Cage..

The fire would do exactly as he had expected it would do and the bear would roar in pain and agony as the flames overtook it, causing it's fur to catch and the creature, merely an animal, would react in the way of all such creatures. He would haul ass away from what was hurting it. So the creature turned and began to ran, charging out from the cave as it's best speed. However as it exited it would have to go past Valen and the swordsman would not let the creature leave without a parting gift. As the bear began to move toward the exit, and Valen himself. He would draw his katana and move to the side, clearing the exit for the bear as it ran and ending the fire jutsu, ensuring he himself was not damaged any more. However as the bear passed him he would fall into his kendo stance and move to swipe at the creature as it passed, making sure to keep out of it's actual path. His blade should be of good enough quality to cut well into the creature, even through the thick fur that it had and the sharp edge of the katana would be aimed to bite deeply into the back of the bears left limbs, both the front and back. The aim to hinder the creature deeply upon a possible return. Or to at least make it easier to hunt later if necessary.

With that done, Valen would flick any blood off the blade before sheathing it and turning to look into the cave to see what was within. Of course it smelled of bear but it would seem the creature would at least not have used the cave as a bathroom. Preferring to do that outside wherever it might be hunting. Valen made a mental note to definitely boil any water before drinking it. After taking the time to explore the cave he would nod his head in approval. It should be big enough for the three of them with no trouble at all and with that he would turn and move toward the exit. He was not worried about finding his way back to the cave. His years at sea had given him an unerring sense of direction and he could always retrace his steps. Always able to find his way back to where he had come no matter what tended to occur. So with that he would move off into the fog, intent upon finding his two companions to lead them here. He would move through the island as quietly as he could while searching for them and being on the lookout for danger in general as he searched. The explosions from earlier had to have come from someone and he did not have a guarantee they had come from an ally.

Should he stumble across Blitz, he would do a quick check of his teammates wounds, although he was no doctor himself. About all he could do was cauterize them with his sword and he would do so. Taking the metal blade and heating it with his fire chakra, he would press the side of the blade against each wound after ensuring there was no more debris such as grass, dirt, leaves, stone shuriken, and such in them. Of course during this process he would place a thick stick he would find nearby into the boys mouth to keep any screams as muffled as he could. Each cauterization would cause great pain to the young man but Valen would work on, focusing on the wounds that looked worse first. It might not have been the most efficient, but it was the best he could do at the moment given he did not know anything about helping the wounded beyond this rather brutal method of stopping the bleeding.

[2]

Takano's breath fogged the air ahead of him, a barely visible white cloud against the endless swirling mist, disturbed by the short but intense battle. The Uzumaki had never performed so many high level jutsu in succession before, not even during the War. There, he had been supported by his family and comrades, ensuring that he didn't burn himself out prematurely. In this place however, all he had to rely upon was himself and his own skills, a fact that sent a surge of primal excitement through him.

Annoyed, Takano shook the caveman from his body, trudging heavily through the mist. There was little left of the furs that the two closer assailants had wore (his self-made explosive tags were not exactly set at minimum force), but the Kirigakure shinobi nonetheless picked up the tattered remains, as well as giving the scorched bodies a quick search. One never knew what an enemy would choose to bring with them after all. Anything he found would be tossed in his backpack or sealed in one of his larger storage scrolls for later use.

Following the trough his Colliding Water Wave had carved in the mud, Takano would find more half-frozen pirates, some dead, some merely on the razor's edge of it. The ninja's face was expressionless as he gave mercy-killings to the latter, a slight twisting of his lips being the only indication that the Uzumaki was not a totally hardened killer. Takano was a practical and through soul, determined to protect those he cared for and bring honor to his family name. However, rummaging through a dead man's pockets right after you buried a knife into his half-frozen throat never really grew easier.

Assuming that no trouble cropped up during the looting, Takano's attention would then turn to a set of narrow set of boot tracks, heading off into the forest. He weighed his options: while he really wanted to ensure this batch of enemies was destroyed in its entirety, Takano also knew he was tired, down on supplies and hungry. Any offensive action he took at this point came with a very real risk of burning out his chakra reserves before he had the freedom to hunt. Still, a little reconnaissance won't hurt anything. Maybe I can get some idea of Sero's strategy.

As Valen set about cauterizing Buri's wounds, Takano would drop out of the trees a few feet away, slinging his backpack off his shoulder and scrambling for his medkit. "I leave you alone for one fucking day and this is what fucking happens." Takano growled at the limp body, dropping to his knees in the churned mud and taking stock of Blitz's wounds. The bloodloss alone was quite severe, and that wasn't even counting the fact that he was essentially stabbed by dirt and all of the bacteria within. Unfortunately, Takano was no medical specialist, and he couldn't simply dismiss the wounds with a wave of his hand or ensure Blitz's survival. He had to work with what he and Valen had. He turned to Valen, "Keep going, I'll patch up behind you. Do you have anywhere we can take him? My camp is a little exposed for someone wounded this badly."

As Valen cauterized the wounds, Takano would follow behind with hastily prepared bandages dapped with spare amounts of grain alcohol, clumsily wrapped around the worst of the wounds. He didn't even bother trying to stich up the wounds: for all the experience he had, it was likely he would just make Blitz's blood loss even worse.

Sero would watch quietly with cold blue eyes. Hovering just on the edge of keeping them within his sight. His head tilted as he watched. Simply observing them quietly despite the wounds and drastic measures they had to take to save him. It was a simple jutsu and one Blitz would have been more capable against had he paid closer attention. However he seemed to be taking this training session lightly. Those cold blue eyes showed nothing of concern or mercy however. They simply observed. The captain would return with others in a short time or Sero would hunt him down. He had no concern about Blitz dying from such a simple attack. If anything they would need to tend to him and have someone wounded slowing them down. He wondered if they would request he surrender and be removed or not. But he would have to say the words. Otherwise Sero would keep him there until either they all passed or all three failed. It was clear he wasn't going to pull him even for this. One of the proctors would step ass if out of the mist itself next to him and Sero would watch a moment longer before turning his head to speak to them.

"Remind them of the rules."

It was all he said before the proctor would nod and seem to vanish from next to him back into the mist. Reforming by all visual aspects from the mist when instead he was just good at hiding within it. The person in the Nightmare brigade uniform would seem to step out of the mist in the surrounding woods before glancing between the three and the trail of blood. Speaking with an altered voice through the mask.

"Remember to keep him awake. Six days after tonight...a task that may prove impossible with the blood loss. If he or either of you drift into sleep. Any supplies you collect up until that point will be taken from you for a day. Weapons...gear...materials...you will go a full day without them as a consequence for sleeping. You are being watched."

With that the man would fade back into the mist and back to Sero. Sero would watch a moment longer before turning to the man and glancing in the direction of the mountain...of the castle and the woman there. As if he could feel her presence even there. He would need to report this as he was using resources for training. Even if it wasn't a squad assigned to him. As he was a genin himself he couldn't take students anyway. This was just...field training. He would speak to the proctor once more.

"Send a missive with our location and whats transpired so far to Sayuri. Valen sought shelter but didn't establish any teamwork. Takano was prepared but doesn't ration supplies. He prepared traps but without communication the traps could have turned on his allies. A good solo survivalist. Could make a team lead. Blitz has sustained injuries day one and has not prepared or succeeded at a task since arriving. Should consider a harsher training session for him. Make him focused. These are my observations for day one. No casualties our side. Dozen pirate casualties. Will report again at the end of day two."

“Failure. Not surprising. Aren’t you tired of this yet? Blitz wake up..”

The voice of his father danced inside of his head as his eyes remained shut it seemed Burittsu was ready to pass on to the side of the dead as the words echoed bouncing off his very soul. He felt as if he was floating in a river gazing into a black sky tattered with shining stars that made it all seem real. Remaining motionless he could only feel the pain of where he was injured but his movements seemed restricted he felt paralyzed as the pain was the only thing that kept on ringing in his body. Floating in this river he was forced to look one direction from out of his view. A figure stood upon the rocks remaining out of sight and mind of the injured boy allowing him to float in place for Burittsu all was silent as the pain seemed to grow worse in mere seconds following the pain. His body began to slowly move down the river as a current began to slowly pick up his body and travel him along a path the feeling of his coldness seemed to be felt throughout his whole body. The feeling of being drained grew more and more as he felt weaker by the second all he could do was breathe. It seemed as face remained emotionless he could only think of the ways to greet the afterlife no one would truly miss him if he happened to die he had no family.

As his body continued to float he could only think of the things he would miss out on especially the people he failed so quickly it was the things of the world. He believed that the weak did in fact die no matter how much they tried and the strong themselves would soon follow the world was indeed cruel. Watching the stars shine from the great distance his body continued to flow slowly down the river the figure moved silently trailing from the shadows waiting and watching for its chance. Burittsu on the other hand continued to be carried down the river as the sounds of rushing water began to take over the silent land that caught the attention of the man yet his body remained motionless. The more he floated down the river the louder it grew. It was obvious at the end of the rushing water that his end was apparent all seemed too good to be true; his death only grew louder by the passing moments he could only prepare for fate. Another sound caught his attention yet his body remained unresponsive. It was clear as the time passed the rushing of the water was the only thing he was able to hear.

Gazing upon the stars he felt a strange grip around his chest as his body was quickly pulled out of the water only a few feet of being dragged; he was quickly dropped upon a shore filled with stones and pebbles. Remaining motionless he could only see the silhouette of a figure above him as it took a moment for his eyes to adjust before realizing for himself he was indeed dying the figure peered down upon him. Burittsu could only watch as he made out the facial features with his eyes he remained silent and motionless paralyzed but aware it was in fact a crazy appearance. A grin welcomed him onto shore, a familiar grin greeted and reminded him of himself as the figure grew closer it only brought more attention to the current situation; the figure appeared to be Burittsu himself. With a fierce grin from cheek to cheek he revealed his teeth in a huge smile gazing down upon the dying version of himself Burittsu gazed from the ground as the other gazed from the top.

“Aren’t you tired of being this failure of a thing.. Literally all you do is try and fail. Why don’t you just follow orders and behave for once.. You always seek for us to die and yet you smile like some lunatic at whoever you see fit.. Failure.. Listen it seems people want you to live who knows for what reason so do me a favour and stop quitting on yourself…”

Burittsu remained motionless as he watched the figure fix his posture once more standing straight up as he looked upon Burittsu and sighed before turning his back upon the male. Returning himself back into the shadows leaving the boy to think of what exactly just occurred in all seriousness it had seemed to be something that manifested into himself or was it just himself falling for the mind games his brain was playing on him. The only response he could give out was a trail of tears to the words that haunted his mind in mere moments upon his wounds was a burning heat that shocked the male. Enough to release his body from its entrapped state as he began to let out a faint cry from the shock the pain itself quickly carried along to each wound quickly waking him from his nightmarish slumber. Coughing and gasping for air as he was introduced to blurred images and a fuzzy mindset all he could do was breath focusing on his breath he could only keep his composure. As the tears ran down his face it had seemed running on the path towards death was a road for the strong; it pained him to realize that even the weak weren’t permitted entry.

“....”

Sayuri was sitting inside her ice castle, carefully shaping more tiny ice sculptures to add to her shrine when she heard the tell tale roar of Frederick outside. “Oh, play things!” Without any fear of who could possibly be outside, she jumped up and went to the front doors of the castle, swinging them wide as she peered out at the scene. Frederick, her ice forged, was slowly lumbering threateningly towards a single masked man. She held up a hand and moved out into the snow, Frederick took her silent command and paused in his approach leaving the lone stranger waiting. Walking up towards him Sayuri would circle him slowly, finally stopping once she was in front of him once more and raising a questioning eyebrow. Sayuri had never seen the Nightmare Brigade uniform before so she of course did not recognize the man on sight, her utter lack of survival instinct however did fortunately mean that she patiently waited for an explanation rather than simply attacking him.

With a stoic and steady voice, the masked man handed Sayuri a sealed letter. “From Lord Sero, your Highness.” Understanding dawned on the ice princess’s face as she took the letter from the man and peeled back the seal. She read the missive and then returned her gaze to the masked man, thoughtfully taking in his appearance. She was seriously considering taking his head off. The man hadn’t done anything wrong, nor was there any particular reason for her murderous thoughts - not a reason she could pin down. She simply enjoyed the thought of removing someone’s head and using it to decorate her castle. What stayed her hand was the thought that Sero would most likely take issue with one of his Brigade being decapitated unnecessarily. With a commanding voice, Sayuri ended the debate in her mind. “You may go.”

Once the man faded into the mist Sayuri gave Frederick a gentle pat and then headed back inside to prepare. She could have just absorbed the information Sero had provided her and gone about her business, but leaving things well enough alone was not exactly her style. Two of the people being tested on that island were hers and she had a vested interest in personally overseeing their progress. The third one she did not know, and she was intrigued.

‘My Queen, is it wise to engage in such a venture?’

‘Have you no sense of adventure Jareth? Of course it isn’t wise, but it does sound fun.’

‘I believe you and I have very different ideas of what constitutes fun.’

‘So it would seem. I know this will likely not dissuade you from warning me repeatedly, but I am in no danger. Sero is there, and two of those people are my students.’

‘You’re going to swim aren’t you?’

‘Of course, how else would you get to an island?’

‘By boat.’

‘Boats are boring. Unless they’re filled with people that need playing with.’

‘Agreed on at least one point, my Queen. Just please promise me that you’ll breathe this time?’

‘. . . breathe wa-’

‘NO.’

‘Of course, my King. I do so enjoy teasing you.’

‘I am well aware. It is my pleasure to provide you with entertainment.’

After securing her castle and leaving Frederick with additional instructions to not rip the arms off of those from the Nightmare Brigade, she made her way down the mountain. She knew the small island that Sero had directed her to, and she made haste in that direction. She could feel the disapproving look from Jareth inside her mind as she set one bare foot into the water, and the fact that he didn’t like it made it all the more enjoyable. Diving into the water she swam straight to the island. She was a surprisingly strong swimmer, not due to actual strength as by human standards she was on the weaker side, but by virtue of her endurance. What she lacked in strength she more than made up for in pure constitution. Where others might need to stop to catch their breath, she could continue unhindered.

Pulling herself out of the water, Sayuri would reform her crystalline gown with a wave of her hand. The long white dress only just covered her bare feet and offered little in terms of camouflage. “This simply won’t do, I want to make it at least a little difficult for anyone to see me. More fun that way.” Focusing on her Hyoton she chilled the air and snow began to fall lazily onto the island. In a short time a thin blanket of white snow would cover the entire island as she moved through it. While she had been given directions to the island she had not been given directions to the three genin. With her lack of knowledge regarding anyone’s location, she activated her Sensory and peered around looking for sources of chakra. Eventually after having to pause and focus the ability multiple times, she would see three chakra sources and make her way towards them. It could have been anyone really, but she knew two of those signatures quite well, so it seemed reasonable to assume that the third one was the person she hadn’t met yet. Singing softly to herself she walked along the rocky beach towards the assembled group, snow falling heavily now as she kept her eyes on her prey.

CP Usage:

The moment Valen's fiery weapon touched upon the first of the wounds the sizzling hiss of meat on the grill would sound around them and the distinctive smell of cooking pork would waft through the air. Blitz's eyes would open immediately and he would not say a work as Valen continued his grizzly work, moving through the process of closing the young mans wounds as quickly as he could. The fortunate news was that that was going to be rather quickly as he did not need to constantly reheat the blade in a fire. He merely had to change the location as his own chakra was stoking the fire to maintain it's heat through the work. As he worked Takano would arrive, dropping from the trees and snarling something at Blitz. Valen would simply continue to work, after all what he said had no bearing on what the young man should do did it? As he worked the red haired man would ask him if he had a place they could take him and nodded. "I secured us a cave, it had a bear in it. The bear is alive but I set it on fire. It'll probably be back later on but I can kill it then." He would say simply as continued.

Once that was said a figure would arrive, reminding them that for the next six days they could not sleep and if they did not manage to stay awake any supplies they might have gained would be taken from them for the next day. Before the man could leave Valen would pose a question, his quiet voice cutting through the now quite air. "If one of our teammates is unable to continue, are we able to surrender on their behalf? Say Blitz loses consciousness and can't be resuscitated without a hospital. Or say someone loses their arms?" He would ask simply, finishing up his grisly work before moving to pick his conscious teammate up and throw him over his shoulder, carrying him like a sack of potatoes. Despite the short frame of the black haired swordsman, he had more than enough strength to carry Blitz. "This way." He would say simply before moving toward his cave. It would take them a bit of time to get there. However he would find something he had not expected along the travel path toward the cave.

Snow

The small, fluffy, white flakes fell from the sky and Valen looked up into the sky with a mild sense of wonder. It wasn't often he had ever seen snow. Having spent much of his time growing up beneath the deck of a ship. It did not stop him from taking Blitz, and leading Takano of course, toward their temporary home though. As he moved though, enjoying the feeling of the snow falling upon him he would hear a voice not far ahead. It was almost ethereal in quality as the sound moved through the snow and it wasn't long before Valen came face to face with a woman of a height with him and actually an inch or so taller. She had long blonde hair, blue eyes, and a dress that was seemingly made from the very snow that was falling around him. She was singing and as he lay eyes upon her the fire swordsman would smile softly as he stopped before her. "My Queen." He would say in greeting, giving her a bow of the head. He could do little else given Blitz on his shoulders. Otherwise he would have knelt. However he was short enough that if he had he might have bonked Blitz's head on the ground. He was tempted to do it anyway but refrained. Unless ordered of course, he would obey her without question.

"What brings you out here my Queen? Do you have need of me?" He would ask, his head tilting to the side in curiosity as he spoke to the woman before him. Memories of their first meeting flashing through his head. Them sitting side by side on the beach as they spoke. Them being carried by his ice construct to her castle after she marked him as hers. Her writhing upon her table as he used alcohol to light her afire to bring her the pain she so craved. As well as other more carnal images. He did not expect her arrival would be to make their lives easier for the next week. In fact he expected the exact opposite but that did not bother him. It would simply be another challenge to meet and overcome. Another competition to aim for victory in. Should she ask him of it he would inform her of their destination. Being that of the cave he had discovered not too far away from this location. As well as why as he  nodded his head toward Blitz. He had little doubt she knew why they were out here. She was on of the spiders of the Nightmare Brigade after all and that meant she was one of Sero's lieutenants within the Brigade, while also being his superior outside of it. No, she would know the purpose of their trip here. The question was why she had come to join them.

(3)

Takano allowed himself a grunt of satisfaction as Blitz’s eyes opened, though his hands did not slow down in the least in their work. “Stay awake Blitz, if you fall asleep that’s when things get hairy.” The Uzumaki ordered in a voice that brooked no argument. Sleep was a luxury that they could simply not afford Blitz in this scenario: they needed him awake and conscious to avoid him succumbing to his injuries, as well as avoiding whatever punishments Sero had in store for one of their number if they indeed fell asleep. He only wished he had some painkillers on hand: having one’s wounds cauterized by a blazing-hot sword could not be very pleasant.

Valen’s answer was not what Takano had expected, but the thought of having a defensible shelter was too tempting to ignore. Takano nodded, “Sounds like a defensible location at least, despite its occupant. I can reinforce it with a barrier once we have the area secured. Plus, the free couple of meals wouldn’t hurt.” The bear itself, assuming they could slay it without injury, was a veritable gold mine of food and furs that they would need if they wanted to survive the next week. Especially since they had one man down barely a few hours into the test.

Takano’s thoughts were only reinforced a few minutes later, when a man wearing the garb of the Nightmare Brigade stepped out of the mist, reminding them of the rules of the test. The Uzumaki opened his mouth to ask the obvious question, Valen preempted him, asking about forfeiting in place of one another. Pleasantly surprised at his teammate's insight, Takano would wait eagerly for the answer, completing his bandaging and wound cleansing.

The Uzumaki would quietly follow behind his teammate, a kunai in his left hand and constantly peering out at the mist surrounding them, searching for any sign of threat. Then, despite the fact that they were on a relatively temperate island, it began to snow. The flakes were sparse at first, but quickly began to blanket the area, reducing visibility even more. Takano sighed, “Wonderful. Just what we needed.” He muttered, his voice full of sarcasm.

It was the singing he heard first, a soft lullaby barely audible over the sound of snow crunching beneath their boots. “Valen.” He said in warning, flipping his kunai into his right hand and preparing to throw. Thankfully, Takano’s brain caught up with his instincts just in time, recognizing Sayuri of the Triumverate just before hurtling a kunai at one of the leaders of the village. Takano reddened slightly, instead kneeling and inclining his head. “Madam Kage.” He would say simply, no trace of emotion in his voice.

Sero would glance over the three from a distance before his cold blue eyes would shift upwards. Noting the snowfall that had begun across the island. He had sent the report just a bit ago but it seemed her curiosity would be peaked. So she had come here. It wasn't surprising but that meant that whole new level of danger had come. Pirates he could handle if he needed to. However Sayuri in all her power and rumors of her madness was not something he was prepared to confront. Not out of inferior power necessarily.... more because she was the one person he considered a friend. To him she was the little girl in the woods who had given him aid. When he stumbled and could barely keep going she had given him nourishment. Yet he had opened a new path to that innocent little girl. No one saw her as such anymore. They knew nationwide that she was to be feared and respected. And he supported her directly. He did not care for any of the other leadership. She was his queen and a queen had no equals. He had no desire to fight with her on any grounds. Besides that she had promised him she wouldn't do anything that would reflect poorly upon him.

So he would follow them as they carried the weak and injured Burittsu to their shelter. A cave Valen had said he chased a bear from. It was a shame he hadn't managed to kill it but it seemed like he had done some considerable damage to it. Still that meant they lacked food. It had only been a little less than twenty four hours since they arrived but by the time they arrived at the cave...based on how they exerted themselves in battle and in carrying their injured...likely they would have developed a hunger and a thirst. The snow however would have a benefit for them if they came upon meat or fish. Allowing them to freeze their food to preserve it and have hidden rations. Yet Sero would mention none of it. Instead he would simply follow and observe from a distance. He had no sensory ability but he could see them well enough. Still a cloaked figure would drop next to him. Whispering to him quietly before bowing and fading back into the snow. He was correct. She had arrived on the island.

Still this worked in his favor. He needed to punish them as Buri had lost consciousness. Even if just for a little bit due to blood loss he had fallen asleep. There were consequences to consider and one of which he was certain would amuse his queen. He would glance to the side as singing became more clear. Even at a steady pace his men could barely stay ahead of her. Her sheer constitution keeping her from having to rest or pace herself. He would wait until the three had greeted her before stepping forward. All three would recognize the sensation as he emerged through the blanket of snow. Not a single flake remaining on his person as it melted on contact and nourished him instead. Some feared the winter and its harsh environment. Sero thrived upon it. Much like that little flake of ice she had fed him when they first met. Yet the shadows would seem to stretch out and the snow would swirl around them. The sensation of terror filling the air as the beast emerged. They knew he was there but for him to be so close...the pressure of his presence left that gap between them. Those cold blue eyes regarded each of them but he would bow to his queen first. Before rising and speaking to them all.

"My queen is here because she holds invested interest in some of you. Prove yourselves here and you may even be considered for promotion quicker than most. However Blitz did break the rules however briefly. I will only stay a moment as I wish for her to speak freely with you three as she sees fit. As for your question....no. You can not opt out one of your teammates if they become unable to surrender. You must stabilize them so they can do so themselves. His injuries are no longer life threatening so he will not be forced from the island yet. As for your punishment, tonight when the sun sets there will be a challenge provided for you. Given Sayuri's compliance this will be difficult for you. Prepare to do battle with two constructs of two different types of chakra between myself and Sayuri. When the sun sets your limits will be tested. However since he is being punished...he will be allowed to rest until the sun sets if he needs it under the same punishment. Do you need me for anything my queen?"

From down below Burittsu could only make out figures with his vision coming in and out he could barely see the details of anyone's face the voices matched their respected figures. At least until an unfamiliar voice made its presence warning them of all of the rules which he knew it was his burden to deal with. The confusion was only an added note following the orders and flesh burning from both of these two shinobi in front of him at this point it seemed to Burittsu they were more than shinobi. In a fierce clench of his teeth in response to the heat being placed upon his skin such methods were only needed due to his stupidity he knew all too well that deep down he was the one slowing down the group with his mistakes. For once he had nothing to say the expression upon his face as he remained silent bearing and dealing with each painful movement that was being used to save his life. In moments time as they finished nick picking at his injuries and his pride he remained quiet as he was then picked up and placed upon Valens shoulder. From his point of view he was falling off into a different path. Something inside of him felt different but this was his only time to regain some type of strength in time the land itself was starting to see change. Above them the angels cried out sending snow down upon the earth covering the land of the island adding an atmosphere that felt most beneficial to Burittsu himself as he basked in the sensation.

The peace didn’t last as quickly as the doctor's patience with the blanket of snow. It had seemed he didn’t take pleasure in letting the unknown step in and having its way with people but obviously there was always a reason for things. His vision returned to his side once more allowing him to see the world once again as he was introduced to the singing of a tone he had not heard in a long time. As the cold began to set in, the nature of the land changed drastically now with a sea of white thick snow upon the dirty floor in moments Burittsu’s attention would be drawn to the ground as Valen came to a stop. Hearing Valen speak as the group in fact did grow closer to the singing then he’d like but he could only continue to rest momentarily upon the shoulders of the shinobi. The words relate to a figure of power, someone who would stand tall and place fear into the hearts of whom she wants and that led to him only believing it was the woman who started him down this path. With no word he would watch from the corner of his eye as the doctor himself bowed to the powerful woman that seemed to be on the island with her own personal motives.

Before he could do anything another presence seemed to make its way near the group. Another familiar being now stood beside the rest of the group and the voice from itself was also that familiar to his ears. He could only hear the explanation that Sero provided for why the woman was here on that day and the results of Burittsu falling asleep. A battle must be held and his next fight was against something he didn’t fully have control over. The very thought of him keeping up in battle with such things would only add more fuel to his fire. It had seemed all was ready as the time drew closer. Burittsu hadn't touched the floor for quite some time and with this new arrival of the lady it was only rude for him to be the only one who didn’t say something or bow in her presence. Rolling off his shoulders Burittsu found himself falling off the Valens shoulder and his next stop was the earth floor with the blood loss he sustained Burittsu could only brace himself for the impact. Falling on the earth floor Burittsu ended up sore but with the use of his legs to absorb most of the pressure he surely felt the pain in each wound he sustained especially around his main organs after he failed to keep himself in check from earlier. Turning around on the ground floor till he was met face to face once again with the woman he made sure to keep his head low and he remained silent through the process. The silence was different, especially from him but it was simply him learning from his own burden his body was suffering from the mistakes and risk he took but it was only clear he made it through due to the work of the other two.


“I accept the punishment as is…. Resting isn’t an option…On the other hand these two allowed me to remain on the island and in life.. No rest for me, apologies for crushing any hopes my lady..”

Sayuri’s song carried easily through the now snowy air, a haunting lullaby that told of the inevitability and terror that came with being hunted. She had been searching for a while wandering through the snow and was rewarded with the visage of three men making their way in her direction. She recognized two of them immediately and her face lit up with a smile as they spoke to her. Her singing only stopped once she finished the last few steps up to the group, placing herself mere inches away from Valen with Burittsu on his shoulder. Moving her left hand slowly she would gently press her fingers onto the left side of Valen’s jaw and held his gaze for a moment. “I always need you, my Ember Knight.” She did not elaborate as her attention wandered to the other two men. She could see that Blitz was injured and her eyes darkened, quite literally as she felt Sero’s presence behind the three men and her pupils dilated with the increased adrenaline and endorphins that now pumped through her veins. Before Sero seemed to materialize from the mist and snow, she would raise her hand from Valen’s jaw and attempt to set it briefly on the top of Blitz’s head. It was intended as a comforting and protective gesture and should he allow it she would rest it there and speak soothingly to him. “What happened to you, my dear Blitz?”

She allowed him time to answer, however also gave Takano a nod of acknowledgement. She did not know the red haired man personally, though she assumed that he was from Kiri based on his current proximity to Valen and Blitz. Sero’s entrance was thrilling and Sayuri felt goosebumps along her flesh as his aura of fear swept over her. It was always the most exciting experience, standing this close to him. Some part of her felt terrified and certain that a terrible monster was stalking her and was set to devour her at any moment. The feeling was addictive and although the smarter, quieter part of her mind urged her to flee, the impulsive part of her fought to stay where she was. The internal struggle brought her joy and that joy was reflected on her face as she stared up at the leader of the Nightmare Brigade.

She moved back a pace from the three Genin, allowing Sero time to deliver his instructions and punishments. When he asked if she needed him for anything, she would move to face him and smile up at her friend. “You are the Harbinger of Justice, the Malefic Shadow, my Dread Knight and my friend. I always need you. You represent what is worth living and dying for in this desolate world. Though presently I do not require your assistance, I will attend to these three and meet you later for their. . . punishment.” She would extend a hand as she spoke, tentatively reaching to place her fingers against his arm. This was a gesture she had extended to him before, a symbol of friendship and trust and one she hoped he remembered. She heard Blitz’s insistence that he didn’t require rest, but she could see that not only had he been injured and lost blood, he had also clearly had the wound cauterized which would only double his injury. And while she could appreciate his willingness to endure pain, celebrate it even, it was never any fun to torment people who may not be able to withstand it.

Assuming Sero accepted her dismissal she would wait until he had gone and return to the gathered men, a kind smile on her face as she addressed them all. “Now then, it seems the three of you are in quite the predicament. So many rules to follow and the punishment for breaking them seems quite severe.” Sayuri would kneel on the ground in front of Burittsu and look over his injuries, a soft ‘tsk’ noise sounding as she shook her head gently. “Blitz, if you refuse to rest then I will have to fix you, you will not be able to properly enjoy your punishment otherwise. Do not fret, your Queen is here to aid you.” Without waiting for a response, Sayuri would channel her Hyoton chakra into her mouth, a deadly sharp set of fangs growing as her eyes frosted over. The air around her chilled further as she raised her left forearm to her mouth and sunk her newly created fangs, the Mark of the Ice Queen, into her pale flesh. She had another technique that was similar, Winter’s Kiss, however she knew it would not pierce her skin and instead opted for the stronger technique. As soon as the razor sharp ice fangs sliced into her arm she let out a nigh imperceptible sigh of happiness, the pain was delicious and were she not concerned for the well being of one of her students she would have continued to drain her own blood for as long as possible. Likely, until Jareth stopped her.

Her ruby blood spilled down her arm and dripped from her elbow onto the freshly fallen snow, the sanguine liquid a stark contrast to the blanket of white it spread through. Using every ounce of self control she had, she would remove her fangs from her arm and using her left hand weave the fresh blood with more Hyoton and create something that looked very similar to a small candied cube. Holding the cube in the palm of her right hand she would extend the gift towards Burittsu, her words encouraging as she looked expectantly at him. “For you, Blitz. Eat this and you shall be completely healed, then you may face tonight’s challenges at full strength.” If he refused or hesitated she would be more insistent. “I have never seen you fight, and I wish to. Believe me when I assure you that tonight I will not go easy on you, injured or no. And I fully expect that Sero will not either.”

Jutsu Trained:

As he spoke to his Queen, Buri would decide to take his form of travel into his own hands and roll off the shoulder of the red eyed swordsman. Still, Valen barely paid attention as he leaned into the touch of the blonde hair, blue eyed woman before him. "And I you, my Queen." He would say quietly. Her use of the title 'Ember Knight' pleased him greatly and told him that they were to act with her in lead. It had ended up being a sort of changing cycle where she would refer to him as her 'knight' in public and her 'lord' in private. He relished the thought of her calling him lord again as it meant all sorts of things were able and wanted to be done. But for now this was not the time for such things as they were quite busy. Either way once she had spoken to him, he would remain silent, simply nodding at her words as she began to look to the others. The snow that fell to the ground had yet to begin to form piles as of yet but that would not remain the case for much longer. They did have some time before they needed to get to the cave though and so the diminutive genin would be quiet and unobtrusive as he waited for the opportunity to move.

Sero would arrive eventually as Sayuri was checking over Buri's wounds and give them their punishment. The dark haired genin simply nodded at the instructions. Buri was able to rest of necessary, Takano and Valen were not. Simple enough, Valen could either sit still and let his body regain chakra naturally. Or he could go fish for them all in the river the bear had run toward. Perhaps he could even find that bear again and kill it. If he did that they would have enough meat for the week that would even stay fresh with the cold coming in due to Sayuri's presence. Of course that entirely depended on how long she would be sticking around upon the island. As one of the three leaders of the village he would not be surprised if she had to leave somewhat soon to take care of other matters. At the same time though, she did tend to do what she wanted when it came to her time so perhaps she would decide to join them for the rest of the time. Only father time could tell now, well, and Sayuri.

As he stood by and watched, he would see his queen form fangs of ice upon her teeth and a small smile would form upon his lips at the sight of them. It brought back the scene from a couple of days prior where she had formed similar fangs to mark him as hers. The fang scar was still upon him, just below the neck and able to be easily hidden from his uniform. His mind played back the events of that day and he actually had some trouble keeping himself in check as she used the fangs to rip open her own skin and utilized her blood to form some kind of small red cube. She then told Buri to eat it, and went so far as to insist. It was the insistence that did it for Valen, and when she made the statement that she wished to see Buri fight the red eyed man's gaze would turn to Buri as if two cannons had been aimed at him. Now that his Queen had willed it, the blue haired genin would be eating that cube, one way or another. However he would wait, give Buri the chance to accept the cube willingly so that he could show his stuff to her. If he denied her however, Valen would move to simply try hold down the injured man, using his strength in his shoulders to try to press down upon him, holding him in place so that he could be forced to take the offered gift. Of course nothing of the such would happen if Buri simply accepted the gift. After all, intervention would not be required then. "Take it Buri, do not spurn the gift of my Queen lightly." He would say quietly, trying to give the boy a warning of what might happen if he did. Valen would simply hold him down and make him take it. Sayuri? She might do something more drastic, that would leave the man in exactly the state she wanted him to be in whether he liked it or not.

[4]

Sero would bow his head as his queen spoke of him highly. He would only bow to her and no others. Not even the other two in power. He did report as needed but he always reported to her first. To him Sayuri was all that was needed for the country. She was harsh and violent but fair. He had little to no knowledge of her insanity or the slights against his ideals. Nor did he wish to know for if he did...he first friend...his queen would become his enemy for murder against innocents. He chose not to see it and being as there was no proof being brought against her he saw her in a light that was but an illusion he had come to believe. Some say you see what you want to see in this world and in this case it was true. So he would turn and leave once he was excused. Leaving the three of them in her care and heading towards the beach. There were two things he needed to learn. To try...to put into practice and grow his power and perhaps even....find a way to combine it for an even greater power. The mysterious scroll with bone caps had been left to him as head of the Kaguya and another clan technique for the hozuki.

As Takano seemed to be deep in thought and focusing on regaining chakra he would let his silence be. The focus here was healing Blitz and preparing them for the challenge to come. Nightfall would mark the beginning and it was when Sero would return. For now his aura faded from the group and they could breathe again. His pale form faded into the mist and walked straight for the beach where the had arrived. He could feel the beast within him stir as if eager to witness this. It still didn't agree with being within Sero but it understood its survival and his own were partially linked. Its freedom taken but it still got to see the world through his eyes and observe his dedication to his work. If nothing else Sero was a harbinger and as such he would not falter easily. So it would watch and decide if it could eventually accept him after all. Biding its time and observing. But for this it would lend its power. Its chakra flowing into Sero. This Sero would feel and give him pause at the waters edge. He would hold up his hand and tilt his head to look at it. He could feel it there. The bijuus chakra flowing into him. How interesting that it would choose now to lend its power when it had only done so once before during a battle in Kumo.

Still he would pull out from his chest the bone scroll. Holding it out before him as it unraveled and he would read its contents over again. His eyes scanning it before taking it all in and under consideration. He would start with this and then move onto the next technique. He would take a breath before forming hand seals in slow succession and gathering the Bijuus chakra for this. Rat, Snake, Bird. As if emerging from the ground around him a massive skeleton would begin to rise around him. The whole beach would shake A sixty meter tall skeleton rising from the ground around Sero and surrounding him. Guarding him as it towered over the trees on the island. Snow falling around him. However Sero was not done. He would instead step forward as the skeleton moved with him. Placing his bare feet within the water from the abundance surrounding the island. The water would attach itself to even more of the Bijuus chakra as it would begin to swirl towards him and build up. Filling in the space around Sero and within the skeleton with the raging water around him. Lowering the tide from the surrounding islands as its massive sixty meter tall form would fill in the skeleton. They had combined to his will and now..now the skeleton would lift its liquid hand before a test of strength was needed. So he would turn to the island as the power surged within him. Raising the massive hand before the combined jutsu with its strength at S+ would slam down into the beach and a huge explosion of sand would rush out. Trees would bow and crack. Falling before the massive blow as a rumble rushed through the entire island. The training was a success.

Training 650/650:

As it appeared everyone seemed to be on the edge from the woman who always seemed eager to please Burittsu; she indeed gave everyone a different type of feeling as one seemed to pressure the man into eating what was made for him in mere seconds. Fate seemed for the best he was always being rescued by this woman to the point he wouldn’t even have the nerve to refuse her offers. Time after time it seemed she was the one to always guide him on the path. Whenever he seemed to slip off she enjoyed his company it seemed but it did amuse him to know that another also had his attention. Reaching out slowly in front of him meeting with the request of the woman and that of Valen he took the cube in hand and without a moment of hesitation his lips met with the cube. It seemed all too familiar with the woman once more appearing before him to apply the bandage on the wounds he was physically inflicted and somehow her presence allowed his emotional state to remain in a calm trance. In fact he could only feel the pressure of the burden that he carried from her grow heavier to the point the weight of failing her climaxed over the need to prove himself. Remaining motionless he took his time not knowing how long it would take for anything to kick in but in due to time he felt his body begin to slowly recognize the cube.

“Valen I trust her with my life, she is the one who found me afterall..”

In a second after finishing these lines the stomach that Burittsu held earlier from the damage inflicted as the patch up job done by the team all seemed to vanish rather quickly each leaving behind a scar. A fresh one indeed but the wounds themselves were repaired as if nothing occurred as if death never existed it made it all seem worthless with such a power under her control death was far from reach as long as she see’d to heal her comrades. Before standing upon his own feet he gave his head one more tilt to the earth before that very earth began to shake violently underneath his body. At first he thought this was his body reacting to the cube but as seconds passed and the island slowly stopped its tremor it was clear another was upon the island with such tremendous power. It only made sense that it was the man with the beast like mentality, a monster free to run around as he pleased, only brought positive ideas to the mind of Burittsu. As the rumble subsided Burittsu stood quickly upon his feet with the body of his now returned and his strength returned he could only see what the mirror copy of himself was now talking about so much power around him and he was willing to throw it all down the drain. From Valen to the doctor himself each had their own respective skill which only led to him believing he hasn’t reached his potential yet to even earning such a skill under his belt to blast away or heal. Gazing at the woman once more before staring towards the ground gazing upon her feet that blessed the floor he had been a fool since the start reframing himself from her was the mistake he had never seen coming.

The princess was on a level which he desired but he always seemed to fall short. Meeting her too many times was something he could not pass the offer up indeed she probably had more that caught her attention. As for now her attention was fixed upon the current group and he just happened to be in that group in a mere second his eyes began to climb back up her body as he studied her a smile upon his face slowly emerged once more before stopping at her own eyes a silence fixed between the two as Burittsu glanced over towards Valen. His smile died for a mere second as he realized his allies were also his opponents when it came to the favoritism of the princess. Each of them wanted to gain power; this only meant the competition between each would grow. Hopefully they would get along during the whole process as the days were just starting.

“Valen! I thank you from the bottom of my heart I owe a life debt.. I'm sorry for the trouble that I'm bringing you all so early.. But actions speak louder than words so watch me. Princess you on the other hand have a lot of admirers. I shall do my best to meet the expectations you see in me and surpass them even further. I once and for always will be in your debt.. Thank you. May I ask one favor, will you teach me.. Ninjutsu..”

Burittsu backed up once more, bowing once more as the snow continued to dance around the land he felt the pleasure of his body and how it felt intact once more he could cry if he wasn’t in front of his new comrades. It seemed he was more eager then he was led to believe himself coming out and talking clearly wasn’t in his vocabulary something indeed felt off, probably the encounter of death being so real. Or was he simply tired of failing the people who entrusted him to do great things for the village but it had seemed he was always getting pushed to do his best for his own sake. With his body at hundred percent once more it seemed best to train at moment instead of rest he had to put in work to prove he was indeed worthy of the headband that was passed down unto him the pride and strength of the princess something he would never lose sight of as long as he remained breathing. The headband itself dangled around his neck as he bowed before the two he would remain as such without a hesitation awaiting a proper answer. Sheer determination seemed to be driving him farther than he had anticipated. Hopefully he didn’t jest any rudeness afterall she did injure herself to bring his body back from the grip of death. Thinking about how she even had the idea of such a technique only made it top priority for him to study and learn under her wing under his breath it had seemed he couldn’t even contain his words.

“Incredible…”

Sayuri was pleased with Burittsu’s willingness to accept her gift. It hadn’t occurred to her until the moment that he spoke that his loyalty went deeper than just that of a soldier or student. It seemed that the number of people she had that trusted her that deeply was growing quickly. She could, of course, do nothing with this. But she understood the value of such a relationship and how cultivating that bond would go a long way towards seeing her goals accomplished. As Blitz stood and bowed, she noted the appreciative studying he gave her and she returned his gaze with a welcoming smile. She would move up to him and attempt to place a hand on Burittsu’s cheek, looking into his eyes as she answered his request.

“Of course, Blitz. I will teach you whatever you ask, be it Shinobi skills or anything else you may desire. You need only ask and your wish is my command. I need you Blitz, and anything I can do to assist you will be my pleasure.”

If she had been successful in touching Burittsu, she would linger there for a few seconds gazing into his eyes before turning to the other two. As she turned to face them she spied the tell tale dark shape of a cave mouth nearby, and made the assumption that that was the location in which the group was heading. She had lived for quite some time in a cave with Sero and Azrael and she could recognize the defensibility of such a location. Moving towards Valen and Takano, she would attempt to place a possessive hand on Valen’s shoulder and gesture in the direction of the cave she had spotted.

“That might be a suitable location to rest and come up with a strategy for survival. Which I can assure you all, you will need. I haven’t had the opportunity to wreak havoc in some time, and am looking forward to seeing how each of you deals with the coming days and nights. Although, a fire may be in order, since one of you doesn’t appear to have anything to combat the cold.”

She meant Takano of course, Burittsu was a Yuki and so just like her, the cold didn’t bother him. Likewise, Sero and Valen had their own ways of keeping their core temperature higher than most. Takano though had not seemed to enjoy the prospect of snow, and while she thought it was amusing that one of them might freeze to death, she didn’t want to be responsible for that. Especially not where Sero was involved. She intended to keep her promise to him; she would do nothing that would reflect poorly on him. That also meant anticipating where things might look reprehensible that he may not recognize. He seemed to be acclimatizing quickly to the social etiquette of the outside world, but she found she occasionally had to step in. Or rather, Jareth had to. Sayuri couldn’t have given two flying fucks about etiquette, even though she was well versed, she was all impulse and fury and joy. Jareth on the other hand knew well enough how to keep his vessels alive, despite their inability or unwillingness to do so for themselves.

Notes:

When Buri took the cube of solidified blood from her and took it. He would watch as the man's wounds began to heal immediately. The cauterized skin Valen himself had caused within his quickie fix to the bleeding turning into unblemished skin once more. The smaller swordsman would listen to Buri's words to him, speaking of how he trusted her with his life. Something about how she had 'found' him. Sero himself would have disappeared, off to go do Sero things which could include something like watching them all from the shadows. Or cutting off the heads of various evil villains and sticking them on spikes for the rest of evil to witness. Valen wasn't sure which end of the spectrum he would choose this time around but it did not really matter to the young man. Sero had already told them that they would have to fight some sort of golems tonight as punishment for Buri's inability to remain conscious. Still, he would be thankful for the challenge and the ability to push himself. Thus far he had only been met with a bear that he had quickly removed in with a simple fire technique. So the idea of a golem or two to fight that was being ordered by Sayuri and Sero was a prospect he was actually looking forward to. At this point Valen would feel a tremor through the ground beneath him and looking down at the end he would wonder briefly at what he could be. He had never seen or heard of sinkholes and so had no concept of such things. That would be irrelevant however as it was not a sink hole that was causing the tremor. It was actually Sero, off training techniques. Valen could not be away of that however and so when the tremor passed he would continue as he was. Which was standing there looking like a lump at the moment.

Buri would begin a slow eyeing of Sayuri and Valen would simply wait, not minding in the least as he did so and smiled at her. He was hers too after all and besides. Valen was a slave, slaves were never permitted jealousy. A concept that Valen himself wasn't even aware of. Buri eventually stood and thanked Valen for his efforts, prompting a nod from the shorter male. Then Buri would move to speak to Sayuri, commenting on her admirers, and how he would do his best to meet and surpass any expectations of her. Before asking her to teach him the arts of Ninjutsu. Sayuri for her part would move to him, placing a hand upon his cheek and meeting his eyes before speaking. Telling him that she would of course teach him, that anything he asked of her she would teach him. Shinobi related or not. She would hold the gaze for a few moments before turning toward Valen and an oddly quiet Takano.

Moving toward them, she would place a hand upon Valen's shoulder and Valen's hand would move to rest upon hers. With a gesture she would note the cave in the distance as he himself noted her. She was pale, paler than normal, and not in a good way. Valen had seen it on ships in his life and he noted the blood still dripping from her arm. His eyes narrowed in recognition as he turned toward Buri, his mind putting things together. Slowly perhaps, but he did get there. As she commented on the defensibility of the cave and how she had not gotten the chance to truly let loose. He would also hear a slight difference in the tone and cadence in her voice at the end but he would not bother to try to pin it down. He would however reach for the wrist she had bitten open. Should he manage to grasp it, over the still bleeding wound. He would channel fire chakra into it, causing the wound to hopefully sear shut. The first time he had tried to burn her with his fire chakra he had been too weak and needed a starter. Alcohol had been his go to. However he was a fair bit stronger chakra wise now. So perhaps he could do something for this. As he did this he would speak. "My Queen, your wound, the jutsu, combined they are affecting you. It needs to be closed.." He would say, as he attempted to do so. The purpose of this was obvious, if he could not succeed with his fire. She would need to do so with her medical techniques.

Once that was done he would move to pick her up into his arms. If successful, he would carry her bridal style toward the cave. If not successful he would simply follow her toward it. Should he be successful however he would place a kiss upon her head. Intimate, yet modest at the same time. Hopefully fulfilling the conditions for their relationship. Which was that when she referred to him as her 'knight' he was to be subservient. When they arrived at the cave he would set her down, before moving back outside and getting some wood together quickly for a fire. There was plenty around and he had a sword that he could utilize. Within a minute or so he returned with firewood and set a fire in the cave for them to remain warm before sitting down against the wall in the back of it. The position of the cave itself was defensible and keeping ones back to a wall was a good practice for ones survivability in a world.

When he sat down he would let his mind wander a bit, letting himself meditate to regain chakra without resting. His red eyes would find their way to Sayuri and remain on her as he let his mind wander a bit. The fire caused the cave to warm up well and the smoke went right out of the cave entrance. The warmth of it would reflect back from the back of the cave which had been run mostly smooth by his earlier fire technique against the bear. Ensuring there were no pesky stone spikes and jutting rocks to pierce ones back upon when leaning against it. After a bit he would blink himself back to reality, his gaze still upon his Queen before speaking. "My Queen, what can you tell us of the constructs we will be fighting soon?" He would ask, his voice calm and quiet. He wasn't afraid, had never actually been afraid. His upbringing had beaten that out of him at an extremely early age and now he simply functioned as necessary.

[5]

Sero floated within his two defensive constructs as the bone fist covered in liquid would raise from the crater in the ground. A massive crater had formed there and if not for his liquid form drinking in the river it would have already become a small inlet into the island. Sero would have the massive hand raise as he inspected it. The size of a small building and with the power to prove it. Moving as he normally would. Yet he wasn't sure how much it could sustain. Yet there was something else there. Another power he could sense fueling it within him. This chakra was not his own but that inner power he had used once in Kumo. As if something else within him wished for him to learn this power. To have him grow in strength. He would take a breath before releasing both jutsu at once. The bones would crumble away like dust in the wind but the water would return to where it came from. Flooding the beach and the crate with the sudden reduction in size. Sero himself would lower with the falling tide as if he were simply standing upon it and when the water finally receded into the now rushing waters Sero stood next to the crater. Appearing to be dry.

Sero could feel it. Stirring within him but holding for now. Pressing and testing against....that seal. He needed Sayuri to look at it eventually. For now he would lower his hand and seem to reach through his clothing to touch the seal itself. Holding his fingers there while he focused on it. Focused within it for a moment before he closed his eyes. When he opened them again he was in a dark place. A cave with no light streaming in other than some dim green torches spotted around the walls. In order to See Sero would focus katon chakra into his right hand and let green flames illuminate the room. Blood was in a thick layer along the floor as water might a flooded room. His blue eyes lifted to the large cylinder bird cage in the center suspended from the unseen ceiling. Within the massive cage steam emerged as blue eyes seemed to glow and meet his own. There was rage there. Anger at being held captive. Sero would look upon those eyes unamused as he contemplated what this meant. Before the creature would scoff at him as if offended at this.

"You are far from ready tormented one. You may not be human but you still are mortal and thus no comparison to me. I lend you my power when I wish it for now...but do not presume to own me. Be gone for now until you learn my name."

With that the blood pool would swirl around Sero and the green flames would go out including the one in his hand. He would shield his face with an arm against the blood spray heading for his eyes. When he lowered his arm he was back on the beach. Alone. The skeleton had finished crumbling to dust and the river had seemingly returned to normal. So time passed when he was within his mind....speaking with the creature. That was good to know. For now he was aware of the day passing. He would turn his attention to the island as one of the brigade proctors would land next to him. Blue eyes would regard him as he reported the presence in the cave. No others had intruded on the island so far. Which suited Sero fine but that pirate had best either come back or flee the country. He would nod and the proctor would fade back to his duties. By now snow had built up across the island and it was beginning to look a lot more like her mountain top. He would take a breath and continue towards the cave. To check on these soldiers.

Her gaze itself was something to behold as Burittsu dared to keep eye contact with her as  being this close to his leader again only brought back memories of her dragging him around the same hands that blessed him with a new life and purpose. Of course he allowed the woman to have her way when she came around and offered her support with such kindness. It was a fact she cared for her people. The help wasn’t requested but she answered in her own way and style to boast as she ventured off towards the others Burittsu could only think about the other version of himself he saw deep down within him. Adjusting his body upright as he watched the valiant leader guide them towards shelter she saw herself the goal was to inform but she also seemed to want to join in on the battlefield. Following from the back Burittsu continued to watch the group closely from the silence of the doctor to the leader and Valen the only one that seemed to be missing was the man in black. This seemed a bit much for someone to process as he was just opened up by rock like projectiles from that point on the outside world was black but mentally he was talking to himself.

Watching closely as the group made their way up the hill and towards the cave one by one they all went inside except for Valen it had seemed he went to handle some of the tasks that needed to be done in order for the group to remain stable. Fixing himself a spot against the wall as he placed his katana upon the wall next to him he felt comfortable. The cave itself was a good spot for a meeting of minds. Indeed there were many questions but as they sat in darkness for a while he remained to himself silent as usual but he could only think of the request he asked earlier. It was something he thought about but he wanted to learn more about the clan he originated from thinking back how he was in the cold earlier without feeling a thing it had seemed he was one with nature.

The silence was broken as Valen returned with supplies to bring heat to the cave as he set up the embers and watched it burn he realized the reason why he was comfortable the wall itself appeared evened out. Smooth on the surface all around as the fire lit the details clearly to Burittsu it was probably from the fire maker himself but who's to say what went down exactly in the cave. For himself he was most likely out and about in the forest at the time he did go out and look for shelter before anyone else so this probably was his way of protecting the group his attention was everywhere. But soon it all fell down upon the two in front his eyes focused as the words flew out his mouth, a simple question that would definitely be replied with a simple answer if she chose to do so.


Diving back into his mind he could only think about the abilities he lacked and those he could learn from the woman, maybe even cultivate his own form of skills and grow into an exceptional shinobi. All seemed simple for a second as the thoughts of what the clan actually meant to the woman and himself and if there were others like himself out in the world or in the village to learn and study under. Such a thing to wonder but it was all that at the end of the day just another thought in his head finally giving a sigh he decided to speak out a little towards the two as his statement would be directed at the leader herself.

“I would simply like to know more about the clan and its skills afterwards..”

Sayuri allowed Valen to pick her up, she much preferred that to walking anyway. When he lifted her from where she stood her head swam with the dizziness that accompanies low blood pressure and sudden movement, and for a brief moment everything went dark. Inside her head she heard a low and disapproving growl, which she knew (given how often Jareth chided her about doing dangerous things) was directed towards her carelessness in performing the techniques that had drained her of so much blood. It would take but a few moments to repair the damage, but in the interim being carried seemed much more reasonable than walking under her own power.

Valen was correct of course, the wound was affecting her. Though she didn’t like to admit it, subconsciously she was aware that she was not immortal. Her subconscious being Jareth, as she never thought about such things. She also allowed him to apply fire to the wound, although it would do little to seal it. She didn’t comment on it at the time, merely let him carry her, and when he kissed her forehead she would smile and speak softly. “Thank you, my Knight. I will attend to the wound when we reach shelter. While the cold does not bother most of us, it would be less fun to freeze a potential combatant when there’s so much fun to be had with him unfrozen.”

They arrived at the cave with the snow blustering around them, and the falling snow would follow her inside the rocky shelter. With a wave of her hand she would redirect the snow so that it fell only outside and not immediately around her, and would kneel down to begin healing the wound on her arm. It would take a few minutes but after a time the wound would close up as though it had never been there. In that time Valen went in and out of the cave, gathering wood for a fire that he eventually lit with his katon chakra. Sayuri didn’t care for the increase in heat but she did not begrudge the others having access to it. She had not been insincere in her wish for everyone to be in their best fighting form.

She answered Valen’s question first, he was looking for information on what they were going to fight. The grin that lit up her face when he asked though was nothing short of wicked. “You’ve already met them, Valen. Well, two of them. At my ice palace you met Marshmallow and Frederick. Though I think I won’t have you fight Marshmallow, he is a bit of a tough fight I imagine. And perhaps not even Frederick. But you’ll find Zavala more of an even match, though similar in style. Giant ice monster that likes to stop things from moving. Permanently.”

She let that sink in for a time, and allowed a moment for anyone to pose any followup questions if they were so inclined. She would then turn to Burittsu and nod, gracing him with a less wicked smile. “I would be happy to teach you. One I think that you might find useful presently is the Ice Sword Technique. A simple technique that only requires that you channel your Hyoton chakra through the air and visualize the swords you wish to be created. You can then wield them, or even hurl them through the air if you wish. I should warn you though, the cost to create them is heavy and takes a great deal of stamina each time you want to make one. They are also impermanent, so not really good for a long term fight.” As she described the technique she would lift a hand and create a glittering katana seemingly out of thin air and hold it in her hand for all to see, then dismissed it back into the snow outside the cave. “Now you try, seeing as you already wield a sword it should come as second nature to you.”

notes:

Valen would frown when he failed to successfully cauterize the wound that his Queen had left upon herself. However he knew that was a distinct possibility given his current weakness. Her assurance that she would take care of it when they got to the cave however would set him at ease and he would nod his head in acknowledgement as he carried her toward their temporary abode. The snow and ice would continue to fall around them as Sayuri's presence manifested within the world around them and the Yuki woman would utilize her capabilities in Ice Release to clear the cave entrance for them so that they could enter. Once that was done he would bring her inside and set her down before going to obtain the firewood and starting the fire for the cave. Then when he asked his question he would listen to her intently as she commented that he already knew of the kind of constructs they would be fighting. He would nod his head in remembrance of that day. Starting upon the beach and being carried up to the Ice Palace of the woman in the hands of a giant golem of ice and snow.

He fondly remembered what had happened once they had gotten to that palace. However the object of this recollection was the golem that had carried them up to it. It had been large, and at least strong enough to carry both Sayuri and himself in one hand upon it's palm. Given what she had said, they wouldn't be fighting that one. But one that was weaker and more able to be handled. The fire swordsman frowned at having to be relegated to the weaker opponent in any situation. He wanted to be pushed, wanted the thrill of combat to sing through his blood. Something that overall, had not occurred yet. He would nod his head anyway. Sayuri was his owner and master after all, if she said they would fight the weaker one. Than the weaker one is the one they would fight. Still, with his question answered he would lean his back against the smooth surface of the wall and let the heat from the fire wash over him. He wouldn't fall asleep, instead he would simply breathe in, and then breathe out. Deeply, and slowly, allowing himself to recover from the minor conflicts of the day.

He would listen to the teaching of Blitz, even open one eye to watch the formation of the sword. He would study the technique carefully, the formation of the weapon from her hand as the ice and snow coalesced into a bladed form. He wondered idly if he could do such a thing with fire itself? It was something to test to be sure. But not today, for today he would simply relax against the wall, legs more or less splayed out before him and arms at his sides.

[6]

Sero would glance up at the sky as the light began to dim. A full day had passed as they recuperated from their spent energies. It was about an hour before dusk now and they would soon face their second challenge. However Sero wondered just how prepared they truly were. Against him alone it would have been a challenge but with Sayuris construct as well...perhaps it was too much to ask. Or perhaps it was not. In any case he would have to see for himself once the time came. Snow had built up across the entire island and was now almost knee deep. Mounds of it covering the already frozen wasteland. So this was the passive reflection of Sayuris power? Interesting indeed. However it would not bar passage for Sero. Instead he would circulate his katon chakra just a little hotter than normal around himself. Turning the snow around him back to water and clearing his path. Of course it would quickly freeze over once he was gone but the path would remain. Just a little bit more of a slick path than anything. Some would even find it easier to move through the snow. Of course tracking him in this would be a simple task.

Still in time he would find the entrance to this cave. It had been mostly covered by snow and ice but Sero could see the faint flicker of flames from the narrow opening at the entrance where smoke was escaping. His blue eyes took it in a moment before he looked around one more time. The snow would make movement difficult if they fought here. The golems would have enough strength to ignore it...but if the others wished to move freely they would need to clear the snow or use supernatural walking practice. It would be interesting to see how they chose to deal with it. For now he would lift his right hand as he approached the entrance. A searing noise could be heard like hot metal being dropped into water as he pushed against the ice and snow. Soon the entrance was fully cleared once more with steam rising around Seros form. That presence filled the cave once more but it seemed as if there was more to it....there was the remnants of the bijuu chakra for those sensitive to it. The color of the fire would shift to green in his presence and cast a glow across the cave. Still he would move to sit by Sayuri and watch to see how Buri would do with this new technique in silence.

Regardless of how well Blitz did he would remain silent and leave any teaching to Sayuri. He knew nothing of Ice techniques even if he did have the base elements for it. He could not produce it. Instead the fire would dance as a reflection in his blue eyes as he waited until the light outside would dim and fade. The shadows in the cave cast by the green flame stretching and playing behind him. Five tails dancing outside of his sight. Still he would take a breath once the sun had fully set to speak once more. Only this was mostly to Sayuri over the other two. They were here to be tested. It would be up to the only person here holding any rank to decide.

"My queen...shall we keep this test simple with the base jutsu or do you think them capable enough for the amplified version? Takano appears to be deep in meditation so I do not see him being of any help to the other two. Or I could invite other genin to join us as well."

Listening seemed the best thing he could at the time and attempting to understand the woman from his own standpoint it was clear that her and Valen shared something but the fact he was allowed to know more only proved he was fit to be a shinobi. Sitting back against the wall as he tried to fit in certain pieces of clues to find out the type of monster they would indeed be encountering brought thrills pumping into his veins. Almost forming a smile upon his face he was indeed excited to see this threat as on the outside he seemed interested but on the inside he felt nearly empty. Death itself was closer then he had liked to experience but it also felt like his encounter left him missing a key factor in his mind he only thought of the figure he met before being pulled from the brink. In time his thinking stopped. It seemed he pondered off into his mind deeply as he gazed back towards the two. Their conversation was over once again he missed out important information.  But the time to complain or ask questions was long gone as it was his turn to be put in the light with her eyes staring back into his, the pressure almost felt intense for an odd reason. Such an odd feeling as if he was terrified to make any moves in hopes he wouldn’t disappoint the princess any further with his actions but she gave the command and even showed it physically. With her warning taken to heart Burittsu sat up off the wall himself and stood before everyone tall and proud with both his hands out. In a moment he closed his eyes and began to concentrate.

The sound of hissing greatly increased coming from outside as if an army of venomous serpents were released across the land seeking out their next victim but Burittsu remained motionless his eyes remained shut. His body felt the pressure increasing inside the vicinity. The pressure was also known as it felt like it was just starting to build up inside of him. Was it fear or regret but only time would tell he never focused on his chakra natures as he should have but the learnings from his old village should have been good enough from him to start somewhere now with both of his instructors before him he aimed to follow Valen and grow along the path of the shinobi. In his heart and mind he thought of the very nature that awaited him outside the shelter, how the cold never bothered him but the white blanket could go on for miles if it desired. To him it reminded him of isolation doomed to walk the path of purgatory to him that felt like home where no one would bother him unless he saw fit. Burittsu didn’t think of the snow as something cold but something to be feared and used he embraced its element as between his hands the clouds of his hyoton began to merge from his left and right meeting in the middle.

“We’re really doing this?! I thought you were just giving up on yourself again. Color me impressed.”

His own voice rang across the land that rested in his soul, his own escape that he longed for, forgotten without movement or fear his worries went away as the words traveled throughout his mind and body. In a sense he almost felt relieved to hear the voice within him once again he wanted to understand why he was hearing him now unless if he was going crazy he could only take such nonsense to the grave. With his eyes closed he smiled heavily as he saw the sheer fact of himself being determined to figure out what pushed him down such a road but as always he had nothing to say or reply but only with his feelings he continued to act first before thinking. In a burst from his hands the sword that he truly desired to carry his will and dreams was constructed before the group. A slim handle leading up to a large robust sword almost the size of Burittsu’s body instinctively went for the handle to grab the weapon in return it itself shattered, draining Burittsu of his stamina in a mere seconds. Such a fool to have tried so fast without even more training leaning back against the wall to catch his breath his eyes were now wide open gazing back at those who sat before him. He remained there motionless catching his breath for a short time before chuckling once more and placing himself before the group with his head touching the floor bowing to the both of them with the exception of the swordsmen and doctor he owed each one his life.

“Thank you.”

Spoiler:

W/C Used 150/150

Sayuri spent the hours healing herself and chatting with the assembled shinobi. This even included one or two ‘ghost’ stories, since they were sitting around a campfire and all. The story was one that Jareth had told her before, and so she allowed him to tell it once more, the rich timber of his voice colouring her own as he spoke through her. Her voice was lilting as Jareth retold the cautionary tale.

Campfire Story:

A wicked grin would spread across Sayuri’s pale face as she finished, relishing in the imagery of the lone woman being ripped to pieces by wolves. It also made her think of her own run in with the wolves on her mountain, and that just made it all the more funny.

When Sero asked her opinion on how best to challenge the genin, she would tilt her head in thought for a moment before answering. On the one hand she did love violence and carnage, but on the other hand she had no interest in killing anyone present and did not want to be responsible for any of their deaths. She was open to the idea of adding more people however, and she would turn her attention to Sero to reply. “If you think it’s best, then more Genin are acceptable. I believe I will be using Zavala for the fight with the present company, the less powerful version of my beloved Ice Forged. Though with more shinobi I could summon Frederick perhaps. . . I leave that decision in your capable hands my Dread Knight.”

Seemed amusing to sit around and hear stories from the princess herself but it surprised him when her voice was drastically changed into a being he never heard of, something sinister seemed to be occurring but only in vocal patterns. It strung a story together and weaved a tale of peace and paradise well that was only before the plot itself appeared destroying any hope of peace in the story but the paradise itself would remain. Mother nature herself is cruel enough to add such a beast yet willing to give humans a chance to be weak with no actual form of protection besides their limbs. The woman herself was amazing; it seemed something to study and watch closely. He could only desire to learn more as long as he lived in hopes it would please his saviour one day she could only laugh a little after such a story and with a grin on her face. It almost felt positive that she enjoyed what she does in hopes of whatever she seemed to be planning, be it his death or more training to gain some type of knowledge.

He could only watch as she communicated with her comrade, placing his back against the wall of the cave; he remained silent and paid attention; the talk of summoning itself was out of his league. No shape or form to even commit such training it was amusing to see the two of them get along especially since now seeing how one mirrors the other it made sense why she has a band of warriors. More like minded people joined her cause and fulfilled her dream Burittsu could only smile and think if he was one of those like minded people or was he just filling up a gap for someone better. These thoughts kept him sharp and always eager to learn but currently it seemed like he himself was being watched once more a slight headache kicked in hurting the left side of his head. Such an annoyance seemed no problem but it came with something that only disturbed him and would continue to haunt him for what reason he will never know.

“My.. Dread.. Knight.. Isn’t that cute she has a title for him.. Don’t you want a title from her? It seems you’re going to have to earn it so work hard for the both of us...Or maybe if you do die I’ll be the one coming back this time…..Just kidding..”

Such a monster haunted him as his own voice rang inside his head causing the headache to ache harder each word stuck to Burittsu heavy and filled with hope but the last words themselves felt personal. Those last words felt cold and true there was no joke in those words as far as he could tell he should believe every word that comes from the mouth of the being it was him who dragged him out the water. To say such words in hopes of pushing the boy or watching him fail it all didn’t make sense to Burittsu but as he saw for himself the words yet again only touched his ears the figure was only in his head. If this even reached the two in front of him they would dispatch of him no need for someone who can’t keep up mentally and physically. From under his breath as the figure stood tall and proud Burittsu gave a response out loud forgetting the words of the other were only heard in his head.

“I won’t fail..”

Sayuri would pass the time with a ghost story, the wicked tale of a woman finding a wondrous place filled with beauty and rich scents and vibrant vista's that drew her attention. Yet was inevitably no more than a death trap filled with wolves who tore her apart limb from limb. Valen nodded at the story, his masters voice changing in tone slightly as she told it. As if she were impersonating someone else. Or as if someone else with a deeper voice were trying to speak with their voice through his vocal cords. He paid it no mind though, his master was an odd one, with a flair for the dramatic at times. Once the story ended Sero would arrive into the cave, the scent of fire and the sound of melting ice and snow would announce his arrival or at least the arrival of something. Valen's hand would idly close around the hilt of his weapon until he saw that it was Sero coming to the cave. He would hold his hand upon the hilt, ready to defend himself if the man chose to test them now. When Sero settled next to Sayuri, obviously not intending to surprise them with such an endeavor the swordsman would release his weapon and turn to look at the fire.

The flames had turned green, a flickering fire of fel energy that coloured all around it in it's cast. The blue haired man would ask Sayuri questions about the power level of the jutsu they were using. As well as whether or not he should add more people to the fold. Valen himself stayed quiet, perfectly content to sit quietly and watch and listen. Sayuri, his queen, would respond to his question, naming a name Valen had not heard before but referencing 'Ice Forged' which was something he most definitely had encountered. Memories of being carried up to her ice palace ran through the red eyed genin's mind rapidly. The opportunity for more individuals to fight alongside was interesting to Valen as thus far his two companions had proven to be disappointments in his eyes. Takano had seemingly spaced out entirely, either already having checked out from his trip to the island thus far and Blitz seemed odd, given that he had gotten so brutally injured so early on. The fire swordsman was not confident in the prowess or competency of his companions. Still, he intended to push forward, ever moving onward upon the path to power.

With dusk having arrived it was looking as if it were time for them to begin and the swordsman stood before any others did and left the cave. Looking around he would see the ice and snow and nod to himself he had seen this coming of course and it would have to be dealt with. Forming seals he would hold onto the tiger seal and take a deep breath before utilizing the great fireball technique to melt down a large portion of ice and snow. He had recovered his chakra nicely from before so he wasn't overly concerned at the moment. He used the jutsu twice, covering large swaths of area and melting the ice and snow completely. This would free up space for him and Blitz to fight against their foes. With that done he would move into the cave once more. That snow had built up over hours, so it shouldn't build up enough to be a problem before they had to fight.

Stuff:

Sero would listen as his eyes shifted to Takano. He had expected Blitz to be the one to fully check out but it appeared Takano had instead. An oddity considering he had been the one to slaughter the first wave. Perhaps being reintroduced to life or death situations so soon was too much for him. Cold eyes regarded him a moment before shifting to the other two. Blitz seemed to be keen on his own self reflection and studying some ice techniques while Valen had set up their base with what was readily available. The fire was likely a welcome addition for Takano to relax some but for the rest within the cave...it was more of a comfort than a necessity. Still he would not comment on it. The smoke rose and left the cave from where he had come in and while it marked them....it wasn't easy through the snowfall. Their chosen home base for the exercise was well suited given the snowfall. He would give them points for securing it. Even if they had lost some for one losing consciousness and the other checking out. Without their kill leader involved he would turn his eyes to Valen. Blitz wasn't ready to take control...so perhaps the boy would. Though he had been forced to be a follower most of his life...would he be able to take command here? Would he even want to?

Still it was Valen who would rise first and exit the cave. Darkness had fallen outside so the time had come for the exercise. Horror story or no they were about to experience horrors of their own. He watched Valen leave before he would respond to Sayuri. "Tonight is too soon to involve others. This test will be for these two. Takano will be taken home in the morning if he has not recovered his mind. A weaker version of each of ours should be enough to challenge these two appropriately. I will begin the preparations." He would comment before rising from where he had seated himself next to his queen. Bowing his head low before turning and heading for the mouth of the cave himself. His cold eyes never blinking as he emerged from the abode. Cold blue eyes would take in the scene before him quickly. Valen had already prepared the battlefield. Clearing it of the present snow with fire jutsu and in the process lighting a couple of trees on fire. Casting a glow over the arena now free of snow.

Sero would shift like a wraith as he circled away from the cave. Shifting to the edge of where Valen had cleared the snow. Water trickled here and there and quickly began to freeze when it reached the snow. Even without Takano Valen and Buri could combine their talents to survive. Fresh water and fire to cook whatever they found. Still Sero did not care for thinking too far into the future. The here and now would be challenging for the two of them. Quietly he would lift his hands. Forming hand seals at adequate speeds. Dog, Tiger, monkey, horse, hare, bird, Ram, Ox. Once finished he held both his palms forward as his hands seemed to erupt outwards into a mass of bones forming into one massive ten meter tall being. As the last erupted from his hands they reformed like liquid into his normal pale fingers. However the Bone Golem that had emerged shifted to rise to its full height. The mass of bones with its empty eyes in its massive skull eyeing Valen for the moment. It had its prefered target...though if it couldn't catch him...it would go after Blitz....the battle was about to begin.

Jutsu used: