Hey everyone, how is everyone? I am doing pretty good on my side of the computer. I appreciate all those who reviewed, and appreciate some suggestions I have received. I do hope to receive some more suggestions in the future to see if I can mold them into the story, but I am sad to say that my e-mail is really messed up right now. I can't read any email without the site freezing on me, so I'm going to have to work with it, or just use another computer to check for e-mails or something. Now I do not want to keep everyone waiting for where I left off. Now without further-a-do. Lets get the action on the roll.


( Konoha - Early Morning )

Two blond haired woman stand amongst the trees within the village of Konoha. The elder of the blonds gazing with a..sadistic smirk causing the young to have a shiver crawl up her spine. Tsunade gazes toward Ino as her smirk crawls open increasing in size. "As I have stated earlier. Your training will be drastically increased. This training will do two things. You will either grow at an exponential rate, or...you will break."

Ino shivers at what she has got herself into, yet she will press on. She must become stronger for her friends and family. She will be damned if she cowers out before the training has even begun. Tsunade acknowledges her determinate in her eyes with a nod. "We shall start with the basics once again, but this time we shall skip level one, and head directly into level three. I am sure you have seen this exercise before. It is used to force your body to adept in dodge with instinct." Ino nods as she has horrible memories of this training. Gazing toward Tsunade she notices three times as many round objects from her first training exercise. She also notices however another stack towering over Tsunade's height.

"This level is far more brutal than the first. I shall give you one last option. You have the choice to walk away from this training. If you shall proceed." Tsunade's eyes narrow slightly toward the platinum blond woman. "I shall not be held responsible for any fatal injuries you shall receive."

Gulping down a wad of air in her through she glares toward the busty blond. "I do not care if I am maimed and beaten from your training. I will plow through and become stronger, so I will be strong enough to help my friends in their time of need. I will be damned if I am a hindrance to my team or my friends again!"

Tsunade strengthens her gaze toward the young blond. Studying her features for any signs of faulture. Finding none, she nods toward the young woman. "Very well. Now this training is the same as the first. You are to dodge everyone of this objects I fire toward you. If you are even nicked by one the training will begin anew. This part however requires aid from another for the difficult. Which I have found just the right partner to help me."

Sweat seeps down Ino's cheek wondering who the partner is. Surely it must be some of the most sadistic to aid in such brutal methods, but who? Ino Catches a glimpse of Tsunade turning her gaze down toward her left leg. Ino follows her gaze. Her eyes widen before she lets an 'aw' at one of the most cutiest sight she has ever seen. Standing near Tsunade's left foot is Ton ton, yet her outfit makes her all the more cute from her normal white beads and red outfit. Ton ton has on a white martial arts uniform as a white headband is wrapped to her head. With black inked writing spelling out 'Fight!'.

Ton ton lets out an 'oink' which only causes Ino to coo at her affectionately. Tsunade smirks as an her eyes twinkle dangerously. "Do not get to affectionate with Ton ton. After this day is over you will despise her, and loathe her existence." Ino ponders how could she despise such a cute creature? Ton ton is one of the most gentle animals she has ever come across. Though she has rarely seen any for that matter. With the sound of a clap she looks back toward Tsunade. "Now then. Ton ton, dear would you mind getting into position to begin?" Receiving an 'oink' and a nod. Ton ton scurries over toward the vastly large pile of round objects.

"Ino, I will warn you once and only once." Looking toward Ton ton she nods as the pig tosses one of the objects with her snout toward Tsunade. Reeling her left fist Tsunade quickly smacks the object with all her strength toward Ino. Acting on Instinct she dodges toward the side as the object wizzes pass her head. She feels a tingling liquid ooze down her cheek. Placing her finger tips she notices its her blood, but the object didn't even touch her! Her eyes widen as she turns toward a large echoing boom behind her, yet the boom was the least of her worries. Many of the trees in a row had a large complete circle in their trunks. Showing the object plowing through with little resistence. "I will shall not hold any of my strength."

Ino turns back toward Tsunade as sweat begins to pour from her scalp and body. Wondering if she will survive to have lunch for the day. Tsunade quickly punts one of the objects infront of her as Ton ton tosses her another object to her. "Lose focus and lose your life!" With that statement said, Ino begins her torture to increase her skills, yet all the while wondering if she will even live. Yes, today will be a long day.


( Mi'hean Highroads Inn - Morning )

Batting his eyes upon from the invading sun the white haired man stretches in his bed before sitting up. With a yawn he pops the kinks out of his joints with a grunt. Perhaps he is getting just a tad old. Not much, but just a tad. Hopping up to his feet he once again stretches to loosen his muscles not his joints. No no he is not that old to have to stretch out his joints more than once. Atleast that is what he keeps repeating to himself. With the sound of a knock he walks toward his door to greet his first visitor early in the morning.

Upon opening the door he is met with a woman with light brown hair toward her shoulders. With different colored eyes, and a sweet smile. "Good morning, Jiraiya. I do hope I did not disturb you if you were sleeping."

Jiraiya shakes his head now wearily as he rubs the back of his head. "Morning, and no don't worry about it. I had just woken up as soon as you knocked, so no harm done. Now then what would such a pretty lady like you want with me in the morning?"

Yuna smiles sweetly at his compliment. She wonders to herself if this is what having an uncle would feel like. Even if she has one she had never really met him, and doesn't know how he would act toward her. Placing her hands behind her back she rocks on her feet happily. "We were going to have breakfast, and I was wondering if you would like to accompany us to breakfast. I did not want you to feel left out."

Jiraiya smiles faintly to himself. 'This girl is way to kind for her own good. It is a good thing she was born in this dimension, and not ours. No doubt she would not be this kind if she was. Most likely would of been either killed, or worse catched by some thugs.' Crushing his thoughts he nods toward the woman. "Yea, thanks. I would love to take you up on that offer. Besides how can I refuse if I have no means to feed myself, right?" Jiraiya chuckles to himself as Yuna lets out a soft giggle at his small joke.

"Shall we be on our way?"

Jiraiya raises his finger up toward Yuna. "Give me a moment will you? I need to freshen up a bit since I just woke up. You know clean my face, and brush my teeth. Unless you don't mind morning breath at the table?" Jiraiya chuckles again as she begins spouting nonsense unknowning what to say. She doesn't want to come off rude, but..she does not want to smell morning breath. Reaching out he ruffles the woman's hair with his hand. "Hey, don't get so worked up about it. I was just teasing ya. Though give me a moment." Receiving a nod Jiraiya closes his door quietly as he heads inside his small bathroom.

Filling the sink with water he gazes into the clear liquid. His reflection gazing back at him. 'I guess I really am getting old. When that girl is near I am unable to act like my normal self. Makes me wonder if I had settled down and had a girl. Would she of turned out like her? I probably am old enough to be her father probably grandfather or something.' Grunting Jiraiya cups water in his hands splashing the liquid into his face. 'What the hell am I thinking about?'

Jiraiya hastely brushes his teeth before rinsing with water. With a sigh gliding his finger tips through his white hair he continues toward the rooms door. Upon opening it he finds Yuna patiently waiting rocking on her feet with a smile. Smiling faintly Jiraiya shuts his door as he nods toward the young woman. Yuna and Jiraiya pace down the hallway in silence as they head to meet with the rest of her group for breakfast.

Upon entering the dining area both are meet with quite a sight. Auron leans against a nearby wall nodding toward both Jiraiya and Yuna. Kimahri stands firmly at attention in a shady corner watching Jiraiya's every movement. Jiraiya waves with a humorious smile receiving a cold stare in return. 'Not a very talkative guy.' Gazing toward the table he holds in a slight chuckle. Wakka and Tidus fight over what appears to be a piece of sausage. Images of him and Naruto bickering at the table take form in their positions. 'Reminds me of Naruto and I.'

Feeling a soft tug at his sleeve his eyes are met with Yuna's concerned eyes. "Oh, sorry about that. Kinda zoned out there for a second. Is there a place for us to sit to eat?" Yuna nods to the tall white haired man as she points her feminine hands toward two empty chairs at the table. Jiraiya quickly leaps into the chair next to Lulu with his chin resting on his hand gazing in her direction. "Good morning, my Lady. How are you this fine morning?"

Lulu continues to eat ignoring the advancing man. Jiraiya remains passive waiting for a responce as silence lingers in the atmosphere. Lulu gently sets her food utensil onto her plate. Taking a table cloth she wipes her mouth clean of any stray food as a proper lady would. Gently sliding her plate inward toward the table she signals that she is done. "Good morning, Jiraiya. I am well as for yourself?"

Smirking Jiraiya takes a bite out of his breakfast infront of him. Chewing and swallowing before he responds. "I am doing well. I take it you had a good night's rest?" Jiraiya's resting hand twitches slightly on his smaller fingers as he becomes aware of her comrades gazing at the interraction between them. Gazing across from him he spies Yuna eating her food while her eyes curiously gaze at the two adults in wonder.

"I did have a good night's rest. Thank you for asking." Lulu softly pushes her chair out from the table. "If you shall excuse me. I must take my dish toward the kitchen so it may be washed." Standing to her feet soft beads emit from her movement as she places her utensils together on top of the plate. Jiraiya watches out the corner of his eye as she swirls around carrying her plates toward the kitchen.

"Complete shut out. Wouldn't you agree, Wakka?" Tidus mocks in an announcer voice.

Wakka crosses his arms seriously while nodding his head with a grim expression. "I have to agree, Tidus. That was a total shut out. I mean it didn't even start, ya. Can we even call that a shut out if it didn't begin?"

Tidus nods toward Wakka with a thoughtful expression. "How right you are, Wakka. I would have to call this...Rejection!" Tidus and Wakka erupt into laughter while leaning back into their chairs. Occasionally patting their hands on their table in laughter.

Jiraiya scowls slightly while forcing his food into his mouth roughly. His jaw snapping as he chews his food. "Yea, yea laugh it up while you can. You will regret it just you wait. Especially you blonde." Tidus snaps his head toward Jiraiya as his laughter ceases, yet Wakka's continues to bellow in laughter. Jiraiya smirks slightly as Yuna gazes toward Jiraiya with a mixure of concern and curiousity. "Besides Jiraiya, the Toad Sage doesn't go down that easy I tell you. Don't worry she will come around. Trust me."

Wakka and Tidus groan at the older man's saying. Both have high doubts he would come anywhere near Lulu's affection. Yuna chuckles softly amused at the scene as she finishes her breakfast. Yuna stands to her feet taking her plate in her small hands. Pacing herself she reaches to grab Jiraiya's finished plate, but he holds his hand up as he takes hers from her hand. Yuna opens her mouth to protest, but Jiraiya stands with both plates beating her in words. "Hey hey, what kind of gentleman would I be if I let a pretty Lady do all the chores? Not a very good one that's what."

Yuna bats her eyes slowly as she watches Jiraiya fade toward the kitchen with their plates. Tilting her head to the side she smiles sweetly. 'Perhaps he is the one Naruto receives all of his manners from.'

Jiraiya glides toward the kitchen with a triumpet smirk on his lips. 'Brilliant! Absolutely brilliant Jiraiya! You have made yourself seem like a true gentleman while you really just wanted an excuse to go into the kitchen.' Jiraiya giggles to himself. 'Now I just need to play off the 'accidental run-into' plot with that Lulu beauty, and I am sure to be in the bag!' Jiraiya approaches Lulu within the kitchen as he sets their plates for cleaning. Shifting his head toward Lulu in an attempt to charm he notices her already walking away from him. Jiraiya smirks toward the black haired beauty as she sways her hips naturally at her walk. 'Playing hard to get, eh? Makes this all the much better!'

"Jiraiya."

His ears ring at a soft voice behind him. With a small turn he is met with Yuna with her hands near her legs clasping together. "We are preparing to leave for our pilgrimage, and set off in a moment. Would you be accompaning us?" Yuna mixed colored eyes pierce into Jiraiya.

With a slight droup in his lips his hand instinctively rubs the back of his head. "Ah, about that. Well I really need to find my apprentice before he gets any further ahead than he is, so I will need to be traveling solo if I am to catch up to him." Jiraiya signs heavily as Yuna's hand gently clutches her silky cloth dress. Her eyelids hanging lowly with a sorrow filled frown on her lips.

"I see.." Casting her head down her light brown hair shadows over her unique colored eyes. An uncomfortable pause fills the room as Jiraiya rubs the back of his head once more. Jiraiya frowns deeply as Yuna pops her head up with a forced smile. "Of course! I apologize I had completely forgotten all about the reason you had come here. I'm sure there are many people waiting to see Naruto again. Including yourself."

A small pang collides into Jiraiya chest at the forced smile on her face. He himself had seen that smile many times during his first year of travels with Naruto. When the name of Konoha his village, or his precious friends he held within the walls of the village, were mentioned. He would always plaster that smile on his face boasting how he hopes they are doing well, and how he will surpass them all in his training. "I do not miss the brat to much, but I can not say that for some...acqauintances of his. You would not want to get on her bad side. Trust me." Memories of Tsunade beating Jiraiya towards death's door causes a shiver in his spine.

Yuna giggles softly with her empty smile at Jiraiya's small hint of humor. "If she is able to scare you so much. Then I will have to meet this unique indivisual." Her soft voice fills between the two as she giggles at his bizzare expressions, and his constant mutters about strong scary blonds. Her giggles dwindle into nothingness as her head once again tilts downward. "I suppose you should be on your way now. I am thinking you would not like to become my guardian?"

His eyebrow raises ever so slightly as his arms cross upon his broad chest. "Guardian? What are you talking about? I do not think any of you have mentioned what exactly a guardian is."

Yuna's small lips open to respond toward the white haired man, but is interrupted by a soft yet firm feminine voice. "Allow me to explain the duties of a guardian, Yuna." Jiraiya gazes toward Lulu having already noticed her presense as Yuna is slightly startled by her voice. "Pack what essentials we have brought. I have finished packing my belongings. While I inform what a guardian is, you pack your belongings, okay?"

Yuna lets out a small huff as Lulu gently ruffles her hair affectionately. Lulu's chest motions as her chuckle teases Yuna from her complaining of being older now. With a nod, Yuna bows toward Jiraiya lowly before excusing herself from the two adults.

"She's a good, kid."

Lulu smiles softly before shifting her stature toward Jiraya. "She is, and I would not trade her for the world." With a small smile Jiraiya nods in understanding. "Well enough of that for now. I believe you were wanting to know what a guardian is, correct?"

Tossing his charming part aside he begins to converse with the black haired beauty. "That is correct. After all, the more information a person has. The more prepared they shall be for the future." Jiraiya refrains from making any comments about information allowing a ninja to be the winner in a battle. After all a ninja who has more accurate information will be the one to walk away from a battle alive.

Lulu ears pick up shuffling sounds from behind her back. Altering her gaze to catch a glimps of the source of sounds. She notices her comrades are packed for the journey. Lulu shifts her body back to the white haired ninja as her beads cling with soft echoing sounds. "It would appear we are being waited on. Would it be best to continue our conversation upon the road? You would beable to gain some distance while you receive the information you require."

Jiraiya cups his chin in thought. Although he had already decided to follow through with that decision he just posses this stance in order to 'woo' the mysterious woman. "Very well. We shall continue this conversation on the road. We should hurry though. No telling where that idiot is." Both adults shift toward the door leading out of the inn, but they notice everyone but Yuna gone.

Yuna notices their slight puzzled look, and greets them with a smile. "Everyone is waiting outside. Come on you two are so slow!" Yuna giggles innocently as she teases the two adults.

Lulu chuckles softly as she ruffles Yuna's hair. "My, I did not know you could be so rude Lady Summoner." Yuna puffs her cheeks out as Lulu returns the tease with a more vocal chuckle. Lulu passes by Yuna on her way out into the world with a small smile upon her lips.

Jiraiya smirks as he reaches the young woman. "Hey, just because my age is creeping up on me. Does not mean I am slow. I will have you know, I'm one of the most fast ninja you shall ever find!" Jiraiya smirks while pointing himself with his thumb. Yuna is brought out of her little pout with a giggle as she walks out of the inn with a wave. "No one ever believes what I say. Why doesn't anyone take me seriously?" Jiraiya sulks to himself with his upper body sagging. With a sigh he ventures out into the unknown world.


( Mushroom Rock - Morning )

Wind whistles through smooth edge rocks. Gentle melodies soothing from the wind pass through the rocks as the sun begins to peek through the horizon. Ocean water adds sweet sounds to the melody from the wind as it grinds against the white sand. Such a beautiful sight in such a peaceful morning. Small animals waking from their night slumber. Running along the rocky walls and across the white sand beach. It is a glorious day to be alive.

"WAKE UP IDIOT!"

Sound erupts from within a small coven in a booming sound. Animals scatter from such an erupting shockwave of sound into their respective dwellings. Within the small cove three teenagers are found within. Two female teenagers fully alive and awake as the third male is soothing a large bruise on his head. Weariness brightly radiating upon his face with aid from a deep lion like yawn. As the male turns his head toward the fiery red head of the females his lips smack together before speaking.

"Mah, did you really have to hit me? You could of just..I don't know nudged me awake." With little to no effort he easily dodges a flying object aimed at the sun-kissed hair on his head.

"What do you think I did the first time to wake you up, idiot! Of course I tried to nudge you awake, but no!" With her right hand she thrusts out pointing accusingly toward the blond haired teenager. "You had to keep mumbling about five more minutes of sleep!" She is filled with a threatening aura. Her lips twitching into a fear causing smirk. The male teenager shivers slightly at the sudden change in her aura. "You also mumble something along the lines of...perverted hermit...Do you have something to say to me, Naruto? Huh?"

Naruto cowers in fear at the sight of the dangerous teenager. He could of sworn she had somehow grew closer toward him without leaving her spot. 'Damn it! I really need to break that habit! Stupid pervert always forcing me awake! I would not of picked up the habit of talking in my sleep about him if he didn't use brutal methods to wake me up!' A chill causing shiver squirms up his spine, but not for his rememberance of his mentor. Oh no. Its the deadly aura piercing his very being.

Naruto slowly crab crawls back. He had not noticed how close the fiery red head had got to him. Danger sirening out of her being as she inches closer toward him. Her eyes piercing through him dangerous. The feeling of killing intent crushing him like a tsunami upon a lone rock. "Now now I didn't mean anything I said. Honest! Its a habit I picked up from my teacher when he woke me up!" Sweat pours down his skin as the fire haired teenager continues to inch ever so close with a look of a coiled snake poise to strike.

"Okay okay, that is enough you two." Naruto scrambles to his feet as he hides behind his savior. Acting as a scared child he peers over her shoulder toward the deadly teenager. With the escape of a soft sight Paine shifts her shoulder away from Naruto. "If you two are done we need to clean up and get ready for the day. We have many plans for today if we want to be prepared for our operation."

Naruto nods his head quickly as he continues to peer over toward the red haired teenager. She pouts her lower lip as if she was a child being scolded, "Aw, but do we have to start now? I still want to strike fear into the very depths of his soul." Her eyes widen pouting in what many would call..cute.

Naruto and Paine both gaze toward her with expressionless masks. Naruto begins to ponder if this woman is right in her mind. Wondering if having her as a traveling companion was a wrong idea. With the escape of another sigh, Paine waves her hand turning her down. "You will have to save it for later Amber, but we have to make sure we have everything for our operation. Get your belongings together before we recon our surroundings."

Hazel and ocean blue eyes mix together with their eyes meeting together. Amber and Naruto both turn toward Paine with amusing expressions. "We are basicly ready as we are. I just need to freshen up myself. We have no belongings, so we are basicly ready to go." Naruto paces a few steps away from Paine allowing him to stretch his muscles and joints.

Paine's eyebrow twitches ever so slightly. "Very well, for I myself have very little belongings as well. Just a potion, or two, and my weapon of choice. Freshen up and we can scavage around the zone. Would be nice to know our surrounding before pulling anything off."

With a yawn and a stretch, Naruto nods toward Paine with a lazy expression upon his face. "Yea yea, I'll get right on that." With a whistle he paces off toward a small bowl of fresh water to washen up for the day.

Amber paces toward Paine coming to a halt to converse. "So, what weapon are you going to use?" Amber peers searchingly at Paine. Gazing for any sign of a weapon upon her figure. "I do not see any weapon on you." Leaning back Amber places a finger upon her chin with a soft 'hm' as her eyes continue to search Paine's figure for a sign of a weapon. If people were to gaze toward them they would undoubtly get a misunderstanding.

Paine angles her head toward Amber. Paine survays her person not finding a weapon upon her as well. "I could say the same for you. There is no weapon upon your person, but to answer your question. I'll be using an unique sword my brother gave to him long ago." A brief pause fades as Paine gazes toward interesting rocks. "What will you be using?"

Amber grins as her gloved knuckles crash against each other near her chest. "My fist are my weapons. All I need are some gloves or gauntlets and I am ready to pumble anyone!" Amber thrusts out her fists in punches with a playful grin plastered upon her face.

"Uh huh.." Amber puffs her cheeks out at her casual dismissal. "Seems we are both close ranger combatants. What type of fighter is Naruto? If we come to a situation we need to work together. It would be nice if we knew how each other fought." Both female teenagers adjust their gaze toward the voice of their third member.

"You're right about that. Would be a good thing to know how we battle to work together. Teamwork can decide a lethal battle after all." Naruto runs his hand through his blond hair. Memories of his friends all back in Konoha bring a slight pain to his chest. "I like to consider myself a close-range fighter. I use my fists to fight as well." His thoughts swirl toward a conversation held not long ago. "I do have a weapon just not to sure how to bring it out."

Amber bats her hazel eyes as she gazes toward the blond hair teenager curiously. Paine raises an eyebrow ever so slightly. "What do you mean you can't bring it out? From what I know. There are no weapons that you just bring out from out of no where."

Scrunching his face he looks up toward the clear blue sky in thought. "Do either of you two know anything about Eidolons or Guardian Force?" He is meet with an 'err' from Amber as Paine remains silent. He assumes she doesn't know as he lets out a deep sigh. "Suppose you two do not know what those are then." His shoulders sag with what little hope for some information was lost. 'Obviously they would not know. Milleniums of years is way to long for anyone to know.'

"The Guardian Force were a group of mystical beasts who faught along side a group known as SeeD in ancient times." Naruto snaps his head toward Amber. His blue eyes studying her and what she had spoken. Paine glances toward Amber mildly interested in what she has to say. although what Paine doesn't know is the information is thousands of years old. "The Guardian Force are able to be junctioned to a member of the SeeD fraction, increasing their physical and mental strengths as well as aid them in battle when called upon. Each of the Mystical Beasts became a Guardian Force in their own unique way."

Naruto motions slightly closer toward Amber interested in knowing more what she has to say, and if it is all true. "How do you know that? Where did you hear about this? Do you know of an Eidolon or Guardian Force known as Alexander?" Naruto continuesly bombards Amber with question after question. Wanting to know what is happening to him with the Guardian Force and Eidolon he has in him.

Amber tilts her head to the side with her index finger gently scratching her fiery red hair. "Um..not sure how I know that, or where I heard it. As soon as you said Guardian Force some information just popped into my head. It is really weird since I have never heard of that word till now." Amber looks up with her face scruntched up in thought.

Naruto leans further in to ask more questions, but is interrupted by Paine. "Well enough of that. We should be heading out about now. If my information is correct the operation will begin in about two to three hours. We will need that time to recon our surroundings, and to prepare ourselves for any type of situation to arrise."

Naruto gazes toward Paine's crimson colored eyes before shifting toward Amber's hazel eyes. His ocean blue pierce her hazel eyes intently. Amber tilts her head to the side blinking wondering why he is staring at her so. With a sigh he runs his hand through his blond hair. "Alright, so what do we do first? Reconaissance?"

Paine shifts her direction as she paces herself toward an unique sword leaning near her belongings. Taking the sword up she straps it onto her waist belt letting it sway loosely. "Yes, that will be the best course of action." Paine grasps a nearby rolled up map. Pacing over to a smooth rock; she unravels the map out as Amber and Naruto scurry to observe. Paine points toward an area resembling a beach. "This will be the area I'll reinforce." Tracing her finger along the map she directs toward a area resembling a cliff. "This will be your zone to reinforce Amber." Amber gives Paine a nod while studying her area. "Stay on alert while you are in that area. Nearby are the sinspawns. I have little doubt they will break free, and when they do you'll have to aid in bringing them down if possible."

Amber grins confidently while tapping her fist onto her chest. "Leave it to me! If that fiend gets free I will take him down, no problem!"

Paine nods toward Amber with a small smile, "Alright, then I'll leave everything in your hands." Motioning her hand she folds the map repeatedly into a thin piece of paper before she pockets the paper into a small pouch on the right side of her waist. "Now then does everyone know their areas?" Amber nods giving a mock salute as Naruto blinks at Paine.

"Hey wait a minute! What about me? Where is my area?!" Naruto leans forward demanding to know his area for combat. "Don't tell me you forgot all about me! No way am I going to sit this out. I'll survay on my own then!" Naruto's chest heaves after his strain of shouts upon the two female teenagers.

Paine smirks causing Naruto to shiver. Her weight shifting onto her left leg with her right arm on her waist. With the tilt of her neck her face expresses amusement. "I thought it was obvious." Naruto gazes at Paine curiously with confusion showing on his brows. "Your area will be where ever the, what you call, 'Big ass whale fiend' shows up."

Naruto stiffens as he his gaze appears to see through Paine. One seagull passes over the cove letting out echoing squaws. "Oh.." With a cheesy grin Naruto rubs the back of his blond hair with a small embarrashed laugh. "I totally knew that. I was just messing with you guys." His laughter increases in sound as his head leans back in laughter.

Amber crosses her arms while looking elsewhere from the blond haired teenager. "Idiot."


( Mi'hean Highroads )

Birds sing their lungs out to the blue world. Their songs echoing for all who wish to hear. Bringing joyfulness to all those that hear their happy melodies. Jiraiya smiles as he gazes into the blue sky with cotton clouds gliding through the wind. Shadowing his eyes with his hand from the light he takes in a deep breath. 'This is why I love to be out of the village. Nothing like being out in nature without the hustle and bustle of the villages. If only nature had some hot women then I would never leave the trees.'

Bringing his mind back to the green lush land he recalls whom he is traveling with. With a first glance he notices two teenagers talking together with laughter and smiles. With a smile he looks off toward another direction noticing two adults talking among themselves. Small idle chit chat between Wakka and Lulu as they pace down the path. With a last angle shift in his neck he notices two other members enjoying the green lush scenery among the both of them. Kimahri and Auron walk in silence along the dirt filled trail as the other memebers enjoy themselves.

With a soothing breeze through his wild white hair he recalls his apprentice. Learning about what a guardian is he has no doubt Naruto would accept the proposition without hesitation. Hell it is a chance in a lift time to explore a new world. Adventuring a world that has never before been seen to any ninja besides Naruto and himself. If not for his mission to bring Naruto back to Tsunade he himself would be willing to accept the offer.

His smile lowers only a fraction of a centimeter. If anything this would do Naruto much good. People would not know of his burden. No one would discrimate against him for being an innocent victim of a tragedy. His dream to be respected by people would be easily fulfilled if he became a guardian. His heart is one of a kind. Wanting to help those who need it, and never backing down to someone who gets in his way to help another. Yes, he could have a better life.

But...friends will miss him back home in Konoha, he would have to abandon everything to begin anew, and worst of all...he would be hunted as long as Akatsuki is looming in the Elemental Nations. His eyes gaze into the blue sky filled with those cotton white forms the Naru would always watch in envy. His thoughts become lost in their beauty now know why the Naru are able to gaze into their joyous parade. His thoughts are shattered as his name is called. He had not noticed his sudden stop in movement while he was lost in his trance. A smile creeps onto his face as Yuna gazes toward him with her head tilted with concern on her face. "Yes, is there something you would like to ask?"

"Are you alright? You stopped walking for all of a sudden."

With a smile he nods his head at the young woman in his path. "Yea, I'm fine. I was just thinking that's all, so no need to worry about me." With a shift of his gaze he catches the remainder of the group in his eye sight. "How much further till we leave this area into the next?"

Auron tilts his head toward the side ever so slightly responding toward the white haired man. "We are not much further from Mushroom Rock. It is just a few ways off from our position."

With a nod Jiraiya inhales a large breath from a sudden breeze. With oxygen leaving through his lungs in a large exhale his lips rise into a smile. "Well then let us be on our way. I don't know about you people, but I would like to see a new place to explore." Jiraiya is floored with enthusiastic responces from his traveling compansions. "Then lets go!" Taking a step forward everyone soon follows Jiraiya's motion toward their near distination.

With the passing of an hour Jiraiya finds himself nearing a new area with large arches made of smooth rocks. Reaching their new distination he gives one last look into the sky of the Mi'hean Highroads. His lips droop into a frown as his eyes gaze into the dark clouds rolling into the white and blue sea known as the sky. His legs continue to move from instinct not to draw any attention to himself. 'Those dark clouds are not rain clouds. Brat, you better remember my lessons that I thought you about your surroundings.'

Returning his eye sight back to the ground he finds his traveling companions having what appears to be a debate with some foot soldiers of sort. Having fallen short a few meters he quickens his pace. His eyes dart toward his left warning of danger, but all he notices is a large cage on wheels with a large cover to hide its content. His dark eyes bore into the cover as he continues pass.

'Hiss'

Jiraiya's eyes narrow dangerously toward the cage behind him. His feet pause from the sound as a breeze rustles through his clothing. Light clings could be heard to a trained ear from his hidden kunai being drawn down his sleeves. 'What the hell was that?' His eyes return to normal as he quickly places his kunai back into position from the call of his name. Yuna waves in his direction with a slight worried face. 'She is not worried about me to much it is something else.'

His eyes swiftly pick up a new face within the group. Jiraiya's eyes narrow ever so slightly at the look on his face. That face he has seen many times before in the world of politics many times before. There is no malice from it of any sort, nor any signs of danger, but that look of a man hiding and plotting behind your back. Yes, this man is definitely someone to be watching closely. Plastering on his political mask he quickly paces toward the group with a small wave. "Hey, sorry about the delay. Sort of got lost in thought there."

Yuna shakes her head gently as her smile returns to her face as the man is near her. She does not know why, but she feels more at ease and safe with this man around her presense. Perhaps it is just from his personality. "It is quite alright." With a graceful swirl she holds out her palm toward the new acquantice of the group. "This is Seymour Guado. He is a Maester of Yevon."

Jiraiya bows slightly toward the man, "It is an honour. I am known as Jiraiya." Jiraiya notices the man's unusal hair colour. A light aqua color with a darker shade of blue robe inscribed with various kinds of coloured patterns upon it. Also his unique traits such as his veins showing through his skin and claw like nails. Jiraiya files it under a sort of bloodline limit. Yes, he would discover what he can about this man, but for now he will have to perform for the man. He may not know what the man's statues demands, but he was not known to be a master spy for nothing. He will play along for now till he discovers more intelligence about this man, and what exactly why he holds that mask.

Seymour does an unique bow toward Jiraiya as he stores it for later use in his mind. "No, the honour is mine. Are you a guardian of Lady Summoner Yuna by chance as well?" Seymour places his hands behind his dark blue robe showing respect toward the white haired man. He will need to be caution of this man. He seems to be different from the rest of Yuna's companions.

Jiraiya waves his hand negative toward Seymour. "I am sad to say that I am not. I am but a friend traveling by their side." Yuna's shoulders sag upon hearing the words from his lips. Of course she knows he is unable to be her guardian. He has his own life and problems he must deal with. He wouldn't not be able to put everything aside to travel with her. He has to find Naruto his apprentice. Naruto is one of her friends as well she would want them to meet up with each other. They must miss each other after all.

Seymour glaces toward a large cage being pulled nearby. Jiraiya instantly realizes the cage from earlier with a quick glance from the corner of his narrowed eyes. With a smirk Seymour glances back toward the group of travelers. "Might I inqure we further our converse at the Crusaders Headquarters? We may speak in comfort as I am sure you travelers must be weary from your journey."

Jiraiya nods filing away his thoughts for now, "I would be most honoured to accompany you toward this Crusader Headquarters to further our conversation." Jiraiya mentally lets out a tired sigh. Oh how he loathes formalities. Really who is the bastard who first came up with the idea of using formalities? Makes him feel his age even more so than having a teenage apprentice.

"Oh no, the honour is mine I assure you. If I may, I shall be taking my leave for I have many unfinished business to finish before the evening. I shall have a squad of the Chocobo Knights to personally escort you the Crusader's Headquarters. If I may not be as rude, but I must warn you. Do not stray affar from the Knights, for there are many powerful fiends wandering the path. They shall protect you, so do no worry." Receiving a nod from Jiraiya he performs his unique bow as Jiraiya mimics his actions perfectly. "I must bid you, Farewell for now." With a swirl Seymour paces away with the footsteps of a noble from the group.

With a passing pause, Jiraiya tilts his head toward an angle as his vision continues down the rock filled trail. "Sorry if I just spoke for you all. It is an old habit I picked up back home." White hair flows with a sudden wind forcing gloom clouds corrupting the pure white fluff in the ocean sky.

Yuna paces near Jiraiya's side with a confused expression. Leaning forward she places her hands behind her back with a innocent child-like pose glancing at the elder. "I do not mind. I would also like to speak more to a Maester of Yevon." With a hop she stands infront of Jiraiya as his gaze lowers down to her pouting expression, "I don't mind you speaking up like that, but you haven't told me about your home yet. I am really interested in where you are from. You and Naruto."

Jiraiya smirks as he ruffles her hair as if she was a pouting child. Which she was now at the moment. "Haha, all you had to do was ask. What did you think I wouldn't tell you?" With the puffing of her smooth cheeks Jiraiya lets out a chuckle. "Hey hey, I thought you were a grown-up and not a pouting child." Looking away with a cheesy grin he teases the young woman infront of him. "I suppose you are a child after all."

Yuna wiggles her head from his firm hand with an annoyed face. Her small hand glides a strind of hair from her graceful face, "Sir Jiraiya, I am not a child, so please do not treat nor joke as if I am one." Her facade is shattered at a stiffled chuckle from the man as his gaze is held away from her. "Are you mocking me?" Jiraiya bursts into a fit of laughter as Yuna gasps before scolding him only increasing his laughter.

Tidus leans over toward Wakka as they watch the scene unfold before them between Yuna and Jiraiya. His gaze continues to watch as he whispers over toward Wakka. "Hey, aren't they pretty close for only knowing each other for what about a day?" Wakka remains silent as his eyebrow wiggles for an unknown reason, "I heard that they were talking late last night too." Wakka's eyebrown twitches in a new pace as a tick mark appears on his forehead. "Maybe...he likes her or something? He is a pervert in my opinion."

Wakka snaps as he slams his foot into the ground repeatedly forcing Tidus to jump back. "Rrr-ahh! No way Yuna would ever like someone as him, or even think about it! She's way to smart and mature to even think of something like that." Wakka quickly turns to Tidus grasping his yellow jack with both fists with a ferious expression. "Isn't that right?! If he is a pervert then we will BOTH protect her from that pervert! Right?!" Tidus struggles to speak with his body being shook from Wakka's strength.

With the sound of calvary amongst the dirt and rocks the group shifts their gaze up the trail as they spy two bright yellow chocobos approaching them at a moderate speed. Jiraiya clears his throat as Yuna takes a step back slightly behind Jiraiya's side. As they the two chocobos approach to a halt at the group two female riders are revealed as a male pants to a stop from sprinting alonging.

Without hesitation the leading female rider has her chocobo shift to an angle direction to reveal herself to the group. Her dark skin with a matching dull red sparks an interest in Jiraiya as a small leeching smirk forms. Her fierce eyes analyze the group before resting her eyes upon Yuna. "Are you Lady Summoner Yuna by chance?" Her voice was firm, yet held gentleness as she spoke toward the female summoner.

Yuna takes a firm step forward as she is spoken to standing equal ground with Jiraiya. "I am. Is there something I may be able to do for you?"

"I am Captain Lucil of the Chocobo knights. It is an honour to meet you Lady Summoner Yuna." Lucil shifts her chocobo opposite toward the other female rider as she politely holds her hand out in her direction. "This is my subordinate Elma, and beside her is my other subordinate Clasko."

Elmo smiles warmly as her shoulder length black hair gently lifts from the wind. Her light tanned skin radiates a certain beauty matching her personality from her smile toward Yuna. "Hiya, I am Elma of the Chocobo Knights. Its a pleasure to meet you!" Small clings emit from her headband as the loose beads clash together. Jiraiya's smirk further rises from another beauty as he eyes her figure upon the chocobo.

"J-just a second. Let me...catch my breath." Filling his lungs with a deep breath he salutes Yuna. "Ah, Lady Summoner Yuna. It is such an honour to meet you. I am Clasko of the Chocobo Knights." Jiraiya's smirk fades into a frown as his hopes were crushed. He was hoping for another beautiful female from the group, but alas his luck is not that great compared to his apprentice. Oh well he would have to do with two beauties from the Chocobo Knights.

Yuna bows toward the Chocobo Knights with a smile upon her face. "Please the honour is mine. I am Summoner Yuna from Be-said Island. How may I be of service for you?" Jiraiya inches closer toward Yuna as he attempts to gain the attention of the two beautiful female Chocobo Knights.

Lucil slowly shakes her head toward Yuna, "It is not us needing service from you Lady Summoner, but us here to serve you." Jiraiya instantly perks up as his grin fully widens upon hearing such news. Oh how he loved hearing that line when he was researching always bringing so much fun to him, but of course the research was much more important. Yes yes, much more important. "We are here to guide you to the Crusader's Headquarters by order of Maester Seymour."

Jiraiya deflates upon the beautiful Captain's wordings. His hopes were crushed, but that will not stop him from his charms. Soon she'll be wrapped around his finger. Jiraiya chuckles darkly to himself as he plots to himself while Yuna responds. "Yes, we would greatly appreciate your assistance. We are new to this area, so an escort would be delightful. Please show us the way." Yuna bows to the Captain with an appreciative smile upon her face.

Lucil pats her chest with her fist in salute, "Very well Lady Summoner." Lucil firmly tugs upon her harness altering her Chocobo's direction. "Elma, Clasko we shall lead them toward the Headquarters. Ride at a slow pace to provide no difficult strain to keep with our pace."

Elma salutes her Captain with a carefree smile upon her face, "Sure thing Captain!" Elma shifts her Chocobo's movement toward the headquarter trail as her neck shifts toward Clasko, "You heard the Captain we'll be escorting them toward the Headquarters. Don't go falling behind like you always do now." Elma laughs as she taps her Chocobo with her heel to go. With a loathing shout Clasko jogs to catch up for casual talk with his peers. He never is able to after all since he does not have his own Chocobo as of yet.

Yuna paces after them with a warm smile among her face. Lulu appears by her side starting casual chat about event that took place. Wakka and Tidus whisper among the both of them passing by Jiraiya. Slowly their necks turn with wicked smirks and glint of danger within their eyes. Shifting back they pace behind the two females as guards. Kimahri and Auron both hold their stance on both sides of Jiraiya.

Kimahri crosses his feral arms as his tail sways to the melody of the waves. "Kimahri don't like that man. Something..bad..about him. Careful." Jiraiya blinks before gazing at the blue beast of a man. He had never heard Kimahri speak before nor had he ever thought someone could sound so feral, yet human at the same time.

Auron gazes off toward an unknown entity floating in the distant travels. "I don't like this. We should not trust that Maester. Obviously his true intentions were hidden quite well. We should be cautious." Kimahri grunts in approval before his powerful steps rain as he paces off toward the distant group. Auron shifts his hand pressing his black shades close to his hidden eyes. "Perhaps it would be best for you to find your apprentice, and return home before being caught in some unwanted trouble."

Jiraiya smirks with a fist on his hip, "Perhaps that would be best, but for now I am liking this place. Think I will stick around for abit till my research is complete. Besides if I know that idea of an apprentice he will not leave easily." With a casual wave Jiraiya presses off the ground step-by-step after the traveling group. Auron hmphs as he is the last to join the group following the Chocobo Knights, who are leading them toward the Crusader Headquarters.

Jiraiya's gaze misdirects into the dark omenous clouds as he lets out a weary sigh. Seems we will never get a days worth of rest with the brat. Never had a days rest when training him, so why did he expect a few days of rest when they returned home to Konoha? He should of known better. Lowering his gaze he spies a group of three people conversing amongst themselves.

He notices two are female as the other is a male. Eyeing the females he notices their blooming beauty for tomboy women. Their short to medium length hair radiating their uniqueness, exotic figures with the right curves as their abnormal hair colour of fiery red and gray solo them from crowds. His hopes are crushed as he realizes by their figures and looks that they must be teenagers. With a dejected sigh he barely claims a glance of the back of the male. He is only able to notice his shoulder length sun-kissed hair, relaxed martial art type pants and cloak, but his cloak has a bizzare design. It was not fancy, nor was it plain, but the angel wings peaked his interest. Jiraiya shrugs as his shifts his gaze back toward the Chocobo Knights following them toward the Crusaders Headquarters.


Whew, this one took a while from procrastination, and wanting to make the characters how they normally act. Would appreciate some feedback upon how everyone thinks about the characters personalities. Tried to keep them in-character except small changes, but nothing big. Only one who I altered in personality would be Paine seeing as how she was not lost yet. Sorry for the delay in this one, but I had some issues to work out before I could work on this one. My e-mail is fixed took a few days to get it back working. No idea what was wrong, but its up and can respond to feedback now. Hope you all enjoyied this chapter. I'll post the next one some time soon.