Men of White Lies [Closed] [Graded]

[TheLacarix]

Hyuuga, SoujirouShow

Hyuuga, Soujirou

The sound of wood cracking rung through the room, as Tanaka’s head was slammed into the table, not for the first time mind. His already broken nose, burst with blood flying across the table. He whimpered out “I already told you…” no response, the man holding him down pushed his head further and further into the table almost crushing his skull against the wood. A train track of blood poured down the side of his face from his eye “Stop, stop, stop!” squirming, froth pouring from his mouth as his arms started to spasm. The table shook as though there was an earthquake. Everything stopped, no more spasms, no more screams and no more earthquake. Tanaka laid motionless, his life taken away from him as though it was nothing.

“Hyuuga, Soujirou.” Demanded the stranger, his tone however was surprisingly soft as though he was asking for a cup of tea. A young man, barely in his twenties curled up like a ball in the corner of the room. His eyes transfixed the man had just killed his boss. The young boy daren’t mutter a sound, never mind move.

“Hyuuga, Soujirou” Whispered the stranger, again in his soft polite tone. The young boy, trembling slowly staggered, using the walls for balance, it was apparent he was in shock. The Stranger did nothing, he simply stood where he was, with his hand over Tanka’s head, both motionless.

The young boy slowly, nervously walked over to his bosses desk, slipping open the drawer and heaving out a heavy ledger. Searching through it, until he found the name he was looking for.


“Hyuuga, Soujirou” he whimpered out “T-t-t-ea country…. Nor-northern outpost” The young man was stuttered, almost paralysed with fear “Target, Ito, Aimi, around 5’8”, 35 years of age, long blonde hair.” His fingers trembled as they wrapped around the ledger, the leather-bound book almost snapping his was grasping it so tightly.

“Thank you.” The stranger whispered as he turned on his heels, pushing through the door and into the busy marketplace, the clouds were low, dense and thick grey as heavy rain ripped through, pattering loudly against the ground below. Resting a black straw hat upon the top of his head, protecting himself from the downpour.

---

The Stranger had made his way to the Tea Country the rain hadn’t died down, pulling his green Haori tight around himself to shield from the cold chill of the downpour. Heading to the Northern outpost, just as the young man had described. In quite plain sight, was a blonde woman roughly 35 was standing out front, obviously on guard duties. Though she seemed quite relax, chatting to a comrade. This meant one thing only, his own target had to be nearby.

Where is he? Thought the stranger, his gaze darting around the area, searching the tower, perhaps he was at the top, just waiting to pounce? A whistling sound rang through his ears, it was so high pitched it was almost silent. His eyelid felt heavy, he felt as though he’d hadn’t slept for days. His eye watered and his mouth forced itself open as he yawned loudly, clocking sight of Aimi who had lost consciousness, slowly sliding down the wall of the outpost.

Genjutsu, had to be. Placing his hands together, The Stranger felt a warm sensation as he released himself from the genjutsu, performing Kai. His eyes flicked open, energy surged through him. Keeping his vantage point, he kept along the tree line, waiting, watching. A tall, well build man with long black hair wearing a dark purple kimono elegantly moving to his target.


Hyuuga, Soujirou At long last, the man he’d dreamt of, the man he’d been hunting for such a long time. Finally, their in his sight. Now was his chance and he wasn’t going to waste it, flinging a kunai through the air he charged after it, as it soared towards Soujirou. The Hyuuga with a fluid motion, turned around as though he was pirouetting and struck the kunai out of the air with his interesting looking katana, electricity cracked through the kunai, ricocheting it through the air. It was apparent to The Stranger that this weapon had some kind of specialised an ability, something he’d need to stay wary of.


The same whistle rang through his ears, however ever this time he wouldn’t be caught under the genjutsu not even for a moment, once again placing his hands together he released the genjutsu with the Kai technique. The Hyuuga’s large white eyes, widened even further in shock. It was apparent he wasn’t used to people being able to break out of his Genjutsu with such ease and wasn’t expecting a follow up attack, The Stranger had withdrawn a kunai and swung the pommel upwards, racking it against Soujirou’s jaw, shattering it. He yelped out in pain, but didn’t back down swinging his blade, flipping backwards The Stranger avoided the strike.


Soujirou bolted, running further north, leaving his target behind. The Stranger was puzzled why he was running north, there was nothing there but the Fire Country and neither of them could step there, it wouldn’t be a good idea. It dawned on him what the Hyuuga was doing, he was going to try and alert Mamorinuku, in hopes of losing him. He moved incredibly fast, just as fast as The Stranger, he needed to stop him from reaching the border if he managed it, it would all be over.


The Hyuuga flung himself through the air, into the forest as he neared closer and closer to the border. The Stranger desperately flung kunai trying to disrupt his footing but it was no use and he couldn’t use any large chakra attacks, otherwise it would flare up and bring attention to Mamorinuku. Edging closer and closer, it seemed as though it was going to be inevitable.


Flinging himself off a tree and landing on the ground with an almost silent thud, the Hyuuga had made it. Thinking he was protected by Konoha and the fire country, they’d be aware that they were their now. Mamaorinuku would likely be on their way, the Hyuuga cocked back his head laughing with delight as he stood firmly in the fire country. The Stranger glared at him as he weaved a flurry of hand seals, tendrils of suiton chakra poured from him, wrapping around the Hyuuga wrapping around the Hyuuga and dragging him towards The Stranger.

The Hyuuga squirmed, trying to wriggle free but the tendrils were just too powerful as he squirmed “You idiot, you’ve killed us both.” Spat the stranger, the Hyuuga’s pale eyes glared into that of the Strangers a chuckle escaped his lips “I’m already dead.” The tendrils wrapped tighter and tighter, as they wrapped around his neck. The Stranger flung his fist into the Hyuuga’s stomach, blood spat from his mouth, pouring down his chin. The tendrils clung around his neck, choking him until his consciousness left him.

Gritting his teeth, he knew he didn’t have long left, they’d be on top of him in a matter of minutes. Frantically unwinding a spool of steel wire, his hands were trembling, it was all going to go wrong. Everything he worked for, all of this time wasted because of this damn coward. Snapping off the steel wire, wrapping it around the Hyuuga’s wrists so that if he woke up he won’t break free.

The footsteps were getting louder and louder, The Stranger ripped the back out of Soujirou’s Kimono exposing his bare back, inscribing a seal on to his skin. Pulling him by the hair, The stranger stood up, his back facing the border. They were here.

UsedShow

[Ninjutsu • Chakra Shackles]
D-Ranked Ninjutsu
After performing a sequence of hand seals, the user creates a set of shackles or handcuffs and places them over the targets wrists binding them together. These are as strong as the maximum of the users control.

[Suiton • Lashes of the Deep]
C-Rank Ninjutsu
The user performs a sequence of hand seals, the user either creates or manipulates a pool of water as five tendrils shoot from it towards a target up to 15 metres away towards a target, wrapping around them grabbing them, wrapping around their arms, legs and neck. Holding and choking them in place. Speed and Strength equal to the user’s control.

Open Space: Homing Bird
C-rank Augment Fuuinjutsu
The user will perform a sequence of hand seals, they will then inscribe an incredibly small seal on any object, organic or inorganic matter. This could be a kunai or an entire person, the seal will remain dormant whilst the user keeps physical contact or connected by the users chakra. The moment that neither of these is present, the seal will activate teleporting it instantly to the user’s Personal Realm. The organic will only be transported if it has less control than the user.

[Director]

As Fanho stepped through the portal at Mamorinuku's most eastern outpost Fanho snapped his fingers as the portal shut behind Takeo. The two had a familiar chakra signature pop up on the cusp of the border noted by one of Mamorinuku's sensors out of this outpost. As the duo fielded their sight through the dark sky, Fanho would need to pin point a good direction to begin looking. Fanho focused his chakra in fielding out the different individuals in the area harping for a particular strong chakra signature in the area, luckily he hadn't need to look far. It appeared two large signatures we're side by side, while one was flaring the other seemed subdued alerting Fanho that one of the two we're perhaps unconscious. While it wasn't uncommon for two missing-nin to squabble, it was uncommon for them to do so so close to a major countries border. "Two large signatures definitely something out of the ordinary, both large signatures of S-rank stature." Fanho furrowed his eye brows through the rain, having his old eyes would've helped right now, but that wasn't a luxury he had anymore. He tugged the hood of his poncho up covering his head while the rest shielded his body.

With a quick wisp of the wind Fanho pushed out into the dark in the direction of the signatures moving at a fast but speed that was manageable for the two to stay close and talk if necessary. Also so that he didn't run straight into any kind of ambush. As Fanho came up he could spot the figure in the rain with another person slumped over his shoulder, it was obvious the two we're there, but just for measure Fanho threw a kunai just in-front of the stranger to halt any movement he had forward. "I think right about there is good. We can do this one of two ways, the easy way where you drop dude buddy there that's currently in la la land and come peacefully, or I write a strongly worded letter to your parents shaming you very harshly for being a hooligan. If mama ain't happy, ain't no one happy." The quips had no see-able end no matter how serious the situation was.

[Izanagi]

Takeo had readied himself quickly when the alert came in that powerful chakra signatures were detected. The Hokage was the type of man who was nearly always ready for a fight and he had requested that any high-level threats be brought to his attention immediately so that he could accompany his elite forces in addressing the threat. Since his encounter with Nehan and Kenji nearly five years ago Takeo had put in the explicit order that only himself, Anbu operatives and Bannin were to engage threats estimated to be S-Rank calibre. As leader of Mamorinuku and forerunner for the succecor of the role of Hokage there was no question that Fanho would accompany him, along with Takeo’s pair of personal ANBU bodyguards. The last time there had been a serious threat and even when the Raikage had entered Fire Country Takeo had been backed up by Yoru, aside from his wife Aina, who was also a Bannin there was nobody the man relied on and trusted more. Yet his former student had been MIA for over 2 years, presumed dead. There were a number of powerful MN or even shinobni from rival villages that could have had a hand in such a thing yet without proof of his death Takeo had stubbornly clung to the hope that he would see Yoru again one day. If not for his damn duties as Hokage he would have personally searched for the man no matter how long it took. All he could do was have hope and faith.

Emerging through the portal Takeo closed his eyes and focused on his breathing, honing his own senses, though of the more physical nature as he listened to the smallest sounds beyond the pounding of the rain. Beneath his brown cloak the man wore his black and brown haori, complete with metal forearm guards and a wakizashi across his back in addition to his kunai holsters and larger combat knives. His companions each wore a black cloak, one showing glimmers of red beneath the cloak, including the color of his hair, his mask bore a likeness to a phoenix in shape and color. The other man wore a green and brown mask shaped and styled like a badger. While Fanho focused on extending his sensory range and determining the location of the unknown individuals the ANBU operatives performed their own jutsu, Shujakku the man with the red mask promptly turned invisible while Tenchi formed hand seals and then produced a small seed in his hand that he passed to the invisible man, stowing it away for the time being as it would continue to build strength over time. The three of these men had known each other for many years, long before any of them had worked together in ANBU, their teamwork was seamless and often could anticipate each other’s plans without the need for verbal communication. Takeo knew that neither of them could fight S-Rank threats directly though their abilities were useful and could play an important role if used wisely.

After focusing enough to enhance his hearing Takeo transitioned his breathing and heartrate, seemingly stopping them completely as like his movements they would remain utterly silent, even his chakra signature would fade away, truly displaying the qualities that had made him such an effective commander of ANBU before being granted the title of Hokage. Whatever this threat was that had dared approach his homeland he would be prepared to snuff out their life swiftly and without mercy. His muscles ached for use, longing for the many days he used to spend in the field, racking up an impressive mission record and a kill count that numbered in the thousands. This side of him, the cold operative was one that he had almost forgotten, few had seen him in true combat and those that had tended to be surprised by the methods he was willing to employ to get results, even going as to torture through many barbaric methods or leave dozens of bodies burned and impaled on tall spikes as a warning to slavers.

When Fanho took off Takeo easily kept pace while the pair of ANBU operatives trailed behind, keeping their distance. As they neared their targets a familiar scent caught the bearded warriors keen nose. ‘Yoru?’ he found himself second guessing himself. It wasn’t quite the same as he remembered, there was no hint of hay or manure but the scent of his hair and skin itself remained. There was something off about his breathing and scent though, distress, conviction, even a hint of fear. He had to be at odds with the other man, there was the distinct scent of blood, but the other persons breathing was slow and steady, a slight raspiness due to injury but there was no mistake that they were unconscious. “One of them might be an Ally” he whispered softly, the only noise he had made thus far. He had to lay eyes on the man to believe what his senses were telling him, he wouldn’t put it past someone like Kenji or someone he may work with to use a genjutsu or an advanced transformation to catch Takeo off guard. As he came just within 30 meters while still approaching from cover Takeo formed handseals and produced a shadow clone before sinking into the earth himself.

The clone would advance alongside Fanho and make no effort to conceal its presence aside from the typical swiftness of movement and light footsteps. Fanho spoke first, throwing around his usual carefree banter. Takeo’s shadow clone stood in shock for what he saw, it really was Yoru and he had brought back one of Konoha’s most dangerous MN, Hyuuga Soujiro. Takeo pulled back his hood, letting the rain soak into his hair, “Yoru? You’re back. You’re alive” he began moving forward. “Why haven’t you made contact until now? No, it doesn’t matter. You’re back and you even brought in a wanted fugitive, well done” he stammered, still barely comprehending that this was actually real. All he wanted right now was to embrace his friend and reunite after far too long. The explanation could come after they made sure Soujiro was properly secured. Still, he kept a distance of about 8 meters. Meanwhile, the real Takeo found himself tempted to come above ground but for now he remained wary that this was some kind of trick. He had to keep himself focused.

Takeo’s StatsShow

Chakra: 35
Control: 40
Endurance: 46
Strength: 47
Speed: 47
Willpower: 35

Jutsu UsedShow

Sounds of the Forest
A-Rank Taijutsu Discipline
Prerequisite: 30 Instinct
By closing his eyes and focussing for half a post in a near-meditative state Takeo is able to greatly enhance his sense of hearing. Even subtle sounds such as breathing and heartbeats can be detected within a 30-meter radius. He can also determine the intent and state of fatigue of individuals based off of these cues. For every post that Takeo remains focused with his eyes closed the range of his hearing increases by 10 meters to a maximum range of 100 meters.

Fangless Hound
B-Ranked Taijutsu Discipline
Growing up surrounded by Inuzuka Takeo has developed a nose keen enough to rival their own. He can pick up on faint scents that average shinobi wouldn’t even notice to the point where he can distinguish the individual body scents of people as well as determine specific species of animals even by just a strand of hair. The passive range of this ability is about 30 meters though if he has picked up on a trail he can continue to follow it to its source assuming there are still scent particles in the air or physical remnants of a trail.

Ghost Walking
S-Rank Taijutsu Discipline
Prerequisite: *[Iijutsu • False Death]
A skill that took Takeo years to master he has honed one of the arts of a true shinobi; the ability to lower ones breathing and heart rate to virtually undetectable levels even in the midst of combat. Takeo can move at his full speed while maintaining his undetectable vital signs, as well as eliminating any sound of movement including rustling of clothes or the drawing of weapons from anyone who doesn’t have a form of S-ranked enhanced hearing.

Chakra Concealment
S-Rank Taijutsu Stance
The absolute pinnacle of masking one’s presence Takeo has learned to eliminate his vital signs to such an extent that he can mask his chakra signature completely. He becomes completely undetectable by means of chakra sensory techniques so long as his Taijutsu stat is equal or higher than the [(Ninjutsu+Control)/2] of the opposing Sensory ninja. He can mask his chakra in such a way for a maximum of 10 posts.

*[Ninjutsu • Advanced Shadow Clone Technique]
A-Ranked Ninjutsu
After performing the correct hand seals the user proceeds to create a number of clones of themselves (maximum is equal to 1/3rd the user's stamina). Unlike the Clone Technique, these clones are actual copies of the user in both appearance and substance. The user's chakra is evenly distributed among every clone, giving each clone an equal fraction of the user's overall power. The clones are capable of performing jutsu on their own and can even bleed, but they will usually disperse after one or two solid blows. The clones will be created in roughly the same condition as the original and any experience the clones gain during their existence is transferred to the user once they are dispersed. Given that the clones are an exact replica of the user, they share the same stats except for stamina, which is determined by the number of clones presently in effect. The advantage of this form of the technique is that once dispersed, the chakra distributed to the clones returns to the user, allowing any un-used chakra to be regained, slowing the draining usage of this technique. The chakra returns to the user at a different rate depending on the user's control.
1-15 Control: 1/5
16-25: 2/5
26-35: 3/5
36+: 4/5

[Earth Element • Mole Hiding]
C-Rank Ninjutsu
After forming the needed hand seals and flooding the earth below them with chakra, the user will dig into the ground. The user can then dig through the earth with the use of chakra. The user can travel underground, up to ten feet deep for up to 4 posts before needing to recast the jutsu. The maximum distance the user can travel is equal to their Controlx2 meters per use. The earth can only be moved at a maximum speed equal to the users control, limiting the user’s speed at which they can travel through the ground. Using this technique does however create a tunnel of sorts, allowing the user to create a series of tunnels for various purposes.

Used by Toshiaki (Tenchi)

Mokuton • Assassination Seed
A-Rank Ninjutsu
Prerequisite: 30 Ninjutsu
After forming the necessary handseals the user will create a 1-inch diameter seed. Over the course of the next 6 posts the user can activate this seed with an additional handseal, causing it to violently grow and expand into an array of spiked wooden tendrils at a speed of 30 and a strength of 30 plus however much additional strength it gathered while laying dormant. These spiked tendrils are 3 inches in diameter and extend to a radius of 10 meters in all directions around the seed.

Used by Masuru (Shujakku)

Light Release • Cloak of Invisibility
A-Ranked Ninjutsu
After forming hand seals the user will use Hiton chakra to bend light around themselves, rendering their entire body and anything on their person completely invisible. The user can move at their full speed while maintaining this invisibility. This technique lasts for up to 6 posts.

[TheLacarix]

The footsteps got louder and louder, as the pair got closer and closer and closer to him. Closer to destroying everything he’d worked for, he’d being tracking Hyuuga, Soujiro for quite some time now and travelled across the world, chasing this fool down, following dud information and coming to nothing but dead ends. Now finally he had him in his grasp, seconds away from completing his goal and seconds away to losing it all.

His hands we’re trembling, both from fear and anger. These damn Konoha shinobi interfering in everything, and this damn HYuuga had to come so close to the fire country, he had to bring their confrontation right to their door stop. Why?! Thought Yoru, he almost spat on the floor he was so riled up. His grip was so tight on the Hyuuga’s scalp, it started to bleed. Tracks of blood poured down his forehead, dripping down his face into his mouth.

A kunai flung through the air landing in front of him, not even flinching or responding to Fanho as he spoke, Yoru didn’t quite recognise his voice nor did he care for the pun, but this man wasn’t his concern right now.

‘Yoru?’ rang through his ears, his sensei, his hokage the man he loved as his own brother had come to face him. His voice offered no malice, only kindness and gratitude. It was apparent to Yoru almost immediately that Takeo was not behind the attack on his life and it was all Kenji’s doing. It was no surprised that Takeo had figured out it was Yoru before he had revealed himself, though not a sensory type, he had a very apt sense of smell.

His throat felt coarse and rough as he opened his mouth, trembling as he spoke “Sensei.” his voice wavered, tears welled in his eye, he could end all this right now, come back to Konoha and live a good life, embrace his mother, drink with his father, train with his brother, train with Aina, tell jokes with Fanho and most importantly be back at the side of Takeo, the right hand man of the Hokage. He’d could be at peace again, finally.

His fingers let loose of his prize, the Hyuuga, the seal Yoru had inscribed began to glow a turquoise colour as he was teleported to Yoru’s personal realm, where he’d lay face first in a bed of red spider lilies. The straw hat fell off Yoru’s head, landing on the ground with a splash hitting onto the wet ground. He peered over his shoulder, his single hazel eye staring into Takeo’s azure blue eyes. His own filled with tears as he slowly stepped towards Takeo, closing the either metre distance, resting his head upon his beloved sensei’s shoulder, then man he called his brother.



“I’m sorry.” He whispered into Takeo’s ear, could he truly forgive Takeo for his mistakes? Inviting Kenji into the village with open arms, essentially writing Yoru’s death sentence, even if unintentionally. Konohagakure was meant to be the village with true heroes, the one’s children dreamed of being, the men and women who would protect the world and keep a balance. It had dawned on Yoru that this was all a lie and Takeo was the worst of them all. Yoru whispered into Takeo’s ear “Adapt and survive., Lord Hokage.” The words that had inspired Yoru throughout most of his life, Takeo’s very own words that had kept him strong. Though those words weren’t the words of a hero, they were the words of a villain, a man who adapted too much, had given in to evil to survive. Withdrawing a kunai in the blink of an eye, Yoru thrust it upwards through the bottom of Takeo’s jaw, trying to catch him by surprise. The kunai hit it’s mark, ending Takeo’s life in an instant.

---

The winter snow cascaded over the training fields of Konoha, Takeo slouched against the rough bark of a large oak tree, surveying the field in front of him, keeping out of the cold. His head turned as a small, red headed round faced genin bounded over to him yelling “Oi, oi! Takeo Sensei! Is anyone else here yet?” offering a thumbs up and a smile across his face.

Ashi a fellow genin, dropped down from the tree almost silent, folding her arms and scowling at Yoru, his presence very much the bain of her life. Kaen, the final member of the genin team strolled over, tall and talented gave a gentle smile.

“Ok! We’re all together. Time for a combat assessment, you three versus me. The last person to land a solid attack gets left behind on our fist mission.” The three genin sprang into action almost immediately charging towards Takeo with a variety of techniques. The thrill of getting to face off against a powerful shinobi like Takeo made Yoru smile with delight.

Team 8 had finally assembled.

---

Team 8 had finally ended.

Yoru’s eye widened with shock, his hand trembled as his grip loosened on the kunai. A swell of remorse came over him. He’d killed his best friend with such ease, the whole shinobi world would be shook and Yoru would be hunted down until the day he died. He’d have no life now, it wouldn’t matter that he’d finally got his treasure. The Byakugan it was all for nothing. This was a mistake that would haunt Yoru forever, something he’d never be able to forgive himself.

A poof of smoke appeared, as Takeo dissipated into thing are. Shadow clone? thought Yoru, he sighed a sigh of relief as the biggest mistake of his life was undone. He knew that Takeo wouldn’t be far behind. Fanho and the Anbu would be on him in a matter of seconds, he had to act fast.

Pushing hard off the ground weaving a sequence of hand seals as he flipped backwards through the air, feeling a surge of chakra pour through him and landing on the floor with a cracking thud. Suiton chakra ripped throught the earth beneanth, ripping the ground to shreads. Yoru knew Takeo better than almost anyone, It was likley Takeo was hiding underground and Yoru would put an end to his classic technique he’d shown many times. The rouge shinobi was no fool, he knew as fast as he was he’d struggle to escape on foot, he’d have to try and slow them down before he could make his escape.

UsedShow

*Ochiba • Single Finger Draw
D-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Utilizing this Maneuver, the user is able to quickly draw a kunai from its holster. This is done by placing their finger through the lip of the holder and into the ring of the pommel, flicking it up and out quickly, having the kunai in the user’s hand within an instant.

Taijutsu • Oscillating Hand Seals
C-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Prerequisite: [Acrobatics & Deft Hands
The user has the ability to perform hand seals from almost any position, whilst flipping, spiralling and performing other acrobatic techniques. This allows the user to move backwards and prepare ninjutsu and the like without losing any momentum or speed.

[Suiton • As Below]
A-Rank Ninjutsu
The user will perform a sequence of hand seals, stamping their feet onto the ground. Water will rip through the ground all around the user, in zig zag formations up to 15 metres and 10 metres high. With a strength and speed equal to the users control stat. It will also strike the target with rubble from the ground below.

[Izanagi]

Reunions with Yoru always came with a surging wave of emotions. In their younger days, Yoru had been a freckled farm boy, with medium length messy hair and Takeo had been a clean-shaven Special Jounin, lean and only slightly defined. For nearly five years they were inseparable, performing missions constantly, training together in countless one on one sessions and always learning and growing. They learned Suiton ninjutsu together, shared their bond in the form of a pair of necklaces adorned with a blue gem that Takeo had bought them on Yoru’s 16th birthday. He had been a father figure of sorts to the boy, always looking out for him and guiding him with a gentle hand. That bond had transitioned into more a likeness of brothers as the two became equals, each achieving the rank of Jounin within 3 years of knowing each other.

They had their rough patches, competing over women in a complicated array of love triangles though always they came back to each other in the end. Their bond was unbreakable, though time pushed them farther apart. As their responsibilities grew, they spent less time with one another, Takeo taking on a new squad and each frequently embarking on missions that spanned several months. Nonetheless, they still took on the occasional mission together as members of ANBU, the organization Takeo had resurrected and led before being chosen as Hokage after the invasion of Konoha. The two had fought together against Yaku and Enma on two separate occasions and even fought Kenji and Nehan together, another pair of S-rank Missing nin.

There was nobody that Takeo loved or trusted more than Aizawa Yoru, in the years since he had last seen the man Takeo had hardened his heart somewhat. He had no choice but to focus on duty and raising his children, enjoying his wife. He had nearly forgotten about Yoru, about how much of himself had been lost in the years since he had seen him last. And now he could feel himself on the verge of becoming whole again, the missing piece of his soul reunited. There was so much to catch up on, missed time with his children who considered Yoru an uncle yet hardly knew the man. The last time he would have seen the twins they would have barely been toddlers and he had never really gotten to know Yozei or Hanako as much as he hoped. There was even Yoru’s younger brother Nobu to think of, whom Takeo was ashamed to say he hadn’t made a strong enough effort to properly connect with. All could finally be corrected now though, he had to believe that. And so despite being a shadow clone, Takeo felt an incredible sense of happiness as the red-haired Bannin approached him for a hug after securing away the Hyuuga MN in another dimension.

The muscular warrior and Hokage of the hidden leaf village took a few steps forward of his own, embracing Yoru in a firm hug. His muscles rippled with power beneath the soaked brown cloak, it seemed yet again he had surpassed his own limits and become stronger still since the last time he had seen Yoru. He was practically twice the size he had been all those years ago when they first met, though Yoru was hardly recognizable either. He noted the eyepatch and wondered if he had actually lost his eye or simply acquired a unique ability, the young man always had a strong fascination for doujutsu and both of them were drawn to Hyuuga women in particular and the unique qualities of the Byakugan. If he had it his way Takeo would have gladly authorized Yoru to implant a Byakugan from a rogue shinobi such as Soujiro, he was no stranger to subverting the authority of superiors and keeping secrets to himself. However, the Hyuuga clan elders were particularly wary of Takeo and some of his greatest critics, despite or perhaps due in part to the fact that Takeo’s wife and two of his four children were members of the famed clan. Not in the least to consider the man’s previous dating history with members of the family, known for corrupting otherwise pure young maidens of the noble family.

He heard Yoru’s soft voice call to him, ‘Sensei’ such a simple word yet it meant so much coming from Yoru. He had heard that title formed from Yoru’s voice over a thousand times over the decade they had known each other and not once did he tire from hearing it. Every time it brought with it a sense of nostalgia for everything they had been through, the good times, the fights, the friends they had lost and mourned together. It seemed Awai members that came into their circle of friends were destined for hardship, both Haru and Mino being chosen as hosts to Aturasu and having the beast ripped out of them, killing their wise cracking friend from their early Jounin days that they had fought lava monsters alongside and saved Fire Country from, and Mino, he had been left a broken husk of the bright and optimistic man he had been before. It almost would have been better had he died, for as much as Takeo and Aina had both tried to get through to him he was lost and with that so too had Takeo lost his other student Makoto who had retired as a shinobi after becoming a Chunin, his spirits crushed by the tragedy that had befallen his teammate and his faith in his Sensei lost. Incidentally, two more Awai members were present now, both the Bannin Fanho and Takeo’s former Genin teammate Masuru who had been his best friend in his childhood though that bond paled in comparison to what he felt toward Yoru. “You’re home now. I’ve missed you” he said, his own eyes watering with emotion as he realized just how true that was. A firm hand clasped on Yoru’s shoulder, an endearing gesture of unconditional support that Takeo had done countless times.

---

FlashbackShow

Moving into position the seasoned warrior listened carefully to his student’s whispered words. He stopped and turned upon hearing the trepidation in Yoru’s voice. “I’ll always have your back Yoru” he confirmed as he clasped the man’s shoulder. “We’ll fight side by side and finish this together, I wouldn’t have it any other way”

Yoru was so glad to hear his sensei say they’d fight side my side, he was so worried that he would come across cowardly. But he knew that they’d easily be overcome if they didn’t work together. He looked down at the hand placed on his shoulder, Yoru’s fell atop of his and patted it “I’ll always have yours Takeo, let’s get this done with.” He said with a soft smile.

---

Yoru came closer again, resting his head on Takeo’s shoulder and with one hand still firmly on his shoulder the other came to cup the back of his head, “You’re back now, that’s all that matters” he reiterated. He knew it had to be hard to be gone for so long, the last time he had returned had been from a 6-month expedition and he had gone back empty-handed. It had been over 2 years now but at least he had shown up with an S-ranked Missing ninja, though likely not one of the ones he had originally sought out. Truthfully Takeo had hoped he would have taken him up on the offer to assist minor countries and build up the reputation of Konoha, building alliances and keeping a wide net of information flowing rather than hunt down dangerous shinobi. But as always Takeo was simply a mentor and a friend to Yoru, he wasn’t going to order him to shelve his own desires, he knew he was fueled largely by emotion and needed to feel fulfilled when he set his mind to something. He wouldn’t deprive him of that.

What happened next however was something Takeo could never have anticipated. He felt the shift, the change in Yoru’s breathing the change to his tone but he couldn’t bring himself to think of Yoru as a threat. The knife emerged in a flash and sunk deep into the shadow clones throat. Takeo stumbled a step backward, his hand still on Yoru’s shoulder though his grip weakened and his other hand moved from Yoru’s hair to touch against the blood soaking his neck. His brilliant blue eyes displayed only confusion and betrayal but no malice. He could never hate Yoru, in fact he would gladly sacrifice his life to protect him. Before the shadow clone faded from existence its last thought was of another time he had nearly died while fighting alongside Yoru.

---

FlashbackShow

He lunged forward, knocking away one of the slavers blades with his own as he reached for the amulet with his free hand. The seal glowed red, apparently not quite being able to absorb the entire jutsu as the man was covered in light first degree burns and singed hairs. The slaver however reacted quickly, taking advantage of the opening and stabbing Takeo through the midsection with his free blade as the man’s hand grasped the amulet. The necklace was yanked from the chain and crushed in his hand before being tossed aside, all the while the Jounin was howling in pain. His right hand held firm on his dagger, keeping pressure on the man’s sword and keeping it away while his free hand now grabbed the swordsman’s wrist, holding it in place in his stomach as blood pooled in his shirt. “Yoru now!” he yelled frantically. His maneuver had been risky and he knew the likely outcome, already his wound was clotting and the damage being healed as best as possible considering the sword was still in place. The amulet had been overloaded just enough to not absorb the chakra circulating through his own body.

Yoru’s eyes widened in shock “TAKEO!” he screamed in anguish, not realising that his Sensei could repair his own wounds. He knew Takeo could heal others but had no idea that his sensei could heal his own wounds with such ease. He heard Takeo yell ‘Yoru Now!’ but he didn’t react he was frozen in place. To him his sensei was likely to die, his eyes welled up as warm salty water poured down his face, his teeth clenched in anger, his palms turned to fists as his nails digged so deep into the palm of his hand so that it broke the skin. Yoru’s world was crumbling around him, the man he cared so much about was dying infront of his eyes, or so he thought.

The young Jounin placed his hands together, channelling ration chakra towards his right hand. He felt pins and needles pour up and down his arm to the tips of his fingertips as he weaved a set of handseals, one after the other as quickly as he could “I’m going to gut you like a f*king pig!” he screamed angrily, spit falling from his mouth, his voice raspy and broken as though yelling hurt his vocal chords. The sound of chirping birds screamed from his fingertips as blue ration chakra soon followed it.

The slave slumped over, leaning on Yoru as blood poured from his mouth covering Yoru’s back. Withdrawing his arm, that was covered in blood and innards he let the slaver fall to the ground in a clump. Yoru gasped loudly as the ration chakra dissipated from his hand, he ran to his sensei. Tears still in his eyes, his hands were shaking “Takeo.” He whispered softly, Yoru had always associated his beloved sensei as a brother, that was wrong. Yoru had a father of his own, but Takeo was a second one. Now he was seeing his father figure die, he drooped his head down and closed his eyes as he whimpered in anguish.

It took the man a few moments to collect himself, his breathing was slow, deep and deliberate. “I’m alright Yoru” he said softly, slowly pulling open his haori to reveal his bloodied stomach and though a mark remained where the sword had pierced, once he wiped away some of the blood it would become obvious that the wound had been healed. “I’m not that easy to kill, I may be getting old but I still have a couple tricks up my sleeve” he forced himself to smile and allow some sense of humor into his voice though it was short-lived. He swallowed hard, doing his best to remain strong. In truth he had been prepared to die and had no idea whether or not his plan would work. “I’m just glad you’re okay” he said, fighting back a feeling of sorrow and grief. He didn’t want to imagine losing his dearest friend, the man was closer to him than even his own family.

Yoru’s eyes welled with tears as he glared at his blooded sensei, the anguish that he felt was incomparable. He looked up as he heard his sensei say he alright. His eyes widened in shock as he saw the wound had healed “You idiot!” Yoru barked angrily, punching his sensei firmly in the shoulder. “I thought I’d lost you!” his voice switching quickly from anger to sadness, as he whimpered through his teeth. Wiping away the tears from his eyes he sighed loudly, nudging his sensei in the shoulder again.

---

The shadow clone vanished in a puff of smoke and the real Takeo slumped against the wall underground, tears leaking from his eyes. ‘How? Why?’ he wondered in shock, he couldn’t believe that Yoru would try to kill him. There had to be some explanation, this was a trick or brainwashing Genjutsu? Yoru was far more proficient than him in Genjutsu but the last time he had seen him at least he was far from a master in the arts, his greatest skills being his speed and Space/time ninjutsu with some elemental proficiency and an aptitude for projectiles and kunai combat to round out his arsenal. He didn’t have time to work out the specifics however, he had to fight and supress this foe regardless of the reason for the aggression.

He knew Fanho would act and take some of the heat off him. He had to fight tactically and conserve his chakra; his reserves had depleted somewhat in recent years as he focused his attention on surpassing his limits physically but that didn’t mean he couldn’t hold his own in a battle of ninjutsu. His skill was not in sheer power of his techniques nor in the size of his chakra reserves but rather the versatility of jutsu styles he knew and the tactics on how and when to use them. As Yoru’s Suiton ninjutsu ripped into the ground Takeo leapt out from his hiding place, he was still a little out of range of the attack though he wouldn’t count on Yoru to not expand to a longer range if necessary. Countering Takeo formed a set of seals, spewing out a blanket of Suiton jutsu of his own, spreading across the surfaces like an expanding lake, this was one of his signature techniques and one that he had even taught Yoru long ago, the entrapping syrup field. He reduced the speed to only about 20 while imbuing it with 40 Strength, enough that it should be able to contain Yoru should he trap him. The sticky substance would expand to a diameter of 75 meters, even coating the cracks on the earth that had been broken open by Yoru’s techniques. “Watch your footing Fanho” he warned solemly, to the man who would be less familiar with the technique. Meanwhile, Takeo’s companions had only just caught up, keeping to the trees, Tenchi keeping back 50 meters while Shujakku moved while invisible, flanking and closing in around from the side but keeping a distance of about 25 meters still. “What the hell happened to you Yoru?!” he yelled, his voice booming with intensity as he flung off his cloak, the man’s aura changed to one of conviction. He would bring him down, taken alive, and get his answers one way or another. At the base of the neckline of his haori one could catch a glimmer of the blue sapphire he still wore, the gem pressed against his chest hanging near to his heart.

Jutsu UsedShow

Entrapping Syrup Field
B-Ranked Suiton Ninjutsu
The user forms a series of hand seals and then spits out high-viscosity, chakra infused water, aimed at a surface of wide scope. This is a stream of sticky liquid which can be used to form an adhesive trap that can inhibit a person's mobility. One can effectively reduce their enemy's area of activity with this technique, and has the effect of being able to take complete control over the battlefield. Once contact with the ground is made the large stream of water will spread out to cover a 25 meter diameter area. Being caught in the technique however can be avoided by channeling chakra to one's feet allowing one to walk upon it uninhibited, though only if they have not already come into contact with the substance. The stream travels and spreads out at a speed and strength up to the users control (20 Speed, 40 Strength)

[Director]

While the two had a lovely reunion chronic'd by a full books worth of words, Fanho had been watching keeping an eye out over Yoru's chakra signature. Something felt off, it didn't feel normal. As he flashed to check Yoru's emotional state as his chakra began flaring Fanho noticed from a somber sadness washing over to an immense anger that flooded his system. In a flash Yoru had jutted a kunai through the jaw of his former mentor, luckily a clone, but none-the-less intent to kill with an enraging blood lust took over Yoru. "I don't think he's on our side any more!"

As the water tentacles emerged raging all over the field in the rain Fanho hopped to the side out of their way before channeling immense Hiton chakra to his fingers before flicking them firing off three bullets aimed at the watery tendrils ripping through the land at an immense speed aimed to rip through and end their destruction. with the disappearance the Hyuuga, Fanho only assumed there was ill intentions with their kekkei genkai. As he aimed the rest of his bullets to rip a torrent through Yoru's arms and legs aiming to pierce through his calves with a bullet each, one through each shoulder, and another two through the upper half of his left thigh aiming to sever major tendons required to run. If anything Fanho was aiming to disable Yoru to bring him back, he had figured it would be what the Wolfman would have wanted most was to bring him back.

After all the Hokage had granted Fanho leniency to return Zakuro to the village, and that he did. He would honor the same mercy for Yoru whether Takeo asked or not, he felt the same pain the Hokage was experiencing in this moment. Just need one good disabling blow.

Jutsu UsedShow

[Sensory Style • Heart Sense]
A-Rank Ninjutsu
By channeling chakra, the user will close their eyes and focus on chakra sources within a 40m range of their vicinity. Chakra is intimately linked with a person's mental state, and this technique makes use of that link to evaluate a person's emotions. The user is able to detect a flare in chakra reacting with emotions, evaluate and determine the general status of a person, should they be happy, sad, annoyed, but more importantly, can evaluate things like killing intent, and can be used to detect lies in people without an equal or greater rank Perception Taijutsu.

Hiton • Speeding Bullet
C-Rank Ninjutsu
By channeling chakra to the tip of his finger, Fanho can create solid bullets of light 6' inches long, half an inch wide and tall up to 10 times. The bullets glow bright with a grey glow as they're fired with a speed of [Control], and pierces with a strength of [Control].

[TheLacarix]

A technique Yoru had seen countless of times, an entrapping syrup field that was somewhat of a signature technique of his Sensei. Yoru rolled his eyes, it would be no problem for him to avoid and he flipped backwards into the air creating distance between himself and the field. As he soared through the air, his eye widened with shock, the syrup fields range was much larger than before extending past where Yoru was intending to land.

He still had time, weaving a flurry of seals making a weak barrier of chakra beneath his feet as he landed, though he didn’t have time to be their long as he flipped backwards again as bullets of hiton hurtled towards him, narrowly avoiding them, as his fingers pressed to his kunai holder throwing a kunai directly at Takeo hoping that he wouldn’t quite be able to make it out under the flurry of the jutsu, aiming squarely at his chest and weaving a set of seals, as a clone of Yoru and himself landed on the ground outside of the field of syrup. None lethal attacks so far by both of them, Fanho aiming for Yoru’s shoulders and legs and this syrup field would simply hold Yoru in place if he was caught, this would hopefully give Yoru the edge.

Weaving a flurry of seals, he spat in aggression at Takeo “What happened to me? What happened to you Takeo!?” Screamed Yoru at the top of his lungs, his face, red and flushed with anger, his veins almost popping from his neck as his eye wildly glared at Takeo “You have no idea what you did to me! What you’ve done to Konoha. You signed my death warrant you god damn fool!” Takeo had no idea what he had done by working with the rouge shinobi, anyone who dared defined them was considered a threat. Yoru wondered how many other Shinobi Kenji had killed who dared stood in his way.

As stepped backwards towards the treeline, he realised something wasn’t quite right, Takeo a short-range fighter was pushing Yoru back towards the treeline away from the fire country. Takeo was a fool to think he could defeat Yoru in a long range battle, unless he was intending on letting Fanho help bridge that gap. That seemed unlikely, in Yoru’s experience Takeo had ultimately being hands on and didn’t let others fight for him. Was there something hiding within these trees? Possible, but Yoru had to focus what was in front of him for now. One of the Yoru’s would keep their gaze focused on the treeline.

Yoru didn’t want to waste any more time, the longer he tried to fight them the more likely they’d catch him and he couldn’t risk that. He was not going back to Konoha. He had to end this and end it quickly, he was going to go all out and give them something a tad more difficult to deal with than a kunai. His hands raised in to the air, a large wave of acid raised high into the air in front of Yoru moving towards Fanho and Takeo, ripping through anything that got in its path and hopefully destroying the field of syrup as it did. Yoru knew this was a risky technique, he could tire himself out quite quickly, but it had to be done. Using one of his most powerful techniques from the get go.

UsedShow

Taijutsu • Oscillating Hand Seals
C-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Prerequisite: [Acrobatics & Deft Hands
The user has the ability to perform hand seals from almost any position, whilst flipping, spiralling and performing other acrobatic techniques. This allows the user to move backwards and prepare ninjutsu and the like without losing any momentum or speed.

[Ninjutsu • Magic Carpet] << D-Rank Version
A-Ranked Ninjutsu
Prerequisites: 35 Control
The user performs a sequence of hand seals, once complete a platform of chakra 4x4 metres will appear beneath the user’s feet. The user must be in contact at all times with the platform or it will disperse. This will allow the user to move around freely and fly, to a maximum of the users control and speed and must follow the height restrictions of in-flight combat.


*[Ninjutsu • Shadow Clone Technique]
A-Ranked Ninjutsu
After performing the correct hand seals the user proceeds to create a number of clones of themselves (maximum is equal to 1/3rd the users Chakra Pool). Unlike the Clone Technique, these clones are actual copies of the user in both appearance and substance. The user's chakra is evenly distributed among every clone, giving each clone an equal fraction of the user's overall power. The clones are capable of performing jutsu on their own, be given complex commands, caught in genjutsu, and can even bleed, but they will usually disperse after one or two solid blows. The clones will be created in roughly the same condition as the original and any experience the clones gain during their existence is transferred to the user once they are dispersed. Given that the clones are an exact replica of the user, they share the same stats except for Chakra Pool, which is determined by the number of clones presently in effect.

[Acid Release • Wave of the Water Snake]
S-Rank Ninjutsu
Prerequisite: 45 Control
The user will perform a sequence of hand seals and lift their hands into the air, they will create a large wave of acid that is 90 metres high, by 30 metres wide. It will rip through anything that gets in its way, flooding and filling any space it can. The user can move this up to 150 metres, lasts up to 5 posts. Speed and Strength equal to the users control stat.

[Izanagi]

Takeo analyzed Yoru’s movements, graceful and efficient with powerful long range ninjutsu and an inclination towards Kunai, everything verified that there was no question this was Yoru and he seemed fully in control. That meant there had to be a misunderstanding of some sort, a corrupting influence spreading lies to turn him against Konoha. As the kunai same soaring towards him with expert precision, Takeo deftly drew the dagger at his hip, preferring the longer and sturdier style of knife to that of a kunai, at least for close combat. With a quick, fluid motion he deflected the projectile. The speed and strength seemed consistent for what he recalled of Yoru. It seemed neither of them had changed their combat styles too much in the years since they had last sparred, there matches were often extremely close with each knowing each others strengths, weaknesses and even the vast majority of their jutsu. While surely there were a handful of new additions and slight changes to tactics over all they could anticipate what the other would do more often than not. He was fortunate to have Fanho alongside him, he would need to rely on his powerful combat style to give them the edge over Yoru. If he kept a few moves ahead, drawing out big attacks from Yoru while conserving his own chakra he was sure they could wear him out and take him back alive. The greatest obstacle would be Space-time ninjutsu though fortunately Fanho was also skilled in such techniques, perhaps he would be able to prevent Yoru from escaping in such a way. For his own part Takeo simply had to keep up enough pressure and draw on Yoru’s emotions to keep him engaged.

It pained him to assess Yoru as a threat though naturally his mind adjusted quickly to tactics and battlefield control. As the red haired Bannin flipped through the air forming seals, Takeo formed his own handseals, encasing his body in a stone armor, complete with a helmet. It was one of two variations of earthen armor he utilized. This one was more rock-like rather than a simple change in skin tone and it also allowed for him to extend blades from his arms. He noticed the shadow clone that Yoru produced, that was good. It would help equalize their chakra drains after his own shadow clone had been destroyed. If he and Fanho kept up steady pressure they could force Yoru to drain himself quickly as surely he would seek to end the fight as quick as possible against two high level opponents. “I’m the same as I’ve always been Yoru!” he replied grimly, he had an idea now of what might have occurred. He didn’t want to discuss such things in front of Fanho, the man was young and idealistic and likely had no idea the lengths Takeo would go to in order to protect Konoha. “I’ve seen the darkness in you too, the hate for Iwagakure, for slavers. Everything I do is for the sake of the village and our people, for the sake of you” he retaliated, channeling chakra and causing some of the syrupy liquid to rise up and coat his own body, overtop of the stone.

Yoru was forming a lengthy set of seals on the other side of the large pool of syrup, he couldn’t let him keep control of a ranged battle. He had set up his environment and now he needed to close the distance. Using the water walking technique he would run atop the syrup, flanking in a strafe to the right he would also continue channeling chakra into the pool of syrup, causing it to flow at 35 speed, moving around to the left behind some trees and circling around to draw the focus of Yoru’s shadow clone that took position watching the trees. Meanwhile Masuru, under a shroud of invisibility closed in at a speed of 35, attempting to get a good angle on the shadow clone and strike him with a swift katana should an opportunity present itself, even if he missed he would subtly drop the seed created earier in some of the syrup that was quickly spreading through the area. He hoped Fanho would likewise keep up the pressure and prevent Yoru from using high level techniques or at least be able to counter them. As Takeo charged toward the Yoru forming handseals, Toshiaki would form seals and wait for the moment either of the Yoru’s jumped, launching a powerful pillar striking with 40 Speed and 40 Strength in a 15x15 meter square, aimed about 5 meters up from the ground in a horizontal strike from the nearby trees in an attempt to pummel any attempt at aerial maneuvering.

Jutsu UsedShow

Doton • Combat Armor
B-Rank Ninjutsu
After performing the necessary hand seals Takeo will flow Doton chakra throughout his body, enveloping himself in a dark brown stone suit of armor. The armor encases his clothes and weapons holsters though leaves them accessible enough to draw from. Enveloping his head is optional and if opted to only his eyes will remain exposed. All in all the stone is about an inch thick and capable of defending against a strength of 35. Throughout the duration in which the armor lasts Takeo is able to extend or retract stone blades which extend from his forearm past his hand at a speed of 40, the maximum length of these blades it 2 meters.

Climb
C-Rank Suiton Ninjutsu
After maintaining the last seal of the syrup field jutsu or channeling chakra Takeo can manipulate the adhesive liquid to defy gravity to a limited extent, allowing it to move up an ensnared opponent’s body or weapons. This technique can also be used more strategically, allowing Takeo to maneuver his syrup field up the sides of walls or vertical surfaces or even onto a ceiling, allowing for a new dimension to his capturing tactics. If Takeo releases the seal or if his concentration is interrupted the substance will slowly drip away from the surface it is on. The substance moves at a speed of 35 and only a 15x15 meter area of water can be controlled at a time.


Used by Masuru:

*[Iaido • Iai Beheading Draw]
B-Rank Taijutsu Maneuver
Prerequisite: *Iaido • Beheading Draw, 25 Speed
With a Variation of the Beheading Draw technique, the user forces a very quick snap of tension and torque through their arm as they draw their sword sending it vertically or across with great speed. With its speed, the strike takes on a blur, many times not even appearing to be drawn from its sheath. This slash is also incredibly powerful with its speed, able to slice through stone in most cases with enough power.

Light Release • Cloak of Invisibility (still active, 3rd post)
A-Ranked Ninjutsu
After forming hand seals the user will use Hiton chakra to bend light around themselves, rendering their entire body and anything on their person completely invisible. The user can move at their full speed while maintaining this invisibility. This technique lasts for up to 6 posts.

Used by Toshiaki:

Mokuton • Assassination Seed (Still active, 3rd post)
A-Rank Ninjutsu
Prerequisite: 30 Ninjutsu
After forming the necessary handseals the user will create a 1-inch diameter seed. Over the course of the next 6 posts the user can activate this seed with an additional handseal, causing it to violently grow and expand into an array of spiked wooden tendrils at a speed of 30 and a strength of 30 plus however much additional strength it gathered while laying dormant. These spiked tendrils are 3 inches in diameter and extend to a radius of 10 meters in all directions around the seed.

Mokuton • Sky Mallet
C-Rank Ninjutsu
After performing the correct hand seals, the user focuses on an already existing source of their Mokuton or natural wood, causing a wooden mallet with a 15x15 meter diameter to grow out of it and move at a speed of up to the users control (40) from the source into a target. If it successfully hits a target, it does so with strength up to the users control (40) strength.

[Director]

As Fanho watched the acid wave topple towards the trio, Fanho had to leave it within Takeo's hands. The Awai Bannin was the only one out of the squad of them to have Space/Time and be able to out maneuver the wave. Luckily them being in the remote part of the forest they could all safely evade and let the wave crash, but doing so would leave Yoru a chance to escape. As Fanho's arms glowed with fuuinjutsu growing across them he had prepped one of his most solid techniques before blinking right behind the real Yoru that Fanho had been keeping tabs on. Despite what Yoru had theorized, Fanho was going to take the lead whether Takeo had liked it or not. He was the only one able to combat Yoru's Space/Time, and able to keep up with his speed, Takeo would be the one having to back Fanho up and support him. With their bond in mind as well, Takeo was more than likely steadying himself to be able to withstand the burden of having to take down his practical brother, but Fanho didn't want to let Takeo get to that point and he would be willing to put that responsibility on himself to save Takeo and Yoru from making mistakes.

As Fanho blinked next to Yoru and his clone he twisted his hips flying from behind the man aiming to strike the real Yoru straight to the head with a vicious haymaker as he attempted to strike Yoru's clone in the head with a kick that would knock him flying forwards. Conserve, strike, and move While Takeo was readying armor, and Yoru was playing with heavy level ninjutsu to escape. Fanho was biding his time and attempting to make a surgical strike at his opponent piercing through the time window that had been left open. While his old tactics of bombardment, and non-stop attacking may have worked against Takeo he had to adapt and add a bit more precision to his fight here.

He wouldn't let Yoru leave if he could help it. Yoru needed to come home, not just for himself, but for Takeo, his family, and his friends. Fanho would see to that no matter what. "You're coming home Yoru, whether I beat the sense into you or not."

Jutsu UsedShow

Force Fuuinjutsu • Hidaki Smash
C-Rank Fuuinjutsu
Fanho will channel chakra creating the fuuinjutsu across his arms. This fuuinjutsu stores up to [Control] strength worth of kinetic strength (IE. A punch, ball tossed with strength, etc). He can channel additional chakra to the fuuinjutsu to fill it with the strength or absorb it from an incoming attack taking the strength out of it and allowing him to redirect it.

Open Space: Blink
C-rank Ninjutsu
Fanho will channel chakra to his body as he focuses on a place within [Control]x2 meters of him. As long as he focuses on that place he can open space around himself and anything he is touching to teleport there instantly.

[TheLacarix]

Yoru listened to Takeo’s words, what a fool he seemed. Daring to suggest what he’d done, was for Yoru and for the rest of the village. There was no sense of malice or doubt within Takeo’s words and believed everything he was saying. It was apparent to Yoru that his beloved Sensei was deluded what he had done. His actions had lead to the attack on Yoru’s life, the reason he no longer lived with his village. Perhaps Takeo did believe that everything he was doing was for the good of the village, but his morals had become jaded and weak. Yoru wanted nothing to do with him and what he’d done. Strange, the man he’d loved for so long was now the man he hated more than any other.


His eyes widened with shock as Takeo continued to hurtle forward, covering himself with doton and suiton move forward through the large distance. Yoru had to stop himself from laughing, to him his Sensei was far too slow as it was apparent, he was trying to stop the lengthy set of seals. But he wouldn’t be quick enough as Takeo hurtled closer and closer the large wave of acid would rip through the armour of rock as though it was made of paper and would even hurt Takeo if he didn’t protect himself.


‘One down’ thought the Ex-Bannin of the leaf “You really are a fo-“ he began to scream, but he was cut off as an onslaught of attacks came towards his clone, a blade ripping through him and a firm kick to the head by the teleporting Fanho, the clone hurtled through the air towards the woods and disappeared in a poof of smoke.

Yoru knew that this would be an impossible task, he hadn’t intended on fighting two S-Rank shinobi he’d hope to simply get his hands on the Hyuuga and disappear without even revealing himself to the leaf. It dawned on him how alone he truly was, normally he’d have Takeo, Fanho, Zakaruo or even Mino to by his side. A whole village to support him and now he was alone. Though this wouldn’t detour him, it would push him further. His new found allegiance with the young boy known as Shio, would need to develop quicker. Once he’d completed the transplant of the Byakugan he’d return to Shio and help build a new organisation, a new organisation that would be able to protect rouge shinobi like himself, build up a network of support.

He wouldn’t waste any time, he knew now the clone was out of the way Fanho would surely be coming for him, he’d be capable of using space time within a matter of moments and was likely already on his tail. However he wouldn’t let that happen. Yoru had to act fast, holding a single hand seal Yoru hurtled to the other side of the syrup field within an instant, appearing where the kunai had been deflected by Takeo.



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He wasted no time at all, weaving a flurry of hand seals as he began to sing a song, in a high, melodic tune.

I am a poor wayfaring stranger
I'm travellin' through this world of woe
Yet there's no sickness, toil, nor danger
In that bright land to which I go

I know dark clouds will gather 'round me
I know my way is rough and steep
But golden fields lie just before me
Where God's redeemed shall ever sleep.

His song rang through the field, it was something of a newer ability of Yoru’s at least being so proficient in genjutsu. Something he never recalled showing in front of Takeo or even Fanho a skill he was hoping would catch them by surprise. Even hearing a single note would capturing them within his genjutsu. The pair would if successful instantly fall in love with Yoru and have the desperate urge to give him their hearts as a gift. Yoru knew the pair were far too clever for this to actually happen and the pain would of course wake them out, but he knew if he was successful it would least give him enough time to escape. He pushed his hands into his pouch withdrawing five senbon and spraying them across the field in different locations.

Jutsu UsedShow

Open Space: Step between Heaven & Earth
B-rank Jikukan Ninjutsu
The user will hold a single hand seal, and will be instantly be teleported to any Heaven and Earth Seal that has being previously created instantly.

[Genjutsu • Heart of Glass]
S-Ranked Status Genjutsu
Prerequisite: 45 Will Power, 45 Control
The user will perform a sequence of hand seals and will sing, anyone who hears a single note will be infatuated with the user, despite sexual orientation. Will feel the urge to give the user their heart, literally, at all costs attempt to rip their own heart from their body to gift it to the user, this will feel euphoric and the user will feel very little pain whilst doing this and become aggressive to anyone who attempts to stop them or get in their way. This urge will last for 5 post.

[Izanagi]

Takeo’s eyes widened in surprise as he saw the massive wave of acid emerge in front of him. He hadn’t expected Yoru to try to pull off such a high level move, not only due to the time it took to build up such a massive amount of chakra and the drain it required, especially after dividing his chakra pool with the shadow clone, but also because he couldn’t believe Yoru would actually try to kill him. And yet he had never seen him utilize such a monstrous use of Acid before, he had changed. He really was going all out with no regard for Takeo’s life nor Fanho’s. Fortunately, Takeo had layered himself in two types of armor, his sticky water and Doton, it was a competent defence against most techniques and furthermore the massive pillar of wood fired off by his companion would come between Takeo and the acid in its path to blocking off Yoru. Still, some of the acid flowed under the elevated wood and Takeo would jump suddenly, using the wood as a shield while forming a handseal to cause the syrup field around him to also surge upward around him, diluting the acid even as some poured overtop the rapidly dissolving wood, mixing with the syrupy liquid and splashing across the layered sticky substance on his armor. It sizzled and slid off his earthen armor, leaving the rock mostly unharmed, if perhaps slightly eroded.

Forming a quick series of handseals, wind chakra would form at his feet as he landed above the eroding ground, the syrup slowed the acid down but it would still devastate the area given a little more time to eat away at the earth. Re-assessing quickly, Takeo sniffed at the air, realizing that Yoru’s shadow clone had been destroyed and Masuru, Fanho, and Toshiaki were still safe, being behind Yoru’s position when he fired off the wave though his two companions were falling back, heading to a position about 50 meters in the trees, the opposite direction that Yoru had teleported to, after seeing the range and devastation Yoru could muster. They would have to choose their moves carefully. The real Yoru was about 60 meters from Takeo’s current position, behind him back closer to where he had started, that was a dangerous position considering it was directly in the path of the massive wave of acid, though Yoru was fast and agile, surely he would be able to get to the outside edge of the wave that was not nearly as wide as it was tall nor even close to how far it travelled.

Still, Yoru was certainly arrogant and perhaps even desperate to attempt an even lengthier set of seals than his ninjutsu attack while in the presence of a Ninjutsu master who utilized Space time as well as one of the physically most capable shinobi in the world. Hurtling forward at 50 speed, hovering over the ground Takeo would not be slowed this time by performing armor jutsu. He still had his Doton after all “Damn you Yoru!” he shouted as he ran, furious that he would be forced to fight harder to bring his friend down. The 60 meters or so would be crossed quite quickly at his speed, the stone around his arms would extend into spikes as he closed the distance with the intent of skewering Yoru through the stomach with his full 47 Strength given the slight debuff he took while using wind skating. He doubted a stab in the stomach no matter how strong would kill Yoru but it would likely be enough to stop him. If the man insisted on performing his genjutsu right up to the last second it wouldn’t take effect until after his attack had been made. If he had cut Yoru at all he would immediately begin trying to stop the bleeding with medical jutsu to try to save him. “Please Yoru, just come home. I love you,” he pleaded, tears flowing freely as emotions flooded through him. Assuming the genjutsu had been initated, Takeo would do everything he could to keep Yoru close and safe, feeling emotions surge through him and never wanting to part from the man. He would do anything to keep him with him and to show his love for the man. Even his comrades would hear those first words of the song, leaping through the trees closer in desperation to prove their love to the man, shouting out to him as Masuru dispelled his invisibility.

Jutsu UsedShow

Surge
D-Ranked Suiton Ninjutsu
This simple jutsu only requires the channeling of chakra and a quick, focused surge of chakra into an area of the designated area. This causes any water in a 20 meter radius of the target to violently burst upward, this technique doesn’t do any actual damage since it is only the water surrounding the target that is raised and not the water they are standing on. The water rises at a speed of 20 and is meant to serve either as a distraction or to drench the opponent in water for supplementary purposes.

*Fuuton • Wind Skating
D-Ranked Fuuton Jutsu
After performing the needed hand seals, the user is able to glide on air as if they were skating on ice. This allows them to move faster (+3 speed) but lowers their ability to put their full strength into their attacks (-3 Strength). This doesn't allow them to fly, but rather to travel over things like land, water, and ice with greater ease. The user is only held several inches off of the ground. This Jutsu does not expire until the user’s chakra supply runs out or the user shuts it off. The fuuton passive is not applied in this technique.

[Director]

As Fanho's foot slipped through the clone a burst of smoke replacing where it stood, he could feel a shift in chakra in the air as Yoru's presence appeared on the other side of the tidal wave alongside Takeo. With a grit of his teeth Fanho channeled chakra to a shuriken he whipped out from his pouch as it transformed into a fuma shuriken before launching that shuriken in the air as it curved 90 degrees directly in the path of Yoru's travel aiming to surprise or halt the man for the duo to keep up. As Fanho neared he could hear the man singing but couldn't quite make out the words.

As he neared closer Fanho would keep his senses on the two as Takeo would attempt his run through with the blade at the time Fanho's fuma shuriken would strike in-front of Yoru. He could sense that neither Takeo nor himself wanted to kill Yoru. Perhaps maim to detain, but that would be the extent of violence they'd use. What would kill mere normal men a hearty shinobi of their caliber would simply shrug it off usually. While the two duked it out ahead, Fanho hoped he would be quick enough to provide support. While he knew Takeo was certainly strong, worthy of claiming the Hokage's robes he had feared maybe one fault or lapse in judgement may result in Takeo being mortally wounded as evident earlier from the surprise strike Yoru had initiated on the clone. As Fanho darted through the trees he had only hoped he could be fast enough to prevent anything the two would regret.

Jutsu UsedShow

Ninjutsu • Fuma Shuriken
D-Rank Ninjutsu
By channeling chakra into an existing shuriken in Fanho's hand he can enlarge it, changing its shape into a fuma shuriken. With a poof of smoke the shuriken takes on the form of a fuma shuriken, cuts like a fuma shuriken, and can be thrown like one as well. Lasts for 4 posts.

Konoha Smash • Curved Strike
C-Rank Taijutsu Maneuver
Fanho has perfected the art of throwing a projectile to the point he can naturally cause it to completely perform up to a 90° curve. He can cause it to curve anytime within his Strength*2 meters.

[TheLacarix]

The acid would rip through the powerful doton armour, that enveloped the famed Hokage. However he wasn’t within the green liquid for it to do enough damage, protecting Takeo as he now hurtled towards the Rouge Shinobi at a surprising speed one that matched his own and Fanho. Something Yoru had never seen Takeo achieve before, that would be a pain. Though for now it was something he could deal with, Takeo was after all was simply charging forward, attempting a direct strike.

Pushing hard off the ground, Yoru flipped backwards through the air continuing to weave his hand seals, a simple technique but rather effective it created enough space for Yoru to complete his jutsu and avoid most of the front attack from his sensei. The spikes of doton, pushed within the Ex-Bannin of Konoha, piercing through his skin but luckily not hitting anything vital nor deep enough to do any significant damage as Yoru had moved back far enough. Pulling himself free, he stepped back as blood trickled out, making a red patch appear around the waist of his haori.

A windmill shuriken came hurtling through the air towards Yoru, he shook his head with annoyance as he edged closer his fingers wrapped around the centre of the large shuriken plucking it from the air, bringing it to a perfect halt and dropping it on the floor below. Projectiles had being Yoru’s speciality since he was a child, a simple curved technique wouldn’t be enough to stop him.

His hand pressed against the wound, The entire battlefield was now within his genjutsu, he wouldn’t have long. The urge for the Konoha shinobi to stab out their own hearts would soon be hard to fight and the moment that happened, the life-threatening injury would release them from his powerful mind trick.

Hearing Takeo say that he loved him, ripped through him more than the spike of doton that had ripped through his flesh. Yoru’s nostrils flared with anger as he weaved a flurry of seals, as though he was going to create a powerful jutsu to end the neutralised Takeo, however he threw his arms either side as though he’d given up on the idea of completing the ninjutsu. Hopefully the pair would believe this, as he quickly worked grabbing the black string around from his neck, then looped through a ring. A gift that his sensei had given him long ago.

---

Takeo, then a young handsome man stood over his young red headed pupil holding out a pair of rings, both stamped with the Kanji for Suiton. Slipping one on his own finger he offered Yoru the other, who held it in his hand. “Heart and Mind like water, it’s about having a pure, noble heart but also about being able to stay calm, reacting only as necessary, and most importantly being able to adapt to any situation. Those are the keys to survival and to being a true ninja.”

Yoru smiled up at his sensei and slipped it over his middle finger “Thank you, Sensei. This means the world to me.” He gushed, as he looked down at the rings, a symbol of their bond and their training together. “You’re a good man Yoru, don’t ever lose your way.” Concluded Takeo sentimentally. How little Takeo knew that his actions would lead Yoru down the wrong path, the cause of him losing his way.

---

Yoru held the ring in his hand, it duplicated itself. Using his ability of sleight of hand the replicant of the ring, fell to the floor in front of Takeo. It would now work as an anchor between the two, hopefully the sleight of hand was enough to throw Takeo and Fanho off, believing it was the original. His hand pushed harder against the wound, wincing out in pain he'd need to get this looked at soon, even the smallest of wounds could cause problems.


“You have no idea what you’ve done to me Sensei, I’ve lost everything because of you.” His jaw clenched with anger, there were no more tears to come, just hatred his words, spat with venom as he locked eyes with the Bannin of Konoha “Fanho, don’t let this selfish, weak man bring our beloved village to its knees. Stop him, take his place.” He pleaded, before either of them could react his rang his fingers across the charms on his bracelet, warping him through space. Leaving the pair behind.


Leaving Konoha behind.

Jutsu UsedShow

Taijutsu • Oscillating Hand Seals
C-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Prerequisite: [Acrobatics & Deft Hands
The user has the ability to perform hand seals from almost any position, whilst flipping, spiralling and performing other acrobatic techniques. This allows the user to move backwards and prepare ninjutsu and the like without losing any momentum or speed.

[Flawless Aim Style • Safe Hands]
B-Rank Taijutsu Maneuver
Prerequisite: Deft Hands, Perception & 15 Speed
The user has an extensive knowledge on ninja tools and how they are used and where is safe to touch them. When a projectile is coming towards them, the user can predict the flight path of the tool and safely pluck the weapon out of the air, as long as their speed is equal or higher than the strength it is thrown at.

Taijutsu • Sleight of Hand
D-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Prerequisite: Deft Hands & 15 Speed
The user is a master when it comes to Sleight of Hand and misdirection and incredibly dexterous hand movements at an almost blinding speed. This gives them the ability to move items in and out of sight in an instant, steal from people, plant items, drug someone’s drink, etc. These movements are almost invisible to the naked eye.

*Recycle & Open Space: True Link
A-rank Jikukan Ninjutsu
The user will do a series of hand seals then place one hand on an any object small enough to fit in their grasp. Upon doing so, they will Recycle Space, creating an exact duplicate of that object. The duplicate of said object will act as an Anchor, turning both objects into links to each other. Should any party aside from the Architect come in contact with either anchor, they’ll be instantly transported to the other Anchor either a) they elect to or b) their control is less than the control of the Architect. The Architect can opt to use the Anchor at any point as well, should they so choose.