No Place to Run (Hibiki, Open)

[Konpaku~soul]

Kagoñe laughed a little on the inside. It was Mei's choice, he was thinking like that, but it wasn't her he was trying to persuade. "Oh I think she would be in good hands with the Hokage. The Hokage may kill me for revealing this to you, but he is somewhat like Mei. He's not part of the Spirit Clan, but he is still like her, and he will do everything he can to protect her," Kagoñe said, thinking of what the Hokage would do to him for revealing his secret.

Kagoñe lowered his hood, revealing his dark red eyes. He looked down at Mei, "It is your choice on who you want to go with. You also don't have to be scared of my eyes, I was born that way," reassuring her, since red eyes is a rare eye color, in which he only knows of him having this natural eye color. "I may be an S-ranked crimanal along with the Akatsuki, but there are places where I do have protection myself," he said out of random. He was trying to keep himself busy, until Mei decides who she wants to go with.

[kijo]

Kijo stepped back from Kagone to hear the girl's answer to her previous question.
She smiled at Mei, and gave her name in return.
"My name is Kijo, it's a pleasure to meet you Mei."

She nodded her head at Hibiki's words.
The choice was her's, but Kijo herself honestly wanted Mei to go with Hibiki and herself. It would be nice having a little kid around, though there were some people she'd have to watch whenever Mei was around. Masuyo for one. He didn't seem to like little kids, but then again she would've watched him even if Mei wasn't there at all. Still, the choice was completely hers.

"...Gee, it's ironic how this whole time, neither Hibiki or Mei has told me about her being a Youki, and yet you continue to blabber it out like we're talking about the water cycle."

She raised her eye brow at Kagone, daring him to contradict her.
She narrowed her eyes at him when he said that he had places to hide. What, was he deaf? Did he not hear them talking about a base this whole, entire time? Did he think they slept out side, and went to the bathroom in the woods? How insulting.

"As do we, Jinchuuriki. And with all of us there, no one would dare coming knocking."

[Kora]

Mei nodded. "Nice to meet you, too, Kijo."

Mei looked around her, and her head spun. She could go it alone, if she really needed to. She could ask for help from spirits, and Boukey would help her get along. But did she want to do that? She didn't know... Life without anybody else wouldn't be lonely, really, but it'd be kind of boring, and nerve-wracking. What if more ninjas came after her?

Mei-Mei, I think we both know you need to go with someone. It's your choice.

Mei shook her head, closing her eyes and trying to think. "I know, I know... I just need to think..."

She looked around her. Hibiki had been nice, and he said he'd protect her... Kijo was nice, but she was sharp, very sharp to Kagone especially. Still, she didn't look like she wanted to hurt Mei. Kagone was nice, too, but his voice, and those eyes... She didn't not like him, but she couldn't decide about him. Oh, this was all so confusing!

Mei, are you alright...?

Mei's temper finally burst then. "I'm fine. Just... Just stop arguing, all of you! I'm tired, and hungry, and angry, and I can't concentrate when you're all so... so touchy!" Mei took a deep breath and looked around. It was about then that she realized she'd just ordered around a group of three adults who looked like they could kill her if they wanted. That hadn't been her best plan...

She sighed. "Look, I'm sorry, but... I'm trying to make my decision, and all of you arguing makes it hard for me to think and... Sorry. Can I just have a little quiet, to think about this?"

[Hibiki Yamada]

When Kagone had told him that the Hokage was a youki, Hibiki didn’t say anything. He just stared at Kagone with a “you shouldn’t have said that” sign on his face. Now he was sure Kijo knew something was up. He was sensing tensioning the air and it was only growing faster. When Kijo did say she knew it felt like he was cut in half, falling yet still standing. “I was meaning to tell you Kijo. But, I preferred we speak about it in a more private place. We cannot let everyone know about this,” replied Hibiki quickly. He didn’t want to get on Kijo’s bad side that was certain. But, he knew that whatever is to come will alter their perspective each other.

"As do we, Jinchuuriki. And with all of us there, no one would dare coming knocking."

“It’s true we don’t get many visitors back… home,” said Hibiki. He heard a chilling laugh from behind him. Of course he knew the laugh. It was of the Shinigami. He knew the Shinigami was watching them. But only a select few could hear his laughter.

When Hibiki hear of Mei’s little outburst. It made him laugh inside. “Let’s guys we need to let her have some time to think it over. "He walked 5 yards away from here and expected the others to do the same.

[Konpaku~soul]

Kagoñe only smiled, and it can be shown in his eyes that he was smiling. He also laughed at Mei's little outburst, and he stepped back just as Hibiki has done. When he got back far enough, he pircked his head. He quickly activated his kekkei genkai, and did a quick scan for souls in the area. He counted out the number, "I think I should've killed that ninja when I had the chance. We are surrounded by 5 no 6 people. I'm asuming anbu," he said so that only Mei, and the two people he has been arguing with can hear. He put the sword he had in his hand away, and pulled out two identical swords.

As he pulled the two swords out from his scroll, he also scrapped them together, activating the water chakra withen the two blades. "Kijo, Hibiki, from what I can see, they appear to want to go two on one with the three of us. Get ready for another fight, and this time it won't be easy from what I can tell," he said again, just loud enough for Hibiki, and Kijo to hear. The mist is still thick, and getting thicker, leading Kagoñe to blieve one of the 6 people who showed up, knows the Hidden Mist Jutsu.

[kijo]

She shrugged at Hibiki's words.
Of course they couldn't let anyone else know. Many saw Jinchuuriki and Youki as being the same. Kijo cared not, for they weren't who she was after. She was after Jinchuuriki alone, not Youki. She burst out laughing at Mei's out burst, but got up and walked away respectfully, following after Hibiki and Kagone. She stood closer to Hibiki, still not fully trusting Kagone.

She gave Kagone a wary, untrusting look.
How could they be sure he wasn't messing with them? She glanced at Hibiki, then back at Mei. It was dangerous to leave her there with the mist growing this thick. Before she completely disappeared from view, Kijo ran over and knelt beside her, though she didn't speak to her. She probably couldn't be seen either way. Still, she hung close, in case one of the ninja decided that they wanted to snag Mei and take her back to the village against her will.

(ugh, short)

[Kora]

Mei nodded her thanks when first Hibiki, then Kijo and Kagone moved away from her. Quietly, she sighed, closing her eyes so she could think.

So what do you think, Mei?

Bouey's voice was gentle, calm. Mei could tell that the demon was working very hard to stay calm in the face of so many new things. The little girl appreciated it, and she smiled a little.

"I don't really know." she whispered, "I guess Kagone isn't that bad, but... Hibiki was the first one, and he promised that he would take care of me. He reminds me of Father. But I shouldn't decide to go with someone because they remind me of someone I know. Should I? It could just be an act... All of it could just be an act. What would they gain if it was one, anyway? It's all so confusing..."

I don't know, Mei. You're right: this is confusing. Do you want my opinion, or do you want to make your own choice?

Mei smiled a little. "I'd love to have your opinion, Boukey. You know me better than I probably know myself.

Thank you, Mei-Mei. Well, I think we should trust your instincts. Hibiki seems to be the one you lean towards, and we can always run if we need to. Besides, did you see the way he was fighting? He was using jutsus like your father and cousin do. Spirit Clan. I think he can teach you.

Mei nodded. "Hibiki it is, then. I hope this isn't a mistake..."

The two were so wrapped up in their inward conversation that neither was paying attention to the outside world. When Kijo rushed to stand beside Mei, the little girl jumped, eyes darting around her, trying to see what had happened. The mist was getting thicker... Oh, no.

"What's happening?" Mei whispered. The others hadn't grown up in the Mist Village, and she doubted they could see much farther than their noses. She, however, had lived in the middle of thick mist her entire life, and a few times had been forced to train in jutsu-enhanced mist like this was. She'd be one of the few who wasn't blind in this mist.

She tested her range of vision. She could see the nearest tree as a dark outline, and Kijo was only slightly blurred. So about ten feet. That was okay. Ten feet was enough. Mei's hand gripped at the kunai in her pocket again. She wouldn't be caught off-guard.

[Hibiki Yamada]

“What a pain…” muttered Hibiki in hearing the words that they were going to attack again. He then deactivated his disguise ability once more and created 20 more spirit lanterns. He figured if they wanted to play it rough he would need to do the same. He performed the necessary hands seal befor saing in a quiet tone “Scythe of the Harvester Technique” and raises his right hand up. A sythe like form was made from pure chakra. He couldn’t see them technically. But, he had the feeling that they were really close. He then moved the lanterns up at a suitable level before putting more chakra into them increasing the light they give off.

He was worried about were Mei and Kijo was. Not that they were to get hurt. It was quiet opposite; he hoped they wouldn’t over do it. He then heard some rustling in the leaves nearby. He then swung his scythe to the right only to stop at the throat of a sneaking ANBU. “I suggest you for your safety to leave right now,” warned Hibiki. But he noticed something was wrong. The Clone then disappeared in a puff of smoke. “A clone?” thought Hibiki. He knew it was a trap and he fell for it. He then turned to check behind him and an ANBU charged at him. Hibiki quickly blocked the incoming knife attack with his scythe.

“These guys most certainly are skilled. But, not skilled enough…” said Hibiki before calling a few lanterns to shoot at the ANBU. But, he or she for that matter jumped back quickly and dodged them. He then discharged his Scythe makeing it disappear allwing him to use lanterns more. For a few seconds he didn't move and soon enough another one charged behind Hibki and sliced him in the back. But it turned out Hibiki was also a clone. Hibiki appeared right next and borought his scythe back did a fast swing of his scythe to slice the head rigt of the ANBU. But, he jumped out of the way before the scythe could reach him and both ANBU’s were hidden in the mist once more.

“What a pain,” muttered Hibiki before telling Kagone “We need to get to Kijo and Mei.”

[Konpaku~soul]

The sound of clacking metal, and the shockwaves being produced, Kagoñe was fighting two Anbu at the same time, one sword for each. Both swords were being manipulated by Kagoñe, using the water chakra that was infused into the two blades. Everytime the swords slammed into the ground, the noise was easily penetrating the thick mist, and the sockwave can be felt up to 10 meter radius. As long as he used these swords, he can easily keep the Anbu at bay.

"Hibiki I'm going to create a clone. if you want to get to Mei, and Kijo, follow my clone. I'm going to have it use one of my jutsus which can light a very small area with this thick of mist. Stick close to it, I have an idea," he said in respose to what Hibiki said. While still holding on to the swords, Kagoñe produces a Raiton Kage Bunshin. He had the clone pull out the sword he put away earlier from the scroll, and had it do Lightning Sword. The clone slowly moved in the direction of Mei, and Kijo.

Sticking close to his clone, Kagoñe is still using the water chakra of the blades to keep the Anbu at bay. As he got closer, he spoke, "Mei, are you alright? Kijo, Hibiki, I hope you two are close by, I'm going to try something new with these blades," he said, pulling the blades back. He then manipulated the blades to wrap around Mei, in making a 10 meter daiameter, enough space for Hibiki, and Kijo and himself as well. The only light being produced is coming from the sword that the clone is holding, and Possibly Hibiki's lanturns, if he is inside the sword barrier, as Kagoñe likes to call it. Not only did he have the swords wrap around them above ground, he also has them underneath them, creating a sphere defense. "I don't know how long this will last, but it should buy us some time," Kagoñe said hoping everyone was inside.

[kijo]

Before the mist got too thick, Kijo placed a hand on Mei's shoulder.
She'd have to keep her out of the way, but how? An idea sprang to mind, but before she could warn Mei of what she was about to do, two forms threw themselves at her. Letting out a snort, she created a clone which placed it's own hand where her own had been. Using both sight and hearing, she waited until they were close enough, before jumping a few feet off the ground, and into the air.

Her clone pushed Mei's head down, to keep her from getting harmed.
Once both ANBU were withing kicking distance, she stuck out a leg. Her leg connected with one of their heads, and the momentum from her kick, spun him around to clash heads with the second. She threw them off, some where in the mist, knowing that they weren't dead. The move was simply to keep them away from Mei.

She really didn't like the fact that a Jinchuuriki was helping them.
Hibiki and Kijo could have handled it on their own, there was really no need for Kagone to be helping them. She also didn't like the fact that he'd put a defensive shield around them. She did not like being trapped in. She shifted uncomfortably, glaring around herself, her clone having dispersed a long time ago, and her hand resting on Mei once more.

"And, why are we buying time? What do you expect us to do in here Kagone?"

[Kora]

Mei nodded at Kagone's question. "I'm fine. Are all of you okay?" She looked around her. A glowing dome of light flared around them before becoming invisible again. When Mei's hand approached the barrier, her nerves began to tingle, and she quickly pulled her hand away.

Kijo had been fighting, and Hibiki was ready to go, it seemed. Kagone, too, was armed and looking ready. What were they all doing in this barrier then? Mei wanted to get away, go far far away and forget the mysterious ninjas who had come after her. She wanted to remember the good parts of her village, not the terrible ones.

Mei, are you ready to run, if it becomes necessary? We can't be too safe...

Mei nodded. She could run if she needed to. She was tired, sure, but she was better off tired and running than sleeping peacefully in the realms of the dead. She held her kunai even tighter, eyes darting around the little barrier's enclosure.

Her fatigue seemed to have almost dissappeared. As soon as the first ninjas showed up, she was immediately on alert, ready to fight or flee. This was probably adrenaline. The teachers at the Academy had explained this to her, and they'd also explained that the effect wasn't permanent. She needed to get some rest soon, or even adrenaline wouldn't be able to carry her on.

[Hibiki Yamada]

“It’s a time to plan,” said Hibiki calmly. He noticed how Kijo felt somewhat uncomfortable. He didn’t like this barrier also. But, he knew it is somewhat necessary. He then looked outside the barrier. The mist seemed to thick for him to see where all the ANBU where. Hibiki gave a small sigh before closing his eyes. He could sense some spirits within the area. But, nothing they weren’t strong enough to go against ANBU. Then the Shinigami appeared once more.

“Such a shame, If I was out in battle I would show them why I am known as a Death God,” said the Shinigami as he appeared in front of Hibiki. Because spirit lantern was active everyone was able to see him. The Shinigami’s voice was rough but soft at the same time. “But, then again, it’s beneath me to do battle with mere mortals." Hibiki bowed to the Shinigami and said “We have everything under control… I assure you.”

The Shinigami laughed again. “I’m sure you do. But, just in case…” said the Shinigami before he threw up two souls from his mouth. "These are former ninjas of the mist. They are able to combat the ANBU even in this shroud,” spoke the Shinigami. The Shinigami then look over to Mei. He gave an slitly evil smile. “I am looking forward to seeing you. You family has served me well and I expect no less from you either,” spoke the Shinigami in a grim tone.

He then looked at Kagone and warned “Your clan has caused me some trouble. I hope you are not like them or ill reserve a special place for you when you die.” One could tell the Shinigami didn’t favor the Konpaku Clan. But, Hibiki knew the Shinigami wasn’t prejudice. He just liked punishing those who get in his way. He then lastly turned his gaze over to Kijo. He smiled and said "I hope your intentions in the Akatsuki are pure..." befor disappearing.

Hibiki immediately performed the sand seals for his next skill. “Summon Spirit Technique…” spoke Hibiki quietly. The two orbs of blue light took form as two glowing light blue ANBUs.

[Konpaku~soul]

((OOC: how are you able to see through the barrier, it's completely solid? Not even Kagoñe can see through it.))

Kagoñe looked up at Hibiki when he answered Kijo's question, it was thanks to him that he didn't have to answer, and he was a little thankful. When he saw the Shinigami, and watched Hibiki bow, he laughed a little. He only had one response to the Shinigami's warning, "If I was able to serve you I would. But it would be pointless without those blue ball things. Besides the only reason I would kill Hibiki is because he is a member of the Akatsuki, and not because of our clan's relationship with one another," he said. Kagoñe wasn't kidding when he said he would gladly serve under the shinigami, and also wasn't kidding about killing Hibiki either.

"I have no idea what you did, but those blue shining guys won't help much. We need some more ideas then just them," he said, after the Shinigami left, and the two spirit showed up. Kagoñe then felt a vibration in one of his blades, and determend where the strike came from. HE manipulated the blades again, after throwing two shurikens, allowing his shurikens t pass, and then closing the small opening quickly. "The question is, how the heck are we going to get Mei out of here? I have a technique that I know neither of you would go for, because I'm only able to bring one with me at a time. I can summon a friend, who can get Mei out of here, while we keep the Anbu busy," he said coming up with some plans.

Kagoñe wanted to get ready incase his idea was agreed upon, that he did the hand seals, and summoned one of his wolves. The wolf is Ookami, who is faster then everyone in her pack, including her Alpha. "Say hello to Ookami. The fastest of my summons. Even the Anbu will have a hard time keeping up with her. Ookami I may need you to do something for me. IF it's not going to be used, then you will still be able to help me," he said looking down at Ookami. Ookami looked around, and after seeing Mei, she had an idea as to what will be needed of her, "I will be glad to help in any way I can," she said in a friendly tone of voice, like she always does. Kagoñe tied a piece of paper to Ookami's tail, that way he can keep an eye on where she was, and be able to get to her in an instant, since it's one of his "rites."

[kijo]

"Um, okay that was a little creepy."

She had blinked at the Shinigami and his strange words to her.
Sheesh, this world was full of creepy things! So, putting that aside, it was time to plan, as Hibiki said. Her fire jutsus would not only light up the area, but burn a few bodies as if they were nothing but twigs. The only problem, was getting close enough to them so that they couldn't dodge when they saw the fire coming towards them.

"If we can get them cornered, we'd be able to kill them easily. But there is their partners as well. And Kagone, don't hold one hostage in an attempt to make them stop. I highly doubt they will."

She left out the part about it leaving him open for attacks.
It would draw attention away from Mei if they returned with a Jinchuuriki. Not to mention that she honestly didn't care if Kagone was hurt. She looked at the wolf, a little unsure. Did she really want Mei out of their sight? She shook her head, disagreeing with Kagone's idea.

"I don't want one of them slipping away and going after them. No matte how fast she is, they could still use jutsus to harm both of them. No offense, but I don't think it's safe enough to be so far away from her."