Katsu took a moment to gather her thoughts. The last thing the woman remembered was being laid out on her ass ina c learing within the woods. After that some waif of a girl had come in and made a declaration of dissection and study. There was a fight, one where Katsu herself had no hope of gaining anything from the confrontation. She was outmatched, and the ability difference was clear. However, a sensation of satisfaction filled that thought. The woman was blunt, forward, and worth the investment of energy and sacrifice of meal. Even without the agreement for training Katsu would have indulged. But something had happened. The parasite took greater control. . . and Katsu had no fucking clue how.
From within the four stone walls Katsu paced and thought it through over and over. There was a fire and bloodshed. She had been wounded and had dealt back several such blows. She remembered her feet connecting and then remembered the shuriken that'd come briefly before. The chase and then a fire. The thought of that fire sent shudders down her spine still but it'd been managed at the time. But then something else happened. For so long she had wielded the shard of Vorashu and used it like before. She'd even managed to tame herself but something happened. There was a thrown blade that was easily deflected, but then her mind had slipped. Rage and desperation, bloodlust and hatred. It overwhelmed her. All the woman could consider was the kill and she'd walked right into a trap. A cage spawned from nowhere. The woman was a shinobi, the primal creature should have seen that coming, or known how to sunder the walls. What had happened to dull that revelation?
Katsu glanced over at the clothes that'd been laid out for her. They were simple, comfortable to most people and surely lined to make her appear as if she was nothing more than a civilian. However, the pockets stood out. The hanging garments had several pockets within that could easily hide weapons or equipment. Just like her own body these clothes could be used for deception, and they were of lower quality than the uniform that woman had been wearing. So many times she had gone over this and all the woman could consider was a genjutsu that spawned from some hidden seal the woman wore. Or perhaps the sound of it was hidden by something in her pockets. Less the girl had something hidden up her ass that did it nothing else made sense. Even if Katsu herself was well used to being pushed to bloodlust, indeed even embracing it, the fact this seemed forced upon her rang wrong.
She sat at the desk that'd been provided and looked over the various pieces of blank paperwork. Beneath them was a book on the local flora and fauna, kept open at a page concerning a particular type of deer. Desperate she opened the tome and looked over it further and found several creatures with unique defenses. Bears, snakes, bugs, and even the pray animals could readily fuck up and unprepared attacker. However, nothing struck out at her. This woman had no such thing on her. She didn't have fangs or stinger. She might be a snake in the shadows but she had no venom to speak of. Least nothing the titanic beast could smell. It had to be a genjutsu. Otherwise, the alternative was just that Katsu was further behind than she thought, and that potential reality alone was enough to get the woman to actually pick up a pen and write.
"Hanayo, this is Katsu. I don't have a fucking clue what happened to make me lose my mind but am damned sure you've something to do with it. I want to meet and talk. I'll leave the weapons at the door, the ANBU bitches would prefer that anyway. Let's see each other again, neutral ground. Bring whatever you like. Shit, bring a twelve inch strap on if you want. At this point I'd let you fuck me senseless just to know what you used. Just tell me what you used, and teach me how to do it. In return I'll tell you what I am, and how I became this way. If we have a deal, come to my room at sundown. Fair?"
The Scientist and the Subject
Dual/Chi
The Scientist and the Subject
Hanayo found the letter as it came to rest on her porch step. She read the message three times. The second time for understanding, after disbelief had rendered her illiterate for the first, and the last… it swept her away to her academy days and fond memories of finding other mysterious letters. She was as perplexed now as she was then. There was always desperation in between the lines. All she knew was they wanted something, but she never understood where the interest sprang from. ‘If we have a deal…’ Her fingers strayed to the scar tissue on her stomach. But no amount of begging ever moved her.
An old habit told her to ignore it. She did so in dramatic fashion, tearing the letter to shreds. Yet, no matter how she tried to dismiss it, her thoughts drifted back, like embers from a fire.
Their first encounter replayed in her mind—every moment, from its charming start to its fiery end. Again, again– and it wasn’t the violence, or banter, she was fixated on; it was her will. Katsu could take all of that punishment and still have an appetite for more. It made for a tempting invitation. Obvious, clumsy bait. But still… She couldn’t resist it, couldn’t, not even if she wanted to..
“It’s a date.”
When evening drew close and civilians shuffled through the streets on their way home, Hanayo set out for her meeting with the beast. The jounin was dressed for the occasion, wearing the uniform of the Leaf. Her pockets, flak jacket, waist pouches, were all flat empty. She considered bringing a gift as she had before but thought better of it. She remembered the rules of engagement, and how Katsu offered to set arms aside, she would return the courtesy. It was a well-received if entirely pointless gesture, however. Both of their bodies were weapons.
She detoured, taking a scenic route over the village. Hanayo wanted to keep Katsu waiting, anticipating. The letter indicated she was already on edge. She seemed to have that effect on the beast. Good. The more unstable she became, the more predictable her actions would be.
Hanayo appeared at the facility’s gates on the heels of nightfall. It took her eyes a moment to adjust once she made it within the walls. She could not see clearly in the dark, but there was an unwashed stench in the air. Chains rattled. She’d aroused the attention of the prisoners. The Leaf may be perceived as gentler than the other great nations, but the conditions of their prison were as low as any other. Hateful, half-feral eyes stalked her– an environment like this brought out the animal in people. As such, they quickly succumbed to a nonlethal dose of her poison.
Voices fell; bodies dropped. This would be a private affair.
If that hadn’t been enough of an entrance, she made sure Katsu heard the click of her boots as she stepped into the cell’s doorway. “Hope I didn’t keep you waiting too long.”
An old habit told her to ignore it. She did so in dramatic fashion, tearing the letter to shreds. Yet, no matter how she tried to dismiss it, her thoughts drifted back, like embers from a fire.
Their first encounter replayed in her mind—every moment, from its charming start to its fiery end. Again, again– and it wasn’t the violence, or banter, she was fixated on; it was her will. Katsu could take all of that punishment and still have an appetite for more. It made for a tempting invitation. Obvious, clumsy bait. But still… She couldn’t resist it, couldn’t, not even if she wanted to..
“It’s a date.”
When evening drew close and civilians shuffled through the streets on their way home, Hanayo set out for her meeting with the beast. The jounin was dressed for the occasion, wearing the uniform of the Leaf. Her pockets, flak jacket, waist pouches, were all flat empty. She considered bringing a gift as she had before but thought better of it. She remembered the rules of engagement, and how Katsu offered to set arms aside, she would return the courtesy. It was a well-received if entirely pointless gesture, however. Both of their bodies were weapons.
She detoured, taking a scenic route over the village. Hanayo wanted to keep Katsu waiting, anticipating. The letter indicated she was already on edge. She seemed to have that effect on the beast. Good. The more unstable she became, the more predictable her actions would be.
Hanayo appeared at the facility’s gates on the heels of nightfall. It took her eyes a moment to adjust once she made it within the walls. She could not see clearly in the dark, but there was an unwashed stench in the air. Chains rattled. She’d aroused the attention of the prisoners. The Leaf may be perceived as gentler than the other great nations, but the conditions of their prison were as low as any other. Hateful, half-feral eyes stalked her– an environment like this brought out the animal in people. As such, they quickly succumbed to a nonlethal dose of her poison.
Voices fell; bodies dropped. This would be a private affair.
If that hadn’t been enough of an entrance, she made sure Katsu heard the click of her boots as she stepped into the cell’s doorway. “Hope I didn’t keep you waiting too long.”
| Tenshi | Kumogakure no Sato | Genin | Team 5 |
| Kusanagi, Hanayo | Konohagakure no Sato | Jounin | Team Kusanagi |
| Bandō | Whirlpool Country | A-Rank | Merchants of Death |
The Scientist and the Subject
The sound of metal clanking against stone was unmistakable. Even more so was the sound of boots against solid floors. As the shouting and jeering got louder the feral woman knew something was happening. Not ordinary guard elicited this response from the gathered dumbasses. No, this was either some pretty little thing they wanted to tear into, or someone they truly hated. As the sound began to suddenly die down the answer became more clear. The time had finally come to get answers.
For the briefest of moments Katsu looked at the clothing provided, considered covering herself in a show of good faith. Weapons may be abandoned but the titan was a weapon, and this girl knew that. While the fabric would sport no real hinderance to her transformation it'd give the air of civility. Besides, Katsu had already displayed her story, and she was requesting this meeting. There was little to gain but comfort in nudity. To that she claimed the large shirt and threw it on. It was slightly too small and barely covered her belly. The pants came next. Once again a bit small, uncomfortable. They squeezed her legs and cut into the waist. Perhaps they'd have left some men's wear for someone her size? Didn't matter, the choice was made.
The sound of people hitting the floor came next. There was no indication of violence. This was a private meeting? Or were they systematically shutting the others off like some switch? No sensory input betrayed this. But whoever it was got closer, and Katsu realized there was still a weapon in play. Quickly she opened her mouth and spilled the pink demons into her hands. The relief of being able to finally breath comfortably offset some of the discomfort from clothing. The monsters were stored away in a box that'd been filled with mulch and refuse, specific for the creatures during such meetings.
The voice removed any doubt of who it was. Indeed the uproar had been at both. Katsu wiped her chin and found the chair, grabbing it to place near the table as she spoke. "Longer than I wanted. But fact you came means you're just as curious as I am. Fact you shut up the others means you want me alone too. Frankly I wouldn't have it any other way. The door opens from that side, come in and have a seat. I think we both have some shit to say."
For the briefest of moments Katsu looked at the clothing provided, considered covering herself in a show of good faith. Weapons may be abandoned but the titan was a weapon, and this girl knew that. While the fabric would sport no real hinderance to her transformation it'd give the air of civility. Besides, Katsu had already displayed her story, and she was requesting this meeting. There was little to gain but comfort in nudity. To that she claimed the large shirt and threw it on. It was slightly too small and barely covered her belly. The pants came next. Once again a bit small, uncomfortable. They squeezed her legs and cut into the waist. Perhaps they'd have left some men's wear for someone her size? Didn't matter, the choice was made.
The sound of people hitting the floor came next. There was no indication of violence. This was a private meeting? Or were they systematically shutting the others off like some switch? No sensory input betrayed this. But whoever it was got closer, and Katsu realized there was still a weapon in play. Quickly she opened her mouth and spilled the pink demons into her hands. The relief of being able to finally breath comfortably offset some of the discomfort from clothing. The monsters were stored away in a box that'd been filled with mulch and refuse, specific for the creatures during such meetings.
The voice removed any doubt of who it was. Indeed the uproar had been at both. Katsu wiped her chin and found the chair, grabbing it to place near the table as she spoke. "Longer than I wanted. But fact you came means you're just as curious as I am. Fact you shut up the others means you want me alone too. Frankly I wouldn't have it any other way. The door opens from that side, come in and have a seat. I think we both have some shit to say."
The Scientist and the Subject
Hanayo opened the door slowly. She said nothing at first, unsure how to greet this Katsu, but her smile flickered. The slip of her mask betrayed a mix of confusion, flattery, and a kernel of disappointment. Her sole image of Katsu was of something raw and untamed. Seeing her covered up now felt almost... vulgar. Her clothes weren’t exactly bespoke, a suspicion affirmed by the tightness, but she looked in better shape than Hanayo had left her. The jounin nodded as if deciding to appreciate the effort.
”I can’t promise us a full evening of quiet.” Hana said as she recovered. She slipped inside, catching the door with a heel to leave it cracked. “And they’re not likely to wake up in better moods.” It was the truth, though Hanayo only shared it because she didn’t want to give the impression she was staying for long.
The cold stone walls were claustrophobic for her, it must be like a kennel for the giant. She looked around, taking in what passed for decor. There was a desk, where she could picture the beast writing out the letter. The table where her host sat was smudged with dust prints. A mark that she must rarely have company, besides what sounded like insects skittering around. Hanayo stepped gingerly, praying it was just her imagination.
Hanayo pulled her own chair out and sat with legs crossed. Her eyes remained fixed on her host. The ANBU must not know what they have. If they did, they wouldn’t have dumped her here with the refuse. Nonetheless, she refused to waste what precious time they had complaining. Besides, how could she stay upset when faced with such a beaten, stray dog look. “So, you went through all this trouble to talk. You seem to have quite a lot on your mind,” She left the words hanging, inviting her to fill the silence.
”I can’t promise us a full evening of quiet.” Hana said as she recovered. She slipped inside, catching the door with a heel to leave it cracked. “And they’re not likely to wake up in better moods.” It was the truth, though Hanayo only shared it because she didn’t want to give the impression she was staying for long.
The cold stone walls were claustrophobic for her, it must be like a kennel for the giant. She looked around, taking in what passed for decor. There was a desk, where she could picture the beast writing out the letter. The table where her host sat was smudged with dust prints. A mark that she must rarely have company, besides what sounded like insects skittering around. Hanayo stepped gingerly, praying it was just her imagination.
Hanayo pulled her own chair out and sat with legs crossed. Her eyes remained fixed on her host. The ANBU must not know what they have. If they did, they wouldn’t have dumped her here with the refuse. Nonetheless, she refused to waste what precious time they had complaining. Besides, how could she stay upset when faced with such a beaten, stray dog look. “So, you went through all this trouble to talk. You seem to have quite a lot on your mind,” She left the words hanging, inviting her to fill the silence.
Last edited by Dual on Sat Feb 08, 2025 11:01 pm, edited 1 time in total.
| Tenshi | Kumogakure no Sato | Genin | Team 5 |
| Kusanagi, Hanayo | Konohagakure no Sato | Jounin | Team Kusanagi |
| Bandō | Whirlpool Country | A-Rank | Merchants of Death |
The Scientist and the Subject
"Aye." The word spoken in semblance with another land far away. "You wanted to know what made me what I am. I want to know what you did to me. As my mother would say it's a fair trade. And to show good faith I even put on this shit. Frankly I'd just as soon tear it off again and do the same to yours. But, I've been TRYING to learn control and restraint since I got here. . . Your smell makes that difficult yet here I am."
Katsu made a point of sniffing the air. The musk of caged animals assaulted her first, then the almond smell of her little beasties. However, there was another scent beneath it all, yet oh so strong. The odor of this woman was almost intoxicating. Katsu could smell the sweat and the lingering soap she used. There was the copperish spell of blood upon her still and that alone made Katsu almost salivate. The well worn fabric, though washed, still smelled of earth and oil. However, beneath even all this as if a whisp in the morning mist there was something else. Something unplaceable. It made the woman's gaze turn from one of civility to almost predatory hunger before she forced the instinct back down.
"We can do this however you want. There's no fucking way you can put me down for good. But I'd rather not suffer you trying. And these fucking walls are making sanity difficult already anyway. Last thing I'd want is to be strapped to a damned table while you penetrate and cut me up trying to figure out something you simply can't. So tell me what you did to me. And tell my why your eyes are yellow. I'll tell you what I am, and what all that comes with. Deal?"
Katsu made a point of sniffing the air. The musk of caged animals assaulted her first, then the almond smell of her little beasties. However, there was another scent beneath it all, yet oh so strong. The odor of this woman was almost intoxicating. Katsu could smell the sweat and the lingering soap she used. There was the copperish spell of blood upon her still and that alone made Katsu almost salivate. The well worn fabric, though washed, still smelled of earth and oil. However, beneath even all this as if a whisp in the morning mist there was something else. Something unplaceable. It made the woman's gaze turn from one of civility to almost predatory hunger before she forced the instinct back down.
"We can do this however you want. There's no fucking way you can put me down for good. But I'd rather not suffer you trying. And these fucking walls are making sanity difficult already anyway. Last thing I'd want is to be strapped to a damned table while you penetrate and cut me up trying to figure out something you simply can't. So tell me what you did to me. And tell my why your eyes are yellow. I'll tell you what I am, and what all that comes with. Deal?"
The Scientist and the Subject
My eyes…? Hana laughed, the sound directed as much at Katsu as at herself. She’d been a fool. Why did she jump to violence when she could have talked things out? Or maybe the ANBU had been successful in domesticating her. Either way, she’d made considerable progress. Hanayo had noticed the deep breath she took as well– proof she had some wit. So she already has a clue. “Though it is fun to tease, I guess the secret is out. It will be better if I show you.”
Hanayo stood and tugged the hem of her shirt exposing a length of smooth skin from hip to navel. At a casual glance she might have been showing off her trim frame until she turned. Just under her lower ribs, smushed against her liver, was a formless black mass that could be mistaken for a tumor… if it didn’t move. It convulsed like a heart; it was about the same size too, and pumping a web of seizing winedark veins.
“This is an artificial poison sac designed by Takeshi Fukada… an old mentor of mine. It produces a toxin known as ‘Apathy of the Lotus-Eater’ capable of subduing any target by lowering their inhibitions, leaving them in a haze of delirium until the pleasure kills them.“ Hanayo offered a close look at the cautionary formulaic markings tattoo’d in black surrounding it before dropping her shirt again and taking her seat. “Out of 18 candidates only I survi-... only I was chosen to carry his masterpiece. Now, after learning ‘control and restraint’, I can secrete that scent from my skin. It’s in my saliva, my sweat, all of me.” Then, the woman leaned in to ask a question she already knew the answer to. “So many of them die smiling that I never get an honest answer. Tell me, was it good for you?”
Hanayo stood and tugged the hem of her shirt exposing a length of smooth skin from hip to navel. At a casual glance she might have been showing off her trim frame until she turned. Just under her lower ribs, smushed against her liver, was a formless black mass that could be mistaken for a tumor… if it didn’t move. It convulsed like a heart; it was about the same size too, and pumping a web of seizing winedark veins.
“This is an artificial poison sac designed by Takeshi Fukada… an old mentor of mine. It produces a toxin known as ‘Apathy of the Lotus-Eater’ capable of subduing any target by lowering their inhibitions, leaving them in a haze of delirium until the pleasure kills them.“ Hanayo offered a close look at the cautionary formulaic markings tattoo’d in black surrounding it before dropping her shirt again and taking her seat. “Out of 18 candidates only I survi-... only I was chosen to carry his masterpiece. Now, after learning ‘control and restraint’, I can secrete that scent from my skin. It’s in my saliva, my sweat, all of me.” Then, the woman leaned in to ask a question she already knew the answer to. “So many of them die smiling that I never get an honest answer. Tell me, was it good for you?”
Last edited by Dual on Sun Feb 09, 2025 1:18 am, edited 1 time in total.
| Tenshi | Kumogakure no Sato | Genin | Team 5 |
| Kusanagi, Hanayo | Konohagakure no Sato | Jounin | Team Kusanagi |
| Bandō | Whirlpool Country | A-Rank | Merchants of Death |
The Scientist and the Subject
The revelation came with a hint of self chastising. Here Katsu was thinking it was some form of genjutsu and yet it was so much more known. With luck, the titanic woman would be able to emulate such a creation. However, she'd need to know more. She got in close to the organ and sniffed it quizzically. The scent was subtle, almost ephemeral. This thing was very well hidden unlike her own little pets. Suddenly Katsu truly meant what she had said before. She wanted to get Hanayo in a primal state, if only to observe more.
"I can think of so many things that would have done such a number on my head, but this one is exciting. Seems I'm not the only one around here with a body made for secrets." As the girl flipped around and got a bit closer than anticipated Katsu got a closer look at her face. The eyes almost glittered as if there were some energy behind them. Katsu leaned in too, locking eyes. Unlike the challenge before the beast went silent and looked through them. She analyzed the girl, not as meat but as a curiosity. She didn't back up either when the girl spoke, letting the flirtation hang for a bit. "Oh you've no idea what you did to me, my little one." She leaned in closer, keeping eye contact and smiling. She was so close as if to kiss the girl. "You've got my interest just like I got yours. Seems we both want to explore a bit, aye?" The words were slightly whispered with a threatening tone. Katsu had to focus not to lunge and take what she wanted now, but the visual of the parasite made itself manifest. The schlera of her eyes became the bright crimson once more. "How would you like me to keep my end of this bargain, sweety?"
"I can think of so many things that would have done such a number on my head, but this one is exciting. Seems I'm not the only one around here with a body made for secrets." As the girl flipped around and got a bit closer than anticipated Katsu got a closer look at her face. The eyes almost glittered as if there were some energy behind them. Katsu leaned in too, locking eyes. Unlike the challenge before the beast went silent and looked through them. She analyzed the girl, not as meat but as a curiosity. She didn't back up either when the girl spoke, letting the flirtation hang for a bit. "Oh you've no idea what you did to me, my little one." She leaned in closer, keeping eye contact and smiling. She was so close as if to kiss the girl. "You've got my interest just like I got yours. Seems we both want to explore a bit, aye?" The words were slightly whispered with a threatening tone. Katsu had to focus not to lunge and take what she wanted now, but the visual of the parasite made itself manifest. The schlera of her eyes became the bright crimson once more. "How would you like me to keep my end of this bargain, sweety?"
The Scientist and the Subject
Hanayo stifled a giggle. All this sniffing tickled, but as she was pulling away, Hanayo saw a nameless desire in Katsu’s gaze. It seemed her presence had unlocked the beast’s analytical side. Her letter expressed interest in teaching her whatever power she had, but now after seeing it, Hanayo wondered whether the beast would submit to the surgery. The manner in which she spoke of her own ‘gift’ hinted at a transformation. Something that was done to her. It gave Hanayo the hope it could be replicated. So be it. The power of death for eternal life– an even exchange.
Evidently, her words had hit their target. Hanayo watched as blood-red dyed the whites of Katsu’s eye, a murderous intent crawling behind them. She knew the beast would use threats to mask insecurity– but she didn’t miss her sudden possessiveness. It unnerved her. Only because she didn’t know what emotion it aimed to bait out. In the end, the Leaf nin would be the first break; brushing a hair aside, straightening her posture. She decided they didn’t need to be close, idly swinging a leg.
Though, admittedly, it was refreshing to be open with another. The lotus flower was usually met with disgust, condemnation, or at the very least astonished disapproval. It took effort not to spout off like a dammed river about all the toxin was capable of. She locked her lips tight; refusing sentimentality. It was that sort of softness that had almost gotten her killed in the forest. “Why else would I have come all this way?” said Hanayo, amused, spreading her arms wide, as if it were the whole naked truth. “I’m listening, Katsu.“
Evidently, her words had hit their target. Hanayo watched as blood-red dyed the whites of Katsu’s eye, a murderous intent crawling behind them. She knew the beast would use threats to mask insecurity– but she didn’t miss her sudden possessiveness. It unnerved her. Only because she didn’t know what emotion it aimed to bait out. In the end, the Leaf nin would be the first break; brushing a hair aside, straightening her posture. She decided they didn’t need to be close, idly swinging a leg.
Though, admittedly, it was refreshing to be open with another. The lotus flower was usually met with disgust, condemnation, or at the very least astonished disapproval. It took effort not to spout off like a dammed river about all the toxin was capable of. She locked her lips tight; refusing sentimentality. It was that sort of softness that had almost gotten her killed in the forest. “Why else would I have come all this way?” said Hanayo, amused, spreading her arms wide, as if it were the whole naked truth. “I’m listening, Katsu.“
| Tenshi | Kumogakure no Sato | Genin | Team 5 |
| Kusanagi, Hanayo | Konohagakure no Sato | Jounin | Team Kusanagi |
| Bandō | Whirlpool Country | A-Rank | Merchants of Death |
The Scientist and the Subject
There was a smile of glee at Katsu took leaned back a bit. "Very well. Long story made short I'm a god." Katsu let the weight of that sentence sink in the air for a moment. "No amount of cutting could give you what you want. I'd have to give it to you. There is no organ in my body like yours. It's all just me." She let a bit of pride in with that part. However, the next was spoken with pain. "It hurts like hell, sometimes. It's always uncomfortable."
Katsu looked up and put a foot on knee, pretending to relax. "Fact is there is only one other creature like me in this world and he is currently trapped inside a cunt named Shinjiro. That creature was once inside me, and when I tell you the power of a god is overwhelming. . ." She almost shivered at the remembered feeling of Vorashu's might. "It's intoxicating having such a being inside you. But he was ripped away. That was the day I died the first time." A small bit of sadness, quickly dispelled. "But what was left behind was me. A shard of that god that's molded into something different. Vorashu is the essence of adaptation and change. I've become his mirror. I've become what happens when that majesty is tainted and becomes something else. And to that end I've become a parody but no less. Bloodthirsty, hungry, and impossible to truly be rid of. Because of a god I've become a god in kind."
Katsu once again looked over Hanayo and took the time to let the words sink it. Despite the grandiose and dramatic tone the woman spoke with conviction and true belief. However, there was a manipulation going on and Katsu made it nakedly clear. "Remember when I said I wanted to tear away your civility? I want to see your naked will and determination made manifest because I made a promise when I came here. Part of that was to see the people of this land grow. Another part was to grant the truth of avoiding oblivion. I'm a god, but I don't want your submission or worship. I want to see your passion unbound, Hanayo. Because only then can I make good on that second promise. Because only if you can fight against a true monster can you tame what comes with my reality."
Katsu looked up and put a foot on knee, pretending to relax. "Fact is there is only one other creature like me in this world and he is currently trapped inside a cunt named Shinjiro. That creature was once inside me, and when I tell you the power of a god is overwhelming. . ." She almost shivered at the remembered feeling of Vorashu's might. "It's intoxicating having such a being inside you. But he was ripped away. That was the day I died the first time." A small bit of sadness, quickly dispelled. "But what was left behind was me. A shard of that god that's molded into something different. Vorashu is the essence of adaptation and change. I've become his mirror. I've become what happens when that majesty is tainted and becomes something else. And to that end I've become a parody but no less. Bloodthirsty, hungry, and impossible to truly be rid of. Because of a god I've become a god in kind."
Katsu once again looked over Hanayo and took the time to let the words sink it. Despite the grandiose and dramatic tone the woman spoke with conviction and true belief. However, there was a manipulation going on and Katsu made it nakedly clear. "Remember when I said I wanted to tear away your civility? I want to see your naked will and determination made manifest because I made a promise when I came here. Part of that was to see the people of this land grow. Another part was to grant the truth of avoiding oblivion. I'm a god, but I don't want your submission or worship. I want to see your passion unbound, Hanayo. Because only then can I make good on that second promise. Because only if you can fight against a true monster can you tame what comes with my reality."
The Scientist and the Subject
Hanayo received it all with a contemplative silence. Refusing to react when Katsu proclaimed godhood with a hint of arrogance in her tone. She didn’t let discouragement show when she realized the gift was not something tangible. She didn’t yield an ounce of sympathy, though she understood living with pain bleeding into every moment . She suppressed confusion when Katsu spoke of gods and strange names. But the words ‘adaptation and change’ stirred something in her. It was as if she were listening to Fukada’s voice again.
An odd noiselessness followed. Hanayo allowed the air to thicken. Katsu had given her more than enough to think about. She’d heard this speech before. Parts of it, anyway. Throughout it all, the green-eyed beast had portrayed herself as a benevolent, fallen god– here to show the world the truth. A way free from death, reserved only for the strongest, those who could survive some sort of crucible. But Hanayo did not see a challenge in her eyes, only sincerity.
The beast, Hanayo realized, had lost her humanity in exchange for power and accepted the cost. But there was more beneath the bloodthirsty side she struggled to tame. She’d seen it before, in short glimpses. It was like peeking between the bars of a cage. The barrier somehow made what was inside look smaller, afraid, and hungry. Would she fall that far too? The kunoichi tilted her head slightly and studied Katsu’s face, looking to see what she would become in those emerald mirrors… “A true monster? I’ll admit, I don’t understand all of what you said. But I know what it’s like to be a monster. I know the great loss and pain it causes, as you do…” the woman exhaled, slow and measured. “So, why offer this at all? Is it charity? Or are you just tired of being alone?"
An odd noiselessness followed. Hanayo allowed the air to thicken. Katsu had given her more than enough to think about. She’d heard this speech before. Parts of it, anyway. Throughout it all, the green-eyed beast had portrayed herself as a benevolent, fallen god– here to show the world the truth. A way free from death, reserved only for the strongest, those who could survive some sort of crucible. But Hanayo did not see a challenge in her eyes, only sincerity.
The beast, Hanayo realized, had lost her humanity in exchange for power and accepted the cost. But there was more beneath the bloodthirsty side she struggled to tame. She’d seen it before, in short glimpses. It was like peeking between the bars of a cage. The barrier somehow made what was inside look smaller, afraid, and hungry. Would she fall that far too? The kunoichi tilted her head slightly and studied Katsu’s face, looking to see what she would become in those emerald mirrors… “A true monster? I’ll admit, I don’t understand all of what you said. But I know what it’s like to be a monster. I know the great loss and pain it causes, as you do…” the woman exhaled, slow and measured. “So, why offer this at all? Is it charity? Or are you just tired of being alone?"
| Tenshi | Kumogakure no Sato | Genin | Team 5 |
| Kusanagi, Hanayo | Konohagakure no Sato | Jounin | Team Kusanagi |
| Bandō | Whirlpool Country | A-Rank | Merchants of Death |
The Scientist and the Subject
"A mix of reasons." Katsu answered matter of factly. "I came here looking for information on my people, my family. Shinjiro and Yoru killed me in Kiri. I came back but time had passed. I can't find them and knew Konoha had resources I didn't. I offered a bargain and making more of me was part of that trade. Considering your rank I'd imagine you know that part." The titan shifted uncomfortably in her seat, fidgeting with the restrictive clothing. "A deeper reason is because this world is filled with gods. Genma, celestials, spirits. Call them what you like but the fact remains. I make no secret I want to see the world return to it's rightful place. Not one of destruction or balance. A state of truly beautiful adaptation. I want to see all gods, myself included, truly free. Not to rule over people, but to return to their home. And if they won't then I'll make them bow to me and force them back. Because we should never be controlled or weaponized. Just like no creature should."
The air had grown a bit tenser in that moment as the titan spoke. However, the truth was spoken and Katsu would suffer the consequences of that later. After all, she had a revelation to unpack too, and the plan was very long in the making and yet still incomplete. "Arsa taught me that but it took a while for the lesson to sink in. And it'll take a very long time to make it truly come to life. Gotta take every step though, and step one is getting my people back. Step two is helping others see that reality. A life without subjugation. A home where monsters can thrive and become happy. I need to rebuild my home. The Realm of Titans. And when I look at you I see a mate in that blood. . ."
Katsu once again looked into Hanayo and scanned her. Her demeaner was just as analytical which was good. Means she was thinking it all through. If she was thinking it meant she was considering the true scope of what was on the table. Katsu didn't want to offer her unique traits to just anyone. That'd create only mindless bastards who lusted only for blood. That'd be of use to no one and more cruel than even the great beast was willing to be. But someone who already understood struggles and loss? Someone who already had a brush with the nightmares that would come and learn to master them? Yeah, that was someone worth considering.
The air had grown a bit tenser in that moment as the titan spoke. However, the truth was spoken and Katsu would suffer the consequences of that later. After all, she had a revelation to unpack too, and the plan was very long in the making and yet still incomplete. "Arsa taught me that but it took a while for the lesson to sink in. And it'll take a very long time to make it truly come to life. Gotta take every step though, and step one is getting my people back. Step two is helping others see that reality. A life without subjugation. A home where monsters can thrive and become happy. I need to rebuild my home. The Realm of Titans. And when I look at you I see a mate in that blood. . ."
Katsu once again looked into Hanayo and scanned her. Her demeaner was just as analytical which was good. Means she was thinking it all through. If she was thinking it meant she was considering the true scope of what was on the table. Katsu didn't want to offer her unique traits to just anyone. That'd create only mindless bastards who lusted only for blood. That'd be of use to no one and more cruel than even the great beast was willing to be. But someone who already understood struggles and loss? Someone who already had a brush with the nightmares that would come and learn to master them? Yeah, that was someone worth considering.
The Scientist and the Subject
When she was destroying Katsu's letter, she didn’t expect to spend that evening discussing the beast’s hopes and dreams. It was touching in a way. The beast had a heart. She’d allowed herself to be made humble, forced into a cell, tortured, all in pursuit of information about her family. That level of loyalty was admirable, no matter the reason.
‘The Realm of Titans’,’ the name thundered, spoken with conviction as if it were reality. Hanayo folded her arms, reserving judgement. These were dangerous beliefs. The Genma were weights keeping balance among the Villages, freeing even one would topple peace. Still she couldn’t shake the resemblance to someone else who saw beyond the five great nations. ‘The age of shinobi is coming to a close, there will be a time when the world cannot contain them.’ Her mentor once said. She wondered what followed, and would it be an age of gods? “I think you'll find there are many who believe as you do out in the world.“
She spoke with passion and conviction, but if Hanayo weren’t mistaken, the beast’s speech ended with a proposal. She really was lonely after all. Hanayo would admit there was something liberating about being in the company of someone more monstrous than she was. She could see her darker side without flinching, but craving more. Hanayo rubbed her side tenderly, feeling muscles tense. It was natural to be on guard. She knew freedom was never free. “That’s it then. If I pass your test, I’ll have to join you in your mission as well? You can understand my hesitation considering your last attempt failed. Why should I believe things will be different now?”
‘The Realm of Titans’,’ the name thundered, spoken with conviction as if it were reality. Hanayo folded her arms, reserving judgement. These were dangerous beliefs. The Genma were weights keeping balance among the Villages, freeing even one would topple peace. Still she couldn’t shake the resemblance to someone else who saw beyond the five great nations. ‘The age of shinobi is coming to a close, there will be a time when the world cannot contain them.’ Her mentor once said. She wondered what followed, and would it be an age of gods? “I think you'll find there are many who believe as you do out in the world.“
She spoke with passion and conviction, but if Hanayo weren’t mistaken, the beast’s speech ended with a proposal. She really was lonely after all. Hanayo would admit there was something liberating about being in the company of someone more monstrous than she was. She could see her darker side without flinching, but craving more. Hanayo rubbed her side tenderly, feeling muscles tense. It was natural to be on guard. She knew freedom was never free. “That’s it then. If I pass your test, I’ll have to join you in your mission as well? You can understand my hesitation considering your last attempt failed. Why should I believe things will be different now?”
| Tenshi | Kumogakure no Sato | Genin | Team 5 |
| Kusanagi, Hanayo | Konohagakure no Sato | Jounin | Team Kusanagi |
| Bandō | Whirlpool Country | A-Rank | Merchants of Death |
The Scientist and the Subject
"Adaptation." Katsu spoke frankly. "Someone once told me the definition of insanity was doing the same damned thing over and over again expecting a different result." Katsu folded both her legs beneath her now in the seat. "When I went to Kiri I was with a man named Aimi. He had strength in his own right but he was weak in the head. He thought he could overpower literally anything with sheer force alone. Seeing as I was the same we made for a miserable team. Fact I wasn't there for slaughter in the first place made things even worse. I had only gone to gather scrolls so my people could train others."
Katsu let the memory come to focus for a time before continuing. "I went in with an imperfect plan. I thought myself unstoppable and was proven very wrong. When Yoru betrayed me he used Raiton to lock up my body. Shinji used poison to shut me down. Only reason they could do that was because I had abandoned my original goal and instead went feral. I intend to adapt to that. It's why I wanted to know what you used. I can either mimic it or defend against it. And the first change I made was not trying to take it by force. Since it is a part of your body I could devour you like a mid day meal and make it my own. I chose this instead."
"That being said. . . no. You wouldn't be forced to follow me into this. You wouldn't be my slave or even my underling. Kiri might deal in slaves but I'd rather have mates. It's your choice if you come with me or not. You could stay here and protect your home. Or keep cutting things up to learn more. No, I offer this because I need what you have for one. But second I offer because I see you. You're driven and push in a way few others do. Most would turn tail and run at the first sight of me. Others would simply want to kill me and fail trying. But you want to study and know more. You face the demon and reflexively get excited. Tells me you could handle the downsides of my particular brand of divinity. Sure you noticed them."
Katsu let the memory come to focus for a time before continuing. "I went in with an imperfect plan. I thought myself unstoppable and was proven very wrong. When Yoru betrayed me he used Raiton to lock up my body. Shinji used poison to shut me down. Only reason they could do that was because I had abandoned my original goal and instead went feral. I intend to adapt to that. It's why I wanted to know what you used. I can either mimic it or defend against it. And the first change I made was not trying to take it by force. Since it is a part of your body I could devour you like a mid day meal and make it my own. I chose this instead."
"That being said. . . no. You wouldn't be forced to follow me into this. You wouldn't be my slave or even my underling. Kiri might deal in slaves but I'd rather have mates. It's your choice if you come with me or not. You could stay here and protect your home. Or keep cutting things up to learn more. No, I offer this because I need what you have for one. But second I offer because I see you. You're driven and push in a way few others do. Most would turn tail and run at the first sight of me. Others would simply want to kill me and fail trying. But you want to study and know more. You face the demon and reflexively get excited. Tells me you could handle the downsides of my particular brand of divinity. Sure you noticed them."
The Scientist and the Subject
Hanayo rested a fist beneath her chin. She filed away the information about Shinji and Yoru as persons of interest to look into. Threats to be aware of—not just because they used similar strategies, but because their existence alone was a risk. She was wary of any one out there with abilities like Katsu’s. The ANBU would likely be extracting any intelligence relevant to Kirigakure, but those two in particular had taught her a powerful, and necessary lesson.
At least Katsu wouldn't be forcing her into that slaughterhouse. But even if they didn’t share a dream they would share a curse. “You’ve mentioned this ‘feral’ state before. If it's as uncontrollable as you say then I admire your bravery. It isn’t easy to face the ugliness in ourselves, or to overcome it.” Hanayo tried to imagine the internal struggle. It brought back the feeling of their first meeting, so different from now. The rage had been palpable, like the pulse of a racing heart. That alone would be more than most could bear. And then there was the insatiable hunger she mentioned.
‘A mindless animal.' That's what she had named the giant, Hanayo recalled. Poor, misunderstood creature. All the odds stacked against her. Though Katsu seemed to be making strides. She hadn’t devoured her yet, only threatened to. That showed restraint. A vast improvement from the encounter in the woods.
All these flaws will become mine as well. The final reason she refused to acknowledge the attempts at flattery. She wasn’t the only one who had learned from failure. When twin flames feed off each other everything around them burns. But no matter where her heart truly lay, the two women would be bound together, at least for a moment. She needed to know all the secrets of her powers, and how to manage these ‘downsides.
Hanayo placed her hands in her lap, after noticing she was biting her nail. There was no avoiding it—one way or another, Katsu would pull her into this world. “Say I do agree…” She was slow to respond, and did so in forced monotone. “How would we proceed?”
At least Katsu wouldn't be forcing her into that slaughterhouse. But even if they didn’t share a dream they would share a curse. “You’ve mentioned this ‘feral’ state before. If it's as uncontrollable as you say then I admire your bravery. It isn’t easy to face the ugliness in ourselves, or to overcome it.” Hanayo tried to imagine the internal struggle. It brought back the feeling of their first meeting, so different from now. The rage had been palpable, like the pulse of a racing heart. That alone would be more than most could bear. And then there was the insatiable hunger she mentioned.
‘A mindless animal.' That's what she had named the giant, Hanayo recalled. Poor, misunderstood creature. All the odds stacked against her. Though Katsu seemed to be making strides. She hadn’t devoured her yet, only threatened to. That showed restraint. A vast improvement from the encounter in the woods.
All these flaws will become mine as well. The final reason she refused to acknowledge the attempts at flattery. She wasn’t the only one who had learned from failure. When twin flames feed off each other everything around them burns. But no matter where her heart truly lay, the two women would be bound together, at least for a moment. She needed to know all the secrets of her powers, and how to manage these ‘downsides.
Hanayo placed her hands in her lap, after noticing she was biting her nail. There was no avoiding it—one way or another, Katsu would pull her into this world. “Say I do agree…” She was slow to respond, and did so in forced monotone. “How would we proceed?”
| Tenshi | Kumogakure no Sato | Genin | Team 5 |
| Kusanagi, Hanayo | Konohagakure no Sato | Jounin | Team Kusanagi |
| Bandō | Whirlpool Country | A-Rank | Merchants of Death |
The Scientist and the Subject
At this Katsu sighed. "That's the part you will fucking despise." Katsu stood and pulled down her pants and discarded them before grunting. She grunted as a weapon tore open the base of her spine. It emerged slowly, that wicked blade. When it finally manifest itself fully she slowly sat back down and let her body repair itself. The dagger was draped over Katsu's shoulder as harmlessly as possible, staining the shirt with flesh blood. "You'd die to start. The shard that I am infests you completely. You become something. . . different. Even I don't fully understand it, I just know I've done it several times and it always ends the same. They die and then start moving again. Their holes close and they're always starving. It takes a lot of time to control that. Even I haven't mastered it."
A thought came to mind in an instant after she finished speaking. "But before I shove this in you or you even make a choice there's something else to consider. If you have anyone who depends on you I'd let them know what you're considering. It's a lot. Trust me it's a fucking lot to handle. And the fuckers who hold your leash will have their say. But, assuming you want to go through with it I'll give you my word." Katsu brought the weapon around slowly and gently poked the girl in the back of the neck, right at the base of the skull. "I'll make it painless as I can." When finished speaking she withdrew the weapon and once more rest it on her shoulder and let Hanayo have the floor.
A thought came to mind in an instant after she finished speaking. "But before I shove this in you or you even make a choice there's something else to consider. If you have anyone who depends on you I'd let them know what you're considering. It's a lot. Trust me it's a fucking lot to handle. And the fuckers who hold your leash will have their say. But, assuming you want to go through with it I'll give you my word." Katsu brought the weapon around slowly and gently poked the girl in the back of the neck, right at the base of the skull. "I'll make it painless as I can." When finished speaking she withdrew the weapon and once more rest it on her shoulder and let Hanayo have the floor.
The Scientist and the Subject
Never mind what she had expected as Katsu dropped her pants, the sight of the blade- froze her. As she explained the ritual, Hanayo felt a familiar tremor approach. She wet her lips, watched the beast watch her. She spoke with a disturbing sincerity. During their brief time together, she had been honest about who and what she was. Admittedly, she left very little concealed, but even half-naked, Hanayo still regarded her as someone worthy of esteem. As someone who kept her promises, she hoped.
Katsu brought the blade’s point along the curve of her neck. It tickled, but she didn’t move. She’d been motionless ever since Katsu said the word ‘die’. This hesitation had paralyzed her only once before. The night she prepared for her surgery. A moment full of nervous excitement, like stifling a laugh shared between friends. ’Nine lives.’ It had been an inside joke among the Medical Corps. The only explanation for how she always seemed to escape consequences. They were with her the day the operation and were their last words of encouragement. Years had passed, but she still remembered their smiling faces before the drugs took her under and they vanished forever. If I had nine then... I must have a few left.
Hanayo had considered it all. The risks, the reward, escaping, even bargaining– but gods were serious when it came to their sacrifices. She stood up before self-preservation could stop her. ‘Those with no past to look back on, can only turn towards the future.’ she thought. Marching towards the blade was like wading through quicksand. The giant appeared to grow before her eyes while she shrank until Katsu towered over her. “The last time someone told me that they’d make it painless. I woke up all alone in a dark room, breathing through a tube forced so deep down my throat I couldn’t scream… I stayed like that for six hours.“ She said, wrapping a hand around the back of Katsu’s neck. “Not again. I have your word?” if she gave her that final reassurance Hanayo would tighten her grip and draw her into a kiss.
“My arrangements have been made.” Hanayo whispered as they parted, rushing a prayer off her lips. She had no illusions about what came next, but if she was to surrender her life, she would do it on her terms. She turned, closed her eyes, and swept her hair aside to make for an easier target. “I’m all yours.”
Katsu brought the blade’s point along the curve of her neck. It tickled, but she didn’t move. She’d been motionless ever since Katsu said the word ‘die’. This hesitation had paralyzed her only once before. The night she prepared for her surgery. A moment full of nervous excitement, like stifling a laugh shared between friends. ’Nine lives.’ It had been an inside joke among the Medical Corps. The only explanation for how she always seemed to escape consequences. They were with her the day the operation and were their last words of encouragement. Years had passed, but she still remembered their smiling faces before the drugs took her under and they vanished forever. If I had nine then... I must have a few left.
Hanayo had considered it all. The risks, the reward, escaping, even bargaining– but gods were serious when it came to their sacrifices. She stood up before self-preservation could stop her. ‘Those with no past to look back on, can only turn towards the future.’ she thought. Marching towards the blade was like wading through quicksand. The giant appeared to grow before her eyes while she shrank until Katsu towered over her. “The last time someone told me that they’d make it painless. I woke up all alone in a dark room, breathing through a tube forced so deep down my throat I couldn’t scream… I stayed like that for six hours.“ She said, wrapping a hand around the back of Katsu’s neck. “Not again. I have your word?” if she gave her that final reassurance Hanayo would tighten her grip and draw her into a kiss.
“My arrangements have been made.” Hanayo whispered as they parted, rushing a prayer off her lips. She had no illusions about what came next, but if she was to surrender her life, she would do it on her terms. She turned, closed her eyes, and swept her hair aside to make for an easier target. “I’m all yours.”
| Tenshi | Kumogakure no Sato | Genin | Team 5 |
| Kusanagi, Hanayo | Konohagakure no Sato | Jounin | Team Kusanagi |
| Bandō | Whirlpool Country | A-Rank | Merchants of Death |
The Scientist and the Subject
"I'll be right here when you wake up, my pretty little thing." Katsu was shocked by the kiss that would come and recognized it as a sign of dominion. She couldn't help herself. A hand reached up and tore the woman's shirt down the back violently, tearing through the vest with ease. Her other grabbed her by the groin and pulled her in to show utter dominion as she locked lips with the girl. A hint of paradise at the panic that would come next. The blade came around as Katsu made sure to embrace the woman close, holding her against her own body. It thrust forward from the back of her neck to pierce the spine right at the base of the skull, leaving the brain in take but severing everything else. It aimed to force it's way through the woman's throat, cutting off all oxygen. Surely the panic would come, but Katsu wouldn't let go no matter what happened.
The feral woman didn't stop and did everything she could to make the movement painless as possible. The brain would remain intact, but the nervous system was to be severed completely. Knowing the feral hunger that would come next the woman made a point to remove the woman's pants as well. The transformation would be traumatic and anything in the way would be ruined anyway. As the body went limp she'd support the girl and move down to the floor, never once breaking the kiss. She'd brace the girl upon her and hold the embrace. Only went the light completely faded would Katsu break the liplock and instead rest the woman's head upon her shoulder. She let go of her ground and instead embrace her, preparing for what was to come next. Something struck the back of her mind though, a wordless hunger and intoxication, a subtle madness that betrayed the secondary intention of the woman.
"Oh you fucking cunt. Once you wake up and feed, I'm so fucking you like the animals we are."
Katsu didn't betray her oath though. She let the shard manifest in all it's malice and hunger. She let the creature take over and channel itself through her devilish stinger. She allowed the feral instinct to push through her into this woman and subfuse her entirely. It would take a good while, but the infestation was done and complete. Only then did she pull the blade from her new creation and wait for the change to come.
The feral woman didn't stop and did everything she could to make the movement painless as possible. The brain would remain intact, but the nervous system was to be severed completely. Knowing the feral hunger that would come next the woman made a point to remove the woman's pants as well. The transformation would be traumatic and anything in the way would be ruined anyway. As the body went limp she'd support the girl and move down to the floor, never once breaking the kiss. She'd brace the girl upon her and hold the embrace. Only went the light completely faded would Katsu break the liplock and instead rest the woman's head upon her shoulder. She let go of her ground and instead embrace her, preparing for what was to come next. Something struck the back of her mind though, a wordless hunger and intoxication, a subtle madness that betrayed the secondary intention of the woman.
"Oh you fucking cunt. Once you wake up and feed, I'm so fucking you like the animals we are."
Katsu didn't betray her oath though. She let the shard manifest in all it's malice and hunger. She let the creature take over and channel itself through her devilish stinger. She allowed the feral instinct to push through her into this woman and subfuse her entirely. It would take a good while, but the infestation was done and complete. Only then did she pull the blade from her new creation and wait for the change to come.
Last edited by Das Kirb on Mon Feb 10, 2025 11:06 pm, edited 1 time in total.
The Scientist and the Subject
Hanayo returned the beast’s passion with pride. The nectar must truly be intoxicating to make the beast ignore her warning. It really was in all of her. Hanayo had only intended on giving her a taste, but Katsu’s brazenness thrilled her. The giant’s grip squeezed a high moan of sweet surprise out of her, but instead of breaking the kiss that had become something more, she encouraged it with a slip of tongue. Hanayo allowed Katsu to drink as deeply of the lotus flower as she pleased, even when the muscles tightened, and her strong arm pulled back.
Deep breath in… Fractured memories crashed through her skull. The crunching of red tinged bone and cartilage. Flickering X-rays of severe cranial trauma. Flashes from scenes of blood splattered emergency rooms. Mangled bodies reduced to meat. A flatline. The aftermath of violence.
Out… A chill traced down her spine as even these images faded. Hanayo was left falling through shadows. Clinging to the same phantom feeling she had whenever she passed by graveyards, decrepit shrines, or white sheets thrown over still bodies. She’d brushed shoulders with death many times before. She braced herself. When wandering on the path between life and death, one must be prepared to meet with ghosts
Again… She woke up laying on an operating table. Fukada was there; standing under a halo of dingy light bulbs. ‘We don’t have much time, Hana.’ She tried to throw herself at him but her body refused. ‘But we’re going to make this painless for you, deep breaths, in and out, and when you wake up… You’ll be ‘a masterpiece.' She was surrounded by smiling faces. A smile she shared as they placed the mask over her mouth. She tried to scream but it turned into an intake of breath. And the shadows took her again. Nine lives. They had tried to kill her. Used her body in their experiment then abandoned it. Her and seventeen others. The hurt was unbearable; she would never reach them from here. She'd fall forever. All she could do was endure. But the hate cradled her. The rage—hot, seething—lifted her from the darkness.
Breathe In… Her first breath rushed in before the hole in her throat fully closed– a strangled gasp. It was enough to get her heart drumming again. Her tear-stung eyes burned. Why did she taste copper on her tongue? She felt her nose– painless. Her hands came away sticky, red and wet. They were trembling as her eyes brought them into focus, then she glimpsed her bare chest smeared with her own blood.
Out… The woman let out a shivering exhale, practically hyperventilating to keep from screaming. Raw terror rising, her brain fired warning signals, but nothing was wrong. As her lungs fought to fill with air, she tried to ground herself. She was here. In a dungeon of stone. She was alive. Vividly so. Cold prickled every nerve along her slender legs. She was… naked. Instinctively, Hanayo curled towards the warm body beside her. Any feelings of shame were ignored, she was no longer thinking, only responding. Nuzzling her bloody face against Katsu as if she were cozying up to a fire. Hanayo didn’t know whether she’d been stripped for the beast’s pleasure or her own, but relished in this new love for the sensation of flesh on flesh.
“I don’t…” Hanayo’s lips brushed against Katsu’s neck leaving traces of red. She fought the impulse to bite it. The hunger gnawed through her. A shameful weakness, even the sounds and stench of the prisoners above stirring made her lightheaded. She tried to resist it, digging her nails digging into her giant, but she needed something between her teeth. So, this is what it feels like to be you. “I don’t think I can be here any longer.”
Deep breath in… Fractured memories crashed through her skull. The crunching of red tinged bone and cartilage. Flickering X-rays of severe cranial trauma. Flashes from scenes of blood splattered emergency rooms. Mangled bodies reduced to meat. A flatline. The aftermath of violence.
Out… A chill traced down her spine as even these images faded. Hanayo was left falling through shadows. Clinging to the same phantom feeling she had whenever she passed by graveyards, decrepit shrines, or white sheets thrown over still bodies. She’d brushed shoulders with death many times before. She braced herself. When wandering on the path between life and death, one must be prepared to meet with ghosts
Again… She woke up laying on an operating table. Fukada was there; standing under a halo of dingy light bulbs. ‘We don’t have much time, Hana.’ She tried to throw herself at him but her body refused. ‘But we’re going to make this painless for you, deep breaths, in and out, and when you wake up… You’ll be ‘a masterpiece.' She was surrounded by smiling faces. A smile she shared as they placed the mask over her mouth. She tried to scream but it turned into an intake of breath. And the shadows took her again. Nine lives. They had tried to kill her. Used her body in their experiment then abandoned it. Her and seventeen others. The hurt was unbearable; she would never reach them from here. She'd fall forever. All she could do was endure. But the hate cradled her. The rage—hot, seething—lifted her from the darkness.
Breathe In… Her first breath rushed in before the hole in her throat fully closed– a strangled gasp. It was enough to get her heart drumming again. Her tear-stung eyes burned. Why did she taste copper on her tongue? She felt her nose– painless. Her hands came away sticky, red and wet. They were trembling as her eyes brought them into focus, then she glimpsed her bare chest smeared with her own blood.
Out… The woman let out a shivering exhale, practically hyperventilating to keep from screaming. Raw terror rising, her brain fired warning signals, but nothing was wrong. As her lungs fought to fill with air, she tried to ground herself. She was here. In a dungeon of stone. She was alive. Vividly so. Cold prickled every nerve along her slender legs. She was… naked. Instinctively, Hanayo curled towards the warm body beside her. Any feelings of shame were ignored, she was no longer thinking, only responding. Nuzzling her bloody face against Katsu as if she were cozying up to a fire. Hanayo didn’t know whether she’d been stripped for the beast’s pleasure or her own, but relished in this new love for the sensation of flesh on flesh.
“I don’t…” Hanayo’s lips brushed against Katsu’s neck leaving traces of red. She fought the impulse to bite it. The hunger gnawed through her. A shameful weakness, even the sounds and stench of the prisoners above stirring made her lightheaded. She tried to resist it, digging her nails digging into her giant, but she needed something between her teeth. So, this is what it feels like to be you. “I don’t think I can be here any longer.”
Last edited by Dual on Tue Feb 11, 2025 1:47 pm, edited 1 time in total.
| Tenshi | Kumogakure no Sato | Genin | Team 5 |
| Kusanagi, Hanayo | Konohagakure no Sato | Jounin | Team Kusanagi |
| Bandō | Whirlpool Country | A-Rank | Merchants of Death |
The Scientist and the Subject
Katsu held the girl tightly and felt the venom rushing through her. It damn near suffocated her ability to think as her mind was already growing foggy. As the convulsions would slowly die down Katsu made an effort, an excruciating one, to summon forth her wings. It was nearly impossible for the woman to keep herself from going insane right then and there. The exertion was foreign still and she'd not reclaimed her ability to resist it fully. The great appendages would slowly manifest and the floor would be soaked in blood from both Hanayo and Katsu. However, as it finished the two mighty wings would flap as best they could in the confined space. They were brought around to act as blankets for the girl, holding her tight and restraining as best as possible. In the mean time she yelled out over the air, there would still be one that knew exactly what was going on. One who could prevent a problem now.
"Ookami! We need out of here now. When she wakes up we will need to hunt. The faster you get us to a forest or stream or anywhere where your people are far away the better. I'll take it from there. If that doesn't work, yard with those on death row."
The black robed man with blue mask simply turned a corner and he was at the cell door. It opened and in he stepped wordlessly. Katsu could feel his judgmental eyes on her and simply pulled the girl closer as she began to stir. She embraced the woman and did everything she could to comfort her, but the madness was setting in and it was plainly visible. Ookami would kneel down as Hanayo would press up against Katsu and the feral woman would make an effort to fight back the hunger that came forward. With a Kai, the pair had been whisked away, deposited in a clearing beneath the stars. Surely the elder ANBU was still nearby, but this was their hunting grounds.
"Hanayo, you need to eat. To eat we need to hunt. Get up, we're going hunting."
"Ookami! We need out of here now. When she wakes up we will need to hunt. The faster you get us to a forest or stream or anywhere where your people are far away the better. I'll take it from there. If that doesn't work, yard with those on death row."
The black robed man with blue mask simply turned a corner and he was at the cell door. It opened and in he stepped wordlessly. Katsu could feel his judgmental eyes on her and simply pulled the girl closer as she began to stir. She embraced the woman and did everything she could to comfort her, but the madness was setting in and it was plainly visible. Ookami would kneel down as Hanayo would press up against Katsu and the feral woman would make an effort to fight back the hunger that came forward. With a Kai, the pair had been whisked away, deposited in a clearing beneath the stars. Surely the elder ANBU was still nearby, but this was their hunting grounds.
"Hanayo, you need to eat. To eat we need to hunt. Get up, we're going hunting."
The Scientist and the Subject
“Beautiful,” she whispered as the leathery wings sprouted from her protector’s back. Days ago those same wings almost skewered her, now she was being safeguarded by them. It was astonishing how life could change. Katsu’s tight grip on her too, even after sipping the lotus flower she wasn’t hurting, but holding her… It wasn’t a disagreeable sensation.
Her nose twitched. A new scent. A man. She peeked through Katsu’s wings, her slitted eyes recognizing the mask. The ANBU from the forest fire. It took only a moment for Hanayo’s animal brain to decide he was someone she wouldn’t mind hurting, but before she could move a muscle, he freed them and vanished.
“Hunt,” she pronounced slowly. Her jaw still felt unfamiliar. She struggled with her own body, wrenching free from Katsu’s hold to let the night touch her skin. From crawling, she worked her way up and managed a few steps on two wobbly legs. She was relearning fine motor skills surprisingly fast for someone who had their nervous system severed moments ago. Her toes sank into dirt as she stopped before the wall of trees and gazed up with fresh eyes. The stars had never looked brighter. The sky had never seemed so open. So empty.
She would need a feast to fill the emptiness in her stomach. Katsu proved she could eat anything. Animals, cooked or raw, grass, even bugs. But eating would only satisfy one desire. Like the sky above, a greater emptiness had opened in her. A lust which always existed, unexpressed until the shard awakened it. She used her forearm to wipe the blood dribbling down her chin and laughed madly to herself. After years of sacrifice and study, Hanayo had found the secret of immortality, she felt the power in her veins. And she wanted more. She needed more.
At that moment, Hanayo believed she fully understood Katsu. The instinct that drove her to violence and told her to war with the world. “Yes, we’ll hunt,” she said, gaining strength in her voice. "I want you..." She turned towards the woman, drinking in her shape. She took a step closer, a spell behind the hunger drawing her near. "...to show me how."
Her nose twitched. A new scent. A man. She peeked through Katsu’s wings, her slitted eyes recognizing the mask. The ANBU from the forest fire. It took only a moment for Hanayo’s animal brain to decide he was someone she wouldn’t mind hurting, but before she could move a muscle, he freed them and vanished.
“Hunt,” she pronounced slowly. Her jaw still felt unfamiliar. She struggled with her own body, wrenching free from Katsu’s hold to let the night touch her skin. From crawling, she worked her way up and managed a few steps on two wobbly legs. She was relearning fine motor skills surprisingly fast for someone who had their nervous system severed moments ago. Her toes sank into dirt as she stopped before the wall of trees and gazed up with fresh eyes. The stars had never looked brighter. The sky had never seemed so open. So empty.
She would need a feast to fill the emptiness in her stomach. Katsu proved she could eat anything. Animals, cooked or raw, grass, even bugs. But eating would only satisfy one desire. Like the sky above, a greater emptiness had opened in her. A lust which always existed, unexpressed until the shard awakened it. She used her forearm to wipe the blood dribbling down her chin and laughed madly to herself. After years of sacrifice and study, Hanayo had found the secret of immortality, she felt the power in her veins. And she wanted more. She needed more.
At that moment, Hanayo believed she fully understood Katsu. The instinct that drove her to violence and told her to war with the world. “Yes, we’ll hunt,” she said, gaining strength in her voice. "I want you..." She turned towards the woman, drinking in her shape. She took a step closer, a spell behind the hunger drawing her near. "...to show me how."
| Tenshi | Kumogakure no Sato | Genin | Team 5 |
| Kusanagi, Hanayo | Konohagakure no Sato | Jounin | Team Kusanagi |
| Bandō | Whirlpool Country | A-Rank | Merchants of Death |
The Scientist and the Subject
Katsu shook her head violently as the venom rushed through her veins. It threatened to overwhelm her at the earliest possible chance but the titan remained in full control. She NEEDED to stay in control. The bloodlust and hunger was a powerful tool, the madness of ready conflict and the amplified urge to surrender to baser instinct. . . it had it's purpose. However, another had been sired and needed a guiding hand. And the madness would only push them both into a rampage that'd end in too many bodies to explain. After she had mastered herself Katsu got to her feet and looked at Hanayo with a smile.
"Of course." The titan stepped closer and laid a hand on the woman's shoulder. "Intoxicating isn't it? I bet right now you're seeing the world for the first time. Tasting it and smelling it differently. I stripped you of everything so you can embrace it. No tools, no armor. Just you, just like me. . . Enjoy it for now. Move and flex. You're still strong and can do whatever you need too. Smell the air and find all the little things. I'll be here. For the first time in your entire fucking life let instinct truly move you."
"Of course." The titan stepped closer and laid a hand on the woman's shoulder. "Intoxicating isn't it? I bet right now you're seeing the world for the first time. Tasting it and smelling it differently. I stripped you of everything so you can embrace it. No tools, no armor. Just you, just like me. . . Enjoy it for now. Move and flex. You're still strong and can do whatever you need too. Smell the air and find all the little things. I'll be here. For the first time in your entire fucking life let instinct truly move you."
The Scientist and the Subject
Hanayo swayed, unfocused, lost in sensation. The giant’s heavy hand on her shoulder helped to ground her. It still took effort to focus, but once she could every word sank in like fangs. She listened close to Katsu, the woman who had shattered her, and stripped her down to nothing. All to remake her as more than she’d ever been before.
Hanayo’s heart dropped in disappointment that Katsu would not be joining her– a feeling of longing that surprised even her. ‘Let instinct truly move you.' Instinct told Hanayo to take the titan by the neck again. Kiss her. Devour her. Take her as prey and predator all at once. Then she saw the truth in Katsu’s red ringed eyes, trembling with restraint. The beast would be lost to the waking world soon. This night would be hers alone.
“Thank you, Katsu,” the woman said with reverence and showed her teeth in a true smile.
For all her life, Hanayo had bound herself to a world of order, but now she shed those chains. She was free from law, free from the past, free from death.
She was reborn.
The fledgling hunter rolled her shoulders, testing the movement, feeling her body obey in ways it never had before. She stretched her fingers, watching them flex, slick with drying blood. Eyes flashing toward the trees. She breathed in, slow and deep. The scent of damp soil and fresh blood curled in her nostrils, each note richer than the last. The forest was teeming with prey. Hunger filled her with purpose. She took a slow step forward, then another. A sudden bound, she flew into sky, letting the night air wrap around her bare skin.
The moon and stars and an old bat bore witness to a night she would only remember in flashes. There was blood. There was laughter. Fire and shadows. And a mad-drunk howl echoing until dawn.
Hanayo’s heart dropped in disappointment that Katsu would not be joining her– a feeling of longing that surprised even her. ‘Let instinct truly move you.' Instinct told Hanayo to take the titan by the neck again. Kiss her. Devour her. Take her as prey and predator all at once. Then she saw the truth in Katsu’s red ringed eyes, trembling with restraint. The beast would be lost to the waking world soon. This night would be hers alone.
“Thank you, Katsu,” the woman said with reverence and showed her teeth in a true smile.
For all her life, Hanayo had bound herself to a world of order, but now she shed those chains. She was free from law, free from the past, free from death.
She was reborn.
The fledgling hunter rolled her shoulders, testing the movement, feeling her body obey in ways it never had before. She stretched her fingers, watching them flex, slick with drying blood. Eyes flashing toward the trees. She breathed in, slow and deep. The scent of damp soil and fresh blood curled in her nostrils, each note richer than the last. The forest was teeming with prey. Hunger filled her with purpose. She took a slow step forward, then another. A sudden bound, she flew into sky, letting the night air wrap around her bare skin.
The moon and stars and an old bat bore witness to a night she would only remember in flashes. There was blood. There was laughter. Fire and shadows. And a mad-drunk howl echoing until dawn.
| Tenshi | Kumogakure no Sato | Genin | Team 5 |
| Kusanagi, Hanayo | Konohagakure no Sato | Jounin | Team Kusanagi |
| Bandō | Whirlpool Country | A-Rank | Merchants of Death |