Chuunin Exams, the Side Lines

[King]

Information

[/b] The posting order is loose. Write as much as you want.[/ul][/justify][/blockquote]

[pandoru]

It was a fine day for tournament style elimination. Or at least that's what Lightning thought as she looked around at the rest of the stadium. People of all ages and backgrounds crowded what seemed like every seat which made her glad she had gotten hers early. She herself was right in the middle of one particular set of stands, wearing light pink clothing and a small, light blue bow in her hair.

Lightning looked to her left and saw an AUNBU member settling a seating dispute between two angry citizens. She then took a sigh of relief that she was one of the few ANBU that had miraculously gotten the day off. Well, on call was more like it. She was required to preemptively set up five shadow clones in the stands to keep a better eye out on what was going on. That meant all she had to do was sit back and relax… and use her doujutsu to copy all the badass techniques!

[Apple]

ENTER!

The travel to Konohagakure had gone seamlessly for the most part, although slowed somewhat due to obvious reasons. However - we'd arrived a day early, and for majority of the rest of that day, I'd merely checked in at one of the highly esteemed hotels within the village, and booked myself and Ujiyasu two separate rooms in the plush building. I'd slept somewhat soundly last night except for some brief awakenings by nothing more than my own twisted body clock, and although I'd had some amount of sleep, as I now walked through the complex arena towards the skybox that had been created for the village, I appeared drained. With the blonde chuunin undoubtedly by my side, we made it through the crowds of people with an official member of staff who welcomed us to both Konohagakure and the grand arena which hosted the games themselves, who directed us towards our destined location. Time passed and soon enough I found myself gazing around at the room in question, and at the various privileges that came with it. Plush seats, screens and staff at hand lingered all over the room, although it was nothing new, given that it was a similar set up to how it had been arranged all those years ago during the exam hosted in Mizu no Kuni. A single hand sheltered my stomach as I entered. From what I could see, none of the other village leaders had appeared yet, allowing me to wander freely around the space with Ujiyasu in tow. Turning towards him, I began to address the chuunin.

"..I'm assuming you'll be watching Kasumi?"

Of course, although I emphasized on her name, she was the only kusagakure genin participating.



"..She has a good head on her shoulders.
..I'm sure she'll go far."

"..Although the same can be said for you, Ujiyasu."

I spoke in a soft, tired tone as I paid a glance towards one of the few monitors - none of the fights had begun yet, and all that could be seen was a blank landscape, devoid of any action. But, it wouldn't be too long until it would all begin. It was easy to notice that I'd forgiven him after the outburst I'd had during the meeting all those months ago, although I only hoped that he'd stuck with his parting words and that he was now in support of Kouketsu, myself, and the child that was due to be born soon. I soon turned my gaze back towards Ujiyasu, giving him a gentle smirk, before turning and beginning to take another casually paced walk around the room once more, a few members of staff gazing over at myself and my assistant. opting out of wearing my offical kage robes and instead choosing to wear much more comfortable clothing, I moved towards one of the grand windows, pressing my gloved hand on it as I gazed out at the arena below. My other hand spread across my stomach, I watched on as nothing happened on the field, and at the people as they began to fill up the seats of the arena, having come far and wide across the world to watch the exams. With the sea of blonde still lingering behind me like some kind of beautiful cloud, I kept my position fixed near the wall, as I mused exactly who would turn up as representatives of their villages. Since I'd become Kusakage, several village leaders had died, retired or been replaced, and because of that, I honestly didn't expect to know half of the people in charge of the world at this current time. But - despite the fact that I looked as if I should be back in the village resting, I couldn't afford to miss out on an opportunity such as this one. I merely hoped that the other kage were as enthusiastic about meeting their fellow leaders as I was. It's not that I was the outgoing kind of people person - I simply liked knowing exactly who was in charge of the villages that surrounded my own.

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[Krethean]

The trip was smooth, and while both Blanche and Ujiyasu took it easy and cautious, which was very reasonable with the Kusakage in her current condition., they got to Hi no Kuni quite early. Blanche was kind enough to book a room for him at a hotel, where they would stay for the night. With Blanche in another room, he had some time to think. He knew Kasumi would be there, she told him that night that they spent together that she would be participating, and Ujiyasu did all he could to make sure she would be ready. Knowing he would be able to keep an eye on her, did make him feel more at ease, and he hoped that him being there would help her relax if she had any nerves.

Blanche was also on his mind, what with her revelation a fair while ago, as well as his concern for her safety, as well as her child's. Blanche did seem somewhat hostile to him at the time when he spoke his mind, but he didn't blame her. She clearly had strong feelings, and she was pregnant back then too. There was quite a bit that ran through his thoughts, and it took several hours before he found himself more settled.

Once he was sure Blanche was safe, and resting, Ujiyasu made his way to his room, where he would climb into bed and drift to sleep, Kasumi on his mind once more.

The next day saw both the Kusakage and the Kusa Chuunin making their way through the sea of people. He greeted the staff member with a courteous bow, as he led the two Kusa representatives to where they could watch the Chuunin Exams. To Ujiyasu, this was a first for him, both because this is the first Exams that he turned up to that he wasn't competing in, and being in the Kage's skybox... a privilege reserved purely for the Kage and their bodyguards. Looking around, it was made clear that there was no expense spared for the leaders of each nation's Shinobi forces.

The arena below seemed serene, like a sleeping tiger. It wouldn't be too much longer before the arena roared to life with the various Genin who would showcase their skills to the people, the proctors, their opponents and to themselves. He was keen to see what the various Genin had to offer, be he was more interested in Kasumi's performance. After all, she is a Shinobi from Kusa, a member of his squad, and as of late, someone he had become quite involved with. As if to read his mind, Blanche spoke to him about Kasumi, and that he would be watching her.

"Of course. We've spent quite a bit of time together, so I'll be keen to see how well she goes. I have a lot of confidence in her"

It was true that he did spend a lot of time with Kasumi, and it wasn't just from the relationship that grew between them. The other two members of Doshaburi had been extremely difficult to get a hold of, and he often found himself wanting to just dismiss the two Genin for being so goddamn tardy and bring in Genin who would stick with it. Hell... tardy probably isn't even the right word. They just simply could not be found. Anywhere.

When Blanche told the boy that Kasumi would go far for being level-headed, he couldn't help but give a small smile. When she said that he too was similarly go far, he spoke rather humbly. While he was proud of his accomplishments, he knew he wasn't up there with many of the shinobi that exist in the world. He too had a lot to learn.

"Kasumi'll make it quite far I think... so long as she can focus on what's important. I'm very proud of her nonetheless for taking this step as it is. As for me... perhaps. I'll have to see where things take me, and where I can take myself."

He looked at Blanche as they looked at each other. His own eyes spoke volumes about what he went through, and likewise Blanche's eyes told him that she had been through quite a lot herself. He knew that things were not going to be easy, the village meeting was proof enough of that, and that was just within Kusagakure's own friggin' walls. There was no telling what would happen with all of the other nations. The Raikage's death alone was proof enough that there was something was happening, and Ujiyasu didn't like it at all.

"It's going to be a difficult road for all of us I think."

[Estilo]

-- Enter.

Clad in an ebony-shaded hooded robe, that effectively concealed the pieces of armor I wore beneath it, I would enter among the throng of people that had come to see the Chuunin Exams this year. Beneath the shadow of my wide-brimmed hood, the upper-half of my white mask was hardly visible. Yet, as I searched for a good seat among the influx of foreign visitors, I managed to catch a quick glimpse of the kage seats overlooking the impressive arena. It was then that I abruptly stopped, ignoring the pushes and shoves that came from behind me as people moved on to find their places. Was that... Blanche? She held a hand against the room's window, and another on her stomach. And, despite the distance between us, that flowing blonde hair of hers was instantly recognizable.

Lady Kusakage. It fit her well.

Though no one could see it, a smile formed behind the mask I wore. But I couldn't dilly-dally now. I'd come here for a reason, after all, and had no time to awe in the presence of the new kage's like the rest of the common populace. So, without further adieu, I found a good seat among the southern half of the arena. Leaning back comfortably into my chair, I'd casually bring up my right boot onto my left knee, and I'd wait. With my cardinal red hair tied back into a ponytail, and kept hidden under the cover of my hood, I'd wait and watch amongst the crowds of foreigners and cheering spectators. The true spirit of the exams could be found here, among the patriotic populace.

But, damn, did I miss the room service up on that kage platform. Wishing I had a glass of aged scotch to enjoy, the eyes behind my mask would focus on the arena before me. Every so often, however, they cast a glance towards the kage seats above. If history had anything to prove, it was that these exams didn't always go down as expected. For now, however, everything seemed to be going swimmingly for the exam proctor. The first match was beginning now, and I could feel the tense excitement in the air. The games had begun at last.

[Haretsu]

Hyōhaku

¹One of the utmost things gifted to humans was the aptitude of spectacle. Observation furnished knowledge, smoldering information into his mind until thoughts were engraved into his brain. They were ordered, pursued a sequence; the contenders desired a rank, Haretsu squared himself in the reduced southern rows, directly up front, and, in turn, he would learn everything about those within the box. It was unfortunate that he missed the deadline for the Chūnin Exams, but he would not follow a lead that was not alive. Haretsu pledged to chip in next time—if not for himself, for his village. His rations meant as much as everybody else’s.

²Little did anybody know, he wanted to make his sensei, and the candidate Tsuchikage, Genjiro Shiro, proud of the trivial things he accomplished. There was no question about Haretsu’s loyalty. From the distance, north from where the Kage were seated, Haretsu would delay for the emergence of his master, clandestinely geared to belt if somebody strived to assault his leader. It distressed Haretsu to murder people, as the smell of blood and death piqued him. Yet, it animated him, and aroused him for combat. Haretsu did not mind homicide for inherently “moral” reasons. It was something he ascertained with coping.

³Pausing for the contestants, Haretsu inspected the entire vicinity, counting out how many people were adjacent to him, and taking note of all their features, both major and minor. Thinking one-step ahead was an essential part to being a shinobi. Not many were keen to this, and it was those people who were absent in the dark, sightless before death. They may have been physically vigorous, but that was not enough to save them from their fate. It was something they earned, and deserved for their treachery against the world. Leaning back, he propped his legs upon a rail six inches leading him. They were intersected like a pencil, right over left. Haretsu was sharper than most. Nobody would be capable of walking past him. Those who tried would end up with their story finished, dead and forgotten. Folding his fingers, and clenching his hands together, he narrowed his eyes while waiting and watching.

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SPOILER: Click to show

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SPOILER: Click to show

x1 Massive / x2 High

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⁰Equipped

[purple]

Though it had been years now since her own test, Suzuka found herself brimming with nervous energy whenever she attended these exams. She couldn’t quite tell what it was. It could be excitement at the prospect of witnessing young shinobi as they proved themselves and grew stronger in the process. It could be the strategy element, piquing her interest as a tactician. It could be the trauma she’d faced around her own exams, which happened very near to the death of her mother. Regardless of what it was, regardless of the discomfort, it did make her feel alive. Every day lately had bled into the next; sleep and awake seemed more and more alike. For all the effort she’d been putting into living, she sometimes got tired, bogged down by memory and the weight of forgetting.

But the stands were alive with energy and bustle, and there was sure to be a great showing here today. While the pool was relatively smaller than she would have expected, Suzuka was sure things would be entertaining. Hopefully, though, they wouldn’t be too entertaining. While peace had found the villages temporarily, she knew the ninja world had a way of chasing it back away. Suzuka had seen the destruction that came with war, and while there was a ceasefire for the exams, more treacherous things had happened. Suzuka herself was fully prepared to protect her village—hopefully, though, she wouldn’t have to.

She had arrived early to get a seat near the front. She had an excellent view down into the tournament, the high walls surrounding the arena making the spectacle feel even grander. Of course, that was for everyone’s protection more than anything—even though these were genin, these battles could get intense. Where she was sitting, she’d have to keep her wits about her. Generally, civilians didn’t take these seats, for their own safety—at least as far as Suzuka knew. Of those dressed casually, some were ninja trying to relax, but some had to be ANBU or guard plants. Suzuka sighed, returning her eyes to the arena. She was stuck in her own mind too much lately—that was the problem. She exhaled, willing herself to think less, and watched in anticipation as the first round of the tournament began.

[/blockquote]

[Apple]

Hearing his voice perk up from behind me as I kept my hand positioned on the glass which was cool to the touch, I waited for him to finish speaking before I replied to him, my eyes unwavering from the various crowds. Of course - no one exactly stood out for me except for the odd few with unnaturally-colored hair, but I didn't recognize anyone. The chuunin exams were a large event and celebrated worldwide (Of course, celebrated when all went well - too many times in the past had there been problems of complications linked with some) and I expected to see someone at least. Simply being in the kage box told me that I'd be bumping in to one or two familiar faces, but that was yet to come, as myself and Ujiyasu were the only guests to have arrived early. But on the topic of Kasumi - I'd assigned Ujiyasu to lead a team, and she'd been part of the group he was leading, despite their ages being so close. And merely from the way that he spoke of her he could tell that he cared for the girl, which caused yet another subtle smirk to become evident on my lips, although he wouldn't have noticed given that I was facing away from him. I kept watching as all kinds of people continued to shuffle over to their seats as the matches prepared to begin. Given that we were leaders of each village that took part, we'd been given a prioritized area for us to view what was happening in, and whilst I appreciated that sentiment, there was nothing like being in the middle of a crowd during such events. But, recklessness taking over my mind momentarily, I soon came to and realized that it probably was best for me right now to be allowed my space instead of being cramped up in chairs close to people. The noise - the energy and all of the combined chakra signals that I'd come to be so sensitive to surely would have riled me up and made me hysterical. And for that reason, I was glad that I was allowed to roam as I pleased in this skybox, with enough room to allow me to think rationally. Of course - as each kage would make their appearance, so would their abilities in the form of tempting chakra that drove me wild. But - I'd have to take everything as it came and practice my self control, despite how severe such an addiction had some as of late. Hunger seeped from each and every pore of my body, and yet I watched on with the features of an angel, all blonde hair and blue eyes.

"..She was hesitant to come here, you know." I explained to him, momentarily allowing my head to gaze back at him before turning back towards the arena. "..The last time I'd spoken to her she told me that she'd wait until next year. ..It seems as if.." I paused, my words becoming distant, almost dreamy in tone, as a gentle smile became apparent on my face. "..She changed her mind about it, hm?" I then turned fully away from the window I'd previously been stationed at, beginning to move back towards the center of the room, where all of the different monitors could be seen which displayed each battle, standing tall before one of them which had become alight with activity. It seemed as if I'd missed the beginning of the first round, but it didn't matter. From the angle I was watching, I couldn't see the details of who was taking part, but a gargantuan wall of flame became evident before me, which, to say the least, was surprising. "..As the overused saying goes, Ujiyasu - ..the world is your oyster." I paused, continuing to gaze up at the screen, coming to see from the small people on it that the person who had chanelled the attack was none other than Kasumi herself, which caused a smug smirk to creep its way on to my face. She seemed to be doing well.

"It's going to be a difficult road for all of us I think."


I paused, musing my words for a moment as my eyes lay fixed on the screen before me. My answer was quick, but my gaze back towards Ujiyasu was slow, but nonetheless meaningful.

"..Our lives are what we make of them."

"..Allow no-one else to tell you otherwise."

[/b][/color][/right]

"It's not the road that's going to be difficult, but the people that we meet along it."[/center]

There were all kinds of people in this world - and a lot of them were surely out to get you and put you down for various things that you did. In the past, I'd been one of those people, and even now I was still that person, in a way. But this child gave me hope not only that Kouketsu, a tyrant who had dominated the shinobi world, could change, but myself, too. I did agree, however, that things weren't going to be that simple. I didn't think that the next few weeks, months or years would be easy given the nature of our world. Peace was something that could linger for a while, but it was never permanent. The least I asked for was a small amount of time that I could spend with my new family before something else would come up that would require my attention. The attack upon Kumogakure was unfortunate, and I only hoped that similar things didn't follow up, for the sake of allowing me to raise my child in the peace that I so desperately wanted. But - we'd have to wait and see and take each day as it came. I was all too fixed on preserving harmony in this world through not allowing my shinobi to commit any devious crimes against any other villages, but it concerned me that others perhaps weren't so strict.

This was our world, and we shared it whether we wanted to or not.

SPOILER: Click to show

1 Infuin stack gained.

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[Trigga]

“W-we’ve saved you a s-seat in the Kage’s skybox, Lord Niidaime!” One of the many in-hand employees fervently spoke with the intent of gathering my attention. While I normally donned the reticent shroud of my Anbu attire around, I found little need to exhaust the effort when I was perfectly settled. As such, without an obstruction to my eyes, I could see the exhilaration on his face, as well as the anxiety he currently exuded. Beads of sweat quickly trialing down his plump face while his words came in slight stutters; surely he wanted to make a good impression, regardless, he had done more than enough.

My right hand soon found refuge on the man’s shoulder; a comforting grip as a smile would surely seal my appreciation. “Thank you for the hospitality, though I must decline.” In truth, I still held the title of Niidaime, and while I presently didn’t hold office, my claim to the Fire Shadow alone still held strong influence. Nonetheless, I didn’t feel the need to be up there with the current heads of each respective village. I had a much better view from the southern garrison, and I could see well into their chambers; I could see her. You seem well, musing to myself without the need to share my thoughts, my amber eyes rested on the frame of the newly-appointed Kusakage. It had been quite some time since I saw her, though her realm of golden blonde hair and calm eyes hadn’t escapes my memory. In due time I’d probably announce myself; as for now, I was excited to see the upcoming Shinobi.

The sheer openness of the area allowed the sun to bless my complexion with warm and light as I sat in the comforts of my Hakuma and kosode. My hair, quite ample, propped behind the seat in an ocean of blue. I didn’t bother concealing my appearance, and those who bothered looking would easily be able to recognize me. There wasn’t a need to hide and this was a time of celebration. Now, all I had to do was wait and be amazed by the future of this Shinobi regime to showcase both skill and ambition.

[Nujabes]

Better late than never, I thought as I climbed the winding stairs that led to the Kages' personal skybox. It'd been a while since I'd been to Hi no Kuni, and though I no longer considered the Hidden Leaf my home (or origins, really), it still brought back fond memories of the place. Nostalgia was thick in the air, and as I emerged from the hall and into the skybox, I took a deep breath.

"Good day, Lady Kusakage." My voice was loud and clear, easily overwhelming any of the conversations taken place. It hadn't been long since I'd seen the Kusakage, with her having just visited my village not too long ago-- but I didn't see Kohana.

Both my robes -- pale, alabaster white -- and ceremonial hat, fit me quite well. I'd chosen to wear the face-cover as well, not that my identity was much of a secret; there weren't many in the world who could impersonate me, and not many places that I, personally , could hide. Comes with the territory of being a giant and all.

[Estilo]

Out of the corner of my eye, I could tell a man had taken the seat to my right. But I didn't really bother to turn and see who it was. I assumed it was just another onlooker, another aspiring genin, another foreigner rooting for their village. No, I kept my gaze on the arena for the moment, watching as the two first combatants finally met. Intermittently, however, I'd look up at Blanche, and wonder: Just who are you looking for, Kusa? No other kage seemed to have entered the box she was in yet, and the beginning of the first match was dragging on just a bit longer than I'd hoped. So, casually, I'd remark to the mystery man to my right, "That Kusakage sure is something, isn't she?" I'd say, just as I saw her retreat from the skybox window.

Upon finishing my sentence, I'd turn to this unknown fellow beside me-- only to find that he wasn't as "unknown" as I had perceived him to be. My head froze, my wide-eyed gaze unwavering as I stared. Thanks to the cover of my mask and hood, however, he would fail to see such an expression. It was Ryusuke. Ryusuke Uchiha, in the flesh and blood. And I was sitting right next to him. I issued a single cough, feigning to clear my throat, as I slowly turned back to the arena. He couldn't have recognized my voice. Not behind the muffle of my mask. Not after the year and a half since we'd last seen each other. Regardless, I bounced the boot on my left knee with anticipation. "Fine leader, if I've ever seen one." I continued.

The battle in the arena had begun already, and I analyzed each player, each technique, each movement, with quick green eyes. It was safe to say, however, that the presence of the Nidaime Hokage presented quite a powerful distraction. But when had I ever failed at multi-tasking? I was certainly glad, albeit astonished, to see him in one piece. He had been, after all, one of my most trusted companions during my own reign as a Second Shadow. And I threw the idea of revealing my identity to him back and forth within my mind. Not now, however. As uncomfortable as I was having to remain incognito, I needed to be careful not to compromise the validity of my death yet.

For now, I'd play the part of the charismatic stranger.

[Krethean]

Kasumi was hesitant? Well... it would make sense in a way, she hadn't been around as a Genin for that long, but from the time they spent, she seemed to be quite... fired up. No doubt that she was inspired and motivated, especially considering that not going to the Exams the first chance you get is a sign that the person isn't overly confident in themselves. To hear that she changed her mind surprised Ujiyasu, and made him smile a bit.

He looked at the arena, where the Genin had begun taking on their opponents. Among the mass of Chuunin hopefuls, he spotted the vibrant red hair that he remembered all too well. Kasumi was in battle against her oppo0nent, both of whom had statues behind them that seemed to imitate their movements. It seemed bizzare, but Ujiyasu could guess that the "doppelganger" was a stipulation for the fight, and given the way it's positioned, it looked like it was something they were to protect, while taking out the other's statue. In his mind, he knew Kasumi would have an advantage. She had worked very hard to unlock the potential she had regarding her mother's use of Futton. Kasumi was overjoyed when she finally managed to cast her first Futton Ninjutsu and Ujiyasu was extremely proud of her that day.

While he had been born with the ability to control ice, she had the ability, but wasn't able to control her Boil Release until recently.

"I see. I'm glad to hear she's overcome her self-doubt. In truth, the first I heard of her and the exams was when she told me she was going to go."

He'd probably talk to her sometime about this. It wasn't a big deal though, so it won't be a "pull her aside and talk" thing, but it'd be something he'd bring up as a topic some time.

As Blanche talked to him about the life in general was, he became rather thoughtful. It was true that the people tend to make things a blessing or a curse throughout various events. He also knew that he would take things into his own hands and shape the life he wanted with his own blood, sweat and tears. He would create peace with everything he has at his disposal.

Before Ujiyasu would respond, a voice cut through the conversation, addressing Blanche specifically. Turning to the source, the tallish, blond-haired Chuunin found himself looking up at a veritable giant clad in a Kage's ceremonial robed, donning the hat and a cloth that would mask most of the man's face. Given the character on his hat, and the colour that accompanied the ceremonial white of the outfit, Ujiyasu could guess that it was the Mizukage. Despite not being addressed specifically, Ujiyasu gave the man a respectful bow nonetheless.

No reason to show disrespect in a place like this. Moreso since it's a time to see what each village had on offer.

[Apple]

Another gentle smile was directed towards the blonde chuunin and his bizarre choice of clothing (or at least, the color scheme was.. interesting. The colors strangely fitted together, but it was nonetheless a vibrant combination) Coming to notice a few details of what he was wearing, I allowed my eyes to linger on his tiger-striped sleeve for a moment or so before returning to back to his eyes. "..Upon her return to Kusagakure, whether she becomes chuunin or not; you must continue to try and bring out this sense of confidence in her, Ujiyasu." I paused, reflecting back on the meeting a few months ago wherein the girl had been perhaps slightly hesitant, but nonetheless willing to speak her mind over the controversial subject at hand. It had been a brave move on her part given her age and the general opinion in the village, and I appreciated it. "..The foundation is there; she just needs a sense of self-belief instilled within her." and on that comment, my head turned again to look at the monitors, the scene having shifted to another battle. I didn't know any of the shinobi taking part, but it was still interesting to watch to see what other villages had to offer as far as upcoming great shinobi were concerned. Although, the final outcome was anyone's guess.

"Good day, Lady Kusakage."

And, I'd have kept looking at the TV screens dotted around the place, had it not been for the voice that called for me. Lifting my right hand so that it lingered upon the top of my stomach, I allowed myself a short pause before approaching the call. It was familiar, and having spoken with the owner of such a booming voice recently, there was no mistaking just who it was. However - it wasn't only that. The moment that he'd entered the room I felt my senses become aflame with desire - not for him, but instead, the gargantuan supply chakra that was trapped within his body. Whilst it wasn't close to Kouketsu's own, it was different, being heavily influenced by the Hachibi that he held within him. But, exhaling softly, I did my best to keep myself composed. Turning my head to gaze at the figure that loomed nearby, I could clearly see that it was him, donned from head to toe in traditional robes. "..Akira." I grinned, recognizing his presence as I looked over at him. Whilst he chose to stick to formalities and call me by my title, I'd always felt quite.. awkward to have to name people as such, and because of that, it was rare that I called the village leaders by their respective professions, although having known Akira for a while, he wouldn't have been surprised. Given that it was only recently that I'd been given such a choice of clothing due to Kusagakure's ascent to becoming a great nation, I hadn't that many chances to wear them. And then I moved carefully, walking over to the statuesque man, before stopping directly before him so that I could speak to him without having to strain myself by shouting across the room. Gazing up at him through the small opening that permitted some amount of his face to be seen, I began to address him, my mind focused on the now, and the words that I was going to tell him, rather than the alluring taste of chakra that piqued my senses, and for the most part, my concentration, too.

"..Have you many genin participating this year?"

Regardless, my conversational skills were still perfectly intact.
It was only my eyes that remained slightly distant.

"I digress that Kusagakure has only produced one."



"However; not all is lost if she proves successful, hm?"

The grin reappeared on my face as I concluded my words.

"..I wonder if we'll be blessed with the presence of our fellow leaders, today.."

It was a passing remark - although not wholeheartedly meant to pawn on the tardiness of the other kage. I was sure that they were doing important things elsewhere, but given my own situation, it was much safer, and much more comfortable for me to simply stay within the skybox.

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[Nujabes]

Formality, in my case, was usually a one time thing. I watched as Blanche drew closer, not bothering to remove either my hat nor face-cowl. It was obvious she was well aware of who I was, considering she'd spoken my name. "There is no shame in a lone participant," I explained with a tone much softer than I usually exercised with foreign leaders. But, things were different between Blanche and I.

Since her visit to Kirigakure, I think we may have even become. . . friends. "Unlike the previous exams, even Kirigakure only has a single shinobi to represent us. My cousin, Chae Yoon." Surely, she would remember the name from our previous discussion. However, I was positive we were passed that; she seemed satisfied with the judgement I delivered, and hadn't questioned it.

"I believe they will both do wonderful." Falling silent, my gaze fell to the swell of her stomach. Not noticing a familiar pressure of chakra nearby, I leaned in close, so my words would only be heard by her. "I meant what I said, Blanche. While I don't doubt that your ninja are capable, know that you are fully protect so long as I am here. Should anything occur," I glanced about, "Getting you to safety will be my first and only priority." I placed a friendly hand on her shoulder, and smiled behind my cowl. "And next time-- let me come to your seat, hn? You shouldn't be walking so much."

[~Kohana <3]

As horrible as it sounded, Kohana was beginning to dislike everything about today. Not because of the Chuunin Exams specifically, but the underlying factors about it. The elders as well as her ex-advisers, the very ones who had originally usurped her from her position prior, had been bugging her since the night before. Would Aota pass? What would happen if he, the leader of the Uchiha, failed. Why weren't there more Genin participating, why didn't she do something.

It was humiliating, not for her, but for them.

Did they not realize that they were lucky to have the handful of skilled Jounin on file? Even if it had been a bit since war and plague, even if the buildings were rebuilt and the village made to the way it was. That didn't bring people back. Not to mention most Genin were children. They didn't understand the politics behind numbers and rank and how it helped solidify a villages security...in many ways.

However now wasn't the time for her to mull over the idiocy of the older generation. She had an appearance to make. After all, the Chuunin Exams were being held in her village! Admittedly, she was running late though. She had those old asses to blame for that. However she didn't rush, nor did she dress to impress. She simply wore her normal shinobi attire only with the trademark bright red hat of the Hokage on her head.

Are you going to trip over your words again if the Mizukage has already arrived and lay waiting for you?

Akira? No. I won't be doing that---as much as I would actually like to. I have an image to uphold. Besides, why would I make YOU look bad?

Kohana received no response from the Nibi as she ascended the stairs, nodding at one of Lightning's clones she passed to keep a close eye on the box just in case. That said and done she finally entered the box, greeted by the presence of three figures. Blanche and her guard, which was the Kusa-nin she had met in Kaze no Kuni during the Nibi attack, and, of course, Akira.

Naturally her heart broke rhythm for a moment before she calmed herself back down. She would merely nod at Ujiyasu before looking towards her fellow Kage with a smile. "Akira, Blanche, welcome to Konohagakure no Sato. Hope you don't mind the lack of formalities. It's just us up here after all."

Your face is becoming heated.

Shut up you damn cat.

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