detours & damsels. [o]

[Jun]

OOC ~ Yeah, it's open but Vegapunk gets first post >=/

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Enter.

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Abandoned. . .

Alas, it seemed I'd remain bitter and alone until my final breath. Kota-san had gone AWOL following our brief battle with the mysterious onyx mane. Only in his absence had I finally come to terms with how fond I had grown of him. As I sat in darkness my mind reeled over the past 48 hours ~ where had he slipped off to? And more importantly, was he alright?

'Of course he is. . .he's got talent after all.'

[/i]

I tried valiantly to put him out of my mind, to forget ever meeting the handsome devil in Tsuchi no Kuni. Still, I thought we'd go far together ~ to become legends and give rise to the nuke-nin populace. However, as I sat with my head hung low, the patter of rain overhead soon drowned out all thoughts. Needless to say it was a bumpy ride; I sat in transit while tamed horses pulled wooden wheels along an uneven path of mud. A dark cloak surrounded my darling frame, as it did well in keeping the elements at bay. In addition, the signature blue mask I kept rested idly upon tufts of short, raven hair. From a tiny opening I gained a glimpse of the outside world; namely the entire entourage of merchants I was traveling with. It was a small caravan, composed of no more than 40 souls, but they were effective in keeping me in hiding, nonetheless.

Under their consent, I'd managed to maintain cover enough to gain what I hoped would be safe passage into Kumogakure. They themselves were headed there, and if Senju-san was still seeking out the hidden village like he had claimed in the recent past, we'd likely have the chance to cross paths again. In the passing moments, a forced arm opened the door of a small, mobile cabin, which in turn revealed the full extent of the weather brewing outdoors. Torrents of rain fell from endless grey heavens, along with winds zealous enough to send the trees bordering our party on either side swaying in rhythm. A branch flew over top my roof and while it did I took notice in how frosty the air surrounding us was becoming. In enough time even the vendors could feel it ~ a thick fog began to envelop the entire caravan. So dense one could barely see the person right beside them; as expected this brought hysteria amongst the masses. In the coming seconds all I'd hear was panic, then I stepped out and gazed 15 meters down the line, where the mist was barely starting to thin.

In this spot I sighted only two people, a shinobi and a female. The arrival of the swordsman brought along the realization that the mist was none other than potent Ninjutsu. He stood behind the girl, holding her in place with a kodachi poised at her delicate throat. It was a shame really, she had to be no older than 17 at the most.

"I-I'm gonna need all the money your caravan is carrying, as well as a w-weeks worth of food. . .or, or else the girl dies!"

He sounded skittish, as if he didn't want to go along with it but madness drove him to do so. Such was the reality of life ~ it didn't take long for everyone around to grasp the severity of the situation at hand. Cries louder than any heard before caught my ears; presumably the girl's mother who had only her husband to comfort her with his embrace. And while the hostage holder continued to wait for his ransom I withdrew the slashed Iwagakure headband from its appropriate pouch below the trusty black tanto on my spine. I was missing, and as such had no obligation to help the poor lass. It was funny, these people needed protecting, but where were their heroes when they needed them most? I gave only a devilish smirk before retreating back into the confines of a dry cabin.

All the while heavy rain continued to fall.







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[vegapunk]

SPOILER: Click to show

Sorry! last few weeks have been hectic - but I am back to a normal schedule so lets do this!

He would slip out of the village undetected. A daring feat some may jokingly say for a ninja, but it was one that seemed to become increasingly difficult for Eiichiro. He was constantly under protection and needed for the countless commands that one of the five largest villages in the world demanded. However in his many years as a shinobi, coupled with his time in the hunter squad, he had gained the ability to seamlessly blend in and out of his surroundings - if he wanted, he could become essentially invisible at any moment. It was these timeless skills that would allow him to venture from his office without the slightest of notice, asking to not be disturbed by anyone, this would set the beginnings of a venture which was long overdue.

Concealed by a bulky hooded rain-cover his exterior would become essentially a dark figure, one of many which roamed the lands. The weather, like it always was around this time of year, was atrociously wet with the sky enveloped with a purple hue of clouds. This weather served him a great purpose allowing an even more obscure presence. Between the wind, rain, thunderous claps and dancing light which the atmosphere presented he would become unnoticed - just another thing in a place of many things. Out of the corners of the hooded-robe his golden locks were cautiously tucked away, while his signature purple-lens sunglasses sat neatly on his face - masking his amber pooled eyes.

Walking with nonchalant gate in his step his feet would travel down a path he had traveled many times before. He knew the surrounding landscape like the back of his hand, and wouldn't anyone if they had clocked up the hours he had with surveillance and patrol missions around these lands. Head bowed low and arms covered at his front this unspoiled figure would continuously move to its chosen landscape; faultless and undaunted. However, his tranquil venture which allowed him to reflect and think was interrupted by screams and panic in the distance ahead. Supernatural in its performance; the furious wind and rain which the weather brought couldn't even mask its terror.

It seemed that the incident would mark itself right between where he was heading, and where he wanted to go. Hmmph, seems as though I should check it out. I mean, even though I don't think it is, some of these people could be some of my own.., the though echoing through his head as he gained ground towards the panic. Moving towards the lining of trees and forest to the left he would move with precision and elegance - his long robe concealing every minute movement he made. Up ahead, he would notice a caravan group, and a strange mist. Naturally suspicious, he would continue to move closer however still in a veil of vegetation and trees. Underneath his robe he would tightly grip a scroll which was nestled protectively between his hands.

He couldn't afford anything to happen to this scroll..

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[Jun]

A hardened face in the crowd observed the swordsman's actions from beyond world weary eyes. His hands were trembling; a ninja was never supposed to leave their back open and yet here one was threatening a young girls life to save his own ~ cowardice. Still, his specimen's back was exposed, the merchant knew he'd be just as much of a low-life if he didn't jump on the chance to save her. All his life he'd been labeled average, but indeed it was a new era now. Those same finicky arms lifted a hefty jar with as much finesse as he could muster. Silently the male approached his target from behind ~ this wasn't violence, the shinobi was only getting what he deserved; if he could even be called a shinobi, no he was below that, he was a scumbag. But as the vase came crashing down the finely tuned senses of the missing Kiri nin caught on. An even swifter shove of the girl to the mud and pivot of the feet brought all hopes of a naive rescue to the abyss. His kodachi put a permanent, crimson scar across a foolish souls chest and sent him too to the floor. Within the mist an example was set and more screams soon erupted around the brunette girl.

"You think I'm fucking playing games!? I-I haven't had a good meal in days. . .you've all got 5 minutes to round up my
ransom or I'll kill her where she stands!"

Time was running out for her.

The entire time I had remained quiet, tuned in to the world around me. It came with moderate difficulty considering all of the rain and terror but I managed to sense a glimpse of a persona with the chakra capacity of a demon. Initially I thought it to be Kota-san, though that was sensless dreaming, this body I felt was new to me altogether. Inside the dark cubicle I marked this presense to be roughly 19 meters from my own position. Afterward I went back to listening in on the sounds just outside, waiting for him to intervene. The long haired lass was forced back to her feet and placed back under the watch of a tainted kodachi before any other followers could decide they wanted to pretend they had courage. And though under the effects of heavy blood loss the tragic hero of a man still somehow drew breath.

Everyone stepped back and a few, wealthier merchants went as far as to slip inside and withdraw their currency. Meanwhile the casualty was moved to safety and tended to, strips of cloth were soon applied to control the bleeding. I finally decided to make a move but not with the intent of saving a beauty's life. I cracked the cabin door then slipped back outside ~ a true harbringer of stealth. My dark blue cloak rejected the wet and once my petite figure circled around back of my carriage I assumed I wouldn't be found. 19 meters. . .with that distance I could plot out his demise. However I wouldn't, at least not until he revealed his face. As for my own face it went back into hiding ~ shrouded underneath a ghost with ties to a past I'd been ashamed of my whole life. Whoever was coming for us, no me, was in for one hell of a fight if he made the wrong decision.

Life or death, that lifestyle was nothing new.

SPOILER: Click to show

Kagura Shingan (Kagura Mind's Eye)
Rank: D, C, B, A, S
Type: Supplementary / Sensory Ninjutsu
Range: 0 - 50 meters
Handseals: Yes [1]
Chakra: Very Low - Very High
Special: Determines the range at which they can detect chakra, whether it comes from person, animal or even object, By closing their eyes and forming a simple seal, the world of chakra around the user becomes unveiled. Upon learing the 'S' ranked version, the user will no longer have to close their eyes nor form handseals to activate. Highest rank known also determines detection time, as well as the amount of chakra-related masteries needed in order for that level of Kagura to be reached. Keep in mind chakra masteries do not need to be from the same group; as long as it has chakra, any form of ninjutsu mastery (from releases to clan jutsu) will do.
D: Full Turn detection delay // 1 Mastery
C: 3/4 th of a Turn // 2 Masteries
B: Half a Turn // 3 Masteries
A: 1/4 th of a Turn // 4 Masteries
S: Near-Instant! // 5 Masteries

Description: Kagura Shingan is an advanced Sensory Ninjutsu technique used by all sensors, and serves as the root to the entire sensory tree. After a series of handseals, the sensor closes their eyes and uses their inate ability to detect chakra in order to determine the location of their opponent by the faintest of chakra trails, as well as discerning the size of an approaching unseen force, and even their chakra capacity.
Domain: Sensors.

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[vegapunk]

Gahh...this is getting out of hand.

With that thought of concern, beneath his hooded robe, he would begin to form seals at a blinding speed. It was true, the situation was getting out of hand. Perhaps if he was a good robber, a thief who stayed calm and collected while he acted out his trade Eiichiro would show mercy. But to be frank, he was getting on the mans nerves. In the past Eiichiro would have walked past this situation without flinching, his days as a Hunter-nin petrifying his emotions to a stone-cold level. But now, as he was a kage, a man who held the lives of thousands in his hands - a fleeting feeling of not only concern but responsibility filled his system. Had becoming Raikage made him soft? no, he was now truly understanding more than duty and orders from his superiors. Now that he was the superior, his duty and orders came from him, and only him. A scary thought indeed..

As his seals stopped, he would pull a single kunai from within his pouch nearly simultaneously, the workings of a ninja becoming more than second-nature to the golden-haired man. Directly in front of him a purple jade mirror would form out of nothing, crystallized out of the air in front of him. This wouldn't be the only mirror that formed in the vicinity however; as behind the bandit another mirror composed exactly the same would appear. Gripping the kunai in his hand he would walk through the mirror, his presence from his previous position vanishing, as he instantly appeared through the mirror which he created behind the man who held the young girl as a hostage. Melding out from the crystaline mirror he would only need to walk one to two step before he reached his target. His presence would be completely masked; between the hysteria of screaming and panic, the pounding rain, and his general stealth he would appear behind the man completely unnoticed by him.

Within a moment Eiichiro would brush his arms up from his hood - creating, if only for a moment, a theatrical scene as the crystal mirrors began to fade into thin air. With the razor-sharp edge of his kunai now directed at the thieves throat, the man gasped completely taken aback, a mixture of terror and fright. Near-instantly, the robber would let the girl go, who, in panic would run over to what Eiichiro presumed to be her parents - crying and collapsing in their arms. A beautiful and powerful scene none-the-less but Eiichiro was in no mood to bring out a packet of tissues. Clutching the kunai with a firm grip it would idle only a whisker away from the mans throat, who was now pleading for his life - sweating outrageously and having a miniature meltdown of his own. Agh, this guy is gross - I don't want his sweat on my clothes Eiichiro thought to himself. Within a moment he would rip the kunai across slashing the throat of the assailant instantly as he fell forward, choking for a few seconds in his blood before dying. Bending down he would wipe his kunai clean on the back of the mans shirt before putting back into his pouch.

"Don't worry, I am not here to hurt any of you. Your cartel should be more careful on these roads, they are filled with hungry robbers and dirty rapists. Yuck!"

SPOILER: Click to show

* x1 Kunai
* Suisho Kyou (Jade Crystal Mirror) x2 (Low cost)

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[Jun]

Through a set of hazel eyes that grew dimmer with each passing second the merchant noticed what he labeled a miracle. A man appeared, his mane amber and his hand clutching a metallic edge ~ through some sort of gemstone Ninjutsu the girl was saved and the enemy slain; all he knew was that their hero had the speed of a shooting star. Afterward darkness flooded his oculi and it was then he was rendered unconscious.

'I swear, if there's anyway I can repay you honorable shinobi, you only need ask!'

[/right]

I overheard the gratitude of flock, not only that but I watched with my own eyes the act of courage. Though the sheet of mist drifting over the caravan was impeding I remained hawk-like, the fading violet jewels made it apparent that this was no ordinary ninja I was crossing paths with. An uneasy feeling ran down my spine; just what was that portal he stepped through composed of? By then I'd converged toward the heart of the action, crouched nearby at roughly 10 meters. The battle was already over, if it could even be called that, his method of approach had led to one of the most silent assassinations I'd ever witnessed; nothing short of spectacular. Maybe I would've applauded, but I was far too busy closing the gap between us even further until he was visible from behind the backs of a few onlookers. Upon closer inspection I paused ~ there was a lot of blood. To my side I caught glimpse of a nomad with a deep, diagonal gash across his torso. The fool of a man was being carried away, having lost enough of his owns life essence as it was.

"Don't worry, I am not here to hurt any of you. Your cartel should be more careful on these roads, they are filled with hungry robbers and dirty rapists. Yuck!"

[/right]

Admirable words from a man with an unfortgettable head of hair. Goldie. I'd give him that moniker until I learned his true name, something of which I aspired to accomplish within the next few minutes. Through cracks left in a relieved crowd I slipped by, eventually gaining a front row view of the aftermath. An unloved soul lay face down in a spot he likely never imaged himself. Lifeless, saturated in his own blood ~ an untimely end for someone so hellbent on threatening the innocent. He received no remorse as I stepped forth, midnight cloak swaying against the brisk current; it seemed the fog was finally starting to lift from an otherwise tense pathway. "Very Impressive," I chimed, the scent of death still heavy in the air. "I take it you hail from Kumogakure?" I held no hostility in my stride while I advanced, though the kunai concealed slyly within the recesses of a dark coat was taken into account. It was a mere precaution, if anything. "Tell me Goldie, do you have a name? I'm Jun, by the way." He may have been intimdated by the prospect of a masked persona walking toward him but I swiftly removed that worry by sliding the disguise to the top of my head. Besides, I figured my voice would give away my gender long before my face did. His own was attractive, I wouldn't lie, but I already had a special someone in my life. By the end of my brief introduction I was less than 10 feet away, an ocean gaze left awe-struck by how talented the male before me was.

His prescene alone brought along unexplainable feelings.
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[vegapunk]

It would all seem like a blur to them as Eiichiro rose from the body of the fallen bandit. Kunai now locked away in his pouch he would once again casually rest his hands within the shadows of his long sleeves. As he thought, the man was no match for his prowess; the sheer look on his face before dying alluded to his true fear and weakness, and he had paid the ultimate price. Pushing from the strength of his knees he would rise from his previously crouched position, the sound of hysteria and panic subsiding, now, replaced with the sounds of what could have been and of gratitude towards Eiichiro. As they came forward in flocks to offer their thanks he would merely raise a single hand from his sleeve and usher them off. There was no need for the extra attention, and he didn't want it. What was done was done and these travelers now had the safe passage they desired.

Still, they would do as Eiichiro said, slowly backing off as he ushered them to carry on - still with apathetic grins across their faces. It seems they harbor fear for me still....that is good, they will need that awareness on this road he thought to himself as his body straightened out. As the groups of people moved about between the cartel in their groups once again, Eiichiro would begin to turn around to travel his road once more, still with that scroll in his possession. Rain pounding from the heavens above, he would take his hood off of his head, allowing his golden locks to meet the incoming moisture. Hurling winds would try pull his hair away from its placement, but would only succeed at rattling the locks to his sides and neck. However, before he willed himself to move there was the sound of another voice, this time, that of a girl. Intrigued, he would stop as the voice was directed at him. Who could this girl be?

She would firstly compliment the shinobi before asking if he was indeed from Kumogakure. Through his tinted sunglasses he would look upon the girl that appeared in front of him. Similarly dressed, she wore a midnight colored coat shielding her from the weather. Its nature was both mysterious and conspicuous, much like the one he wore, signalling him to think she was a kunoichi. He would pause as she began to speak once again, calling him goldie as she asked for his name while continuing to move ever closer to him. Goldie? he thought for a second, before laying eyes on the girl. She proceeded to take off her mask revealing what Eiichiro first noticed - her ocean blue eyes. A pretty wee thing, she would be not much younger than Eiichiro, however smaller, and obviously not afraid to confront a kunai-wielding stranger. He would flick his hair in the rain as the transparent water ran down either-side of his face. He would begin to speak to the girl, biting his bottom lip as a teasing and playful tone left his lips.

"Well aren't we forward? My name is Eiichiro, and yours Jun it seems. What is a pretty girl like yourself hanging round these parts for? and yes, I know Kaminari no Kuni like the back of my hand. These woodlands and mountains are but second nature to me."

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[Jun]

"What is a pretty girl like yourself hanging round these parts for?"

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Casual in word and action. He gave a nonchalant brush through sunny strands of hair while rain continued its steady descent. I made a quick glimpse up yonder; the clouds were ashen, the sun non-existent. "Eiichiro."[/i] I'd whisper, more so to myself than anything. He was a tall, lean fellow with square rimmed glasses and a laid-back aura around him. The entourage surrounding us never quit with their gossip; I overheard bizzare things but for now they were irrelevant. It appeared we were two people in a class of our own. "Is that so? I was hoping to gain entry into Kumogakure," I began, jacket damp from the influx of water droplets. And as flattered as I was by his kind words, it wouldn't show on my face. Truth be told, I'd grown quite accustomed to being called 'pretty'. More than that even, letters from secret admirers and grabs on the ass were all too common in the past. That aspect of being beautiful I hated ~ men had it easy.

"And if you're as familiar with these parts as you say, you wouldn't mind taking me there - would you?" My entire existence was a lie, it had been that way ever since I sank to the level of nuke-nin. I couldn't even be straight-forward with a complete stranger. What awaited me in Kumo? Nothing worthwhile; though infiltration led to knowledge and knowledge led to power. Perhaps that was what inspired me then. The thrill."There's something I wanted to ask your Kage." I added with a friendly tone. My arms fell loose at either side and as the mist fully subsided I observed his every move. Eiichiro seemed nice enough, however in the shinobi world one could never be too certain. Even the most subtle mistake could potentially lead to a sudden check-in in the afterlife. "I swear I'm not a threat to your home." Two arms went up slowly, open palms signaling that I had arrived with peaceful intentions. And just as suddenly. . .

'Suiton! Suiryuudan no Jutsu!'

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My eyes swelled with anticipation ~ another look to the sky revealed a grand coalesence of water headed directly for us, its head formed in the likeness of a dragon from folklore. With an aerial advantage the rest of its elongated body followed suit and made rampant, unpredictable twists. Soon the beast's maw opened - a few fleeting seconds later its mass came crashing down on us. "Goldie, move!" Was all I managed to utter before I flickered off to the left in a blur of motion. My small figure skidded to a halt 10 meters away, puddles splashing against black sandals. I checked for the source of the ambush, realizing that it'd come from behind Eiichiro not a moment too soon. Immediately a dominant hand went to grasp the hiltless tanto at my rear; I didn't draw it yet, but one could tell I was on edge. What the hell was going on? I'd dodged just in time, though a plentiful source of water was left in the dragons wake. Could the same be said for my acquaintance? Surely he was trained enough to avoid the attack despite how off guard we might have been. Members of the caravan scurried off and rightfully so ~ this was no place for the weak of heart. "You alright?" I called out, hoping to hear a reply in the next second. From the trees 12 meters away emerged two daunting pesonas; one smirking from the outcome of his Ninjutsu and the second, shorter male carrying twin tanto's on his back.

"Damned fool. I told Minori to hold off on the ambush until we arrived."

Said the broad chested man, his headband worn as a bandana to cover wavy, brown locks.

"Oh well. Might as well finish what he started." Joked the second, more youthful shinobi blessed with short, grey hair.[/right]

I winced; a trace of lightning streaked across the frontier.

SPOILER: Click to show

-shushin [1|7]

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[vegapunk]

SPOILER: Click to show

Sorry for the delay Jun! Looong weekend.

A funny one this girl is..

He thought to himself as the rain continued to pound down upon the two as they talked. Truth be told, from what he had gathered from the girl, he had taken a liking to her. Most people Eiichiro had met on the road recently had bothered him, but she was different. With cool green eyes he would look her over with another piercing glance; she was calm, collected, and seemed assured of what she wanted. Even here, in the rain, she had singled Eiichiro out questioning him about his homeland. Entry into Kumogakure..ask the kage something.. the words which fled her lips would instantly enter his mind. Obviously, he knew that she had no formal meeting with the kage, and he would be sure to keep his identity a mystery for now - but there was something mysteriously intriguing about her. However, within that flicker of a moment he had sensed something close. Signals flying through his body, he would hear the voice of Jun before he himself would react.

"Goldie, move!"

// pause//

Tch...

As a flush of frustration filtered through his body, he couldn't help but feel annoyed he'd have to make a fast movement. Within a blink of an eye Eiichiro would crouch, his knees now supporting his weight - but only for a moment. Grabbing the scruff of the body of the bandit, drawing power from his legs, he would twist the body over his own in the direction of the attack. Kawarimi!, and immediately he would disappear in a small cloud of smoke as the water came crashing down on his previous location. Now, a mere 5 meters to the left of the attack, the subsidiary water left from the attack would flood his ankles and the surrounding landscape. The suiton dragon had completely enveloped the deceased bandit, his body torn to a much greater extent than it previously was, the translucent water now mixed with crimson blood. Could these fools not realise who they were up against? surely from the way he had disposed of their friend they would have realised that today he mean't business. Anger mixed with a playful vengeance streaked across his face and voice - these bandits would soon find themselves on the wrong side of the Sandaime Raikage.

"Yeah I'm alright, you can come out. Sorry, but we will have to pick-up our conversation in just a minute or two - just need to dispose of these punks. Unless, that is, you would care to join me?



// Now turning his attention to the two bandits still speaking in the same tone, he would begin to form handseals, concealed beneath his jacket//

"Minori was it? What a shame - it seems as though your water lizard jutsu tore him up a little...or was it a dragon?..Anyway gentlemen, gentlemen, if it was a dragon you wanted to see you could have just asked."

It was as if his teeth had become sharper, his wit and words fluid with the toxicity of venom. How dare these two come and interrupt him while he and Jun were having a conversation. That Suiton Suiryuudan was weak. Typical bandits, these boys haven't got the chakra to keep up he thought to himself as he continued to weave his seals. It was true, the previous attack lacked power and control, the body of the bandit Minori still in tact - which shouldn't be the case after a direct hit of such an attack. They were just bandits though and while the valor of a battle and riled Eiichiro up, he knew to truly keep his composure and wits about him. He would never underestimate an enemy, but he had found that his estimations were usually correct. They were just thugs, and as he turned to see Jun, he would see if she had responded to his previous statement and would join him for the battle. But, within that moment, as the two thugs who now looked visibly pissed-off approached, Eiichiro moved in for the offensive - his seals complete. Here is a true dragon..

"Hashō Kōryū!"

SPOILER: Click to show

* 10 meters from Jun
* 9 meters from Bandits (moved 3 meters towards party)
* [1/6] Kamarimi

* Hashō Kōryū (Tearing Crystal Falling Dragon)
Rank: A
Type: Offensive / Ninjutsu / Shouton Kekkei Touta
Range: See special!
Handseals: Yes.
Chakra: High
Special: Size of dragon and crystal hide defense depends on the user's 'Crystallization Command' rank. Must maintain contact with dragon at all times when trying to use it in conjunction with other known Shoton jutsu. Each time retrained, one additional equally powerful dragon can be made, from the same source.
Description: Upon completing the secret seals, the user crystallizes a material within their crystallizing area, and then quickly uses their chakra to morph it into a dragon. Large, fast, dangerous, the beast can be used as a means to travel or even to attack a target, as its essence of crystal allows it to serve as a vector for any Shoton jutsu the user knows.
Domain: Shoton. Must know 'Crystallization Commandment' 'A'.

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[Jun]

"Unless, that is, you would care to join me?"

[/right]

I was beginning to like this Eiichiro fellow - well, not in that way at least. He had an appealing sense of humor about him, even during high stakes encounters on the battlefield. "Aha, I would like nothing more." A concise reply, after all our adversary's last attack had changed the forecast; the field became flooded, for countless gallons of water sailed over my shins as well.

'Hashō Kōryū!'

[/right]

And what a sight to behold. I'd been fortunate enough to witness something as theatrical as the crystalline hydra born from my partners own chakra reserves. Along with it came a sarcastic jibe in the direction of the Kirigakure pair, their eyes bloated with awe. Boy would I have hated to be on the receiving end of an offense as monumental as the one they were faced with. In any case, the pale, gray haired one had been sharp the entire time, his hands fluttering through an array of seals just before honey hair finished his own.

"Hmph. He spoke too soon...Hyugo, you might want to call in back up. We may be in over our heads with this one."

said Yori, his handseals now at their end.

"Right, i'm all over it."
[/right]

Donned in all black, he raised his slender arms rather than withdraw as one might have expected. Indeed, he held his ground, fuuton chakra coming into full fruition at the last possible second - the currents surrounding him grew tumultuous, his palms holding steady the transparent buffer before him. In enough time the sparkling dragon crashed heavily into his defense and sent purple shards and fragments of chakra showering every which way. Needless to say it put a strain on the youth who placed every last ounce of his strength into holding back the true serpent. His own sandals dug densely into the mud, the immense pressure of Eiichiro's Ninjutsu pushing him back a few feet. Still, he stayed put like a champ. By the end he was fatigued, panting, with hands nigh raw from the physical exertion. The return was well worth it however, for he'd sent the dragon flying right back toward us.

"Nicely done. Don't worry, I'll finish this as fast as I can."

To the rear, chiseled chin had bit his finger, drawing a few beads of blood. What came next was obvious - a grand act of summoning. Beyond the over-sized plume of smoke he'd birth came a mythical beast, a crab. It's shell was an admirable dark blue, its claws colossal. Hyugo stood atop of it while an cocky grin began to emerge from his mouth. One point of his finger and the beast came hurdling toward us - sideways, with pincers poised for action.

Unbelievable. I'd never seen anything so utterly terrifying in all my years as a kunoichi. A dominant claw came hammering down on us with force akin to a falling tree. My instincts took over as I moved to sidestep again after removing myself from the path of the rebounded crystal snake; I only prayed Eiichiro too would counter in time. As arrogant as he'd been it appeared now that the odds were stacked highly against us. I didn't know yet of what Goldie was fully capable of, but he would certainly have to raise the wager quite a bit. The armored limb struck the earth with full force, sending torrents of water spraying everywhere once more. My heart skipped a beat - things were getting out of hand fast. By now the caravan was long gone, their horses and carts fleeing the scene at full speed. Between the ear-splitting rumble of the ground and cascade of water I'd lost sight of my newly met companion. Then again, it was about time I put my own arsenal to good use. I went to form handseals and then...

"Crush'em Kanisoku! Ahaha, Crush'em good!"

[/right]

---

SPOILER: Click to show

-Shushin [2|7]

Yori

Kazekaeshi (Wind Return)
Rank: D, C, B, A, S
Type: Defensive / Fuuton Ninjutsu
Range: See special!
Handseals: Yes
Chakra: Equal to the technique being reflected.
Special: Effective in blocking and returning ninjutsu and taijutsu of equal rank. Push-back distance is equal to the user's 'Kiroku Gaijuu'. Cannot block jutsu whose attack power has been increased due to retraining or mastery, as those simply would pass through.
Description: No one knows the power of Fuuton more than a Fuuton specialist, and this technique was designed by those that met reality sooner than most. Varying by skill and rank, this technique allows the user to take hold of any offensive jutsu used upon them, as along as the attack’s nature allows for whatever is thrown to be controlled. With a great burst of chakra at either their hands or weapons, the user quickly returns the technique back at the opponent, in full effect.
Domain: Fuuton. Kiroku Gaijuu of equal rank.

Hyugo

Kanisoku
Rank: A
Type: Summon
Range: --
Special: He is highly skilled with taijutsu, and iis capable of standing and balancing on one leg, making him extremely dangerous because then he has nine other limbs he can fight with.
Description: Kanisoku is massive, though not quite as large as his parents. Several men can easily lounge on his head, let alone his broad back. He is different from other crabs in that his shell is dark blue. His body is thick and heavyset, and his claws are ridiculously big. Wears an all white gi with bright red lining.
Domain: Summon

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[vegapunk]

// crash! //

The collision of the two forces of chakra rocked the surrounding area as their two energies met. The crystalline dragon, birthed from the air itself, propelled forward at speed towards the two suspecting bandits. None-the-less it seems that they came more prepared than Eiichiro had originally thought. With a powerful surge of gusting wind it would equal-out the strength of his own dragon, as fragments of crystal were hurled backward towards where Eiichiro was standing. Simply raising his hand to shield his face from the debris, his midnight jacket would twist and turn in the winds generated from the impact. As his focus turned to Jun he would think, Interesting, but lets see what our new found friend here can do.

It was just after the crashing blast, before the summoning of the crab, that Eiichiro would once again form seals underneath his coat. Weaving in an intricate fashion, he would only need three seconds before his next jutsu would be birthed, appearing to the enemy as a simple mere mental thought from the Gem King. But, there were two targets in this battle and it seems the next guy decided to make his move. As the giant crab appeared in a cloud of smoke Eiichiro's eyes would light-up in awe. He enjoyed the 'Kuchiyose no Jutsu' with a childlike curiosity, the beckoning of creatures all shapes and sizes overly compelling. But with that fleeting feeling he could feel the intensity of the battle rising as the crab moved to launch itself. Like a tumbling timber log its large claw would drop in the location of the two, creating a thunderous crackle in the landscape as the immediate earth upturned on itself.

However, both shinobi and kunoichi had vanished before it would even reach the ground. Jun, within a flicker, moved away from the location and out of his sight. She had good control over her chakra allowing her to access blinding speed at a whim; however Eiichiro chose a more traditional method. As the claw reached its apex he would move, pushing off of his right leg jumping up in the air slightly, while predominantly moving backward. The claw would fall to a crashing halt right in front of his location and thankfully not on him. But, as the claw sunk into the earth that was when Eiichiro would make his intentions clear. Completing the seals beneath his coat, he started the near-instant creation of a deep purple crystal which would form around the three targets on the battlefield (2 bandits, 1 crab). A fast-moving offensive jutsu, pillars of crystal would quickly form around the bandits and crab, forming from the earth beneath their feet, powerfully restricting pillars of crystal that would lock them into place forcefully.

This could well be the final moment to this whole charade, lets see how she wants to take this- Eiichiro thought to himself as his powerful crystalline jutsu would ensnare all his enemies. If Jun ever was worried it would only last for a measly second as the tide of the battle washed over to Eiichiro's side once more. He was never in doubt however, arms not even removed from beneath his coat. Still it was the practical thing to do, the weather truly setting the scene for the battle. As the rain continued to plunder down from the heavens above these bandits would find themselves in a very sticky situation. As a simple smile crossed the Raikage's face he would see the movement of his enemies seized as crystal formed up their body to their necks. Versed in the ninja arts these bandits were, but did they have the chakra control to overpower a crystal masters trap? As this was not simple crystal, it would glow when absorbing chakra from the bandits further reinforcing its herculean hold.

They would need to think of something fast and as Eiichiro's feet connected with the ground once again his golden locks would flicker in the windy and wet conditions. As the dust settled from where the crabs claw crashed to the ground he would turn, once again giving his attention the girl Jun. Spotting that she was unharmed from the events that unfolded, he would bellow a brassy comment to her in a confident manner as if to reassure her of his control.

"I could take you to Kumogakure, hm, but first lets see what you are made of. Treat our guests here to a little vigilante justice eh?"

SPOILER: Click to show

* 10 meters from one bandits, and in front of the other & crab
* approx. 10 meters from Jun

Shuisho Chuushabari (Crystal Needle Restraint)
Rank: C, C, C
Type: Supplemental / Ninjutsu / Shouton Kekkei Touta
Range: See special!
Handseals: Yes
Chakra: Low
Special: Area of emerging needles depends on the user's 'Crystallization Command' rank, with the victim at the center. Enough needles emerge to restrain a single victim from below. Can restrain up to one target per use, plus one more each time retrained.
Description: Although basic, the Needle Restraint technique is nonetheless effective. After forming a few simple seals, the Shoton user summons a flurry of fast moving crystal pillars from underneath their target's feet. The aim is not to injure them, but to overwhelm their body in staffs of crystal that prevent movement and best of all, drain the user of chakra slowly in order to power and reinforce the prison.
Domain: Shoton. Must know 'Crystallization Commandment' 'C'.

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[Jun]

And then gray hair made his move. He was soundless in using but one second to coat a lone kunai in fuuton chakra; the follow-up came even faster as his trained eyes locked on to the spot at which my body flicker ceased. An arm blessed with precision sent the projectile in that direction, the rain doing nothing to deter it from going stray from its path. I, on the other hand, was just as tactical - electric blue vision saw the dagger coming the instant it met the air. A simple side-step and the metallic knife would pass by unhindered, though in an unexpected turn of events Yori appeared directly (shushin) in front of me, his use of the kunai proving to be nothing more than a clever distraction. Both tantos he drew - a practiced reverse grip allowed for a graceful, albeit deadly arc of his weapons toward the center of my throat. As if the timing for everything around our decisive battle wasn't already sketch I ducked just as the abbreviated blades crossed and formed an 'X' at where my neck should have been. 'Too close for comfort.' Without me even giving much thought my dainty hips reacted in a whirlwind of motion. Still kneeling, I swung around before sweeping my opponent off of his feet with an outstretched leg. He fell backward, splashing in a deep puddle; royal colored crystals started to overtake his entire frame soon after.

A shocking sight. I looked up at the crab to see that the same thing was happening to it and its summoner too. Clearly Eiichiro's doing - his affinity for crystals was something I would have to ask about later on, nothing I'd seen previously could compare to how unique it was. At any rate, the dust from the crab's meaty fist had at last settled. All but two were rendered immobile. Of to the side I finally noticed sunny hair touch down after an enthralling leap; our eyes were quick to meet in a moment of relief.

"I could take you to Kumogakure, hm, but first lets see what you are made of. Treat our guests here to a little vigilante justice eh?"

[/right]

The idea sounded pleasant. I returned a genuine smirk and nodded. The foe laying before me made helpless squirms from inside of his priceless, glowing prison. A 10 meter back-pedal was made while gloved fingers conducted a 4 second dance to inspire my chakra.

'Somethings coming...'

Yori muttered.[/right]

What I managed to create was epic - the clouds themselves began to grow restless...and then darker. The oxygen surrounding us was left even more chilling than it had been prior. In a blinding flash our enemies were presented with a swift and painless death; twin beams of brilliant, blue energy descended from the skies and quite literally shattered their whole world. I was sure their masses disintergrated under the formidable essence of ranton chakra nature. The circular blasts continued to pour from ghastly clouds long after their forms were reduced to nothingness. Only the crab was spared a permanent death, for it merely poofed away in an equally big heap of smoke upon being struck by one of two bolts. Once I knew the conflict was over I called my creations away, the storm now seeing the finale of its climax. Rain continued yes, but to a lesser extent now. Realizing that things were resolved and that we were now alone I turned and walked toward Eiichiro, my first and last jutsu of the day having taken a lot out of me."I don't know who you are but you've won me over. Take me to Kumogakure, I'd like to serve your village while I continue searching for my brother."

A duo of craters were left imprinted in the earth - they remained steaming.

---

SPOILER: Click to show

Sousagatakoushi no Jutsu (Shooting Laser Storm Technique) [x2]
Rank: A
Type: Offensive / Ranton Ninjutsu
Range: See special!
Handseals: Yes
Chakra: High
Special: Summons a powerful Ranton laser storm that emits a thick, blasting bolt capable of tearing through even the strongest of earth. Diameter of the laser storm blast and distance it can tear into the earth is equal to 1/5th the user's highest 'Ranton Ryuuken' range; distance from which they can cast this is equal to the whole 'RR' range. User can target area in which blast lands, but cannot move storm. Up to one laser can be summoned, plus one more each time retrained; however, after every second retraining, chakra consumption shall go up by one. User cannot summon an amount of laser blasts that will be bigger than the area in which they can control.
Description: After the necessary handseals are created, a strong thunderstorm descends from the skies, darkening the clouds and inciting a cold air about. Quickly after, a powerful thick ranton blast descends in the form of a straight, constant flowing thunder beam. Light blue in nature, its radius spans in a circular, spherical pattern, and its constant output can destroy even the hardest of surfaces. With enough training, multiple blasts can be brought forth at once!
Domain: Ranton. Ranton Ryuuken 'A'

Yori:

Kaiten Shuriken (Rotating Shuriken)
Rank: D
Type: Supplementary / Fuuton Ninjutsu
Range: See special!
Handseals: No
Chakra: Low
Special: Can control one projectile per use, plus one more each time retrained. Projectiles cannot be altered in flight once thrown. Distance and speed at which they can travel depends on the user's Kiroku Gaijuu range.
Description: One of the simplest Fuuton techniques, this supplementary technique allows the user to take any secondary/projectile weaponry they have on them and coat them in Fuuton chakra. This allows the user to shoot them at high speeds under the wind manipulation, adding rotation and tumbling power to increase the speed of normal weapon attacks, as well as its deadliness.
Domain: Fuuton. Kiroku Gaijuu (Blasting Winds Reach) 'D'

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[vegapunk]

It had all been tied up, and in a particularly fashionable bow. The battle, although short, had revealed more than Eiichiro had thought. He wanted to test the girl and get her to expose her true strength to the man - and that was exactly what she did. The power of the sky, that was what she had harnessed to finish the battle off. Ahh, the Kekkei Touta Ranton...full of surprises this one is.. he thought to himself as she approached his position. Almighty and impressive in itself, it was something that Eiichiro had seen before. Naturally so, the advanced release was birthed in Kumogakure after all under the guidance of the heavens which tested its fury on the village so often. Imprinted on the earth remained the remnants of the ferocious attack as steam float through the air, however it slowly faded in the rain soon after.

The technique that she had used was incredibly powerful, even for a release of that nature. His mind started to wander as it tried to filter through the mysteries that this girl posed. Her background suggested that she was from this country, her Ranton-natured chakra a testament to that, and also the fact that she was currently travelling through this land. Only a hunch, but it was a bet he was willing to put ryo on. It would also explain her curiosity towards his village, as she began to speak to Eiichiro - once again professing that he should take her to the village. Indeed, curiosity would then visibly tattoo itself as a playful smile crept across his face.Serve?...brother? these were things he wanted to know. But before he would answer, the golden-haired shinobi would rummage through a pouch before pulling out a cigarette and lighter. Pursing his lips he would ignite the tip, allowing smoke to burrow itself in his mouth before escaping to the surrounding air.

"You want to know who I am? Hmm, it would be best if you did know who I was before you served Kumogakure as a shinobi..

// Eyebrows raised, and with a cheerful and confident tone he would then introduce himself, pushing his hand out forward initiating a handshake //

"My name is Munashi, Eiichiro - Shodaime Raikage of Kumogakure, its a pleasure to meet you."

His forest-green eyes would set upon hers, peering through the lens of his sunglasses as if they weren't even on. He had hoped that she didn't take notice of his supercilious behaviour in the previous battle, as now his demeanor would change after introducing himself. Commanding like a kage should be, an intrinsic aura of authority would now evolve from him, now firmly cementing itself in the girls cognition. It came with the territory after one introduces themselves as a kage, even when they were as young as Eiichiro - or perhaps even more-so because of his age. But more interestingly, he wanted to know more about her, and that would begin with the knowledge of her brother. Instigating that they should walk, he would then speak once again to the dark-haired girl, his intentions and interest pure in nature.

"Let's walk and talk Jun. So, you said you are searching for your brother...what is his name, and what happened to him?"

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[Jun]

OOC ~

[/color] Really sorry about the wait. Uh, I dunno what you plan to do with that scroll but we should aim to wrap this thread up pretty soon. We're both kinda busy I'm sure. [/size]

---

Seeing as the deed was done I'd accept Eiichiro-san's offer to converse. A windy drizzle flushed over our heads - if one thing was for certain, the weather in Kaminari sure was persistent. He exposed a cigarette nevertheless, and upon igniting its tip re-introduced himself. Back at a few feet away, I'd yawn, weary from such extensive days of travel. Kumogakure sounded nice about now and I meant that in all honesty. The man before me had to have influence there, as I assumed him to be at least of Jounin rank until...

"My name is Munashi, Eiichiro - Shodaime Raikage of Kumogakure, its a pleasure to meet you."

[/right]

Wait, what? Had I just heard him right? He was the village leader? My eyes jolted to full awareness in an instant - so much so that he was bound to notice. Yet, that was beside the point; of all people I could have possibly run into it was the very figure Kota-san and I had been keen on finding all along. Coincidence? I think not. Throughout it all though, he kept the same dauntless and upbeat demeanor. Telling from his battle experience, he was a praiseworthy commander in my opinion. In another roll of thunder, Goldie gestured that it was time to move along; which was for the best, of course, we didn't want to be tracked by potential avengers. While we started our walk he brought up the topic of Masanori - my royal blue orbs confronted his persona then, sunglasses and all. I fancied a gentleman like him would give me a personal tour of the village once we arrived. That was a warming prospect. Even still, mention of my brother always made my heart sink.

"Umm, well Raikage-sama, there really isn't much to say..."

[/size]

While true we hadn't know each other for long at all, it was weird addressing him by such an esteemed title. I went on with my explanation however. "Masanori disappeared three years ago - from Tsuchi no Kuni. Well, that's where I used to live, I was once a kunoichi from Iwagakure. But I defected not too long ago...hopefully that won't put a strain on things." Side by side, I couldn't help but feel an ounce of regret for spilling the truth about my past life. If he decided to turn on me, I had no qualms with retaliating and making a swift retreat - I only hoped he wouldn't take it that far. At the same time he seemed understanding; as Kage, Eiichiro was bound to have learned to deal with shinobi from all walks of life. "I'm a traitor, yeah I know. But I was born here in Kaminari. I figured I'd have a good chance of finding him here. My intuition is really good, what with me being a sensor and all." For now I had said enough. It was time to keep my mouth closed and listen in on what the Raikage had to say. The Raikage?

I still couldn't believe it.




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[vegapunk]

SPOILER: Click to show

Yeah, I plan to wrap this up now. I will tie the scroll into another plot I have going, so its all good. Hopefully this can clear our threads up a bit.

Her response to Eiichiro's divulging of his title was common place, and he took it as a good sign. Her demeanor towards him had soften to the point of near trust - a contrast to which Eiichiro noticed when they first met. He could tell that she was somewhat of a veteran of these roads, and many others, as they way she approached new situation was always cautious and alert. This was a trait that he willed in his own shinobi, the capability - no, the the instinct that comes with being on the road. You learn who you can, and cannot trust very quickly, allowing a better analyse of stranger within seconds. She seemed to have faith towards him, an aire of conviction even when see spoke. He would smile as he thought to himself was she a ninja that could or would be loyal to Kumo?

However, as they began to walk and talk in the direction of the village which was not far away, Eiichiro had to begin the formulate a plan for their arrival. His forest-green eyes would fall upon the girl as she spoke of her brother, and her defection. Eiichiro's eyebrows would furrow and lips tighten slightly as he heard her speak. Such topic's were taking a toll on the girl, as her words fell heavy to his ear - it was something that she didn't find easy to talk about. He didn't want to disturb her conscience any further, so he refrained from any further delving comments. Instead, he would speak reassuringly - trying to make the girl feel as though everything would be alright. As in a moment, she would get a the shock of her life; he hoped she would understand.

"That's in the past now, I'm sure you'll find him. But... -you trust me don't you?'

It was a question which she expected herself to answer, but in reality it was rhetorical. He noticed that when he lit his cigarette Jun released a weary yawn, at a crossroads it seemed all was dawning - something that would be physically expressed. Eiichiro had to make his move now, it was the perfect moment. She was a nuke-nin who possess a rare touta ability that originates from Kumogakure. Even if he wanted to bring her through the gates there would be questions, her foreign marked headband begin one of them. He would need to capture her, bring her in as his captive. He was the kage of Kumogakure yes, but his village was not run as a dictatorship. Even the Sandaime would have to answer to the elders and council members on such a matter if he were to willingly bring a nuke into the village. So, he had a plan - capture her he will. Anyway where was the fun in anything else.

As they walked side-by-side Eiichiro would inhale the remainder of his cigarette, allowing a large amount of smoke to enter his lungs. He would then release the thick grey smoke through his mouth, slightly in the direction of Jun. Thinking nothing of it, it would disorientate her for a moment as the smoke crossed over her face - obscuring her vision for only a moment. But a moment was all he needed. His arms would escape from his robe and in his hands would sit ninja wire already to wrangle the girls hands. Grabbing them he would quickly pin them behind her back; wrapping the wire extensively around in a figure of eight (but making sure it wasn't too tight and uncomfortable for her). At a moments reaction, she would fall confused - but that wouldn't be enough to help her. Quickly, he grabbed her by the torso, clutching her tightly underneath his torso. She was surprisingly light, but then again she was a relatively small girl. Then, he would enter a sprint towards the village, with Jun underneath his arm. As they made their way closer to the entrance he would begin to speak to her, in a quiet and calm voice.

"Don't be alarmed I won't hurt you, this is just a precaution. As the Kage I must adhere to village protocol - you are a nuke-nin after all. Just say nothing."

He had that scroll with him as well, so he couldn't take any risk with her. As he clutched the young women underneath his arm he wondered if her safety was truly guaranteed..

SPOILER: Click to show

1x wire

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[vegapunk]

/ EXIT!