"That's fine, learn as you go," said Yuri. "After all, none of us are really familiar with this ninja stuff."
"So we got a test tomorrow, we don't know any of the details, and I've got these," said Naruto, tapping the belt pouch containing a couple of balls.
"Like we agreed on," said Yuri. "You should only bring one of us out at a time, until you're more familiar with us and what situations we're best at. These are Type XIIs, so they have healing and repair functions."
"Yeah, I guess," said Naruto.
"So keep in mind that everyone's stronger at some things, weaker at other things," said Yuri. "For example, if you need someone to hide or find things in the dark - I'm really good at that. I still need some better blades for combat though. Dual-wielding shortswords is what I'm used to."
"But everything costs so much," complained Naruto.
"I know, otherwise I'd say something about getting some clothing," said Yuri, tugging at her denim overalls.
"Yeah," said Naruto. Who was capable of telling that the denim was a bit worn out in places, but wasn't sure what he could do about it.
Yuri sighed, trying not to look at the weapons on display in the store they were walking by. Or the clothes in the window of that store. Or the food on sale indicated by those posters. "You have to get onto a ninja team in order to get money, right?"
"Yeah," agreed Naruto.
"So... the test is around here, in a grassy forested area," mused Yuri. "I think I and one more should be hidden nearby when your sensei shows up to test you."
"Oh?" asked Naruto.
"You're late!" yelled Naruto and Sakura, both pointing at the jonin.
"Well, about that," said Kakashi, straightening his vest and pulling a senbon out of it, "do you know anything about a pair of... girls I guess - that are trying to hide nearby."
"Oh," said Naruto.
"Trying to cheat on a test without even knowing the conditions of the test?" said Kakashi, sounding quite severe for a moment. Then he relaxed and smiled under his mask. "Not bad."
"Uhm, so they're okay?" asked Naruto.
"Well, I had to tie one of them up," said Kakashi. "In any case, the test is these two bells."
The two bells dingled as he held them up so that all three genin could see them.
"Okay," said Naruto.
"You have to be able to take them from me," said Kakashi, going on to explain the other details of the test. Time limit, coming after him with killing intent, and otherwise showing him exactly what they were capable of. Two bells meant someone would fail.
"Well, that certainly screws things up," said Naruto, scratching his head. "I really need to start on missions cause I'm gonna need the money really soon."
"Why's that?" asked Sakura.
"You didn't get any girls while we were over there, Sakura-chan," said Naruto. "I got food bills, weapons to buy, clothes to get... There are lots of stuff I need to start getting!"
"Ah," said Sakura.
"Eh?" asked Sasuke, wondering what the heck was going on.
"Well, then," said Naruto, concentrating and bringing one hand up. Silver-green fire formed into a bead just ahead of his palm.
"I didn't say 'start' yet," pointed out Kakashi as he blurred into motion and was suddenly pointing Naruto's hand straight up.
So fast! realized Sasuke and Sakura.
"Ouch," remarked Naruto.
Releasing the genin's arm after he dropped the technique, Kakashi stepped back and nodded. "Start."
Naruto dove for the bushes, Sasuke and Sakura a moment behind.
Naruto immediately went to where he knew Yuri would be. Sure enough, the Dark Elf was tied up and gagged.
"Ugh, he's formidable," said Yuri after the gag was removed.
"Yeah, I got that impression," said Naruto. "How'd he find you?"
"Don't know," said Yuri. "Thought I was pretty well hidden."
"Go check on the other girl," said Naruto. "I'm going to try doing a teleport on him and exclude the bells."
"Can you do that?" asked Yuri.
"We'll find out," promised Naruto.
Yuri let out a deep breath as she rubbed where one of the ropes had indented her skin. Well, she had to see what had happened to her backup:
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(Posted Fri, 22 Jun 2012 18:18)
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