Darkness [Closed]

[Apple]

As the both of us stool in momentary silence I couldn’t help but feel that it was incredibly awkward between us right now. Not that I didn’t want it to be not awkward, all I wanted was a good nights sleep, to say the least even I hadn’t expected him to barge in to my room like this, and to the point where even I hadn’t guessed it would happen, you knew that you were stepping on uncharted territory then. As I kept my guard somewhat casual yet also unfaltering as I lay almost bare in my clothing, perfect unmarked skin taut across my body, he; he should be thankful for having such a person as me in his home- Who did he think he was, disturbing my sleep like that? Not that it was him of course- The lightning had contributed to it but by no means did he have to come in. And what came next? I simply responded to with an unimpressed look on my face as he demanded me to take my shirt off- It was something bold to ask for, and I couldn’t blame him- I was sure he was speaking to thousands of men I’d spoken to in the past, but they had simply been too shy to ask.

Not that I was going to take my shirt off for him.
What did he think I was? A whore?

With such thoughts building up in my head, rising, rising and rising until my mind reached boiling point, I could only do my best to try and keep composed- It was a trivial matter, really, and instead, my annoyance would be soothed as he’d claim that he had only been joking- He’s such a fucking liar- He wants you so bad. At this, I’d grin; My own inflated ego in play as always. What boy wouldn’t like a piece of me I was an object of everyone’s desire, blonde, busty, blue eyed and beautiful, my skin unscathed by any marks of swords or weaponry- Some may say that I don’t even look like a shinobi from the first encounter but as they felt the metal of my dagger on their neck they soon took back what they said. I was very much a shinobi, and very much a lady. Perhaps not in the way that I spoke or acted, but in the way that men dropped at my feet like flies. This male; Although slightly quiet, was sure to be thinking the same as every other one out there.

But it seemed like that wasn’t the topic right now revolving in the male’s mind as he seemed to say something similar to a type of game, as if he knew the meaning towards it. Surely other people would begin to get edgy at this but frankly; I just looked at him as if he was some kind of idiot- Of course I didn’t really understand what he was going on about, but with a few moments of thinking I’d begin to reel over it; ”Are you insinuating that you may not be what you seem to be?” I’d ask- It was obvious how he said it, really, a sure fire starter to whatever I was going to say next- With the amount of words that came out of my mouth, sometimes I find what I say surprising myself. As the echo of thunder rolled across the forestry that was near the home, I’d turn my head to look outside for but a moment, although not in alarm, more in curiosity, before turning it back towards Ichiro. ”-It’s not as if I’m going to go back to sleep now...” a pause; ”..Tell me.” I’d breathe out these words as my form would crawl forward an inch or two towards him. I spoke these in the same way as I had done countless times in the past, my words would seep honey and sugar, so sweet and tempting.

You could only give in to such beautiful words as these, right?

It was almost as if, no matter what I said, in that tone I couldn’t help but say the right things. I could turn the meanest of drunkards in to the most romantic and soppy of gentlemen- I had done it in the past and although I was sure Ichiro wasn’t a drunkard nor that insensitive, I was sure that I could twirl him around my finger easily- I wanted to know what happened here- I needed to know. It wasn’t madness that invited me should I not find out; I had experienced and lived through that long ago- Pray tell I was still being effected by it, but I embraced it unlike others, so that was the least of my worries now. What did I have to loose from learning whatever story he had up his sleeves? One thing was for sure- He wasn’t to be trusted ..There was something peculiar about him, but even I wasn’t all that sure of what exactly. It was beyond my knowledge, henceforth; beyond my care.

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[Trigga]

Akin to a famished mouse, who for hours on end marched aimlessly through an immense maze only to find food to quench her hungry, Blanche had finally succumbed to her starvation. While food wasn’t the ideal notion that she craved for, it was but the information that the comatose corpse with a voice speak so fervently too that intrigued her. Excellent. This was all that could and would be said from afar—miles which exiled his voice, but did little to mask his intentions as his puppet did all the work for him. With this little barrier broken down, they could finally continue into conversation.

Albeit droning and equally dull in his delivery, it wasn’t his facial expression, or sense of caring that would attract her. Drawing in her hungry mind took little to no effort, and with such an intelligent man miming his words through a probe of unparalleled power, it became a virtually effortless job in the long run. Now, all he had to do was force her into a position that would eventually bring the two together. Not separated my land, or even water; countries apart wouldn’t do and with such a fine specimen, the thought of her being in an entirely different location was all the more horrendous.

“Depends…. Do I seem like what I should be?” He inquired?

Answering her question with a question may have been damaging considering what she followed up with. Nonetheless, it was a double-edged sword; if anything, and IF she was the type that only lived to learn more, she indeed wouldn’t fall asleep. Or at the very least, wouldn’t be able to enjoy such an indulgence of relaxation knowing that there was something breathtaking she could not only learn, but experience. With this, an indiscernible smile loomed overhead, grinning widely at the voluptuous woman and the wraith in human form who continued to look on with stalking, deceased eyes. If she was any true medical practitioner, her observational skills would pay off soon enough.

“Tell me why I should even considering telling you my secrets?” He questioned.

A tone of voice shaping form the previous calm, lifeless variety to a more serious, sharp tone, it would seem the Doktor was tiring himself of such side conversation and finally decided to test her before truly testing her skill and capacity. No bullshit answers would be accepted, and if she wanted anything more out of him, then she would earn it. Her looks would get her nowhere from this point on, and while she may have been intelligent; this wasn’t the time for assumptions. Definite answers only beckoned forth definite results; postulations were for the weak.

[Apple]

To say the truth; I had come here in search of shelter, and only shelter. However, I wasn’t exactly the best sleeper and once I was awake, I tended to stay so for at least a good few hours afterwards- I wouldn’t be able to drift back, and now that I found something eerie out about this place, there was no qualms for me with exploring it a bit deeper and attempting to make sense of the words that he was trying to tell me. It had become quite inexplicable how he was speaking now, but as my mind focused on the things that he was saying, my eyes dug in to him, wanting to know what he was so sorely keeping from me. I wasn’t a person to be messed around with and now that he had suggested the notion that not all was right in this place and there were, undoubtedly, secrets to be found, there was nothing that would stop me from finding out exactly what was up with this place, and more importantly, what he was- As his most recent words suggested something else. And I needed to know.

“Depends…. Do I seem like what I should be?”
”Your house has trees cut down around them- Your physique is quite muscular, and I’m assuming you work on the land for your money since you don’t have any shinobi hi-ate to prove that you’re a shinobi. And yet for someone with a career that’s so focused on working outside, you’re deathly pale. I’d expect anyone to at least pick up the faintest tan.”

A pause would then occur before I’d finally go on as she voiced the things that I had picked up on.
He had prompted me to speak, after all.

”One; You live alone and yet your house is big enough to hold a few more people- By choice or by circumstance? Two; You haven’t changed your clothes since you first let me in- And even then it was late, and usually people would be in nightwear by now. You’re still in your jeans and shirt.” I’d keep speaking about the things that I had picked up on, not really minding or not whether he got a bit upset or weepy from what I was coming to. Each factor was important, and soon I would come to a crescendo that would either satisfy his questioning or should I be incorrect, piss him off. ”Three; You don’t have much of an emotive range when it comes to speaking, it’s pretty.. monotone, I guess. Four; I passed you earlier when coming in to the house. I’m unsure if it’s just that you don’t bathe, but you smelt like damp earth. And finally; your eyes-” another pause, as my own eyes which had past been looking at different aspects of him- His shirt, his arms, then back to the room, and then finally back on the black, almost sunken eyes that he had. ”-I’ve seen livelier eyes in a morgue. ..I think we both know by now.” my judgement was done- All this contributed to one idea that was alive in my mind and yet- It truly sounded as if it was something out of a horror story, and I- the beautiful damsel in distress, had come to realize the truth!

It was inevitable that I give my true viewpoint on the situation. He didn’t smell normal, his eyes were lifeless and dull, his physique, although muscular, wasted somewhat, his skin appearing drained from the lack of blood pumping around his system, and of course, he was soft spoken- The latter of which wasn’t all that important but it added to the idea that what I was guessing, was true. But how could this even be? Flicking my blonde hair back very gently I’d begin to wonder and think back to my textbook days; I’d heard of a few techniques that allowed someone to bring people back from the dead and coming from a standpoint of science it seemed doable seeing as the medical arts had spread so thoroughly that we could do amazing things to people on the verge of death- Perhaps it was possible to bring them back as well? The mere idea of it caused my eyes to burn with lust; I wanted this. Reasons unknown swam around in my head behind my craving for such an ability but I wasn’t even sure if it existed, after all. The shinobi wars had wiped secrets from the earth through death and bloodshed- Lost forever like the thousands of corpses that lay buried beneath the ground even now. Lost like the corpses of those who I treasured most in my heart.

Of course, despite my very serious allegation against his very being I’d keep my eyes focused on him, cold and unmoving- I had made a guess and now it was up to him to reveal whether or not I was right or not- Of course It was simply a guess, just being a medic I’d seen a lot of dead bodies in my time, but none as dynamic as this one. I wouldn’t move my lips nor change my stare, but instead keep my eyes rooted on his face as I came to notice small details from the moonlight that shone on the both of us; Faint scars decorating his body. This of course could be from his assumed occupation as a labourer but then again- With all of the ideas that I had churned in my mind, they might as well be from other things. However, my temporary silence would soon end as he’d ask me another question, feeding my mind with the notion that all was not well in Kami no Shima, his tone much different to that of the calm and composed voice that had past been used.”Me? Why you should tell me?” I’d ask quizzically, my eyes unmoving. I knew my answer already before he even needed to prompt me to explain.

”Because you won't regret it, I assure you.

I'm one of the finest medics that the world has the offer..
..Saving lives may be one thing but ressurecting them?
It sounds.. fascinating.”

With icy eyes staring in to those of Ichiro himself, as if I was trying to see past the guise that was build around him, I'd await my response- I demanded one.

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[Trigga]

Very conscientious, no, that wouldn’t suffice his amusement. EXTREMELY

[/u] attentive! This Blanche—this blonde brilliance was unlike any other Ichiro had encountered in all his years resting in the same homestead in Kumogakure. It was overwhelming, though never in the least bit uncomfortable. If anything, the woman should have felt the better part of uncertainty and discomfort given his unique inability to care. His feelings were for the lack of better words, absent. Nonexistent upon his restoration and with that came the aptitude to care not for anyone else. But more importantly, it allowed the influencing of both his mind and body by the mad doctor himself that much more feasible. The joys of forbidden Ninjutsu; nonetheless, he couldn’t simply give her what she wanted. He had to debate it, challenge her words with his own. Combat her intelligence until she cowered away. Still, the Doktor had high expectations, and though it wasn’t voiced, he truly wanted her to stay and learn.

Her first break in dialect would be rivaled of course, and with a simple cough, a common gesture to gain the attention of another or break away their train of thought, Ichiro would progress into his own annotations. “The climate around these parts are very consistent. Cloudy skies do well to block out the sun and its damaging rays. Unless you were born naturally tanned, or settled here from elsewhere, chances are your pigmentation would adjust little.” Amused by his own swift thinking, reuniting their surroundings to mask his abnormality[/u] was ingenious. Being stationed in Kaminari no kuni, and more specifically near the Hidden Cloud, it wasn’t atypical for the golden orb above to hide behind the expansive blanket of grey. Surely even a foreigner could connect the dots with the name of the famous Hidden Village that rested miles off with its neighboring area.

(“resorting to more keen detailing, huh?”) He couldn’t mask his amusement.

As her eyes danced over his frame, those icy blue spheres taking in everything but what wasn’t important, Ichiro stood motionless and voiced a silent sigh. Concurrently, Viktor laughed his ass off, literally. Falling out of his chair in the darkened room of his laboratory as he was seemingly outsmarted by that of a woman who paid keen attention; maybe enforcing more humane actions would have made diverting her attention easier in the long run. “Not every human bathes… and maybe I just haven’t gotten around to it.” With each word, following another sentence in continuum, Ichiro’s plea wasn’t strengthening, and most likely hinted more to the blonde then he anticipated. She had proven to be quite the intelligent person with her observational skills. Motioning into another stretch, the comatose man was cut off by the last detail that had surely given away his vantage point. And with that a grin would surface—the first one Blanche would have ever seen from the man.

“You couldn’t possibly insinuate that I’m amongst the walking dead?” He inquired.

But she was, and this alone had sealed the Doktor’s interest in Blanche and she had just past the first of his series of mind-boggling, brain splattering, soul crushing tests. He could have easily beaten around the bush and simply given her what she wanted in terms of an answer. Nonetheless there was no fun in simply giving into one’s will without first testing its fortitude. Plus, with such a beautiful and logic defying technique at his disposal, the heir to not only his power, but his Nindō had to parallel with him on every level. This person couldn’t be sub-par, she had to be his equal, and above that with time and understanding, his superior. If she was indeed worthy of this faculty, and if she was indeed what she said she was—one of the finest medics the world had to offer—then his knowledge would surely place her on a pedestal above all others.

“I grow bored of this.” He spoke in his typical calm tone once more, the inflation in his level of seriousness vanishing as he soon took from his seated position and with a simple spin of the heel, faced the door. With a few steps, he motioned over towards its direction, giving off the appeal that he planned to leave; which wasn’t too far from the truth. If she didn’t bother answering his last favor, then he would indeed peter out into the darkness of the corridor outside and she would never[/i][/u] gain what she so desperately wanted. Halting at the door, while still facing its wooden magnetism, Ichiro sighed once more, turning the knob over so nonchalantly.

“Tell me what you think I am… If not this conversation ends here.”

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[Apple]

As the thunder crashed down elsewhere in Kami no Shima, I had no qualms with the weather at the moment as I was aware that I was inside, and really, I figured that I had scarier things to deal with rather than a simple thunderstorm. Continuing to fix my gaze on Ichiro I’d glide my own across his fixed, inky black one, wondering exactly what he was thinking at the moment. Usually I found it pretty easy to see through people as humans tended to be quite ignorant and obvious creatures- Not to say that I wasn’t, but I pulled it off with grace, and I could bullshit out of any scenario that I found myself in which I needed a quick getaway from. However at the moment I was too interested to go out in to the pouring rain and immerse myself in the less than welcome weather of Kumogakure- Too interested perhaps not in Ichiro himself but the meanings behind his words- Or- It would really be a lie should I say I wasn’t interested in him as it was he who proposed the bizarre notion that nothing was all that it seemed.

But no matter how bizarre it was it was plausible. There were many strange things in the world and as I medic, I was aware of the abilities that we as shinobi had- There was nothing we couldn’t do, really, and all in all there was nothing that I couldn’t do personally. As I mused this for a few moments my attention would be stolen away from him once more as he seemed to go against what I had said. ”Pigmentation? Nothing can draw away from the fact that you look ill.” it was truth, of course. Although physically he looked like some kind of ape- With a good layer of muscle, the sheer colour of it was.. very pale- And even with the idea that you couldn’t catch a tan easily here and the other reasons he had to explain the reasons for being as pale as a sheet, I failed to believe him. This was far too mysterious to call it a day and go back to sleep- And by the way that he was responding to me, I was sure that he was enjoying this- Or at least somewhat. One by one he placed the bait out for me to respond to- And I happily took it.

But, as he kept going on and trying to explain himself, it would only cause me to wonder more as to if my guesses were correct after all- I was unsure exactly of the truth but the way that he was making up these reasons for being what he was, it all seemed as if he was just trying to throw some ground over it in hopes of hiding it- But at the same time seeing as he’d started this whole thing, it simply grew more.. bewildering. My mouth would stay silent as he’d move slightly, his hulking arms stretching and moving as words would escape him, as I, alike some kind of child, would sit and listen. ”Insinuating?” a pause. A smirk. ”Darling, I’m saying that you are.” I’d said my mind, and all in all I was just guessing as if it was some kind of game, but my ego, bloated and overwhelming would confirm my adamant opinion on what exactly he was, even if it wasn’t true. There was nothing better that I’d be doing in Kami no Shima at this time of night surely.

“Tell me what you think I am… If not this conversation ends here.”

I took my time. Not because I was thinking, no- I knew what I believed him to be, and there wasn’t that much to be said except for that, but I was simply containing the beauty of the situation that I was in at the moment. Although it was clear that I so deeply wanted to find out why he was saying all of these things, I wasn’t one to be lead blindly, and in return, I had noticed the ways that he had been speaking to me, leading him on almost. It was surely as much of a game to him as it was to me. ”You’re a talking corpse.” I couldn’t really lose much if I gave him the wrong answer, right? Since as far as I knew right now there was nothing to gain except for the knowledge of knowing that I was right. ”..Now answer me this; How is that possible?” I’d ask, as if I was speaking to some kind of long-time friend of mine, my legs crossing over somewhat as I lazed casually on the bed that I had been allowed to sleep in for the night- The idea of sleeping by now had been voided, but I didn’t care. I was only wasting time with my eyes shut anyway.

I didn’t really seem all that surprised that shinobi could bring people back from the dead. It was bound to happen one of these days.

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[Trigga]

Darling… I’m saying that you are..

YES! She had solved the conundrum which was Ichiro, and in such a manner that her composure hadn’t faltered, diminished, or deteriorated. Akin to a volcano erupting, allowing its essence of destruction to spread across the land, Viktor’s laughter became not only hysterical, but unrestrained. Deep within the labyrinth of earth and opportunity did his hellish shrieks of joy echo out only to be trapped by the endless sea of nothingness that surrounded him. A bittersweet sensation it, knew full well that your hideout would never be found unless you revealed it. However this made gathering samples for his experiments that much more complicated.

Nonetheless, that mattered little at the moment. Sitting right before him—or at least one of his many trustworthy minions was the answer to his own personal enigma. Who would I bequeath all that I know to? Who will inherit my knowledge? Years stacked upon years, and endlessly had he searched for such a person—no, a person above the typical person that would please even his high expectations and arouse his ability to trust. Yet, it became a never-ending cycle of failure after disappointment. Those he had chosen weren’t quite as studious as he first projected, or he grew bored of them and disposed of them himself, NO ONE had lasted long enough to test his wits and gain what he had spent a lifetime perfecting.

That was until now; or at least he hoped so! While she had shown quite preliminary potential, it was just that—initial. The initiation of what she had, and only touching the surface of her knowledge. She hadn’t been the first to interest him, and most likely wouldn’t be the last. There was more that had to be done, and more that she had to reveal to him before he could make his decision. But such things couldn’t be discussed here. No, that wouldn’t do. After years of years of farming this cultivated area, and living a false life as a lumberman, it seemed the locals were growing distrustful of his appearance. Though he appeared ill as the woman put it, Ichiro hadn’t aged relatively in the decade he spent in this land. They would have to move, and move now.

“If you want your answers… Then follow me. You’re welcomed to stay here if you like, however….”

And with that, the man without a soul vanished through the opened door, quickly making his way towards the front entrance and finally out into the night’s embrace. His cold, insensible body hugged by the cold breeze which accompanied night, Ichiro was fazed little. One of the perks of being dead—such oddities as the weather did no harm to him. And while Blanche most likely assumed that this technique that gave him life was nothing more than a jutsu that any Shinobi could use, she’d be sadly mistaken. Blanche was only touching the surface of what Viktor’s creation could do.

It was time to meet the man behind the mask.

[Apple]

The time that passed between us as I awaited for his reply to sound to my ears seemed like a lifetime, as I awaited on tender hooks for the response that I needed from him. There was no faltering in my icy gaze that kept its guard up as I stared the man down- If you could call him that. Aware of the true meaning behind the very life that had been breathed in to him, I knew that I was going to fall in to trouble one of these days- And this might as well be it. However, as I stared down this indescribable force I simply lusted whatever power that the person behind him had. Being simply a corpse I figured that he was long gone- His personality at least. There was much more behind this than I had first anticipated, and to say the least, I was fucking happy that I had stumbled upon something worth looking in to in this land. There wasn’t’ all that much to do if I was to be honest, and to be able to learn more on such a level as this- It was desirable, and I was going to have it, mark my words. There was nothing that could get inbetween me and power.

His lips would part, speaking soft words that were surely of his own voice; And yet not of his own bidding. Taking this in to consideration I’d then watch as he’d leave the room- Quickly getting to my feet from the bed I’d almost in a hurry change in to my normal clothes which had by now dried in the heat of the room itself, placing each item on carefully and my weapons pouch on my waist as per usual with my weaponry in their usual places- My thigh and on each side of my ample hips, I’d then exit the room that I’d been allowed to stay in, and would walk down the stairs, each of my steps causing a creaking noise in the wood- This home had been here for a while, which simply made me wonder how long exactly he’d stayed here. But it wasn’t of my concern at the moment- All I cared about at the moment was how I’d be able to learn how to do such a thing, and who was behind all of this. I was sure that I’d read of something like this- But where? I ‘d have to go back, way back to remember exactly what it was.

quickly making his way towards the front entrance and finally out into the night’s embrace.

As my fully clothed form now walked towards the entrance where I’d heard his figure walk along to, I’d soon find the bitter chill of the night biting at whatever flesh that I had on show at the moment. I wasn’t really wearing anything revealing- My face and a part of my neck being the only part of me really that was revealed, I still felt the cold, but the clothing that I wore did help to prevent a lot of the heat in my body being lost- I was warmer than others who were out tonight I was sure, and watching as Ichiro himself, clothed in barely one layer of clothing, stood against the wind and rain, not scared of whatever the elements may bring him. To some degree I envied the fact that his sinister form didn’t worry about such trivial things that humans worried so much about. Although the cold surely penetrated his skin he’d not feel nor complain about it- Right? Or I assumed so- Not to say that I was a wuss of course, I tolerated the weather much more than these fucking princesses that you call ladies. I was more than that; A woman.

Approaching him my exit would be fully done and the rain would gently hit my skin again as I’d turn my eyes towards the deceased body that was so alive in my presence. ”..Lead the way.” I’d say this with a smirk on my face- Not because I was looking to manipulate him in to showing me where it was- Or maybe I was- Even I was unsure, but he’d insisted that I’d follow him, so I was simply stating my desire to go on with this. Neither wind nor rain daunted me away from this. Nothing could. Should he have looked hard enough he’d have noticed a strange look in my eye- Almost as if the amount of things I’d learned tonight satiated what ravishing hunger for knowledge that I had- And to say the least, It surely fucking did. But- I was ready to learn more. No matter the cost.

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[Trigga]

Lead the way…

While she felt the need to give a verbal indication to her own pique, the child should have feared not. For Ichiro was well ahead of her mental command, and bodily distanced some meters as he paced his gradual walk forward deep into the forest topography. Treaded dangerous lands with consistently dangerous climate hazards and a plethora of other problems that would surely hinder brisk traveling would not affect the lifeless man—for that very reason. No blade could hurt him, no technique could comprise him, and no warrior could trounce him. Nothing stood in his way expect the sole individual who created—no, the sole individual who allowed breathe to flow through his lungs once more.

And with that, the two settled onto the precipitous forest plane, and just as easily navigate with the Kumogakure native leading the way. Wasting no time to look back upon the blonde beauty that rested to his rear, Ichiro knew she was still in route. Her soft, almost stifled footsteps being the sole gauge beneath his hypersensitive hearing. If she decided to question him, she’d get no answer, and if she found his awkward silence, needless to say, lackluster and unneeded, she was more than welcomed to turn around and be off with her day. He would not cater to her, and knowing the demeanor of the man he was going to take to her, she would need all the silence she could get at the moment.

“Listen closely, for I’ll only say this once,..” He paused.

Gathering his thoughts in a near instant fashion, the living dead knew what to say next, and with that, for the first time during their concise travel, he’d turn. “We’re going to Tsuchi no Kuni… He’s there.” In addition, with that, his heels spiraled once more and soon, Ichiro found himself facing the northern province once more. Walking gradually, he began to reflect. It had been quite some time since he visited that place—the last time since a mortal felt the need to intrigue his master to be more precise. Hopefully this Blanche was more witty, and capable than the last. Hours would past, which soon transitioned into days; they were off to the Earth Country.


Moved to Tsuchi no Kuni

[Apple]

The rain was pouring down and really; It wasn’t any kind of weather to be out in at the moment- The lightning crashing across the sky confirmed this, but I wasn’t just anyone now was I. I was too good for the scum of the earth, if anything people should award me for even being in this land, but at the moment, all that my sights could be placed on was the curious tale that Ichiro weaved to slyly, drawing me in with every word that he spoke. Of course, I was full aware that I was being drawn in like a mouse to a trap, lured in by the tantalizing offer of knowledge and what power I could attain from it all, but I was more than happy to be led- But not to say that I was blindly following him- No. I knew where I was and where I stood at the moment, and if Ichiro tried anything, I’d be keen to show him who’s the fucking boss. No one outsmarted me- I was on top of the food chain, but maybe- Just maybe whomever had this curious ability rose above me. It was a groundbreaking time to hear myself say those words but- I wanted to know more.

Stroking my long blonde hair I’d keep my gaze watchful on Ichiro as he sped through the dark forestry that surrounded this land. Not as dense as the ones in Hi no Kuni, due to the weather at the moment one could easily mistake it for just that but- I had travelled a lot in the year that I’d been gone from what was left of my village- I was pretty sure that I’d travelled around all of the larger countries that were less tarnished by war and violence, although then again, my travelling brought me nothing. Sooner or later it would be time to return to Kusagakure but from how I’d been hearing the shinobi world as we knew it was headed, I could only think the worst. Keeping my gaze on him as I navigated around branches and bushes, I’d skilfully avoid any things that could whip in my way whilst travelling- Of course I was sure that Ichiro couldn’t care less if he got smashed in the face by a branch, I, however, would be fucking pissed off.

..So I made sure it didn’t happen.

“Listen closely, for I’ll only say this once,.. We’re going to Tsuchi no Kuni… He’s there.

It was just now really that I’d notice how silent it had been- I was aware that Ichiro- Or perhaps his master wasn’t’ the most talkative of people, but with my mind currently clouded with thoughts and thoughts I hadn’t noticed the silence that we had immersed ourselves in whilst travelling. Of course- Like a sheep I had followed him, resulting in my not knowing at the moment where I was headed. Not having the best mental compass around I was unsure of which direction we were moving in but from the environment that was changing around us, I could only but see trees and a growing number of rocks- ..Tsuchi? of course, his words confirmed this, and to say the least, I was pretty fucking proud that I’d managed to guess it. Nodding my head, I’d think; Who was in Tsuchi? ”He must be an important person.” I’d comment; Not as perfect as yourself.. It was a pretty loose one really. Although from the various movies I’d spent watching in my youth Ichiro at the moment did seem like a lackey-type character, taking people to see his master- All he lacked was the hunchback.

But- This was the last that I’d heard of him as of now. My response would perhaps be left unanswered but I didn’t really care- As long as I wasn’t being guided to some kind of attack or gang-rape convention I was glad- This would be an interesting trip then, surely. My form now somewhat drenched by the rain that kept pouring down, my eyes took sight of the sky- At least it looked a bit hopeful that this rain would give up a little soon. Or at least- That was what I hoped.

-MOVE TO TSUCHI NO KUNI.

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[Trigga]

Moved !

She had agreed to his notion of transversing both land and sea in attempts to reach which they both desired so—the attention and audience of the eminent, and dreaded Doktor Viktor! It was also overwhelming, the attention he had received from a beauty unlike any other, and without her actually settling her ocean blue hues upon all his desirability. God, would she even leave after they met up? It didn’t matter much, to be honest; she was more than welcome to stay as long as she liked, bonding in both medicine and body wouldn’t hurt the grey-haired genius. Some Affection of any caliber wouldn’t be flouted.

Tucked within his mountainside habitation, Viktor only could look through a mental window—sharing the eyes and ears of his companion—Ichiro, to further asset the woman behind him, and calculating the time it would take for them to arrive in the stony lands. Nonetheless, knowing that upon her arrival, she’d be faced with two difficult challenges before even reaching his homespun saddened him. Many had failed before her, and surely many would continue that tradition after her escapade-, regardless of her results. It would however, be interesting to watch her journey through his supernumerary eyes. Ichiro knew what was to come, and springing such a reality upon her would surely draw anger. Blanche would be forced to deal with it on her own.

Javelins of pure white obliteration would soon be replaced with light grey clouds, as a sky once dimmed and occupied by falling tears would be replaced with a sunny warm, and brilliant blue blanket. Three days marched their duration time, and finally after miles upon miles on land, and an extensive voyage over the great blue itself, they had arrived in Tsuchi no Kuni. Neglecting bathing, since the smell of death and dirt couldn’t be trounced any longer after his renaissance, all Ichiro was focused on was their landing, which came timely in the form of hours ago dawn. “Have a nice visit in Earth Country, and let the world know that it was Chinagi’s Dancing Dragon that got you here safely!” Despite an expectant and jovial farewell from the ship’s captain, Ichiro did little and said nothing as he exited.

“From here, we’ll travel northeast only for a little. Then you’re on your own.” He documented.

Knowing full well he’d have to direct her in some shape or form, the dead assistant was conscious of the fact that he couldn’t exactly be her tour guide. Giving subtle hints to an anticipated prodigy would suffice, hopefully her sense of direction and detailing would parallel with her beauty. It would be a shame to see Blanche fail before the true test even started. Stepping down from the wooden plank and allowed sandaled soles to settle on land once more, the man awaited Blanche; hopefully she wasn’t too far behind.

[Apple]

By now the silence hadn’t really become worse- I didn’t care, frankly. It was better to have him not speak at all rather than drone simply to fill a gap, really- Or at least in my mind I saw it in that way. I was unable to comprehend exactly the amount of power that I’d surely be touching the surface of in this journey but then again- I deserved every one blessing that came my way. And if it meant meeting those with gifts perhaps almost equal to my brilliance, then so be it. I’d learn from the experience. My long blonde hair flowing behind me elegantly as I sped through the trees my eyes would be set on Ichiro- And soon, my sights would be set not just on the figure himself but on the world around me as it changed before my eyes- From forestry to a seascape, I found my form gliding gently over the water in order to reach the unknown destination that Ichiro was currently leading me to- Or so I thought. With the secrecy that had been surrounding him, at the moment I expected him to blindfold me and lead me to wherever his master could be found.

Hours turned in to.. more hours as we’d travel and I found myself getting on and off ships and boats but- The moment that Ichiro’s lips began to part, the first word I instantly caught on to, listening to what he had to say- I knew that it wouldn’t’ be that long now, or I assumed so seeing as he was very intent on keeping his words minimal. As he spoke, I’d keenly pick up on what had been said, taking in to accordance just what the man- If I could still call him that, was saying to me.

“From here, we’ll travel northeast only for a little. Then you’re on your own.”

It was understandable enough- But only if he was going to lead me to whoever was behind him, exactly. Of course I was pretty fucking amazing to say the least but I was no mindreader, so I had no clue at the moment of where he could possibly be. Facing the world alone wasn’t something that I was unfamiliar to- For the past few years I had newly become acquainted to this acute sense of loneliness but by now it had numbed- I didn’t need people around me in order to feel safe and conform to their viewpoints. I was my own fucking crowd if I wanted to be. I didn’t need anyone- Only myself. It was better off that way.

the man awaited Blanche; hopefully she wasn’t too far behind.

My feet continuing to pound against the earth, I was creating my own sense of elegance- Of course, women running about the place wasn’t generally thought of as the gentle and fragile creatures that we were meant to be- But I was more than that. I’m aware that I’m beautiful- There isn’t much else to say about that except the fact that I have not met anyone who could even skim meeting my unmatched beauty. I remained unique; Beautiful; A golden child amongst the dirty, grubby soles of other people. Ichiro keenly awaited for me to catch up but being a very small distance behind him- Still being lead, as he seemed to continue to show me the way, I found it to be at least a little bit patronizing exactly how he was waiting for me- But in another way I found it quite nice. He was waiting for me- His attention was drawn to me- And unlike a sheep, I was to be escorted- (Yes, escorted was the word I was looking for) across the rocky terrain of Tsuchi no kuni.

And now- I’d wait for him to break off once more or explain to me what was going to happen next. In the meantime, my hands would drop to my sumptuous hips and rest there for a few moments as my icy blue gaze fell on ichiro again, prompting him to resume travelling, or at least tell me what needed to be done next- I was aware that I’d be by myself, but where did I need to go?

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[Trigga]

“Not long… yeah... Not long at all…”

Shadows concealing an obvious machination against nature itself, the artificial home which resided within one of the many mountainous structure rattled with a incredible vibrations. Summoning from not the bowels of a grand beast, or monstrous attack, but a simple human—no, a being standing above the realm of humanity. The Doktor—Viktor resting on a plinth that both transcended life and death; he could manipulate both sequences of existence and bend it to his very well. Nothing was out of reach and no deceased patron could resist his metaphysical charm. This had been proven many times over, and demonstrations of such godly genius would not halt any time soon.

This was further reinforced with the anticipation of an inheritor—a worthy soul that would eventually—with time and commitment would be able to surpass both. This Blanche, she held a certain swagger about herself; an amalgamation of physical and mental traits that separate made for quite the disgusting individual. But when aligned, and merged into one entity, they formulated a being more potent than even the strongest of Ninjutsu: Desirability, allure, seduction, intelligence, conceitedness—a strong confidence, and finally slyness. All these innate skills of an ancient, though polished trade forced her above the norm, and Viktor wouldn’t forget this. He wouldn’t be like the others and fall for her false sense of security. After all, his genius DID surpass her own.

As such, from his grand oak desk, resting calmly in a padded throne while numerous medical and scientist tools and instruments laid scattered in the masses around his expansive area, the Man behind the mask waited. Hands cupped, and fingers laced, Viktor looked towards a grand steel door, the main entrance which was also concealed behind a rather impressive fūin which allowed its construct to blend in with its surrounding earthen comrade. Lights shining anew, the definition of dimness wasn’t present—any medical facility required sufficient light of course. NONETHELESS, this wasn’t important, and while he waited, the Doktor simply continued to snigger to himself, entertained.

Meanwhile, back to present times on the dirt pathway, time had seem to dance off into the distance. An hour had past, and the seemingly abstemiously sized docks vanished into the background. Meeting an incline, the pathway seem to tilt upwards—a ramp forming as the tow traveled on what appeared to be an ascending corridor into the mountainous landscape. “This is where we separate. Continue up this path and you’ll find your way… Watch out for Zuzu, though.” And with that, he vanished!? A cloud of smoke concealing his instant escape as he distanced himself greatly without effort on his behalf. A reverse summoning clarifying his grand exit.

Miles upon miles still set a gap between where Blanche’s attendance was required; however to his unknowing self, another challenge rested at the frontal base of a grand mountain-side stretch. A mass of forest—dense as it were in profusion encircling the location of minimal foliage and plentiful open space. A woman, no older than fifteen however resting in the dead center—her body posture calm, though ready to react on impulse. Surely if anything came to the open, she’d catch on impressively fast. Though like all, there was always a way around.

[Apple]

“This is where we separate. Continue up this path and you’ll find your way… Watch out for Zuzu, though.”

Through mixed murmurings my company seemed to part with a word of warning at the end- What the fuck was a Zuzu? Of course, the first thing that came to mind was some kind of guard dog or.. perhaps a person meant to guard whatever lair that this person had made home in? It was something along the lines of that surely, so as the figure of Ichiro disappeared in to the day, leaving me by myself. Of course keeping his words in mind I’d carefully scan the hill that the both of us had been walking up, my movement having been stalled slightly as he’d speak to me. However- after this I’d hastily begin walking once more- Of course, unluckily I wasn’t gifted with chakra seeing capabilities- I was an amateur sensor, that was one thing for sure but I wasn’t good enough just yet to use these with full confidence- Or, I had enough confidence but I was so slow at using it that by the time I’d sense something of interest then they surely would have found me by then.

Brushing my blonde hair to the left somewhat I’d keep walking up- What I lacked in gifted dojutsu was made up in my attention to detail- Of course not to say that my reaction speed was the best but I was pretty good at keeping calm in ambush situations. If anything was to happen then I’d be ready to fight back. I’d been hinted by Ichiro to keep an eye out so that’s exactly what I’d do to make sure that I wouldn’t be caught blind. ”….” However, despite the fact that my need for power drove me forwards, I couldn’t help but feel in the back of my mind that only bad could surely come from this. But I didn’t fucking care- Or did I?- I.. wasn’t exactly sure on that but what I was sure about was my ability to learn –If I simply let my mind waste then I’d be nothing, let alone live up to my namesake. I had a reputation to keep up and I couldn’t let it falter now- Not in the eyes of someone who might just exceed my own abilities.

[OOC: I’m a little bit confused on this bit- Am I near this open bit where the girl is, or is it a fair distance off? I’m assuming that it’s close since it’s mentioned but if I’m wrong I’ll edit this post!]

As I allowed my eyes to explore the surrounding land, I’d keep on the path that I was currently on to prevent myself from going elsewhere and going in a direction that was unlike the one that Ichiro had given me. My feet padded gently against the earth alike any lady, as I’d try to keep my eyes plastered on the world around me as I travelled. It wasn’t as if I was paranoid or- Perhaps it was, but mostly I was simply just making sure that this Zuzu didn’t attack me when I wasn’t looking. Of course it was hard to look everywhere at the same time but right now I was doing a pretty damn good job at it. ”……” Since blanketed me as I’d keep walking along the path that continued to be led up the mountain. I was aware that I was alone at the moment without Ichiro to guide me, so I needed to be careful and correct on my way. Of course I was told that I’d find my way- But how? Such questions lay unanswered.

But I soon found that perhaps this question would be answered itself as I found myself slowly peeking through a series of trees and able to see some kind of blank canvas of an area- But of course, due to the fact that whomever I was trying to find was of course, able to use such a power as I’d been shown, I doubted that where he was hiding would be so obvious and out in the open, right? Pausing for a few moments and looking in to the empty space I’d then wait for a few moments- Would it be a waste of time if I was to cut through..? Keeping my eyes plastered on the few inches of light that showed an empty space I’d approach it slowly as visibility soon got clearer, allowing myself to see the figure of what appeared to be a girl- Much younger than myself but not as pretty, of course. Slowly entering the clearing with my beautiful brilliance, I’d stand a total of thirty five meters from this girl, watching as she seemed to quietly sit in the middle- What was this?

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[Trigga]

SPOILER: Click to show

I apologize for the confusion, Apple. But you’re correct. I stated miles upon miles for the simple fact that it could be covered in your post without guidance since Zuzu would be directly in front of you in terms of the pathway you took. Since you were already on the right path, all you had to do was walk further into the mountainous forest terrain.

SPOILER: Click to show

So quick to rush into death; eagers eyes only feeding an eager mind to fodder on the information that would upset even the most intelligent device. Hands greedily reaching out for a sense of acceptance in the form of this amazing technique that would place her above every other Medical practitioner the worlds has seen in current times. Ingenuous of the dangers that surfaced in the unknown and without a clue to what mattered in the broad scale, dozens had perished traveling her same road, would she simply add to the list of failures? Maybe she was the exception; Zuzu would be the judge of this. If she didn’t stack up to the expectations the Doktor had, or to her assumptions content, she’d die here today.

Though this Blanche didn’t seem all too intelligent. Walking directly out into a fifty-by-fifty meter opening of pure flat rock. Encompassed by an array of dense woodland, the art of surprise and secrecy could have easily been implicated there. Needless to say, she was ignorant or gutsy; Zuzu was damn sure hoping for the latter. Sun hovering high above, complimenting a beautiful clear sky, surprise wouldn’t be a factor now, the blonde had revealed herself, and if the common pigeonhole of their idiocy would be proven truthful today, it seemed Viktor would have to find himself a new potential student. A circle enclosure, they were all but inhabited, the Hideout in the vicinity, but its location only announced with the persuasion of the young woman.

Approaching fifteen meters from the coppice, she found herself thirty-five meters from the most attractive woman the blonde had seen. Long, dark hair—silk to the touch with a fine, and clean texture. A body just as voluptuous, if not more perfected with the lack of aged declines. Almond eyes, a deep charcoal, and an attire that concealed nothing, Blanche would find herself staring down a dark-haired counterpart. Just as beautiful, and just as bent on executing her purpose. “Tch.. this is the conceited bitch the Dok told me about? In a few years her chest will be super saggy.” Idle thoughts surfacing not in the physical world as the blonde approached, Zuzu simply resting her back against the base of a large earthen massif.

“You Blanche?” She inquired acerbically, though a tone still refined and elegant.

Knowing full well of her identity, attempting to lie would only put herself at a detriment, and closer to death. Armed with an assortment of tools of destruction concealed with the series of two pouches and compartments on her body, and an evident blade strapped to her lower waist, it was evident to assume she was combat-hardened. Nonetheless, her strength didn’t reside in her weapons, but the intrinsic talents bestowed upon her at birth—the right of being born into a clan of untold powers. This snob woman would be wise to watch her tone.

[Apple]

Keeping in mind the warning that had been given to me about Zuzu- The name could only fit to either a puppy, a little boy, or a female- Seeing as there was a girl directly in my path at the moment, I’d figure the latter, although just because she was younger than me- I couldn’t trust her- Whatever warning Ichiro had given me, it was for the best, or so I assumed. So with this in my mind I’d keep my eyes plastered on her- In all fairness she was a pretty girl but not as pretty as me. There was no-one alive that could ever even think of matching the perfect features which I so elegantly had, not even this person. Keeping my guard up and my hair voluminous I’d keep watching, listening as she spoke over words, questioning me about my name. At a steady 35 meter distance, I was far away enough to react in time if she decided to go psycho on me and try beating the shit out of me. Unfortunately for her; I’d seen more wars than she had dolls, and I had experience on my side. However- The fact remained; If the girl was so innocent then why warn me about her? Surely there was something profound about her that could be of risk to me.

“You Blanche?”
”I am. I'm assuming that you're Zuzu.”

Speaking these words in an equally elegant tone, I’d speak to her like an adult- Of course, the chick part was questionable but I called everyone by that. The tension between us was quite rife as neither of us spoke now as I simply gazed at her being- Taking note of the various pouches on her waist along with the sharpened sword which hung from her waist- Alike my own, a beautifully crafted katana around my waist, a dagger on the other side, and a special pair of spiked knuckle dusters which rested beautifully on my thin, dexterous hands- Along with various secondary weaponry. But the most attractive part? My air vents, carefully hidden away under my gloves and skin- But she wouldn’t know about this. Posing as some kind of Amazonian warrior, I’d show her who was the fucking queen if needed. Continuing to look at her in the same loosely interested look I’d wait fro the either of us to speak; As since continued for another moment or so, I could but say:

”What are you doing in these forests?”

It was a simple enquiry, and as I’d say these words, my gaze would be unmoving as was hers. I was alone on this journey of mine, and it had been instilled within me that I could trust anyone fully- But then again that had been instilled within me years ago after the war. Things had never been the same since then, and I was fully aware of that. My right hand raising and brushing some blonde hair out of the way, I’d let it tumble gently to the long length of just above my ass, the gentle, soft curls radiating angelic qualities as my skin, clear and fresh, went well with the combination of my hair and the baby blue eyes that I was so well known for. It was these that truly made me look like an angel- I was an angel- A goddess sent down from the heavens to judge humanity on the wrongdoings that they did. However beautiful the world had become corruption was rife and I was the one to stop it. My blue eyed gaze twitching for but a single time, I’d then resume my position by looking at her. There was no-one was beautiful as me. Sorry hun.

[/b][/color] All weapons on person.
> 35 Meters away from Zuzu.[/ul]
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