shikaroku was not looking forward to fighting a teammate. He was worried that he wouldn't put everything he had into the fight, not wanting to injure someone he had trained with and bonded with. Shaking his head, Shikaroku realized how immature he was being. A shinobi had to look past these things, and if he was to become a proper one, then he would have to look past them too. Trying to bring his thoughts back under control, Shikaroku looked up at his sensei. "I... am ready Hiron-sensei."

''Good. As am I.'' Hiron said, a bit grinning as he gestured that Shikaroku should follow him. Walking towards the door, Hiron briefly let out a laugh. ''There is one good thing to this match up. This time you can bet your ass that somebody will jump in if things get too hot.'' Hiron told Shikaroku. He thought of Masami and decided that he would give her a little kind of pep talk later as well. Would be very unfair if he would just give Shikaroku some comforting words, wouldn't it? Making another shadow clone, Hiron felt a bit weird. Though he hadn't waste that much shadow clone as they weren't destroyed and he hadn't been using any kind of other technique these past days, he wasn't that comfortable of making that many a clones in such a short time period.

Letting out a half smile as Hiron made his comment, a sudden realization struck Shikaroku... "Hiron-sensei... if they just released the next matches... how long have I been out of it?" While they would walk down the hall, Hiron turned his gaze sideways towards his student. ''That is a good question. Drugs, Shikaroku. Drugs.'' Hiron said as he then proceeded to whistle while they would continue to walk.

Naruto : The Rise of The New Generations

Hayate's Match

A collab between ChromeHound and Fieryfly

Summary:
Hayate fights against an unexpected opponent. And gets offered a drink.

Fight

As soon as she entered the arena Shiya wondered if this terrain was going to work in her advantage. It could be, if she played her cards right. With all the houses around one had a lot of hiding spots, but if that was such a great thing... The girl of fifteen slowly walked closer to the center, her left hand resting on the large scroll she had strapped to her back, her eyes searching for her upcoming opponent. Who she then suddenly spotted on one of the buildings. A smile ran over Shiya's face and she brushed some of her white hair out of her eyes to see the boy better. For a moment she inspected her black polished nails against the sun and then called out to the boy: "Hayate Hyuzu, am I right?" She asked. "That is a pretty cute name."

His eyes opening with eyebrows raised, Hayate stood to his feet slowly. Stretching himself out, he gazed down at the girl, scratching the back of his neck. "Uh... Thanks? I take it you must be Haruhi Suzumori then?" Wondering whether or not he should hop down from his new 'perch,' Hayate took a step towards the edge of the roof.

Shiya let out a laugh. Did she look like a Haruhi? She thought not. The name Haruhi sounded like a little scared girl. She was so not that. "No, sorry to disappoint you." She said, bowing slightly. "Shiya Guujin is the name. It seems your opponent was indisposed and so was mine. It's like fate~" She smiled again and took note that the boy was going to jump down. "Where are my manners..." She said as she took the initiative and jumped up to appear next to Hayate on the roof. He was taller then she was, but that was okay. She did like tall guys. "Nice to meet you." She practically beamed as she stood next to him and extended her hand while her eyes shot around the arena from above.

Remembering Kiyomi's words about bowing, Hayate did not return the girl's bow, though it was difficult to fight the urge. Something about the girl put him on edge, and Hayate took a step back when she leapt up to the roof next to him. Staring at the hand for a long moment, he hesitated. "Well, if that is indeed the case then it is nice to meet you as well. Though, you'll have to forgive me for not returning your handshake." Cocking his head to the side, Hayate shrugged apologetically. "I'd rather not get too familiar with someone I just met, especially someone that I'm supposed to fight in a few moments."

"Ah well that is fine. I can understand that." Shiya said and dropped her hand like it wasn't a bother at all. "Maybe you could return the handshake after the battle? We could have a drink..." She wiggled her eyebrows and then took a couple of steps back. Her other hand was still resting on the scroll. She gave the boy another curious look. For the girl from Iwagakure it was strange to meet new people, especially since so many of her village had died. And yet, he seemed colder than she was. More on edge like a bent bow, ready to pop. She found no difficulties in fighting the same with strangers of people that were familiar to her. If he did have that trouble, then she should work with that. "I guess we should start than. Do you have a lot of people watching? Friends? Family? Girlfriend?~" She asked him as she took another step back and formed the Seal of Confrontation.

His eyes travelled down to the scroll that Shiya's hand rested on, before looking back up at her. Getting himself into more of a ready stance, Hayate took a few small steps back so that there was room between him and the strange girl. "No." He said after a pause, his voice holding a polite yet cautious tone. "You?" Bringing his hands up, Hayate formed the Seal as well.

Shiya's free hand waved to the crowd somewhere on her right. "My mom is here, dad couldn't come. And my sensei, of course. He wouldn't want to miss it. Most of my friends couldn't make it though. They are either fighting or watching others. Which is totally fine. You know my best friend told me that-" She stopped herself and chuckled. "You know what, never mind." Unlike Hayate she didn't lower herself in any stance, but just kept standing in an easy pose. Slowly she lowered the seal. "Let's start." Her finger opened the scroll slightly, but she didn't pull it out yet.

Nodding almost imperceptibly, Hayate swiftly reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out two kunai, whipping them towards Shiya. At the same time, he leapt backwards towards the edge of the roof, preparing to jump off.

In a flash Shiya pulled her scroll open and had slammed her hand on it, her finger already cut open by the clasp that opened the scroll. A large puff of smoke emerged around Shiya, obstructing her from Hayate's view for a moment. Then suddenly her figure seemed to emerge from the smoke and fly straight at Hayate. At first glance the figure looked the same, but on a second take you would see that it was not Shiya who had emerged, but rather a pretty wooden version of her. The two kunai were embedded in the chest of the puppet and didn't seem to hinder it. With the smoke settling down, Hayate would be able to see his real opponent again, another puppet standing at her side, as the first swooped in to attack the boy with its fists.

Hmm. Hayate thought before pushing himself into a backflip off of the roof. As he flipped, he pulled two shuriken from his pouch and sent some of his chakra into them, causing them to become unstable. Sending one hurling towards the real Shiya, and one towards the dummy, Hayate fell backwards to the ground below. He landed gracefully and pulled out his staff, preparing to defend himself.

The first puppet got the first blow. With a flick of her finger Shiya raised the arm of the puppet to swap the shuriken away, but as soon as it hit the weapon an explosion occured at their collision point. Some of the wood was cipped away and revealed some of the metal behind it. The look of a blade. Shiya tsk'ed. She had put a lot of effort in those puppets. They were not going to be destroyed so easily! She shot to the side to avoid the other shuriken and ran forwards to the edge of the building to watch Hayate from above. "I guess I should introduce you. Hayate, these are Youchi," she gestured to the puppet that had attacked Hayate first, "and Shubi.' She gestured to the puppet on her side. "My own creations. Aren't they amazing? If I grow up to be as tall as them I might be just as tall as you!" Her hand shot forwards and Youchi shot forwards to Hayate, swooping in from the side with its fist forward.

Seeing that he had managed to at least damage one of the puppets slightly, Hayate's eyes narrowed slightly. He had hoped to accomplish more with his attack, but this had given him some valuable information about the puppet. Smirking ever so slightly when Shiya boasted about her puppets, Hayate thought quickly. He would have to be careful, from what he had heard of puppets, he knew they were capable of holding multiple hidden weapons, and Hayate wasn't in the mood for surprises.

Pushing himself backwards as the puppet swung in from the side, Hayate swept his staff around, knocking Youchi away. He moved back further with a backwards handspring, already reaching inside his jacket as he landed. Withdrawing some metal from his pouch, Hayate began spreading it over his skin, allowing the metal armour to form underneath his clothing. It would take a short time for the armour to spread fully, and so he needed to be careful until that point. Glancing up at the roof, Hayate wanted to draw Shiya down to the street-level if his plan was going to work.

But Shiya didn't fancy coming down so soon. To be honest this was the perfect spot to play out her carefully choreographed puppetplay. A real puppet master was always behind or above their puppets after all, so her spot was just fine. Youchi was knocked to the side, but since puppets didn't feel pain it was no problem whatsoever. There was of course one problem Shiya had to calculate in. If Hayate moved away too much from the building she would have to come down. Her Chakra Threads could only reach so far. So she veered Youchi in a curved arc around Hayate, aiming to capture his attention by lashing out to him again and push him closer to the building again where as Shubi moved forwards slightly and started to send down a rain of senbons towards the boy.

As the senbons and the puppet surged towards him, Hayate simply prepared himself for the impact. Raising his arms slightly in a defensive position, he did not move as he was struck on both sides-- before poofing away in a small burst of smoke. The senbons would strike the small wooden block that he had used to replace himself. Hayate appeared out of sight behind a small building a short ways away. Quickly forming the necessary handseals, he formed a single shadow clone and sent it below the earth. With that done, Hayate made his way between the buildings, heading towards the courtyard he had spotted earlier.

Huh... Shiya thought almost lazily as she saw Hayate disappear. Body Replacement Technique. Welll, yes that worked quite nicely. Her eyes shot around as she pulled Youchi back, closer to herself. The buildings weren't evenly spread so jumping from on to another wasn't as easy. That meant that there were two options. She could stay on the roof, at some point the guy had to attack her, or she could jump down and search for him. So far she didn't really have a clue as what her opponent was capable of besides Body Replacement stuff. Suddenly she just decided. She jumped down walked a couple of steps forward and jumped to the next building. If she would keep up the method of getting up high she would have to find him eventually, right?

Approaching the entrance to the courtyard, Hayate stayed close to the corner of the building he was behind. Peering out around the corner, he could make out the entire courtyard, but still he saw no sign of Shiya. Walking out into the open was always a risk, but if Hayate's plan was going to work, he was going to have to take a few of those. Stepping out into the courtyard, he looked around, keeping a close eye on the surrounding rooftops. Hayate wouldn't be able to watch every direction at once, but he knew roughly where he had last seen Shiya, and if she was approaching from the same direction, he would at least be a little more prepared. Walking closer to the middle of the courtyard, Hayate pulled out two kunai, and kept an eye out. Where are you...

Shiya did indeed come from the direction that Hayate had been guessing. She spotted the courtyard with the boy in it and halted on top of the building. Oh, that was smart. The courtyard was big enough so that she would be unable to reach all the way across to him if she was on a building. Meaning she had to get down. So she did. With slow steps she walked forwards to Hayate. With the movement of several fingers she send Youchi forward again. She was pretty sure Hayate was going to dodge, but that might just be exactly what she wanted.

Seeing movement out of the corner of his eye, Hayate turned slightly as Shiya entered the courtyard. Seeing the puppet surging towards him once again, Hayate sent a small amount of his chakra flowing into his two kunai and charged forwards. Throwing one of the kunai towards Youchi, he set it to explode upon contact. Shifting slightly, Hayate threw the second kunai past Youchi and towards Shiya, setting it to explode a couple of feet in front of her. The blast wasn't meant to harm her, it was merely meant to be a distraction. Closing in on the first puppet, Hayate waited to see what would happen.

He had send kunai before and Shiya didn't fancy her puppets being blown up more. Her fingers moved and a blade emerged from Youchi's arm that smashed the kunai aside. The thing exploded, but the blade could handle that. At least the wood wouldn't be blown up now. The other arm of the puppet lashed out towards Hayate as a blade appeared from that arm as well. Meanwhile Shiya tried to get Shubi before her to block the incoming kunai, but the thing exploded before her, making Shiya take a step back.

Ducking beneath the incoming blade, Hayate felt it pass over him. That had been close. Taking advantage of the momentary distraction caused by the second explosion, Hayate surged forwards, charging towards Shiya. Pulling out two kunai once again, Hayate prepared to throw them towards his opponent. This time, however, he did not charge the weapons. His hope was that Shiya would be expecting the kunai to explode yet again, and he needed her to be focused on that more than on the effect the weapons would actually have. Sending the kunai flying towards her, spaced so that they would pass by her on either side unless she blocked them, Hayate continued his charge, closing the distance quickly.

Shiya tsk'ed as Youchi missed his target. She pulled him back to surge after the dashing Hayate who had launched more kunai. Really, she thought as she moved Shubi even closer. Was he going to keep blowing her up? Or try at least? Well Shubi could block them. She just had to deal with the incoming Hayate who apparantly had pisspoor aim cause the kunai soared right past her. Shiya's fingers moved and suddenly, as Hayate came dangerously close, Shubi seemed to fall apart. The pieces detached themselves and launched themselves at Hayate, swirling around him like a storm. The pieces itself couldn't do much damage, besides some slight bruising, but they should serve as a nice distraction so that Youchi could swoop in and stab the boy in the back.

The kunai had done their job in keeping Shiya in the same spot. As Hayate charged forwards, he noticed the puppet in front of him breaking apart into numerous pieces. His eyes narrowing slightly, Hayate continued moving towards Shiya. His metal armour would prevent the puppet from doing any actual damage but it was still a nuisance, and Hayate moved faster, trying to push through it.

The second puppet, Youchi, had come in for an attack from behind, just as Hayate had anticipated. He had not had a chance to see what the puppet would attack with, however, so he only hoped his metal armour would provide enough protection. Feeling the impact of Youchi's blade striking his armour, Hayate was thrown forwards, pushing him off balance. Reaching out with one hand, he managed to push off from the ground and spring himself forwards, on to his feet again. Hayate was glad that his armour had held, otherwise that blade would have... Shaking the thought form his mind, Hayate returned his focus to the task at hand. So far, things were going to plan, after all, he was just the distraction...

Suddenly, a hand burst from the ground below Shiya's feet, reaching up to grab her ankle and pull her below. Hayate's clone hoped to catch her off guard while she was distracted with the real one on the surface. Using the double suicide decapitation technique, he attempted to pull her below the earth.

Shiya knew that Youchi had hit which was why she stopped the swirling mass of wood and slowly called it back. The problem with the technique and with puppets in general was that you couldn't feel exactly what you did. She kwen she had hit, she just didn't know what kind of damage she had done because she couldn't see Hayate clearly. But when she pulled Shubi back... the boy seemed to be fine. She gaped slightly only to feel a hand grab her ankle. "Oh come on..." She called. The hand started to pull her down, Shiya's hands moved. First Shubi, now reassembled again, released a smoke bomb towards the ground before Hayate's which would explode as soon as it would touch something. Youchi dropped to the ground as Shiya put both of her hands in the dirt to try and assert some strength so that she wouldn't be dragged in, her foot kicking around randomly in the earth to try and hit the freaking guy.

Feeling her fighting back, Hayate's clone managed to latch his other hand around Shiya's flailing limb. Holding on as securely as he could, the clone resumed his attempt to pull her below the surface, using all of his strength to try and break her hold on the earth above.

On the surface, Hayate saw the bomb being thrown and quickly flipped backwards. Allowing the metal armour to come up and cover his head, Hayate was now completely encased. As the smoke began filling the area, Hayate did his best to ignore it, moving to where he had last seen Shiya. Pulling out his staff, he moved carefully, cautious for any sign of movement. Hayate wasn't too familiar with the way that puppet users worked, and he wasn't sure if Shiya was able to manipulate her puppets while she was preoccupied.

Focusing on hearing instead of sight, Hayate made his way to the sound of struggling. He could barely make out the shape of something below him, so he crouched down, holding the staff out in front of him. Turning the staff so that the one of the ends was facing his opponent, Hayate flowed a little of his chakra into it, allowing the end to become sharpened. "Yield?" He asked, his tone strangely polite.

Now Shiya wasn't someone who took challengers very far. If she knew she was going to lose she bailed. But she was not losing yet! Frustrated Shiya lashed out with one hand to get Youchi up. She was losing the struggle and she knew it, but she could at least try one more thing, if it wouldn't work then yielding might be a good option. Shubi followed the movement. Those puppets weighted at least as much as she did so... Shiya was nearly completely pulled into the ground now when the two puppets shot backwards, away from Shiya, wanting to pull her out, but they were too late. Hayate dragged Shiya down further so that her arms went into the ground as well. Shiya sighed.

"Where are you?" She called. "How can I tell you I yield without looking you in the eye?"

Grinning for a moment, Hayate nodded his head. Not that she would see, but it was more to confirm to himself what he was going to do. Putting the staff away at his back, Hayate quickly made several handseals before withdrawing just enough metal from his hand to draw some blood. Slamming his palm into the earth, a large puff of smoke appeared behind him, adding to the already dense cloud. A large shadow could be seen looming behind Hayate, and a low growling noise came forth. "Clear it." Hayate spoke through the neural link. A snort of apprehension could be heard behind him. "Please..." Hayate added, with an amused tone.

There was a brief silence before the air around them began to grow heavy. With a roar, and a tremendous gust of wind, the smoke around them was blown away completely. Hayate knelt in front of Shiya, still grinning slightly. Kuromu stood tall behind him, his wings splayed out, and a small stream of fire coming from his nostrils when he exhaled. It was purely for show, as Kurmou had a flair for theatrics. His pride demanded that he make a lasting impression. Cocking his head to the side, Hayate's smile widened. "So?"

Shiya stared. That was literally all she was doing. But what did you expect with a freaking dragon before you. A real firebreathing dragon. What. The. Hell. Instead of being afraid however, a smile formed on Shiya's face. A smile that grew. "Well," she said. "You know how to impress a girl. I guess I have no choice now." She lifted her head with as much pride as she could muster while being in her current position.

"I yield." There was a short pause, after which she added: "And can you come over now, I have this terrible itch on my nose and I can't scratch it because of what you did. So you kind of owe me."

Dissipating his clone, Hayate stepped towards Shiya, still smiling. Reaching beneath the earth, he grabbed hold of her arm and helped pull her to the surface. Taking a step back, he realized she was covered in dirt and reached up to scratch the back of his head, letting out a slightly embarrassed chuckle. "Uh... sorry about that." Turning his head back to Kurmou, Hayate offered the dragon a nod of thanks and turned back to face Shiya. Letting out a low grumble, Kuromu knew that he wasn't needed anymore and so he disappeared in another large puff of smoke, leaving Hayate and Shiya alone in the clearing.

"Yes, be sorry." Shiya mumbled, but she grinned never the less. Quickly she brushed most of the dirt of her shirt and sleeves. "Well?" She said, looking expectantly to Hayate who was just standing there doing nothing of use. "Are you going to help me? I can't get my back after all so you will have to do it."

A blush forming on his face, Hayate rocked on his heels for a moment before replying. "Oh... uh... sure... sorry..." Mumbling the last few words, he moved towards her, walking around behind her back. Reaching out, Hayate hesitantly brushed away a little of the dirt that covered her. For the life of him, he wasn't sure why he was so timid around females, it wasn't like they were all going to stab him... well... His thoughts flicking back to Kiyomi, Hayate smiled briefly before looking back to his handiwork. Truth be told he had done a fairly meager job at getting the dirt off. "Uh... you may have to wash these clothes later." He said, taking a step back and scratching the back of his neck again, looking sheepish.

Shiya giggled. This guy was too cute. Never mind that she had just fought with him a minute ago, this was sweet. One minute he had been trying everything to get his hands on her and now he was totally too shy too touch her even in the slightest. "I might," she said as she turned back to him and shrugged with her shoulders. At least some of the dirt came off. "But the more important question is..." She gave Hayate a very serious look. "Do you think they would let me in a restaurant looking like this? 'Cause we do need to have that drink, remember?" She said as she stretched out her hand, hoping that this time Hayate would accept the handshake. "It was a good match afterall."

Attack on Titan: Corruption and Oppression

Samuel Drake - Squad 17

Stowing the map away in his pack, Samuel looked up to see Terry speaking to him. He stared at her blankly for a long moment as she tried to offer him advice on riding, fighting the urge to glare. It wasn't that he was mad at her for trying to help, he was just angry with himself for unintentionally showing weakness.

Looking away, Samuel focused his efforts on keeping up. The other kid... Joseph, seemed to think this exercise was a race, and was already setting them off at a fast pace. As if this wasn't bad enough... Sighing inwardly, Samuel fell in line behind his squadmates. Almost unconsciously, he began shifting his body the way Terry had suggested, straightening himself out on the horse and digging in his thighs. The difference was instantaneously noticeable. His eyes narrowing slightly, Samuel blushed, embarrassed. He didn't want Terry to know that her advice had worked. Keeping his eyes cast downwards, he continued to ride in silence.

Attack on Titan: Corruption and Oppression

Samuel Drake - Squad 17

The boy...Joseph, saved Samuel once again from having to respond to the girl with the boundless enthusiasm, and he breathed an inner sigh of relief. Watching as his squadmates so easily selected their horses, Samuel slowly made his way through the stables. Truth be told, he had no preferred mount, if he had his choice he would prefer to stay away from the horses entirely.

Examining the beasts with wary eyes, Samuel finally settled on a sleek black horse with a diamond-shaped tuft of white hair above it's snout. Approaching the horse, he checked the equipment in the pouches that it carried, satisfied that everything seemed to be in the proper place. After strapping the rest of his gear to the horse, Samuel reluctantly mounted the creature, and made his way out of the stables.

Catching up with his squadmates, Samuel arrived in time to hear Terry's suggestion. Pulling out the map, he studied it carefully, all the while doing his best to remain stable on the horse. Putting the map away, Samuel said nothing. Terry's plan seemed like a good one, and unless he felt like they were putting themselves at risk, Samuel felt no need to add anything, or suggest any changes. Riding along in silence, he hoped that he didn't look as awkward on the horse as he felt...

Naruto : The Rise of The New Generations

Hayate's personal coach is revealed!
The pep-talk of Hayate begins!

---

A collab between Chromehound and Alice.

Summary :
Hayate walks to his match with one person that has been allowed to watch it. She isn't there just to cheer for him, but his personal coach as well! Fun times!

---

A coach?

She looked with a stern look at the announcer. He had said who Hayate was going to fight and for some reason she didn't like the name. It was like the name alone was tough and Mimi didn't want Hayate to face against somebody tough. ''Mimi thinks you should not hold back.'' Turning around, the much smaller girl poked Hayate against his side, still having a stern look on her face. ''Mimi thinks Silly Face should better win or else going to have to five hundred push ups!'' Wiggling with her right index finger, the much smaller girl had a jacket on that was maybe a bit too big for her.

Grinning, Hayate looked down at the small girl. Gently he reached out and ruffled one hand through her hair affectionately. "I'll see what I can do Mimi-chan. I don't want to underestimate my opponent though." Thinking ahead to his match, Hayate wondered what it would be like. He had been in combat before, multiple times actually... But this was a different matter entirely. Here every one of his actions were being judged, and that would decide how his future looked. Not for the first time, he wished Kiyomi could be here.

Puffing up her cheeks, Mimi raised her hands a bit. Clenching them in fists, she had a fierce look on her face. ''Mimi is going to cheer and do her best. Silly Face better do his best too!'' She told him. Lowering her hands, Mimi looked around. She was so small and there were such strong people around. Turning to look where the Kages would be, Mimi stared for several moments. ''Mimi hopes nothing bads happens.'' Muttering the words, she brought her left thumb to her mouth, to suck on it.

Gently, Hayate reached down and pulled her hand away from her mouth. Pulling out a lollipop from his pocket he held it out to the small girl with a smile. "I will Mimi, promised." He was glad that Mimi had been able to come along with him, at least then he knew someone would be there to cheer him on. Looking down at her for a moment, he couldn't help but chuckle a little at how she looked in his old coat. It was something she would grow into with time, but at the moment it made the girl look even smaller than she actually was. Truth be told, he still felt honoured that Mimi wanted to wear the jacket.

Taking the lollipop, Mimi frowned at the object. Muttering something, she wouldn't try to argue against Hayate. He would likely know things better, but that didn't take away her concern and worries. ''Mimi hopes Silly Face does what he says. Mimi else thinks he owes her several presents.'' After unwrapping the lollipop, Mimi pushed the object in her mouth. Holding it with her left hand, she reached out with her right hand towards Hayate's. ''Mimi wants to see the arena.''

Taking Mimi's hand in his own, Hayate smiled again. "You do like presents..." Letting out a loud, exaggerated sigh, Hayate chuckled. "I'm not sure if they'll let you come inside, but I can probably walk you over to the entrance at least?" The question was met with a smile. Mimi indeed liked presents. No, she loved them. They were the signs of affection or else just awesome. Who didn't like to be given a nice present? Sometimes they were handy or just fun.

''Mimi could try to walk as far as I am allowed. It isn't like Mimi is going to try to help you.'' The little girl told him, quite content that she could walk him towards the match. It would had been great if Kiyomi could be here, but for some reasons she wasn't here. Not sure what reasons they were, Mimi didn't want to ruin the moment with complaining or question Hayate why that was.

Laughing again, Hayate ruffled a hand through the young girl's hair. "I think if you were to help then my opponent would stand no chance." He said, sounding amused. Reaching the entrance to the arena, Hayate's thoughts travelled to the match ahead, wondering what his opponent was going to be like. Glancing down at Mimi, Hayate paused and knelt down. "I just wanted to thank you for coming along Mimi-chan. It means a lot."

Wondering why he was so grateful for having her tag along, Mimi nodded. Maybe he was just being nervous or even worse, scared. Which wasn't strange cause he had to fight somebody and she was a bit nervous too. ''Mimi doesn't mind it.'' Trying to look a bit indifferent, she shrugged lightly. ''Mimi knows that somebody needs to look over Silly Face, so Mimi doesn't mind doing so.'' Though she thought that she had done a good job, the tone gave well away that she was a bit nervous about the whole situation.

Smiling warmly, Hayate pulled Mimi into a hug. "Well then I couldn't ask for a better guardian." He said, pulling away and slowly getting back to his feet. While Hayate still wished Kiyomi could be here, he understood the responsibility that kept her in the village. Taking a look into the arena, Hayate could not see much at first, turning back to Mimi, he gently pulled her along with him as he took another step.

''Mimi thinks so too.'' Managing to get a bit more confindent, she was still worried. It would be very bad if Hayate would get hurt. Or lose a limb. Losing a limb was bad. Losing two was probably the worst. Slightly sqeeuzing Hayate's hand, Mimi decided to just walk until she wasn't allowed any further. If that was the only thing she could do to help out Hayate, then she wouldn't try to ponder too much on losing limbs. She had to think of something good, something nice. ''Shall we get ice-cream once this match is over?''

"You treating this time?" He asked, teasing the girl. In reality, ice cream sounded like a great idea, and Hayate hoped that he and Mimi would have a chance to get some after the match. Stepping into the arena fully now, Hayate glanced around, confused at first. It appeared to be a small urban center, with buildings all around, filling the arena. "Interesting..." He mused quietly.

With Hayate entering the field, Mimi would watch him enter it. She was forbidden to walk any further, but she kept watching his back. Hoping that he would turn around and that she could wave one last time. But with Hayate entering the field, Mimi decided to run. Running to the entry of the tribunes. Maybe she coucld take a good seat where she had a clear view on the match while also able to cheer for Hayate. After the trouble of running around, Mimi managed to take a seat that was to her liking. Though still nervous, Mimi was beaming. Watching Hayate entering the field, she rose instantly up from her seat. Waving with one arm as she kept her right hand close to her mouth. ''Silly Face! Go!''

Glancing back to Mimi, he saw her beginning to run. Smiling, Hayate turned back, observing his surroundings carefully. Leaping onto the top of a small building nearby, he looked around, taking in as much detail as he could. There seemed to be a market district of sorts, and a large courtyard a ways away. His opponent was noweher to be seen, and so he simply leapt to another taller building nearby and sat down. Getting himself into an almost meditative pose, Hayate began preparing himself for the match ahead. Hearing the shout from Mimi, he blushed profusely, wishing she wouldn't call him like that in front of everyone.

Glad that she saw him, even being calm, Mimi sat down. The big jacket that was once of Hayate, made it possible to hide something. The whole purpose of her being at the exams with Hayate wasn't just to cheer for him. Knowing that one day she could end up being in an arena, needing to face another shinobi, Mimi pulled out a notebook and pencil. A bit of her tongue stuck out as she started to note something down. ''Act calm and seek for a point where you can overlook the field.'' Mimi glanced back at Hayate, noticing that he went even up to a higher position. To medidate. ''Proceed to medidate. Might be some sort of ritual for Silly Face. Must question him about this later.'' After that she looked back at Hayate, putting the end of the pencil against her chin as she frowned. Every detail and important note could help her in the future. But why was medidating so important?

Closing his eyes, Hayate regained his composure and smiled, ever so slightly. He didn't know who or what he was about to face, and he didn't have Kiyomi there to lend him strength, but he was ready. He had Mimi-chan's support, and all of the teachings of Kiyomi-chan to lead him forth. If he wasn't up to par now then he never would be. Opening his eyes, Hayate's expression had changed to one of fierce determination. This was it.

Naruto : The Rise of The New Generations

Chuunin Exams!
Shadow versus Mist!

Shikaroku Nara versus Deidara Yuhiko.

A Collab between Chromehound and Mr Nim, Refereed by Fieryfly

Shadow vs Mist!

Entering the arena, Shikaroku was hit with the bright morning sun. Taking a moment to let his eyes adjust, he looked around the arena and frowned. Great... He thought staring at the desert in front of him. There were a few large boulders scattered about, but mostly a lot of sand. Several dunes rose up, giving the arena a realistic feel to it, and as Shikaroku stepped out into the sand, he could feel the heat radiating throughout the place.

Walking towards the center of the arena, Shikaroku stood near the top of one of the dunes. He looked around to gain his bearings before turning to wait for his opponent. A thought struck him and Shikaroku took the bandanna that Hiron had given him and tied it around the back of his neck.

Slowly dragging his feet through the entrance of the arena, Deidara was blinded by the very bright sun and also felt the heat all around him. He figured that his mist techniques might be more effective in this heat, but he wasn't sure yet, nor did he really care. They sent him here because they deemed him to be ready for the exam, when he felt the only thing he was ready for is staying in his bed and rotting in there. After noticing his legs started to slightly sink into the sank, he made a couple of proper steps to release them and made his way slowly to one of the dunes, standing on it and giving his opponent a very depressed look.

Hmm. Shikaroku thought upon seeing his opponent. The other boy certainly didn't seem enthused to be here. Observing his opponent carefully for a long moment, Shikaroku said nothing, nor did he make any move to start the match just yet. Finaly, he let out a sigh and formed the seal of confrontation.

Staring at his opponent with the same depressed look for a while, Deidara wondered if the other boy even considered him worthy to fight him, seeing that he was not doing anything or saying anything. After a couple of minutes the boy formed the seal of confrontation, and slightly shivering, he formed the seal as well. He was wondering if there was any point of putting any effort or not into it.

Seeing the corresponding seal, Shikaroku's hands travelled to his pouch and he pulled out several shuriken. Throwing them towards his opponent, he prepared himself to watch how the other boy would react.

Upon seeing the incoming shurikens, Deidara sighed and formed three seals before letting out of his mouth a strong burst of water which stopped all the shurikens before stopping. Looking at his opponent, he figured that he should try and attack back him, but he didn't see a lot of use with it, so he formed three other seals and out of his mouth came out 20 water butterflies which started to circle around him. He then looked at Shikaroku again, trying to figure out if she should send bursts of butterflies or just all at once.

Seeing his opponent use water release, Shikaroku was happy he had already gleaned at least a little information so early. As Deidara surrounded himself with the strange water butterflies, Shikaroku briefly frowned before pulling out two kunai with explosive tags attached. Instead of throwing them directly towards his opponent, Shikaroku threw one down towards the sand in front of the other boy and one to the side of him. The kunai were far enough away that they wouldn't cause Deidara harm from the explosions, but that wasn't the point. Shikaroku formed the seal to activate the tags as they struck the sand, sending large bursts of loose sand towards Deidara.

Seeing the two kunai with the explosive tags being thrown to his side and front, Deidara wondered what the boy was trying to do before the explosions from the tags sent large bursts of sand towards Deidara. Sending the water butterflies at the sand, he managed to stop most of the sand by having the water butterflies impact the sand bursts, and then he closed his eyes for a moment as a bit of sand came at him. Forming three seals as the sand struck him, he let out of his mouth six fire butterflies this time after the sand fell down and sent them towards Shikaroku, aiming to make them spin around his opponent very close to him, wanting to try and prevent him from doing any seals or throwing anything else at him.

Moving from his position as soon as the sand shot up around Deidara, Shikaroku pulled out his chain scythes. He was not far away from the other boy now, so Shikaroku swung the weapon around and sent one of the ends surging towards his opponent. The chain would allow him to shift the scythe's momentum if necessary. He caught a glimpse of the fire butterflies heading towards his last position, and realized that he would need to be quick with his strike, else Deidara would likely shift the fire butterflies towards him again.

Opening his eyes and seeing the incoming scythe, Deidara decided to move just a bit to the side so it still hit him, but only did a scratch. That single moment, however, made all of the fire butterflies vanish. Thinking for a moment what he should next while keeping an eye on his opponent, he decided to just go all out. At least that way there was a chance of him dying from a lack of chakra. He activated his small mist and charged forward, aiming to hide in it and try to strike his opponent from up close.

Only, Deidara would find himself unable to move forwards. With their shadows now linked, Shikaroku had activated the shadow imitation technique, forcing Deidara's actions to mimic his own. Lowering the scythe to the ground, Shikaroku focused his chakra for a moment longer, stretching the shadow slightly so that his hold was stronger. Reaching into his weapons pouch, Shikaroku pulled out a kunai. Gripping the weapon tightly for a moment, he glanced around, looking for the refferee of the match. What he was about to do... Shikaroku wasn't aware how much the refs would act in the match, but he hoped they would intervene shortly. Drawing the weapon back, Shikaroku sent it flying towards Deidara's chest.

Now it was coming towards him. The final blow. Will this be the hit to end all of his sufferring, or will it merely be another hit to his damned body? Deidara hoped for what seemed like the better option in his eyes as he closed his eyes and felt the kunai strike his chest, and shortly afterwards making him fall backwards. He felt the blood start to go out from his chest and blinked a couple of times, wondering how long this might take.

Before Shikaroku could make another move suddenly two shinobi appeared between the two combatants. "The match is over." One of them said, turning to the Nara beckoning him to stop the technique and step back. The other ninja rushed over to the boy on the ground his hands flaring up green as soon as he arrived. It was not in the aim of the exam to let any of its fighters die after all. Though accidents could happen of course.

Letting the shadow retract, Shikaroku took a step backwards, stunned. He had expected the ref to intervene before the blade had hit Deidara, but everything had happened so fast. The look on the other boy's face... he had almost seemed... No. That was impossible. His mind reeling, Shikaroku turned around, trying to see into the audience, hoping to spot either Hiron or Aiko. He couldn't make out anyone though... That's when the migraine kicked in. Groaning with the sudden pain, Shikaroku fell to his knees, clutching his head. Reaching into his pouch quickly, Shikaroku withrew his medicine. Popping a few of the pills into his mouth, he swallowed, waiting for the pain to subside.

As the one shinobi was attempting to give Deidara first-aid the other looked back to Shikaroku as soon as he heard the groaning. Seeing the Genin on the ground the man sighed softly. "We are getting them out of here." He said. With a short wave a couple more shinobi appeared to carry Deidara away and draw Shikaroku up to have him leave the arena as well. And with that the field was empty again.

Naruto : The Rise of The New Generations

A word of advice,
Hiron's view.

A collab between Chrome and Gero.

Summary :
Hiron walks Shikaroku to his match and shares his opinion with his student before he will start his match.

A sensei

Hiron had looked at the announcer. When Shikaroku and Masami were announced, he had at first done nothing. Listening to the surnames could sometimes reveal a detail or two about the opponent. Hopefully had they also pay attention to it, cause he had been rather harsh and stern with the two genins ever since they had set foot in Amegakure. If it weren't for the matches to begin soon, they would likely expect him to give them a grim training to make sure that they would be warmed up for the next following month. Making a shadow clone, one of the Hiron beckoned to Shikaroku. ''Kid. With me.'' The tone made it clear that Hiron wouldn't accept a no from the boy. Shoving his hands into the pockets of his pants as he already started to walk, Hiron would throw a question towards Shikaroku. ''Feeling ready for it?''

Thinking seriously about that question, Shikaroku kept his hands tucked away in his pockets. "I suppose I am as ready as I could feel, given the circumstances." He finally said, glancing up at his sensei. "Do you think I'm ready?" Shikaroku asked back, a slight grin on his face. It wasn't that he was in a joking mood, nor was he really that happy at the moment, but it felt a little different around Hiron. It felt like he could be a little more comfortable.

''No.'' Hiron's answer was rather short and he didn't think long about it. ''Your taijutsu isn't what I would be content with. Your ninjutsu isn't that trained yet that I would call it good for your level.'' Hiron stopped with his comments. ''But you got something that most others don't have.'' Though Hiron hadn't smiled or grinned in days towards his students, he shot Shikaroku a grin. ''You got a healthy dose of guts. Some good motivation and knowing how to use that brain. All you need to do is give it your all. Even if you can't win, just know that you don't need to win. Sometimes, a wise or strong shinobi knows when to forfeit and retreat. If you have the idea that you won't win. Forfeit.'' Hiron's grin vanished as he looked more worried.

''No need to get all bruised up, kid. There is always a next exam if this one won't work. And if there is by any small chance,'' Hiron sighed briefly as he looked at the direction they were heading. ''That you're doing this to try to impress or make me proud, then lets call it a day right away. Fighting in that arena won't make me any proud or impressed by what you can do.'' Shikaroku would feel a pat on his head. ''Cause I already am.''

Chuckling as Hiron went on about his sub-par skills, Shikaroku couldn't help but feel a little relieved. He was filled with a sense of warmth when Hiron said he was proud, and for a moment, stunned into silence. Looking up, Shikaroku locked eyes with his sensei. "Thank you Hiron-sensei. That..." Looking away, he didn't need to finish what he was saying, Hiron already knew. Thinking ahead to his match, Shikaroku had indeed been wanting to make Hiron proud, to make Aiko-sama proud... But he also didn't want to act foolishly simply to appease other people.

This match was supposed to be about showing off their skills, and deciding whether or not they were ready to become Chuunin. Shikaroku harboured no doubts that it was a task he wasn't ready for, he had a lot to learn. But the fact that Hiron had allowed him to enter, to get the experience, meant that maybe one day he would be ready to take on that task. Leading others... It was a strange thought, especially for a shinobi who still had a hard enough time leading himself.

They were near the arena and Hiron slowly stopped. He looked with a frown at Shikaroku. ''I never told you why I kind of started to become not that easy with you, I realized.'' Hiron started off. ''I have met and trained a lot of genins and most of them were rubbish. Going to be honest, they were either too arrogant or too dumb to understand what was truly important. I always have seen myself like that, cause I was too arrogant at times. Around your age, I only became bolder when I was promoted to become a jounin. Only later I realized why I was promoted.'' Hiron sighed, raising his right hand to place it at his neck. He had a more relaxed appearance, the grin becoming a smile. ''Cause I showed the potential to understand the little things that are important.''

Letting a pause fall, Hiron raised his right hand for his mouth, coughing a bit. ''But back to my point. I think that you're a bit like me. Less arrogant and probably better with thinking, but still.'' Looking with a rather serious look, Hiron moved his hand up to his bandanna. ''I want to give you something small.'' Slowly his fingers would unwrap the cloth as he would stretch it towards Shikaroku. ''It isn't anything cool as a new blade or technique. Kind of worthless, but might bring some luck.''

Slowly reaching out, Shikaroku took hold of the bandanna, speechless. "Hiron... sensei... are you sure?" Holding the piece of cloth in his hand, he forgot about everything else for the moment. It didn't need to be a weapon, a technique, or anything like that... The gesture, that meant the world to Shikaroku.

''No, I just want to give you some piece of cloth.'' The sarcasm was evidently clear in the voice of the jounin, who sighed. But he did sound quite amused. ''Now, remember what I told you. And if you can, give them hell.'' Waiting, Hiron would stand still till Shikaroku would enter the arena. Until the doors would closed, he would just stand and wait for Shikaroku to enter the field.

Grinning, Shikaroku raised the bandanna and tied it around his head. Nodding to his sensei, there was nothing more he needed to say. Shikaroku turned on his heel and made his way towards the entrance of the arena. This is it... He thought to himself, taking a deep breath before he stepped inside.