Team 8 set off the next morning following the information that the village had given them, it was not much but it was a start. Their mission was to find and bring Takeru Hyuga back to the village. What they knew of Takeru Hyuga is that he was born in the land of rivers after his father was banished from the clan for marring his mother. This was a problem because Takeru particular blood line was special. It was that of the Guardian line who was meant to protect the first born of the main branch of the Hyuga line. He was tall with black hair, and would be about sixteen now. Team 8s current information also hints that Takeru is in the land of fire and operating around Tanzaku town.
After two days of traveling team 8 arrived at Tanzaku town. It was dusk when Genji started to speak; it would seem we are just in time. They entered the city to find a multitude of shops along such as food vendors, as well as carnival games populating the streets. It was the festival of lights that Tanzaku held every year. Kiba, Hinata, and Shino stared at all the different things going on in the town as they walked by. They stopped in front of a hotel in the center of town over looing the festival. Genji then turned to face them. Okay this will be our base of operations. We need to search the city for Takeru let's split into teams of two and look for him we will meet back here in two hours if we do not find anything. Kida you are with me, Shino you are with Hinata and one last thing feel free to stop at any of the shops this is a festival after all. The two teams moved through the shops looking at the crowed seeing if they could spot their target. With nothing to show for their efforts they all returned for the night.
The next morning Genji teamed up with Hinata. They picked up where Hinata left off the day before. Hinata, what do you know about the Guardian line Genji started to ask. Hinata started to speak in a quiet tone. It is a line of the Hyuga clan that is all I know. That does not help much Genji said, Hinata do you think you could use your byakugan to search for any other Hyugas here. We might be able to locate him that way. I'll try Hinata Said.
Hinata took two steps forward closing her eyes. She was standing in the middle of the street gathering her Chakra when. Her eyes opened, Genji could feel the release of chakra as he stood there. Hinata stood still only to turn as she searched the streets and houses of the town when she found him. He was standing in front of a festival game trying to catch a fish with a paper net. Hinata had spotted him quickly due to his strange chakra. He looked as if he was clocked in a blue aura in the shape of a lion. There, Hinata pointed, he is on the main street by one of the games. Good work Hinata your father would be proud. Hinata blushed at the praise. Let's find the others and see if we can catch him without any trouble.
Using her byakugan Hinata located Kiba and Shino. They were just down the street form Takeru when they all met up. Hinata found him, Genji said let's move in and get a closer look at this guy. They moved down the street looking for Takeru when Hinata pointed him out to everyone. He was standing in front of food stand. He was tall almost 6 feet with spikey black hair. He was wearing a long black jacket that went to his knees and around the hood was white fur with blue flames at the bottom. He had black pants with a grey vest, with a blue sash around his waist. He looked to be 17 years old from what Genji could guess. This is the guy who killed Naoki Genji thought to himself silently. How do we catch him Kiba asked. Well we should wait till he leaves town Shino said until then we should follow him. Sounds good to me Genji said as Shino finished. Let's keep an eye on him till he leaves, see what we can find out about our new friend.
They followed Takeru that night and all the next day. He left Tanzaku town on the morning of the third day but before he could make it through the gate Shino had placed one of his insects on him so they could find him while they grabbed their things. Hiding in the trees only 50 feet away they catch up to him at one of the many lakes in the land of fire. What's the plan Shino asked. Well we have to make contact with him then we need to convince him to return to the village with us Genji said. So let's clear these trees and move in. The others knobbed their heads in agreement moving into the clearing just ahead of them.
So you're the ones that have been following me all this time it is nice to finally meet you. Takeru stood from where he was sitting and turned to face them. He had a smile on his face as he spoke. So do you want to tell me what you want or should I try and guess.
Genji was startled to realize that they had been noticed. My name is Genji Monogatari this is Kiba Inuzuka, Shino Aburame and Hinata Hyuga. We are a joint operation based out of the village hidden in the leaves. We are here to invite you back to the leaf village.
But before Genji could finish Takeru interrupted saying no thanks. But on the other hand maybe if she asked me, as he started to walk toward Hinata, I might accept. Kiba shifted to stand in front of Hinata growling. Takeru stopped moving.
We are here to bring you back to the hidden leaf village and we would be grateful if you would come with us Genji said to Takeru.
Only if you ask nicely Takeru said smiling.
Would you please come to the village with us Genji replied. Okay, I will come on the condition that you keep the dog away from me.
Akamrau is harmless Genji said.
Not him, that dog pointing at Kiba.
Why you Kiba snared. Before kiba could say another word, Done Genji said allowed. Then let's get moving we don't want to waste any more time.
They proceeded east making their way to the village. Genji lead the way keeping Kiba close he did not want him to do anything that could upset the mission. Then came Takeru who was watched closely by Hinata and Shino who were last. They had marched most of the day when they reached a small clearing. We will rest here for the night Genji told everyone. The team took turns at watch keeping an eye out for trouble and keeping an eye on Takeru. They woke early the next morning so they could reach the village by the afternoon. No one talked for some time until. Takeru, I have a question for you.
Yay and what is that, responding to Genji. I know you are a Hyuga but what is so special about the Guardian line.
Takeru smiled saying, the Guardian line is the protector of the main branch of the Hyuga clan's first born. We are sworn to protect them at all costs even if it means our own life. Wow it sounds like you are the dog to me Kiba said. Well at least I don't smell like one Takeru retorted. That's enough you two Genji said his arm behind his back clutching the scroll with his puppets in it. So you are to protect the first born of the Hyuga clan? Genji asked.
Yes, and now that I am able to go back to the village I can fulfill my duty Takeru finished. Well you may not have to go that far to start your mission Genji said quietly to himself. Takeru turned his head as he was walking puzzled then looked at Hinata. She was walking with her head down and her hands up to her chest. Takeru turned back to look at Genji realizing what he meant by not having to go that far. Genji nodded his head confirming Takeru's suspicions. So Hinata what branch are you from asked Takeru. Why don't you mind your own business Kiba barked.
Why don't you run home to your master dog Takeru said. That is it I have had it with you, before Genji could say a work Kiba jumped at Takeru landing a punch across his jaw. Takeru then back flipped kicking Kiba under the chin dazing him. Kiba regained his bearing as Takeru readied himself. Kiba through himself as Akamrau did the same then began to spin so fast that they looked like a drill. Takeru used his air style air bullet to knock Kiba away but Akamrau hit him from behind. The scratches in his back were deep as he could feel the back of his jacket grow wet and warm. Rage began to build in Takeru. He felt the seal on his back begin to activate. No, not now he thought. Takeru suppress the anger and pain for the moment. Takeru stood staring at Kida, and then he launched a jet of fire at him. Just before the fire reached Kiba he saw Genji jump in front of him. A torrent of water rose and met with the fire creating a blanket of steam that quickly dissipated after a second. Genji was furious, Kiba I told you that was enough! Takeru are you alright? Takeru was on his knees doubled over in pain from the attack. Steam was rising form his back and his nails had grown long, sharp, and black. Genji edged closer to him speaking his name Takeru, Takeru are you alright?
As quick as a flash Takeru sprang toward Genji and kiba. Both ninjas jumped out of the way as Akamaru ran at Takeru trying to bite down attempting to grab hold of his arm. Akamaru just missed and was struck hard in the side by Takeru which sent him flying in to a tree. Akamaru! Kiba said running over to him. Kiba look out! Genji yelled over to him. Takeru had jumped into the air at Kiba extending his hand like a spear ready to stab. Genji seeing was about to happen, extended his hands attaching chakra threads to Kiba and Akamaru then pulled his hands back. Kiba and Akamaru were lifted off the ground, they flew through the air landing next to Shino and Hinata who were looking on in terror of the battle. Everyone stay back I will deal with him Genji said standing between them and Takeru.
Takeru jumped at Genji pulling his hand back ready to slash at him but Genji was ready. Genji quickly made several hand signs just as Takeru was within striking distance Genji ducked placing his hand palm down on the ground. A pool of water appeared under Takeru launching him into the air. Then drops of water the size of fists rocketed skyward slamming into Takeru. Overhead a large sphere of water collected from all the water below, Genji made a few more hand signs then shifted his hands bringing them to his chest so that the palms were parallel with the ground. In a loud voice he shouted explosive bite of the water dragon. With a loud roar from the sphere above the head of a dragon with red eyes emerged its mouth open it rushed at Takeru catching him in midair. Both the dragon and Takeru plummeted to the ground when they impacted the water dragon exploded sending water everywhere causing the earth to shake like an earthquake. Genji fell to one knee panting Kiba and the others ran over to Genji. Are you alright Shino asked. I'm fine Genji replied I just used too much chakra. Well I think you got him Kiba said. Look Hinata said pointing.
Takeru stood looking at them soaking wet and bleeding from his injuries. Takeru raised one had and made the tiger seal and in a deep growling voice he said fire style running flame. Fire spring up at his feet moving toward team 8 in circling them, he then used both hands and made the rat seal and yelled wind style wild air current dance. The wind around the circle of fire began to spin making the flames grow even higher. Genji again using his chakra threads throwing the leaf chunin out of the ring of fire just before the fire turned into a raging tornado. The three leaf ninja looked on in horror as the saw Genji swallowed by the flames. Kiba tried to race to Genji's aid but Shino held him back but Hinata used her byakugan to see through the flames to see Genji in the middle of the fire hunched over.
As the jutsu finished and the flames started to die out Kiba was the first to spot it. Mars was standing slightly burnt with its cape wrapped in front of itself as if it was covering something. Mars moved back to reveal Genji covered in sweat, ash and burns. As Genji moved mars away from him. He fell to his knees in exestuation mars mimicking his movements.
Hinata watched as Takeru run at Genji, he was going to kill him she realized. She ran at Genji hoping to make it in time.
Genji stood hoping to fight of Takeru he braced mars ready to attack. Mars swung its sword missing only to have Takeru land on its shoulders pinning it to the ground. The beast was coming even faster even a second later pased and Takeru was right in front of him. This is it, I will be seeing you soon Naoki, but just then he caught a glimpse of a blue light out of the corner of his eye.
Just as Takeru was a hairs breath away from Genji, Hinata struck Takeru in the side with what looked like two lion heads on either hand. Takeru went flying sideways across the ground skidding to a stop at the base of a tree. Hinata stood tall and proud with no shyness in her voice siad I am the first born of the main branch of the Hyuga line and I order you to stop. Takeru stood up looking at them; he started to walk toward them staggering as he did. The marking around his face and on his arms began to recede his claws turned back to hand and he once again began to walk on the whole of his foot instead of just the balls of his feet. He took another step then fell on all fours with no strength left he fell unconscious to the ground.
Takeru awoke to find himself in a hospital bed he was wrapped in bandages and weak from the fight. He was in a room with two beds, the other half was divided by a curtain; he could not see the other patient. As he tried to get up out of the bed a nurse walked in. You should not be doing that, you need your rest. The nurse was about 16 with platinum blond hair in a long pony tail with blue green eyes. Anything you say Takeru said with a sly voice, how could I refuse a pretty face like yours.
Carful Ino a voice said from the other side of the curtain. If you don't watch out he might just get you. So you are awake to Ino said walking to the curtain pulling it back. In the other bed lay Genji covered in bandages as well. How are your burns Ino asked. They are fine but still sensitive to the touch Genji answered. You roasted me pretty good kid speaking to Takeru. But I guess this is what I get for slamming you into the ground with a water dragon. A water dragon Takeru said puzzled. What happened? The last thing I remember is…. Takeru began to trail off. Did I hurt anyone? Genji raised his hand don't worry you only injured my pride.
Well I will get the doctor he will want to have a look at both of you now that you are awake Ino said walking out of the room, so don't go any were smiling as she gave them both a wink.
I think she likes me Takeru said. Don't get your hopes up Genji said snorting. So what is going to happen to me know Takeru asked. Genji turned to look out the window, I don't know. All I know is that we was to bring you back here. After that, only the hokage and the Hyuga clan could tell you.
Both men were in the hospital for three days recovering from their wounds. Many people can to visit Genji, there was Hayato who brought his class, some sand ninja on business, Shinn and his new team, he introduced them as Satoshi Senju, he had black hair and a kusarigama tied about his waist. Then there was Daichi kumiko he had short curly black hair and no eyebrows for he had singed them off just before they had arrived with a jutsu gone bad. Lastly there was Sora Sarutobi he had curly brown hair and was hot tempered. They asked Genji tons of questions before Shinn said they had to go. Shinn had to force them out the door on the account that they did not want to leave. They argued with Shinn the entire way out the door. The day Genji was discharged Kiba, Shino and Hinata came to visit eager for their next mission. We have to meet with the Hokage for the debriefing first Genji said. I can't wait kiba said.
Mr. Monogatari Hinata started to speak. Can I… trailing off. Genji knew what she wanted. He nodded his head. Kiba, Shino I could real use a walk before I am released can you help me. Sure Shino said helping Genji up. The three men walked to the door as they made to leave Kiba turned and said Hinata are you coming? I will be right there she replied.
At the front desk Hinata met up with the rest of the group. What took you so long Kiba asked. It does not matter Genji said. All that matters know is that we go see the hokage.
Team 8 was making their way to the hokage's manor talking the whole way about what had happened on the mission. As they walked Genji could not help but smile, he was recalling the memories of similar instances when he was their age. They reached the manor after a few minutes when they did the preceded in making their way to the main audience chamber.
So you survived the mission I see Tsunada said looking up from a piece of paper. Yes mam Genji said. I read your report and it is quite detailed and I am pleased with it. You handled yourself well and acted like a true leader. Thank you lord Hokage Genji said. Kiba you need to learn to keep your cool or else it will get you in trouble. Sorry hokage. So I guess you will wanting your next mission? All four ninja stood up strait. Well I don't have anything for you. What? Kiba Barked. How could you not have anything? I don't have anything because I don't have anything Tsunade said standing with anger in her voice. Kiba shrunk back whimpering. Lady Tsunade, Hinata started shyly. What is to happen to Takeru? That is up to the Hyuga clan and something you need to be present for and one of the reasons I do not have a new mission for you Tsunada said glaring at Kiba. So you all have some free time to spend around the village. You are free to go. Yes lord hokage the four turned and left the room.
Well now what Kiba said. Well I think we should get some food I'm hungry Genji said. Alright barbeque here we come kiba said jumping up and down. With that team 8 turned and left.