Chapter 10: The Weapons Known as Shinobi!
Kakashi opened his eyes. "They didn't make it." He thought as he got up. It was the day of the execution and Joe and Sakura were nowhere in sight. "Plus, Connor has not attacked yet. Or else word would have spread like wildfire. So what do I do?" After getting dressed, he walked out to Yahiko eating breakfast. "They didn't make it, looks like that loser failed." Yahiko stated. "Yeah, in any case the execution is in a couple hours. We'll be expected to attend." Kakashi answered as he grabbed some fruit. "So what will you do?" Yahiko asked. Kakashi just kept eating. When they were done, they headed out to the castle. "So what's the deal with the execution?" Yahiko asked, his hands in his pockets. "It's going to take place in the receiving area in front of the castle entrance. She's to be hanged and left so that the public may see what happens to traitors." Kakashi answered. "The Daimyo and his entourage will also be in attendance." After walking for a couple minutes they finally reached the receiving area. Kakashi surveyed the area as they entered the crowd. "Soldiers all over the place, not to mention that if the Daimyo is going to be here so will Namikaze." Kakashi thought. Looking around he saw a large platform in the middle of the area. "So that's how he wants to do it." Kakashi thought as he looked at the platform. On top of it was a large crane-like mechanism with 2 ropes hanging off of it. "He's going to hang her high enough so the whole city will be able to see. The ropes work like a restraining system. One rope holds the victim, well the other holds down the crane. When the second rope is cut, the victim will be pulled up into the air. Talk about overkill, then again this is Nobuhide." Kakashi continued to scan the area. The receiving place was surrounded by 40 foot walls with a couple guards standing on top of them. "If I try to save Kai, those guards will spot me in an instant from above. This crowd will make it easy to hide, but knowing the Daimyo he may just slaughter them all." Kakashi thought. Then the crowd reacted as the Daimyo and his entourage entered the execution area from the palace entrance. While the entourage sat down, the Daimyo moved to the podium. The crowd instantly quieted as he began to speak. "Greetings my loyal subjects, and welcome to today's public demonstration. Today a rebel shall pay for her crimes against our fair society." Kakashi looked around, but could not see Kai or Namikaze for that matter. "For years, you suffered poverty and oppression at the hands of our enemies. However, together we were able to overcome these hardships and create an era of peace and prosperity for the land of Stone!" Nobuhide stated as he raised his hands urging the horde onward. "Well he sure can work a crowd."Kakashi thought as he looked around at the cheering mob. After the crowd quieted down, Nobuhide again addressed them. "Now these rebels threaten everything we have worked to achieve. The peace and security that we paid for with our own blood and sacrifice during the civil war will be paid back ten-fold starting now." Motioning to a pair of guards, Nobuhide ordered, "Bring out the Girl!" A few moments later Kakashi saw them drag Kai out of the palace. She was chained tight and had to be carried. "You're gonna swing real nice lady." One of the guards taunted her as they dragged her onto the platform. Kakashi smiled as he watched Kai spit into the guards face, then tightened his fist when the guard backhanded her. As the mob began to shout out insults and throw food at Kai, the Daimyo spoke. Raising his fist into the air, he shouted above the crowd, "This rebel shall be the first to fall to our great land!" He then nodded to the guards and sat down on his throne. The guards then brought Kai up to the ropes and began to tie the noose. Something touched Kakashi on the shoulder as he watched the spectacle. Kakashi looked back as Yahiko gave him a questioning look. However, Kakashi raised his hand and shook his head. He watched as they finished tying the noose and then backed away from Kai. For a second Kai's eyes met his. "I'm sorry Kai, but the fate of this Land and the safety of my squad is too important." Kakashi thought as he looked down at the ground, avoiding her gaze. Waiting for the guard to cut the rope, Kakashi noticed a messenger bump into a civilian. This drew the attention of the crowd. The Daimyo confused as to why the death threats had stopped, halted the guard. Looking at his messenger he asked, "What is it?" The messenger ran up to the platform's edge out of breath. He then answered, "My lord, the rebels have taken the village!" The Daimyo's face went blank with horror. "Joe did it, he convinced Connor!" Kakashi thought, then waited for the Daimyo to speak. "He doesn't have a choice. Without those Diamonds he can't solidify his power, especially with the Leaf looming over his shoulder. C'mon take the bait." Then someone in the crowd shouted, "C'mon send out the troops to crush these rebels!" However, not everyone held the same opinion. "So we hammer them down just because they disagree with our "glorious Leader!" That doesn't sound very peaceful to me!" All of a sudden the crowd was in uproar as both sides began to hurl insults at each other. "That's enough!" Nobuhide shouted, both hands raised. Looking towards his general, he ordered, "general, lead the entirety of our forces against those un-organized hippies and restore order." The general nodded and mounted his horse, the majority of the soldiers following him. The Daimyo, satisfied that he had asserted his authority , moved back to the podium. "Though some of you have doubted me, it is clear that we can and will defend our country without outside assistance. Do not doubt your savior. When this country fell on its knees having been abandoned by the Leaf, I dragged it back from the brink of collapse. When some threatened what we had achieved, I sharpened swords and shields in order to protect it." He paused then continued. "Do not worry, for this under-handed attack on our new village shall be punished accordingly. I promise you, these Rebels shall not ruin all that we have achieved. Now onto the main event." He said as he turned and sat back down. Kakashi had other plans however, nodding to Yahiko. "Sorry Nobuhide, but your pompous speech gave me all the time I needed. And now that your army has left the city, you have no-one to hide behind." Kakashi thought. All of a sudden Kakashi and Yahiko leaped high into the air. Kakashi landed on the platform and began taking down the remaining guards. Looking over at Yahiko, he saw him use his wind style jutsu to destroy 3 guards at once. However, Yahiko was surrounded by the crowd. "If I don't do something quick, Yahiko will be overwhelmed. But I can't hurt these people, there are still civilians." Kakashi thought as he started to make hand-signs. "Time for a show." Smiling, Kakashi finished signing and took a deep breath. "Fire Style, Burning Ash!" Kakashi exclaimed as he let out a black cloud of smoke. Choking from the heat and the smog, the crowd began running for the exit. As the smog cleared, Kakashi heard Yahiko land next to him. "What is the meaning of this Kakashi?" The Daimyo asked in outrage. "Simple, Nobuhide you have violated the sanctions of the treaty between our two nations and have tortured your people for long enough!" Kakashi answered vehemently. "So it's betrayal isn't it Kakashi." Nobuhide stated as he remained in his throne. "Why is he so calm?" Kakashi thought as he walked across the stage. "Stay away from the girl Kakashi!" Nobuhide ordered as he began to get up, but then stopped as his cloak was caught on something. "I suggest you stay still, lest my student be forced to put a Knife in your throat instead of your robe." Kakashi warned as he reached Kai. "Kakashi…" Kai moaned as she noticed him next to her. "They must have tortured her severely." Kakashi thought as he drew a knife from his pouch. "If it wasn't for the rope, she wouldn't be able to st-…Dammit." He thought as a sharp pain went up his back. "Pathetic Kakashi, I thought that such a legendary ninja such as yourself would be able to see past my disguise." Kakashi looked behind him. The cause of his pain was Namikaze who had shoved a kunai in his back. "Now stop toying with me and show yourself!" Namikaze demanded as he twisted his kunai. Kakashi's body collapsed as it turned to water. The real Kakashi then crawled out from under the stage. "Dillion Namikaze, S-rank rogue shinobi wanted in all 5 great nations for various crimes such as assassination, kidnapping, and murder." Kakashi stated as he jumped next to Yahiko. Glancing at the discarded pink robe he added, "I didn't expect that you would be hired to be the Daimyo's mistress." Namikaze laughed and answered, "Even that fool couldn't pay me enough money for that!" He then moved in front of the Daimyo, playing with the knife that had stabbed Kakashi's water clone. Namikaze had a reddish brown full body-suit with metal sheets on his arms and legs. He also wore a neck-guard which surrounded his vital area. However, what was different about him was his eyes which were two black holes. "So Kakashi you don't think that you're going to assassinate the Daimyo do you?" He asked, then narrowed his eyes. "Because if you do it won't end well for you!" Glaring right back at Namikaze, Kakashi whispered back to Yahiko, "I'm going to take Namikaze. Once he and I are far enough away I want you to cut Kai down." Seeing Yahiko nod, he faced Namikaze. "Dillion, this is your last warning. Move aside or die!" Kakashi threatened as he drew a kunai knife. Dillion had other plans however. "Enough talk Kakashi, let the bloodbath begin!" He shouted as he charged forward. Bracing himself, Kakashi prepared for a long and bloody conflict.
"Jonin level combat, this ought to be interesting." Yahiko thought as he watched Dillion charge at his master. "Still, it sucks that I have to save this dead-weight. I'd rather be fighting with Kakashi." Even though he knew that he didn't stand a chance against Namikaze, his mind itched for a chance to fight. He looked over at the two jonin as they converged. Namikaze using his momentum had managed to tackle Kakashi and was on top of him. "It's not going to be that easy." Yahiko thought. Kakashi on his back placed both legs on his opponent's chest, rolled backward, and kicked sending Namikaze towards the other side of the arena. Using the momentum from his kick, Kakashi rolled backwards onto his feet. He leaped towards Namikaze intending to catch him off balance, however Dillion moved his legs upward as he flew back-flipping through the air and landing on his feet. Metal clashed against metal as Kakashi's Kunai met Dillion's jagged dagger. "Not bad Kakashi, but that's to be expected of the Leaf's Sharingan warrior!" Dillion acknowledged, sneering as he struggled with Kakashi. That didn't last long. All of a sudden, a clone appeared behind Kakashi and began to rapidly make hand-signs. "Water Style Water Dragon Jutsu!" Kakashi exclaimed as his clone finished signing. "Incredible!" Yahiko thought watching as the water dragon appeared. "To maintain a shadow clone and such powerful water style jutsu. So this is the power of a jonin!" Kakashi then jumped back as his clone disappeared and took over the jutsu. Manipulating the Dragon, it began to charge through the air towards Dillion. Dillion dodged to the right and began to charge Kakashi. Barely staying ahead of the dragon, he was forced to run with his side against the wall as the dragon came closer and closer. Kakashi then went for the kill as the dragon reared back and charged. However, Namikaze leapt onto the wall evading the dragon as it crashed into the wall and collapsed. With the dragon gone, he charged at Kakashi running across the wall. "Sorry about your pet Kakashi, but it's going to take more then that to stop my bloodlust." Dillion said laughing as he started to make his own hand-signs. "Let me show you a real jutsu." Pulling out a several shuriken, he threw them at Kakashi. "Earth Style, Blade Shower Jutsu!" All of a sudden mud rose out of the ground and surrounded the shuriken. "Those throwing stars are coated in mud. No doubt he's using the mud to greatly increase their sharpness and his control." Yahiko thought as he watched them fly towards Kakashi. "What will you do now Kakashi?" "Your leader's not bad, though that is to be expected of Kakashi Hatake." The Daimyo said as he watched the fight. "Though Namikaze has been holding back as well. I don't know if Kakashi can beat him." Yahiko just ignored him. "Keep talking and I'll put a kunai in your head. The only reason you're alive is because for some reason my master thinks that you should be given a fair trial." He then turned and faced Nobuhide, a dark look on his face. "I on the other hand am not so merciful. Watch your step." Yahiko threatened. He then turned back to the fight.
"Earth style Earth Wall!" Kakashi countered as he put both hands onto the ground. All of a sudden a giant wall emerged from the ground. "Perfect." Namikaze thought as he watched the shuriken pierce the wall. They almost made it through, but stopped just short of breaching the wall. Kakashi sighed in relief. However, Namikaze just kept running forward. "Your jutsu is pathetic Kakashi." He coldly stated. Pulling his fist back, he punched straight through Kakashi's protective wall. Kakashi who was thrown back by the debris, could do nothing as Namikaze lifted him up into the air, his hand around Kakashi's throat. "But how did yo- hack." Kakashi asked choking for air. "Simple, that wall was your biggest mistake. When you set that wall, you lost track of me. I weakened an area of the wall by controlling my mud shuriken, then powered straight through it." Dillion answered sneering. The battle was over, he had won. As he began squeezing the life out of Kakashi however, he noticed something strange. Kakashi wasn't the only one choking. "What is going on?" He thought as it became harder to breathe. Something hot was burning his lungs. Suddenly he heard someone shout, "Fire Style, Burning Ash!" Searching for the source, he looked up at the wall. There was Kakashi standing on the wall, a hand-sign being made. Namikaze felt his hands feel empty as the choking Kakashi disappeared in a puff of smoke. "He must have made a shadow clone when we lost sight of each other." Namikaze thought as the smoke made tears stream from his eyes. Coughing, he felt something graze his hand as he covered his mouth. His eyes widened in fear. "Dammit, he hid bomb tags in the smoke!" Kakashi made a hand-sign. "Game-over Namikaze, you lose." He stated coldly as he claimed victory. There was a great explosion as the heat from the jutsu finally ignited the bomb tags. Dillion Namikaze was no more.
Yahiko looked on as Kakashi finished off Namikaze. "He controlled the whole fight. The whole time he was never in any danger." He thought out loud. "You think so huh?" Nobuhide asked, skeptical of Kakashi's victory. "There's a reason that he is called the slayer of the red earth." Yahiko looked on as the smoke cleared. Kakashi had jumped down from the wall and was walking over to the platform, intent on cutting down Kai. "Not a wise move turning your back on me." Someone suddenly said. Kakashi wheeled around. "Impossible! How did you survive?" He said stunned. "I wouldn't have if I didn't have this jutsu. Earth Style, Mud Dome." Namikaze answered. Yahiko looked over at him. Half of his body was sticking out of a dome made of mud. "He must have hardened it to protect himself from the blast, then softened it to look outside." Kakashi said in realization. "Still Dillion, this changes nothing." Kakashi stated as he drew a pair of kunai and hurled them at Dillion. But Dillion simply retreated into the dome and hardened it, causing the kunai to bounce harmlessly off. "You insult me Kakashi, trying to kill me with such a weak attack." Dillion spat from within the dome. "He's up to something." Yahiko thought as he watched Kakashi charge the dome. All of a sudden the air was filled with projectiles. "Earth Style, Earth Wall." Kakashi exclaimed as he blocked the projectiles in Yahiko's path. "Look out, he must be using some sort of special technique!" Kakashi warned as he looked back at Yahiko. " Dillion's distracted, Now's my chance!" Yahiko thought as he reached into his pouch. Pulling out a pair of Kunai, he pulled back and hurled them at the rope tied around her neck. "Alright, that ought to… What the hell?" Yahiko thought as he watched his kunai knocked out of the ground. "But the only one who could hav-?" He was so distracted that he didn't see the fist heading for his face.
Kai watched as Kakashi battled Namikaze. "The stories seem to be true, Hatake is a powerful ninja." She winced in pain as she turned her neck. They had given her quite a beating, but she had managed to keep the location of her village a secret. Again she struggled to break out of her bonds but it was no use. They had tied her up tight, with chains on her hands and feet and a noose around her neck. Which was understandable considering she had given one of the guards a black eye. "It was worth it." She thought to herself with a weak smile. All of a sudden she heard Dillion say, "I would have died had I not had this." Wondering what it was, she looked back to the fight. Her eyes widened in fear at the sight of the dome. "Why did my heart suddenly drop?" She thought as a coldness slowly crept in. Then she remembered, but it was too late as the air was filled with sharp earth projectiles. "This jutsu is..cough cough." She tried to say as she choked on some dirt. Though some debris had gotten through, Kakashi had stopped it with his Earth Style jutsu. "If I don't warn him about this jutsu, then we're dead." Kai thought. She was about to scream out a warning when all of a sudden she was lifted into the air. Instantly the noose began to tighten around her throat. At first she struggled to breathe, kicking her legs as if to swim upwards and escape the grip of the noose. Then she looked out at the horizon. "I can see the whole city from up here. It looks so peaceful." She thought. Knowing she had no chance, she stopped struggling. "Perhaps, I'll see my family again. Then I can tell them that I got their revenge." In the background, she heard the Daimyo say, "this is what happens to those who oppose my rule." Kakashi shouted, "Hang on Kai!" But she knew that he wouldn't be able to make it. If he moved then Yahiko would be killed in seconds. "At least I can finally be at peace, and yet…" Kai thought as blackness and doubt began to cloud her mind. "I'm sorry Kai, but your answer… It's just not good enough." She remembered him say. "Why, why would sacrificing my life for my revenge be wrong." She had answered so sure of her goal. But now… "It just doesn't feel right Kai." She looked to her right. There he was again, "Why are you doing this, why are you bothering me so much!" She shouted as she shook her head. She must be hallucinating from the lack of oxygen. "Because I promise you that I will protect you!" He had answered, looking straight into her eyes. Those eyes… That was why she had cared.
Kai blocked another attack from the boy. "This kid is amazing for his age, was he trained by the Daimyo?" She thought. It was supposed to be a simple hit and run mission. Hit the convoy, destroy the package, and then escape into the forest. They had never expected Leaf ninja to defend the convoy. "Is that… Fire Jutsu?" She panicked as she quickly shielded herself from the flames. When she was sure it was safe, she lowered her shield and noticed him smiling. "Why are you smiling?" She asked disguising her voice. All of sudden she felt something grab her from behind. "A shadow clone? Dammit." Quickly making hand-signs, she directed her sashes and stabbed the shadow clone before it could do any serious damage. "Phew, that was too close." She thought. However, the shadow clone had done more damage then she thought. All of a sudden he appeared from nowhere and slashed her control sash in two. "Dammit, he figured it out and cut the connection." She thought trying to react, but it was too late. He spin-kicked her sending her rolling backward. Kai slowly picked herself up and brushed her hair out of her eyes. "Wait a minute, my hair shouldn't be in the way." She thought confused. "You're a woman?" The boy said surprised. Sensing opportunity Kai planted a kick in his chest that sent him backwards. Smiling in victory, she turned towards the convoy with the full intent to burn it to hell… only to see a man charge at her. Sighing, she was about to warn the worker not to waste his life attacking a ninja when all of a sudden she found herself flat on the ground. The man had dived and used his momentum to take out her legs. She looked up at him, intent on plunging her black cloth knives through him. Then she remembered that the boy had spoiled that party. "Shit, I can barely move. I'm still tired from fighting that kid." She thought. The worker drew a kunai knife from inside his boot and raised his hand to deliver the final blow. Then out of nowhere a black shadow came and elbowed him in the stomach. Kai watched in amazement as the boy who had just minutes ago been her enemy, dismantled her attacker in seconds. "Lights out." He said as he planted a kick into the man's stomach, then knocked him out with a punch. "Are you alright?" He asked as he offered his hand to her. Looking up at him she was struck by his eyes. They were burning with a warmth that she had never seen before. "Those eyes." She thought as the strain became too much. Her head collapsed to the ground as she fainted.
She was jolted awake, the smell of blood stuck in her nostrils. She looked around her in shock. Kelly had her in a head-lock, a maniacal look on his face. She could feel the cold steel against her throat as Kelly moved a knife threateningly down her neck. She had never been this scared before. Not during the war, not when she had been in battle, not even when they had stolen her parents. She was so frightened that she couldn't breathe. Seconds passed by like hours as her eyes quickly darted from side to side taking in everything. A horrified girl, a surprised boy, a calm boy, and a masked man. However, her gaze rested on one boy pleading with him to help her. His green eyes met hers and all of a sudden she saw it rise again, that fire that warmed her soul. Despite the fact that there was a knife at her throat she felt…safe. All of a sudden the boy had disappeared, moving faster than the eye could follow. Kelly had barely finished running the knife down her throat when he suddenly breathed a sigh of pain. She was free, as Kelly fell back his grip loosened on her. She was flooded with emotions of relief, fear, and sadness at the same time. Overcome by the whirlwind of feelings and her previous fight, she began to fall over. But as the darkness overtook her, she couldn't help but notice the boy. Gone was the innocent fire that had been there. She knew that look, it was the one that she herself wore. "Those eyes, they're so cold."
"Kai!" Kakashi's shout jolted her out of her memories. She tried to call back but when she opened her mouth nothing came out. Her vision was slowly getting blacker as her lungs burned from lack of oxygen. She could feel a breeze as her body swayed back and forth suspended by the rope. "What is this empty feeling?" She thought. Then she realized what it was. It was the same feeling she had felt that day. She realized that Joe was right. "I-I don't want to die." She thought. However, it was too late. The darkness was closing in on her. One last time she struggled, moving her legs and neck. But her body screamed in pain, and she could do nothing to defeat the inevitable. Finally giving up, she felt herself fall into the deep pit of darkness.
"You blocked me, but how?" Kakashi heard Yahiko say as he saw Kai slowly rise into the air. "Hang on Kai!" Kakashi shouted. The Daimyo laughed as he threw his cloak to the ground. Underneath was a set of battle armor. "It's simple, I don't trust anyone especially Namikaze. I knew that when I gained power I would make enemies, so I had Namikaze train me as a ninja." Namikaze then chimed in, "You can't call yourself a ninja if you can't do ninjutsu!" Nobuhide looked over at Namikaze. "True, but my blade skill is more than enough!" He shot back. Drawing two medium length swords, he charged at Yahiko. Kakashi was about to join Yahiko but was nearly decapitated by a shot from Namikaze's dome. "Where do you think you're going Kakashi? You've got other things to worry about." "Dammit!" Kakashi cursed as he reached into his pouch. "I've got to cut her down now or else she's finished!" However, his heart sank as his hand hit empty leather. He had used up all of his kunai intercepting Dillion's air projectiles. "Kai!" He shouted. Then he saw it. Kai made one last desperate struggle and then went limp. Her eyes closed, Kakashi knew that she was gone. He lowered his head in mourning. "So much for that rebel whore. It's a pity though, she would have made a beautiful mistress." The Daimyo taunted as he threw Yahiko off of him. Then he added spitefully, "Much better looking than my old one." Namikaze smiled and answered, "Hey I take offense to that, I made that dress look good." All of a sudden Kakashi noticed a glint of light hit the ground. Following it he saw that light was reflecting off of a piece of metal. "Wait a minute, that's a kunai knife!" Kakashi thought, as he began to smile under his mask. "And it's heading for the rope!" Kakashi immediately scanned the rooftops, and then he saw him. In a shadowy blur, Joe launched off the wall chasing the kunai. It sliced clean through the rope cutting Kai free. "His timing has to be perfect, or else Kai's finished!" Kakashi thought. However, even with that thought there wasn't a doubt in his mind. Joe caught Kai and landed on the other side of the arena, out of harm's way. "Not today!" He coolly stated as he looked straight at the Daimyo. "Always playing the hero." Kakashi thought shaking his head.
"Kai! Kai!" Joe shouted shaking her as Kai woke up. She was confused. She had been falling through the darknes.. no she had been dying. She was sure of it… and yet here she was. Looking around she noticed a couple things. One that she was no longer choking to death, but also that she wasn't hanging in air. "Nice throw Sakura." Joe complemented as Sakura landed right behind him. Then she realized what had happened. "The moment that I blacked out must have been the moment that they cut me down. That's why I had that falling sensation." She thought. Looking up at him, she said. "Joe you came back…" Joe looked down at her and smiled. "Told you so." He joked. Kai managed to muster a weak smile. But then her head started to pound and she hissed in pain. Joe concerned put her on the ground. "Sakura, I'm going to join the battle. Wait for an opening and then get Kai out of here." He said as he threw his black cloak to the side with a flourish. He began to walk towards the fight ahead. "Joe, be careful." Kai said weakly as Sakura began cleaning her wounds. He simply waved without looking back at her as he drew his kunai. "Ah, so another runt joins the party." Namikaze said with a devilish smile on his face. Then he added, "I'm going to enjoy tearing you apart boy." Joe simply answered, "I'll remember that when my blade's at your throat." Kai looked at the arena. Yahiko and the Daimyo were fighting on top of the platform, their blades locked in a struggle. Meanwhile Kakashi was standing in between everyone and Namikaze, ready to throw up a wall in case Dillion attacked. All of a sudden, Joe began to charge towards Namikaze. "No do-" Kai tried to warn him as she reached a hand out. "Kai… don't pu…self. Too muc..stra." She heard Sakura say as she fell in and out of consciousness.
"Is she dead? I hope so. She was always a pain in the ass, especially when I trained her." Namikaze taunted as his head stuck out of the dome. "I've had enough of this guy!" Joe thought as he began to charge towards Namikaze intent on driving his knife through Dillion's throat. However, before he even got close Kakashi placed an arm in his way. "Don't even think about it Joe. This guy is way out of your league." He warned as he blocked Joe from advancing. "What do you mean? Sure he fought in the civil war against the rebels, but those were just a bunch of defenseless kids." Joe reasoned as he stared at Namikaze. "It's not that simple." Kakashi answered warily as he watched Namikaze carefully. "He also fought in the Great War." Namikaze's devilish smile was back on his face as Kakashi continued. "His name is Dillion Namikaze, but that is not his only name." Confused, Joe asked, "His only name?" Kakashi answered, "During the war, he was called The Slayer of the Red Earth. Because he once slaughtered a whole platoon with one jutsu." Joe looked over at Namikaze. "A whole platoon with one jutsu? What power!" He thought. "You know so much about me Kakashi, I should be flattered. Are you impressed by my power?" Namikaze taunted as he played with a kunai knife. "Try disgusted. 50 men died that day. 50 lives gone in the blink of an eye, and yet you laugh at it like it is fun." Kakashi answered angrily. "But how could he kill so many people and be so happy about it?" Joe asked. Though he had directed his question towards Kakashi, it was Namikaze who answered. "Because it is who I am kid." Namikaze answered laughing, then his smile was replaced with a serious look. "As a ninja, my job is to kill. We assassinate, defend, and sabotage but one thing remains true. True shinobi are cold murderers, weapons to be used at the bidding of our contractors. Why do you think I put up with all the crap that Nobuhide gave me. Why do you think I could torture innocent children and then pit them against each other." He said as he looked straight into Joe's eyes. Then he added, "Why do think I could kill you right here and now, a ninja right out of diapers, and not feel a thing. Because you are weak. Your eyes are conflicted, where mine are cold and resolute. For I am a true shinobi, a murderer." Joe and Dillion's gaze met for a brief second. "He's right, there is no give in his eyes." He thought. "Allow me to show you the true meaning of a shinobi!" Namikaze exclaimed as he retreated back into his dome. "What is he going to do?" Joe thought as he looked at Namikaze cautiously. "Earth Style, Earth Slayer technique!" All of a sudden a hundred sharp blades of earth rose out of the dome and headed straight for Joe. "Damn, what do I do now?" Joe thought. However, Kakashi had already been signing the correct sequence and blocked them with an earth wall. "I told you that he was out of your league!" Kakashi stated, then looked up in surprise. Namikaze had just kicked Joe clear across the arena and was closing in for the last blow. "You should have paid attention the last time Kakashi. Your need to protect blinds you from victory!" Namikaze shouted as he began to descend from his leap, sword raised high. "Of course, he must have created a clone inside of his dome while he kept us talking." Joe thought as he pulled himself off of the ground. He heard a clang of metal and instantly looked up. Yahiko stood in front of him blocking Namikaze's clone. "Get up slacker, I won't block him a second time." Yahiko taunted as he struggled with the clone. "I don't need your help!" Joe answered as he grabbed his kunai. He then planted a kick in the clone's head as Yahiko crouched. Joe was about to finish it off when all of a sudden metal flashed in front of him. Reacting on instinct, he blocked a slash from Nobuhide with his Kunai. "Ah, the boy who was so concerned about Kai's execution. I hope you enjoyed the show." He taunted as he managed to push Joe on his back foot. However, that was what Joe wanted. Rolling on his back, he planted both of his feet on Nobuhide's chest and pushed sending him rolling off of the stage. "Now I've got you both!" Joe thought as he quickly made hand-signs. Feeling the heat rise in his stomach, he blew out a stream of fire planning to take them both out in one shot. However, Nobuhide just laughed at the weak stream of fire Joe shot out. Yahiko quick on the uptake, immediately took charge. "Wind Style Wind Scythe Jutsu!" He said as he blew out a powerful gust of wind. Namikaze though had other ideas. He raised up a wall made of earth which effectively blocked Yahiko's attack. "Sorry, but I can't let you kill my paycheck boys." Namikaze's clone said as he lowered the wall. "No matter what we try he can just block it with his wall. How are we supposed to take them down?" Joe wondered. "I told you Joe, you can't beat me because you aren't a true shinobi." Namikaze stated, then added. "And you will never be able to break down my wall because you are weak." Joe looked at him, then at Kai. "He's right, I don't have what it takes to be a shinobi. If I can't even kill, perform the most basic duty of a ninja, then how can I call myself one?" Joe thought as all of the moments where his weakness showed flashed before him. He didn't struggle as Namikaze's clone walked over and picked him up by the neck. "You're weak and you always will be." Yahiko had said, "You weakened your squad." Kakashi had said, "You're such a slacker." Sakura had stated. Lost in his weakness, Joe didn't even move as Namikaze threw him across the stadium. He landed back next to Kai, and was reminded of her words. "I will have my revenge, Joe. I don't care if it costs me my own life!" She had said sounding strong. "Could I have done what she did to survive? Could I have …killed?" Joe thought as he dropped to his knees defeated. "Joe, what's wrong? Stop slacking around and get up!" Sakura shouted with a worried tone in her voice. However, he didn't hear her. He didn't care about being a shinobi, because he knew that it was pointless. "I'm just too weak."
Kakashi looked on with relief as Yahiko stopped Namikaze's attack on Joe. "I have to be more careful. Still, this actually helps more then it hurts. He and Yahiko can handle the Daimyo well I keep Dillion in check." He thought as he looked back at Namikaze. "Your students are strong Kakashi, but as long as my clone is there they won't be able to kill the Daimyo. They're not like you and I." Namikaze said as he stuck his head outside of the dome. "I'm nothing like you Dillion, I don't kill for money or pleasure." Kakashi answered. "Oh really, then I must be thinking of some other Sharingan warrior. My mistake." Namikaze jeered as he began making hand-signs again. "By the way, you might want to look over at your all-powerful students." Kakashi at first was un-fazed, then he heard a crash. Looking back he saw Joe on his knees, a defeated look on his face. That moment of distraction was all Namikaze had been looking for. "I told you you were weak Joe. Now pay the price of that Weakness!" Kakashi looked back but it was too late. Namikaze had already launched a stream of projectiles, and they were headed straight for Joe. "I've got to do something! If those aren't stopped then they're dead." Kakashi thought as he began to move towards Joe. But inside he knew that it was pointless. "I'm not going to make it!" He thought frantically. He was right, as Dillion had once again stained the earth blood-red.
Joe was stunned. His gloves were stained with blood. However it wasn't his own. Looking up, he only asked one question. "Why Kakashi?" Kakashi looked down at him, and answered, "Joe I'm sorry. I failed you as a teacher." Noticing Joe's confused look he continued. "When you came to me and asked about killing, I didn't give you a true answer. I told you that…Shinobi are killers. I expected you to accept an answer out of a textbook." Kakashi apologized as he looked on at Joe. "I expected you to overcome it because of your strength." Joe was stunned. "My strength, what is he?" "It's alright Sakura, you don't have to cry for me." Kakashi stated strongly as he rose up and turned to face Namikaze. "Kakashi just protected us with his life…" Joe thought, and then it hit him. The reason why he had killed Kelly, defied Kakashi, fought the tracker ninja, and risked everything to save Kai was because he had wanted to protect his comrades. "The most important part of being a Konoha shinobi is to put the safety of other's before your own." Ibiki had told him. When he had saved Kai from Kelly, he hadn't done so for revenge, but to protect her. "Whenever the people I care about are in danger, that is when I ..am …strongest. I care for them? I care for them." Joe realized as images of Sakura, Kakashi, Ariana, and Kai flashed through his head. Joe's gaze drifted. Sakura was crying, Kakashi was bleeding, and Kai was drifting in and out of consciousness. Picking himself up off the ground, he drew his Kunai.
Sakura wiped the tears from her eyes. She could see the pain in Kakashi's face as he slowly got up. She noticed some sort of sticky red liquid on her hands and realized that it was blood spatter. "A real shinobi battle, this is vicious. If Kakashi dies then Namikaze will kill us." There were so many things racing through her mind. Kai's health, Kakashi's wound, Yahiko's situation. It was almost too much for her too handle. Seeing the blood on the ground fresh tears began to well up in her eyes. Then she heard someone say, "It's alright Sakura, I will protect my comrades with my life." Looking up she was shocked to see Joe standing in front of her. "What happened to him?" She thought. "And did he just call me a comrade?" Yet, unlike the complete wise-ass he usually was, this Joe was different. "He's so serious." She thought. She didn't even notice that her tears had stopped.
"Kakashi how are you holding up?" Joe asked. Kakashi began to answer, "I'm alright, but Joe if you're not up to-" "That's enough Kakashi, I will protect the people I care about!" Joe stated interrupting Kakashi. Smiling Kakashi said, "Very well,we need to take down that clone and the Daimyo." Joe concerned for Kakashi asked, "are you sure? What about Namikaze?" "Yahiko needs your help Joe." Then with a hint of malice added, "Leave Namikaze to me." With that she watched as Joe ran to join Yahiko. Yahiko was in trouble, he couldn't take on both Namikaze's clone and Nobuhide at the same time. Landing next to him, he said, "need a hand?" Yahiko nodded as Joe kicked Namikaze's clone off of Yahiko. "Took you long enough, slacker." Yahiko answered. "That clone never leaves Nobuhide's side, no doubt protecting his "paycheck". But those walls keep getting in the way." Joe thought as he came up with an idea. "Yahiko, remember our competition earlier?" Yahiko looked at him dumb-founded. "Who cares about that?" Smiling Joe said, "You up for a rematch?" At first Yahiko had no idea what he was talking about, but then he nodded. They began to charge. Just then, Yahiko noticed a barrage of earth projectiles come from the clone. "Watch out for the ear-?" Yahiko warned but was stunned as he saw Joe jump up and run on the side of the wall to avoid the earth shuriken. "Not bad Joe, not bad at all." Yahiko thought as he began signing. "Your climbing skill won't help you break down my wall!" Namikaze challenged as he brought his defense up. Joe just smiled and shouted, "ready Yahiko?" Yahiko immediately answered, "What do you think." They released their jutsu shouting at the same time. "Fire-style" "Wind Style" "Wind Scythe" "Flamethrower" "Jutsu!" All of a sudden a great gust of wind entered the arena. "If it didn't work the first time, then it won't work again!" Namikaze taunted. Then he noticed something strange. The wall was turning red. Joe couldn't help but smile as he saw the great wave of fire that followed, then put a more serious look on his face as he neared the wall. Or what was left of it. The wall itself had been melted down, leaving Nobuhide and Namikaze's clone wide open. "But how, that's impossible!" Namikaze's clone denied, a shocked look on his face. It didn't last as Joe jumped off of the wall and came down with a kick that sent him flying. Namikaze's clone was sent rolling across the ground until it came out of its roll. Well Yahiko struggled with the Daimyo, Joe pursued the clone. Pulling out his kunai, he charged at Namikaze. However, Namikaze was prepared and braced himself for a frontal attack. "You can't take me Joe, just because you broke down my wall does-" "I'll break more than just your wall!" Joe stated, determined to beat the clone. As he neared his target, Namikaze immediately went to grab Joe. "It's ove-" The clone tried to say as it lunged at Joe. But all it touched was thin air. Joe, expecting the lunge, had leaped to the wall at the last second. "Lights out!" Joe stated coldly as he launched himself off the wall. He lowered his shoulder and drove it straight into the clone's side sending them rolling. For a second, they grappled for position. But in the end Joe was on top. "What is this? You were on your knees two seconds ago!" Namikaze's clone shouted in frustration. "If you threaten my friends, then I'll kick your ass!" Joe coldly stated as he shoved his kunai into the clone's throat. Severely damaged, it turned back into earth as it sank into the ground. Joe stood and raised his kunai in victory. The fire had returned.
Sakura looked on in amazement as she watched Yahiko fight the Daimyo. With Namikaze's clone busy dealing with Joe, it was an even fight between the two. She watched as Yahiko ducked under a sword swipe and then planted a kick into the Daimyo's stomach doubling him over. The Daimyo then rolled around and tried to punch Yahiko, but Yahiko moved his head to the side and twisted his arm. "The tide's turning!" She thought smiling to herself. "Sakura, how is Joe doing?" Kai asked weakly trying to stand. Sakura looked over at Joe's fight. She saw him charge towards the clone. "It'll be alright Kai." Sakura reassured but she was still worried. "Even though that clone isn't as powerful as Namikaze, he's still a Jonin." She thought. Then Joe did something that completely shocked her. At the last second, he jumped to the side onto the wall missing the clone's lunge. "When did he?" She thought as she watched him take down the clone. Her attention was brought back to Kai as she grabbed Sakura's shoulder. Helping Kai stand, she heard her say in relief, "He did it, he turned the tide." Sakura looked back at the fight and saw Joe raise his Knife in victory. "Maybe he's not such a slacker after all." She thought.
Kakashi surveyed the battle-field. The tide had turned. Joe had finished off Namikaze's clone, and Yahiko had literally dis-armed the Daimyo. Looking back over to Namikaze he said, "It's over Dillion, your clone's dead and your employer in our custody. I suggest you give up and I might let you live." Namikaze laughed. "Do you really think I will surrender Kakashi? What is there left for me in prison, to become my cell-mates pretty little girl-friend?" He joked as he began making hand-signs. "I don't think so. You see, I still have the advantage!" Kakashi immediately considered his options. "He's going to use that jutsu again. I'm out of Kunai and Joe, Yahiko, and Sakura are in different parts of the arena which means another wall is useless." Kakashi glanced at his students and made up his mind. "It's time to finish this." He thought as he lifted up his headband, exposing his right eye. Then he began to make hand-signs. "Namikaze, you've killed too many men in one lifetime. Which is why I'm going to end it!" He stated coldly as he charged.
"What's that sound?" Joe thought as he landed next to Kai. "It sounds like birds chirping?" Curious he looked over to where the noise was coming from. Kakashi was making hand-signs that Joe had never seen before. "What is he doing?" Joe asked confused as Kakashi finished signing. Then he saw it. All of a sudden Kakashi was surrounded by a flat circle of blue electricity. The electricity was coming from his hand, which was surrounded in a transparent veil of electricity. "I don't know, it must be some kind of ninjutsu." Kai answered. Joe was mesmorized at the jutsu's form. "The chakra is so strong that it's visible!" He thought amazed. Then the circle disappeared, however the hand was still coated in electricity. Joe could only stand in awe as Kakashi with his hand close to the ground, began to charge straight at Namikaze's shield. "But how will he pierce the dome?" Sakura asked worried. Joe looked at the ground that Kakashi had already crossed. "I don't think the dome is going to be much of a problem." He said. "The force of the jutsu is so incredible that its tearing a trench in the floor behind it and he's not even touching the ground! What, what power!" Joe thought awestruck. As he grew close to the wall, Kakashi pulled his arm back and shouted, "Lightning Blade!" Joe watched as he thrusted his arm deep into Namikaze's dome as if it were water. "Did he get him, I can't tell?" Kai asked. The answer was revealed, when Kakashi pulled his arm out of the hole he had created. It was covered in blood. "That technique was amazing." Joe thought to himself as he watched Kakashi turn around. Then he saw it, Kakashi's right eye wasn't covered by his head-band. Instead, a red eye with three weird markings was revealed. For a second, Joe was apprehensive wondering if Namikaze had played some sort of trick. But then Kakashi said, "It's alright, its over." As he covered up the eye, Joe walked over to them. Namikaze, no longer able to hold up the dome lay on the ground slowly bleeding out. As Joe approached he looked up at him and said, "Are you proud of what you have acclomplished? Or are you just angry that you didn't get the chance to do it yourself?." Struggling, he added, "I was wrong about you kid, you aren't wea.. cough cough!. You're just like me." Joe disgusted looked back at him and asked. "What do you mean?" Namikaze coughed and then answered, "I saw you stab my clone. I actually enjoyed the viciousness of it. Reminded me of myself." Joe looked at him, and then answered, "It's too bad you missed the point." Namikaze coughed, "What are yo-" "I am not a murderer, but I will do what is necessary to protect those that I care about." Joe answered confidently as he stared straight into Namikaze's eyes. "That is what a Shinobi is to me, someone who puts the needs of others before himself." Joe watched him closely, studying his face. For once, Namikaze looked confused. He then opened his mouth, perhaps to retort, or even possibly apologize. But Joe never found out, as the only thing that left his mouth was blood. With one last exhalation, Dillion's eyes rolled back as he passed. "What do you think he was about to say Kakashi?" Joe asked. Kakashi sighed and took a step towards him, then collapsed. "Kakashi!" Joe shouted confused. Sakura rushed over supporting Kai on her shoulder. "What's wrong with him Joe?" Sakura asked worried. Then Yahiko came over, carrying Nobuhide on his shoulder. "What do we do with him?" Kai asked, a look of menace in her eyes. Joe's gaze moved from each of them, finally resting on the Daimyo. Making a decision, he said, "Take him into custody, we'll let the people of Saito decide his fate." "What about Kakashi Sensei?" Sakura asked. "He's still breathing, we need to get Kai and him medical treatment." Joe answered. Looking down at his master's unconscious form, he wondered. "Kakashi, what is wrong with you?" Resigning himself to a long day's work, he began to administer first aid.
It was night-time in Saito, and Kai was walking down the street at a faster pace than usual. She pulled her cloak further in as she walked to avoid attention. "Technically, I don't have to worry about guards anymore. But being a celebrity isn't much different. People still want to tear you apart, just for different reasons." She thought. It was funny in a way. At the public execution they had wanted her to swing in the breeze. But months later she was the tragic hero of Saito, who had sacrificed herself for victory. As she reached her destination, she turned into an alley-way. Picking up a small pebble, she chucked it at the window. There was no response however. Curious, she began climbing the wall until she reached it and looked inside. "Gone again, does he ever sleep?" She thought as she hopped down. Walking to the city entrance, she noticed the guard give her a wave. "Out late aren't we miss Kai." He said with a smile. "Just for a stroll Frank. Has anybody else gone for a walk tonight?" She asked returning his smile, a hint of hope in her voice. "Bout an hour ago I thought I saw a shadow go by, musta been seeing things." He answered scratching his head. Kai smiled genuinely and simply kept walking, leaving the guard sitting confused. After walking for a minute, she immediately turned into the forest. As she expected, there were a couple fire pits lit around a small clearing. "There he is." She thought as she saw Joe sparring with a tree. "Seems like you're struggling with that tree, want a real partner?" She teased as she lowered her hood. Joe didn't stop, as he kicked the tree. Instead he asked, "What are you doing here?" Kai then removed her cloak and leaned against a tree. "Why do you ask, and what are you doing here anyway? Shouldn't you be sleeping like a normal person?" She shot back confused. "Well to answer your second question, It's a process for combat. By kicking the tree I deaden the nerves in my legs, preparing them for a fight." He answered as he punched the tree, then continued, "As for the first, I thought you were avoiding me." Confused Kai asked, "Why would I do that?" Joe kicked the tree twice as he answered, "Because of my decision with the Daimyo. I heard you and Connor got into a big fight over his fate." Then he stopped and leaned against the tree. Looking at her, he added, "Don't lie to me, I saw that look in your eyes when you asked me what to do with him." Kai looked down for a second, then said, "You're right. I will never get my family back. I will never get my childhood back." She wiped her eyes then continued, "I will never get my innocence back." Confused, Joe said, "That still doesn't explain why you aren't avoiding me." Kai looked up at him and answered, "For years I had convinced myself that revenge was what I wanted. That I wanted to take my blade and shove the cold steel into the Daimyo's throat. But…" Joe taking a swig of his canteen urged her on, "But?" "But then I felt the blade at my own throat, the fear running down my back as cold steel brushed my own neck." She paused for a moment then continued. "And you came and saved me at a steep cost. But though it took so much from you, you refused what I did not. You told me that my reason for living was not good enough." Joe capped his canteen and leaned back against the tree. "When I was hanging, I thought that I would be happy. Even though I would be dead, so would the Daimyo. But you ruined that." Confused Joe asked, "What do you mean? What does this have anything to do with me?" Kai looked at him and answered, "When you killed Kelly that day, your eyes were so… cold. I was mad. Mad at the Daimyo for taking away the innocence of another child… and mad at myself for not stopping it. That was why I cared…" She looked at Joe, she had his full attention. "But despite the fact that it cost you, you still refused revenge. I was shocked. Why would you not want something that was rightfully yours?" "Kai" Joe was about to say something but she cut him off. "But when I saw you fight Namikaze, when you got up after he called you weak. When you mastered a technique which had given you so much trouble. When you stood I saw that the fire of innocence had returned to your eyes. And it was then that I realized something." Joe replied, "What was it?" Kai looked into his eyes and answered, "That the fire was not your innocence, it was your will." Smiling she walked over to him. "Thank you for saving me Joe, in more ways than one." She said as she approached him and kissed him on the forehead. Laughing at his surprised expression, she teased, "What's the matter, have you never been kissed by a girl before? Or perhaps you're into other things?" "Oh shut up. The next time someone tries to kill you, I think I just might let them go through with it." He shot back. Kai smiled as she looked at him. For a second he had a peaceful expression on his face, but it immediately hardened as he brought his guard up. "He may be stable, but he's still hurt on the inside. It must be because of his parents." She thought. For a while they just sat there, looking up at the stars. As she looked at the sky she sighed. For the first time since her family's death, she was at peace.
"Hurry up slacker, you're going to be late." Sakura shouted at him as he finished packing. "Buzz off Sakura I'm almost done." He answered as he shoved his kunai into his sheath. He and Kai had stayed out for a while and though he would never admit it to Sakura, it was his fault for over-sleeping. "I don't understand how someone can sleep in until 2 o clock." Sakura nagged as she put her hands on her hips. Then she added with a hint of a threat in her voice, "You weren't taking advantage of Kai were you?" Joe smiled and answered, "How would you even know if I did?" Sakura was immediately on the defensive. Turning a shade of dark pink, she shouted, "Of course I know about that stuff!" Joe smiled, "This is just too easy." He thought as he said, "Oh, so you admit that you are a pervert." "Joe you bastard!" Sakura fumed as she was about to punch him. Joe braced himself for the impact expecting the worst. But instead she just knocked him a little. Turning around, she yelled, "If you're not out in ten minutes I'll sick Kakashi sensei on you!" Joe just rolled his eyes, "When is she going to understand that if I actually blocked her she might hurt herself. Oh well, guess I had better get moving." On the way out though, he wondered why she hadn't hit him harder. "Normally she shoots to kill... Oh well don't really give a crap." He thought to himself. Rushing out, he saw Yahiko, Sakura, and Kakashi waiting for him. "It's about time, I thought I told you ten minutes." Sakura said. "Who do you think I am, your slave. Think again." Joe shot back. Kakashi sighed and said, "Let's just cut him some slack guys. He did perform the first aid that helped Kai and I right?" "But master, he sti-" Sakura was about to say, but someone cut her off. "That's enough Sakura." Yahiko interrupted. Joe, Sakura, and Kakashi all stopped walking at the same time. They were completely dumbfounded by Yahiko. "What's wrong?" He asked as he looked back at them. "Di-did you just stand up for me?" Joe asked awestruck. "Don't get used to it slacker." Yahiko answered stuffing his hands into his pockets. "Man, what happened to these three. One second they all hated me and now they have my back. That's…strange." He thought as he put his own hands in his pockets. Yet he realized that it felt good also, to know that someone had your own back. Smiling to himself, he began walking with the others. As they reached the city gates, they noticed that a crowd had gathered at the entrance. "Leaving so soon Kakashi?" Connor asked as he walked up and offered his hand. "Well I was trying to avoid a high councilor." Kakashi joked as he took it. "Now why would you do that?" Connor asked. "Simple, I hate politics." Kakashi answered as they released each other's hands. "As do I, things were so much simpler when I was leading the resistance." He said sadly, then added sarcastically, "Perhaps I should go mad with power? It would make things easier." Kakashi answered, "Careful, that's the kind of thinking that Nobuhide delved in to." Connor sighed, looking at the city he answered. "We have come such a long way and yet we still have so far to go. But the people of this land are strong, and they will endure. We will find a way." "I wish you the best of luck. I also hear that you have petitioned to join the land of fire. I am sure that Fire Daimyo Date will be most pleased." Kakashi answered. Connor smiled, "Yes, Stone and Leaf has always been allies. But our stubbornness kept us apart. After meeting your student I realized that the time for barriers is finished. We must join forces for the betterment of both our peoples." He answered looking at Joe. "Now you really sound like a politician." Kakashi said as he patted Connor on the back. "I hate you Kakashi." Connor answered as he moved on over to the three genin. "You three are powerful ninja for your age, and you will always be heroes of this nation." He congratulated as he shook each of their hands. However, when he reached Joe's he paused and said, "Your eyes burn with a strength that I had lost. But thanks to you it is back." Then he looked in Joe's eyes and added, "Hang on to that strength. It will do you well in the battles to come." Joe simply answered, "I will." With that Connor went to the front of the crowd and began to wave them off. Turning around, Joe was about to walk away when all of a sudden someone grabbed him from behind. Struggling to escape, Joe looked behind and saw it was Kai. "Would you let go of me, I told you that I was leaving today." He said as he broke her grip. Then, in front of a fuming Sakura, an uncaring Yahiko, and a smiling Kakashi, Kai kissed him on the cheek. The crowd ate it up, roaring their approval. "Goodbye Joe, thank you for everything." She said as she hugged him one last time and walked back over to Connor. "That jerk, I told her not to do that!" Joe thought to himself, then thought out loud, "I'm going to kill her!" "That's a little harsh Joe, I believe that she was just saying thank you." Kakashi slyly said. Sakura was nowhere as generous. "Not if I kill you first you disgusting excuse for a person! I can't believe you took advantage of her insecurity likethatonlyapervertwoulddosuchathingtoagirl…!" Sakura shouted as she started to chase him. "Easy Sakura you're going to hurt yourself." Joe answered as he ducked under one of her swings. "Hold still so I can give you what's coming to you!" She answered cocking her fist. Joe smiled as he dodged another punch. Even though everything seemed the same, he knew that things were going to be different from now on. He wouldn't let it turn out any other way.
Kai smiled as she watched Sakura and Joe go at it. She knew that he would get riled up if she kissed him in public. Sakura losing her temper was just an added bonus to the mix. "He sure has a way with the ladies huh Kai?" Connor joked as he watched them leave. "Yes he does…" Kai answered dreamily. "It's too bad that he's so young." She thought then shook her head. "So joining the Leaf is the first act of the council huh?" She asked. Connor smiled and answered, "Nope, the diamond mines are our prime concern right now. They have the potential to save our Land, maybe even help the Leaf rebuild." He answered. "So then what was the first act?" She asked. Joe and his squad had already turned and disappeared into the forest. "While, that village needed a name remember? And seeing what we owe the Leaf Ninja I pulled a few strings and made an honest, unbiased suggestion." Kai gave him a knowing look, "What did you name it?" Smiling, Connor answered, "Donnelly. It was a unanimous decision. The village is barren, with only stones and rocks to draw from. But with enough hard work it could become the key to our success." Kai laughed and answered, "I like it, it's a fitting name." Then her tone grew serious. "What about the Daimyo's sentence?" Connor answered, "Jailed for life. He won't be getting out anytime soon, I'll make sure of it." Kai noticed him turn and leave. Curious she asked, "Where are you going?" Connor stopped but did not turn back, and answered, "To tell them that I won't let their sacrifices be in vain. So that they…and I can rest easy." With that, he left for the cemetery. "He goes there too often, no wonder he can't get over them." Kai thought as she turned back towards the city. "The village of Donnelly huh? Knowing his stubbornness, I wouldn't be surprised if it grew larger than Saito someday."