The young man watched the matches from the top of the stands, one leg crossed over the other. He had a long slew of accolades to his name, one of the most famous and accomplished shinobi in Kirigakure, his reputation only increased by his youth. Yet here he sat watching fairly mundane Chunin exams. These were Kirigakure exams at least so they were more entertaining than anything he would likely see anywhere else though still it was hard for someone to stand out much compared to himself even at that age. A few matches passed and he found himself pleased at least that this generation of shinobi did in fact seem to possess a strong killing intent but there wasn’t anything that stood out in way of unique talents to be honed. At least not until the match he had actually come to see. He had heard Kazuki Ryu was finally taking his exam. It had felt like an eternity since he had met the boy and told him to come to see him again once he was a Chunin.
Four, maybe even five years had passed since then. In fact, he had thought Ryu must have died during the war but to his surprise, some talk around the village about a former overseer’s son participating in the exam caught his ear. Now sitting as the current Overseer of the Seven, Shinjiro was always scouting for new talents, particularly those with allegiances to the Karagata family. And he knew of Ryu’s secret weapon, the one called ‘Hisan’ that lived within him. Some sort of parasitic entity that granted him a wide range of transformations. It was not too dissimilar from Shinji’s own skillset but more a likeness to Katsu’s current abilities, and Shinji was always looking for new sparring partners to replicate the failed hosts skillset for the time when he would inevitably face her again.
The young Jinchuuriki observed the use of Iaido, and the keen awareness of Genjutsu Ryu displayed. And then when the arena filled with mist it was the sounds that gave hints as to what was happening, water clones perhaps and more sword slashes. A thin smile crept across his face as the wave of acid forced Ryu to reveal his true power, the shell of flesh that manifested around him was fascinating, “Chisaki would like this one” he mused aloud, muttering under his breath. The thought became more prominent as the creature turned invisible. He wondered idly who was in control currently, or was it a joint venture? Likely the latter. With that utility, stealth and the appetite…’Perhaps better suited to the head hunters’ he contemplated. He held no ill will to the rival organization. It was run by his older cousin after all, the other legend of the Karagata family; Shiv. He was passed his prime, a relic of the past and now known as a drunk and a playboy but his years of service and deadly skill set nonetheless left the fellow Bannin with a reputation to be feared and respected. Beyond Shiv, however, Shinji had Chisaki to think of and those who could help support her in the field. Her involvement in HHD wasn’t known to many outside of the organization but Shinji was a bit more privy to certain information than most, not in the least in part to the fact that he was dating her.
The short match concluded with Hisan snaring their prey in tendrils and crushing their bones to what should have been submission. But perhaps in shock and terror the girl froze up, failing to accept defeat and live to fight another day and instead of having her head cleanly ripped from her neck. Unfortunate, for her, though she hadn’t displayed any exceptional talents that would be missed. The acid was noteworthy however and could have been an asset. Once the proctor officially declared the match, Shinji wasted no time in getting to his feet, vanishing in a flash to appear in the middle of the arena. “You’ll be coming with me” he declared suddenly, before glancing at the slumped corpse. “Dispose of it” he commanded callously. He was curious how quickly and cleanly it could consume a corpse, even if it was only a rather small girl. Still, weapons and all would be noteworthy. Some whispers throughout the crowd quickly grew into a roar of cheers and claps, partially for the display but more so in recognition of Shinjiro being in attendance. Moreover, his taking an interest in Ryu so publically would do wonders to skyrocket public interest in the young man, though thoughts such as fame and financing hadn’t even crossed Shinji’s mind.
[Graded] The Chosen
[Closed] Izanagi and Tydie
[Graded] The Chosen
Karagata Shinjiro - Kiri Bannin; Jinchuuriki, Overseer of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist, Kintsugi
Haziwara Youji- Iwagakure Chunin
Takeda Ichiro - A-Rank Waterfall Country; Black Wake, Chishiki, Setsuzoku
Hyuuga Takeshi - Konoha Special Jounin; Anbu
Jouchaku Shigeko - Kiri Genin; HHD
The Chosen
With the head taken cleanly off of the body, Hisan was just about to return to his place within Ryu, letting the boy bask in the accolades of his village. But before he could even wipe the blood from his mouth, a sudden flash of movement so fast it was scarcely even detectable put Ryu and Hisan immediately on edge. The Tendrils of Hisan's making, which had begun to recede, flared up once more like snakes prepared to strike, and a resounding "hiss" sound could be heard as Hisan opened it's mouth in shock at the sudden presence. And that was before either of the two minds realized who the presence was. "Shinjiii..." The voices of both Ryu and Hisan overlapped at once, both conveying the same annoyance in their tone. "What the hell do you mean?" Hisan spoke by himself now, tilting his head in confusion as he waited for some kind of response.
And then Shinji told Hisan to eat more. A glint of excitement shone through Hisan's eyes, and his long serpentine tongue whipped around his teeth.
"Heheheheh, you don't have to tell me twice!" In a flash Hisan reached down and tore into the the remains of the genin they had just defeated, ripping off an arm before shoving the entire limb down it's throat, the sounds of bones being crushed with each voracious chomp and blood covering the front of Hisan's chest. Then the other arm, then both legs, and finally the jaw truly unhinged to almost two full feet, tearing through the remains of the torso in the same gruesome fashion. By the end of it, the only piece of the body that was left was the stomach. All in all, it took maybe 90 seconds for Hisan to devour the entire corpse, and the whole time the crowd was gasping and moaning with disgust. A few people even vomited, but most looked away. "Hehehe... Save the best for last, right?" The creature spoke, blood spattering on the ground as his tongue whipped around in a frenzy before they plopped the stomach into their mouth with a satisfied groan. He'd keep licking his fingers, getting every drop of blood he could, before letting out a small burp. "...'scuse me? I think that's what you creatures say, right? Heh"
Inside, Ryu was mortified. Hisan's devouring was natural at this point, but to be commanded to do so by this prick... ugh. He'd never get over this embarrassment. "Well... Now what, hmm?" The gurgly voice of Hisan rose up to question the Jinchuuriki.
And then Shinji told Hisan to eat more. A glint of excitement shone through Hisan's eyes, and his long serpentine tongue whipped around his teeth.
"Heheheheh, you don't have to tell me twice!" In a flash Hisan reached down and tore into the the remains of the genin they had just defeated, ripping off an arm before shoving the entire limb down it's throat, the sounds of bones being crushed with each voracious chomp and blood covering the front of Hisan's chest. Then the other arm, then both legs, and finally the jaw truly unhinged to almost two full feet, tearing through the remains of the torso in the same gruesome fashion. By the end of it, the only piece of the body that was left was the stomach. All in all, it took maybe 90 seconds for Hisan to devour the entire corpse, and the whole time the crowd was gasping and moaning with disgust. A few people even vomited, but most looked away. "Hehehe... Save the best for last, right?" The creature spoke, blood spattering on the ground as his tongue whipped around in a frenzy before they plopped the stomach into their mouth with a satisfied groan. He'd keep licking his fingers, getting every drop of blood he could, before letting out a small burp. "...'scuse me? I think that's what you creatures say, right? Heh"
Inside, Ryu was mortified. Hisan's devouring was natural at this point, but to be commanded to do so by this prick... ugh. He'd never get over this embarrassment. "Well... Now what, hmm?" The gurgly voice of Hisan rose up to question the Jinchuuriki.
| Active Characters | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Village of Origin | Character Name & Link | Rank | Color |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Henrin Emi | Genin | [color=darkgoldenrod][b][/b][/color] |
| Konohagakure no Sato | Ibakuro Aiya | Chuunin | [color=#8CD600][/color] |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Kouseki Takuma | Genin | [color=#003893][b][/b][/color], [b][color=#AFBCDB][/color][/b] |
| Kirigakure no Sato | Kazuki Ryu | Chuunin | [color=#dc143c][/color], [b][color=#C71585][/color][/b] |
| Hiraku Kenji | [b][color=slategray][/color][/b] | ||
| Fukusha Jinsai | Jounin | [color=#BF0000][/color], [b][glow=orangered][color=#000000][/color][/glow][/b] | |
The Chosen
Shinjiro stared back at the creature, for such vibrant green eyes his gaze could be remarkably cold. For a moment the voice seemed different, layered similar to his own when the Genma cloak surrounded him. Perhaps their arrangement allowed for the parasite to gain more or less influence depending on Ryu’s will, the creature allowing him to regain control willingly when desired. It was a truer symbiotic relationship than the one Shinjiro had with Vorashu who was always waiting for any sign of weakness to overwhelm Shinji’s will and release his full power, killing the Jinchuuriki in the process. Nonetheless,there were situations where the spirit and host could collaborate but there was no true trust or friendship between the two.
There was not a single moment of squeamishness or disgust as the Jinchuuriki observed the vicious dismantling of the young girl. It was a shame to lose young talents that could serve the village, but it was a natural part of Kirigakure’s process. His own younger brother had been killed in his Chunin exam and his younger sister had died before even being given the opportunity. Since the death of those two, nobody else had been brought into the household for training, any other siblings he may have had left to their own fate, unacknowledged. Shinjiro had gained great honor and recognition, surpassing his two surviving older siblings and even his own father. The Karagata name was stronger than ever, one of the most influential and wealthy families in the world. And all of that fortune and influence were at his fingertips. “A bit slow” he commented, “But acceptable” he decided, noticing that only a pool of blood, some scraps of clothes, and the girl's weapons pouch remained. His own disposal times varied wildly depending on which transformed state he was in, though since becoming a member of the seven he had been tasked with fewer assassination missions, instead being tasked with capturing key hostages and causing devastation on battlefields. Some of the other swordsmen were used as bodyguards or escorting key shipments though rarely did he get pulled for those types of duties. His presence was best utilized in striking fear and submission into the hearts of Kirigakure’s enemies.
The swordsman turned and waved for the creature to follow. There were other matches to be held after all. “Years ago, I told you I’d assess your potential once you became a Chunin. That time has come.” He stated simply, casually he would leave through the arena, going out the back way as some fans called out for requests of autographs. “We’ll be doing some training in the outer district” he informed. He wasn’t sure if he would want to change form at all. There would be a fair way of walking as they made their way toward the merchant district and then out to the outer ring. He would answer any immediate questions Ryu or Hisan might have had and then after about another half an hour of walking in silence would ask on a whim, “What are your goals as a shinobi Ryu? What drives you?” he wondered, attempting to get a preliminary sense of his mindset. It had been years since last they met and any tensions between them before were now insignificant to Shinji. He could hardly even remember the boy’s sister or the brief interest he had shown in her.
There was not a single moment of squeamishness or disgust as the Jinchuuriki observed the vicious dismantling of the young girl. It was a shame to lose young talents that could serve the village, but it was a natural part of Kirigakure’s process. His own younger brother had been killed in his Chunin exam and his younger sister had died before even being given the opportunity. Since the death of those two, nobody else had been brought into the household for training, any other siblings he may have had left to their own fate, unacknowledged. Shinjiro had gained great honor and recognition, surpassing his two surviving older siblings and even his own father. The Karagata name was stronger than ever, one of the most influential and wealthy families in the world. And all of that fortune and influence were at his fingertips. “A bit slow” he commented, “But acceptable” he decided, noticing that only a pool of blood, some scraps of clothes, and the girl's weapons pouch remained. His own disposal times varied wildly depending on which transformed state he was in, though since becoming a member of the seven he had been tasked with fewer assassination missions, instead being tasked with capturing key hostages and causing devastation on battlefields. Some of the other swordsmen were used as bodyguards or escorting key shipments though rarely did he get pulled for those types of duties. His presence was best utilized in striking fear and submission into the hearts of Kirigakure’s enemies.
The swordsman turned and waved for the creature to follow. There were other matches to be held after all. “Years ago, I told you I’d assess your potential once you became a Chunin. That time has come.” He stated simply, casually he would leave through the arena, going out the back way as some fans called out for requests of autographs. “We’ll be doing some training in the outer district” he informed. He wasn’t sure if he would want to change form at all. There would be a fair way of walking as they made their way toward the merchant district and then out to the outer ring. He would answer any immediate questions Ryu or Hisan might have had and then after about another half an hour of walking in silence would ask on a whim, “What are your goals as a shinobi Ryu? What drives you?” he wondered, attempting to get a preliminary sense of his mindset. It had been years since last they met and any tensions between them before were now insignificant to Shinji. He could hardly even remember the boy’s sister or the brief interest he had shown in her.
Karagata Shinjiro - Kiri Bannin; Jinchuuriki, Overseer of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist, Kintsugi
Haziwara Youji- Iwagakure Chunin
Takeda Ichiro - A-Rank Waterfall Country; Black Wake, Chishiki, Setsuzoku
Hyuuga Takeshi - Konoha Special Jounin; Anbu
Jouchaku Shigeko - Kiri Genin; HHD
The Chosen
Hisan tilts his head in surprise as his quick devouring of the genin's body was seen as 'slow', but he responded with a small laugh. "Heh, I was trying not to make much of a mess. I'll drop the table manners next time." Hisan licked it's teeth as it finished, letting out a small gurgle sound which, Ryu had learned, was a 'happy' noise. The green eyed shinobi motioned for Hisan to follow, clearing out the platform so that others could fight to attain their rank ups, and with a grumble Hisan did as asked. As they moved towards the back exit, and the people were asking for autographs from the infamous Shinjiro, Ryu was surprised to find that there were a couple of people wanting his autograph too. Fans of the Seven who recognized Ryu's Surname no doubt, realizing that his father was the one who resurrected the organization. That, or they figured Ryu would continue to grow and gain fame, and his signature would be worth something later. Either way, Ryu and Hisan were too focused on Shinjiro's projected 'assessment' of his abilities to sign anything right now.
Once they were out of line of sight, heading for the exit to the building, Ryu finally emerged from Hisan as the creature receded within him, leaving the red haired boy with red and black eyes in full control once again. "What do you mean "assessment"? You just watched me win my exam, practically untouched I might add. What more could you want to see from me?" Nevermind the fact that Ryu was still pissed at Shinjiro for the situation involving his sister, he had just been taken from what should've been a glorious moment and told that he was going to be assessed again. He'd hoped that Shinjiro would've at least let him enjoy his victory for a moment... The rest of their trip would've been silent, as Ryu pondered what on earth Shinjiro could have in story for this 'assessment',
Eventually, the jinchuuriki asked a rather odd question. What drives him? "My father. He was one of the greatest shinobi this village has ever seen, and if I can be anything like him I will be too. Wherever he is now, I want to show him that his legacy still lives. I want to make him proud..." It wasn't much of a secret that Ryu aspired to emulate his father, Overseer Ryoga. But he wasn't usually so forthcoming with the emotional details surrounding that aspiration. Why he was willing to share those details with someone like Shinjiro, Ryu wasn't sure, but for some reason he felt the need to answer the question truthfully. He wasn't sure where they were going, or what Shinjiro had in mind, but deep down Ryu had a feeling it had something to do with the Swordsmen...
Once they were out of line of sight, heading for the exit to the building, Ryu finally emerged from Hisan as the creature receded within him, leaving the red haired boy with red and black eyes in full control once again. "What do you mean "assessment"? You just watched me win my exam, practically untouched I might add. What more could you want to see from me?" Nevermind the fact that Ryu was still pissed at Shinjiro for the situation involving his sister, he had just been taken from what should've been a glorious moment and told that he was going to be assessed again. He'd hoped that Shinjiro would've at least let him enjoy his victory for a moment... The rest of their trip would've been silent, as Ryu pondered what on earth Shinjiro could have in story for this 'assessment',
Eventually, the jinchuuriki asked a rather odd question. What drives him? "My father. He was one of the greatest shinobi this village has ever seen, and if I can be anything like him I will be too. Wherever he is now, I want to show him that his legacy still lives. I want to make him proud..." It wasn't much of a secret that Ryu aspired to emulate his father, Overseer Ryoga. But he wasn't usually so forthcoming with the emotional details surrounding that aspiration. Why he was willing to share those details with someone like Shinjiro, Ryu wasn't sure, but for some reason he felt the need to answer the question truthfully. He wasn't sure where they were going, or what Shinjiro had in mind, but deep down Ryu had a feeling it had something to do with the Swordsmen...
| Active Characters | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Village of Origin | Character Name & Link | Rank | Color |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Henrin Emi | Genin | [color=darkgoldenrod][b][/b][/color] |
| Konohagakure no Sato | Ibakuro Aiya | Chuunin | [color=#8CD600][/color] |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Kouseki Takuma | Genin | [color=#003893][b][/b][/color], [b][color=#AFBCDB][/color][/b] |
| Kirigakure no Sato | Kazuki Ryu | Chuunin | [color=#dc143c][/color], [b][color=#C71585][/color][/b] |
| Hiraku Kenji | [b][color=slategray][/color][/b] | ||
| Fukusha Jinsai | Jounin | [color=#BF0000][/color], [b][glow=orangered][color=#000000][/color][/glow][/b] | |
The Chosen
Shinjiro was not surprised in the least that Ryu was already gathering a fanbase, shinobi status was a commodity in of itself within Kirigakure. Merchants used popular shinobi to promote their goods or sell their likeness on figures and clothing, there was even a lucrative betting system placing value on promotions and success in their career. No doubt many people made money on Ryu’s victory. Being a Chunin now and with his lineage and talents he would be talked about and watched closely, perhaps even sponsored. Shinji had been only 11 when he was thrust into the spotlight of fame, becoming a Chunin at that age in a decisive victory and promptly being sealed with Vorashu. He wondered how Ryu would handle the pressure and the fame.
The swordsman of the seven shrugged as Ryu explained his accomplishment, “You beat a Genin, so what?” he replied dryly, at Ryu’s age Shinji had killed a dragon and survived clashes with several S-rank shinobi as well as defeated Jounin in battle, but more than that he had worked alongside and against shinobi from each of the great nations all without any repercussions brought back onto Kirigakure. “Being a valuable shinobi is about more than just winning one fight” he scolded lightly. There were other ways to be tested. He wanted to know the kind of character and grit Ryu had as well as what his tendencies were and therefore how best he would be utilized.
As the two moved through the merchant district the stares and crowds grew much more frequent. Here it was far rarer to see a shinobi of Shinjiro’s caliber. Typically, he didn’t bother actually walking at a normal pace, either moving through beyond their perception or flying above as a bird. Here however it seemed most had enough fear and respect to not approach him directly. The young man smirked in amusement as he noticed an attractive dark-haired woman gathered around with her friends outside a clothing store. She wore a deep green shirt with his likeness depicted on it, swords drawn, and his name escribed above his picture, and on the back of the shirt the design of the Kraken of the Karagata sigil. It was a design he had seen before and of the half dozen or so most common prints, it was his favorite. In a flash of motion his hand dipped to draw and flick one of his custom 6-pronged shuriken, slicing the girl's arm and shirt about an inch deep before sticking with a thwack into the wooden building. After the initial surprise, he was sure the weapon and the scar would be a welcome treasure for her to cherish. He didn’t care much for commoners, but it served him well to keep his reputation held in high regard by his fans.
He listened to Ryu’s explanation. “As good a reason as any I suppose” he admitted, even Shinji had become strong largely to make his father proud. The man was strict and cruel, but he was strong and would stop at nothing to ensure his children would be molded into elite warriors. He instilled an indomitable sense of respect for family legacy, loyalty and conviction to the doctrines of Kirigakure. “I’m not old enough to have known your father but as the strongest of the sevens current roster, I too want to build off of his legacy and elevate the seven to the strength and glory of generations passed.” He spoke with conviction, even a hint of passion. Growing up Shinjiro had been trained as an assassin and had always imagined himself being recruited into the head-hunter division, but fate had other things in store for him. He wondered what path Ryu would ultimately walk.
The two would continue walking for some time as they made their way through the merchant district. Along the way he picked up a few snacks and various other goods that vendors kept insisting on giving him for free. Before long he had a bag full of various treats and packaged snacks, even a few little odds and ends. Normally he would reject such things, but he was feeling in a good mood today. The late afternoon air was cool and refreshing as the gentle breeze and light rolling mists wafted through the streets. Of course, as they moved through the gate to the outer district the air suddenly felt heavier, despite being a much stronger breeze now that they were outside the walls the smells it carried were heavy and muddled together in unpleasant ways. Those that lived out here, save for the workers dedicated to his family, were little more than animals. Some had uses, but most were outcasts and degenerates. Still, he felt pity for them and for a brief first two years of his life Shinjiro had even lived among such mongrels. “It’s a good day to die, don’t you think?” he mused, staring out at the expanse of rundown shacks, garbage and drugged-up vagrants wandering about. This wouldn’t be as simple as a mindless killing spree, that wasn’t his style. There were better ways to release stress than that. But blood would be spilled, of that there was no question.
The swordsman of the seven shrugged as Ryu explained his accomplishment, “You beat a Genin, so what?” he replied dryly, at Ryu’s age Shinji had killed a dragon and survived clashes with several S-rank shinobi as well as defeated Jounin in battle, but more than that he had worked alongside and against shinobi from each of the great nations all without any repercussions brought back onto Kirigakure. “Being a valuable shinobi is about more than just winning one fight” he scolded lightly. There were other ways to be tested. He wanted to know the kind of character and grit Ryu had as well as what his tendencies were and therefore how best he would be utilized.
As the two moved through the merchant district the stares and crowds grew much more frequent. Here it was far rarer to see a shinobi of Shinjiro’s caliber. Typically, he didn’t bother actually walking at a normal pace, either moving through beyond their perception or flying above as a bird. Here however it seemed most had enough fear and respect to not approach him directly. The young man smirked in amusement as he noticed an attractive dark-haired woman gathered around with her friends outside a clothing store. She wore a deep green shirt with his likeness depicted on it, swords drawn, and his name escribed above his picture, and on the back of the shirt the design of the Kraken of the Karagata sigil. It was a design he had seen before and of the half dozen or so most common prints, it was his favorite. In a flash of motion his hand dipped to draw and flick one of his custom 6-pronged shuriken, slicing the girl's arm and shirt about an inch deep before sticking with a thwack into the wooden building. After the initial surprise, he was sure the weapon and the scar would be a welcome treasure for her to cherish. He didn’t care much for commoners, but it served him well to keep his reputation held in high regard by his fans.
He listened to Ryu’s explanation. “As good a reason as any I suppose” he admitted, even Shinji had become strong largely to make his father proud. The man was strict and cruel, but he was strong and would stop at nothing to ensure his children would be molded into elite warriors. He instilled an indomitable sense of respect for family legacy, loyalty and conviction to the doctrines of Kirigakure. “I’m not old enough to have known your father but as the strongest of the sevens current roster, I too want to build off of his legacy and elevate the seven to the strength and glory of generations passed.” He spoke with conviction, even a hint of passion. Growing up Shinjiro had been trained as an assassin and had always imagined himself being recruited into the head-hunter division, but fate had other things in store for him. He wondered what path Ryu would ultimately walk.
The two would continue walking for some time as they made their way through the merchant district. Along the way he picked up a few snacks and various other goods that vendors kept insisting on giving him for free. Before long he had a bag full of various treats and packaged snacks, even a few little odds and ends. Normally he would reject such things, but he was feeling in a good mood today. The late afternoon air was cool and refreshing as the gentle breeze and light rolling mists wafted through the streets. Of course, as they moved through the gate to the outer district the air suddenly felt heavier, despite being a much stronger breeze now that they were outside the walls the smells it carried were heavy and muddled together in unpleasant ways. Those that lived out here, save for the workers dedicated to his family, were little more than animals. Some had uses, but most were outcasts and degenerates. Still, he felt pity for them and for a brief first two years of his life Shinjiro had even lived among such mongrels. “It’s a good day to die, don’t you think?” he mused, staring out at the expanse of rundown shacks, garbage and drugged-up vagrants wandering about. This wouldn’t be as simple as a mindless killing spree, that wasn’t his style. There were better ways to release stress than that. But blood would be spilled, of that there was no question.
Karagata Shinjiro - Kiri Bannin; Jinchuuriki, Overseer of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist, Kintsugi
Haziwara Youji- Iwagakure Chunin
Takeda Ichiro - A-Rank Waterfall Country; Black Wake, Chishiki, Setsuzoku
Hyuuga Takeshi - Konoha Special Jounin; Anbu
Jouchaku Shigeko - Kiri Genin; HHD
The Chosen
Ryu started to protest about Shinjiro's simplification of his accomplishment... but in reality, the jinchuuriki was right. Certainly, he would be promoted to Chuunin now, and likely gain some fans of his own. He had no doubt either that he would end up sponsored; after all, he wasn't just the Son of a former Overseer, he was also a very unique shinobi in his own right... largely thanks to Hisan. He stood out among the crowd, and standing out attracted attention that a sponsor would no doubt find valuable. "You know Shinjiro... You're a dick. But you're right." He didn't care if Shinjiro took offense to what he said; ultimately the green eyed shinobi had to know it was true. "There's still a long way to go to the top. I'm still going to savor my victory and relish in my promotion, but I can't get a big head over what will end up being such a small footnote in my path to success."
He had taken a life - or, rather, Hisan had - and yet he couldn't let himself get hyped up over it. There was definitely going to be a lot more death in his future, and if he had anything to say about it, not one of them would be his. As they made their way to whatever this ultimate destination would be, Shinji took a moment to make an impact on some fangirl's life, tossing a shuriken and ripping her shirt, as well as some skin. Though she bled a bit at first, and started to protest, after she saw who threw it she flocked to the shuriken and quickly removed it from the wall, squealing like an idiot the entire time. "Tch... You could have your pick of almost anyone in this village. Hard to believe you were after my dorky sister, heh." He didn't know who he was interested in now, and truth be told he didn't care. Amaya was safe, so his promise to his father was still in tact.
The fiery red head was a bit taken aback as Shinji actually seemed to pay respects to his late father. For a moment, the boy's usual tension was calmed, recollections of his time spent with his father flooding his mind. "... He was a good man. Harsh, strict, but fair. I have no shame in admitting I miss him, I only wish I could have learned more from him before he died." He had almost forgotten that Shinjiro was a part of the seven now, and now that he realized it, some part of him wondered... what was this evaluation really about? He'd soon find out it seemed, as the two arrived in the outer district of the village. This place was wrought with crime and death, only the undesirables called this place home. Even most slaves lived better than these people, strung out druggies and intoxicated drunkards. He made it a point to avoid this place, but in truth he bore these people no ill will. As Shinjiro spoke though, Ryu tilted his head for a moment in confusion, but quickly put two and two together.
"...Any day is a good day to die, so long as that death elevates Kiri." He wasn't sure exactly what the jinchuuriki had planned, but it didn't take much to figure out that the genin he had slain wasn't going to be the only life he took today.
He had taken a life - or, rather, Hisan had - and yet he couldn't let himself get hyped up over it. There was definitely going to be a lot more death in his future, and if he had anything to say about it, not one of them would be his. As they made their way to whatever this ultimate destination would be, Shinji took a moment to make an impact on some fangirl's life, tossing a shuriken and ripping her shirt, as well as some skin. Though she bled a bit at first, and started to protest, after she saw who threw it she flocked to the shuriken and quickly removed it from the wall, squealing like an idiot the entire time. "Tch... You could have your pick of almost anyone in this village. Hard to believe you were after my dorky sister, heh." He didn't know who he was interested in now, and truth be told he didn't care. Amaya was safe, so his promise to his father was still in tact.
The fiery red head was a bit taken aback as Shinji actually seemed to pay respects to his late father. For a moment, the boy's usual tension was calmed, recollections of his time spent with his father flooding his mind. "... He was a good man. Harsh, strict, but fair. I have no shame in admitting I miss him, I only wish I could have learned more from him before he died." He had almost forgotten that Shinjiro was a part of the seven now, and now that he realized it, some part of him wondered... what was this evaluation really about? He'd soon find out it seemed, as the two arrived in the outer district of the village. This place was wrought with crime and death, only the undesirables called this place home. Even most slaves lived better than these people, strung out druggies and intoxicated drunkards. He made it a point to avoid this place, but in truth he bore these people no ill will. As Shinjiro spoke though, Ryu tilted his head for a moment in confusion, but quickly put two and two together.
"...Any day is a good day to die, so long as that death elevates Kiri." He wasn't sure exactly what the jinchuuriki had planned, but it didn't take much to figure out that the genin he had slain wasn't going to be the only life he took today.
| Active Characters | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Village of Origin | Character Name & Link | Rank | Color |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Henrin Emi | Genin | [color=darkgoldenrod][b][/b][/color] |
| Konohagakure no Sato | Ibakuro Aiya | Chuunin | [color=#8CD600][/color] |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Kouseki Takuma | Genin | [color=#003893][b][/b][/color], [b][color=#AFBCDB][/color][/b] |
| Kirigakure no Sato | Kazuki Ryu | Chuunin | [color=#dc143c][/color], [b][color=#C71585][/color][/b] |
| Hiraku Kenji | [b][color=slategray][/color][/b] | ||
| Fukusha Jinsai | Jounin | [color=#BF0000][/color], [b][glow=orangered][color=#000000][/color][/glow][/b] | |
The Chosen
Shinjiro nodded in agreement as Ryu seemed to understand the more experienced shinobi’s perspective, “Good. Sensible” he stated simply. He had nothing against celebrating, it was important to let loose now and then and enjoy the status one earned. But it was important to remember one’s place in the world and not think too highly of one’s accomplishments, even someone as legendary as himself was expendable. There would always be another prodigy, another Bannin to rise and fill his place. Kirigakure didn’t rely on any one shinobi, Kage and Bannin frequently killed one another or simply defected when they became bored from the constraints of the village. But that climb for power meant there were always others eager to fill important roles. That being said he had found it somewhat difficult to fill the ranks of the seven with truly fearsome swordsmen. Too many only cared about themselves, not wanting to work within an organization that frequently paired members together on assignments or took on guard duty for rich assholes.
The 20-year-old celebrity didn’t even bother looking back at the fan, he couldn’t imagine ever having any interest in a civilian. He had utilized the services of brothels before, though only the more expensive ones that provided quality women but that was entirely different from having any interest in anything other than physical satisfaction. When it came to women that were actually important to him there was a very short list, he supposed his sister Chiasa mattered to him; despite hating her she was still family. Then there was Asami, his former dagger and newest member of the seven. For her he shared a close bond of comradery and trust earned in combat. He had been physically involved with her on several occasions, relishing in the lust that came after battle and certainly there was something more fulfilling and meaningful there compared to his experience with prostitutes, that level of understanding and even a protective nature he felt over her. There too was Maido whom Shinji both feared and respected, she had earned his loyalty and proven to be a dependable sort, if a little chaotic, which fueled his sense of adventure. Lastly was his first and current girlfriend Chisaki, who was as damaged and deranged as he was, he found comfort in that and a longing to protect whatever shreds of childlike innocence she had left. He cared for her, though still wasn’t sure he could say he truly knew what it was to love someone. But he did know that each of those women he would put his life on the line for without hesitation. At the mention of Ryu’s sister, Amaya, was it? Shinji recalled a sense of his own innocence, the comfort he had felt and the first kiss he had experienced. It was a pleasant memory but one he had put behind him. “She was kind to me, before she even knew who I was” he recalled with a nostalgic softness. He would rather she remained alive if he could help it.
Contrary to popular belief there was a heart inside Shinjiro and in his own way he did have some close attachments. However, he had learned to cope with loss and even force himself to kill his attachments when it became necessary. He had accepted what he was, what the world was and Ryu would have to do the same if he wished to become a legend of Kirigakure. “You have potential Ryu, you’ll have to carve your own path now, discover who you truly are” he encouraged, and warned. Even someone raised in Kirigakure, trained to kill, and found themselves up to the task, could easily fall short when their identity was truly tested. What sort of morals did Ryu have, he wondered. What sort of crutches and vulnerabilities? Just how much innocence did he retain and what would he be willing to sacrifice to achieve his goals? When they made their way to the outer district, Shinji found himself satisfied with the boy’s answer, but did he truly mean that? He would find out what it really took to break the young man. Everyone had something. “I want you to kill someone. Anyone” he spoke softly, he didn’t expect this to be much of a surprise, though he was interested in what criteria Ryu would use in determining who was least deserving of life. Or would he simply kill the closest person like a mindless tool? There was no inherently wrong choice, it was simply a test to better understand his way of thinking. “You have 10 minutes” he allowed.
The 20-year-old celebrity didn’t even bother looking back at the fan, he couldn’t imagine ever having any interest in a civilian. He had utilized the services of brothels before, though only the more expensive ones that provided quality women but that was entirely different from having any interest in anything other than physical satisfaction. When it came to women that were actually important to him there was a very short list, he supposed his sister Chiasa mattered to him; despite hating her she was still family. Then there was Asami, his former dagger and newest member of the seven. For her he shared a close bond of comradery and trust earned in combat. He had been physically involved with her on several occasions, relishing in the lust that came after battle and certainly there was something more fulfilling and meaningful there compared to his experience with prostitutes, that level of understanding and even a protective nature he felt over her. There too was Maido whom Shinji both feared and respected, she had earned his loyalty and proven to be a dependable sort, if a little chaotic, which fueled his sense of adventure. Lastly was his first and current girlfriend Chisaki, who was as damaged and deranged as he was, he found comfort in that and a longing to protect whatever shreds of childlike innocence she had left. He cared for her, though still wasn’t sure he could say he truly knew what it was to love someone. But he did know that each of those women he would put his life on the line for without hesitation. At the mention of Ryu’s sister, Amaya, was it? Shinji recalled a sense of his own innocence, the comfort he had felt and the first kiss he had experienced. It was a pleasant memory but one he had put behind him. “She was kind to me, before she even knew who I was” he recalled with a nostalgic softness. He would rather she remained alive if he could help it.
Contrary to popular belief there was a heart inside Shinjiro and in his own way he did have some close attachments. However, he had learned to cope with loss and even force himself to kill his attachments when it became necessary. He had accepted what he was, what the world was and Ryu would have to do the same if he wished to become a legend of Kirigakure. “You have potential Ryu, you’ll have to carve your own path now, discover who you truly are” he encouraged, and warned. Even someone raised in Kirigakure, trained to kill, and found themselves up to the task, could easily fall short when their identity was truly tested. What sort of morals did Ryu have, he wondered. What sort of crutches and vulnerabilities? Just how much innocence did he retain and what would he be willing to sacrifice to achieve his goals? When they made their way to the outer district, Shinji found himself satisfied with the boy’s answer, but did he truly mean that? He would find out what it really took to break the young man. Everyone had something. “I want you to kill someone. Anyone” he spoke softly, he didn’t expect this to be much of a surprise, though he was interested in what criteria Ryu would use in determining who was least deserving of life. Or would he simply kill the closest person like a mindless tool? There was no inherently wrong choice, it was simply a test to better understand his way of thinking. “You have 10 minutes” he allowed.
Karagata Shinjiro - Kiri Bannin; Jinchuuriki, Overseer of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist, Kintsugi
Haziwara Youji- Iwagakure Chunin
Takeda Ichiro - A-Rank Waterfall Country; Black Wake, Chishiki, Setsuzoku
Hyuuga Takeshi - Konoha Special Jounin; Anbu
Jouchaku Shigeko - Kiri Genin; HHD
The Chosen
Ryu wanted to be upset with Shinjiro for the way he was with his sister so long ago, but Ryu had also never seen Shinji like this. For a moment, the jinchuuriki seemed to be more human than beast. That look in his eye as he recalled his time with Amaya so fondly made Ryu think for a moment... was he the asshole back then? Probably. Hehheh. As always, Hisan wasn't very helpful when it came to reflective thoughts. But regardless of that, it appeared that Shinji had a task to give the pair of them now; Kill. A simple, easy to follow order; find someone and kill them. "...Is this some kind of joke? These people can barely fend for themselves, slaughtering one of them would be simple." Ryu didn't quite understand what Shinjiro was after, but Hisan was of course eager to kill. A protrusion of fleshy tendrils emerged from Ryu's shoulder and took form between Ryu and Shinjiro, taking the form of Hisan's skull.
"So? Who cares! Lambs to the slaughter, lambs for my belly. Let's just go find some sap in an alley and make him disappear, hehehehe!" Ryu wanted to protest, but the order had been given, and the timer started. So, without further complaint, Ryu would hop across a few buildings in search of a suitable target to eliminate. Another life to take. "You make it sound so grim, Ryu. It's not that big of a deal, there's millions of you guys on this planet right? What's one life worth, especially in this run down side of the village?" Ryu sighed as the symbiote made clear how he felt about the situation; which was to say, he didn't feel at all about it, as long as he got to eat who they killed.
"It isn't that simple. My mother would've come from an area like this. She was a slave. I'm okay with killing people who deserve to die, but..." "You're overthinking it kid. It's really not that difficult, with me you won't even be seen doing it until it's too late! Come on, just hop down into this alley right here. I'm sure we'll find some drunk or something." Ryu closed his eyes and took a deep breath as he looked down at the alley Hisan had pointed out, and sure enough there was a man stumbling about down there. Ryu wasn't sure if he was drunk or under the influence of some other drug; out here in the outer ring, criminal enterprises like drugs were healthy and strong. "Well there you go, Ryu. Ripe for the picking. Now come on, let me out to play!"
"No."
Ryu pointedly put the creature within down this time, a stern sound to his voice as he was through being treated like he couldn't stomach the task at hand. "You already killed one person today, and ate her too I might add. I can't have you getting spoiled by the taste of human flesh, and who knows what chemicals this guy has coursing through his veins right now? No, we're not eating this one; consider his meat rotten." Hisan let out an exasperated groan at the logic, not caring too much one way or the other what Ryu thought. But in this instance, Ryu's will was strong, and he wasn't going to relent and sit back while Hisan took the reins. "Uuuugh... Fine. Waste the meat. See if I care." A few more grumbles, and Hisan would go totally silent... Leaving Ryu to the task.
Ordinarily, Ryu would want to give someone a chance to defend themself... But ordinarily, he'd be fighting someone who could defend themselves. In this instance, he didn't see a drunkard as being capable of a real defense. So instead, from the rooftop, he'd simply take a Kunai and whip it with impressive force down into the alleyway. A moment later there was a soft "URK" as the kunai found it's way into the base of the man's skull, severing the brain stem almost instantly. He fell down to the dirt, a small pool of blood forming around him as he lay there, unmoving, and very much dead.
The whole act took, maybe, 6 or 7 minutes.
"So? Who cares! Lambs to the slaughter, lambs for my belly. Let's just go find some sap in an alley and make him disappear, hehehehe!" Ryu wanted to protest, but the order had been given, and the timer started. So, without further complaint, Ryu would hop across a few buildings in search of a suitable target to eliminate. Another life to take. "You make it sound so grim, Ryu. It's not that big of a deal, there's millions of you guys on this planet right? What's one life worth, especially in this run down side of the village?" Ryu sighed as the symbiote made clear how he felt about the situation; which was to say, he didn't feel at all about it, as long as he got to eat who they killed.
"It isn't that simple. My mother would've come from an area like this. She was a slave. I'm okay with killing people who deserve to die, but..." "You're overthinking it kid. It's really not that difficult, with me you won't even be seen doing it until it's too late! Come on, just hop down into this alley right here. I'm sure we'll find some drunk or something." Ryu closed his eyes and took a deep breath as he looked down at the alley Hisan had pointed out, and sure enough there was a man stumbling about down there. Ryu wasn't sure if he was drunk or under the influence of some other drug; out here in the outer ring, criminal enterprises like drugs were healthy and strong. "Well there you go, Ryu. Ripe for the picking. Now come on, let me out to play!"
"No."
Ryu pointedly put the creature within down this time, a stern sound to his voice as he was through being treated like he couldn't stomach the task at hand. "You already killed one person today, and ate her too I might add. I can't have you getting spoiled by the taste of human flesh, and who knows what chemicals this guy has coursing through his veins right now? No, we're not eating this one; consider his meat rotten." Hisan let out an exasperated groan at the logic, not caring too much one way or the other what Ryu thought. But in this instance, Ryu's will was strong, and he wasn't going to relent and sit back while Hisan took the reins. "Uuuugh... Fine. Waste the meat. See if I care." A few more grumbles, and Hisan would go totally silent... Leaving Ryu to the task.
Ordinarily, Ryu would want to give someone a chance to defend themself... But ordinarily, he'd be fighting someone who could defend themselves. In this instance, he didn't see a drunkard as being capable of a real defense. So instead, from the rooftop, he'd simply take a Kunai and whip it with impressive force down into the alleyway. A moment later there was a soft "URK" as the kunai found it's way into the base of the man's skull, severing the brain stem almost instantly. He fell down to the dirt, a small pool of blood forming around him as he lay there, unmoving, and very much dead.
The whole act took, maybe, 6 or 7 minutes.
| Active Characters | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Village of Origin | Character Name & Link | Rank | Color |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Henrin Emi | Genin | [color=darkgoldenrod][b][/b][/color] |
| Konohagakure no Sato | Ibakuro Aiya | Chuunin | [color=#8CD600][/color] |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Kouseki Takuma | Genin | [color=#003893][b][/b][/color], [b][color=#AFBCDB][/color][/b] |
| Kirigakure no Sato | Kazuki Ryu | Chuunin | [color=#dc143c][/color], [b][color=#C71585][/color][/b] |
| Hiraku Kenji | [b][color=slategray][/color][/b] | ||
| Fukusha Jinsai | Jounin | [color=#BF0000][/color], [b][glow=orangered][color=#000000][/color][/glow][/b] | |
The Chosen
Shinjiro looked upon the newly promoted Chunin with cold, empty eyes. Technically he didn’t actually order Ryu to kill anyone, only expressing his desire to see him do so. He was curious to see how by the book he was, what killing meant to him, and his own thought process around such actions. It seemed the boy held some empathy toward those that were weak, there was nothing wrong with that, but it was something to note. More interesting was that he seemed to be under the impression that Shinjiro was testing his combat ability, that being a shinobi was primarily about who was the strongest and what level of opponents they were able to kill. While that may be true in some cases and certainly went a long way in working their way up the chain of command, in truth being a good shinobi was more dependant on being able to follow orders and act as a tool for the village, whatever that demanded of them.
Certainly, the being inside of Ryu, whose name escaped him for the moment, was well suited toward the head-hunters. It seemed always eager to kill with no moral restraints and it was suitable for disposing of bodies. Would Ryu continue to rely on the creature within to do his dirty work? Or did he have what it took to stand out on his own: warrior, assassin, tool. What was his true calling? He wondered. Moving swiftly and silently, Shinjiro shadowed them as they moved, close enough to overhear their conversation and making mental notes of the interactions. The part about Ryu’s mother interested him, he had forgotten that they had that in common. Though he found it disrespectful that he seemed to think all slaves came from the untouchable district, most here were not worthy of being slaves, they were far less. Slaves had purpose, value, his own household slaves were treated better and held in higher regard than most common citizens of water country.
The hooded shinobi watched curiously as Ryu picked his target, predictable but not a bad choice. Just another worthless drug addict, it was just a matter of time before he overdosed anyway, and it wasn’t like there was anyone out here that would care enough to get him help to turn his life around. In Shinji’s mind he was no different than one of Chisaki’s zombies, just that he hadn’t served any purpose until this point. Now his life would have a brief meaning, to be used as a training tool to hone a skilled shinobi. Shinjiro was rather bored however with the means he used, a simple kunai toss. Practical, efficient, detached. The mark of an assassin, it was acceptable but quite dull. Still, there was something to be said about tools that didn’t needlessly expose themselves with flamboyant displays.
Shinjiro leapt down to the target, crouching and pulling the kunai free. A spray of blood surged forth and he deftly avoided it, there was no reason to sully his clothes with such filth. Spinning the kunai quickly he flicked the blood off the blade, inspecting the tip and noticing the point had chipped off. The weapon was damaged but still functional. Glancing back at the corpse he nodded in approval, “Well he’s definitely dead” he noted. Clean and precise, it was not bad at all. He hadn’t expected the swordsman to utilize projectiles much though it was certainly a simple and useful means for dispatching weak targets. “I think we’ll play a little game next” he considered, though something was bothering him that he wished to address. “But first, what did you mean by people that deserve to die? What makes anyone more deserving of life than another?” he wondered, he had heard many different takes on what value life had, his own thoughts were muddied on such things and filled with contradictions depending on his mood. What moral standards did ryu hold, despite pursuing the career of a paid killer?
Certainly, the being inside of Ryu, whose name escaped him for the moment, was well suited toward the head-hunters. It seemed always eager to kill with no moral restraints and it was suitable for disposing of bodies. Would Ryu continue to rely on the creature within to do his dirty work? Or did he have what it took to stand out on his own: warrior, assassin, tool. What was his true calling? He wondered. Moving swiftly and silently, Shinjiro shadowed them as they moved, close enough to overhear their conversation and making mental notes of the interactions. The part about Ryu’s mother interested him, he had forgotten that they had that in common. Though he found it disrespectful that he seemed to think all slaves came from the untouchable district, most here were not worthy of being slaves, they were far less. Slaves had purpose, value, his own household slaves were treated better and held in higher regard than most common citizens of water country.
The hooded shinobi watched curiously as Ryu picked his target, predictable but not a bad choice. Just another worthless drug addict, it was just a matter of time before he overdosed anyway, and it wasn’t like there was anyone out here that would care enough to get him help to turn his life around. In Shinji’s mind he was no different than one of Chisaki’s zombies, just that he hadn’t served any purpose until this point. Now his life would have a brief meaning, to be used as a training tool to hone a skilled shinobi. Shinjiro was rather bored however with the means he used, a simple kunai toss. Practical, efficient, detached. The mark of an assassin, it was acceptable but quite dull. Still, there was something to be said about tools that didn’t needlessly expose themselves with flamboyant displays.
Shinjiro leapt down to the target, crouching and pulling the kunai free. A spray of blood surged forth and he deftly avoided it, there was no reason to sully his clothes with such filth. Spinning the kunai quickly he flicked the blood off the blade, inspecting the tip and noticing the point had chipped off. The weapon was damaged but still functional. Glancing back at the corpse he nodded in approval, “Well he’s definitely dead” he noted. Clean and precise, it was not bad at all. He hadn’t expected the swordsman to utilize projectiles much though it was certainly a simple and useful means for dispatching weak targets. “I think we’ll play a little game next” he considered, though something was bothering him that he wished to address. “But first, what did you mean by people that deserve to die? What makes anyone more deserving of life than another?” he wondered, he had heard many different takes on what value life had, his own thoughts were muddied on such things and filled with contradictions depending on his mood. What moral standards did ryu hold, despite pursuing the career of a paid killer?
Karagata Shinjiro - Kiri Bannin; Jinchuuriki, Overseer of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist, Kintsugi
Haziwara Youji- Iwagakure Chunin
Takeda Ichiro - A-Rank Waterfall Country; Black Wake, Chishiki, Setsuzoku
Hyuuga Takeshi - Konoha Special Jounin; Anbu
Jouchaku Shigeko - Kiri Genin; HHD
The Chosen
Ryu watched as Shinjiro leapt down into the alley, and he would follow him down, though he simply walked down the side of the wall as Shinjiro removed the kunai and confirmed the kill. He wasn't entirely sure what the Jinchuuriki of Vorashu was doing, what kind of test this was; that kill took nothing from Ryu. It was no challenge, there was no sense of adversity or growth. Just... death. "Worst part of the job..." He shrugged and put his hands in his pocket, while Hisan emerged and addressed Shinjiro personally. "Psst. Hey, you have a good nose. That meat is still good, isn't it?" in response, Ryu practically yanked Hisan's distended head back towards his body. "I said no, Hisan! You gluttonous bastard, i'm sick of it!"
With a wicked chuckle the creature simply receded back within Ryu's body, and Ryu crossed his arms and rolled his eyes. "He's useful, but I'm so tired of seeing every living thing as food." The boy let out a sigh, and it was then that Shinjiro asked his question; people that deserve to die... "Merit. Achievements. Power. Skill. These are traits that make someone deserving of life. Shinobi risk their lives every day to ensure the growth of the village, they push their body past limit after limit to further serve the village's interests. That makes us deserving of life. But at the same time, being a waste of flesh like this sap doesn't make you deserving of death either. With the right tools, with the right assistance, and with a little bit of willpower, he could've turned his life around and made a difference. He could've been worth more to the village. It's just tragic that he didn't see his own potential... that his only contribution to our great nation was to die at my hands as a part of some sort of test."
Ryu let out a sigh as he idly kicked the corpse on the ground, his hand instinctively falling to his sword as he continued to mull over the question. "I'm not beyond killing for the sake of orders. I think that's obvious. You're my superior, and you told me to kill, so I killed. That's the easy part. I don't have to think about that, or search my own morality. That's not up to me, that's up to the superior giving the order. But if I had it my way, I'd prefer to fight and kill enemies that can stand against me. There's no honor in simple murder, there's nothing to be learned from tossing a kunai at a civilian who couldn't stop me from killing him if he tried." As he spoke, his hand tightened and loosened around his hilt, silently wondering what Shinjiro would make of his answer. Was he too soft? He didn't think so, as long as he was willing to follow orders and take whatever life he was ordered to take. But Shinji... he was one of the most elite shinobi in the village.
How hardened had his ascent made him?
With a wicked chuckle the creature simply receded back within Ryu's body, and Ryu crossed his arms and rolled his eyes. "He's useful, but I'm so tired of seeing every living thing as food." The boy let out a sigh, and it was then that Shinjiro asked his question; people that deserve to die... "Merit. Achievements. Power. Skill. These are traits that make someone deserving of life. Shinobi risk their lives every day to ensure the growth of the village, they push their body past limit after limit to further serve the village's interests. That makes us deserving of life. But at the same time, being a waste of flesh like this sap doesn't make you deserving of death either. With the right tools, with the right assistance, and with a little bit of willpower, he could've turned his life around and made a difference. He could've been worth more to the village. It's just tragic that he didn't see his own potential... that his only contribution to our great nation was to die at my hands as a part of some sort of test."
Ryu let out a sigh as he idly kicked the corpse on the ground, his hand instinctively falling to his sword as he continued to mull over the question. "I'm not beyond killing for the sake of orders. I think that's obvious. You're my superior, and you told me to kill, so I killed. That's the easy part. I don't have to think about that, or search my own morality. That's not up to me, that's up to the superior giving the order. But if I had it my way, I'd prefer to fight and kill enemies that can stand against me. There's no honor in simple murder, there's nothing to be learned from tossing a kunai at a civilian who couldn't stop me from killing him if he tried." As he spoke, his hand tightened and loosened around his hilt, silently wondering what Shinjiro would make of his answer. Was he too soft? He didn't think so, as long as he was willing to follow orders and take whatever life he was ordered to take. But Shinji... he was one of the most elite shinobi in the village.
How hardened had his ascent made him?
| Active Characters | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Village of Origin | Character Name & Link | Rank | Color |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Henrin Emi | Genin | [color=darkgoldenrod][b][/b][/color] |
| Konohagakure no Sato | Ibakuro Aiya | Chuunin | [color=#8CD600][/color] |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Kouseki Takuma | Genin | [color=#003893][b][/b][/color], [b][color=#AFBCDB][/color][/b] |
| Kirigakure no Sato | Kazuki Ryu | Chuunin | [color=#dc143c][/color], [b][color=#C71585][/color][/b] |
| Hiraku Kenji | [b][color=slategray][/color][/b] | ||
| Fukusha Jinsai | Jounin | [color=#BF0000][/color], [b][glow=orangered][color=#000000][/color][/glow][/b] | |
The Chosen
Shinjiro’s eyes narrowed at Ryu’s comment, he was intentionally reading into everything he could in an effort to understand the young man after all. It had been a while since he had been reminded that the life of a shinobi was in fact a job. Some people actually chose to become shinobi in pursuit of wealth and status so that they could one day retire rich. A job like any other that simply offered more glamorous rewards and a much deeper skillset. He held no disdain for those who served the village for such purposes, simply that it was not quite how he was raised. Shinjiro smirked however at Hisan’s comment, “Let the rats have this one, they need to eat too” he responded dryly. He had grown to respect animals, the simplicity of their chain of life. In many ways, they mirrored humans if one simply cut out many of the more complicated emotions and motivations. Survival of the fittest, the ever-connected cycle of life and death, building on the backs of those before them. But there too was cruelty and indulgences, the nature of all living things. There was no reason to life, no justice, no morality. There was simply existence, serving whatever purpose one saw fit. All equally blameless.
The young overseer of the seven swordsmen, Karagata assassin and Jinchurriki of Kirigakure, listened curiously to Ryu’s response. He didn’t demand that everyone saw life the same way he did, not as long as they were still of use and did their duty. But he did find interest in learning the philosophies of others, especially if they were someone he might serve alongside or induct into the seven. Nothing Ryu said offended him in any way, which was the quickest way to spur on his violent tendencies. Rather, the differences in their beliefs seemed rather subtle, nearly trivial really in the end result of their approaches. Shinjiro shrugged his shoulders, his demeanor was casual. He was not angry, nor filled with murderous intent, simply they were having a calm discussion. “I don’t believe anyone deserves to live or die. They are simply things that happen. Some have more potential than others, there is worth in their usefulness but the moment they are a target, or they stand in my way, their life no longer holds any value. In the end, every one of us is expendable, we will all be forgotten in time and nothing we do matters. I serve, I follow orders without question because that is what I have been trained to do. That is the purpose I have accepted: to allow myself to pretend my life has some meaning. So, enjoy whatever pleasures you can but do not trouble yourself with guilt or mourning; death is the peace we should all strive towards achieving.” He stated coldly, truly Shinjiro was a broken human. He had suffered greatly his entire life, broken countless times, confronted all his life with nothing but pain. Shown flickers of purity, warmth and kindness and learned to snuff that light out or seen it done for him. Vorashu had shown him the pleasures of animal simplicity and reinforced the cruelty of the world. The inevitability of suffering. And this was the conclusion he had ultimately come to.
The young overseer of the seven swordsmen, Karagata assassin and Jinchurriki of Kirigakure, listened curiously to Ryu’s response. He didn’t demand that everyone saw life the same way he did, not as long as they were still of use and did their duty. But he did find interest in learning the philosophies of others, especially if they were someone he might serve alongside or induct into the seven. Nothing Ryu said offended him in any way, which was the quickest way to spur on his violent tendencies. Rather, the differences in their beliefs seemed rather subtle, nearly trivial really in the end result of their approaches. Shinjiro shrugged his shoulders, his demeanor was casual. He was not angry, nor filled with murderous intent, simply they were having a calm discussion. “I don’t believe anyone deserves to live or die. They are simply things that happen. Some have more potential than others, there is worth in their usefulness but the moment they are a target, or they stand in my way, their life no longer holds any value. In the end, every one of us is expendable, we will all be forgotten in time and nothing we do matters. I serve, I follow orders without question because that is what I have been trained to do. That is the purpose I have accepted: to allow myself to pretend my life has some meaning. So, enjoy whatever pleasures you can but do not trouble yourself with guilt or mourning; death is the peace we should all strive towards achieving.” He stated coldly, truly Shinjiro was a broken human. He had suffered greatly his entire life, broken countless times, confronted all his life with nothing but pain. Shown flickers of purity, warmth and kindness and learned to snuff that light out or seen it done for him. Vorashu had shown him the pleasures of animal simplicity and reinforced the cruelty of the world. The inevitability of suffering. And this was the conclusion he had ultimately come to.
Karagata Shinjiro - Kiri Bannin; Jinchuuriki, Overseer of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist, Kintsugi
Haziwara Youji- Iwagakure Chunin
Takeda Ichiro - A-Rank Waterfall Country; Black Wake, Chishiki, Setsuzoku
Hyuuga Takeshi - Konoha Special Jounin; Anbu
Jouchaku Shigeko - Kiri Genin; HHD
The Chosen
Hisan merely grumbled as the brown haired Jinchuuriki made clear that he stood by Ryu's decision to let this body go to waste, at least by Hisan's standards. After the symbiote receded within the young chuunin, the conversation between Ryu and Shinjiro took a turn towards the philosophical. In some way, Ryu actually agreed with the shinobi but that line was drawn at a certain point. "You lost me after "Their life no longer holds value". I believe everything we do matters and none of us will truly be forgotten. This sack of sad flesh might be dead now, but if he has kids, in a way he's not really dead. His kids could go on to make more of themselves than he ever did. His kids might be the next generation of Kirigakure jounin. You and me, we may die but the glory we bring to Kirigakure is forever. And I for one am not ready for the peace of death, not until I've left a mark on this village that would make my father proud. I serve and follow orders without question, just as you do, but I don't pretend my life has meaning; it just does."
Who knew that one of the greatest shinobi Kirigakure had ever seen had such a bleak view on life and death, even his own? How could you achieve such a level of fame, and simplify your own life to such a depressing philosophy? Ryu crossed his arms and shook his head, an angry look on his face as he was actually upset with the man for being so... melancholy. "Anyways. The drunk is dead. What do you want to test me on next?" He made clear that he was a little impatient now, and would've liked to go and celebrate his promotion before the day turned to night.
Who knew that one of the greatest shinobi Kirigakure had ever seen had such a bleak view on life and death, even his own? How could you achieve such a level of fame, and simplify your own life to such a depressing philosophy? Ryu crossed his arms and shook his head, an angry look on his face as he was actually upset with the man for being so... melancholy. "Anyways. The drunk is dead. What do you want to test me on next?" He made clear that he was a little impatient now, and would've liked to go and celebrate his promotion before the day turned to night.
| Active Characters | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Village of Origin | Character Name & Link | Rank | Color |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Henrin Emi | Genin | [color=darkgoldenrod][b][/b][/color] |
| Konohagakure no Sato | Ibakuro Aiya | Chuunin | [color=#8CD600][/color] |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Kouseki Takuma | Genin | [color=#003893][b][/b][/color], [b][color=#AFBCDB][/color][/b] |
| Kirigakure no Sato | Kazuki Ryu | Chuunin | [color=#dc143c][/color], [b][color=#C71585][/color][/b] |
| Hiraku Kenji | [b][color=slategray][/color][/b] | ||
| Fukusha Jinsai | Jounin | [color=#BF0000][/color], [b][glow=orangered][color=#000000][/color][/glow][/b] | |
The Chosen
Shinjiro contemplated Ryu’s words, the boy was only a few years younger than him though of course their rank, skill and experience were leagues apart. Nonetheless, he valued the fresh Chunin’s insight. Over time Shinjiro had learned to be more accepting of those weaker than him. He saw potential in others and did believe an individual could make an impact, and certainly, in the short term, those sacrifices would be remembered though he doubted anyone knew or cared much what ancestors did more than two generations passed, a small stretch of time when one really thought about it. “Yes, glory to Kirigakure, pride of one’s family and father. Reputation, legacy. These reasons I understand quite well. You’re right, you owe the village your best, make your mark then. Earn your freedom of death, maybe I’ll even get to kill you myself one day. Or better yet you’ll surpass me” he considered whimsically. That would be a good death, replaced by a stronger overseer of the swordsman. Ryu would have to earn his way; perhaps keeping him out of the seven until he could truly challenge him would motivate him to reach his true potential. It was something he hadn’t considered until now, but he found himself liking the idea. It had been too long since he had a worthy rival.
Their philosophical debate concluded for the time being, Shinji could continue his tests. There was just one more thing he was curious to play around with. “Yes…let’s see” he considered, transforming his head into the likeness of an owl as he listened intently for potential candidates. Pivoting his head along the wide turning radius he bounced between different sounds. Dashing off in a blur of motion he seemed to disappear, darting between a few ally ways, stopping here and there and eventually finding a suitable set of stand ins. Within a few minutes he returned to wherever Ryu was, whether he had waited or attempted to follow him.
Dropped on the ground before him were two individuals, a mother and her son. The woman looked to be in her 40’s or maybe even 50’s, wavy dirty blonde hair down to her shoulders, a face done up with makeup. She wore a low-cut top and a short red skirt. For someone living in the slums she was fairly attractive or at least looked like she could have been when she was younger and before her body took the toll of drugs and alcohol that left her many marks, wrinkles some sunken features that even the excessive makeup couldn’t entirely hide. The boy on the other hand was skinny, dressed in dirty rags, dark brown hair and listless eyes he was likely somewhere in the range of 6-8 years old though it was likewise hard to say for certain given the conditions they lived in. The boy began crying and reaching for his mother and the woman began frantically pleading, “We haven’t done nothin' wrong, please let us go! We can work something out, I know people, I have friends; Money, drugs, women, whatever you need I can get ya some” she pleaded, clearly realizing the danger of shinobi. Shinji however ignored her and sensing the tension she quieted down, hushing the child and muttering for him to be quiet.
Shinjiro reached into a pouch for a coin, the woman’s eyes naturally followed it with a sense of relief. But it wasn’t for her, not really. Flipping it into the air he called it while it spun. “Heads you get the boy, tails the woman” he stated dully. The coin was caught and placed on his wrist, heads up. “Heads” he stated. The woman didn’t seem to fully understand the situation and to be fair Ryu likely didn’t either. “You still have to pay, more if you want to keep him” she negotiated. Money was something she understood, the boy wasn’t her first child by any means. Sometimes it was better to sell one’s kids off as slaves or simply find ways for them to be of value. Shinjiro continued to ignore the woman, these people were nothing but ants to him. “Your mission is to kill the boy, mine is to kill the woman. Consider us enemy shinobi, these prisoners are a neutral party with similar information that we both find valuable but don’t want the other to have” he explained, giving the rundown on this mock mission. How seriously would Ryu take this assignment? Was he prepared to follow through? Or would his morals get in the way of duty? These were the types of assignments he would be faced with, either as a hunter nin or as a member of the seven swordsmen. Whatever his father had taught him, there was no honor for one who walked the path of the shinobi. But there was duty. The young Bannin was ready to act the second Ryu did, but he would give him the advantage of making the first move.
Their philosophical debate concluded for the time being, Shinji could continue his tests. There was just one more thing he was curious to play around with. “Yes…let’s see” he considered, transforming his head into the likeness of an owl as he listened intently for potential candidates. Pivoting his head along the wide turning radius he bounced between different sounds. Dashing off in a blur of motion he seemed to disappear, darting between a few ally ways, stopping here and there and eventually finding a suitable set of stand ins. Within a few minutes he returned to wherever Ryu was, whether he had waited or attempted to follow him.
Dropped on the ground before him were two individuals, a mother and her son. The woman looked to be in her 40’s or maybe even 50’s, wavy dirty blonde hair down to her shoulders, a face done up with makeup. She wore a low-cut top and a short red skirt. For someone living in the slums she was fairly attractive or at least looked like she could have been when she was younger and before her body took the toll of drugs and alcohol that left her many marks, wrinkles some sunken features that even the excessive makeup couldn’t entirely hide. The boy on the other hand was skinny, dressed in dirty rags, dark brown hair and listless eyes he was likely somewhere in the range of 6-8 years old though it was likewise hard to say for certain given the conditions they lived in. The boy began crying and reaching for his mother and the woman began frantically pleading, “We haven’t done nothin' wrong, please let us go! We can work something out, I know people, I have friends; Money, drugs, women, whatever you need I can get ya some” she pleaded, clearly realizing the danger of shinobi. Shinji however ignored her and sensing the tension she quieted down, hushing the child and muttering for him to be quiet.
Shinjiro reached into a pouch for a coin, the woman’s eyes naturally followed it with a sense of relief. But it wasn’t for her, not really. Flipping it into the air he called it while it spun. “Heads you get the boy, tails the woman” he stated dully. The coin was caught and placed on his wrist, heads up. “Heads” he stated. The woman didn’t seem to fully understand the situation and to be fair Ryu likely didn’t either. “You still have to pay, more if you want to keep him” she negotiated. Money was something she understood, the boy wasn’t her first child by any means. Sometimes it was better to sell one’s kids off as slaves or simply find ways for them to be of value. Shinjiro continued to ignore the woman, these people were nothing but ants to him. “Your mission is to kill the boy, mine is to kill the woman. Consider us enemy shinobi, these prisoners are a neutral party with similar information that we both find valuable but don’t want the other to have” he explained, giving the rundown on this mock mission. How seriously would Ryu take this assignment? Was he prepared to follow through? Or would his morals get in the way of duty? These were the types of assignments he would be faced with, either as a hunter nin or as a member of the seven swordsmen. Whatever his father had taught him, there was no honor for one who walked the path of the shinobi. But there was duty. The young Bannin was ready to act the second Ryu did, but he would give him the advantage of making the first move.
Jutsu UsedShow
Awareness of the Owl
B-Ranked Partial Kaerujutsu
Flowing chakra towards his head Shinjiro can take on the appearance of a great horned owl. Only from the neck up is he transformed, allowing him to turn his head 270 degrees, see clearly in the dark up to 250 meters away and hear the heartbeats of even creatures as small as a mouse from a range up to 100 meters.
B-Ranked Partial Kaerujutsu
Flowing chakra towards his head Shinjiro can take on the appearance of a great horned owl. Only from the neck up is he transformed, allowing him to turn his head 270 degrees, see clearly in the dark up to 250 meters away and hear the heartbeats of even creatures as small as a mouse from a range up to 100 meters.
Karagata Shinjiro - Kiri Bannin; Jinchuuriki, Overseer of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist, Kintsugi
Haziwara Youji- Iwagakure Chunin
Takeda Ichiro - A-Rank Waterfall Country; Black Wake, Chishiki, Setsuzoku
Hyuuga Takeshi - Konoha Special Jounin; Anbu
Jouchaku Shigeko - Kiri Genin; HHD
The Chosen
Ryu raised an eyebrow at the strange amount of respect Shinjiro gave to death, both giving and receiving it. It was odd to him; did the man want to die or something? He didn't consider the jinchuuriki suicidal, but the way he spoke about being bested by Ryu one day like it was a good thing just... left Ryu feeling weird. Either way, the philosophy was done with, and they actually saw eye to eye on more than he thought they would. A good thing, he surmised. But the tone of their tests took another strange shift as the boy's head turned into an owl, and a moment later he disappeared in a flash. "...Wait. What?" The transformation stuff, that was normal to Ryu by now. Shinji was a jinchuuriki, he did weird things that no one else could do because of the spirit within him, Vorashu.
But as the boy returned with a mother and child in tow, Ryu's gaze became more questionable than ever. "What the hell, why do you keep plucking random people off the street!?" He was angry, obviously; it was clear that he didn't like killing people who couldn't defend themselves, even if the cold bitch was willing to sell her own son off as a slave. But the conversation made clear what Shinjiro expected of him, and Ryu just shook his head. "You want me to... kill the child?" The kid looked to the two shinobi, clearly fearful, tears still clearly marred his dirty face. This was a predicament to be certain... He said he'd follow orders, but to kill a child? It left him feeling sick.
I'll bet he's tender, Ryu. So young, he still has some baby fat on him. I'm drooling just thinking about it, heheheh...
For a moment, Ryu's eyes flashed, a look of sadistic animosity clear as he stared at the boy, his mouth watering as Hisan's influence drove him to curiosity of what that young meat would taste like? And for a brief moment, he considered it... But in the next, as Hisan manifested around Ryu, he charged not the child... But Shinjiro himself. "If I kill you, both objectives are completed!" Ryu's voice overlapped with Hisan, showing that he had managed to rein the beast in and direct that primal hunger towards a more deserving target. The boy couldn't defend himself, but Shinjiro absolutely could... And to make matters better, those cuts of muscle were sure to feel good sliding down Hisan's gullet.
He'd lunge at the brown haired overseer, four tendrils emerging from his back and darting through the air towards Shinjiro as Ryu himself charged, claws bared and ready to rend meat from bone. His tendrils would flatten and harden themselves into blades of their own, ready to slash and rip into Shinjiro with deadly efficiency.
But as the boy returned with a mother and child in tow, Ryu's gaze became more questionable than ever. "What the hell, why do you keep plucking random people off the street!?" He was angry, obviously; it was clear that he didn't like killing people who couldn't defend themselves, even if the cold bitch was willing to sell her own son off as a slave. But the conversation made clear what Shinjiro expected of him, and Ryu just shook his head. "You want me to... kill the child?" The kid looked to the two shinobi, clearly fearful, tears still clearly marred his dirty face. This was a predicament to be certain... He said he'd follow orders, but to kill a child? It left him feeling sick.
I'll bet he's tender, Ryu. So young, he still has some baby fat on him. I'm drooling just thinking about it, heheheh...
For a moment, Ryu's eyes flashed, a look of sadistic animosity clear as he stared at the boy, his mouth watering as Hisan's influence drove him to curiosity of what that young meat would taste like? And for a brief moment, he considered it... But in the next, as Hisan manifested around Ryu, he charged not the child... But Shinjiro himself. "If I kill you, both objectives are completed!" Ryu's voice overlapped with Hisan, showing that he had managed to rein the beast in and direct that primal hunger towards a more deserving target. The boy couldn't defend himself, but Shinjiro absolutely could... And to make matters better, those cuts of muscle were sure to feel good sliding down Hisan's gullet.
He'd lunge at the brown haired overseer, four tendrils emerging from his back and darting through the air towards Shinjiro as Ryu himself charged, claws bared and ready to rend meat from bone. His tendrils would flatten and harden themselves into blades of their own, ready to slash and rip into Shinjiro with deadly efficiency.
JutsuShow
[Miserable Synch]
D-Ranked Taijutsu Discipline
Hisan and Ryu share the same body and the same senses, and as a means of survival the two have learned to synchronize their thoughts and actions. This training is reflective of that, enabling Ryu to fight with and around Hisan's actions and vice versa, ensuring that the two do not trip each other up on accident.
[Miserable Whip]
C-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Hisan will manifest up to four tendrils from Ryu's body, using them against targets for various purposes such as grappling, piercing and lashing. They can also be used to pull Ryu in a direction, but this movement cannot exceed her speed.
[Miserable Blades]
C-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Hisan will focus on any currently spawned appendages, flattening and sharpening their edges to form jagged blades out of their tips. These blades measure 1 foot from top to bottom and enable the limbs in questions to slash and cut with ease.[/spoiler[
D-Ranked Taijutsu Discipline
Hisan and Ryu share the same body and the same senses, and as a means of survival the two have learned to synchronize their thoughts and actions. This training is reflective of that, enabling Ryu to fight with and around Hisan's actions and vice versa, ensuring that the two do not trip each other up on accident.
[Miserable Whip]
C-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Hisan will manifest up to four tendrils from Ryu's body, using them against targets for various purposes such as grappling, piercing and lashing. They can also be used to pull Ryu in a direction, but this movement cannot exceed her speed.
[Miserable Blades]
C-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Hisan will focus on any currently spawned appendages, flattening and sharpening their edges to form jagged blades out of their tips. These blades measure 1 foot from top to bottom and enable the limbs in questions to slash and cut with ease.[/spoiler[
| Active Characters | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Village of Origin | Character Name & Link | Rank | Color |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Henrin Emi | Genin | [color=darkgoldenrod][b][/b][/color] |
| Konohagakure no Sato | Ibakuro Aiya | Chuunin | [color=#8CD600][/color] |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Kouseki Takuma | Genin | [color=#003893][b][/b][/color], [b][color=#AFBCDB][/color][/b] |
| Kirigakure no Sato | Kazuki Ryu | Chuunin | [color=#dc143c][/color], [b][color=#C71585][/color][/b] |
| Hiraku Kenji | [b][color=slategray][/color][/b] | ||
| Fukusha Jinsai | Jounin | [color=#BF0000][/color], [b][glow=orangered][color=#000000][/color][/glow][/b] | |
The Chosen
Shinjiro huffed lightly in amusement at the comment of plucking people off the street. He was simply utilizing what was available. Like cockroaches or rats, there would always be more of them available to use as training tools. Of course, they weren’t all equally expendable, some could be of use in other ways. The point however was to push Ryu, to expose the weaknesses that his sense of morality and honor shackled to him. Or, if Shinjiro was wrong and he could fulfill his orders without compromising himself then that was equally acceptable. But be it a member of the seven swordsmen or the headhunters, if Ryu were to be an elite shinobi of Kirigakure, to truly reach his potential, he would need to learn to sacrifice. Shinjiro stared at Ryu blankly as he confirmed the mission parameters, “Those are your orders, yes.” He confirmed. However, if Ryu could uphold the integrity of the mission, see a bigger picture and end with favorable results that too was acceptable. In the life of a shinobi following orders was important but to be truly elite one needed to be able to adapt and read between the lines in order to achieve the best possible outcome for Kirigakure.
Choosing not to attempt to kill the boy might have been a mark against being a good headhunter, but immediately attacking Shinji instead was a redeeming choice. Eliminating a threat was always a better choice than taking a risk by overexposing oneself and going after the weak target first. However, a bold, direct attack was not without its faults. “So brave” he mocked in a low, bored tone. The man twisted his body, leaning back and deftly avoiding the first set of bladed tendrils as his own left arm turned into a snake and went rocketing toward the boy at 30 speed, wrapping around him and yanking him toward him and into the path of the bladed tendrils as they maneuvered for a follow-up attack. Simultaneously his right hand dipped into his pouch, hurtling a pair of shuriken in one swift motion aimed center mass at 15 speed and strength at the woman.
As Ryu closed in, he would continue to utilize the hostage of the boy as a deterrent, maneuvering his snake-like appendage and the entangled boy around to intercept while he continued to make subtle movements himself. Anticipating attacks and learning their patterns while shifting out of their path and dipping away from follow-ups. Of course, he would only make it seem like the boy was in life-threatening danger to prevent wide, haphazard swings and overly aggressive tactics. Should attacks connect they would mostly strike the hardened scales of the snake appendage or make a few minor lacerations against the child, enough to worry Ryu at least. If Ryu wanted to make the challenge harder on himself by trying to keep both targets alive Shinjiro would happily adapt to take advantage of that weakness. After throwing the pair of shuriken Shinji’s stance would shift, keeping loose and relaxed to keep narrowly avoiding strikes while still keeping in close range, utilizing Ryu’s advance against him and intercepting to turn the advantage in his favor on all fronts. His right hand would lash out like a cobra with 20 Speed and Strength, aiming to strike and intercept attacks that made it through his hostage and even lash out to strike Ryu’s collarbone with shattering power should he not immediately retreat.
Choosing not to attempt to kill the boy might have been a mark against being a good headhunter, but immediately attacking Shinji instead was a redeeming choice. Eliminating a threat was always a better choice than taking a risk by overexposing oneself and going after the weak target first. However, a bold, direct attack was not without its faults. “So brave” he mocked in a low, bored tone. The man twisted his body, leaning back and deftly avoiding the first set of bladed tendrils as his own left arm turned into a snake and went rocketing toward the boy at 30 speed, wrapping around him and yanking him toward him and into the path of the bladed tendrils as they maneuvered for a follow-up attack. Simultaneously his right hand dipped into his pouch, hurtling a pair of shuriken in one swift motion aimed center mass at 15 speed and strength at the woman.
As Ryu closed in, he would continue to utilize the hostage of the boy as a deterrent, maneuvering his snake-like appendage and the entangled boy around to intercept while he continued to make subtle movements himself. Anticipating attacks and learning their patterns while shifting out of their path and dipping away from follow-ups. Of course, he would only make it seem like the boy was in life-threatening danger to prevent wide, haphazard swings and overly aggressive tactics. Should attacks connect they would mostly strike the hardened scales of the snake appendage or make a few minor lacerations against the child, enough to worry Ryu at least. If Ryu wanted to make the challenge harder on himself by trying to keep both targets alive Shinjiro would happily adapt to take advantage of that weakness. After throwing the pair of shuriken Shinji’s stance would shift, keeping loose and relaxed to keep narrowly avoiding strikes while still keeping in close range, utilizing Ryu’s advance against him and intercepting to turn the advantage in his favor on all fronts. His right hand would lash out like a cobra with 20 Speed and Strength, aiming to strike and intercept attacks that made it through his hostage and even lash out to strike Ryu’s collarbone with shattering power should he not immediately retreat.
Jutsu UsedShow
Serpent strike
C-Ranked Partial Kaerujutsu
Focusing chakra into a limb/appendage of choice the area will glow green before transforming into either a green or black venomous snake which can then extend up to 25 meters to bite or constrict around an opponent. If bitten the target will experience nausea, blurred vision, elevated heart rate and sweating for 3 posts as the venom flows through their system. Shinji can maintain his limb in this form for as long as he wishes and revert it at a whim, able to attack with strength and speed equal to his own.
Combat Intuition
A-Rank Taijutsu Discipline
Prerequisite: 25 Speed, [Perception], [Close Quarters Combat]
A skill to maximize efficiency of movement, Shinji has learned to utilize his head and body movements to avoid incoming attacks without sacrificing maneuverability or speed. So long as he is able to anticipate an opponents attacks he can make minor ducks, shifts and weaves out of the path of most incoming strikes and projectiles, often allowing him to capitalize on counters based on the openings that a miss provides. Though typically Shinji must be able to perceive an incoming attack, after he has evaded a maneuver once he is far more likely to be able to anticipate and predict an opponent’s attack pattern, often beginning his evasion or block the instant an opponent begins their attack.
Lethal Precision
A-rank Taijutsu Discipline
Prerequisite: [Deft Hands], [Close Quarters Combat] [Sword Weapons]
Shinjiro has fine tuned his accuracy with his strikes to the point where he can consistently target even a moving target within 1mm of precision as well as being able to find openings in his opponents guard and capitalize on those openings so long as his Speed is greater than or equal to that of his opponent unless they have an adequate defensive technique. This includes his use of bladed weapons and his own limbs.
*[Totem Style • Cobra's Strikes]
D-Ranked Taijutsu Stance
Prerequisite: [Deft Hands]
The user folds their hands over where the thumb and fingers make a cone-like point. Their defenses consist of dips and sways to dodge attacks. Their offenses are focused on pin point application of pressure using these points and lightning quick strikes.
*[Totem Style • Cobra's Bite]
C-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Prerequisite: [Deft Hands], *[Totem Style • Cobra's Strikes]
The user makes a string of rapid attacks aimed at the collarbone, throat, and shoulder. They focus more on speed than power, causing each attack to be slightly weak but still damaging and very draining. If the user has more 5 or more Strength than their opponent's Endurance their collarbone will be broken, the shoulder severely bruised and difficult to move, and they will have trouble breathing.
C-Ranked Partial Kaerujutsu
Focusing chakra into a limb/appendage of choice the area will glow green before transforming into either a green or black venomous snake which can then extend up to 25 meters to bite or constrict around an opponent. If bitten the target will experience nausea, blurred vision, elevated heart rate and sweating for 3 posts as the venom flows through their system. Shinji can maintain his limb in this form for as long as he wishes and revert it at a whim, able to attack with strength and speed equal to his own.
Combat Intuition
A-Rank Taijutsu Discipline
Prerequisite: 25 Speed, [Perception], [Close Quarters Combat]
A skill to maximize efficiency of movement, Shinji has learned to utilize his head and body movements to avoid incoming attacks without sacrificing maneuverability or speed. So long as he is able to anticipate an opponents attacks he can make minor ducks, shifts and weaves out of the path of most incoming strikes and projectiles, often allowing him to capitalize on counters based on the openings that a miss provides. Though typically Shinji must be able to perceive an incoming attack, after he has evaded a maneuver once he is far more likely to be able to anticipate and predict an opponent’s attack pattern, often beginning his evasion or block the instant an opponent begins their attack.
Lethal Precision
A-rank Taijutsu Discipline
Prerequisite: [Deft Hands], [Close Quarters Combat] [Sword Weapons]
Shinjiro has fine tuned his accuracy with his strikes to the point where he can consistently target even a moving target within 1mm of precision as well as being able to find openings in his opponents guard and capitalize on those openings so long as his Speed is greater than or equal to that of his opponent unless they have an adequate defensive technique. This includes his use of bladed weapons and his own limbs.
*[Totem Style • Cobra's Strikes]
D-Ranked Taijutsu Stance
Prerequisite: [Deft Hands]
The user folds their hands over where the thumb and fingers make a cone-like point. Their defenses consist of dips and sways to dodge attacks. Their offenses are focused on pin point application of pressure using these points and lightning quick strikes.
*[Totem Style • Cobra's Bite]
C-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Prerequisite: [Deft Hands], *[Totem Style • Cobra's Strikes]
The user makes a string of rapid attacks aimed at the collarbone, throat, and shoulder. They focus more on speed than power, causing each attack to be slightly weak but still damaging and very draining. If the user has more 5 or more Strength than their opponent's Endurance their collarbone will be broken, the shoulder severely bruised and difficult to move, and they will have trouble breathing.
Karagata Shinjiro - Kiri Bannin; Jinchuuriki, Overseer of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist, Kintsugi
Haziwara Youji- Iwagakure Chunin
Takeda Ichiro - A-Rank Waterfall Country; Black Wake, Chishiki, Setsuzoku
Hyuuga Takeshi - Konoha Special Jounin; Anbu
Jouchaku Shigeko - Kiri Genin; HHD
The Chosen
There wasn't a lot of room to maneuver around in this alley, but that sure didn't stop Shinjiro from making the most of it. And to use the boy as a shield... "Tch, what cowardice." The voices overlapped again, taunting the man for using such a low tactic... even if it was effective. The shuriken thrown towards the woman were quick, and with such little room there wasn't much he could do except intercept them with projectiles of his own. As his tendrils continued to rush the boy, Ryu extended both palms out towards the Shuriken, and in a burst of mass, two small spikes made of Hisan's fleshy power shot out from his palms at a full 20 strength and speed, pinning the two Shuriken to the wall inches from the woman's body.
He couldn't afford to get in too close now, and he couldn't afford to leave the woman defenseless. The alley was a dead end, so there was nowhere for her to run and nothing to really hide behind, except a trashcan or two. So one of his tendrils would hang back around her, flattening itself out into the form of a circular protrusion, awaiting any other projectiles that might come her way. Meanwhile, two of his other tendrils would keep up the offense against Shinjiro, doing his best to avoid the boy and try to break Shinji's hold on him. Those scales were tough though... his bladed appendages couldn't get through. But an idea came, and with a wicked grin, Ryu allowed his fourth tendril to slowly turn invisible. Then, while the other two kept Shinji busy, he'd try to snake that invisible tendril slowly towards him, aiming for the ankles. If he could, he'd take the bastard's ankles out from under him with a swift, bladed swipe of that invisible tendril, aiming to paralyze him and thus allow him to save the boy.
He couldn't afford to get in too close now, and he couldn't afford to leave the woman defenseless. The alley was a dead end, so there was nowhere for her to run and nothing to really hide behind, except a trashcan or two. So one of his tendrils would hang back around her, flattening itself out into the form of a circular protrusion, awaiting any other projectiles that might come her way. Meanwhile, two of his other tendrils would keep up the offense against Shinjiro, doing his best to avoid the boy and try to break Shinji's hold on him. Those scales were tough though... his bladed appendages couldn't get through. But an idea came, and with a wicked grin, Ryu allowed his fourth tendril to slowly turn invisible. Then, while the other two kept Shinji busy, he'd try to snake that invisible tendril slowly towards him, aiming for the ankles. If he could, he'd take the bastard's ankles out from under him with a swift, bladed swipe of that invisible tendril, aiming to paralyze him and thus allow him to save the boy.
jutsuShow
[Miserable Projectile]
D-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Hisan will sprout two 6 inch long jagged spikes from each of Ryu's palms, one from each palm. These spikes can then be fired off from his palms using Ryu's strength, or used to puncture targets in close range like melee weapons
[Miserable Protection]
D-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Hisan will manifest a single appendage from Ryu's body, forming it into a small circular shield meant for absorbing the impact of an attack. Once the blow is absorbed, Hisan's appendage can then grip or engulf the target, absorbing it within the appendage. Hisan can then whip the target around, holding it with Ryu's strength as it does so. This can be used to whip around a projectile and turn it on it's ally, or to throw an enemy around.
[Miserable Cloak]
B-Ranked Taijutsu Stance
Hisan will alter the color of it's pigmentation to match that of it's surroundings to the extent that, as long as Ryu moves slowly, he cannot be seen by a normal sense of sight. If at any point his speed exceeds his maximum speed -10, he becomes visible until he slows down.
D-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Hisan will sprout two 6 inch long jagged spikes from each of Ryu's palms, one from each palm. These spikes can then be fired off from his palms using Ryu's strength, or used to puncture targets in close range like melee weapons
[Miserable Protection]
D-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Hisan will manifest a single appendage from Ryu's body, forming it into a small circular shield meant for absorbing the impact of an attack. Once the blow is absorbed, Hisan's appendage can then grip or engulf the target, absorbing it within the appendage. Hisan can then whip the target around, holding it with Ryu's strength as it does so. This can be used to whip around a projectile and turn it on it's ally, or to throw an enemy around.
[Miserable Cloak]
B-Ranked Taijutsu Stance
Hisan will alter the color of it's pigmentation to match that of it's surroundings to the extent that, as long as Ryu moves slowly, he cannot be seen by a normal sense of sight. If at any point his speed exceeds his maximum speed -10, he becomes visible until he slows down.
| Active Characters | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Village of Origin | Character Name & Link | Rank | Color |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Henrin Emi | Genin | [color=darkgoldenrod][b][/b][/color] |
| Konohagakure no Sato | Ibakuro Aiya | Chuunin | [color=#8CD600][/color] |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Kouseki Takuma | Genin | [color=#003893][b][/b][/color], [b][color=#AFBCDB][/color][/b] |
| Kirigakure no Sato | Kazuki Ryu | Chuunin | [color=#dc143c][/color], [b][color=#C71585][/color][/b] |
| Hiraku Kenji | [b][color=slategray][/color][/b] | ||
| Fukusha Jinsai | Jounin | [color=#BF0000][/color], [b][glow=orangered][color=#000000][/color][/glow][/b] | |
The Chosen
Shinjiro chuckled as he was called a coward, “I’m just trying to help you” he insisted coyly, darting in to strike Ryu's collarbone as he fired off his shots to block the shuriken. The Chunin was stronger than he expected in this form and his 20 Strength strike didn’t actually shatter his collarbone like he expected, “Impressive” he uttered, also noting the invisible tendril that slashed at his ankle only a moment after his own attack. Keeping track of the four tendrils, especially at their comparatively slow speed was rather easy for him, but he wasn’t exactly putting much effort in thus far. He could have easily evaded the attack, but once again the man decided to display his ability to utilize everything around him to his advantage, even an enemy’s strike could ultimately seal their fate. The blade bit into his muscular ankle, only an inch at most, the strength of his body greatly surpassed the strike after all. But what was more impressive was his ability to clinch the injured muscle shut, clamping it around the weapon and preventing it from being pulled out; a little trick he had picked up when he had fought Katsu.
All the while the boy whimpered numbly, too petrified to speak or do much of anything as he was tossed around like a ragdoll, his neck was secured enough to prevent snapping but certainly it wasn’t doing him any favors to be jostled around in such a way. The mother on the other hand scrambled backward, looking for an escape to find none, in her frantic search for salvation she noticed the Karagata sigil on Shinjiro’s shoulder. “I’m sworn to the Karagata family too, don’t hurt us! I know powerful people…Izune-sama” she insisted, grasping at whatever she could to stay alive.
It was when she mentioned the Karagata name that Shinjiro kicked his leg back, yanking the tendril down hard and stepping on it, presumably displacing Ryu’s balance at least to some extent. Claws sprouted from his fingertips as his hand lashed forward with staggering speed and strength, so much so that to Ryu it would appear that he hadn’t even moved his hand, still holding it in the cobra stance style but now with claws. However, his hand would actually intend to pierce into the Chunin’s abdomen, grabbing hold of his lower left rib and ripping it clean out of him with a sickly snap. Due to the speed and expert precision, the wound would be surprisingly small and the break clean, Shinjiro holding about a 5-inch-long piece of rib and using it to stab into Ryu’s left thigh, avoiding any large veins or the bone and instead striking deep into the muscle. The snake arm retracted pulling the boy with it before turning back into his hand that now held the child by the throat, similarly his left hand grew claws which he held at the child’s throat. Shinjiro’s attention seemed however to shift to the woman now, her words evoking his ire. “We have no need of trash like you sworn to our family” he growled. She clearly had to be lying, there was no way someone living out here would have any ties to the main family at all, though even if it was only a lesser branch that she was sworn to it mattered not to him. She had taken it one step further in her audacity and even mentioned a certain prominent member of the family by name. Connecting someone such as Izune to her was not the type of claim he would allow to go unpunished. If it wasn’t already obvious to Ryu, the intensity of Shinjiro’s intent to kill had increased tenfold and it would be extremely dangerous for anyone to press their luck continuing to fight him now.
All the while the boy whimpered numbly, too petrified to speak or do much of anything as he was tossed around like a ragdoll, his neck was secured enough to prevent snapping but certainly it wasn’t doing him any favors to be jostled around in such a way. The mother on the other hand scrambled backward, looking for an escape to find none, in her frantic search for salvation she noticed the Karagata sigil on Shinjiro’s shoulder. “I’m sworn to the Karagata family too, don’t hurt us! I know powerful people…Izune-sama” she insisted, grasping at whatever she could to stay alive.
It was when she mentioned the Karagata name that Shinjiro kicked his leg back, yanking the tendril down hard and stepping on it, presumably displacing Ryu’s balance at least to some extent. Claws sprouted from his fingertips as his hand lashed forward with staggering speed and strength, so much so that to Ryu it would appear that he hadn’t even moved his hand, still holding it in the cobra stance style but now with claws. However, his hand would actually intend to pierce into the Chunin’s abdomen, grabbing hold of his lower left rib and ripping it clean out of him with a sickly snap. Due to the speed and expert precision, the wound would be surprisingly small and the break clean, Shinjiro holding about a 5-inch-long piece of rib and using it to stab into Ryu’s left thigh, avoiding any large veins or the bone and instead striking deep into the muscle. The snake arm retracted pulling the boy with it before turning back into his hand that now held the child by the throat, similarly his left hand grew claws which he held at the child’s throat. Shinjiro’s attention seemed however to shift to the woman now, her words evoking his ire. “We have no need of trash like you sworn to our family” he growled. She clearly had to be lying, there was no way someone living out here would have any ties to the main family at all, though even if it was only a lesser branch that she was sworn to it mattered not to him. She had taken it one step further in her audacity and even mentioned a certain prominent member of the family by name. Connecting someone such as Izune to her was not the type of claim he would allow to go unpunished. If it wasn’t already obvious to Ryu, the intensity of Shinjiro’s intent to kill had increased tenfold and it would be extremely dangerous for anyone to press their luck continuing to fight him now.
Jutsu UsedShow
Situational Awareness
B-rank Taijutsu Discipline
Prerequisite: [Perception]
Shinji has developed a keen sense of awareness of his environment. His innate attention to detail allows him to memorize the layout of an area or building as well as having a knack for identifying the entrances and exits as well as the positions of any other people in the area and even important details about that person, allowing him to see through disguises or transformations unless the opponent has a technique to mask their appearance of equal or greater rank. This grants him an almost a sixth sense in combat situations and his constant readiness allows him to more easily detect hostile intent and escape from ambushes.
Nemean Lion’s Hide
S-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Prerequisite: 40 Strength, [Rigid Structure]
Shinji’s body conditioning had developed to the point where so long as he can perceive an attack incoming, he is able to tense his body, either fully or in a specific location in order to greatly increase the durability of every part of his body, even in his various transformed states. While flexing in such a way only strikes made with higher strength than Shinji’s will damage him. Additionally, should he flex his body after being cut or stabbed he can trap the offending weapon within his flesh unless the opponent is stronger than him. With an additional flex the portion of the weapon embedded in him can be snapped off so long as Shinji’s strength is high enough to break it.
Organ Harvester
A-Rank Maneuver
Prerequisite: [Deft Hands] [Medicine]
Utilizing immense speed, strength and precision the user is capable of thrusting one’s hand through another’s body so long as the user’s Strength is at least 10 higher than the opponents. This can be done to rip out an entire organ while keeping it intact, shatter an opponent’s rib-cage, sever a spine or simply run their hand entirely through the body of another causing catastrophic damage.
Anatomy
A-Rank Taijutsu Discipline
Prerequisite: [Medicine] [Deft Hands]
Having acquired a vast knowledge of the human Anatomy and its weak points Shinjiro can strike in such a way as to cause organ failure from direct stabbing attacks, either with his appendages or a weapon so long as his Strength is at least 5 higher than his opponent, affecting the target accordingly typically though not limited to including symptoms of extreme pain and nausea, potentially leading to fatal consequences. Similarly, connecting muscle groups can easily be severed via bladed strikes rendering entire limbs unusable unless adequate medical treatment is applied.
B-rank Taijutsu Discipline
Prerequisite: [Perception]
Shinji has developed a keen sense of awareness of his environment. His innate attention to detail allows him to memorize the layout of an area or building as well as having a knack for identifying the entrances and exits as well as the positions of any other people in the area and even important details about that person, allowing him to see through disguises or transformations unless the opponent has a technique to mask their appearance of equal or greater rank. This grants him an almost a sixth sense in combat situations and his constant readiness allows him to more easily detect hostile intent and escape from ambushes.
Nemean Lion’s Hide
S-Ranked Taijutsu Maneuver
Prerequisite: 40 Strength, [Rigid Structure]
Shinji’s body conditioning had developed to the point where so long as he can perceive an attack incoming, he is able to tense his body, either fully or in a specific location in order to greatly increase the durability of every part of his body, even in his various transformed states. While flexing in such a way only strikes made with higher strength than Shinji’s will damage him. Additionally, should he flex his body after being cut or stabbed he can trap the offending weapon within his flesh unless the opponent is stronger than him. With an additional flex the portion of the weapon embedded in him can be snapped off so long as Shinji’s strength is high enough to break it.
Organ Harvester
A-Rank Maneuver
Prerequisite: [Deft Hands] [Medicine]
Utilizing immense speed, strength and precision the user is capable of thrusting one’s hand through another’s body so long as the user’s Strength is at least 10 higher than the opponents. This can be done to rip out an entire organ while keeping it intact, shatter an opponent’s rib-cage, sever a spine or simply run their hand entirely through the body of another causing catastrophic damage.
Anatomy
A-Rank Taijutsu Discipline
Prerequisite: [Medicine] [Deft Hands]
Having acquired a vast knowledge of the human Anatomy and its weak points Shinjiro can strike in such a way as to cause organ failure from direct stabbing attacks, either with his appendages or a weapon so long as his Strength is at least 5 higher than his opponent, affecting the target accordingly typically though not limited to including symptoms of extreme pain and nausea, potentially leading to fatal consequences. Similarly, connecting muscle groups can easily be severed via bladed strikes rendering entire limbs unusable unless adequate medical treatment is applied.
Karagata Shinjiro - Kiri Bannin; Jinchuuriki, Overseer of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist, Kintsugi
Haziwara Youji- Iwagakure Chunin
Takeda Ichiro - A-Rank Waterfall Country; Black Wake, Chishiki, Setsuzoku
Hyuuga Takeshi - Konoha Special Jounin; Anbu
Jouchaku Shigeko - Kiri Genin; HHD
The Chosen
Ryu was happy that he at least managed to get some kind of damage on the smug Jinchuuriki, but he had taken a good lick to do so; that blow to the collarbone hurt like hell, but at most it caused a hairline fracture. Nothing Hisan couldn't fix. But as the conversation between the woman and Shinjiro played out, Ryu turned to look at her... How could she be so stupid as to call attention to their family like that? She thought that would save her? Dumbass. Turned out though, the dumbass was him, as Shinji stepped on Ryu's own tendril and sent him stumbling forward into Shinji's hand, which pierced through his chest expertly, sending excruciating pain through the young warrior's body. He couldn't help but cry out in pain as blood oozed from the wound, and a moment later his own rib was jammed into his leg. He fell to the ground, severe pain rushing through his body, but Hisan was quick to pipe up in his mind. Holy shit, that looks like it hurts. Don't worry though, nothing major damaged... minus the rib that is. It can be fixed.
Ryu wanted to spit on the stupid parasite for calling a removed rib 'nothing major', but the sudden shift in Shinjiro's aura left Ryu searching for the man as he approached the mother. "Damn it, dumb bitch..." He cursed under his breath, still under Hisan's manifestation, as he knew there was only one way to maybe save her. Three of Ryu's tendrils would whip around to reach for Shinjiro's legs and right arm, just wanting to hold the man back for a moment, while his fourth tendril would wrap around the woman's hip, lift her up about five meters into the air, and attempt to place her down on the other side of the alley. "Go!" He choked out, barely managing to stand back up and put himself between the exit to the alley and Shinjiro. The woman would try to run, but Ryu already knew it wasn't going to help... the man before him could track her down easily if he wanted to. As he stood, Hisan's visage retracted, leaving Ryu himself looking at the man.
"This has... gone too far Shinjiro..." He staggered over to a wall, his open chest wound still oozing blood but slowly closing before Shinjiro's eyes. Of course, the rebuilding of the rib would take much longer, but keeping the blood inside was more important right now. "I get it... Killing is part of being a swordsman. I've... always known that." He struggled to breath, the pain making it hard to do much of anything. Shinjiro had probably already escaped from his tendrils by this point, assuming he even managed to get a hold of him at all. "But this... is wanton slaughter. There's hardly any learning to be had here. You could've used basic clones or something. This is just... Murder."
He wasn't in any shape to fight anymore; ripping out a rib tended to end most encounters. But damn it, he was going to try and give that woman a fighting chance. "Let the boy go. It's over. You win." As if Shinjiro needed Ryu to confirm his victory in this mockery of a 'mission'.
Ryu wanted to spit on the stupid parasite for calling a removed rib 'nothing major', but the sudden shift in Shinjiro's aura left Ryu searching for the man as he approached the mother. "Damn it, dumb bitch..." He cursed under his breath, still under Hisan's manifestation, as he knew there was only one way to maybe save her. Three of Ryu's tendrils would whip around to reach for Shinjiro's legs and right arm, just wanting to hold the man back for a moment, while his fourth tendril would wrap around the woman's hip, lift her up about five meters into the air, and attempt to place her down on the other side of the alley. "Go!" He choked out, barely managing to stand back up and put himself between the exit to the alley and Shinjiro. The woman would try to run, but Ryu already knew it wasn't going to help... the man before him could track her down easily if he wanted to. As he stood, Hisan's visage retracted, leaving Ryu himself looking at the man.
"This has... gone too far Shinjiro..." He staggered over to a wall, his open chest wound still oozing blood but slowly closing before Shinjiro's eyes. Of course, the rebuilding of the rib would take much longer, but keeping the blood inside was more important right now. "I get it... Killing is part of being a swordsman. I've... always known that." He struggled to breath, the pain making it hard to do much of anything. Shinjiro had probably already escaped from his tendrils by this point, assuming he even managed to get a hold of him at all. "But this... is wanton slaughter. There's hardly any learning to be had here. You could've used basic clones or something. This is just... Murder."
He wasn't in any shape to fight anymore; ripping out a rib tended to end most encounters. But damn it, he was going to try and give that woman a fighting chance. "Let the boy go. It's over. You win." As if Shinjiro needed Ryu to confirm his victory in this mockery of a 'mission'.
| Active Characters | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Village of Origin | Character Name & Link | Rank | Color |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Henrin Emi | Genin | [color=darkgoldenrod][b][/b][/color] |
| Konohagakure no Sato | Ibakuro Aiya | Chuunin | [color=#8CD600][/color] |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Kouseki Takuma | Genin | [color=#003893][b][/b][/color], [b][color=#AFBCDB][/color][/b] |
| Kirigakure no Sato | Kazuki Ryu | Chuunin | [color=#dc143c][/color], [b][color=#C71585][/color][/b] |
| Hiraku Kenji | [b][color=slategray][/color][/b] | ||
| Fukusha Jinsai | Jounin | [color=#BF0000][/color], [b][glow=orangered][color=#000000][/color][/glow][/b] | |
The Chosen
Shinjiro relaxed his ankle, pulling it free of the blade. He barely noticed any pain, it felt like nothing but a sting to him but as he stepped, he felt that it was not quite right, the achilles tendon was partially severed. Moving too fast would cause it to sever completely, though if he was patient his body would heal naturally quite quickly, enough that he could use bursts of speed sparingly if he had to. Still, he didn’t want to take any chances, the tendrils lashed out to wrap around him. It was enough of a distraction to momentarily turn his attention back to Ryu at least, as well as channel some chakra to manifest a pair of large bat wings that spread open wide with enough force to sever the tendril that grabbed his arm.
He could commend Ryu at least for continuing to protect the woman even after his injuries. That was part of his task after all, to retain the ‘knowledge’ the woman had, though if he had a mind to consider the mock missions’ parameters, he would realize that it didn’t actually matter which one he saved or which he killed so long as one of the targets remained in his possession and the other did not become Shinjiro’s captive. To attempt to save both however was rather bold and foolish, only making oneself more vulnerable and spread too thin. The woman was placed over on the other side of the wall as Shinjiro looked over the injured Chunin, noticing the blood slowing. “Oh? Do you have a healing factor?” he wondered, though his tone was still quite dark and menacing. If he could heal it simply meant that he didn’t need to hold back so much. But no matter, he was in no condition to stop him now and if he attacked him directly, he would just force him to kill the child instead. It would mean he would lose but honestly, he wanted to see Ryu succeed, to show he had the grit needed to be either a member of the seven or a head-hunter.
Flapping his powerful wings, he broke free of the hold on his legs easily and landed on the other side of the wall into a similar alleyway. Ryu stumbled around, making his way to the entrance and considerably farther away from Shinjiro and the woman than he had been before. A desperate maneuver but not without some merit. The woman had began running toward the exit at least before Shinji landed in front of her and forced her to turn back to another dead end. Ryu called out from behind him, pleading for him by name to stop. His head still in the terrifying form of an owl he decided the transformation was no longer necessary. He hadn’t even needed to hear for her frantic heartbeat to track her down, he was simply just that much faster than her. “Shi—Shinjiro” the woman realized, backpedaling before freezing in place, petrified, her terrified green eyes looking as though she had just seen a ghost. “It’s really you” she stated in disbelief. Even here in the untouchable district, the names of Kirigakure’s most famous champions reached the ears of the commonfolk. For someone of his reputation in particular it was not an unreasonable reaction.
Shinjiro listened to Ryu calling out, it was true. He had won, his prey was cornered. It was clear Ryu wasn’t intending on killing either of the two possible targets nor was he in any position to secure either of them. In fact Shinjiro even by his own mission parameters didn’t actually need to kill either of them so long as his opponent didn’t secure them. But it was by the book to kill his original target and logistically easier to take down the more cumbersome target. Beyond that, though there was something that was bothering him. Squeezing expertly on the boy’s arteries he nearly instantly choked the child unconscious; the whimpering and squirming was growing tiresome and even he had some semblance of sympathy. “Stop!” the woman chimed in weakly, silenced by a glare. “You mentioned the name Izune…do you really know that man?” he questioned, his voice low enough that it was unlikely Ryu would hear. Shinjiro’s vibrant green eyes stared the woman down, bright, but empty. Blood dripped down his right hand as his claws glistened under the dim lighting. “I..yes. I did” she stammered, navigating these treacherous waters carefully, only the slightest glimmer of hope in her bright eyes.
Ryu’s voice in the background seemed to grow quieter, the boy clenched in his hand suddenly nothing but an inconvenience. “Have it then, save him if you can” he offered, adjusting his grip to grab the child by the scruff of his shirt before tossing him overhead, aimed roughly on a trajectory with Ryu. There was a hint of a change in his voice when he switched to call the child a ‘him’ instead of an ‘it’. Something almost like sadness or remorse, or at least it was softer than his cold emotionless tone that typically accompanied his killing intent. “He’s your father, right?” the woman continued. Slowly Shinjiro began his approach, his footsteps silent, only the soft drops of blood splashing against the dirt perpetuating the ghostly silence of his gait. “Yeah” he breathed, exhaling slowly as he kept his breathing regulated and silent. “Don’t” she pleaded weakly, “You’re m..” she began, but she wouldn’t finish that sentence, his hand rose in a flash. They were still several meters apart, but it wouldn’t matter. Ryu’s blood that soaked his hand would arc through the air, forming thin lines following each of his four clawed fingers. At 36 Strength and Speed the waves of blood would easily slice through anything in its path, leaving deep lines against the back wall of the alley, several meters high. The woman would be cut clean through at several points across her body. Tears streamed from her face before her body fell apart in a new spray of blood. ‘I know’ he thought to himself. His hand twitched, trembling peculiarly and he felt a sudden tightness in his chest. “Now it’s over” he declared. “Shinobi finish their mission. There is no honor. The only truth in this world is death” he stated, lifting his head to the sky. His wings flared outward. He had thought he felt a raindrop on his face, but there were only the usual gloomy mists. Blood spray then he surmised.
He could commend Ryu at least for continuing to protect the woman even after his injuries. That was part of his task after all, to retain the ‘knowledge’ the woman had, though if he had a mind to consider the mock missions’ parameters, he would realize that it didn’t actually matter which one he saved or which he killed so long as one of the targets remained in his possession and the other did not become Shinjiro’s captive. To attempt to save both however was rather bold and foolish, only making oneself more vulnerable and spread too thin. The woman was placed over on the other side of the wall as Shinjiro looked over the injured Chunin, noticing the blood slowing. “Oh? Do you have a healing factor?” he wondered, though his tone was still quite dark and menacing. If he could heal it simply meant that he didn’t need to hold back so much. But no matter, he was in no condition to stop him now and if he attacked him directly, he would just force him to kill the child instead. It would mean he would lose but honestly, he wanted to see Ryu succeed, to show he had the grit needed to be either a member of the seven or a head-hunter.
Flapping his powerful wings, he broke free of the hold on his legs easily and landed on the other side of the wall into a similar alleyway. Ryu stumbled around, making his way to the entrance and considerably farther away from Shinjiro and the woman than he had been before. A desperate maneuver but not without some merit. The woman had began running toward the exit at least before Shinji landed in front of her and forced her to turn back to another dead end. Ryu called out from behind him, pleading for him by name to stop. His head still in the terrifying form of an owl he decided the transformation was no longer necessary. He hadn’t even needed to hear for her frantic heartbeat to track her down, he was simply just that much faster than her. “Shi—Shinjiro” the woman realized, backpedaling before freezing in place, petrified, her terrified green eyes looking as though she had just seen a ghost. “It’s really you” she stated in disbelief. Even here in the untouchable district, the names of Kirigakure’s most famous champions reached the ears of the commonfolk. For someone of his reputation in particular it was not an unreasonable reaction.
Shinjiro listened to Ryu calling out, it was true. He had won, his prey was cornered. It was clear Ryu wasn’t intending on killing either of the two possible targets nor was he in any position to secure either of them. In fact Shinjiro even by his own mission parameters didn’t actually need to kill either of them so long as his opponent didn’t secure them. But it was by the book to kill his original target and logistically easier to take down the more cumbersome target. Beyond that, though there was something that was bothering him. Squeezing expertly on the boy’s arteries he nearly instantly choked the child unconscious; the whimpering and squirming was growing tiresome and even he had some semblance of sympathy. “Stop!” the woman chimed in weakly, silenced by a glare. “You mentioned the name Izune…do you really know that man?” he questioned, his voice low enough that it was unlikely Ryu would hear. Shinjiro’s vibrant green eyes stared the woman down, bright, but empty. Blood dripped down his right hand as his claws glistened under the dim lighting. “I..yes. I did” she stammered, navigating these treacherous waters carefully, only the slightest glimmer of hope in her bright eyes.
Ryu’s voice in the background seemed to grow quieter, the boy clenched in his hand suddenly nothing but an inconvenience. “Have it then, save him if you can” he offered, adjusting his grip to grab the child by the scruff of his shirt before tossing him overhead, aimed roughly on a trajectory with Ryu. There was a hint of a change in his voice when he switched to call the child a ‘him’ instead of an ‘it’. Something almost like sadness or remorse, or at least it was softer than his cold emotionless tone that typically accompanied his killing intent. “He’s your father, right?” the woman continued. Slowly Shinjiro began his approach, his footsteps silent, only the soft drops of blood splashing against the dirt perpetuating the ghostly silence of his gait. “Yeah” he breathed, exhaling slowly as he kept his breathing regulated and silent. “Don’t” she pleaded weakly, “You’re m..” she began, but she wouldn’t finish that sentence, his hand rose in a flash. They were still several meters apart, but it wouldn’t matter. Ryu’s blood that soaked his hand would arc through the air, forming thin lines following each of his four clawed fingers. At 36 Strength and Speed the waves of blood would easily slice through anything in its path, leaving deep lines against the back wall of the alley, several meters high. The woman would be cut clean through at several points across her body. Tears streamed from her face before her body fell apart in a new spray of blood. ‘I know’ he thought to himself. His hand twitched, trembling peculiarly and he felt a sudden tightness in his chest. “Now it’s over” he declared. “Shinobi finish their mission. There is no honor. The only truth in this world is death” he stated, lifting his head to the sky. His wings flared outward. He had thought he felt a raindrop on his face, but there were only the usual gloomy mists. Blood spray then he surmised.
Jutsu UsedShow
Assassins Flight
A-Ranked Partial Kaerujutsu
This transformation allows Shinji to grow a pair of large bat wings from his upper back. Each wing is 3 meters long and 1.5 meters wide and typically brown or black in color. These wings are fully functional allowing Shinji flight capabilities. As an extension of his body Shinji has learned how to fly and move as swiftly and silently as he normally would.
Blood Reaver
S-Rank Taijutsu Maneuver
Prerequisite: 35 Strength
After dipping his claws or a bladed weapon in blood Shinji can make a powerful slash that launches a line of blood from each bladed surface used. These thin lines of blood can travel for 15 meters at a Speed and Strength equal to 4/5’s Shinji’s Strength stat. This technique can be used multiple times in quick succession though each time blood must be reapplied to the weapon.
A-Ranked Partial Kaerujutsu
This transformation allows Shinji to grow a pair of large bat wings from his upper back. Each wing is 3 meters long and 1.5 meters wide and typically brown or black in color. These wings are fully functional allowing Shinji flight capabilities. As an extension of his body Shinji has learned how to fly and move as swiftly and silently as he normally would.
Blood Reaver
S-Rank Taijutsu Maneuver
Prerequisite: 35 Strength
After dipping his claws or a bladed weapon in blood Shinji can make a powerful slash that launches a line of blood from each bladed surface used. These thin lines of blood can travel for 15 meters at a Speed and Strength equal to 4/5’s Shinji’s Strength stat. This technique can be used multiple times in quick succession though each time blood must be reapplied to the weapon.
Karagata Shinjiro - Kiri Bannin; Jinchuuriki, Overseer of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist, Kintsugi
Haziwara Youji- Iwagakure Chunin
Takeda Ichiro - A-Rank Waterfall Country; Black Wake, Chishiki, Setsuzoku
Hyuuga Takeshi - Konoha Special Jounin; Anbu
Jouchaku Shigeko - Kiri Genin; HHD
The Chosen
Ryu's stance was hardening slowly but surely, his legs wobbling less and the pain in his body slowly subsiding, though certainly not completely; His blood flow had stemmed significantly at least, but you don't really recover from having a literal rib pulled out of you like that. "Hisan... does what he can. That still... really fucking hurt though. Gah!" A bit too much movement all at once, his rib shot pain through his body again as he had to fight the urge to crumple over. Of course, in a flash of movement, The man darted towards the woman Ryu had tried to save, shirking off his tendrils as though they were nothing. They simply retreated within him again, as it was clear by this point that Ryu could do nothing to stop Shinjiro from doing whatever he wished with those two commoners.
To Ryu's surprise though, he chased the woman back into the alley and had some kind of quiet conversation with the woman. The boy was now unconscious, and Ryu found he was subconsciously gritting his teeth in frustration. "Don't do it..." He found himself speaking idly, not really speaking to Shinjiro... more speaking about him. But a moment later, Shinji tossed the unconscious boy towards Ryu, and he was quick to dive for the boy, groaning in pain as he hit the ground with the boy landing on top of him to cushion the boy's fall. "Gah! Fuck that hurts!" He rolled the boy over behind a trash can, but before he could get back up off the ground the man lashed out with blades of blood, tearing the woman apart. Ryu rolled towards the trashcan as well, trying his best to make sure he didn't get caught by the blades himself.
When it was all done, Ryu looked around at the carnage left in the alley. The blade marks digging into the wall were thin, but deep. His own body was covered in the woman's blood, and the kid was still knocked out. By the time he made it back to his feet, Shinjiro gave his last words, or what Ryu surmised to be his last words. And even now, in severe pain and still bleeding and missing a rib, Ryu defied his beliefs. "You're wrong. Overseer Kazuki reinstated the Seven for the sake of honor. He may not have respected the weak, but at least he wasn't slaying them in the streets on a whim." He spit a glob of blood from his mouth to the ground, narrowing his eyes at Shinjiro for the first time. Not with frustration or annoyance, but true anger this time. Damn the consequences.
"You're a disgrace to my father's legacy. You may have the power to be Overseer, but you have none of the decorum or ideals."
To Ryu's surprise though, he chased the woman back into the alley and had some kind of quiet conversation with the woman. The boy was now unconscious, and Ryu found he was subconsciously gritting his teeth in frustration. "Don't do it..." He found himself speaking idly, not really speaking to Shinjiro... more speaking about him. But a moment later, Shinji tossed the unconscious boy towards Ryu, and he was quick to dive for the boy, groaning in pain as he hit the ground with the boy landing on top of him to cushion the boy's fall. "Gah! Fuck that hurts!" He rolled the boy over behind a trash can, but before he could get back up off the ground the man lashed out with blades of blood, tearing the woman apart. Ryu rolled towards the trashcan as well, trying his best to make sure he didn't get caught by the blades himself.
When it was all done, Ryu looked around at the carnage left in the alley. The blade marks digging into the wall were thin, but deep. His own body was covered in the woman's blood, and the kid was still knocked out. By the time he made it back to his feet, Shinjiro gave his last words, or what Ryu surmised to be his last words. And even now, in severe pain and still bleeding and missing a rib, Ryu defied his beliefs. "You're wrong. Overseer Kazuki reinstated the Seven for the sake of honor. He may not have respected the weak, but at least he wasn't slaying them in the streets on a whim." He spit a glob of blood from his mouth to the ground, narrowing his eyes at Shinjiro for the first time. Not with frustration or annoyance, but true anger this time. Damn the consequences.
"You're a disgrace to my father's legacy. You may have the power to be Overseer, but you have none of the decorum or ideals."
| Active Characters | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Village of Origin | Character Name & Link | Rank | Color |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Henrin Emi | Genin | [color=darkgoldenrod][b][/b][/color] |
| Konohagakure no Sato | Ibakuro Aiya | Chuunin | [color=#8CD600][/color] |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Kouseki Takuma | Genin | [color=#003893][b][/b][/color], [b][color=#AFBCDB][/color][/b] |
| Kirigakure no Sato | Kazuki Ryu | Chuunin | [color=#dc143c][/color], [b][color=#C71585][/color][/b] |
| Hiraku Kenji | [b][color=slategray][/color][/b] | ||
| Fukusha Jinsai | Jounin | [color=#BF0000][/color], [b][glow=orangered][color=#000000][/color][/glow][/b] | |
The Chosen
Shinjiro felt empty, numb as what he had done settled in. He forced himself not to feel, burying that part of him. Oddly though, he recalled suddenly the feeling of holding his first true friend’s decapitated head in his hand, followed by the memory of holding his little sister's lifeless body in his arms after their older sister had drowned her to death, among other things. It was a strange connection to make, he hadn’t expected to feel anything at all, though he supposed it was difficult to completely shut out of the parts of himself that as a child had longed for the feeling of having a mother, someone to save him from the torture; the drugs, and diseases he was inflicted with while enduring beatings, lashings, electrocutions, drownings and so much more. But in the end he had still been saved, hadn’t he? The alternative was living in the slums, starving and filthy, sold out as a slave or worse. At least his father had given him a future, a purpose, provided a path to claiming his own power and making a name for himself. Now Shinjiro was one of the most powerful, wealthy and famous people in the world. And all that was asked of him in return was that he kill.
And so he did. Kill his attachments, kill his empathy and his sorrow. Kill his own mother and half-brother should they be unfortunate enough to stumble across his path one day and so they had. The only family he had were the Karagata, those whose worth and strength were proven through years of trials at the hands of Izune and their elite slaves that served as trainers. A voice broke through the silence, that calm serenity that came after taking a life. He still felt numb, coping with his actions in his own way and perhaps that was the only reason he didn’t strike out and kill the boy for his insolence. Turning abruptly, he stared Ryu down, some fire returning to his eyes that glistened from fresh tears. “And what did that get him? He was killed in the streets, no different than that woman. Your dad is dead. His legacy, his ideals don’t mean shit now. Only the strong survive and only while we live do we have the luxury of feeling like we matter” he spat, anger now rising to the surface.
In an instant he was upon Ryu, holding him by the throat as he slammed his head hard against the wall. Enough to give him a nasty concussion at the very least. He growled lowly, his vibrant green eyes alight with primal fury. In emotionally vulnerable states it became increasingly hard to keep Vorashu at bay and the Genma greedily tested the waters of what influence it could extend. For however strong his training, no matter how many lives Shinjiro took he was still human. He couldn’t always recognize his feelings clearly, having been so damaged and corrupted through a lifetime of trauma but they were still there. “Take away my weapons, the Genma inside of me and I could still kill you a hundred times over without breaking a sweat and without a second of hesitation or remorse. Take away your sword, that parasite and what are you? A weak-willed brat that has no idea what it means to sacrifice.” He spat. It would be so easy to break Ryu’s neck right there or even rip his head clean off. The slightest twitch of his hand and he would be dead. How stupid was this kid to think he could speak to a Bannin in such a way, his life hung on Shinji’s whim. And after a painstaking moment or two, assessing whether Ryu would in fact say or do something to seal his fate and further provoke him into ending his life, Shinji ultimately released him, tossing him hard across the ally into the opposite wall as easy as swatting a fly.
Turning, the Bannin began walking away and if Ryu was even conscious at this point, he would be wise to keep his comments to himself. Displaying remarkable will and mental conditioning against the primal urges Vorashu instilled in him and his own strong emotions, Shinjiro managed to regain his composure and shove his conflicted emotions deep down, hopefully to never be addressed again. “I’ll be recommending you to the Headhunter division based on the potential Hisan has displayed, not you. But until you can learn your place in the world and get over that naïve sense of self-righteousness and morality, you have no place among my swordsmen.” He declared with a great sense of finality as he flapped his wings hard and vanished into the skies before Ryu could give him further reason to snuff out the life of a promising young individual.
And so he did. Kill his attachments, kill his empathy and his sorrow. Kill his own mother and half-brother should they be unfortunate enough to stumble across his path one day and so they had. The only family he had were the Karagata, those whose worth and strength were proven through years of trials at the hands of Izune and their elite slaves that served as trainers. A voice broke through the silence, that calm serenity that came after taking a life. He still felt numb, coping with his actions in his own way and perhaps that was the only reason he didn’t strike out and kill the boy for his insolence. Turning abruptly, he stared Ryu down, some fire returning to his eyes that glistened from fresh tears. “And what did that get him? He was killed in the streets, no different than that woman. Your dad is dead. His legacy, his ideals don’t mean shit now. Only the strong survive and only while we live do we have the luxury of feeling like we matter” he spat, anger now rising to the surface.
In an instant he was upon Ryu, holding him by the throat as he slammed his head hard against the wall. Enough to give him a nasty concussion at the very least. He growled lowly, his vibrant green eyes alight with primal fury. In emotionally vulnerable states it became increasingly hard to keep Vorashu at bay and the Genma greedily tested the waters of what influence it could extend. For however strong his training, no matter how many lives Shinjiro took he was still human. He couldn’t always recognize his feelings clearly, having been so damaged and corrupted through a lifetime of trauma but they were still there. “Take away my weapons, the Genma inside of me and I could still kill you a hundred times over without breaking a sweat and without a second of hesitation or remorse. Take away your sword, that parasite and what are you? A weak-willed brat that has no idea what it means to sacrifice.” He spat. It would be so easy to break Ryu’s neck right there or even rip his head clean off. The slightest twitch of his hand and he would be dead. How stupid was this kid to think he could speak to a Bannin in such a way, his life hung on Shinji’s whim. And after a painstaking moment or two, assessing whether Ryu would in fact say or do something to seal his fate and further provoke him into ending his life, Shinji ultimately released him, tossing him hard across the ally into the opposite wall as easy as swatting a fly.
Turning, the Bannin began walking away and if Ryu was even conscious at this point, he would be wise to keep his comments to himself. Displaying remarkable will and mental conditioning against the primal urges Vorashu instilled in him and his own strong emotions, Shinjiro managed to regain his composure and shove his conflicted emotions deep down, hopefully to never be addressed again. “I’ll be recommending you to the Headhunter division based on the potential Hisan has displayed, not you. But until you can learn your place in the world and get over that naïve sense of self-righteousness and morality, you have no place among my swordsmen.” He declared with a great sense of finality as he flapped his wings hard and vanished into the skies before Ryu could give him further reason to snuff out the life of a promising young individual.
Karagata Shinjiro - Kiri Bannin; Jinchuuriki, Overseer of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist, Kintsugi
Haziwara Youji- Iwagakure Chunin
Takeda Ichiro - A-Rank Waterfall Country; Black Wake, Chishiki, Setsuzoku
Hyuuga Takeshi - Konoha Special Jounin; Anbu
Jouchaku Shigeko - Kiri Genin; HHD
The Chosen
Shinjiro began by first calling out the boy's father... if he was only strong enough, how he would have loved to tear the bastard's head off of his shoulders and crush it in his hands. Ryu started to bark back at the jinchuuriki, but in an instant he found himself pinned by the throat against a wall, Shinjiro's strength crushing his windpipe and preventing any sort of breathing while the boy continued to berate and insult him, lauding his power over Ryu. But what hurt more was the truth of it... Without his sword, he was nothing. Without Hisan, even less. He looked into Shinjiro's eyes, noting the fact that it almost seemed like there was sadness in there. His eyes were wet, but he couldn't tell what the cause was... perhaps the struggle of holding himself back from gutting Ryu right then and there was getting to him.
Still, eventually Shinjiro tossed Ryu towards a wall, his back hitting it with a resounding 'CRACK' as his arm and a few ribs broke under the power of Shinjiro. He fell to the ground, slumped over like a drunk in an alley. His eyes were closed and fluttering, but he was still conscious enough to hear what the man had to say to him. That he was being recommended for the Head Hunters, not because of Ryu's potential, but because of the damn symbiote. He had gone from being the host to the parasite... As he heard the man leave with a blast from his wings, Ryu's eyes fluttered open one more time... enough to see the child sitting over by his mother.
It almost looked like him and Ren...
Still, eventually Shinjiro tossed Ryu towards a wall, his back hitting it with a resounding 'CRACK' as his arm and a few ribs broke under the power of Shinjiro. He fell to the ground, slumped over like a drunk in an alley. His eyes were closed and fluttering, but he was still conscious enough to hear what the man had to say to him. That he was being recommended for the Head Hunters, not because of Ryu's potential, but because of the damn symbiote. He had gone from being the host to the parasite... As he heard the man leave with a blast from his wings, Ryu's eyes fluttered open one more time... enough to see the child sitting over by his mother.
It almost looked like him and Ren...
| Active Characters | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Village of Origin | Character Name & Link | Rank | Color |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Henrin Emi | Genin | [color=darkgoldenrod][b][/b][/color] |
| Konohagakure no Sato | Ibakuro Aiya | Chuunin | [color=#8CD600][/color] |
| Sunagakure no Sato | Kouseki Takuma | Genin | [color=#003893][b][/b][/color], [b][color=#AFBCDB][/color][/b] |
| Kirigakure no Sato | Kazuki Ryu | Chuunin | [color=#dc143c][/color], [b][color=#C71585][/color][/b] |
| Hiraku Kenji | [b][color=slategray][/color][/b] | ||
| Fukusha Jinsai | Jounin | [color=#BF0000][/color], [b][glow=orangered][color=#000000][/color][/glow][/b] | |