[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Shinobi x Zao

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ShinobiTruth
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by ShinobiTruth » Tue Nov 05, 2019 2:36 am

The Land of Pebbles was a country truly scarred and deformed by the impunities of man against their fellow being. Despite the last great war occurring nearly a century ago, this land and its people had struggled to restore it to its previous glory, many of the natural wonders of this now barren place having long since been destroyed. Its people had to learn how to survive, how to adapt, how to be strong, more-so than most other minor countries. Their samurai were renowned for their resilience, passed down in the Kenjutsu style known as Toryu. Though they did not have the blessings of chakra, like the Five Great Nations, the people of the Land of Pebbles demanded respect and admiration from those around them merely by their example.

These thoughts and more flowed through Hijikata's mind as he walked a lonely path toward a bustling village near the western border of the country. He'd been meaning to take the opportunity to travel and learn more of the sword by studying and mastering the five traditional Kenjutsu styles. Hiji hoped that, through such mastery, he would have more experience and power that he could further invest in the creation of the Hiten School. Though he was a teacher of the sword, there was still plenty he did not yet know of the sword. Even in his preferred style, Iaido and Battojutsu, he had much to learn. He would not enter the dojos of this land foolishly expecting to be paid homage as he might have received in his homeland, the Grass Country. Nay, he would arrive and submit himself as a student, well aware of how little he knew of the sword. Those who think they know everything can learn nothing... but those who admit they know nothing can learn something.

Despite his focus on learning the sword, he'd had much to think about over the course of the past weeks. His meeting with the young kunoichi Tsubaki had forced the rurouni, who had once been so resolute in his heart in hating everything relating to shinobi, to seriously reconsider his stance on the matter. He'd only ever known shinobi to be capable of wanton destruction before, and they still were certainly capable of that. But his arrogance and vile hatred had been laid bare before him as he'd worked alongside her, protecting those critically injured villagers and Tsubaki as she worked to heal them. It was difficult to immediately come to terms with something that so starkly questioned your fundamental beliefs, and even for as much as he knew he needed humility, he had to work diligently to cast out the anger he'd had for shinobi for all these years and allow that space in his heart to be purified and filled with something more beneficial. He wasn't sure what, yet, but he fervently hoped his pursuit of the sword would further refine his soul to attain new levels of peace and serenity.

Walking into the lively village, Hijikata worked his way toward the town's main attraction, a restaurant and hotel. He'd already walked a considerable distance, and he would need rest before he could continue his journey into the wilderness. He also had to admit that a bit of food would not be wholly unwelcome. Being escorted by a host to the only free table in the back of the restaurant, sitting in his own booth, Hijikata set his swords to his side and pulled out the posted request for hire. Scanning the words, it seemed a fine proposition to both earn some money and also test himself against other warriors. It would be an excellent test of how much he had grown.

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Zao
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by Zao » Tue Nov 05, 2019 10:28 pm

Walking in only a few minutes behind the man was a rather tired, dirty looking traveling whom stood out in a crowd for a few different reasons. The first being that he was a bit tall and when one added the spiky brown or reddish brown hair of his it made for the man to appear even taller than he actually was. If that wasn't enough when one looked at the sleeveless attire that the swordsman in training was wearing they see that he was skin and bone, not even an ounce of muscle appeared to be on the man's body. He simply looked like someone that couldn't even lift a pale of water let along draw a sword, but against what passer-by might say or even see that caused them to question the man was a pair of hefty looking machete that were the young man's preferred weapons.

Though one couldn't see the blades, each had a small nick out of their blades from his quick fight in the Star country festival where the Konoha nin had soundly beaten him after only being able to land one solid blow on the muscle bound man. Even after the fight and the man's eagerness to somewhat be friends the man felt himself only wishing to move away from the shinobi in this world. There was something stirring within the man, like a form of darkness or hatred that he simply wasn't able to overcome at this time. Would it dissolve and one day fade away or fester and cause for the swordsman to serve down the path of no return was unknown at this point in time, after taking a man's life the swordsman couldn't help but question things that he'd learned up to this point in his life.

What made things a bit harder was that he was unable to find any information about his master whom had disappeared, as though he had completely vanished from the human world without leaving behind even a single trace or clue. It was something that was weighing heavy on Sato who felt like he no longer had anyone to help guide him through his quest to become a powerful and renowned swordsman with the Frog man gone. Shaking his head as he took a left that led him through the doors of the hotel he reached into his dirty blouse and removed a notice which he'd gotten from a man at the festival, the family he worked for was hiring swordsman to help them defend their family heritage. Though Sato wasn't normally someone who went around and was the shining knight there to help out everyone he met it didn't sound like a terrible cause...and!!! They were paying.

Money was something that he was indeed low on at nearly all times, luckily he'd been able to make a few good bets on the fights during the festival and made enough money to continue traveling and training. Though today he needed rest and eat something as the long trip and simple dry rations were barely enough to live on and coming from a family of cooks he couldn't help but wish to eat a decent meal. Though to his dismay he would find that someone had just taken the last open table in the restaurant, "Really? Man, I have always have some terrible luck." Sato couldn't help but sigh out loud as the greeter told him the bad news, but he'd walked this far he could wait a little bit for a table to open up so that he could actually enough a well cooked meal before moving on.
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Tsukino Hisato - Kiri Chuunin - Seven Swordsman Dagger

Saisuko Zao - Suna Bannin - Spirit Weapon Saint

Kyōhō Ken - The White Snake Sage - S Rank Assassin/Bounty Hunter

Aburame Hisato S-rank Mn / Inactive

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Inactive/Dead

Arashiyama Ning - Kumo Chuunin - Weilder of the Ghost Spear

Yami Kasai - Mizukage - The Black Reaper - DEAD

Genso - Elemental Crafting Shaman - A Rank Monk - Inactive

Aburame Akiro - Konoha Jounin - ANBU Member - Inactive

Hyōryū -- Suna S-Rank / Dead / Used as Inheritance.

Xi - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Sato - A Rank, "The Cleaving Swordsman " / Inactive

Akujin - Konoha Genin, Art Ninjutsu Guy / Inactive

Toukai Touma - Kiri Genin / Inactive

Arashiyama, Toushi - Kumo Bannin / Dead

Hitachiai - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Ji Ning - Iwa Genin / Inactive

Naegi, Chin - A-rank MN / Inactive







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ShinobiTruth
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by ShinobiTruth » Tue Nov 05, 2019 11:00 pm

Hijikata had just sat down before the hostess went to tend to the next person who'd come in just a few moments before him. A warrior himself, Hijikata did not allow others to enter into a room without him taking notice of them if he could help it. What he saw was a most curious sight. Wearing a black sleeveless shihakusho and a white patterned haori, the tall, spiky-haired gentleman seemed down on his luck. He found his choice of weapons quite curious. Two rather blocky-looking machetes, instruments more well-suited to a farmer than a warrior perhaps, hung from his waist. All of these features, combined with his lanky stature and travel-weary demeanor, combined to make an interesting fellow. There was also a glint in his eyes that Hijikata couldn't quite place from so far away, but it was there. Taking a moment to meditate and give a short prayer to the spirits for blessing, Hijikata called the hostess over. "I do not have anyone that I am expecting to dine with. If the gentleman is amenable and is willing to pay for his own food, I'm more than willing to share my table with him," the soft-spoken teacher offered, setting his teacup down on the small table, sitting near-perfectly on his knees on the cushion in the elevated booth.

Once he spoke to the hostess, he would not look up again until either she came back with a resolution or he walked over. If the gentleman decided to accept the offer, he offer a courteous bow and a smile, motioning to the empty space to his left. "Good day, fellow traveler. I will not stain my honor by insisting on a preference for solitude that would leave a kindred soul in want. Please, take a seat, if you wish," Hiji stated. His new acquaintance would decide where this went next.

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Zao
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by Zao » Wed Nov 06, 2019 12:10 am

"Hmm?" The lanky figure that perhaps could be considered to look as much like some sort of farmer than a traditional swordsman or samurai had just turned around looking for a place to set down outside of the restaurant in order to wait just as he heard the sound of a young man calling over to the hostess he'd just spoken with. She glanced back and forth at the two men, shrugging her shoulders she walked back over to where Sato was quietly waiting still taking in the words from the unknown but friendly man. "I suppose that's okay." After a couple moments of silently thought that left a bit of an awkward pause between the two for a few seconds he spoke out in agreeance.

Normally he probably would have just refused, but at this time he made a comfort based decision and decided that food was of the top priority for him at the moment, though he'd try not to disturb the friendly gesture from the man. With the thin man in agreement the pair walked over and Sato thought her as she disappeared to get some tea for him as well now. Carefully removing his two thick bladed machete weapons from either hip he moved to the table and set down the weapons as he sat at the small booth, a bit of a tight squeeze for the lanky figure but he made it work. "Thank you for your kind gesture."

His hands came together in the gesture of a traditional martial salute with his right cupped inside the left hand now, respectfully gesturing to the man as he spoke the thanks out loud with his soft-spoken voice now. His grey eyes glancing at the sword that had been propped up against the edge of the table as he briefly compared the weapon with his own before bringing his attention back onto his new comrade. The mention of being a fellow traveler allowed for Sato to put together that this man must be much like himself, some sort of wandering swordsman, perhaps just someone looking to temper themselves in hopes of growing stronger and sharping their instincts. "It is nice to meet another traveler along this rough road. What brings you to this part of the world?" Before meeting Fuhen he'd never left Dragon country, but thanks to that man he'd been afforded the opportunity to travel to many places and experience different people, cultures, and beliefs.
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Tsukino Hisato - Kiri Chuunin - Seven Swordsman Dagger

Saisuko Zao - Suna Bannin - Spirit Weapon Saint

Kyōhō Ken - The White Snake Sage - S Rank Assassin/Bounty Hunter

Aburame Hisato S-rank Mn / Inactive

Old CharactersShow
Inactive/Dead

Arashiyama Ning - Kumo Chuunin - Weilder of the Ghost Spear

Yami Kasai - Mizukage - The Black Reaper - DEAD

Genso - Elemental Crafting Shaman - A Rank Monk - Inactive

Aburame Akiro - Konoha Jounin - ANBU Member - Inactive

Hyōryū -- Suna S-Rank / Dead / Used as Inheritance.

Xi - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Sato - A Rank, "The Cleaving Swordsman " / Inactive

Akujin - Konoha Genin, Art Ninjutsu Guy / Inactive

Toukai Touma - Kiri Genin / Inactive

Arashiyama, Toushi - Kumo Bannin / Dead

Hitachiai - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Ji Ning - Iwa Genin / Inactive

Naegi, Chin - A-rank MN / Inactive







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ShinobiTruth
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by ShinobiTruth » Wed Nov 06, 2019 1:04 am

Hijikata bowed to the newcomer, reciprocating the greeting. "You honor me with your greetings. Thank you," Hiji replied as Sato sat down. "I am Hijikata. It is a pleasure to meet you."

Hijikata had noticed the traveler pull out a scroll of some sort earlier. If he had to take a gander, much like himself, he'd been contracted to assist with settling a dispute between two villages revolving around land heritage. Such disputes in the Pebble Country, by what he had learned, were quite common, and they were effective at preventing villages, already scarce on resources, from wasting those resources by fighting each other. Hijikata still marveled at the vast differences in traditions and cultures as soon as he stepped past the borders of one land into another, the stark changes between each landscape utterly breathtaking at times. Though he lived simply and relied on hard work and the generosity of his patrons to subsist, Hijikata was also privileged to travel to many lands. Despite this, he wasn't very well known, and while eventually, he would have to remedy that situation, Hijikata was content with where he was right now.

"I am a traveling teacher of the sword, friend," he explained. "I go to places in lands where the lesser villages have no one to teach them the ways of the sword and I fill the unfortunate void for a time. I merely teach basics, so that each of my students may discover their own path in the sword, but they learn to better themselves through hard work, discipline, and humility as they progress in the sword. My reason for traveling here, however, is different. The land of Pebbles is rife with conflicts between villages over resources and land rights. I've been requested to use my skills for one such village in this situation."

Hijikata would speak his piece, but his eyes spoke that he was curious to know what his companion was traveling for as well. He suspected that he was here for similar reasons to Hiji. These disputes were really quite prolific. It was said that if you wanted to get combat experience quickly, you should sell yourself to the people of the Pebble. They would put you to work.

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Zao
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by Zao » Thu Nov 07, 2019 12:26 am

"A pleasure to meet you, Hijikata. I am Sato." The young man smiled a bit as the figure introduced himself, the man had a certain charm to his words, able to flow into speaking without thought it seemed, like a practiced habbit. While Sato hadn't ever been much of a people person before meeting his sensei. But the old frog had rubbed off on him a bit, at least in speaking to others not in the rather odd way that he had often talked that even left the junior scratching his head attempting to decipher the odd language quirks that Fuhen had. "Teacher of the sword?" This bit caused for the man's eyes to widen just slightly, with his own teacher MIA he hadn't been able to focus on improving his own sword techniques without someone to help guide him along the points in which questions arose.

Unable to answer some of these questions had been another of the reasons that the swordsman-in-training had set off to travel and see where his journey would take him, perhaps there were answers in experiencing the world that would help his swordsmanship. "Your goal sounds truly noble my friend. To empower others with the knowledge of the sword so that they may have a chance to embark upon the journey of the sword." Sato exhaled slowly as he finished his words, seeming to avoid speaking about the latter portions of the man's words about having been requested to use his skills to help solve a village's conflict. "I've heard rumors that this was true, as well. Is it getting that bad?"

As a traveler he simply replied with the information that he'd also learned through some other travelers about the state of Pebble country. Unsure if he should tell the man across from him that he was here on more or less the same mission. But with so many different villages within a decent-sized country as this it was almost impossible that the pair were headed for the same village, right?"
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Tsukino Hisato - Kiri Chuunin - Seven Swordsman Dagger

Saisuko Zao - Suna Bannin - Spirit Weapon Saint

Kyōhō Ken - The White Snake Sage - S Rank Assassin/Bounty Hunter

Aburame Hisato S-rank Mn / Inactive

Old CharactersShow
Inactive/Dead

Arashiyama Ning - Kumo Chuunin - Weilder of the Ghost Spear

Yami Kasai - Mizukage - The Black Reaper - DEAD

Genso - Elemental Crafting Shaman - A Rank Monk - Inactive

Aburame Akiro - Konoha Jounin - ANBU Member - Inactive

Hyōryū -- Suna S-Rank / Dead / Used as Inheritance.

Xi - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Sato - A Rank, "The Cleaving Swordsman " / Inactive

Akujin - Konoha Genin, Art Ninjutsu Guy / Inactive

Toukai Touma - Kiri Genin / Inactive

Arashiyama, Toushi - Kumo Bannin / Dead

Hitachiai - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Ji Ning - Iwa Genin / Inactive

Naegi, Chin - A-rank MN / Inactive







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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by ShinobiTruth » Thu Nov 07, 2019 11:27 am

Giving a nod to Sato, he took a sip of his tea. "To my understanding, these periods come and go. But the Land of Pebbles' history has been rife with conflict, Sato-kun," Hijikata explained, showing more respect than the young man was likely used to hearing with the honorific. "It is tragic, but of the whispers that I've heard traveling through this country, it used to be a place filled with verdant greenery and abundant in natural resources. Its only sin was that it rested between two of the Five Great Nations during times of war. While I can't say that all shinobi are evil, what those ones did with their chakra arts was truly heinous. They stripped the land bare, scavenging for resources and spreading wanton destruction. When man acts so blatantly out of harmony with nature and the spirits, the scars that we see on its land, its people, and its culture are the inevitable result."

His tone of voice was sad as he reflected on the grim history of this place. It was only after speaking to the more elderly, the older generation that could at least remember the stories that had been passed down, that Hiji had learned what this place had once been like. The roads were so desolate and barren that it seemed almost impossible to believe, but the words that came from their lips bore the ring of truth and conviction. When one spoke from the heart as such, it was difficult, if not impossible, to lie without the deception being detected. "Still, I admire the people's resolve. Though they do not always know their way forward, their determination never wavers. They know so long as they can put one foot forward and fight through the obstacles that stand in their way, they will arrive at a place better than where they started. Such a strong will to survive is truly admirable."

A young woman, their server, would come to take their orders, giving the conversation a brief gap. Hiji decided on a simple bowl of roast chicken, rice, and stir-fried vegetables. He'd been told that the chicken at this particular venue was quite excellent. This gap would give Sato time to ask his own questions if he had any.

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Zao
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by Zao » Fri Nov 08, 2019 12:58 am

"Rife with conflict...." Sato only silently repeated the words, perhaps the story that the figure who had recruited him to come to the aid of his home village wasn't to far fro the true. That was if the man across from him was accurate in the depiction of the country and its current state. This caused for the long, slender fingers of the swordsman's rigth hand to come up and rub his chin gently as he continued to listen as Hiji explained a bit more to him. "Shinobi..." Though he tried not to let the man across from here hear the single word, their was an obvious bit of discontent in the man and shinobi, even the one that had obviously outclassed him in the tournament still went out of his way to injury the fighter in their bout. A bit of hatred was bottled up with the wanderer and this was not even taking in the fact that he'd learned the art of using nchakra fro his master, this was a true crime in the eyes of the shinobi nations and if others found out he could become hunted because of it.

"War's are never pretty..." Sato only commented with a few words, not trying to interrupt the flow of the man across from him had while speaking, he to had heard of some of the horrible things that the shinobi had done during those wars and even he could attest to how village ninja conducted themselves just by his attendance of the last Fur country festival and the latest one in Starfall country and their festival and fighting tournment. It caused for the left hand that was just out of sight on his knee under the table between the two men to clench tightly as a deep, fuzzy part of the gentle warrior held a growing hatred for those of the great five villages. He only shook his head as the swordsman's dull looking grey eyes looked over just briefly at his weapons, the scar upon their thick metal blades caused by a shinobi, mentally he compared that with the words his new comrade was speaking aloud.

"It is good to know that people in this day and age are still able to push forward and life wholesome, worthwhile lives." The gentle smile reappeared on Sato's thin lips as they subject changed tones and returned to a bit more cheerful topic as the young waitress returned with some tea for the lanky, redish brown haired man who took it into his left hand and thanked her. After Hiji ordered he two put in for some Miso soup with some bread before turning back to his new friend. "You spoke of being a teacher of the sword. What style of swordsmanship are you from?"
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Tsukino Hisato - Kiri Chuunin - Seven Swordsman Dagger

Saisuko Zao - Suna Bannin - Spirit Weapon Saint

Kyōhō Ken - The White Snake Sage - S Rank Assassin/Bounty Hunter

Aburame Hisato S-rank Mn / Inactive

Old CharactersShow
Inactive/Dead

Arashiyama Ning - Kumo Chuunin - Weilder of the Ghost Spear

Yami Kasai - Mizukage - The Black Reaper - DEAD

Genso - Elemental Crafting Shaman - A Rank Monk - Inactive

Aburame Akiro - Konoha Jounin - ANBU Member - Inactive

Hyōryū -- Suna S-Rank / Dead / Used as Inheritance.

Xi - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Sato - A Rank, "The Cleaving Swordsman " / Inactive

Akujin - Konoha Genin, Art Ninjutsu Guy / Inactive

Toukai Touma - Kiri Genin / Inactive

Arashiyama, Toushi - Kumo Bannin / Dead

Hitachiai - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Ji Ning - Iwa Genin / Inactive

Naegi, Chin - A-rank MN / Inactive







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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by ShinobiTruth » Fri Nov 08, 2019 10:55 am

Hijikata was not idly sitting by as he told Sato what he knew of the story of the Land of Pebbles. He was watching the young man, clearly deep in thought as Hijikata's words flowed from his lips. As he had expected from most others he met, the shinobi were viewed with an air of mystery and discontent, even outright hatred. He saw such dark emotions clashing and mixing in the young man's heart through the portal of his eyes. He looked back a number of times at his own weapons, and Hiji for the first time noticed the large gashes in the blades that the young man carried. Ignorant of the tournament in which they were acquired, Hijikata surmised they were likely caused by shinobi.

"Indeed. If only men were peaceful by nature, the weapons we carry would only be horrible nightmares," he agreed solemnly. He left the statement at that, not wishing to delve into more depressing lines of conversation further.

Instead, he shifted focus back to the people. "They can be brisk and difficult to speak with at some times, but a more resilient people I've yet to meet," he commented. "I hail from the school of Iaido, though I only teach basic swordsmanship. I believed that by teaching my own style instead of focusing on the fundamentals of swordsmanship, I was denying my students their right to discover and choose their path in swordsmanship for themselves. Thus, I still spread the strength, dignity, compassion, and purpose that one can learn from the sword while respecting the free will of those I give that gift to. To impose my own belief by teaching a specific style, I would imply that a gift given can be taken back by the giver. Some perceive it as justice, but I consider it folly."

Hijikata had begun to suspect that this man, clearly a foreigner like himself, may have come here for the same reason. He even allowed himself to consider the possibility that he might be helping manage the same conflict. But it did not matter. If such was the case, then Hijikata was certain it was the will of the spirits to guide him here and guide his words. If that was the case, then this man was meant to know what school he used. He also didn't divulge everything to him, so should circumstances conspire against them and they should do battle, Hiji wasn't without options.

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Zao
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by Zao » Fri Nov 08, 2019 10:31 pm

"Maybe so my friend." Sato responded back to the man seated across from him, how strange it would be to finda world of complete peace after what he'd learned about and grew up in. Would their even be a need for samurai and swordsmen like the two of them if there was such a place or time in the future when this was the case? As he drifted in thought for a moment his eyes closed allowing him to actually consider what such a possibility would be like. But in the end he simply shook his head gently from one side to the other a single time before his distant eyes reopened and focused themselves back onto his new companion who had started to speak again.

"Iaido?" He let out a friendly questioning word, he'd only been studying swordsmanship for a short time in comparison to most and what he did know had been based on a few things that his master had taught him about the funamentals of the blade adn everything else was created after training with other swordsman. The swordsman-in-training truly didn't hail from any one style and was slowly building up his own personal style that he hoped to one day teach to others, but for now it was simply to crude and rough to even be considered the basics a style. Thus when he was able to speak to others about their own fighting styles or read about them in history books or martial instruction scrolls it continued to feet the small flame within hi soul.

The passion and devotion to helping others and combining that with his desire for the sword stirred the young man causing for a gentle smile to finally return to Sato's thin lips as he nodded in approval of the traveling swordsman's words to him now. "I believe that this is an interesting method, something similar to what my master did for me when I first became his student. He didn't spend time trying to teach me his own style which was something not fitting of my own thoughts on the blade. But I am always interested to learn about a style I've never heard of or seen before." Their conversation had shifted back on the up stroke if felt as the mood had brightened a bit now as he brought his small tea cup up for another drink as he finished speaking now.
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Tsukino Hisato - Kiri Chuunin - Seven Swordsman Dagger

Saisuko Zao - Suna Bannin - Spirit Weapon Saint

Kyōhō Ken - The White Snake Sage - S Rank Assassin/Bounty Hunter

Aburame Hisato S-rank Mn / Inactive

Old CharactersShow
Inactive/Dead

Arashiyama Ning - Kumo Chuunin - Weilder of the Ghost Spear

Yami Kasai - Mizukage - The Black Reaper - DEAD

Genso - Elemental Crafting Shaman - A Rank Monk - Inactive

Aburame Akiro - Konoha Jounin - ANBU Member - Inactive

Hyōryū -- Suna S-Rank / Dead / Used as Inheritance.

Xi - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Sato - A Rank, "The Cleaving Swordsman " / Inactive

Akujin - Konoha Genin, Art Ninjutsu Guy / Inactive

Toukai Touma - Kiri Genin / Inactive

Arashiyama, Toushi - Kumo Bannin / Dead

Hitachiai - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Ji Ning - Iwa Genin / Inactive

Naegi, Chin - A-rank MN / Inactive







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ShinobiTruth
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by ShinobiTruth » Fri Nov 08, 2019 10:56 pm

Picking up on Sato's confusion, he lifted his wakizashi and used it to explain, pushing his thumb up against the guard to momentarily unsheath a small portion of his sword as he motioned at each pertinent part with his free hand. "Yes. It is a style of swordplay that prioritizes sudden movement, speed, and reading the opponent's movements," he explained. "It's a style best suited for a traditional Katana or another similarly curved sword. By drawing the blade out of the sheath and launching an arcing slash all at once, you not only make it difficult to read the exact trajectory of the blade itself, but the timing of the attack becomes more difficult to determine as well. The entire style is predicated on this core principle, but despite that, it has survived and proven to be a formidable style of kenjutsu all its own."

Hijikata's eyes brightened to see there were others teaching the sword, not realizing the notoriety of the teacher he was referring to. "I can tell you have a great respect for your master. What is their name? I doubt I've heard of them, but perhaps I would have the privilege of meeting them in the future," Hiji asked. He used neutral terms here, as he was not so ignorant as to assume that a woman could not also be an excellent teacher of the sword.

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Zao
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by Zao » Sat Nov 09, 2019 1:56 pm

"Ah.." Sato set forward slightly, interesting in hearing about the sword style and its description from the man who was using its basics to teach those he met, embarking them on possible life of the blade if they had the aptitude for it. It sounded somewhat similar to some of the techniques he'd seen his master perform but that was only a small part of Fuhen's style which revolved around the user of multiple weapons to attack, defend, and support his style of combat. Plus there was also the weird ability he had to control his weapons without touching them which was something that still puzzled the boy and wasn't something the Frog man had ever really explained how he did this.

"It sounds truly formidable my friend, I'm not sure I've ever sparred with anyone who's used that kind of blade work before." The thin man who looked like he hadn't eaten in weeks just judging on the frail looking body of his. He was truly interested to see this swords style sometime in the future. Leaning back a bit he took another sip of the tea from the clay teacup now, enjoying the warmth of the liquid that spread out through his body allowing for him to relax more so now. His attention came back onto the man across from him as he spoke out to obtain the name of is master. "I do not believe the man was to well known, I only heard of him when he was helping to deal with a wave of problems from my homeland. His name is Iyashii Fuhen and he travels with a monk friend by the name of Gendo." The swordsman paused for a second as he thought about the Frog-like man and shook his head before turning his eye back across the table.

"He utilized a sword style involving the use of tens of blades, yet I haven't seen my sensei in some time." The brows of the young man furrowed a bit as he spoke the last part, he did worry a bit about the strange swordsman but the man was more than capable of taking care of himself. So it wasn't likely that the young man's silent worries were truly needed. Inhaling deeply he smiled. "Though I must say that he was kind of odd." Speaking again he let a light-hearted laugh out reminiscing about the strange swordsman.
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Tsukino Hisato - Kiri Chuunin - Seven Swordsman Dagger

Saisuko Zao - Suna Bannin - Spirit Weapon Saint

Kyōhō Ken - The White Snake Sage - S Rank Assassin/Bounty Hunter

Aburame Hisato S-rank Mn / Inactive

Old CharactersShow
Inactive/Dead

Arashiyama Ning - Kumo Chuunin - Weilder of the Ghost Spear

Yami Kasai - Mizukage - The Black Reaper - DEAD

Genso - Elemental Crafting Shaman - A Rank Monk - Inactive

Aburame Akiro - Konoha Jounin - ANBU Member - Inactive

Hyōryū -- Suna S-Rank / Dead / Used as Inheritance.

Xi - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Sato - A Rank, "The Cleaving Swordsman " / Inactive

Akujin - Konoha Genin, Art Ninjutsu Guy / Inactive

Toukai Touma - Kiri Genin / Inactive

Arashiyama, Toushi - Kumo Bannin / Dead

Hitachiai - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Ji Ning - Iwa Genin / Inactive

Naegi, Chin - A-rank MN / Inactive







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ShinobiTruth
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by ShinobiTruth » Sat Nov 09, 2019 2:38 pm

Hijikata's eyes widened in recognition at the name that left Sato's lips. "...Iyashii Fuhen, he who would become Daimyo of the Whirlpool, if memory serves me well?" he asked. "A man of a strange tongue and dialect? Is he the man you speak of as your sensei? Though it was many moons ago, I served as a guide for him through my homeland of Grass Country. He was set to meet with the Daimyo of my country, I believe to discuss an alliance between the two lands. I haven't the slightest where he walks now, but if it's any consolation to you, traveler, I am confident your master is alive and well. Though I am much stronger than when I was before him, I still feel that his strength would still eclipse mine even now."

Almost as if on cue, the waitress brought the men their food. "I imagine you are eager to see him, but you look famished, friend. You must gather your strength and complete the task you've agreed to so as to protect your honor. Once that task is complete, you can continue your search, your honor and body intact" Hijikata suggested, motioning toward the man's food. He knew such a revelation might compel him to immediate action, but for as long as Sato appeared to have been traveling, such would be the path of folly. It was important that he regain his strength through food and complete what he'd bound himself to by his word.

Picking up the bowl before him, Hiji partook of the rice, seasoned and colored with saffron, and began to eat. The meal was exquisite in its taste despite its simplicity.

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Zao
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by Zao » Sat Nov 09, 2019 4:40 pm

Sato couldn't help but allow for his eyes to widen slightly at the response from the stranger now. Who would have thought that his master was known in so many places? He was so far from his own home country and yet the name of the strange Frog man whom he'd studied the basics of swordsmanship from extended even this far. Exhaling slowly as the swordsman spoke about the strange tongue and dialect, there was no doubt in the young man's mind that the two of them were speaking of the same person. "Aye, that is indeed him. Those are truly the defining features of Fuhen-sama." Though he hadn't known that the old man was to become Daimyo of the Whirlpool.

Was this some sort of new revelation or perhaps he just never brought it up to the young Dragon country native, that man's personality was truly a unique one to say the least. Shaking his head a bit at least he had something to go off of after he finished his task here in order to once more start looking for the powerful swordsman. "You are right, he truly eclipsed me also. He is able to stand on even footing even against shinobi." Sato nodded in agreement with his friends words, it allowed for him to relax as the narrow shoulders seemed to drop slightly and he looked down at his food which had just arrived as the two were exchanging words. Thanking the waitress he let out a gentle smile and spoke as his right hand retrieved his eating utensils and gently lifted the bow with the other hand blowing across the hot surface.

"Let us enjoy some good food, my friend. It is a please to meet someone else who knows Fuhen-sama." The mood had definitely improved now as the man used a spoon to eat the sweet miso soup that the waitress had brought out for him. He inhaled slowly as he assessed the restaurants dish, being from a family of chefs himself, and even he nodded in approval. This restaurant truly was a great place...
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Tsukino Hisato - Kiri Chuunin - Seven Swordsman Dagger

Saisuko Zao - Suna Bannin - Spirit Weapon Saint

Kyōhō Ken - The White Snake Sage - S Rank Assassin/Bounty Hunter

Aburame Hisato S-rank Mn / Inactive

Old CharactersShow
Inactive/Dead

Arashiyama Ning - Kumo Chuunin - Weilder of the Ghost Spear

Yami Kasai - Mizukage - The Black Reaper - DEAD

Genso - Elemental Crafting Shaman - A Rank Monk - Inactive

Aburame Akiro - Konoha Jounin - ANBU Member - Inactive

Hyōryū -- Suna S-Rank / Dead / Used as Inheritance.

Xi - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Sato - A Rank, "The Cleaving Swordsman " / Inactive

Akujin - Konoha Genin, Art Ninjutsu Guy / Inactive

Toukai Touma - Kiri Genin / Inactive

Arashiyama, Toushi - Kumo Bannin / Dead

Hitachiai - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Ji Ning - Iwa Genin / Inactive

Naegi, Chin - A-rank MN / Inactive







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ShinobiTruth
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by ShinobiTruth » Sat Nov 09, 2019 4:57 pm

Hijikata simply enjoyed the food before him. He found no need to confirm Sato's assessment. They were both familiar enough with the figure to know what he was referring to. Fuhen's strength had been incredible. Though the path ahead of him was long and arduous, Hijikata hoped that he would one day be able to stand at the same level as that strange, curious man. However, he was busy enjoying his own meal. As he had hoped, the chicken he had ordered was splendid, delicious by all accounts. He had to admit that his hunger made it even more appealing, but that was one of the hidden benefits of traveling. When one had to be patient and subsist on simple dried foods and rations, the opportunities one had to experience real food became all the sweeter.

Finishing his food, Hijikata would set his money on the table for the waitress to come retrieve. Hijikata would slip his katana and wakizashi back onto his hip where they belonged. "If only such moments lasted longer," he lamented. "Yet, one must continue on his path. In what direction do you travel?" Hiji asked his table companion. He doubted they would be going to the same place, but it was always good to ask. If they were to spend more time on the road together, it would make his journey all the better.

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Zao
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by Zao » Sat Nov 09, 2019 7:29 pm

With the thoughts of his master's whereabouts pushed aside for the moment, the man was able to enjoy the miso as the pair of men each quietly ate not letting even the smallest amount of food or soup go to waste. In was delicious without a doubt and after a few minutes the delectable dish had completely disappeared as the only sound was the spoon being placed down in the bowl and the bowl being placed ever so gently down upon the fine wood table. It had been weeks without a decent meal, but it was worth it for just that one dish.

It actually made him miss his family, being in the kitchen with them and helping cook, it was a set of enjoyable memories that the man thought back upon briefly before sighing quietly to himself. The life of a swordsman wasn't an easy one but he'd chosen his path and would follow it to the very end. "Yes, it was quiet and peaceful. Something well needed after a rough journey." Almost on cue he would finish off the last cup of tea the young waitress had refilled for him and take out the money for his meal and a tip for their server now. Then lean back onto his toes and stand up as his lanky arm reached to the end of the table and retrieved the thick bladed machete style weapons from against the table's edge.

Re-positioned each so one set on each hip now Sato would turn his gaze upon the man and reply, "I'm off to a small village to the west of here myself. How about you, Hijikata?" It was rare to meet someone with whom he felt that he could relate a bit, another young swordsman. Perhaps they could travel a bit further together. If not then this would be were the two of them parted ways to continue along their own paths of the sword.
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Tsukino Hisato - Kiri Chuunin - Seven Swordsman Dagger

Saisuko Zao - Suna Bannin - Spirit Weapon Saint

Kyōhō Ken - The White Snake Sage - S Rank Assassin/Bounty Hunter

Aburame Hisato S-rank Mn / Inactive

Old CharactersShow
Inactive/Dead

Arashiyama Ning - Kumo Chuunin - Weilder of the Ghost Spear

Yami Kasai - Mizukage - The Black Reaper - DEAD

Genso - Elemental Crafting Shaman - A Rank Monk - Inactive

Aburame Akiro - Konoha Jounin - ANBU Member - Inactive

Hyōryū -- Suna S-Rank / Dead / Used as Inheritance.

Xi - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Sato - A Rank, "The Cleaving Swordsman " / Inactive

Akujin - Konoha Genin, Art Ninjutsu Guy / Inactive

Toukai Touma - Kiri Genin / Inactive

Arashiyama, Toushi - Kumo Bannin / Dead

Hitachiai - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Ji Ning - Iwa Genin / Inactive

Naegi, Chin - A-rank MN / Inactive







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ShinobiTruth
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by ShinobiTruth » Sat Nov 09, 2019 9:27 pm

Hijikata shook his head and motioned a bit more northward. "I travel to the northwest. I'm also off to a village to tend to what I hope isn't misery business," he lamented. "This appears where we part ways, Sato."

Offering his hand and forearm in a shake, he gave one last piece of sage advice. "I wish you well, Sato-kun. May the spirits guide your steps. Hold true to your honor, and do not lose yourself to the darkness of our path. Our path is fraught with danger, anger, and hate, but should we rise above those things, we leave the world better than the day before," he offered. He hadn't missed the darkness he'd seen rumbling in the young warrior's eyes earlier when they met. He likely would have conflicts and tests before him. Hiji only hoped that his words might give him more to ponder on, a safeguard to stop him from steeping his blades in blood, misery, and death.

With their parting salutations given, Hijikata would don his jingasa and would continue his journey. Hiji left wondering if he would ever meet the young man again. He hoped the spirits would guide their paths to converge again in the future.

He did not realize how quickly in the future his aspirations would be realized.

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Zao
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[Plotboard Part 1] Peace in Desolation

Post by Zao » Sat Nov 09, 2019 10:18 pm

"I see, then it has been a please meet you my friend." The young man appeared like any normal youth, a gentle smile on his face and a hint of vigor returning to his formerly dull grey eyes as he reached out to grasp the man's forearm with his hand in a warrior hand shake with the fellow swordsman before they would need to part ways and continue to their own destinations. "I will do my best. Perhaps in the future out paths may be willed to cross again." Releasing his firm grip on the man's arm he relaxed his shoulder back allowing for his thin frame to allow for him to look taller than he actually was, especially when one threw into account his spike hair.

"Have a safe journey." With a half wave from his left hand the man tugged on the strap of a small bag that he picked up as the pair moved to leave the resturant and the hotel which had contained it. Adjusting the small traveling bag that was slung cross body now he took the left fork in the road as the two paths leading to different village's veered off from one another and in a few moment neither would be able to see or hear the other. Silently though the man pondered about the hatred that he could fill stiring in his heart, but for the mean time the sage like words from Hiji had somewhat suppressed them allowing for the man to focus on helping the village of hte man who had recruited him in Starfall.
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Tsukino Hisato - Kiri Chuunin - Seven Swordsman Dagger

Saisuko Zao - Suna Bannin - Spirit Weapon Saint

Kyōhō Ken - The White Snake Sage - S Rank Assassin/Bounty Hunter

Aburame Hisato S-rank Mn / Inactive

Old CharactersShow
Inactive/Dead

Arashiyama Ning - Kumo Chuunin - Weilder of the Ghost Spear

Yami Kasai - Mizukage - The Black Reaper - DEAD

Genso - Elemental Crafting Shaman - A Rank Monk - Inactive

Aburame Akiro - Konoha Jounin - ANBU Member - Inactive

Hyōryū -- Suna S-Rank / Dead / Used as Inheritance.

Xi - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Sato - A Rank, "The Cleaving Swordsman " / Inactive

Akujin - Konoha Genin, Art Ninjutsu Guy / Inactive

Toukai Touma - Kiri Genin / Inactive

Arashiyama, Toushi - Kumo Bannin / Dead

Hitachiai - Iwa Jounin / Inactive

Ji Ning - Iwa Genin / Inactive

Naegi, Chin - A-rank MN / Inactive







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