The Jonin instructors along with Shizune were gathered in the Hokage's office. She was looking at each of them carefully weighing her words before she spoke. Finally she decided to break the ice and speak. "I'm glad that you could all make it here on time. I have an important mission that needs to be down. Its B-ranked and completely voluntary."
"I'm sure whatever the mission is I Might Gai can handled it! The powers of youth burn bright when it comes to volunteering!" Gai explained. Around him everyone else sweat dropped and took a step back.
"What is the mission Hokage-sama," Kurenai asked.
"As you might be aware our guests have decided to throw a party/sleepover tomorrow night. They have explained with great detail and a lot of facts to back it up, the importance of letting your hair down once and awhile. For one night they want their new friends to act their age. They understand that they are ninja as well as adults in the eyes of the village. However they are also teenagers with needs. After going over the facts I think it would be medically prudent to allow this one night of fun for them. They have already paid for the hotel banquet hall as well any other expensive including this mission. Since teenagers can be unpredictable even highly trained ones they've asked for a chaperone or two. I already have one volunteer for the mission now I need another."
"Excuse me Hokage-sama, but why aren't their Dragon Masters chaperoning this party?" Asuma questioned.
"Because they too are taking their student's advice and having a night off. I thought all of us could follow their example. To that end tomorrow night I won't be in my office. I'll be out enjoying some quality time with Master Fung. Shizune will be managing my affairs and can handle anything short of an emergency. So unless you all have plans to relax I guess I'll be picking a volunteer for this mission."
"Begging your pardon Hokage-sama, but Asuma and I have plans for tomorrow night. I regret to say we can't chaperone the party tomorrow night."
"I guess its up to me and my eternal rival then to make sure those kids behave huh? Between the two of us nothing can go wrong."
"You say something Gai?" Kakashi asked. He smiled as he saw his 'rival' faceplanted. "Actually I can't accept this mission. I have a date tomorrow night."
The room got super quiet. Everyone stared at the copy ninja not trusting what he or she just heard. The great Kakashi Hatake had a date? It didn't seem possible.
"Whom is the lucky lady your going out with tomorrow?" Gai inquired.
"It's nothing romantic yo. Chakra and I just want to have a chance to talk more. Not to mention get away from the kids for a little while. It's really no big deal. So Gai I guess you will just have to watch the kids yourself." Kakashi replied smoothly.
After accepting the mission the Jonin left leaving Tsunade alone with Shizune. Her young apprentice wanted to ask her some questions, but she wasn't sure it was right of her to. Finally she opened her mouth and spoke. "Are you sure about this my Lady? I mean Master Fung is only going to here for another week before he goes back. I wouldn't want your heart to break again."
"Shizune I thank you for your concern, but its nothing like that. I'm never going to be completely over Dan, but Anthony has opened my heart up again. He's such a good friend and going out with him is a chance to really heal. It's been so long since I've had a night off. I just want to be me for one night. Not Tsunade the Sannin, the great medical ninja, or even the Hokage. Just plain old Tsunade, is that too much to ask?"
"No, it isn't my Lady. I think your right. One night to just be human will benefit our ninja greatly down the road. I think I can handle the job of Hokage for a few hours while you're on your date. Just one question Tsunade. How did you and Fung manage to pry Dojo away from him?"
"Oh I arraigned for him to hang out with some animals and summons. They'll be playing poker in my office with some treats called poffins for chips. Should be very interesting. I wonder if Ton Ton is better at poker then me? Your going to have to tell me how the game goes. But first could you help me find something to wear?"
"I would be happy to help you find a nice outfit to wear."
The next day was a flurry of activity for the Xiaolin Warriors. Callie had commandeered the hotel kitchen and their staffs into helping her cook and bake the food for the party while Clay assisted her. Kimiko and Jack were busy setting up the sound system, lights, and TV screen for the music video. Stacey and Jermaine went into town to get approval from their friends about some of the stuff that would appear in the music videos. Dagwood and Auara were setting up the games. Raimundo and Lu had to make the hotel rooms ready for the sleepover portion leaving Omi and Crystal to hang up the decorations. It was going to be an awesome party.
In the adults rooms the trio of Dragon Masters were preparing for their night on the town. Dojo was assisting Master Fung by giving him a manicure while trimming his goatee. "Now are you sure you don't need me for anything Fungy-poo? I could cancel my plans and accompany you."
"I'm sure that I don't need your assistance tonight Dojo. I can handle taking a beautiful woman out to dinner and the gaming establishment by myself. Enjoy yourself tonight. Now I have to shower and get dressed," Master Fung replied. He grabbed his Greek style suit and headed to the shower.
In the next room over Chakra was watching her brother with an amused expression on her face. Chase was sweating profusely and fumbling to put on his clothes. He kept muttering under his breath about stupid younger sisters and women in general. After applying the last of her make up she turned to her brother and said, "Would it be safe to assume you're nervous?"
"What else do you expect you set me up on blind date with a crazy woman!"
"Anko isn't crazy, just eccentric. Besides I thought you liked powerful and dangerous women. Is it that you prefer women who are older then you?"
"I did not have romantic feelings for Empress Valonia! She was my partner in evil that's it! I'm just worried that I'll do something to upset her. I would rather keep my internal organs inside my body is all," Chase grumbled as he ran a comb through his long hair.
"Look, Kurenai told me the best way to handle Anko is accept her and have fun. Just make sure she enjoys dinner and whatever else you got planned and you'll live. If you excuse me I have to finish getting ready for my date."
"You do realize it's my brotherly duty to defend your honor. If Kakashi-san does anything to harm you, and I mean anything, I'm going to shove my Galvin down his throat."
"That's sweet of you Chase, but I doubt he can do anything to hurt me like that. This isn't a romantic date. It's simply two adults getting to know each other better. Don't worry so much Chase; I'm a big girl. Besides its not like I'm not packing for the date."
Ten minutes to seven the men left to pick up their dates while the teenagers and their chaperones arrived for the party. Everyone was dressed in casual civilian garb. Raimundo and Lu took their sleeping bags upstairs to the bedrooms and directed them to conference/ballroom where the party was set up. What the kids saw was truly amazing.
"Wow! You guys really went all out!" Naruto exclaimed as he surveyed the room. A huge banner with the words Ninja Party on it hung from the rafters. There were balloons and streamers along with colored lights. The furniture had been arraigned in comfortable semi circle. Two buffet tables littered with party food and drink could be seen. A small stage with a karaoke machine and TV had been set up. From the sound system music could be heard playing. In one corner a couple games had been set up.
"Impressive. It must have taken them all afternoon to set this up. Should be an interesting gathering don't you think?" Shino asked Hana. She was the other voluntary chaperone. After hearing about the party from Kiba she had wanted in. Besides with her dogs playing poker with Dojo it would have been a quite night.
"Not as long as you guys think. So glad you could make it. So let's party already! Mingle with your friends or enjoy the buffet. Games will be played in half and hour followed up by karaoke and dancing. Enjoy yourselves. That's what this night is about isn't it?" Dagwood asked offering some organic fruit pizza to his friends.
Soon everyone was either on the couches talking or sampling the food and drinks. Jack and Kimiko were sharing stories with the Konohamaru Corps about growing up. Hinata and Crystal were eating sorbet and discussing some books they had read. Omi, Raimundo, and Naruto were talking about training. Ino and Choji were sharing a plate of food while Clay explained where in the world they came from with. Auara, Stacey, and Kiba were talking with Shino, Dagwood, and Hana about different sacred animals. Callie was talking about her shawoman abilities with Shikamaru who was munching on a vegemite sandwich.
Gai was impressed by how much fun everyone was having and he really enjoyed the exotic cuisine. He took note that his students were relaxed and getting close to their new friends. In fact Neji was sharing his churrio, a freshly baked pastry dipped in chocolate, with Tenten while listening to Lu talk about motorcycles. Sakura and Lee were listening to Jermaine's stories of growing up in NYC. Seemed like the night was going to be a success.
At seven o' clock exactly Kakashi appeared outside Chakra's door with a bouquet of tiger lilies in his hands. He had cleaned his uniform and knocked lazily on the door. "Sorry I'm late, but I had to avoid a black cat."
"Actually your right on time. I knew you be late so I told you to pick me up two hours earlier so you are on time. Thanks for the flowers," Chakra said as she put them in a vase. She was wearing a crimson Chinese style dress with a gold dragon wrapping itself around her. The dress had slits on the side exposing her thighs along with her weapons, there was a circle cut out just above her breast, and her shoulder blades were exposed. She wore high-heeled gold wrap sandals, a golden dragon armband, black fanged ring, and black and red jade dragon pendent with gold stud earrings. Her long hair was piled up on her head in a traditional style with a beautiful jade lily style comb. "I hope you made dinner reservations cause I'm starving."
"I did. That's an interesting outfit. You look nice. I didn't expect a former assassin to have something like that."
"Don't let the outfit fool you. I wore this particular outfit when I was undercover as a model in Milan. I was trying to take down a prostitute ring and free some kidnapped girls. The dress is made of a special material that makes it water, fire, and bullet proof and prevents stabbing. The heels contain hidden switchblades I can use to slice up my enemies. My armband is hollow so it can carry hidden messages and my ring flips open to reveal hidden poisons. My pendent contains a tracking device and my earrings function as communicator/transceiver. Even my combs spines come apart so I have access to medicine. It always helps to be prepared doesn't it?" Chakra explained, grabbing her purse as they left the hotel.
"Very helpful. I'm glad to see even on a night off you still are prepared for battle. I hope your brother and friend are prepared for their night off as well. Could get very ugly," Kakashi commented.
Chase gulped deeply as he knocked on the door to Anko's apartment. He had never been on a date before; heck he was still a virgin! Now he was suppose to take a special Jonin out on a date? He was going to die he just knew it. The door opened and several kunai came flying at his face. He dodged to the side and caught one in midair. He charged foreword only to find his kunai blocked.
"Nice reflexes. Nice to know my slave isn't a weakling," Anko cackled. She eyed the man in front of her and took note of his formal robes. "You didn't have to dress up for little old me. With those robes on how am I supposed to sample your blood lizard boy?"
"Your not snake charmer. I'm your date, not your slave. If you ever try to carve me up again I'll make sure you pay for it," Chase hissed standing up straight. He took note that Anko hadn't changed from her normal attire. It seemed all she had down was literally let her hair down. "So you ready to go get some food or what?"
"Depends on where your buying lizard boy. I have particular needs and I expect them to be met. Remember for tonight you're the slave of this beautiful sexy female," Anko reminded him.
"In that case why don't I treat you like the crazy princess you are? You like dango I heard. I happen to have a taste for that food myself. Shall we see who can eat the most before they explode?" Chase challenged her. He regretted it a second later when she started dragging him through the streets heading for her favorite dango stand.
At the same time a couple ANBU were following Lady Tsunade as Master Fung escorted her to dinner. Tsunade was wearing a beautiful green kimono with some cranes embroidered on it. Even though she had insisted she didn't need to be watched they still followed her. Which meant Shizune was alone in the office save for some animals' all intent on winning a giant pot of yummy treats.
"You look very nice my lady. All women should have you ability to age so gracefully," Fung complimented her.
Tsunade blushed slightly and smiled. "Thank you. You look very distinguished for a man of your age. So where are we going tonight? I hope it includes some sake!"
"I assure you we can visit a bar later tonight. For now I thought we have a pleasant dinner and visit one of your gaming establishments. I've never gambled before, but I heard it can be fun."
"Oh believe me your going to have the time of your life tonight! I'm going to show you the finest that Kohana has to offer."
They arrived at the sushi bar and placed their orders. While they were waiting for their food to arrive the two of them talked a bit more about they're up bringing. Tsunade was able to open up and tell him more about her painful past and bit about her travels. She loved hearing about his childhood in Athens before he had been brought to the Xiaolin Temple.
"Your homeland sounds beautiful and has such a rich history. Art, medicine, and philosophy it all sounds fascinating. Even your mythological Gods sound interesting. If I had known there was a God of Chance I would have prayed to him for luck," Tsunade commented as she ate her sushi. She took a sip of the ginseng tea and grimaced. She wasn't a tea woman.
"Athens is a beautiful place indeed. When you stand on the Acropolis and view the Pantheon its like stepping back in time. Before it was discovered I was Dragon of Wind I had hoped to become a scholar. I wanted to be an historian finding more about my ancestors. But destiny had other plans for me. I had to become the next Dragon Master and Head of Xiaolin Monk Council. Only I could protect the Xiaowei Dragon Star and the Kung Site from harm. Much like you could be the only one worthy of protecting these beautiful village."
"Sometimes I don't think I'm really that qualified. I wanted to turn down the job. It took that baka Naruto to convince me. After losing my lover and brother I didn't think I could live in a place with such bad memories. Its hard, but I'm getting better everyday. Did you ever have a lover?"
"In the sexual sense no, but I was close to a female friend. Her name was Hestia and she was a very good friend. We spent much time together, but in the end she had her life to live and I had mine. Strange how life works huh?" Fung told her. She gave him a smile and the two went back to their meal.
At the same time the two leaders were dining Chase was trying not to stare as Anko devoured her third box of dango. Truth be told he had never met a woman quite like her during his time as the Prince of Darkness. There weren't a lot of strong female warriors to challenge and besides most ran away when they had seen his demon side. He could sense the anger directed at both him and Anko as they enjoyed their meal. The villagers didn't really like a former demon in their home. He tried to ignore it and focused on Anko. "So I'm pleased that you like the meal."
"Dango is the best food ever. I don't know what fancy stuff your use to eating, but I bet this stuff is better then that dragon soup you drank. I still can't understand why anyone would be dumb enough to trade their soul to become a demon."
"It is a lot more complicated then that I assure you. If you understood my life before I was tricked by Hannibal Bean maybe you understand."
"Tricked or not how could you trust a talking vegetable? I mean hello you knew what he had done in the past why bother listening to him? He nearly destroyed your planet because he was so power hungry. Why even breath the same air as him?"
Chase glared at her angrily. He had just about enough of this woman riding him. "Do you know what its like to lose your entire family and village in a single night? To live as orphan and outcast for a year while trying to protect your sister from being sold into slavery? To work so hard and earn the approval of your Master only to get the sense that it's not enough? That you're not worthy of becoming a full fledge Dragon Master? Do you truly understand how badly it feels not knowing if what you do matters?" he shot at her.
Anko was flabbergasted by his line question. Unconsciously she touched her curse mark remembering Orochimaru and what he did. The experiments and the pain and suffering he did came rushing back. She closed her eyes and looked at Chase in the eyes. "I know exactly what you're talking about. My former sensei caused me a lot of pain and suffering. I knew something was off, but I still trusted him. At least I was able to walk away from him."
"I didn't and I've regret it a lot since then. I caused pain to a lot of people over the centuries. I broke my master's heart, lost my best friend, and cursed my twin to an existence most would rather die from then endure. My servants suffered as well. The only good I did was locking Hannibal away for a time and keeping his weapon out of reach. I may have gotten my soul back, but I have a lot to make up for. In some ways I wish I had your strength of character and attitude."
"Yeah, well I wish I was a bit more like you. You made huge mistakes, but people still are willing to give you a chance. Even when you were a demon they didn't care they just want to help you. Wish that could happen to me."
"Perhaps we can help each other out."
At another nearby restaurant Kakashi and Chakra were enjoying their dinner. It was a meal consisting of Kakashi's favorites, broiled saury with salt and miso soup with eggplant. As they ate (Kakashi had genjutsu on his mask so he didn't have to remove it), the two of them talked a bit getting to know each a bit more. They had decided to steer clear of the lose of family and friends for now and focus on their childhood instead. Chakra was impressed by how early on Kakashi had become a ninja.
"Its no big deal. I was a prodigy and worked hard."
"Still most five year olds are starting kindergarden and learning how to say the alphabet. Not many are learning how take another's life and condcuting missions. I find it surprising this village has so many ninja prodigies. It's very unususal to find this much raw talent in one place."
"Really, I never thought about it that much. I guess students of your discipline start a bit later on in life huh? A chance for a normal childhood right?"
"Yes, something I never experianced. At the age of five I was preparing to lose my ablity to walk along with possibly my life."
Kakashi raised an eyebrow and looked at her strangely. What did she mean by that? "What do you mean by that? Is there some sort of Chinese traditon that makes girls unable to walk properly."
Chakra set down her spoon and collected her thoughts. She looked at her date smiling softly. In some ways Kakashi reminded her of her deceaesed husband Lao Shi. "Don't get me wrong Kakashi-kun there are many things I love about my country. I love its history, culture, and many of its foods, but I don't always agree with everything. Especially the current goverement and the treatment of women. I won't get into politics with you, but in order to understand me you must learn the horror women faced and still do today."
Kakashi paused and set down his untensils. He noded his head and leaned foreward waiting for her to explain. He didn't have to wait long. It seemed like Chakra had wanted to get this off her chest for quite awhile.
"Up until the mid twentieth century when a girl became six years old her feet would be bond together. They would tightly wrap strands of wet linen around a girls legs crushing her bones. They would force girls to walk across hard floors, break their bones again, and expect them to still help the women run the household. All this was done in the hopes of after six years a girls feet would be small enough to fit into a dolls shoe. It was attractive. My parents however broke with tradition and decided not bind my feet. They need all the able bodies they had to run the farm and make pottery. In someways I lived a privalage life. Sure I would be expected to a have a matchmaker pick out my groom when I turned thirteen, but until then I could run around and play. I also learned to read and write secretly from Chase who never treated me as burdon. In China the all important first born son gets everything and girls are less then dirt. Still that way today."
"I can't imagine that kind of torture being inflicted willingly on a child. A lot girls must have suffered because of that practice. Still to believe that women can't be equal to men is surprising. Hadn't anyone seen you fight?"
"Discovering I could use fire was a surprise for Dashi. It took him awhile to get use to the idea and even then I had to keep up with him dressed as Chase before he consented to teaching me. You know I've oftened wondered what I wanted to be if I wasn't a warrior during my cursed life. On the one hand I lost all I knew and had to wonder forever. I made my first kill when I was twenty eight defending myself. But there was a silver lining to it. I got see humanity evolve and be part of major changes. I have been on every continent in the world and seen so many wonderful things in my life. If I had to say the best part about living so long is it gave me a purpose. To try and make the world a better place. What about you Kakashi-kun? What would you be if you couldn't be a ninja?"
"That's kind of private. I don't know if I should tell you," he started to say. She puppy dog eyed him and he sighed. "I guess I would like to try and write a book. I mean no one can top Jiraya-sama's work, but I would like to write a romance novel myself."
"You could use yourself as the main character. Personally I think porn is degrading, but its your choice. Why don't you try reading a romance novel without pictures but with describtions for a change?" She said showing him a book called "Goddess of Light." It was about a romance between an Olympian God and interior desinger in Las Vegas.
Kakashi took the novel and read a few parts giggling. She was right it was good. The two spent the rest of dinner talking about books, music, and life. It seemed they were on their way to becoming good friends.
At the party the games were in full swing. They had already played ten rounds of Uno. Kiba had complained that Shino cheated to win the first game because his bugs could see infored. Hana hit him on his head and told him to stop complaing. Naruto's incredible luck won him three hands, before Lu broke his winning streak by playing a Draw Four card in front of him. Shikamaru had stopped calling the game troublesome long enough to win a round. The remaining five went to Choji, Tenten, Neji, Jack, and Jermaine.
The next game had been Twister which they played four times. It was so funny to see everybody twist their bodies around one another trying to touch the right square. Not to mention the blushing and screaming that went on when one person fell on top of another. Stacey had been the spinner and prayed to all her Gods to help the couples out while playing.
The gods must have been listening to her, because it was a successful game night for couples. When Gai had one the first game he sprang up from mat preeching the powers of youth. He didn't notice when he accidently knocked his prize student Lee into Sakura who was getting up for next round. After a flurry of apolgizes Sakuara let him help her up and she thanked him to. Auara of course won the second one with her natural flexibility, but the next two games were won by Ino and Hinata. Both girls crushes offered them words of praise and got them some soda. Crystal laughed happy to see the girls so pleased.
Now everyone was swaying their hips and clapping their hands as they chanted "How low can you go?" It was the party classic limbo! Cheers could be heard and everyone was laughing. Who knew party games could help with ninja training.
"Come on Kimiko a little lower! You can do it just a little lower! Ah no. Man I thought she had it," Callie grumbled as Kimiko knocked over the bar.
"Oh well that just leaves the Kohonamaru Corps vs Omi. I wonder how bad he'll cry if he loses to a bunch of eight year olds," Raimundo chuckled. He took a swig of his soda and stated cheering on the final four contestnents.
"I can do this, I can do this, I know I can ah I missed!" Moegi exclaimed. She had knock the bar down just as she was coming up.
"Really it's just a simple caculation. All one has to do is lean back and walk slowly and oh who moved that bar!" Udon grumbled.
"I guess this victory is out of the sack! Allow me to show you how its done," Omi crowed. He started dancing and swinging his head confident of his win. He didn't count on his big head catching the bar and causing to fall and nearly give him a black eye. "That is not fair!"
"Fair or not, if I limbo under it successfully I win!" Kohanomaru shot back. Making sure his scarf was tied tightly he limboed expertly under the bar wining a necklace of flowers and a gold coconut. "Oh yeah I win!"
"These games were not only most youthful they helped us become splendid ninja! Your Uno game taught us strategy and to think ahead, Twister helps us with flexibility, and Limbo works on our balance. This was most educational and fun!" Lee exclaimed.
"This party is a lot of fun. What's next?" Sakura asked.
"Next up on the agenda is karokee and dancing. Now before anyone protests you have to sing and dance at least once tonight. You all agreed to take a night off for fun and be normal teenagers. Well this is one activity that normal teenagers do at parties so suck it up and perform," Lu informed them.
"Now before we begin I just want to remind everyone that all the pictures and images displayed on the screen were consented to. We don't want anyone trying to turn off the TV while the music video is playing okay? Now why don't my friends and I go first and you guys follow our lead okay?" Stacey said. Smiling she headed up to sing the first song.
"What images is the young lady talking about?" Gai questioned the genin.
"Well we all were kind of curious about what the fans of the show thought of us so we asked if we could see more of it. The talked with us and made some desceions. We get to see images of what's already happened as well as certain pieces of artwork. Nothing that would reveal any secrets or cause harm just some fun images with all of us Gai-sensei," Tenten explained.
"Hmm sounds like the pack is being lead by some new alphas. Well should be interesting to see all the artwork about us. Who knows, it could be interesting," Hana remarked very curious now. After all she learned in the show she was just a supporting character who appeared sporatically. She wanted to see if anyone liked her enough to make an art piece about her.
"I wonder if their music is any good. They have a few songs based on our music, but they're using mostly musical artists from their world. They called them Cascada, Linkin Park, Simple Plan. They also have Switchfoot, Nickleback, Rascall Flatts and a whole bunch of people I've never heard of. I just hope I can dance to it," Kiba grumbled to his sister. The music started and after a few minuets everyone started dancing to the music as Stacey sang "Teardrops on my Guitar".
At Kohana Casino Tsunade was having the time of her life. For the first time ever she seemed to be on a winning streak. Of course it helped that Fung was the one picking the cards and playing most of the games. At the moement the two of them were playing a rousing round of Black Jack.
"Come on hit me! I need more sake!" Tsunade shouted as she glanced at her cards. She had a ten and eight. All she needed was three and she would win.
"Wouldn't it be better to hold and wait and see if the House loses?" Fung asked.
"Anthony you may know tea and weird sayings, but you know nothing of gambling. Aways go all the way!" Tsunade replied. She frowned as she got a four, but just threw in some more chips. "Let's play again and this time my fried plays the card. Now remember the object is to get as close to twenty one or match without going over. Understand?"
"Yes I do. In fact I've just won."
"I knew there was a reason I agreed to go out with you!"
In a nearby training field both Anko and Chase were going at it full force. After dinner they had a relaxing stroll during which they debated what animal was better. Snakes or jungle cats. It ended up with them deciding to battle it out and winner got to make the loser do something.
Anko was having the time of her life. Not only was she getting to lick the blood from an incredible sexy man she was having real fun trying to keep up with him. He had already sliced off some strands of hair, cut her skin several times and even manage to tear off part of her clothing. This was fun! "You ready to give up and admit that I'm the greatest kononuchi ever or do you want me to destroy your pants?"
"There is no way I'm going down without a fight! Besides I still have to get back at you for shortening my hair!" Chase shouted. He twirled his Galvin expertly and charged at the female before him. She was no Valonia, but hell would freeze over before he lost to a non magical younger women!
While this was going on Kakashi and Chakra had made it to the movies just as the previews were ending. Chakra had let Kakashi chose the movie and she was starting to regret it. It was a make out movie with little plot. Kakashi got so into it he accidently gropped her. She kindly crushed his hand and put it back where it belonged. Oh well at least she get to chose the next activity.
Back at the party the dancing and fun was in full swing. It had been tough at first to get anyone to sing because they all thought they were going to embarrass themselves. After a few minutes hesitation and much prodding everyone took a turn singing. It helped that the monks chose Disney theme songs that were fun and easy to sing. Once you forgot a few words and replaced them with others in your mind it really fit them. They also learned a few surprising facts like Shino apparently had a good voice when he sang, "Anytime you need a friend" from Home on the Range. While they discovered that Lee should never attempt to sing again after mangling "One Jump" from Aladdin.
Couples were also starting to form thanks in part to the artwork and songs. At first Neji had been embarrassed to see images of him and Tenten together, but after listening to the words to the song, "The Reason" he started to smile. Both he and Tenten actually kissed at the end of their dance. Next up was Choji and Ino. At first they were both to afraid to ask the other to dance. With a little pushing and prodding they danced under images of themselves to the song "At the Beginning." Sakura was able to open up her heart again and give Lee a chance during the song "The Start of Something New." Konohamaru and his friends danced happily to the song "Never had a Dream Come True." Kiba was a hit during "Breakaway," but was seizing when his sister and Shino danced together during "Dare You to Move." At least there weren't any images of them together on screen. Shikamaru endured the teasing he got when his crush on Temari was revealed thanks to the song "Somewhere Out There." Gai rocked the dance floor during the tribute to the Jonin instructors with the song "Welcome to my Life." But the biggest success was when both Naruto and Hinata gathered the courage to dance together during the song "There You'll Be."
There were a lot of team tribute songs everyone danced to such as "Who Says You Can't Go Home?" and "Anything But Ordinary." The girls of both groups rocked the dance floor with songs like "That's What Girls Do" and "This one is for the Girls." Not to be outdone the boys performed "The Boys are Back" along with "Save Me" performed perfectly. Everyone was just laughing, smiling and having a good time.
"Alright this last song is a semi slow dance. We want to see as many couples dancing as possible especially from the ninja population! In order to accomplish this we Xiaolin girls will dance with the male shinobe who isn't paired up with partner. Our boyfriends will be more then happy to man the video display. These last batches of artwork will have you stunned. So pick your partner already!" Lu shouted.
"Sakura-chan! The powers of youth have determined that, what I mean to say is will you please dance with me?" Lee asked changing his words mid sentence.
Sakura took a deep breath and smiled. She took Lee's hand and spoke quietly to him. "I would love to dance with you. Just try not to crush my feet."
"Hey Moegi would you like to dance with me?" Konohamaru asked nervously.
"Sure! That is if Udon doesn't mind sitting out this last one."
"It's okay with me. I think I need to sit down anyways."
Choji confidently strolled over to Ino and bowed. "Would you do the honor of dancing with me Ino-chan?"
"The honor is all mine Choji-kun."
"Hey insect would you mind dancing with this alpha?"
"Logically you are the best person to be my dance partner."
"Tenten would you like to dance?"
"Yes I would."
"Um Hinata-chan would you um like to dance with me please?"
"H. Hai! I w. w. would like that very much Naruto-kun."
"Man all the girls are taken. Who are we going to dance with?" Kiba asked Shikamaru.
"Who cares? Girl's are troublesome."
"Really is that what you think lazy boy? Hmm will show you a think or two. Stacey you take Kiba I'll take Shikamaru here. Should be quite interesting," Callie remarked.
As soon as everyone was on the dance floor Gai spoke up. "You have all demonstrated the Power of Youth during this party! I'm so proud of all of you. I hope this last dance is something you remember for the rest of your life!" He pressed a button on the CD player and the song started. It was "Can I Have this Dance?"
Take my hand, take a
breath
Pull me close and take one step
Keep your eyes locked on
mine,
And let the music be your guide.
Won't you promise me
(now won't you promise me, that you'll never forget)
We'll keep
dancing (to keep dancing) wherever we go next
It's like
catching lightning the chances of finding someone like you
It's
one in a million, the chances of feeling the way we do
And with
every step together, we just keep on getting better
So can I have
this dance (can I have this dance)
Can I have this dance
The couples followed the advice of the music and let it guide them. They expertly stepped, twirled, and lifted throughout the song. Above them images of the groups flashed proudly showing friendship and love.
Take
my hand, I'll take the lead
And every turn will be safe with
me
Don't be afraid, afraid to fall
You know I'll catch you
threw it all
And you can't keep us apart (even a thousand
miles, can't keep us apart)
'Cause my heart is (cause my heart is)
wherever you are
It's like catching lightning the chances
of finding someone like you
It's one in a million, the chances of
feeling the way we do
And with every step together, we just keep
on getting better
So can I have this dance (can I have this
dance)
Can I have this dance
Oh no mountains too high
enough, oceans too wide
'Cause together or not, our dance won't
stop
Let it rain, let it pour
What we have is worth fighting
for
You know I believe, that we were meant to be
It's like
catching lightning the chances of finding someone like you (like
you)
It's one in a million, the chances of feeling the way we do
(way we do)
And with every step together, we just keep on getting
better
So can I have this dance (can I have this dance)
Can I
have this dance
Can I have this dance
Can I have this dance
The song ended with everyone smiling and blushing lightly. Gai clapped enthusiastically and tears were pouring down his cheeks. This was the most wonderful thing he had ever seen. After calming down he told everyone to head up stairs and get ready for the sleepover. The hotel staff would be in to clean up the party.
Around this time Fung and Lady Tsunade were enjoying a celibately drink at a nearby bar. They had won quite a lot of money together which they split evenly amongst themselves. Tsunade couldn't believe how much luck she had when she had partner working with her. "I still can't believe that was your first time gambling! You're a natural."
"Thank you. This is my first time drinking saki too. It has a unique taste to it."
"I know isn't it great? So the plans to that project you gave me are great help. We should complete work on it by the time you leave next Saturday."
"Indeed that is good news. I'm very happy I was able to protect your village from harm. It deserves nothing less the best."
At the training grounds Anko and Chase were in an awkward position. Anko had won the fight, but narrowly. At the moment Chase was pinned to the ground by a couple of snakes while Anko was busy trying to carve her initials into his bare chest. He was smirking still. "Don't you want to do something besides taste my blood?"
"Sure I do, but first I have to mark you as my property. After all I did win the fight. Your sister was right to send you to me. I'm the greatest female konoichi ever!" Anko exclaimed as she finished her task. Smiling evilly she went in for the kill.
Across town in the dance hall Kakashi was wondering how he had gotten roped into having one dance with Chakra. As he watched her negotiate with DJ he could only recall a few pleads about how it was her turn to pick the activity and a threat of having Gai challenge him to a dance off if he didn't dance with her. Shuddering at the thought he had agreed. He notice Chakra coming back and she was smiling. "Did he agree to play the CD you gave him?"
"Yeah. At first he was comfortable with the idea for a few reasons, but I finally managed to talk him into it. Thanks for doing this. I know you said you don't dance, but at least your man enough to take the challenge. Just follow my lead and everything will be fine," Chakra explained dragging the poor Copy Ninja to the dance floor. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Kurenai and Asuma come in. Oh this would be good.
The music started playing and immediately the two started moving in sync. The spotlight was on them as well as all the eyes in the dance hall. This was a once in a lifetime opportunity. The song playing was "Life is Highway" by Rascal Flatts.
Whooo
umm yeah...
Life's like a road that you travel on
When there's
one day here and the next day gone
Sometimes you bend, sometimes
you stand
Sometimes you turn your back to the wind
There's a
world outside ev'ry darkened door
Where blues won't haunt you
anymore
Where brave are free and lovers soar
Come ride with me
to the distant shore
We won't hesitate
To break down the garden
gate
There's not much time left today
Life is a highway
I
wanna ride it all night long
If you're going my way
I wanna
drive it all night long
At this moment Kakashi and Chakra were weaving around each other. Next they waved their hands across their legs and then Kakashi pulled Chakra under his legs. She shot up and they began dancing together again. Both were laughing and smiling.
Through
all these cities and all these towns
It's in my blood and it's all
around
I love you now like I loved you then
This is the road
and these are the hands
From Mozambique to those Memphis
nights
The Khyber Pass to Vancouver's lights
Knock me down
get back up again
You're in my blood
I'm not a lonely
man
There's no load I can't hold
Road so rough this I know
I'll
be there when the light comes in
Just tell 'em we're survivors
Everyone present was clapping and cheering the two dancers on. Both Kurenai and Asuma were astonished at how good Kakashi was. Not to mention they had never seen him laugh like that before. Wait until they told Gai about this!
Gimme gimme gimme gimme yeah
Life is a
highway
I wanna ride it all night long
If you're going my way
I
wanna drive it all night long
There was
a distance between you and I (between you and I)
A
misunderstanding once
But now we look it in the eye
Here both Kakashi and Chakra got really close together and danced slowly. As they music heated up again they separated, but kept the rhythm between each other. Neither notice when Chakra's hair came lose.
Ooooo...Yeah!
There
ain't no load that I can't hold
Road so rough this I know
I'll
be there when the light comes in
Just tell 'em we're
survivors
[Chorus: (x3)]
Life
is a highway
I wanna ride it all night long
If you're going my
way
I wanna drive it all night long
Gimme gimme gimme gimme yeah
The song ended and everyone was clapping and cheering them on. Kakashi was a little embarrassed by the attention, but Chakra assured him it was good attention. "So you think you can dance now?"
At the hotel the sleepover things were in full swing. The girls were giving each other makeover such as highlighting Tenten's buns and painting Ino's nails lavender. They also gossiped a bit and decided to watch both Mulan movies. The girls loved seeing Mulan kick the boys' butts while they goofed up. The songs weren't bad either. They especially loved the moments like when Mulan was nearly found naked or when the princess and the trio went out on a date. Musho also reminded them a lot of Dojo. Finally Hana told the girls it was time to sleep for the girls.
The boys had been doing similar things like telling ghost stories and chatting about their girls. They also watched Batman Begins. It was a highly entertaining movie and left the boys talking for a while until Gai told them to get some sleep. It had been a good night.
Fung and Tsunade were saying goodnight. After Fung kissed her hand he collected Dojo who was grumbling about losing his winning to a pig. Tsunade smiled and Shizune proceeded to tell her all about her date.
Anko and Chase had just finished getting their clothes back on. Chase was no longer a virgin and was wondering where he and Anko went from here. Shrugging it off for later he escorted the lady back to her house. It had been a good night.
Kakashi was escorting Chakra back to hotel. After dancing they had taken a stroll around the village and done some stargazing. Apparently the stars were the same here as back in her own world. As they stood outside her door he spoke up. "I had a good time tonight. It was very nice getting to know you better."
"Thank you it was nice getting to know you as well. You're a good person Kakashi Hatake and wonderful friend. I hope we can continue to be good friends. Well good night," Chakra said giving him a friendly hug before entering her room. It was goodnight for everyone.