Thunderstruck! (Flashback)

Ryuko was waiting in the wings just off the main stage waiting for more people to arrive. Today was the big day. After weeks of preparation behind the scenes to maneuver everything into place and squash political dissenters everything was in place for the big announcement and for her to officially become the 4th Raikage instead of simply provisionally acting like one the way she had been ever since she’d woken back up from her coma.

Right now she was wearing a cloak so that even if someone peaked backstage they wouldn’t be able to get a very good look at her. She had put a lot of work into this particular production and she wasn’t about to spoil the effect she wanted to go for when she took to the stage and revealed herself to the crowd.

Part of her was worried about how they would react to this change, especially since she had a heck of a lot more to announce today then just the fact she was the new Raikage. There were also the chunin exam results to go over not to mention some stuff that might shake the very foundations of the country itself. One thing was for sure, it was bound to be a day that would go down in history

Mort entered the audience chamber, still carrying Excalipoor and the bokken by his side, the actual sword tied down with a ziptie to give the illusion that it was for show to ease those who weren't ninja. He had also swapped out his usual black battle kimono with white highlights with a slightly fancier Onyx black kimono with cream highlights, his headband showing he was a proper ninja swapped out for an armband today. Not many would probably notice the small differences, but he cared, and that was what mattered to him. What wasn't normal though was that he had a small bag of chocolate-caramel popcorn in each of his side pouches, as he knew fully well he'd get hungry during the proceedings, and figured that someone else may want a bag as well.

Finding a good place to enjoy the up and coming announcements he'd wonder what exactly was going to be announced. He had a feeling on what a few of them were going to be, but outside of rumors going 'round, that's all it was: guesswork. Heck even Id was silent, normally going on and on ready to mock the new information, but it'd been strangely silent. Did it know something he forgot? He'd just accept it as another mystery that would be revealed soon enough.

It had been some time since Kuro's most recent adventures, one of which was his encounter and start of business with Damien Darhk, a famous businessman in Kumo and the other wherein he had met Lady Shimiko, the wife of the current leader of the Chinoike clan in the clan's famous Wet Market and been witness to a bushmeat vendor dsiciplining his allegedly amorous apprentice. Since then, Kuro had gotten back to his daily genin routine of relentless training and study in preparation for all the missions he would surely be doing in the near future. However, his routine had been interrupted by a truly momentous announcement

So, the Raikage's coronation ceremony is today, eh? Well, this should be amusing sight to behold...and it just so happens my mind needs some respite from the assimilation of all of this information...

With that thought in mind, he readied himself in his usual mission outfit consisting of the standard Kumo ninja attire and gear along with their holsters strapped all over his person and then headed off to the site mentioned in the notice he had received about the event, aka the Raikage's grand audience chamber. Upon reaching there, he looked about for a seat at the backend of the room so that he could have a fairly comprehensive view of the entire area and also to minimize the risk of anyone or anything sneaking up on him and taking him unawares. He did notice the other male sitting further in, but for now, he decided to just let the male approach him if he wished for socialization proceedings.

Hmm...she would not have summoned everyone like this if it were merely a matter of her coronation...what else will be announced on this momentous day?

He mused silently as he waited for whoever else was authorized to be in attendance to start filing in at their leisure and for the events to progress in the situation.

---

OOC:

Text Legend:

• Italics, Unbolded, No Quotes: Kuro's silent thoughts
  
• Bold, Unitalicized, Quotes: Kuro's out loud speech
  
• Unbolded, Unitalicized, no Quotes: Kuro's actions
  

Appearance: (with holsters bearing his shinobi equipment strapped to various parts of his body in addition to the attire depicted in image)



[1]

Damien would be standing in the very back of the Audience Chamber with a look on his face that he didn't want to be there, but it had become apparent that since he was appointed the head of the hospital, he was not allowed to not show up. Still he would do his due diligence, a small display screen would cover one eye as the male manipulated two small drones that hovered in the air above the room. His HUD screen display split between the visuals on the cameras of the two drones as they recorded the events about to transpire so that it could be broadcast later, while Damien was certain most if not all from Kumogakure would be in attendance, that did not mean Ryuko would not want it broadcast to the rest of Kaminari no Kuni or even the rest of the world. Zhu Li would be standing next to Damien with her eyes scanning the crowd as they gathered, the woman would ensure that no one in the building got close to Damien unless he wished them too.

Damien would be much happier once this was all over and he could return to Moonspire to continue his more important work, until then he would simply stand and watch as the events of this gathering unfolded.

[1]

It was Ryukos big day as Yui and Yua both felt nervous, it was a huge deal Yua was shaking as Yui would move over and hug him. It would be alright the pair had failed the exams but to save a friend's life it was worth it. They did not care what they were ranked, they knew how strong they were and how strong they could be. This was a day they were glad to see, the both loved Ryuko and were glad to see her rise to the top. Nariko was also amazing but it was about time for her to be able to do other things she was interested in. The pair would cheer on those who passed the exams and became Chuunins.

"Yua this is amazing, look how cool Ryuko looks, I am so proud to know her, she's also so pretty right now."

Yua would blush and nod his head in agreement, the pair were as close to the front as possible with them wanting to make sure they heard every word of hers. They had made a promise they would change the church to make it acceptable to Ryuko, while her own religion was interesting they were set in their ways, they just had to change the church on a fundamental level. They also wondered what other announcements she would have, outside of her becoming the kage, they were sure the exams were part of it, and likely something dealing with the near revolt by the Jashin church while the pair was away.

Rini didn't really want to be here herself. Much preferring to be low key and not around people, she had to apparently show up for a promotion ceremony and have a ton of people look at her. During the Chuunin exams, she hadn't minded so much since she was focused on a fight, but there was nothing to put her focus on right now, and that was more than slightly annoying.

The faster she got through it, the faster she could go home at least. She'd dressed up in a casual tank top and shorts as usual, with a zip up jacket with her Kumogakure headband tied loosely around her neck. The young genius wasn't the biggest proponent of etiquette, and didn't mind showing up in such a manner to something as important to the Raikage and the village. She'd rather be comfortable herself.

Rather than wheeling herself all the way there, Rini used the puppet technique to have her puppet push her along so she wouldn't have to tire out her arms at all. She liked the look of the mostly metal and concrete covered puppet, it had a golem-like appearance.

She'd been told to wait backstage, and so that's where she ended up, her puppet mostly dormant, since she could handle herself for the moment. It was mostly outside that she wanted to be pushed around, but it didn't hurt to have the puppet onhand in case of emergencies. Anyone would be stupid trying to plot an assassination today though. Too many important and powerful people in attendance.

Nariko wore the robes of the Raikage for hopefully the last time, the hat placed firmly on her head signifying her rank as the Raikage. It had been several years since she had taken office as the 'temporary' Raikage, but she was finally passing the torch on to someone else, someone who could take the nation she'd rebuilt and do something great with it. Nariko knew that Ryuko would be a fantastic Kage.

She waited backstage along with Ryuko until the beginning of the ceremony. She'd have some stuff to say, and then pass on the ceremonial hat, and make it official as well. Nariko didn't mind having a hand in the proceedings, especially since she was still likely going to be the Jounin Commander of Kumogakure. In the event that Ryuko was unable to fulfill the specifics of Kageship, she'd step up to fill the shoes again temporarily. She knew how to run the nation better than perhaps any other person, so it made more sense for her to stay close to the Kageship as an advisor.

Nariko sat back in a chair, listening around to nearby conversations, trying to keep an eye on security without having an active role in it. That wasn't her job, but if anything went wrong, she would obviously jump in and be hands on. That had always been the kind of Kage she was. She'd put herself on the frontlines every time if she needed to be. Luckily, everything seemed to be running smoothly.

For an event this big, Shimiko would have loved to have been backstage with Ryuko and Nariko. This was a very important time for them and helping them get psyched up for this historic moment would have felt more right than standing outside in the crowd. Alas, as ANBU Captain it was her duty to provide security for the event. You'd have to be insane to try and attack a Kage in their own base but these days nations were getting desperate. Someone had successfully assassinated Satomi and they could try to do the same to Nariko or Ryuko. Shimiko couldn't let that happen. She had thus resigned herself to taking up a position near the center stage. From this point, she could coordinate the placement of ANBU-Nin. They had shinobi on the rooftops, in the audience, backstage, near the stage, and even underground. The Queen of Close Quarters Combat herself would join them on stage if and when necessary but for now she was waiting off to the side. She spied her twins in the crowd and gave a friendly wave to them. Shimiko was wearing her regular battle effects as described here and her eyes were constantly scanning for threats.

She could hardly believe that this day had come. Ryuko was going to be the leader of the Lightning Country. Nariko had held the position for years. She was supposed to have been a temporary Raikage. She had taken over after Seigi's demise and she had done so with the intention of stepping done after a suitable candidate had been chosen. Shimiko wasn't ready for the job and there were difficulties in picking her. The ANBU Captain understood why the time wasn't right for her. It had to be Ryuko. She would place all her faith in her new leader. It would take some getting used to but she'd make it work.

In a section all to themselves sat the Orthodoxy. Lady Superior Mora was in the center of the group. The most senior Sacristans gathered around her. They wore golden robes and were permitted to bring weapons into the arena (religious exception). Mora herself wore a flowing black and red priestly gown with a mitar crowned on her head. The most striking part of her appearance was her apparent lack of an right arm. The right sleeve of the robe hung loosely where a limb should have filled it out. Mora's one good arm gripped a long ferula topped with a twisted cross. She had a stern expression on her face. Ryuko's ascension to the seat of Raikage was rather unexpected. From what Shimiko had told her in private, the girl was Nariko's handpicked successor. They had muscled the Daimyou aside and also given her full political control. To make matters worse, she had been given some strange new ability from that heathen god of hers. It appeared Shimiko had a divine rival. The Necrossiah and this Raefala had chosen their hosts and time would tell if they'd be more foe than friend. Mora wasn't bothered by these developments. In truth, a god fearing woman was preferable to a filthy atheist. Shimiko was also closer to Ryuko than she was to Nariko. It might make removing her difficult but it also made it more likely that the Priestess would grant her Church additional concessions. They had already been gifted the Land of Hot Springs a place to expand their religion. She was unbothered that the Hakkinist were rising. With Irui, Shimiko, and the Twins in her pocket, the Orthodoxy would rise as well. Once Ryuko made good on the things that Nariko did not, she'd have no reason to oppose the Queen's rule. There could be peace between them for now but not forever. In due time, only one of the religions would have dominion over Lightning Country.

Jashin save the Queen she thought amusingly.

[1 Squad of A-Rank of NPCs for each of the places mentioned in this post]

Beep.

Beep.

Beep.

Doctor Nameda had seen plenty of strange cases in her day, from botched ninjutsu to fatal injury. But her career had scarcely prepared her for the day the Orthodox Church of Jashin collided with the ICU. It had been five weeks since the night she got the call-- a young man, torched from the face down, had been rushed to her hospital. Had it been the work of arson, modern Ijutsu would have patched the wounds swiftly. The Orthodoxy had burst into the lobby, carrying a stretcher, flanked by men and women enrobed in gold. Upon the stretcher had howled a young man, the acrid stench of burning human flesh met Nameda first. It had been the start of a long, and arduous process with the patient.

"Identification and Passes?" Requested the tall, black-cloaked agent at the door.

She sighed heavily, and pulled the lanyard from around her neck, dropping the badges into his outstretched hand. "I am Doctor Nameda Takanawa, head of the Hidden Cloud's ICU, charged with personally overseeing the recovery of Patient 'Kagase'", Nameda rolled the statement off her tongue. The doctor looked down the sterile white hallway, then up the other side. Not so long ago this hallway would have been a busy thoroughfare to the different units. Ever since the arrival of "Kagase", it had been converted into a ward exclusively for ANBU.

All she knew was the "Woman in Red" arrived nightly.

The black-robed man handed the ID's back to her and stepped to the side, letting her cart rattle through the theshold. There wasn't much that changed about the ICU. Since the ANBU had arrived, patients were IDed with codenames, all information was on a need-to-know basis, and the Hidden Cloud made every effort to screen her staff. Today her task was simple. There would be no more prodding, injections, or out-patient surgery; on the cart rested a translucent globe, upon which the Coronation displayed.

"Kagase," She murmured, stepping through the boy's door. "I know you can't attend the Coronation in person, so I have brought you the live feed." She explained, wheeling her cart into the room. Nameda set the orb beside the bed, and looked to the heavily wrapped boy sitting upright against the windowsill.

"Lady Ryuko will become the Raikage today, isn't that great?" She offered, smiling warmly as she moved about the room adjusting a few things. "How are you doing today, do we need to make adjustments to your wrappings?"

"No." He coughed out, and shifted to rest his elbow. She followed his focus, to the cloud-wreathed buildings. "I stopped using the morphine...." He added haltingly. "Keeps me awake." The boy turned slowly to Nameda now, his movements jerking and uneven as his body visibly strained. Even beneath the coverings, Nameda could see the tension twisting along his cheeks and jawline, how the muscle corded in his neck and shoulders.

Nameda folded her hands behind her back as he moved to a new position. He didn't want help; she'd seen first hand what Lightning Release spiked with adrenaline had done to a nurse. He drew breath, his lungs wheezing, and scratched at his neck.

"If you need anything, please let us know." Nameda finished, and departed leaving Patient 'Kagase' to the quiet of the room.

[Spectating from Hiospital]

Pacing around on the spot the Priestess scanned the crowd. It was smaller then she’d expected.  Not that they would have been able to fit the entire village in the audience chamber anyhow even if it was on the large side for such things but she’d gone to the trouble of inviting some prominent movers and shakers the absence of which made her heart sink.

At least one of the people she was planning to promote to Chunnin hadn’t arrived and likely won’t be.  Andariel Bloodworth had placed high in the exams and should have been one of today’s stars but was instead in the hospital suffering from a coma courtesy of the plague.   The same plague that her two good friends Natsuru and Niko were also suffering from.

Not having them here on her big day hurt but she had to put on a strong face and do her best for them.   She had to believe they would come back to her the way she had come back from her own coma.  If she didn’t she wasn’t sure she’d have the strength to keep going.  She had to succeed in her mission to make this country a better place so that they had something to look forward to when they woke up again.

Glancing at the camera’s she gave a small smile. Hopefully somewhere out in the world Nozomi would be watching this.  Ryuko would have given almost anything for her to be here today but given the current political situation that would have been difficult to accomplish.  If for no other reason then the fact Shimiko really seemed to want her dead.  

“Time to get this show on the road.” she muttered to herself. If she kept the crowd waiting much longer they’d start getting restless.   It was important they got the small stuff out of the way like announcing the exam results before moving onto the main event.  She wanted to give the kids at least some of the spotlight before she hogged it all for herself.  Putting up a hand she gestured one elegant finger sending out Oda Inazuma onto the stage.  Once the former Daiymo he was now nothing more than one of her lackeys.  Today he had one last roll to play before he would be allowed to retire.

As an older gentleman who looked to be in his mid to late sixties Oda stood before the podium in his regal looking red and purple overcoat.  Age had done nothing to diminish his commanding presence and he looked over the audience with a sharp gave as if he was sizing them up before addressing them.

“It is my pleasure to be here today for this august event.  For the last six years Lady Nariko has served the land of lightning well as the Sandaime Raikage,  she has had by far the longest reign of any of the current standing kage in any country.  From Seizing control of the Land of Frost to hosting the first shinobi world tournament she has secured many accomplishments in her time in office.  Now she has decided to embark upon a new path and I for one wish her the best of luck in her future endeavours.” He said trying to hype the crowd up by speaking highly of the current Raikage during her last day in office.

“Before we announce her successor and move on to the next era I would like to take a moment to thank her for her dedication.   Truly this country would not be where it stands today without her tireless effort.” said Oda as he turned towards Nariko who had joined him on stage as soon as the ceremony had begun and gave her a formal bow.   A gesture that had the crowds clapping.

“My good lady do you have any last words as Raikage for our audience?” he asked as she stepped aside from the podium and gestured towards it as an act of invitation.   So far he was playing the script he had been given perfectly and why would he went he had no reason to stick his neck out.  Trying to act funny now would only result in his head rolling.  He’d received Ryuko’s mercy once and he wasn’t foolish enough to try testing it’s limits.  

[2]

"Oh, guess the show's about to start then." Some old dude had come out, and while he was pretty sure he should know who he was, nothing was coming to mind. Still, it was quite clear that the man held some important position given his clothing and posture. While he spoke, he'd tune out slightly as a very particular voice was talking to him inside his mind again.

Hey, hey meatbag, you think the purple on his clothing is an attempt to make himself look hydrated to hide the raisin that he is?' 'About time you spoke up. I was actually getting worried about you again you internal enigma.' 'nuh-uh. We agreed on no spoilers if you forgot, and it's clear you did. And you didn't answer the question.' 'Okay yeah he does look a little like a raisin.' He'd mentally sigh, and tuned back in while continuing his banter with his Id inside his mind, making very sure he didn't speak out loud on accident.

When the man had moved on to her achievements involving his ancestral home, he'd frown a little. While he wasn't quite from the main branch of the Kurama as they were from the land of Frost and he was from the land of Fire, he did for a very short time live in Frost and every once in a while he'd still hear grumblings from the clan about how the land was 'unfairly taken from them without their consent', even though they didn't actually control the Land of Frost when it was integrated into Kumo's banner.

Now that he's thought about it, didn't actually know much about Nariko. Sure he has encountered her once during the whole 'let's put the Kurama clan in Kumo', but other than that, he knew more about her assistant than, well her. Outside of 'was Raikage,' he never bothered to do any research on her, and what info he did learn he usually forgot. He'd pull out a small handful of the popcorn, using a tiny amount of chakra to muffle the sound of him eating. He'd briefly pause to join in on the clapping to not be outed, but shortly after he'd quietly go back to his chocolaty-caramel snack.

Kuro had been watching everyone file in slowly but steadily from his seat at the very back of the audience chamber.

My, there seem to be quite a few important individuals in attendance today.

He thought silently in an idle manner as he watched the proceedings move forward. As they did, he noticed the woman of the hour step forward and summon an important looking old man to the stage and said old man had then swept a sharp gaze across the audience

Is he trying to take everyone's measure, perhaps?

Kuro mused silently as he listened to the old man who had begun to speak about the previous Raikage's historical accomplishments and her outstanding level of service to the Lightning Country and Kumo village. As he listened, he made sure to take mental notes just in case he needed this information about "Lady Nariko" sometime in the future for whatever purpose. After that, when the old man had bowed to the woman in question, since the rest of the crowd began to clap, he did too, of course, though not out of actual appreciation, simply because that was what everyone else was doing and also because he figured it was expected of him to follow suit. All the while, he had a polite, porcelain smile on his face and waited for the events to progress where they may at their own pace.

[2]

"And we're live in 3... 2... 1..." Damien said quietly, though it was doubtful anyone with the exception of Zhu Li heard him. It was mostly said for his own benefit, activating two more drones to join the two he already had in the air as the curtain came back and Lord Oda approached the podium. The live feed being broadcast would alternate between the visuals from the four drones built in cameras while two would provide different angles of those on the stage the other two would provide a mixture of views of the crowd as well as the stage from a further distance back when needed. He would make sure to include visuals of the Orthodoxy, with Lady Mora the center of focus as one of the drones panned in front of her while also ensuring to keep the drones out of peoples view of the stage. There would be nothing worst than panning to a view of the audience just to see them trying to look around the camera. The drones would pan around Shimiko as well, though Damien took extra care to ensure they say out of the way of the Anbu captain and her Subordinates working to keep the event safe. After panning over the crowd, Damien would switch to the feed of one of the drones closer to the stage. Getting Rini, Nariko, and Ryuko on screen briefly before going back to the man who had now reached the podium. As the old man began speaking the focus would turn to him, Damien wasn't really paying attention to what the man was saying. The male's focus solely on ensuring that the camera feeds and everything on the technical side of this event went without a hitch. Whenever the man motioned toward Nariko and the crowd began to cheer, Damien would quickly switch the feed to a close up of Nariko before panning out so that it could show her approach to the podium.

[2]

The twins would continue to watch the people enter, they were nervous and hoped no one was foolish enough to start a fight here. The tensions were high after the war that had happened and the Jashin was still not a force the twins trusted, they would soon have control but for now, they would simply make sure to stop any foolish actions they could have. Some hated the fact another religious leader was becoming Kage instead of a Jashin and they had heard rumors someone may make an attempt on Ryuko's life, they would make sure that could never happen, however. They meant every word to Ryuko they would change the church and make the religion better and the village and country better.

"Yua keep a close eye out, if someone looks suspicious tell me and we can stop them, we won't allow anyone to interfere, this is for the good of the village. We will kill anyone that dares to start trouble and crush them in an instant."

Yua would nod as they watched over the crowd, this was when she saw a man in a black cloak with something is hidden in his hand moving forward to the front. He would tap Yui on the shoulder as the pair would move behind the man, watching his every action, it appeared he had several explosive tags in his hand, this was likely cover. He would create a distraction for the real attack, no way they would let him however as Yui would move behind the man and smile with her hand going through the man's body. He would turn shocked to see the priestess behind him as he would slump over some, she would create some sand below their feet and drop his body down with her using the sand to swallow him up and bury him until after the event.

"Yua I am sure there are others, lets keep ourselves sharp we cannot allow anything to happen to lady Ryuko, Shimiko or Nariko."

Nariko stepped out onto the stage as Oda gave his speech. She smiled at him, maintaining a good public face, regardless of her distaste for the man. The Daimyou and her had always known who really held the power in Kumogakure, and Nariko wasn't really shy about it. In order to get things done and help the nation, she had needed executive power, so for the most part, she'd had complete control of the nation in all matters. Political, military, and all that those encompassed.

Gazing out over the crowd, Nariko took off the Raikage hat and placed it on the podium. "Thank you, Lord Oda." she nodded in his direction. "The past 6 years have gone by fairly fast. When I became the Raikage, it was always with the intention that it would be temporary, but I never would have thought I would still be in the position after all this time." She laughed a little, showing some humor in the scenario.

"In all that time, I've always been looking for a suitable replacement, keeping an eye out for a candidate who could not only perform the duties of the job, but was ready for the responsibility, and most importantly, wanted the position. I would never force this job on anyone who wasn't ready. In 6 years, the suitable candidates have been very few, but none fit the bill more than my two students, Shimiko and Ryuko. I view both of them as my family and trust them with my life. Shimiko is the sister of the 2nd Raikage, Lord Seigi, so many would have naturally thought of her as the next candidate, and she was considered heavily for the role."

"It was a tough decision, to be sure, and this is in no way a slight towards Shimiko. She's a very capable warrior, maybe the best this village has ever produced, and I'd have nobody else above her at my side in times of war, but Ryuko has always embodied what I think is the best fit to lead the nation. I'll be staying on as the Jounin Commander, to advise your new Raikage in the future, but I think for now, it's best to pass down the position to someone who is ready and willing to become the new face of Kumogakure. So, without further ado, I invite Lady Ryuko out to the stage."

She stepped off to the side, waiting for Ryuko to take the stage.

Rini watched the proceedings with a casual disinterest. There wasn't anything going on that really kept her attention. She was more interested in the micro politicking going on with Oda and Nariko. Something about how they minded each other showed Rini that there was something else going on behind the scenes. The Daimyou seemed almost uncomfortable to her. It was unlikely other people knew, but Rini had heard the Daimyou speak before. There was something different there.

And then there was Lady Mora. Something had happened to her, and recently. She had been present during the riots, and Mora was a complete person then. Now there was something missing there. She was interested in figuring that one out. It amused the girl that some religious zealot who thought she was important ended up getting what was coming to her. The Jashinists were losing power, their showing of force hadn't gone how they'd planned it.

Of course, if they had successfully coup'ed, she would have been all for them. When it came down to it, her allegiances were fickle enough to only do what she needed to to survive. It didn't really matter who the leader was, they were all more or less the same. Whatever they wanted, they all used their ninja and followers in whatever way they saw fit, and Rini was fine with playing the part of whoever she needed to be as long as she could gather information and build things.

Staying hidden behind his mask. He was tasked with providing security on this ceremonious occasion. He was dressed in a black coat covering up his ANBU ninja outfit. Armed of course to the teeth. He stood far in the back against the wall in a corner. Where he could overlook the entire area and the stage. Shimiko would also be guarding so he wasn't worried. This was a more appropriate position for him. He wasn't the most sociable person to be around. He had come a long way of course, but his time in the ANBU had made him value the secrecy and absence of friends. It was better not explaining the dark deeds he was tasked to doing. At least today was different. His sensei was getting her just due.

Finally waking up from her coma, she took charge immediately. Making sure she still one of the most deadly ninja in the world. Proven so much that even Nariko thought that she was ready to be the next Raikage. He thought that was his destiny. But he knew that his skills would be needed for a different battle. For now he would protect his temporary home for now. And enjoy his sensei's coronation.

Tamwyn moved into the Audience Chamber quietly and without drawing the attention to himself. He was dressed in his usual attire, which most would think meant that one wasn't well dressed at all for such an occasion however they would be far from the truth. He was dressed in a black suit and vest, black slacks and a hoodless cloak to match. His shoes were of course black as well and reinforced with metal tips and plating to give them a measure of safety from the elements. His cloak was attached via a gold buckle that had the Kumogakure symbol engraved upon the precious metal. His hat was on his person as well, however it was off his head. His platinum blonde, chin length hair combed back and his hat in his hand. It was rude to wear them to such an event and he had no intention of being such. He stood in the book, not trying to push through the crowd and be seen as overly rude. He was the one that had gotten here later after all, not him. Besides, his senses were more than good enough to give him a good enough view to look at the stage and listen as Lady Nariko spoke of her students and how one of them would become the next Raikage.

Just not the one everyone might have expected until recently. From what he knew Lady Shimiko had been the only one of Lady Raikage's student that had been around for a long time. For Lady Ryuko had been in a coma and had not woken up. Until recently that is, and when she had she had immediately taken charge. Tamwyn wondered if Lady Shimiko harbored resentment over that or if she was genuinely supportive. He didn't know her well, actually, she didn't really know her at all. So it would be difficult to say in the best of cases what his fellow blonde would think of the situation. Still, regardless it was Ryuko who would be in charge of the village and taking them all into a new era. The era of the Yondaime Raikage, the yellow eyed genin wondered if it would be a prosperous one or not. Only time would tell in the end, but no matter what happened he would have a front row seat. For this was his home, and it didn't matter who sat within the chair, he would stand with it through it's darkest times, and it's brightest ones.

This was it, this was the do or die moment. Once she went up to the podium and she would officially become the next Raikage and there would be no turning back. She was sure that as a member of the nobility that there were already people who wanted her dead, if nothing other than sheer jealousy. Others like some of the more extreme Jashinest would want her gone for more religious reasons.

It was nothing she couldn’t handle before but now she’d be painting a big target on her back in more ways than one. She was sure that despite her efforts to appease the rival church and mend the rift the civil war had caused there were some even among her own Church who resented her, something that would only be amplified by some of her upcoming announcements.

Taking a few steps forward Ryuko approached the stage with her clock still covering her. Dropping it only once she reached the stand to reveal her brand spanking new armor. Polished white adamantite steel which glimmered in the sunlight coupled with golden accents that made her seem a mixture of both pure and almost angelic even though she wasn’t currently tapping into Raefala’s power. Most striking of all was the fact she was actually wearing her kumo headband for once, something she usually never bothered with thought she wouldn’t be wearing it for much longer if everything went smoothly.

“Thank you Lady Nariko. Your words are far too kind.” She said with a wan smile. Being so formal with her mentor felt so off after all this time. It reminded her of the time when they had first met back when Ryuko had been uncomfortable simply addressing her leader on a first name basis the way she would casually do so now if they weren’t in front of the entire freaking country.

“While I doubt an introduction is necessary for most of the people in attendance I shall endeavor to enlighten those that might not have heard of me already. I am Lady Ryuko Shizu Von Rose, Vestal of the The Divine Church of Hakkin and the Yondaime
Raikage” she said her full full name and titles which was a bit of a mouthful.

“Now I know that some of you are concerned that as an authority figure in the Church of Hakkin that I will make worship of my god mandatory but I can assure you that couldn’t be further from the truth. Tis very important to me that people have the freedom to choose for themselves what to believe in.” she said dramatically with a sweep of her arms.

“The truth is we are all born incomplete into a universe of our own making. We all need something to fill that void, To make us feel like we exist for a reason. For some people, that’s family. For others art. But some of us need a god to fill that void, to make our lives feel like they mattered. It’s ok if you don’t, Science is probably better at telling you what to believe. Religion is more about what you need to believe.” She said words that might be shocking for some to hear coming out of the mouth of a devout priestess.

In the end she didn’t think it mattered if someone’s god was real or not as long as their need for them was, but there was no way she could utter that part out loud without possibly offending a good chunk of the audience who would think she was making light of their religion.

“I have some more announcements to make which partain to this subject but before I elaborate further let us first discuss the results of the recently completed chunin exam. I will now begin listing off the fine warriors to be promoted and the reason for their advancement. I shall start with Andariel Bloodworth who unfortunately is not in attendance with us today. Andariel preformed exceptionally in the exam claiming the 4th best results overall in a stunning come back victory. For that I declare her Chunin.” said Ryuko as she paused for the crowd to give a round of applause.

“Next is Rini Nakamura.” said Ryuko as she gestured for Rini to come onto the stage. “For Reaching the finals and your display of unwavering determination against overwhelming odds I declare you Chunin!” she said as she took a flak jacket out from behind the podium and handed it to Rini.

“Do you have any words to say to our audience?” asked Ryuko as she gave Rini a chance to speak her piece about the exam and her advancement before continuing with the ceremony. Given how the finals had gone and how some of the people who had participated in them hadn’t even come back to the village. Everyone expected her to be done announcing new Chunnin already which was why what she had to say next would come as a surprise particularly to the people whose name she was about to speak. After all she hadn't told anyone she was going to do this, not even Shimiko.

“And Finally Yui and Yua Chinoike! For knowing when to prioritize the life of a comrade over a mission, I declare you Chunin!” she said as she waved to the twins to come up onto the stage and join her. Usually people were drilled from a young age at the academy that the mission came first but Ryuko didn’t necessarily agree.

Yes there were some missions where you had to complete them no matter what but many were simply too small potatoes for someone to throw their life away over. As the Raikage she didn’t want her forces to think of their lives as something to be thrown away cheaply. By Promoting the twins she was making a statement that she was not going to treat her man as though they were disposable.

[3]

Doctor Nameda strolled down her stark white ICU wing with the cart rattling. Slowly but surely, the hospital wing crackled to life with the sounds of the coronation, as the Globes hummed with the live-feed of the event. Her ears pricked, and lips smiled, as she heard the names and familiar voices of the presenters bouncing from each room. She parked the cart in the nearest closet, and pulled the last sphere from the top, cradling it in her arms like an infant.

Deftly, she adjusted the view with a swipe of her fingers. The cameras now played across the audience, showing a diverse crowd of shinobi, from members of the Orthodoxy, to a few individuals her staff had treated in the past. Nameda set the sphere in its holder at her desk, letting the speeches drone on in the background. As grand as the Raikage's Administration was making the coronation, it was ultimately a move of political theater, a way to appease the masses, the national government and secure a nonviolent future.

"Kagase, Amamori, Barakuda, Marin..." She tutted to herself, as she ran down the list of patients, check-marking their names. From the top she circled back around to Kagase's charts.

"--“While I doubt an introduction is necessary for most of the people in attendance I shall endeavor to enlighten those that might not have heard of me already. I am Lady Ryuko Shizu Von Rose, Vestal of the The Divine Church of Hakkin and the Yondaime Raikage--”

Nameda cast her dark eyes to the globe, and the radiant figure standing at the podium.

"--“Now I know that some of you are concerned that as an authority figure in the Church of Hakkin that I will make worship of my god mandatory but I can assure you that couldn’t be further from the truth. Tis very important to me that people have the freedom to choose for themselves what to believe in.“The truth is we are all born incomplete into a universe of our own making. We all need something to fill that void, To make us feel like we exist for a reason. For some people, that’s family. For others art. But some of us need a god to fill that void, to make our lives feel like they mattered. It’s ok if you don’t, Science is probably better at telling you what to believe--"

Nameda couldn't help but let out a chuckle. Finally someone had it right! Smiling to herself, she plucked the chart from the table, took a moment to stretch and carried on her way back towards Room 245.

There was an enthusiastic cheer as Nariko, Ryuko, and Lord Oda took the stage. Shimiko smiled as the leaders of the nation congregated to address the people. Her smile was extra-broad because she was keenly aware of the drones that were flying around in the airspace. Truth be told, the devices made her a tad bit nervous. She didn't know much about Darkh Industries but Ryuko had given the company a lucrative contract to do business in Kumogakure. Shimiko was partial to the Stag Emporium given that they had made the Badger's Claws but she decided to trust Ryuko's judgment on this one. She gave a pleasant and cheerful smile to the cameras as they zoomed in on her. She couldn't afford to be anything less than all smiles for the people at home. Kumo had been through some rough times and times were about to get rougher. If she looked worried, annoyed, or concerned then that energy would transfer to the masses. She could already hear the late night talk show hosts: "If the legendary Shimiko Chinoike is uncertain about our future then things must be pretty bad!"

Shimiko kept her hands clasped behind her back as she listened to Lord Oda's farewell address. The man had been cowed since their earlier meeting. He knew what was good for him and his family though. She listened as he lauded Nariko's six year tenure as Raikage. Shimiko was tired of hearing from the man but she was pleased that his last words were of praise to her beloved sensei. Eventually, Nariko took the stage and went on to discuss how she had ended up choosing Ryuko.

Shimiko had expected a public statement on the matter. It was common knowledge that Shimiko was one of the strongest ninja in the world. Additionally, her position as ANBU Captain, sister to the Second Raikage, and student of the Third Raikage made her a natural favorite. However, actually selecting her for the job was fraught with political and practical difficulties. The Orthodoxy was still feared in Kumo and to place one of their own in the position of Kage would be far more controversial than that of a Vestal. There was, of course, Shimiko's temper to consider. She was a warrior born but she lacked the political guile that Ryuko possessed. The people of Kumogakure needed to understand that this decision was not a slight to the Honey Badger in any way. Gossip columns and tabloids would have a field day with such a narrative and it was incumbent upon the three of them to defeat such divisive rhetoric. Shimiko looked at her Kage approvingly as Nariko spoke favorably of them both. When Nariko introduced Ryuko to the podium, Shimiko unclasped her hands so that she could clap.

Ryuko's armour was truly something to behold. Just as Shimiko's armour was a visual representation of her ethos as a warrior (sleek, sensual, and built for assassination), Ryuko's armour was much the same. It was angelic and regal but with a denser character to it. It was a symbol of her innocence and grace but also of her fierce determination. Ryuko introduced herself as the new Raikage and publicly promised to respect all religions. However, when she implied that religion was about what people "needed to believe" Shimiko's smile faded a touch. Public pronouncements that reeked of atheism were a hard pill for the Church to swallow. Shimiko was careful not to react too obviously to the statement but her eyes looked over to the section where Lady Mora was sitting. She was visibly displeased.

The Lady Superior's face was like stone and several of the Jashinists had a look of absolute disdain on their faces. To have a supposedly godly woman impinge on faith was a grave act. Sacristan Anne was about to get up and leave the ceremony in protest but Mora's good hand shot out and stopped her from fully getting up. The grey haired woman's eyes said it all:

Her time will come....

The Sacristan remained seated but it was clear that Ryuko's comments had rankled the lot of them. Shimiko looked forward and did her best not to show anything but cheerfulness. I need to talk to Ryuko about that bit later... All parties understood that now was not the time to make a beef over Ryuko's choice of words. Fortunately, the chill of the Raikage's apostasy passed and the ceremony moved on to less controversial matters. The announcements for the Chuunin Exams were next on the agenda. Andariel Bloodworth was made Chuunin as was Rini Nakamura. Shimiko had heard of the latter's stellar performance in the Final Round, but what she found curious was that the girl was a paraplegic. She had long looked down on those with such debilitating physical handicaps. There was a time when she would have longed to kill them on the spot. What good was a life spent ill and infirm? In Shimiko's eyes it was better to be one with the void of God. However, Rini's outstanding performance had made her reconsider her past assumptions when it came to the differently abled.

She'd need to speak with Rini soon about her future as a Kumogakure shinobi. Once Rini had accepted her award and said her piece, Shimiko would expect Ryuko to move on to a different topic instead she announced one more promotion.

“And Finally Yui and Yua Chinoike!  For knowing when to prioritize the life of a comrade over a mission,  I declare you Chunin!”
"Yui and Yua!"

Shimiko mouthed their names as she looked at them in astonishment. She hadn't expected the twins to be promoted. She had read their minds and gauged their performance firsthand. Shimiko had a very means-end approach to the profession. Sacrificing your comrade's lives for a shot at victory was justifiable in her mind although she was likely to make exceptions for her friends and family. Therefore, objectively, she did not expect the twins to be promoted. She was glad that they made the decision to look after Miyu but she knew that examiners tended to be rather strict when it came to promoting genin. She had berated Akihiro for his assessment but as the years passed she had no choice but to accept the fact that he was right. If they weren't ready then they weren't ready. Shimiko was surprised that Ryuko felt differently though and in all honesty she was elated. She was worried that she had been a bad mother and teacher to her twins. Ryuko's decision to promote them was a positive reflection on her efforts as their caretaker and so for that announcement she was proudest, loudest, and most enthusiastic member of the audience. On their way to the stage, they'd probably walk past her and when they did she'd give them each a hug and a kiss.

"I'm so proud of you two! Congratulations!"

This was their moment to shine. Like Ryuko, they had each come along way. Once battered and abused orphans they were now a shining light and example of what a ninja could do when they accepted God into their lives.

Popping in another piece, he'd slow down his popcorn intake as Nariko spoke, and when she brought up the two candidates for Raikage, it came back to him. 'Oh right! She had mentioned she was becoming Raikage when she called us in, didn't she?' 'You just remembered? Dumbass.' 'It's not like I tried to forget. Honestly I'd put money down you're the reason I forgot.' No response. Probably for the best though, as the more he argued with Id, the less he payed attention to the proceedings. Speaking of the proceedings, it seemed that Nariko had left the stage and Ryuko had taken it instead.

As she went over her concerns of church and state, he couldn't help but be a little worried. Sure he wasn't religious in the normal sense, a mix of Ignosticism and Pantheism was probably the closest thing one could call whatever he belied, though the amount of times he half-joked about the 'Goggle Gods' as well as declaring he'd defeat a god one could easily assume otherwise. But in a place as religious as Kumogakure, it was a little concerning as he recalled a some of their discussions on faith from before.

Thankfully she didn't stay on the subject for too long, and on came the announcements for Exam promotions. While he didn't recognize Andariel or the twin Chinoikes, Nakamura reminded him of someone he hadn't thought about in a while. She looked a lot like someone he knew as a child, but the features were different. It was odd, like looking at a ghost, but they weren't the same. Yoru was gone, and Nakamura was someone else. He'd clap along with the others, but stopped eating his popcorn.

The camera's wouldn't miss a second of the events that unfolded, from the words that were spoken by Nariko announcing Ryuko as her successor as Raikage to Ryuko's announcement of promotions to Chuunin and all of the crowds reaction along the way, even the dark clad male that came in during Nariko's speech would be caught on camera. Despite his attempt to stay impartial to the events that unfolded, Damien could not help but smile when Nariko had named Ryuko as the next Raikage. He had known the woman was meant for great things, yet he had no idea when he struck their deal with her that she was going to be Raikage. This would bode well for Darhk Industries, though now was not the time for such thought. The male would quickly wipe the smile off his face and returned his focus to recording, the male's face went to one of agony as Ryuko spoke of religion. Damien was not a religious man, he was a man of science. If it had been a private conversation he would have responded with the ultimate question, 'is it really a god of you can kill it?' It was a question that always got dirty looks from the religious folks that came to visit, but his research into the mortal coil has revealed things that made him believe that all these talks of gods were merely men or women who obtain power beyond the normal understanding. Yet he was not normal, he asked the question many times and yet no one had the answer. The answer was simple, at least to Damien. No they are not a God, there are those with power and those without and those with power are merely depicted as gods because they are gods among men. But if they are mortal then they can be killed and if they can be killed then their not a God. It was possible that one day, even he could be revered as a God. As Ryuko got to the results of the Chuunin exams, she began with someone who wasn't even in attendance before making Rini Nakamura a Chuunin. Damien knew the name, yet had not met the young finalist from the exams. That was something that he would have to change some how, as she could prove to be a very valuable resource for Darhk Industries. Once Rini was done Ryuko would name one final name, or rather a set of names Twins. The reaction from the crowd was obvious, it was an unexpected development. Damien would move one of the drones that had been panning the audience to find the twins to get their reaction to the news, and cover their approach to the stage.

[3]

This all felt a little too familiar for Seigi, and it made him uncomfortable.

Massive crowds usually attracted massive threats and Seigi's instincts were on high alert. Seigi was backstage,near the actual stage and events, watching as Ryuko gave the first words of her speech. A white fox mask covered his face, hiding his identity to all except Shimiko and Ryuko, and of course Mr. Oda. He didn't know how the rest of Kumogakure would take to him revealing himself in ANBU garb, but he preferred it this way. He didn't want to put on a show, he wanted to show the crowd the grit their "former" kage had built up defending them. He had prepared himself mentally and stepped back into the mindset of his alternate self, that being of the cold and hardened leader of Kumogakure. For Seigi, it was like slipping on a pair of shoes, or shaking the hand of someone familiar. Seigi would take a deep breath, keeping his gaze on the crowd and Ryuko. He was so focused, he didn't even notice the Twins, shaking his head when they walked into view, making a mental note to congratulate them later. He was kind of excited to finally not have to hide his face or appearance inside Kumogakure.

For now, however, he would kindly wait to spring into action or two make his way to the stage, whatever the universe handed him first.

Kuro had been listening to the old man named Lord Oda drone on and on in his praise for the previous Raikage, Lady Nariko and after a while he had actually been forced to stifle a yawn that threatened to escape his lips.

Is this man ever going to stop? Good grief...

He thought silently while ensuring to keep his face perfectly neutral and inscrutable on the outside as he did not wish for any in attendance to notice, especially since he had noticed what looked like drones with cameras flying about, presumably recording the proceedings in the ceremony on stage. Thankfully, Lord Oda had finally stopped speaking and had given way to the previous Raikage, Lady Nariko, to come onto the stage and speak her piece.

So Lady Shimiko and the new Raikage, Lady Ryuko, had studied under this Lady Nariko, eh? That's intriguing and good to know. Perhaps it would be prudent to file that away for future reference.

He thought silently as he memorized the faces he was seeing and registered their words as well, though more because that's what he was expected to do as a Kumo shinobi and not because of any personal interest or involvement with the matter. Eventually, the new Raikage in question, Lady Ryuko, was invited onto the stage to make her grand revelation and it was certainly dramatic and grand enough to impress, judging from the loud cheers and applause issuing from all corners of the chamber. Kuro studied what he could see of her armor-like garb from his position at the back of the chamber and made a mental note of it too in case he would need to recognize her in the future if he was ever face to face with her.

That is an impressive looking armor piece. It must have cost her a fortune, but then she IS the Raikage after all, so perhaps her finances could handle the cost.

When she came onto the stage, Kuro had clapped and cheered along with the rest of the crowd for his new leader and then settled down to listen to her speech. His lips twisted slightly into a smirk when he heard her say that she was not going to force anyone to believe in her God, apparently called Hakkin and even more so when he heard her say that science was much better at telling people what to believe instead

This is certainly promising, for it would be so droll to be forced into an artificial belief system such as religion against my will. Lady Ryuko certainly does have a way with words, most impressive, indeed.

However, something else intriguing had caught his eye, and that was the fact that a great many in the crowd had shown looks of disdain on their faces with one even getting up to leave before being stopped by one of their own.

Well, looks like some in Kumo will be dissatisfied in the days to come, though of course, it is silly and impossible to accommodate everyone. So, it is only to be expected, perhaps.

He thought silently as he briefly glanced at the group in a sidelong manner before returning his attention to Lady Ryuko, the new 4th Raikage and her speech. He mused with that smirk on his face and then listened further to the current announcements which were about the Chunin Exams that had taken place. Most of the names were not ones he was familiar with, but at the end, he had heard the names of two fellow Chinoike also being promoted to Chunin. Of course, he did not know them personally, but nevertheless he clapped and cheered just as loudly as Lady Shimiko had for them since they were after all, part of his clan, the Chinoike. Afterwards, he settled down and continued to watch the proceedings, hoping that the ceremony would be over soon while maintaining that perfectly neutral and inscrutable face.

---

OOC:

[3]