Destruction: Crashing the Chuunin Exams! [1]

[Katsumaru]

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SPOILER: Click to show

Hyper Sealing 1

Hinote (Heat Resilience) [175 EXP]
Rank: D, C, B, A, S
Type: Supplementary / Clan Kekkei Touta / Youton Ninjutsu
Range:Self
Chakra: ---
Special: Each rank allows immunity to flames and fire of jutsu one rank below their own skill rank.
Description: With mastery over the arts and skilled manipulation over their own body temperatures, those of the Airontoku develop an affinity for the heat and grow more physically immune to flames and magma, to the point they soon walk through fire and lava unharmed.
Domain: Airontoku.


Airontoku (Ironhide) [175 EXP]
Rank: D, C, B, A, S
Type: Supplementary / Clan Kekkei Touta / Youton Ninjutsu
Range: Self
Chakra: ---
Special: Each rank allows immunity to bladed physical attacks of one rank less - i.e. the 'C' ranked version blocks 'D' ranked attacks, etc. Does not guard against blunt or smashing type attacks.
Description: Over time spent with intense magma exposure and control, the skin of the user becomes resilient to weapons to a certain degree. With this prolonged exposure to the heat, their skin becomes rough and rugged, like that of leather, but to a much more durable degree. As such weapon attacks from bladed weapons such as kunai and swords become less effective against the clan member.
Domain: Airontoku.



Yōton: Yōkai no Jutsu ( Lava Release: Melting Apparition ) [50 EXP]
Rank: C
Type: Offensive / Defensive Yōton Ninjutsu
Range: See Fushokuzai
Chakra: Moderate
Special: Releases a thin sheet of lava above the battlefield, which tries to corrode anything unfortunate enough to have the technique fall on top of them.
Description: After forming hand seals, the user spits a large, thin sheet of lava into the air above the battlefield, the maximum size of which is determined by their Fushokuzai. This technique, if used correctly, prevents those under the sheet of magma from an easy aerial escape. The sheet will then quickly descend, the outer edges quicker than the rest, attempting to trap and then smother anything unfortunate enough to be caught under this attack.
Domain: Yōton

ushokuzai (Corrosion Disolvance Factor) [175 EXP]
Rank: D, C, B, A, S
Type: Supplementary / Youton Kekkei Touta
Range: 0 - 50 meters
Chakra: Low - Massive
Special: Allows the user the ability to create, control and move Youton (Lava) chakra of their own for multiple purposes. Level of corrosion and intensity of lava is determined by highest rank learned, materials of the same rank will take a full turn of contact with lava to dissolve and materials of lower ranked will be melted instantly.

* D: 10 meters
* C: 20 meters
* B: 30 meters
* A: 40 meters
* S: 50 meters


Description: Youton, the marriage of Earth, Fire and Water, yields a new and truly terrifying substance - lava. Birthed from the user's very chakra control and the simultaneous binding of these two substances, the Corrosion Disolvance Factor exists as the user's corrosion gauge. Essentially, as their control over the kekkei touta grows, so will the strength of the corrosion of lava, as well as the size and area of control. In their most basic state, the Youton user is able to summon a fixed amount of Lava within an designated area, and further the birthing by controlling the substance to their will.
Domain: Youton.

SPOILER: Click to show

Edit: Fixed the BBC. Had an underline tag messed up in the techs listed

[King]

Masumi’s arrival was, to say the least, a largely unexpected surprise. Naturally, he’d felt her – his own chakra – the moment she’d came within a reasonable distance of her stalwart lover; still, that hadn’t stopped him from hoping he’d been wrong. There was a reason he’d left her in Mizu no Kuni, protected by the well-guarded walls of Kirigakure – a very explicit reason, one that she knew better than he.

“She knows that she shouldn’t be here,” Kouketsu intercepted before his lover might’ve been able to answer, not attempting to mask his contempt. In fact, he was quite obvious; very uncharacteristic of the usually apathetic Uchiha. He was showing a side only two people knew exist, one of which stood at his side. The other hadn’t arrived, yet.

Breaking his gaze from the scene unfolding before him, ignoring any statement the newcomer might’ve had, his unique Sharingan reluctantly found themselves resting on her soft, inviting features. Nagato’s comment made it quite obvious he was well-aware of the situation too, and like his kin, Kouketsu’s interest wasn’t wasted on her drastic physical changes. No, this was something far more important.

“I left you in Kirigakure for a reason.” Despite his disappointment in her refusal to listen, his tone remained calm. What was said next was unprecedented thus far. “You know that your safety comes first, Masumi. It’s too risky for you to be here.”

It wasn’t a second later that, out of his peripherals, he caught sight of the final piece to this little puzzle. Though still somewhat distant, Kouketsu could easily make out the details that defined Ue. In all the twenty-six years the Uchiha had been alive, he’d never met anyone that looked quite like him. Unfortunately, among these many details he’d gathered in a matter of seconds, he could also discern the. . . difference. Had things been according to plan, his long-time friend would’ve been overcome with happiness; a grin from ear to ear would’ve certainly marked his lips, as their dreams and goals became a reality. No, something was amiss.

“I’ll handle this.” Stepping forward and peering over the edge of the stake-like mound, he glanced over his shoulder momentarily. “Masumi, stay here until I get back.” The look in his eye, one she’d often seen, would’ve told her that this wasn’t a request. Nothing else needed to be said; Nagato knew what to do.

His next step was accompanied by simply vanishing into thin air, with nothing more than a sudden gust of wind as testament he’d even been there.

---

While the feeling between the two shinobi definitely wasn’t mutual, the fact remained the same: they’d both seen each other, perhaps even at that distance, made very brief eye contact. What happened next should’ve, and very well could’ve, been almost predicted by the wayward Iwagakure shinobi. They had a lot to talk about and virtually zero time, and Kouketsu wasn’t one to send pawns in to handle his own dirty work; no, this needed to be handled personally.

Manifesting from one of the many shadows the Kikkawa used to obscure himself from the others in the nearby area, he probably would’ve felt Kouketsu before he even had time to say anything. Though he hadn’t been present the entire time, he’d caught the tail-end of the blond-haired nin’s question. Going off several words, Kouketsu’s riposte was more than adequate. “I’ve done everything I swore that I would all those years ago.”

It was painful for Kouketsu to realize that Ue had bloomed into the man destined to oppose his rule. The thought had crossed his mind back then, when they’d been stranded in the cave off the border of Hi no Kuni; however, hoping for the best, he’d pushed the doubt aside. Trust was a very fickle thing, and in the world of shinobi, handed out seldom to never. But when it was, that trust usually defined a bond beyond the comprehension of the living coil.

No matter.

“And if you aren’t with me, then you’re against me!” The ultimatum would’ve punctuated the final seal of several in a blurry pair, to which the next breath gave birth to a technique. The pillar of flame erupting from the Uchiha's throat would’ve devoured the handful of meters separating the two shinobi, and the light and smoke from its explosion would’ve rocked the earth and eclipsed any event that had happened in the burning district thus far.

Hardly agile enough to catch the nimble Kikkawa; however, Kouketsu was more than prepared for the chase that would ensue moments later. Through the coffin of smog and smoke his figure would cut, appearing upon the edge of a roof parallel to the alley that had essentially just been blown to bits.

Narrowing his eyes as he thoroughly scanned the immediate and nearby vicinity, he waited patiently. Ue’s clock had slowly begun its countdown.

SPOILER: Click to show

Sharingan: Stage 3¹; ___²;Goukakyuu no Jutsu (Great Fireball Technique)³

[Sayomi]

Feeling the cryptic gaze of Kouketsu, she knew immediately he was displeased with her arrival, but Masumi was one who could not sit idly by while the action unfolded, this was a battle that'd either set Kirigakure up as the greatest superpower or trigger its glorious fall into defeat. Masumi couldn't have something as such happened and so even though she knew the danger, the possible threat to something so precious, she still, as Mizukage had to and would act with her village as top priority.

"I can manage."

With her eyes falling onto Kouketsu, she mused over his words, their truth was undeniable, but her own reasons forced her into such a situation. She had no plans on putting herself in her current state in danger, but neither was she so reclined to accept sitting in the safety of her home, hiding behind those who fought.

"I know Kouketsu, I couldn't just rest in safety, Im more then capable of keeping whats precious safe and myself."

Something had pulled her lovers gaze from herself, meaning it was important, before she could step forward he gave his orders, and his gaze told her that he'd only worry making her a liability for his safety. Biting her lip, she sucked her teeth as he vanished before her. "Hurry back..." Squatting upon the mound of fallen debris and bodies she looked out with prying eyes. She was stuk here till his return, so she was left to simply watch as the action unfolded with Nagato by her side. Masumi couldn't bare being confined and protected as she was, but she knew full well if she jumped into the chaotic fray, she'd only make things worse. As Mizukage she would simply oversee the battle now, from the sidelines until she was absolutely needed to step forward.

[Jae]

kumakyōdai

Kouketsu's manifestation produced a feint ripple in the aura of solitude I comfortably plotted in, his presence sending an alerting buzz up my spine that caused the hairs on the back of my neck to stand. And though I was unaware of his location, I ensured that not only my movements but even my breath maintained a deathly stillness. It was only when his familiar, baritone timbred retort crept from the shade behind me that I knew where to face, and I did so immediately. Needless to say, his response was not what I'd hoped for, and given the emotional twinge his outburst carried I could tell he was beyond himself. Whether it meant anything or not, I know I was too.

While his initial statement carried forth, I cautiously lifted my hands slightly above my pelvis as to not directly alert his eye before they converged into a familiar sequence of seals. It wouldn't have surprised me if he'd seen me outright but given his propensity to lash out in these situations, it was best to act quickly and preemptively. Given the lucidity of his chant, I estimated the distance between us was shorter than I was comfortable with. It was only when he spoke again that I could properly assess the parameters and set my gambit in motion.¹

The Uchiha's final roar, a phantasmal display of power unlike any I'd ever seen nearly left me petrified in it's wake. The sustenance of his assault seemed to embody the steadfast afflux I knew to be Kouketsu. In my eyes, this made his assault resemble the exultant cry one brother belts after reuniting with his long departed sibling, a gesture of contentment that only those bound fully comprehended. He was showing a side I felt only I knew existed.

The only problem was my brother didn't gesture like normal men and women. Where they got hugs and jeers of endearment, I found myself set afront a billowing surge of flames whose being made the entire alley come alive in a new way. It's conjuration produced an incapacitating flash that forced me turn to shield my eyes, a minor setback that I quickly overcame by imagining my endgame. I'd unconsciously envisioned my plan coming to fruition multiple times over during the dire instant, whose proclivity seemed to dilate time significantly. It was here, in this infinitesimal blip of existence, that I found peace in knowing we would be okay.

"Koukets—" BOOM!!!

What remained of the area around and behind me after the fireball connected with my frame² collectively rocketed from the aft opening, spewing wreckage into the open streets of Bakudon Gai and the surrounding territory. Had I not taken the initiative to prepare for his well telegraphed assault I would've been decimated, but all I felt was an uncomfortable sting situated on the outermost layer of my skin. Such was the tax of using that kind of barnyard subterfuge, I only hoped my efforts would forego the power of his Sharingan.

[/style]
My movement, masked by the immensity of his Gōkakyū, would leave me in lieu of what I'd manifested behind Kouketsu during his reproval, and a mere arms distance away. What truthfully lay wasted behind his torrential fireball was one of five mud clones I'd switched places with around the moment of impact. Meanwhile the other four stood fully constituted, awaiting orders. I took the window of opportunity I'd gained from the switch to reach forward and grasp Kouketsu's shoulder, where a simple thought set my hand ablaze³-- and at that moment I knew I had his attention, even if it was only temporary.

I would force his ebullient chakra to gradually bring itself to a workable medium that made the extraction process much smoother by introducing my own clan-specific chakra.⁴ This energy also had the unique ability to temporarily paralyze the target as long as contact was maintained. Knowing this I issued orders to my clones instructing them to take Kouketsu's fore end amongst taking other precautions. And so they promptly obliged, preparing their solitary hand seals along the way⁵.

My grip on his shoulder was rather lax given the circumstances but, for some reason or another, I had the slightest inclination to apprehend him. I was moreover mesmerized and genuinely flattered to see him after being separated for so long. To see what had become of the haggard, deviled eyed switchblade after what had been easily the most difficult period of my life stood out as, bar the conditions, absolutely incredible. Yet despite even those awesome conditions, I still found the reserve to remain reticent when I spoke to him.

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“You haven't changed a bit have you, Anikuma-tono?”

My words flowed in a manner that favored his own characteristic tepidity.

SPOILER: Click to show

Deido Bunshin (Mud Body Double).¹;
Kawarimi no Jutsu (Body Replacement Technique)²;
Chakra Kyuuin no Jutsu (Chakra Absorption Technique)³;
Chakra Ishida no Jutsu ⁴;

SPOILER: Click to show

_________⁵;

[King]

Notice
Sachi has been skipped this time around. Failing to post next round will result in being disqualified from the event. Posting order continues as normal.

[marvolous.]

It wasn't surprising my assumption had been right on the dot. Masumi was, for a lack of a better term, a burden on the battle field. Though Kouketsu couldn't - or wouldn't - formulate the word himself, it was evident by his sheer reaction how much of an impact her being here had on him. I was so used to that cold and calculating demeanor that hung about him, that I almost forgot he was human.

Naturally, with his sudden diversion of attentiveness from Masumi my eyes followed his own as they traced the land below us. Hidden among the destruction was the presence of another, not an ordinary shinobi like the ones that had perished in the battle - no, his strength was paramount to them. Without even having to look at Kouketsu, I knew what he was going to do; the Tsuchikage had arrived.

"Go. She'll be safe." I cooed, the words I spoke bold and adamant. Even though I was forced to remain far from the lines of battle, there was no one better to protect Masumi aside from myself. Kouketsu must have realized this as well; there was too much on the line for him to have to worry about the safety of his loved ones. However, that didn't stop me from divulging my thoughts of them once he had left.

"Coming here was foolish, Masumi." I stood from my crouch, once again tracing her form with my gaze as I stepped closer to her. "You're nothing but a handicap to us being here. As long as you stay-- as long as you have them, you'll just burden Kouketsu." Cold? Perhaps. Unfortunately, it was truth. I wouldn't let her-- no, I wouldn't let anyone -- interfere with our plans. If that meant taking her out myself? So be it.

"Do us a favor and go back to the village; I'd hate to see you get in the way."

[Hop]

Hiro watched in wonder as to how a kunai seemingly deflected off this man. While he did bear armor, it didn't seem to be composed of such material to do such a thing. He assumed it was caused by a technique, but he spent little thought on it. Instead he figured he should handle the matter at hand, as his opponent began weaving seals. He forwarded to the man with a Shunpo, stopping half a meter away. It seems his timing only allowed him to be in front of him as the technique finished.

Forced to move quick, he moved forward the hilt of his Shotel, already drawn before the Shunpo, to slam into his enemy's diaphragm. To follow up, if the man brought forth no counter, he would use his open hand to bring a quick jab square in the man's nose. Together the combo would cut off his wind temporarily while the jab an attempt to throw him off balance.

The attack being swift, he used a second shunpo to evade the lava bringing himself to his left, farther from the third man[Sachi] and closer to the man who just created a very tantalizing fire[Koketsu]. He moved the whole ten meters, bringing himself outside the lava sheet's range. He glanced to the man he assualted, he checked to see his current condition, wondering how he'd react to the lava descending upon him, and if he could still fight. In all honesty, the newly lit fire turned into a much more appealing situation then what this fight is.

SPOILER: Click to show

2/6 Shunpo[1 regular, 1 side-step]

[Katsumaru]

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SPOILER: Click to show

1/2 shunshin

Fushokuzai (Corrosion Disolvance Factor) [175 EXP]
Rank: D, C,B, A, S
Type: Supplementary / Youton Kekkei Touta
Range: 0 - 50 meters
Chakra: Low - Massive
Special: Allows the user the ability to create, control and move Youton (Lava) chakra of their own for multiple purposes. Level of corrosion and intensity of lava is determined by highest rank learned, materials of the same rank will take a full turn of contact with lava to dissolve and materials of lower ranked will be melted instantly.

* D: 10 meters
* C: 20 meters
* B: 30 meters
* A: 40 meters
* S: 50 meters

Description: Youton, the marriage of Earth, Fire and Water, yields a new and truly terrifying substance - lava. Birthed from the user's very chakra control and the simultaneous binding of these two substances, the Corrosion Disolvance Factor exists as the user's corrosion gauge. Essentially, as their control over the kekkei touta grows, so will the strength of the corrosion of lava, as well as the size and area of control. In their most basic state, the Youton user is able to summon a fixed amount of Lava within an designated area, and further the birthing by controlling the substance to their will.
Domain: Youton.

Kazan Hai Kichou (Volcanic Ash Screen) [50 EXP]
Rank: C
Type: Defensive / Youton Kekkei Touta
Range: 0-50 Meters
Chakra: Mid
Special: The area which the screen covers depends on the highest “Fushokuzai” rank known. The screen can be blown away by a Fuuton jutsu of rank C or higher.
Description: The users employs youton in a different manner with Kazan Hai Kichou. He spits forth a ball of lava-covered rock incapable of causing any damage. A thin layer of chakra prevents the lava from immediately burning the rock. Upon contacting any sort of surface the force causes the ball to erupt by breaking the protective layer of chakra, and immediately spreads a layer of volcanish ash in the area by allowing the heat to disintegrate the rock. The breaking of the chakra layer not only allows the two substances to connect, but creates an energetic burst which spreads the volcanic ash. The range which it spreads Depends on Fushokuzai. The ash screen is thick, difficult to see through, but causes no damage aside from slight irritation to the lungs should the ash be inhaled, easily prevented by holding ones breath. Kazan Hai Kichou is not an offensive technique but serves as cover for an escape or as means to support subtlety.
Domain: Youton, Fushokuzai: Rank C

[King]

Times had changed.

They weren’t stranded in a cave anymore, scavenging off the dead and weak animals that made that treacherous mountain their home. No, they weren’t broken men with nothing but each other to help themselves get through the day. Kouketsu was, by all means, the same man he was back then; however, he’d become far more observant. His Sharingan, which could have very well been compared to a newborn child, were now fully matured; his chakra, which was once nothing more than a timid flame, was now as uncontrollable and overwhelming than the ocean itself; and his mind had become sharper than any blade.

Despite his best efforts to conceal his movements, it was all crystal clear to the tyrannical Uchiha he called brother. The Kikkawa’s initial technique, and the follow-up, occurred at a truly admirable speed. It was even difficult for the Sharingan to actually track, let alone identify. However, it was more than enough for Kouketsu to prepare a fitting response. The aftermath of his initial technique, which was followed by the explosive katon-based assault (lights, flames and smoke), would provide the perfect cover to facilitate his escape, generated by a very brief set of seals.

Clank! It was a barely audible tap as Ue’s palm rested against the armored shoulder, his hand ablaze, which would leave man before him utterly stunned. Though brief, it would’ve given the Kikkawa a handful of moments to siphon the chakra as he sought fit. Strangely, his victim made no effort to thwart off the aggressor once he would be able to. But with those handfuls of mud clones busy with their own techniques, would it have really matter?

“You’re right,” he replied weakly, “but you’ve gotten sloppy, Kumakyodai-tono.”

Again, the statement would’ve punctuated the sudden arrival of lights and power spawning behind the entire group – the clones, Ue and the Kou before him. Having used the very brief window the destruction his previous katon-based technique had created, which followed the creation of a shadow clone¹, he too had effectively demonstrated his handle over the body-swap jutsu². Had Ue been allowed to simply siphon chakra from the shadow clone for just a bit longer, he would’ve found the strain to be too much for the carbon-copy to cope with. With a poof, he would have effectively rendered it into nothing.

Unfortunately for his intended victims, the distance between Kouketsu and the rear flank of the clones was a meager three meters, making the time it would’ve taken the dragon-shaped pillar of flame³ to devour said distance, and its targets, almost instant. But it wouldn’t stop there – razing the mud constructs wouldn’t have been nearly enough to slake the ravenous beast’s hunger, and with an equally frightening speed, it would seek purchase on Ue and the clone he gripped.

The explosion that would’ve followed easily dwarfed the previous, this one shaking the buildings on either side of the alley, causing rubble and debris to collapse into the miniature battlefield. Whether or not it worked – likely as it hadn’t – one thing was certain: staying in this enclosed little hall wouldn’t be feasible for much longer. Already the tall structures to either their left or right had begun to wobble, their infrastructure all but destroyed from the shockwave of the back-to-back explosions. It’d only be a matter of seconds before they collapse, birthing disfigured cloud of smoke that rose countless feet into the air, and equally as wide.

Like he’d intended in the first place, the armored Uchiha would cut through the swath of destruction, piercing the cloud’s eastern side⁴. Landing on his toes, crouched low with a gloved hand skimming the earth to steady himself, Kouketsu would be in clear visibility of his companions and enemies. Only a handful of meters from Nagato and his lover, and even further from the gathering of others (Katsu, Sachi, and Hop), it was evident the two siblings wouldn’t be interrupted.

SPOILER: Click to show

1. Kage Bunshin no Jutsu (Shadow Clone Technique)^revealed
2. Kawarimi no Jutsu (Body Replacement Technique)^used
3. Gouryuuka no Jutsu (Great Dragon Fire Technique)^used
4. ____^used\hidden

[Jae]

I expected nothing else from Kouketsu after hearing his reply, which brought a smirk to my face that insisted his remark had struck a nerve. Son of a bitch, I mentally cut as I became overtaken by the boisterous conjuration from behind me. In that instant I felt my jaw clinch in angst as the broader image of what had occurred began to reveal itself. I'd been a fool to believe Kouketsu would have left himself so vulnerable. That is, it would have been irreparably irresponsible to bring myself to battle believing my closest rival was not just as prepared as I was.

Luckily for me, I was not one to glance over trivial details as I'd come to realize that the foundation of any creation lay in it's most basic building blocks. In the Uchiha's case, he seemed to find strength in using minor insignifiances to offer him large advantages in battle. This was probably due to the clarity of detail his genetically mutated eye afforded him, an obstacle I'd yet to find an effective way to overcome. It's presence was tolerable at the moment, but it would eventually become more than a nuisance if I didn't deal with it soon.

I didn't have time to witness what had actually transpired behind me but, judging from the overtaking rumble that shook the structures around me, whose integrity was questionable to begin with, I reacted as if I'd anticipated an attack of large magnitude was hurled in my direction. With little to work with in the realm of mobility, given I was sandwiched between the apparent Kouketsu and my own clones, I did what'd been beaten in my head since I was a boy by utilizing my surroundings to neutralize my threat.

I instinctively recalled my own worldly doubles, who stood as the only front separating me from the unregistered assail. They were generally only suitable for distraction and reconnaissance but their usefulness, to me, had grown over time under the tutelage of my now deceased uncle who lived as a legend throughout Kusagakure. Specializing in terramancy had it's perks, defense being one of them, and being elected the Earth Kingdom's First Earth Shadow after the Great Ninja War delegated me the heir to some of the most powerful Earth arts in existence.

The mere notion of enacting one of these familiar techniques set all of my dopplegangers to work, which occurred during the initial shock I'd endured after hearing and feeling the surprising blast. All of my clones' chakra had been stimulated sometime earlier which left them with little to do but complete the initiating ritual, a simple kneel that allowed their palms to contact the ground they stood on ^a.

Had he remained still, what arose would have set Kouketsu's emotions under fire as it too was a reminder of who he was outside of his elaborate scheme. The moment each of my clone's hands grazed the ground did a pair of six foot high statues emerge from the soil below, their likenesses modeled to resemble large, grotesque black bears. There were eight in total that stood beside one another in two by two block formation, which would significantly crowd the distance between my clones and the Uchiha. Their portly frames covered about 4 meters horizontally and, with two in front and in back, would prove more than enough to protect not only me but my doubles as well.

While all of this occurred, I continued to rob the Kage Bunshin of whatever sustenance it had to provide.¹ Having been doing this for over six seconds, it didn't surprise me when it finally burst into a plum of smoke (barely after Kouketsu launched his attack), which provided me a clear path of escape straight ahead. Unfortunately, whether or not Kouketsu would be affected by my directly intercepting his attack meant little if he'd succeeded in causing the surrounding terrain to collapse on top of me. This forced me to bolt down the open avenue ahead of me with no knowledge of my action's outcome, but I did so while zig zagging from each opposing wall in order to gradually ascend during my escape.

Once free from the alley way's confines, I found a point atop another delapidated building and faced about to observe the wreckage . A blanket of dust too thick to see through had arisen while the makeshift valley collapsed in on itself. During my haste I'd neglected to call my clones to follow me, leaving them to perish beneath the falling debris. I didn't mind. It only took repeating the same simple routine to conjure them forth at my side once more ², afterwhich they and I began to circumambulate the wrecked alley while falling into formation. Two of them each took my fore and back with the front runners preparing their own hand seals yet again^b.

Given we were on opposing sides of the wrecking I doubted Kouketsu saw any of my preparations but it bothered me that I'd let him slip away for even that brief moment. Who knew what he'd have in store once I finally reached him.

SPOILER: Click to show

Chakra Kyuuin no Jutsu (Chakra Absorption Technique)¹;
Deido Bunshin (Mud Body Double).²;

SPOILER: Click to show

Sōken Gūzou no Jutsu (Art of Statue Creation)^a;
_________^b;

[King]

Indeed, Ue’s little demonstration prior to the alley collapsing had brought back memories. Not that their brief conversation hadn’t, but seeing the bear statues had done more to jog his memory than anything else could have. In fact, he almost hesitated; again he found himself picturing the cold, damp cave walls that seemed to be pressing down on him, its weight straining his sanity each second he stay buried in the makeshift tomb. Days and weeks flashed before his eyes in an instant; it was tha tale of two star-crossed warriors, destined to conflict.

It was so strange, though.

Kouketsu felt as though he was outside his body – nothing more than a wayward spirit – as he watched his history unfold, yet again, before his very eyes. Why? Why did this man stir his consciousness so? It was a mystery, a puzzle that not even the most profound clarity could hope of unraveling. Perhaps the great divine was mocking the self-righteous bastard that pictured himself a martyr? Maybe they found it humorous that no matter how hard he tried to detach himself from his humanity in order to truly fulfill his purpose, there was always a cord – no matter how fine or minuscule the sliver - that Ue could strike to remind him of his own fragility?

Let them laugh, finally decided while cutting through the cloud of dust and debris. His fantasy world of nostalgia was hastily burned away, replaced by the disheveled crust of Bakudon Gai’s ravaged streets and a landscape of toppled buildings and stacks of smoldering bodies. The horrendous stench, and the flickering lights of dancing flames, bolstered the Uchiha’s dampened resolve. He wouldn’t let his brother, no matter how much he loved him, rob him of this; there wasn’t anything else for him but this!

Any preparations prior to the events that transpired then, after a fleeting set of seals as Ue and his entourage of mud clones breached the dying veil of smog, were all but irrelevant. Kouketsu’s Sharingan flared as his chakra violently erupted into a fountain of power, so overwhelming that it was nearly visible. Entire pieces of rubble were shattered to dust beneath the pressure radiating from his armored body, which seemed as though it could barely managed to stay stuck to the earth.

If Ue dared make eye contact, he would see that look – the feral savagery he’d seen all those years ago – burning relentlessly. Something inside of Kouketsu snapped, causing him to lose focus. Not in your traditional sense, either; Kouketsu had, for so long, shackled his true abilities for the sake of those close to him. But now, confronted by the only person he’d even embraced with all his heart, he didn’t care.

He didn’t care the war was lost.

He didn’t care if his friends or family died.

He didn’t care if he, himself, perished.

Suddenly, consumed with by an uncontrollable rage, Kouketsu screamed: “I WON’T LET YOU, UEKYUCHI!!!” Slamming his hand against the earth beneath him, the ground trembled as a intricate seal unfurled from his palm, circumventing the Uchiha entirely¹. And then—

BOOM! The explosion that followed carried not with it fire, but smoke that flooded the burning streets of Bakudon Gai like a winding river; buildings buckled and collapsed near and far, before being swept away by the howling winds of mount Youbin. It was a sensation that Ue would have remembered all too vividly, though his horror would have been solidified by the deafening roar that followed.

There, merely several meters before Ue, stood the mighty Namyeol in all his savage yet majestic glory. The king of bears easily towered over the highest point in the city, and was so massive he could be identified from miles away. His bellowing war cry dissipated the haze of smoke that had still lingered in the vicinity, allowing for any that were brave enough to actually look to bask in the warmth and radiance of a creature that was, quite honestly, a god.

Kouketsu stood upon the bear’s crown, his eyes illuminated among the darkness. He’d kill them all if he had to – every last one of these people that had turned his own brother against him.

Forgiveness would never be found.

SPOILER: Click to show

1. Kuchiyose no Jutsu (Summoning Technique (s) ^Namyeol

[Jae]

As my fleet and I carried around what remained of the alley, in hopes of discovering the Uchiha as quickly as possible, I knew it was important to remain cautious.. but it never occurred to me that I would find myself allusively prostrated before an entity of such caliber. It was like floating through a memory, one that I'd purposefully chose to overshadow with new experiences. Clearly the past hadn't forgotten me and Kouketsu was walking proof. Reality gripped me harshly when an astounding gale force wind came careening in my direction the moment I'd spotted the Uchiha. My only indication of it's forming had been an enraged cry in that filled the distance between us.

Had instinct not told me to prepare for the worst, I may not have acted as quickly as I did.¹ Unfortunately, in the case of my new clones, the encroaching rush sent them billowing backward in my wake while I stood firm. A preternatural rumble sent all around me into a momentary frenzy, one whose origins I'd only confirm after the defeaning roar of a colossal figure silenced my doubt. Ahead of me stood a piece of myself that I'd thought would never see the light of day.

"Namyeol," I spoke aloud, though I imagined my interjection be smothered by the ambient destruction surrounding me. To imagine the lengths Kouketsu was willing to go to ensure his plan was successful, for a moment, made me reconsider if my cause was any more just than his. To see all that he'd set in motion while I did nothing but fumble about concealing my identity was enough to make me take an objective glimpse at myself—
and what I saw didn't impress me.

I saw a betrayer; of his best friend and of his own country.

I saw a coward; whose use of subterfuge cleverly hid the fact that he was envious of his own best friend.

But most of all, I saw an abdicater who couldn't even complete his defection to the cause he deemed just.

What was the worth of a self-righteous wretch? What reason did God have to spare me in place of anyone else who died in the name of national sovereingty or heretic cleansing? I'd never taken into account how comforting the enveloping chaos was but in that brief moment of clarity, I remembered things as Kouketsu and I dreamed back in those days at Mount Youbin. I'd come to realize that this was where I belonged, headlong in the bust of conflict, striking down my oppressor.

We thought we knew the implications of our duties but I sincerely believe neither of us expected fate to deal us the hand we were currently being forced to play. These were the events we conspired of but they were not at all what I had envisioned. I could only snicker in amazement of it all. Had Kouketsu been watching he'd probably presumed I'd gone mad with fear but, truthfully, it was all just too ironic for me to cope with any longer. My leaning away from reticence could be seen in my expression, which donned a swagger only a select group of people had seen me take on. Uchiha Kouketsu was one of them.

My nonchalant expression held a sinister tinge that prevaded my speech as well. As I shifted through hand signatures of my own, I cooed my sentiments before raising my thumb to my own mouth.


"If this is how it was intended to be, I won't deny you your fate any longer, Kouketsu, " I hummed, bringing the finger to my face before taking a painful bite onto it's pad. I tore at the flesh which allowed my own blood to fall to the ground below. As the ritual decreed, it was how my partner identified the requestor. Noting the circumstances, I was sure my distant companion would join me on the battle field. After all, he was to Namyeol what I was to Kouketsu.

Then, without a moments notice, I dropped my hands to the deck which caused an outreaching pattern of various symbols to begin spreading around where I'd touched. I watched anxiously as they fashioned themselves into the contract I'd remembered from so far back, and just as I'd began to appreciate the nostalgia did an erupting force project itself throughout the destitute streets of Bakudon Gai. What foundation the structures surrounding me did have would be usurped and converted into the welcome mat of self-proclaimed "King of Beasts", a colossal figure whose crown I'd use as a platform.

So soon would he let out an envigorating roar that left me just as inspired as Kouketsu. Given his effusive demeanor, Bukram took no time to let his feelings be known.

"Well, well, well, if it isn't my shit stick of an older brother."

SPOILER: Click to show

Domu (Earth Spear Essence) [B-Rank].¹;
Kuchiyose no Jutsu (Summoning Technique)^Bukram;

[King]

Neither Namyeol or Kouketsu were surprised by Ue's rather appropriate response to the sun king's arrival. In fact, it was fairly predictable. When two titans clashed, there wasn't a shred of their power that was held back; all of their cards were put on the table, and their lives found their way to the wager lines. There were some whom would dare say that the Uchiha's assault on the Chuunin Exams was an action of statement; that he was simply trying to make a point. None of them could fathom how wrong they were. Had the leaders of the villages attended the exams as he'd hoped, they would've been slaughtered and the war would've began and came to an abrupt end in a single day.

Kouketsu wished for this to be as fast as possible, and would spare no quarter when it came to unleashing the full ferocity of his power. He would tear this world apart if he had to.

"I should have known," the Sun King growled, though his booming voice remained deafening. "I could smell your stink all over that little one, Bukram."

Still, the massive creature couldn't help but admire the potency these two men had shown. By default, it shouldn't have even been possible for the two brothers to even be present on the same land. Their father's seal, which hadn't lost as flicker of its potency in the thousand years that followed its creation, was set in place to ensure that. Even the brothers themselves had tried, for years, to break the barrier the Ancient, their father, had created so that they could finish their life-long struggle against each other. They had failed miserably, yet here they stood.

Though he highly doubted he need say it, Namyeol took it upon himself to state the obvious. "They've broken the seal."

This was an opportunity that neither Kouketsu nor Namyeol intended to let go to waste, and in a simple motion the enormous bear pushed himself onto his hind legs. Towering even higher than before, assuming a more formidable position, his deep orange and silver armor glistened against the dying fires beneath him and his true pride, the sun, above him. But this wasn't the only change that occurred, and had Bukram even glimpsed at his brother's eyes it would have become rather obvious¹.

Willingly succumbing to his Uchiha counterpart's jutsu, the bear's ebony eyes hastily became a much larger version of the fully evolved Sharingan that Kouketsu, himself, brandished so expertly. Clearly, the opposing pair would have a rather up-hill struggle from here on out, which began with a charge.

Those that had never seen Namyeol move before would have certainly been caught off guard by the enormous creature's unnatural speed, and the distance that might have been enormous to a man - which was nothing but a step or so to these two godlike entities - vanished in a fraction of a second. A gargantuan paw curled into an iron fist, and the Sun King very brazenly attempted to test his theory on the subject of the barrier by seeking to slam the aforementioned meteor-like fist clean into his sibling's chin.

Whether the assault proved fruitful was irrelevant, as the duo had expected an effective counter. However, the sheer force behind the assault would've provided Kouketsu with the forward momentum he needed to launch himself clean across whatever expanse might've still existed as the brothers of legends collided, barreling with an inhuman velocity toward his own flesh and blood. Though Ue very well may not have heard him, he spoke into the maelstrom of chaos and power. "I won't let you take this way from me!"

SPOILER: Click to show

1. Sharingan Hypnosis^{subject; namyeol}

[Jae]

Namyeol's words seemed to infuriate Bukram, who anxiously shuddered at the sight of his fated rival. Though he generally chose to present himself as collected and poised in combative situations, this was clearly a different case as evidenced by his almost savage demeanor. Whether it was clear or not on the other side, the Royal Moon's breathing had increased considerably after his brother spoke and each word seemingly tightened the grip his rage held on him.

He salivated as a mad beast would while his sibling spoke of the barrier that once kept them from ripping each other apart, eventually allowing his overbearing contempt to ring forth in a profuse stream of swears and insults. "YOU MOTHERFUCKER!~ WAIT 'TIL I GET AHOLD OF YOU, I'M GONNA RIP YOUR HEAD OFF AND USE IT CARRY MY CUM RAG," he exclaimed in a sentence that had become oversaturated with feral roars as he went on.

But when Namyeol stood from his quadruped pose to assume his full height, standing somewhat taller than Bukram himself, the flow of obscenities came to a bewildering halt. It was then that I noticed what he'd noticed; my counterpart's Sharingan welcomingly shone to all who even attempted to look the Sun King in the face. I unwittingly found myself captivated by the lustre of those devilish extensions, but took haste to break my line of vision with them.

And just as soon as I had so came a resounding charge from ahead. It would have been terrifying had I not been so eveloped in the aura of anarchy enshrouding the city. For once in a long time, I felt as though I had the power to shape the world. I felt I had the power to overlook the creeds of livelihood. I felt like a god.

There was no need to command Bukram to head off his brother's blitz, he did so instinctively which sent us both accelerating through the center of Bakudon Gai, crushing anything that stood between us and them. Passionate contempt surged through my entire being while I stood comfortably atop the Royal Moon's head. Kouketsu's image drew nearer with each step they took and so did my lust to utterly eradicate any trace of his existence from the face of the planet. His legacy, his eye, and even his summon; they were all corrupted and deserved a proper cleansing.

Where Kouketsu had become visibly enraged, I remained artfully stable aside from a lunatic grin I habitually wore when I was genuinely pissed off. And as he barreled toward me at break neck speed, I stood in preparation for the impact of his flying charge ^1.

"Then by all means, Kouketsu, try and stop me!"

SPOILER: Click to show

Domu (Earth Spear Essence) [B-Rank].1;

[King]

My rose, my roar.

The two titans clashing at the heart of Bakudon Gai provided more than a just a glimpse at the power of true shinobi. It was a testament to the fact that what Kouketsu was doing had to be done, and that peace - no matter how brief - could never be obtained so long as men of these capabilities ruled the world. Where Ue had changed his demeanor by a considerable degree, for whatever reason, Kouketsu remained true to his goal and beliefs. Even if his piety was rounded on some warped madness that none other than himself could understand, he was highly religious. This was more so a holy crusade than anything.

Cutting through the air like a thrown kunai, the armored Uchiha could see his opponent quite clearly, and all that he brandished in an attempt to thwart his attempt to settle this world. Rather than retort to Ue's remark, Kouketsu preferred to let his actions speak for him. This little contest of siblings was over.

As I've said, the conflict between the Royal Moon and Sun King served a great deal of functions outside of a simple display of power. Besides being tha definition of power, it was the perfect distraction for the agile and cunning shadow clone that had come to life prior to Kouketsu exiting the obscuring plume of smoke from the collapsing alley. Navigating the beast's figure was almost effortless despite his rapid movements, and by the same manner that the two shinobi kept themselves planted on their summon's crowns (chakra at the feet) he would find each step unwavering.

Hearing the armored bunshin approaching was highly unlikely, as the thundering beasts and their administrations were deafening, to say the least. Likewise, Kouketsu showed no sign of victory as he approached, catching a glimpse of his carbon copy practically appearing behind Ue.

Coming to a halt, two powerful arms would seamlessly scoop beneath the Kikkawa's arms, jerking upward with a force easily able to dislocate a normal man's appendages and locking behind his head, while the heel of his right foot would simultaneously drive into the back of Ue's left knee. The combination of the full-nelson and sudden drop would've been all it took to force the earth spear from Ue's grasp, sending it plummeting off the Royal Moon's skull. It would've been only a second later that the true Kouketsu descended the pair, yet his intentions weren't what any of you might have thought.

With a thunderous punch, he'd drive his right hand deep into Ue's stomach, carrying with it all the momentum of his previous leap-and-short-run. Surely, the force would've stolen the breath from his captive brother, perhaps even causing him to shut his eyes in pain while he gasped for air. But Kouketsu didn't intend to let this imposter have control of his beloved sibling's body any longer - he would free him from the chains mortality had used to shackle his mind and soul.

"I won't let you take this away from yourself, Uekyuchi."

Gloved hands latched onto either side of Ue's face, thumbs forcing his eyelids open should they be closed. He would force his brother to look deep into his Sharingan, which would begin to swirl until their tomoe were nothing more than a stirring line against the red. For all the years that he couldn't properly convey what he sought, he would finally transmit his ideals in full. Ue would receive a very deep, and thorough glimpse of the future - the world that Kouketsu was creating, and what would come of it.

Their souls, which may very well have been a single entity at one point in time, would once again reconnect. The two star-crossed siblings would, at least, be complete.

Time slowed, and seconds became days; minutes became months; months became years. And then, everything eventually just stopped. The world around them vanished, being reduced to nothing more than an emptiness that spanned on for all eternity. Kouketsu intended to make sure the hypnosis was complete before releasing his hold, as he couldn't afford to continue a fight in this condition. Both mentally and physically, mind you.

The amount of concentration it would've taken to properly executed what he intended to do was unspeakable, yet well worth it in the end. And when Kouketsu finally released his grasp from Ue's face, letting his hang almost lifelessly in the raging winds, he would find his vigor renewed. He would once again be himself.

SPOILER: Click to show

1. Sharngan: Higi^{subject; Ue}