New World Order: The Annihilation of the Old

Hizashi stood amongst a pile of water, steel, and blood. The ground was torn asunder and giant steel spikes jutted from the ground like half-formed skyscrapers. Nee-san and Shin had made their move on the southern part of the island. The shore below was rocky and above them were a series of elevated platforms where one could safely watch the action. It was as if nature itself had contorted the area into a stadium with the center being Hizashi and his betrayers. He had entrusted the former Kage to help build his Leviathan. A mechanical monstrosity that would be his opening salvo in the war against the degenerate and corrupt shinobi society. They were loyal followers and dutiful shinobi. He knew that it weathered them to work for something other than their own glory, but he felt that in time they'd come around. Surely the collapse of their home villages was enough to cast a light upon their civilization's inadequacy? Apparently not.

The ungrateful pair of puppeteers had done as he had asked, but no sooner had he shown a moment of vulnerability had they pounced. The Leviathan was the most chakra-intensive invention known to man. It required a literal Bijuu just to sustain itself and with the Two-Tails no longer in play, Hizashi had decided to part with his own Tailed Beast. Now that Honiko had found the artifact he had spent several lifetimes searching for, he had no need of the Hachibi. The Tsuchikage and Kazekage had come to him as friends. Urging him to part with the demon right then and there so that they could prepare his Leviathan for awakening. He had removed the Gyūki from his soul and the moment its power had left him, all hell broke loose. An armada of puppets had burst from the ground, sky and sea. Every corner of his vision was distorted with metal and sand. The calm of his island was disturbed by thunderous explosions as the two sought to wipe him from existence. They must have been planning their betrayal for quite some time as every detail of the attack was immaculate. Even more impressive was that they had done it all without arousing his suspicion or that of his lieutenants.

Unfortunately, it wasn't enough.

Even without the Eight-Tails or his prize, Hizashi was able to defeat them. It had taken a considerable amount of power to do so and longer than he'd have liked, but by the end of it all, neither turncoat lived. The mangled and zombified corpse of Nee-san Tetsudashi lay at Hizashi's feet. The fuuinjutsu that had brought him back to life was overlaid with another. A seal created and applied without his knowledge. It had given Nee-san the ability to override his commands and act on his own accord. An ingenious formula but not without its own costs. The top half of his body had been severed from the bottom and his metallic features were distorted by a thick acidic substance. Nee-san's iconic black shades lay next to his melted face. Crushed and forgotten.  

Shin Kazehana was likewise dismembered. The Kazekage's head was somewhere at sea. Hizashi had ordered the seas to claim it and it was now probably at the bottom of the Kaijuu Ocean. In Hizashi's hand was Shin's core. The construct contained his heart and whatever bio-mechanical apparatuses were responsible for housing his conscious. The core was soaked with blood and water. Its casing was ruptured at multiple key points and its edges were clearly damaged with the same acid that disfigured Nee-san's face. It had long ago ceased operating yet Hizashi found himself still staring at it. The hand that was holding the core was cut and on his arms were signs of damage. Second degree burns, lacerations, and a few bruises. They had put up a heroic fight indeed. Although the rest of his body was unblemished, Hizashi was focused on what little harm they were able to inflict. He could have healed it but he didn't. He wanted it there as a reminder of his own mortality. He had forgotten what it felt like to fear for his life. The Water Disciple was "immortal" but even he knew better than to think in those terms. They were ways around his permeance. Nee-san and Shin knew of them and had attempted to exploit them. Hizashi knew that the longer the depraved ninja society existed, the more the number of potential counters grew. He could not outrun death forever. He'd need to conquer it once and for all. And with his Benefactor's help, he intended to do just that.

Hizashi tossed the core into a nearby puddle. The waves crept up alongside the ground and began to claim more of the puppets. With each tide, they cleared the area of debris. The sky was a muddy grey color and a persistent rain began to fall. It appeared to contain certain acidic properties which broke down the steel pillars and the puppets littering the ground. It was harmless to flesh for the time being though. The only person currently present was Honiko Yoshidara. She had watched from her perch just a few meters above where the fight took place. She had arrived the day before and when she sensed the attack, she had been the first to arrive. She had been ordered to stand down and like the loyal soldier she was, she did as he was commanded. Honiko had watched as Hizashi fought both of the Gokage. As the battle wore on, it was obvious why he didn't want anyone interfering. She had been away for so long that she had almost forgotten why she worshipped him. She needed to to bask in his glory firsthand and the insurgency provided her the perfect opportunity to do so. Once it was finished, Honiko took a step forward but Hizashi held up his hand. She was holding the item he needed but he saw no harm in denying himself for a few minutes longer. The mysterious package was clearly a sword albeit wrapped in a thick cloth which was nearly black with fuuinjutsu.

He wanted the others to see.

Honiko stood right where she was. She would come to him when he was ready and not a second sooner. She was wearing her traditional battle garb. For although her mother had bought her a more high-tech version, she preferred to dress in the armour that her Master had given her. She was glad to see him in person again but none of it showed. She was the model of restraint and discipline. When the others arrived, there would be no doubt as to who was the most loyal among them. Hizashi scanned the horizon as he waited for the rest of his lieutenants to show up. Aside from the leadership core and their immediate students, other lieutenants from various divisions and levels of importance would join Honiko among the elevated platforms. Hizashi bent down and washed his hands of his former compatriots blood. As he rubbed the crimson away using a small puddle, he reminisced on the memories he had with Gyūki. The voice of his millennia old friend was no longer in his heart and it pained him.

Even 1,000 years isn't enough time to say goodbye... he thought mournfully.

Nozomi and Isobu had travelled together, arriving at the Isle of Whispers as a pair. The two of them wore their standard gear, more or less. Isobu with his slight armor, Nozomi in her battle Kimono, hair shorn to shoulder length. She'd cut it on her way, using the black tanto she kept over her shoulder. Nozomi was far above where she had been the last time she was at the Isle, and Isobu had been given an Avatar in the form of a Human body. Nozomi as she was now far surpassed the level she had been at during the Comet.

In some ways, it was the start of Nozomi's journey on her own. Up until that point, she'd had a boss that was giving her orders, but after Hagoromo's Comet, Nozomi had been officially placed in charge of the Society as the leader. Honiko was off world, Hizashi didn't ever seem to care about what she did. She had truly been in charge of her own life since the day of the Comet. It had been that day that Nozomi had truly beaten the 3 tails into submission, and it was shortly after that that Isobu had come to an understanding with Nozomi and they'd truly formed a bond.

Since then, Nozomi had mastered the art of Sage Mode, perfecting it to the utmost of her body as well. Even without it, she was pushing the upper boundaries of her human body and what it was capable of. There were those out there that sought the power of a Kekkai Genkai, but Nozomi didn't rely on that sort of thing. It was never needed.

She'd spent several years here, and walked through a familiar path. While she walked, she contemplated about the true nature of Hizashi's power. It wasn't hard for her to know where he was, she had viewed the explosions that had taken over the island. It was a surprise to be sure, and she had originally wondered if the Kage had decided to spring an attack on the Isle without informing her. Still, she didn't know the outcome of the battle, nor who had really initiated it. She'd find out when she reached him, something she didn't speed up for at all. Either he won, or he lost. She didn't care too much either way. In some ways, it would be easier if she just didn't have to fight Hizashi at all. Then she could truly serve Honiko's dreams.

It was upon coming up to Hizashi that Nozomi's gaze was diverted. Honiko had returned from her trip. Immediately, Nozomi's heart leapt, excitement at seeing the woman who had trained her, all thought of Hizashi drawn from her mind at the moment. As usual, she disregarded any respectful motions to Hizashi, going into a kneel while facing Honiko. She was willing to defer to Honiko as her leader once again without question. The avatar of Isobu stood behind Nozomi, but was more interested in taking in the scene around them.

Isobu's eyes were drawn to the slightly damaged arm of Hizashi. He'd been injured in this fight, but the caliber of the combatants was an unknown. Strong, at the very least.

After a moment though, Nozomi's gaze shifted away from Honiko, back to Hizashi, and she rather easily identified the corpse of Nee-san, and the destroyed puppet form of someone she could only assume was Shin. Her eyebrows furrowed as she wondered why they had attacked Hizashi now. The two of them were washed up Kage who hadn't been relevant in a long time. Hizashi's power was always going to be on a scale that was larger than any amount of power they might have had. They weren't even her level.

Nozomi smirked. Not only was this proof that Hizashi was strong, at least enough to do away with two former Kage relatively easily, it was proof enough that he was vulnerable to damage. He'd been injured in the fight. Had he just taken the nations a long time ago, as he should have, he'd already be in charge, but his inaction had cost him two of his own fighters. Nozomi was even more sure that Hizashi wasn't worthy of Honiko.

----
-0.5 Sensory Technique

Honiko waited patiently for the conference to begin. As she stood in the rain, she blinked her eyes a few times as a familiar chakra signature entered her range. Honiko's acolyte had been running the Society for nearly four years at this point but from Honiko's perspective it felt like over a decade. The time dilation of space travel was something that even she had a hard time adjusting to. The Mind's Eye of the Kagura gave Honiko a complete picture of all the activities on the island. She could sense the lieutenants and captains of the Society making their way to her location, but she froze them all out in favor of her one and only. She had never trained a more loyal and skilled apprentice than Nozomi. True to her word, she never worried about Nozomi's ability to take care of herself and the organization to which she had been entrusted. Whatever task Honiko had given her, no matter how difficult or impossible, Nozomi accomplished it. It was this unceasing devotion and inability to disappoint that made her such a valuable asset to their cause. Honiko understood that Nozomi cared little for Hizashi and his mission. It was less than ideal, but to be expected. She hardly knew him or what he was capable of. Honiko was confident that in time, Nozomi would come to understand the beauty of his mission and what he had sacrificed. Soon, she too would be just as committed to establishing his vision.

Honiko sensed that Nozomi was traveling with someone. An individual with a bizarre yet familiar chakra. At first, she speculated as to whether it was Raijin but that didn't feel right. Honiko focused back on Nozomi and as the blonde drew nearer, she found herself facing a peculiar decision. Honiko normally had no qualms about reading Nozomi's heart with her Mind's Eye. In fact, it was a regular occurrence while the two had trained, fought, and lived together. Honiko did not like to play guessing games with where her subordinates stood on any given issue at any given time. It allowed Honiko to tailor her training and teaching accordingly. It also lessened the likelihood of surprise betrayals like the one Shin and Nee-san had sprang on her own sensei. Over the years, she had used it sparingly and only in times when she felt Nozomi's sense of stability was in crisis. However, after Honiko had left Earth she had done some thinking. Lots of thinking. Nozomi was no longer a young woman to be molded and manipulated. She was a fierce warrior that had earned her independence. She now trusted her to speak and fight in her name and for Hizashi's mission. It was the highest honor she could ever bestow on anyone. If she could not trust Nozomi's intentions, thoughts, and desires then had she been lying to her liege?


Honiko decided to restrain herself. She tracked Nozomi's movements and nothing more. Before long, she was greeted with the sight of a gorgeous kunoichi. The model of discipline, power, and uncompromising loyalty. Nozomi immediately kneeled in her Master's presence. Truthfully, the former Dragon Sage was overjoyed to see her student. She could taste the excellence emanating from her. She did not know the details of Nozomi's progress but she could tell right away that she had done more than well for herself and their objectives. Of course, Honiko was not one to broadcast these emotions. She stared passively and without emotion as her student demonstrated fealty. Nozomi was probably stronger than her, even now, but her submission was of a different make and quality. It was an ideological and social sort of submission. The type of deference that was reserved for lovers who truly understood each other. Honiko offered a single word to her kneeling disciple.

"Stand"

If Nozomi obeyed, Honiko would now approach her student. She was not pleased that Nozomi had failed to acknowledge Hizashi. It was insolent and though she was glad to see her disciple, she would have to address that insult later. Fortunately, Hizashi wasn't one to care about that sort of thing. Nozomi would be forced to kneel before his glory in time. The Sage inspected her student for a few seconds without saying anything. The most remarkable feature about Honiko was that despite being gone for so long, she looked the exact same. Long white hair folded and knotted into a style that was both attractive and functional, burgundy armour, alabaster skin, and a piercing set of red eyes marked by severe burns.

"You are in rare form Nozomi" She had used her Mind's Eye like a scalpel. Carefully avoiding Nozomi's thoughts or intentions, but instead probing her chakra capacities and talents. What she found was impressive. Although her face didn't show it, Honiko felt nothing but pride. Her investment had grown by leaps and bounds. Honiko wouldn't pass further comment for the time being. Nozomi knew her sensei. Less was more. She now turned to the man who had accompanied Nozomi. He was not one of her recruits but she couldn't shake the feeling that she knew him. She noticed that both he and Nozomi had eyed the aftermath of Hizashi's fight. She didn't need to be a mind reader to know what they were thinking. Nozomi relished a challenge and Honiko was confident that nothing on this world had provided it to her yet. If Nozomi was still looking at Hizashi and the scene before them, Honiko reached out and tucked a combination of her thumb and index finger under Nozomi's chin. She gently guided her student's attention away from him and towards her.

"Look elsewhere"

She didn't need to say more than that. Nozomi would know what she meant. If she needed to test her power, Honiko would rip open space-time itself to find her a worthy opponent. However, it would be suicide to face off against the Water Disciple. There were some fights that were worth losing. This was not one of them. He might ignore her disrespect because she was a valuable tool but if she indicated that she was his equal or greater, then he'd issue correction. Honiko wanted to spare Nozomi (and herself) that pain. Regardless of how the warning was received, Honiko move her touch and instead shift her positioning so she was now standing next to Nozomi. She hadn't bothered to acknowledge the stranger. Instead, she fell silent as she enjoyed her student's presence. They had a lot of work to do but she could spare a moment to re-connect with Nozomi and just being next to her was enough to accomplish that.

The new Dragon Sage had finally arrived to hunt Isle. He flew there mostly on the back of C then continuing the journey on his own once he reached the Isle of Whispers. He was garbed in an all blood red ninja outfit. Baring no symbols for once. On his sides were his precious swords. And a sash around his torso holding the Black Death near his chest. There were elevated platforms and Raijin made his way too the one Hizashi presided on. There had been a great battle here. Seeing as only the Society members knew where this place was it had to be former members turned traitor. This was very amusing news to Raijin. It also showed just how powerful Hizashi was. No one to cross.

Though his eyes were present on the damage done to their leader. He quickly noticed Nozomi and Honiko were there as well. It had been quite some time that he had seen either one of them. Honiko finally returning back from her harrowing mission. And it seemed Nozomi had returned from her duties in Suna. He was not sure what she had been up to. He was not sure how to take his masters arrival. However he bowed to both of them as he drew nearer. He had evolved past the weak little boy that initially joined the Society so many years ago.

He would not have to list his accomplishments. His work would be the judge of that. And today he would show his true importance to the Society. Raijin now has another goal with Jashin that happens to align with the Society. It was perfect. Stopping a few feet away from Honiko after bowing. He would first speak to them, “It is a pleasure to see you back Master. I pray your mission was a success.” Nozomi had quite the attachment with Honiko. With Raijin it was a bit less, he had gotten what he wanted out of their teachings. He had gained tremendous power. So he was at least thankful for. But they were ruthless killers now, it was hard to muster any other feelings but respect.

And there was Hizashi. Raijin was indeed surprised to meet the man whom Honiko called master. He could tell immediately that he was not normal by any means. There was more to his power, which he was able to see aftermath of that power. He kneeled  to Hizashi, saying to him. “Greetings Grandmaster. I come bearing a gift to the Society.” The Dragon Sage reached for his sash on his chest. Removing the black dagger he showed it for all to see. “I bring the Black Death.” Another artifact they had been searching for. Important to the Sages. He wondered how important.

Omi was sitting in the lotus position on a cloud far above the Isle of Whispers. He could make out tiny figures battling for survival on the southern portion of the island. Unlike Honiko, he did not move to join the fight. He knew that if he entered without being called, he would only get in the way and even if he didn't, Hizashi would call him an interloper and punish him just the same. He felt no love for his Master and his loyalty was purely a product of fear. This reality ensured that Omi remained perched on his cloud, waiting to assist if necessary but certainly not out of choice. He did his best to observe the conflict neutrally, but he couldn't help but envy Nee-san and Shin. They were masters of their own destiny. The two had turned the tables on the Water Disciple and had gone out in a blaze of glory. Their choice was to die on their own terms. Omi knew their attack would be futile for he genuinely believed no one or no being could stop Hizashi, but that didn't stop a small piece of him from rooting for them. He had policed his mind so heavily to avoid pain and yet he could not help but long for their victory. To be free from Hizashi's tyranny, but for a moment, would be bliss.

Alas, it was not meant to be.

Omi watched as Hizashi got the upperhand on the two puppeteers. He out-moved them, outwitted them, and out fought them. They had the element of surprise on their side, but Hizashi had everything else. Soon the battle died and with it, the traitors Nee-san Tetsudashi and Shin Kazehana. Omi sighed and lowered his cloud to survey the damage. He would probably be put in charge of cleaning up what Hizashi's waves did not wash away. His gaze did not linger on the victor, instead they fell to his right hand. Honiko Yoshidara.. Omi knew that she could sense his presence and perhaps even his emotions. Fortunately, unlike Hizashi, she had never treated him cruelly. Callously? Occasionally. Coldly. Always. But she was always fair. So long as he did what was commanded of him and showed proper respect, he was left alone. The same could not be said of their Master-in-common. Early on, Omi was jealous of her. He had known Hizashi for longer and yet Hizashi treated him like garbage. Whereas he was sent to dispose of corpses and collect papers, Honiko was given gentle care and instruction. Out of all the descendants, it was clear that she was his diamond. As time passed, he had accepted his station in the Society. He would never be cared for the way she was and that was just the hand that destiny had dealt him.

Fortunately, what had been denied him, would be gifted to Yen-Lì in spades. The only challenge now was getting her to that point alive and with her sanity intact. While he was currently far away from her present location, Omi had been keeping track of Yen-Lì via his bees. They hovered at a respectable distance from the cabin containing her and Menza. He did not have them get too close as that would only irritate Menza and perhaps lead to him doing something rash out of sheer annoyance. He did not know what words transpired between them, but he did know that he had kept her safe. There was an understanding among all the descendants that they were expected to keep each other alive, especially at this crucial a juncture. Menza had probably not made it easy for Yen-Lì but he had done what was required of him. Omi could not let Yen-Lì know that he had been watching from afar. Little by little, she'd need to find her own strength and courage. Before she knew it, she'd be able to stand on her own power without him. Omi couldn't help but smile as one of his bees indicated to him that Yen-Lì was making her way over to the conference. Omi lowered his cloud of gyrating air and bees until he reached the platform that Honiko and Nozomi were standing on.

The burly man stood at an impressive 6'7 and weighed a portly 300lbs, most of which was muscle. In comparison to the petite women before him, he looked like a juggernaut. Yet appearances were deceiving. He was bound to serve the two women standing before him. They were his authority, size be damned. Omi had not missed Nozomi's arrival. The blonde had not been subtle nor was her flagrant disrespect to Hizashi. He had only dealt with her in a professional capacity, but from his knowledge of human psychology, he guessed that Nozomi was obsessively devoted to Honiko. This in turn likely made her jealous that Honiko's devotion was solely directed to Hizashi. It was a recipe for disaster.

Its none of my business is what it is. I live to serve.

Omi bowed to each of them separately. First to Honiko and then to Nozomi. "Welcome back Honiko-sama.....and Lady Nozomi it is likewise a pleasure to see you again" The two were much alike albeit where Honiko looked down on him, Nozomi was much more neutral. It was clear Honiko inherited a milder version of Hizashi's disdain. Fortunately, she had not passed it on to Nozomi. Omi had served Nozomi well whilst Honiko was away and she was as polite and as courteous as a boss could be. After his greeting, he then stepped back and away from them. It was clear that they were enjoying each other's company and he had no intention of disturbing that peace. He was now standing about 5 meters behind them. Out of sight and out of mind. Once Yen-Lì arrived, he would introduce her but for now he looked off in the distance.

The rain suddenly stopped and the daylight shining through the clouds grew dim as if God had switched off a light. Omi looked up to see none other than the Beast of Skies flying above them. C was truly of nightmarish size. His freakishly long wingspan rivaled that of a Bijuu and his temper was legend. The dragon landed and its rider dismounted, revealing himself to be none other than Honiko's second student. The boy who was once called Bayushi was now a man grown. He went by the name Raijin, but Omi knew that some referred to him by a different title. The Dark Lord... Despite his ominous title, he did not pretend to be above his leadership. He greeted Nozomi and Honiko respectfully. Omi did not expect a bow from Raijin. The Enlightened Custodian was a glorified errand boy and likely not someone the Dark Lord would respect.

Omi chanced a look at Honiko and he could tell that she was surprised. She did not wear her heart on a sleeve but there were subtle tells if you knew what to look for. He cast his eyes downwards before he drew her attention though. Instead, Omi heard her voice.

"It was Raijin. And judging by your steed and your spirit....yours's was as well"

Honiko had much to be proud of on this day. She had read Raijin like a book and he had improved almost every aspect of his personhood. She wasn't sure how he had brought the Dragons to heel, but however he had done it marked a major turning point in how she saw him. Honiko was no longer giving Nozomi the same degree of passive attention, she was now focused on Raijin. A student she had overlooked due to his lack of talent was about to do what few in their ranks had accomplished. Hizashi saw Raijin approach as he washed his hands off traitor blood. He stood and drew himself to his full height as the presumptuous shinobi entered his physical space. Raijin kneeled before Hizashi thereby showing more deference and respect than Nozomi ever had. When he presented the Black Death to Hizashi, the crowd that was now forming around the area grew silent. Each individual present was high enough on the Society's hierarchy that they would be able to recognize a Disciple's artifact. All Honiko could breath was a word:

"完璧"

It appeared even Hizashi was stunned by this development. Omi hoped for Raijin's sake that this artifact was the real McCoy. If not, he'd be drowned to death for bringing a forgery before the Water Disciple. To make a mockery of Hizashi's brother disciples was no small sin. Luckily, the blade was indeed real. Hizashi took the Black Death out of Raijin's hands and stored it on his person. He brought Raijin to his feet and smirked. He muttered something to himself in a language so old that it predated Hagoromo's arrival. It was his mother-tongue. The now lost tongue of a proud island clan that had existed for centuries before the birth of chakra. Honiko had only heard it twice. When she had mastered Sage Mode for the first time and when he had sent her off to collect his prize. He did not directly address Raijin's achievement, but he would in time, for now he gestured with his head for Raijin to go back to his sensei. Although, he couldn't help but make eye contact with Nozomi. The amusement on his face spoke volumes. Raijin had managed to do what she could not. It made him reconsider just how worthwhile keeping her around was.

Omi for his part remained silent and motionless. What had just happened was almost as surprising as the Gokage's Betrayal. Omi sensed a shakeup in the Society's power structure but since it did not involve him, he kept his mind off of it. He was more concerned with Yen-Lì and giving her a proper introduction into this New World Order.

Yen-Li walked across the Isle of Whispers, rain falling as she trudged through the landscape. The rain didn’t bother her, it may have been cold but she had never been affected by it, so how would she know? The black fabric, lace and leather outfit that she had put on was not unaffected by the weather however and before long the clothing was soaked and the feathers looked somewhat. . . less inspiring. The off the shoulder design clearly showed off the raised lightning shaped scars that covered her entire body except for her face, throat and the center few inches of her upper chest near her collar bone. There was also no scarring on the palms of her hands and her inner forearms, but that was hidden by her black leather gloves and sleeves, as well as her Kêu Vang - Gauntlet of Thunder on her right arm.  Around her neck was a small silver coloured pendant; a star set in small diamonds that hung from a simple leather cord. Yen-Li did not remember having any personal attachment to the item, it had simply always been there. Picking her way through the terrain in her high heeled boots, while not the absolute smartest thing ever, was something Yen-Li was used to. At her small stature of five feet even she had always felt that she wasn’t taken as seriously as taller people, so for as long as she could remember she’d chosen taller footwear to make up for her lack of height.

With her sensory still active, Yen-Li’s violet eyes would scan her surroundings searching for threats. Since she had arrived on the Isle of Whispers she’d had little to fear save for the true leader of the Society - Hizashi. Well, that and his creepy henchperson, Menza. Other than that though, she’d found nothing to fear here, until the massive explosions during her meeting with Menza. As she moved further towards her destination she began to see small bits of evidence of a large-scale battle. Bits of twisted metal, charred earth, shredded fabric and other assorted debris were scattered about. Only one here and there but eventually the density of the debris picked up as she kept moving in the direction Menza had pointed her in. Her heart was heavy as she sped up, she was starting to grow more and more worried. She hadn’t seen Omi, and sure in her heart she knew he was still out there. But she didn’t know if he was hurt. She couldn’t imagine what had happened, or more importantly, who had dared to start a battle on this island of all places. She’d spent a scant few minutes with Hizashi and despite her rage even she knew it was futile. Not that she imagined herself as the most powerful or anything, but she’d been nothing to him. And if her math was correct - multiple nothings was still nothing.

Eventually she saw where people had gathered, multiple raised platforms holding various members of the Society. Or so she assumed. She recognized Hizashi immediately and her stomach twisted as though she had been hit right in the gut. She hadn’t seen him since her arrival to the Isle of Whispers and the image of Omi drowning by Hizashi’s hand still haunted her. At some point the rain had stopped and it was sunny enough that her clothing and hair had dried, making her look less like a drowned rat. Running a gloved hand through her long dark hair, she did a quick and subtle once over of her appearance. She wasn’t vain by any means, but she did want to be presentable for what appeared to be a monumental occasion.

As she walked up the hill towards those assembled the sky darkened along with her thoughts; memories of Hizashi’s cruelty and Menza’s not-so-subtle threats manifested into dark thunderclouds that circled the island and threatened to overtake the brief moment of daylight. Yen-Li’s gaze flickered between all of the new faces, distant thunder rumbling in time to her rising anxiety. She was trying her best to remain calm, though she knew almost no one present, nor did she even understand what she had been summoned for in the first place. As soon as she reached the first platform her eyes were drawn to Omi - the towering behemoth that was her saviour and reason for living. Her eyes would meet his, trying to express her relief and joy at seeing him whole and well. Regretfully she would tear her eyes from Omi and turn to observe each other person in attendance, offering them each a respectful nod of acknowledgement. There were two women standing in front of Omi that she didn’t know and another man that was equally foreign to her. She was unsure how she should be greeting everyone that was assembled, and even though she definitely wanted to carve Hizashi’s eyes out with a spoon, she wasn’t interested in incurring his wrath. She knew that if she did that, he would inevitably take it out on Omi - and she didn’t want to be responsible for that. . . again.

The only thing she wanted to do was run to Omi; in a perfect world she would run to him and he would embrace her and they would travel off together into the sunset. Somewhere beautiful where no one could hurt them. But this was not a perfect world. Not yet. So she approached Hizashi and bowed. It was the hardest thing she could remember ever doing, and the skies cried out in dismay as she did it, thunder rumbling as lightning danced across the sky in the distance. Standing once more she would attempt to meet Hizashi’s gaze, holding her voice steady as she tried to hide her emotions. “Hizashi. . .” She paused for a moment as she struggled to find something respectful to say that wasn’t just ‘you know I hate you so let’s get this over with’. “I am here as requested.” Out of the corner of her eye Yen-Li could see the damage on Hizashi’s arm, and were she less concerned for Omi’s safety she would have pointed it out, or maybe even laughed. The irony of his arm being damaged when not too long ago he had done the same to her was not lost on her. For now though she waited in silence, unwilling to poorly represent her sensei and protector.

Somewhere in a portion of the Earth too far underground to measure, was a laboratory. This laboratory was staffed by some of the most intelligent scientists in the world. Its sprawling complex had multiple tiers and separate wings all working independently. One such wing housed Menza Sukiyama and his newly promoted henchman Yuyo. The junior mad scientist had proven his namesake accurate. Menza had "discovered" him during the war through his intermediaries and had hired him as a subordinate scientist. Yuyo had showed himself to be a rather worthy lieutenant. He had an astounding grasp on the principles of chakra without the meat-headedness that often accompanied such skill. While Menza toiled to bring Hizashi's vision to reality, he had employed Yuyo as his right hand to help with his research and development. Unlike Omi and Honiko, he had never really taken the prospect of having a student too seriously. Yui and her boyfriend left a bad taste in his mouth and after years of servitude, the concept of being responsible for another's development was foreign to him. It was only recently, when he began thinking of his future place in Hizashi's empire, that he began to wrestle with the subject. Menza had all but formally decided to make Yuyo his protégé and his conversation with Yen-Li had been the tipping point.

I have no intention of dying anytime soon....but how glorious would it be for my work to have a successor! One that outshines that dingbat of a turtle or that edgelord kinsman or that sad brainwashed widow of a woman? This world deserves a better class of student and who better than mine?!

It was less about legacy and more about competition in the present though. He deserved to have someone who he could confide in and whom he could watch embarrass his peers. Yuyo was that vessel and so Yuyo would be raised to a position worthy of his skill. In the dim light of the blood soaked lab, Menza placed both hands on Yuyo's shoulders and smiled with eyes as haunting as the horrors the two scientists had conceived.  

"Yuyo my boy, this is the first day of your new life. From this moment on, you are not just my minion....you are my student. A temporary title if you don't live up to that name of your's." Menza smiled maliciously. Yuyo had to know that while they both shared the same proclivities, Menza could care less for his well-being. He was a prop that was being groomed to assuage Menza's outsized ego. "But if you do as your told and if your work is as...." Menza gestured to the operating tables, stasis machines, and various instruments and organs dissected and made better by Yuyo. ".....thorough.....as I've come to appreciate then I suspect your reign will be as long as Hizashi's life. For every Lucifer needs a Beelzebub." Menza winked at his newly promoted student and grabbed his hand. "Now come! We have a meeting to attend!" The pair would then teleport to the conference.



Menza had left a Flying Thunder God tagged dagger about two clicks from the meeting itself. He had left the dagger after seeing the battle between Hizashi and his betrayers firsthand. The battle was a surprise, but the outcome was never in doubt. While Menza trekked to the actual location of the meeting, he entertained himself by talking to Yuyo about the Society and its inner circle. It was more or less petty gossip, but it provided an amusing diversion during the journey. Menza and Yuyo would thus arrive fashionably late. The mad scientists had insisted that they both wear their bloodied lab coats to the meeting. This was a rare decision as the immaculately groomed Menza rarely wore his lab coat out in public and he never wore it while it was soiled. Yet this was a special occasion. He was the Society's Chief Engineer, Doctor, and Scientist. He had put in years of work to make this plan happen and he wanted everyone to know it. He was as integral to the organization's mission as Honiko was even if he didn't believe the spiritual mumbo jumbo that often accompanied it. Coming from behind, Menza approached the small group consisting of Honiko, Nozomi and Raijin. He had arrived just in time to see Yen-Li bow to Hizashi. The act made him scoff loud enough for Honiko's entourage and Omi to hear. The two descendants turned to look at him but said nothing. They did not greet him nor did they even acknowledge him besides a grudging nod.

Both hated him for different reasons. It was of no concern to Menza. They despised him but they had no choice to respect him. When favors were needed or problems needed solutions other than violence and mind games, they came to him. Menza watched as Hizashi shoo-shoo'd Yen-Li from his presence. He was clearly unimpressed by her display of fealty. She had essentially been told to join the rest of the group. If she did, the seven most senior members of the organization: Honiko, Omi, Yen-Li, Raijin, Nozomi, Menza, and Yuyo would all be standing on the same platform. Other lieutenants would be standing on different platforms each of them operating under the auspices of the core leadership, but all of them being important enough to hear of Hizashi's declaration firsthand. Menza crossed his arms and surveyed the battleground. The disfigured corpse of Nee-san Tetsudashi laying in a puddle almost provoked a sensual reaction in the man. He hated his former master with every ounce of his being. As far as he was concerned, seeing Nee-san break free from his grasp just to fail in a pathetic rebellion would be the highlight of the decade.

"And the best is yet to come..." Menza whispered to Yuyo. The murderous surgeon would have known that his sensei hated Nee-san. The details were not given, but it was a known fact amongst the two of them that out of all the people in the world, Menza despised Nee-san the most. Menza's silent reveling was broken by Omi's deep voice. Should Yen-Li join the group, he'd introduce her. He was as stiff as Honiko and just as serious. Nevertheless, the Lightning Descendent would have likely been able to tell that he was just as glad to see her safe as she was him. Unfortunately, overt displays of affection was not something they had the luxury of sharing here. Omi was far more dispensable than Honiko and if he offended the Water Disciple, he'd be turned into an example.

"This is Raiun's descendent Yen-Lì ...she was lost but now she is found. With her, our number is complete." Omi would introduce her politely to the others using the appropriate formal names and titles. Honiko for her part was rather welcoming, not particularly expressive, but clearly respectful of her spiritual kin. He didn't introduce her to Menza because he knew the two had already met and he would not sully Yen-Li's honor by introducing her to one of Menza's miscreants. Honiko likewise ignored Yuyo. When Menza realized what they were doing, he yawned loudly and pushed Yuyo forwards. Menza winked at Yen-Li, as by now, she likely realized this stranger's presence was a byproduct of their earlier conversation.

"How rude of you all...this is my apprentice, Yuyo. When the war tears your bodies to pieces, you'll have him to thank for stitching you back together. Everyone thinks their invulnerable...until they aren't" Menza's eldritch eyes shifted to what was left of the puppeteers and then back to the group. More lieutenants were arriving and the meeting would begin rather soon.

Yuyo had been diligent in his research since gaining access to proper facilities. It was magnificent how much higher the survival rate was in a sterile environment with the proper tools and support. Of course based on the lack of ethical standards in their research the survival rate was more prolonging the inevitable than actually having standing survivors at the end of it. If they had a purpose of course they would be kept alive until such a time as their purpose was served. However most of what Yuyo was studying so intently didn't actually require survivors. It amused him that the path to the perfect being was lined and piled with bodies. So few could withstand his technique and those that did were under some illusion that they were strong enough to escape Menza of all people. Hell some of them thought to attack Yuyo. Those he had spent extra time breaking their minds and bodies. Simply experimenting with his technique and expanding upon his knowledge. What was the old saying? Ahh yes. Because knowing was half the battle. Such an amusing saying but highly undervalued. If he knew what his enemy was capable of...of their fears...of their desires...everyone could be manipulated on an almost spiritual level.

Of course Yuyo had found himself in the service of a magnificent specimen of a man. Menza was a scientist like himself and his mind was just a wondrous treasure trove of out of the box thinking. Yuyo had very few real goals for himself outside of expanding his knowledge of the mind and body and how to improve upon it. However working for Menza was a fun competition for him. His mind leagues ahead of most of the other henchman. Nor did he mind just being another face in the lab. All he cared about was impressing the man. His owner of sorts. Well their relationship wasn't really well defined. Yet Yuyo had exceeded expectations time and time again. He cared nothing of the society or who Menza answered to. The world was just field work and politics were an abrasive wall to progress. One thing mattered in this facility and others like it. That Menza was pleased at the end of the day. Most others strove to do so out of a wish to survive. However Yuyo saw him as more of a father figure and who doesn't want to impress their father?

So when Menza had participated with him in a particularly gruesome procedure the turn out had been rather well. They had managed to remove all the internal organs besides the brain and still make the body function normally without them. Removing the need to eat or sleep....or even worry about wounds or bleeding. Only the brain remained and they made it function as if the body were in peak condition. Yuyo was looking forward to seeing what this subject would be capable of withstanding. Subject D-35 had survived thus far so it was promising. However Menza would congratulate Yuyo and name him as his student. For a moment Yuyo was awestruck and smiling with those blue eyes...cold as ice as that smile eluded innocence. He was pleased to be recognized and evaluated as thorough. A student as well oh he could simply dance now. Still Menza wished to bring him along for some meeting. Yuyo would remove his surgical gloves and smile before acknowledging all of it.

"I live to serve master. I will not fail you I swear. We have much more to accomplish and your glory will be known and those with doubt will learn quickly."

With that said Yuyo would obediently go and teleport with Menza to the recent battlefield. His blue eyes blinking a couple of times as they adjusted. His blood stained coat not really bothering him as he stood there. Among this group Yuyo didn't particularly stand out. He had no equipment whatsoever on him. No artifacts...armors...weapons...all he had was his mind. His blue eyes would shift from person to person. Sizing them up and already deciding what ways he could improve each of them. Sure they likely wouldn't care for his methods but who couldn't use another pair of arms in a fight? His eyes finally settled on the two massacred individuals and he tilted his head. He was considering going to collect whatever was salvageable if anything from the two but for now he held still.There was a tension in the air against his master. Anyone who glared at Menza however would notice very easily how Yuyo smiled and stared at them. Unassuming and virtually without a sense of danger about him. As if nothing about Yuyo suggested he was even a mild threat. Aside from the blood on his lab coat. under that Yuyo was wearing black slacks and dress shoes with a grey tank top over his torso. His pale skin was littered with scars here and there as if he had patchworked himself into existence.

He would feel the air on his face as it blew the white hair out of it. His cold blue eyes shifting from those who dared glare at Menza and finally landed on Hizashi. Those wounds were a surprise but nothing threatening. So even the water disciple could be wounded? Which meant even Hizashi could be improved. An exciting concept for Yuyo. Oh how would he do it? How would he improve such a man? Subdermal armor? More fingers? Perhaps if he wasn't immortal the new experimental technique would help him along that path. Still he would feel himself suddenly pushed forward by Menza as he glanced back at him in surprise before looking to the rest. He was being introduced and he would blink a moment before bowing his head to Menza and as a secondary thought he would bow his head to Hizashi too. But only those two. He didn't care if anyone else held authority over him. He only cared for what Menza cared for and the man seemed to only care for himself and Hizashi.

"I look forward to working on you all. Don't be afraid to pop in and see what can be improved either. The limits of the body are only the limits of the imagination. Come see me and I will make you far more efficient. Or fix you up if that's all your imagination will allow."

One by one his flock gathered. Hizashi had washed his hands clean of the traitors' blood. All that remained was to address his organization. Some of the people present he had recruited himself. Raised them up from nothing and turned them into servants of Destiny. Others had been brought into the fold by his core lieutenants. The ones who were now standing off on a platform by themselves. A select few might even have been minions of their own protégé. He knew one such person existed in the form of Isobu incarnate. Whereas Honiko could not quite place the familiarity of the being's chakra, Hizashi recognized it right away. There was an unmistakable palate to the Bijuu's chakra that only he could see. No matter what form of flesh it took on, he would always be able to tell what lay underneath. For Hizashi had been there when the Bijuu were written into existence by his master. How Nozomi had conjured up a vessel for this artifact was a bit of an unknown, but ultimately it didn't matter. The Bijuu's power still resided in her and had not been compromised.

Hizashi could sense her contempt from the moment she arrived on the island. It reeked of insubordination and betrayal. He chose to say nothing for the moment but with the emotions she was giving off with respect to him, he figured it was only a matter of time before she tried her hand. Honiko had made a fatal mistake in training Nozomi. She had declined to give the girl the humiliation that was necessary for growth and humility. Given the jinchurikki's winning streak, it was no wonder she was overconfident. Hizashi had purposefully not hidden nor healed his wounded arm. He wanted to use his expressed vulnerability to root out more traitors, or at least, the stupid ones. It was why he did not react adversely when Nozomi declined to show him the respect that his students and his student's students showed him. The reactions and introductions that followed were all tame. Nothing surprising ever seemed to happen when you lived in this world for as long as he did. The earlier attack being a notable exception. The arrival of C and its rider provided a second.

Raijin had approached him and delivered the Black Death. Hizashi had never given the boy much thought. He hadn't figured into his designs the way Nozomi had. He truly was an afterthought born from Honiko's generosity. Had she not recognized his ambition and taken him under her wing, he'd be just another faceless shinobi in the armies of the ninja world. What he lacked in talent though, he more than made up for in devotion. When he presented the artifact to him it was now obvious that he was the most competent and loyal of his grand-students. He had dismissed Raijin for the time being, he had more to say before he rewarded this gift.

Hizashi allowed a few more minutes to pass. The space of the earthen platforms swelled as the meeting finally reached an acceptable quorum. Once Hizashi was satisfied with his audience, he stepped forward and as he did, the pools of water appeared to clear a path for him. He was wearing his typical cloak and hood that was embroidered with tribal designs. He removed the hood and revealed his face for all to see. For some, it would be the first time seeing him in person and for others it was the best glimpse of his visage that they had seen in years. He was rather young, no older than mid-thirties judging off of appearances although his eyes had a weary look to them. As if the soul behind them was older than the eldest of natural men. When he spoke, his voice was low and calm but it carried as though being echoed by the surface of the water itself.

"Salutations my chosen. You've been summoned here today to witness the end of history." Hizashi was not a fan of long and elaborate speeches. He preferred to be direct and delegate the task of inspiration and indoctrination to others when necessary. But on this day, he felt compelled to do as his sensei might have done. "Many of you know who I am and some of you do not. I've used the alias Hizashi for this quarter of the past millennium but its time you know my true identity. My name is Jōki and I am one of the Five Disciples taught by Hagoromo the Rikudō Sennin. For aeons I've kept my identity a secret. For a time it was based on the supposition that if humanity had nothing but itself to rely upon then they'd rise to the words of my late sensei. I've spent many years fighting and teaching.....but as time wore on so did my understanding of Hagoromo's wisdom. I and one of my brother disciples realized that kind words were not sufficient to save our species from itself. The cycle of war cannot be cured only killed. Permanently."

Hizashi paced a few steps the right, the way a college professor might as he lectured.

"For centuries I've gathered knowledge with the aim of bringing my brother disciples back. We did not always see eye to eye but we shared a concern....that the only thing keeping the peace was our supreme mastery of Ninshuu as a craft. I don't need to tell you that shinobi history past the Golden Age proved us right. We tried to hold on for as long as we could for we each had our own way of extending our lives. but I was the only one who managed to make the finite infinite. One by one my brothers passed on until there was only me and Hohoni. We decided that our only hope was to leave our sensei's dreams in humanity hands but one of us would stay behind in the shadows to try and guide them....but if that failed then we would stop at nothing to prevent the extinction of our kind. I allowed the world to believe I was dead and when Hohoni passed on, I did my best to nudge the succeeding governments in the right direction. As an adviser, sensei, healer, scholar....if you can think of it...I've done it. Time and time again, I learned that force was truly the only language the world understands. And so, I made it my mission to gather the strongest and most talented Sages I could find, use our abilities to bring back my brother disciples, and rule over the demos as a benevolent savior. It will be as it was in the old days....a restoration but with the benefit of a millennia's worth of experience."

Jōki pointed to the rumbling storm clouds above. He raised his voice as he posed a question to his subordinates.

"Is that not what our Father in Heaven asks of us?! To be at peace? To be safe? When my brothers return, we will usher in a New Age....but first, we must destroy the present one. This journey will require a great sacrifice, a sacrifice like none other." Jōki was now alluding to his pact with Jashin. "Many will die and many more will wish they had....but once the smoke clears and the waves wash over the ruins of this decadent civilization...something greater will be born. And you...my soldiers of destiny will have a place in the new Kingdom. The coming conflict will determine who will sit at my feet and who will sit at my right hand. Just as we re-order ninja society, we will re-order our Society." Jōki paced once more and moved a bit closer to the platform containing the top lieutenants. He eyed Nozomi directly. "Those of you who were first...may yet be last" He then looked at Raijin. "And those of you who were last....may soon be first" Jōki smirked and turned his back on the group. He walked all the way to the water's edge before turning back to the audience.

"Anyone who fears for their life or has a conscientious objection to my leadership...say so now." He gestured to the broken tools and bodies of his betrayers. "I would welcome constructive confrontation as opposed to what you see here. Lord Tsuchikage Nee-san Tetsudashi and Lord Kazekage Shin Kazehana thought they could stop me with machinery. I suppose they believed that since this was technology neither me nor my brothers designed, they could overcome my vision with brute force."  Jōki did not need to elaborate further on how that turned out. Honiko and Omi were the models of stoicism and though Menza could barely contain his mirth, he did not utter a peep. "Do not do as they did. I suggest you use your words and your wits. I have lost a friend today and I will not be as merciful to you as I was with these two." Jōki crossed his arms and closed with: "Think it over and take the opportunity to speak now if you have concerns. For when this war begins and Sage rulership is installed.....there will be no more 'discussions.'"

Whether this was truly an open invitation to verbally challenge Jōki was anybody's guess. He had never entertained debate in any of his previous interactions with anyone. Was he genuinely opening the floor for debate? Was he open to having his mind changed? Could he be persuaded after centuries of plotting? Or was this all a trap designed to lure out the disloyal and craven? There was only one way to find out.

Nozomi stood upon command from Honiko. Glowing at the compliment, she remained silent. She knew that Honiko was in tune to her thoughts, her feelings. That the woman could definitely tell that Nozomi was not in the slightest loyal to Hizashi and even showed a lack of respect for him intentionally. It wasn't that she was disrespecting of him, it was that she didn't care about him. He hadn't invested anything into her.

It was interesting. Nozomi had always been attracted to power. The reason that she'd originally followed Honiko was that she cared about the power that she could gain through following her. Honiko had been the most powerful person she'd ever met, more powerful than several Jounin, than any of the Kage at the time she'd met her. It was obvious to her from the get go. And Honiko had chosen her as a person of extreme interest. She'd invested time and energy into furthering Nozomi. For that, she'd earned Nozomi's undying loyalty. It was the first time she'd cared about something outside of just gaining more power to just be some weapon. Honiko had truly shown that she cared about Nozomi as more than a tool, and for that, she'd be the perfect weapon for her and her alone.

Honiko directed Nozomi's gaze away from Hizashi, telling her to look elsewhere, and Nozomi's eyes locked onto Honiko's. They kept gaze for a moment, Nozomi's demeanor softening as she let it continue until they both broke the gaze. She knew there was a time and a place. For now, she stayed her hand, content to enjoy Honiko's presence. The woman had moved next to her, symbolizing that they were no longer in a teacher and student relationship, but that Nozomi was every bit worthy of being Honiko's equal.

After that, things escalated in interest, depending on the situations. Others entered at different times, each reacting when they could, but the gathering increased. Raijin's was perhaps the most interesting entrance, given that he came bearing an artifact of some relevance. Nozomi nodded in a rare show of respect for Raijin. It was as she'd expect from someone trained by Honiko, and she was glad that he lived up to the expectations of someone of that station. She knew he wasn't weak ever since she'd witnessed him defeating Ryuko over Kariforunia, but they hadn't really interacted since Suna. It was a mixed bag. They were rivals, of a sort. She was the Snake Sage, he was the Dragon Sage. She was a Jinchuuriki, he was a Nature Clansmen. She wasn't religious, he'd taken to Jashinism with extreme gusto. The two of them were almost polar opposites as Honiko's students.

It wasn't that Nozomi was mad that he had found a weapon that made her feel anything. Nozomi noticed Honiko's attention drifting to Raijin, and Nozomi's inner rage began to boil. It wasn't the first time that he took any sort of spotlight off of her. When Honiko had offered Nozomi the chance to join the Society in the first place, Raijin had appeared out of nowhere and pledged himself to her. It was him taking Honiko's attention that really boiled her blood.

But she said nothing. She'd wait. Their time to come to blows would happen, in time.

Omi and Yen-li arrived, and while Nozomi knew Omi, she didn't know his protege. He gave his respect, and Nozomi offered him a rare courtesy, bowing slightly in a show of respect. Omi had been an incredibly asset to her in terms of running the organization. His ability to do the work that was beneath Nozomi but important to the continued success of the Society was instrumental to her.

"Always a pleasure, Omi-san."

Of course, her courtesy, much as it was, only extended so far. It was perhaps as nice as she could be. Her gaze momentarily shifted over Yen-li, but there wasn't much to say about the girl. A descendant of one of the disciples, she was likely skilled by virtue of birth, but Nozomi didn't really know that much about her. She'd sensed the arrival of Menza with her sensory abilities, along with one of his own lieutenants or something. As Menza approached, Nozomi drew out from the inside of her kimono a blood red scarf, unraveling it to reveal a scroll.

Tossing the scroll towards Menza, Nozomi had labeled it plainly: 'The rest of my payment, with some extra.'. While Nozomi only owed Menza a remaining 5.5 million Ryo, she'd given over the entirety of what she had on her. 5,821,475 in specific, and their debt was settled. She maintained a momentary gaze to see his reaction, but would shift it to the final new face. Some sort of scientist, but that was that.

With that, the group was gathered fully and Hizashi would finally speak, bringing Nozomi's attention back to him. As he spoke, she wrapped the scarf loosely around her neck, listening to his speech as it were. As he spoke, and aimed specific points at Nozomi, staring at her intentionally as he gave certain points of delivery, she settled her mind. The intentions were clear. He was calling on her to challenge him if she was going to. He knew.

Stepping forward, Nozomi kept her hands by her side in a neutral stance.

"I don't have anything against your vision. I recognize it's hypocritical to end war with massive bloodshed and wipe out any resistance, ultimately your plan will fail like everyone else's. People will rise up again and again against oppression. But really, I don't mind it."

Nozomi took another step forward. She really didn't. The general population was weak, Nozomi held no real ties to them. If Honiko commanded her, she'd annihilate every last man, woman, and child. It would be just another task. There would be some fun fights along the way and that's what she'd truly crave, but she didn't take issue with the war for war's sake.

"What I did realize, though, is that you've been in control of the world. You've had the power to challenge nations for ages, and win. You had Shin, Nee-san, your Bijuu, Nikuyo, Honiko, Menza, and the others in the Society. We owned several Bijuu. Our members were in charge of 3 of the 5 great nations even before I was recruited. Kumogakure and Konohagakure were the two not in the fold, and there were points where both were on the brink of collapse even without us tampering with anything."

"And you sat here and did nothing, content to let this world keep going. If it was as lost as you claimed and you had the means to fix it, you're to blame. If it's not a big enough deal to fix immediately and can keep on as it is, then you're a liar. Either way, one thing is clear. Your ultimate goa is not what you say it is. You want to rule the world and instate the Sages as the real rulers? Maybe. Is it any of us? You don't actually care. The only thing you care about is the other Disciples. I don't know if it's a power thing for you, but really I don't care."

"And it's obvious, isn't it? You don't care about peace. You sit here and let everyone else do your dirty work, claiming all the credit and glory for yourself, but the reality is, even in the Society, very few people even know who you are at all. You want to know why Shin and Nee-san betrayed you? You don't command respect. When you don't do anything, you don't earn any. Without Honiko, you'd be no closer to your goals. She's the true face of this organization, the real move maker. Everything you've accomplished, that's her accomplishment. If the Society is to truly rule with a Sageocracy, it won't be with you as its leader. You've had your time. Step down."

And with that, Nozomi's intentions were laid out clear. She really didn't care all that much about the war in the end. People died, those with power ruled. Those with enough power had no rulers unless subjugated. Nozomi was power, beholden only to herself, but she had loyalties that superceded everything. For Honiko, she'd move the world, placing her at the top. For Ryuko, she'd save her world, as the girl had tried to save her. Hizashi was an obstacle to both of those loyalties.

---
-0.5 Sensory technique
Stamina: 289/290

When Honiko answered him, it brought some satisfaction that in her return she had been pleased with his arrival with C. It was  obvious that he was the new Dragon Sage. Raijin definitely sensed the air change when he presented the Black Death before Hizashi. The crowd that had gathered there with the more important and powerful members recognized the artifact. Hizashi stunned said something to himself that Raijin managed to hear. It sounded like an ancient language beyond his understanding. He seemed pleased seeing that it was no fake, then gestured for Raijin to take his place among the others. He would go and stand near Nozomi and Honiko. The Lieutenants had all arrived. It was just as Raijin anticipated, they were all very strong. And it was now that the leader was to begin the meeting.

His speech was informative to the grand scheme of their overall goal. Also revealing his true name and history here on Earth. This was all surprising news to Raijin who found himself fascinated. There was more to all of this than meets the eye. However the later half of his speech seemed to indicate dissention among the ranks. Primarily aimed at Nozomi. She had always had an air of disobedience when it came to others even Hizashi. The only one she respected was Honiko to that extent. What came next after Joki finished would spice things up.

The message wasn't lost on Nozomi. It was time for her to speak her mind, and she did just that. Her response was filled with absolute disrespect. Raijin had always found her goals to be different from the Societies original meaning. He had wanted to find the rest of the artifacts. She had her own goals, and now it was apparent why. In her direct defiance against Joki. She had signed her own death warrant. Baysuhi smiled maniacally. He couldn't have ever hoped for a better situation. This would most certainly end terribly. And Raijin waited anxiously for Joki to command them if he needed.

Yen-Li was relieved when Hizashi simply dismissed her. Of all of the possible outcomes of having to interact with Hizashi, that was probably the best one. She ignored the disrespectful manner in which he dismissed her, she didn’t see the point in taking that bait, it hadn’t exactly gone well the first time. Without a word, Yen-Li would turn and walk over to stand beside Omi, though she stood just a hairsbreadth ahead of him - a subconscious protective stance. She was not looking to have a repeat of her arrival, and this time she wasn’t going to be blindsided.

When Menza arrived, she did her best to appear calm and polite, much like Omi did. What she really wanted to do was to get as far away from the mad scientist as possible, but that was unlikely to go unnoticed. And in order to survive she needed to go unnoticed. She would nod to everyone as she was introduced, even Yuyo, though she found it more difficult to hide her discomfort as she realized that the reason Menza’s student was here was because of their conversation earlier. She didn’t care for the idea of being ‘improved’, she did not exactly understand what the man meant, but she was sure that it wasn’t good considering his connection to Menza.

With all of them assembled it seemed time for Hizashi to address the group of them. There were many more people than she had been expecting, all spread between multiple platforms. The storm clouds that had heralded her arrival still rumbled and crept further in as Hizashi spoke of the future. She listened as he revealed that he was a millennia old, that his name was not Hizashi but rather it was Jōki and he was one of the Five Disciples taught by Hagoromo the Rikudō Sennin. It was a lot to take in, though it did not strike Yen-Li as overly surprising somehow. She had seen first hand the power that he wielded, he could have told her that he was the great Sage himself and she would have found that believable. The true shock value of his declarations were mostly lost on Yen-Li, being that she had only recently been privy to the inner workings of the Society and before then had known little about it.

When Jōki attributed the storm to Jashin, Yen-Li thought nothing of it being as she still didn’t know that it was her that summoned the storms. If she was aware however, it would have been interesting to note that she could have caught the mighty Hizashi in a lie. While she had still never been told that these oddly timed storms were a direct result of her emotional state, Hizashi had to know even from the brief meeting that they’d had. And if not a lie, it was at the very least clear religious zealotry that compelled him to twist a perfectly explainable weather phenomenon into something that could be used to back up his claims. Alas, she did not know, and so she stayed silent.

The part that was mildly shocking was the method that Jōki presented for reordering the world. It still rang true with her, owing to Omi’s influence, but destroying the world was still a bit of a shock. It wasn’t something people normally said. Out loud anyway. She could see how much distress the world was in; the wars and suffering of people, the unfairness of those with power using it to oppress those without. She couldn’t imagine that had been the original intention of granting the people of the world the ability to wield chakra. And so as much as she did not like the man himself, she would nod sagely in agreement with his words. This was the Destiny that she believed Omi had spoken of, a new world, a fresh start. Finally she would have the opportunity to affect change in a world beset with turmoil.

He did not stop there however, and went on to open up the floor to any dissenting opinions. That gave her pause, she didn’t believe for a second that he would take any complaints seriously. He didn’t seem the type. A thousand years was a long time to marry an idea, and it was unlikely that anything anyone present said would alter his chosen course. So she continued to keep her peace. Partly out of fear, she did not want to run the risk of drawing undue attention to either herself or Omi. She couldn’t risk his life again. She hated Hizashi for what he had done to Omi, but she didn’t need to voice it. Others that were present however did.

Nozomi went off on him.

She did not know the woman, only knew her by reputation, but she became suddenly more fearful as the blonde woman lashed out with accusations of weakness and lies. The storm overhead roared in response, lightning crashing nearby as the clouds that had been circling the island now closed over them entirely. Subconsciously she took a half step back, bringing herself closer to her protector. Unfortunately, Nozomi’s words did not sit right with Yen-Li - another product of the elaborate genjutsu she was under. She had not been specifically directed, only made to view the Society and thereby Hizashi’s goals in a positive light. Nozomi wasn’t incorrect exactly, but Yen-Li didn’t see it. She couldn’t see it.

Yen-Li waited anxiously for a response from Jōki, fearful of the inevitable bloody outcome of his wrath.

Yuyo would listen quietly as he tilted his head. Observing each of them in turn as he considered wonderful ways he could mold them into something more efficient. Menza would be the first for anything beneficial or at least what Menza viewed as beneficial. Outside of his own body of course. The goal wasn't exactly perfection but more of an evolution. They were all strong candidates for his experiments though his attention was drawn to the storm above briefly. It was an eyesore. How it cracked and thundered above. Casting its brief light without direction or purpose. If he could harness it...well its chakra seemed...he would let his eyes fall on the woman causing it as he smiled and seemed almost cheerful. So she naturally had a connection to this storm. He would tilt his head as he contemplated how to focus it. To force more control over it within her. Well she wasn't his plaything yet to try that on and the one with her seemed to be frightening in his own right. So he would redirect his attention away from the specimen. Let that be for a time when they became his. When they would be bound to his table and be molded to their highest evolution.

However the speech would continue and his direction would be directed to the center point of it all. If he had lived so long than those wounds. Yuyo's eyes would settle on the wounds. Such a lifetime was not possible without some sort of regeneration factor. His body had to be capable of healing such minor damage. His offer to open the table to debate seemed to be more of a lure though. It didn't sound right for someone with goals like destroying and rebuilding the world to simply offer a nice and polite debate. Those unhealed wounds were likely on purpose. A bluff to show mortality. That was the most likely solution. But who would take such bait? everyone else seemed to remain silent except for one who stepped forward. Her chakra was potent and her body...oh she was built so perfectly he could feel himself becoming aroused. If she were ever to be on his table he could make a monster fitting of myths and legends. Oh such a sweet specimen would be the peak of his art. Yet she spoke out so harshly that Yuyo despite the social cues would chuckle. Unable to help himself before running a hand up through his long hair and brushing it back out of his face.

By all means he should fear her. He should see how capable she was in comparison to him and stare at the ground in silence. Yet he couldn't help that noise. Instead he would smile and shrug at any attention brought his way. Speaking in return to her accusations and demands. "Resources and influence changes over decades. Opportunities come and go. As he is so aged and wise in his years survival has clearly been a part of his everyday life. One doesn't survive so long without the power to back it up. Aside from that I figure humans are more like stray dogs. Pitiful creatures but you can't help but adore them and hope they can understand their training. Yet if a dog lashes out against its owner or is particularly aggressive you have to stop pitying them. You put them down. You claim our grand leader incapable and dishonest? It's like a child fresh out of diapers yelling ' my daddy can beat your daddy'. Oh my apologies for interrupting. My tongue gets away from me sometimes."

Menza didn't expect his fellow descendants to appreciate the genius that was Yuyo. He wouldn't have selected the artistic mutilator as his protege if he thought that they'd get along with him. Their disrespect was laughed off and he was glad to see that Yuyo was not affected by their rudeness. He did click his tongue in surprise when Nozomi paid him the remaining ryo in full. Menza deftly caught the scroll, read the note and raised it to his ear. He shook it about as if he was somehow "listening" to its contents. Of course, it was possible to hear what was inside a Fuuinjutsu seal. Wasn't it? Menza giggled and offered a simple "Thank you" He could tell that Honiko was curious as to what the money was for, but with the conference about to begin, he knew she wouldn't press the subject at the moment. With the introductions complete, the group turned towards Jōki who by now, had called the meeting to order.

Honiko and Omi both stood at attention as Jōki began his sermon. The ancient warrior was not one for such long and elaborate speeches. It was a rarity to see him so worked up that he had given himself to pontification. If there was any doubt as to whether this was the day of reckoning, then the gusto with which Jōki spoke erased it. Honiko, usually the model of discipline and stoicism, found herself nodding. It was the one release she allowed herself, for her soul was moved by her master's words. Jōki would not tolerant cheering or any other outward expression of jubilee. None of the lieutenants even attempted it. However, the truest of believers burned with loyalty and devotion. Honiko could feel each and every one of them and it wasn't long before her chakra swelled to matched theirs. In silence, she made her fanatical obedience known. In contrast, Omi's body language was solid and his eyes without emotion, yet underneath it all he trembled. For how many years had he dreaded this day? Menza had an amused smirk on his face and when Jōki gave what he perceived as a shout-out to him, he examined his fingernails in mock satisfaction.

Jōki closed his revelation by posing a challenge to the members of the organization. Those who wished to question his leadership were provided an open forum to do so.

No fool would dare.
It would be suicide.
Maybe this time he'll leave me something more than halves and quarters

Each of them dismissed the notion that Jōki's invitation should be taken seriously. All of them knew that fighting him was hopeless. If you had been invited to this meeting then you knew enough to be told the truth. And more importantly, you were wise enough to recognize it when it was being spoken to you. Even when Hagoromo walked the Earth, the prospect of fighting his students was considered unthinkable to even the greatest of warriors. If Jōki did not cut a heckler down, then Honiko would do it herself once the meeting was over. She detected no treason from anyone present except one. The only person she trusted enough not to read. However, when Honiko's eyes settled on Nozomi's form, her years of battle instincts told her what her sensory did not.

No.

Honiko's hand shot out like a viper and her fingers curled around Nozomi's forearm. She applied Chakra Enhanced Strength and used it to boost her physical might to its absolute limit. The intention was to arrest the blonde's movement and keep her from stepping forward as planned. If Nozomi turned around then Honiko's eyes would communicate everything. Disrespect was one thing, but this was a bridge too far. This was a line that not even Honiko could bring her student back from. She had mistakenly believed that Nozomi's devotion to her would never permit her to challenge Jōki. Something must have happened while she was gone to have caused this change. Something must have been said to her. She pleaded with Nozomi using her eyes. She willed the girl to shut up and step back.

It would be the Himitsu's final opportunity to re-consider her current course of action.

Honiko could not hold Nozomi forever though. The moment Jōki made eye contact with her, she'd have no choice but to release her grip. She had no right to prevent Nozomi from speaking and if she continued, then she herself would be rebelling against her sensei. Alternatively, if Nozomi broke away from Honiko's grasp then she would still let her go. She knew her Little Dragon. She was every bit as stubborn as she was powerful. If she wanted to do this then no amount of CES would keep stop her. In a heartbeat, the joy of the moment was spoiled. Honiko's stoicism cracked and she watched with hurt in her eyes as her disciple threatened to undo everything they had worked so hard to build.

Nozomi let loose on the Water Disciple. She accused him of stalling, of either being either an incompetent or a liar. She was relentless in her criticism of his leadership. Everyone looked on in horror as Nozomi publicly crucified the man who had just declared himself to be one of Hagoromo's chosen. Jōki's reaction was just as cold and inexpressive as Nozomi's. The young woman's charges were sensible arguments. In fact, they were pretty irrefutable.....at least to someone who lacked the perspective of a millenia of violence. Jōki allowed the cub to prattle but when she drew Honiko's name into her treason, his demeanor shifted.

He no longer bore a look of distant amusement. For a split second, a dark rage clouded his features. It was now obvious to everyone why the Society's best fighter was demanding his resignation. It wasn't just that she thought him to be a laggard, it was that she thought Honiko would make a better ruler. When the words were uttered, it took all of Honiko's will not to hurl herself at Nozomi and beat her down. To put her on a pedestal above Jōki was a grave insult to her existence. She exhaled through her nose and a cloud of steam rose. Honiko was no longer the Dragon Sage, but her fire burned like one. She loved Nozomi, but for the time being, that love could not quench her anger. Honiko took a step forward and Jōki held up a single hand. He was about to reply when Menza's minion spoke up.

In truth, Jōki had hardly noticed the ragdoll. The only reason Yuyo had not been silenced instantly was because he was probably one of the last people that he expected to interrupt him. Jōki looked at the newly minted apprentice as if he was a rock that had started speaking. He had gotten to the portion about "pitiful creatures" when Menza would aim to put a hand on his shoulder. If he continued more than a word or two after that, Menza would try to run a line of chakra through his neck and into his trachea temporarily paralyzing his vocal chords with the Chakra Scalpel Technique. Menza was enjoying this play and he did not want it to be interrupted. The only downside to getting a new puppy was that sometimes it got a bit too excited and yapped out of turn. Fortunately, Menza was a merciful master and he would not hold it against Yuyo. This time.

With the chap muzzled, Jōki turned to answering Nozomi. The immortal's answer was actually very closely aligned with what Yuyo had started out with. Jōki's perspective on what built enduring rule was not something that his student's student could understand. She simply had not been alive long enough to appreciate the true complexities of ninja government. Jōki looked his challenger in the eye and spoke with the gentle tone of a loving father:

"I'm sure you might think yourself clever Nozomi but your perspective is flawed. Limited. I'll enlighten you all the same." Jōki gestured to the horizon as if pointing to the lands outside of the isles. "The present governments of the world and every government since my brothers' passing were always meant to be temporary. At best an opportunity to prove me wrong and demonstrate that the world was worthy of living up to my sensei's dream on its own. At worst, an experiment to see how far the world was capable of falling without my direct influence. Either way you look at it, century after century, I've seen nothing but disappointment. Even when I controlled every piece on the board, I allowed the farce to continue....it cost me nothing and ultimately it just proved the dysfunction of those who have strayed from Rikudō Sennin's teachings. The only way to right the wrongs of this world....the only way to break the cycle of oppression and resistance as you call it....is to return ninja society to its founding and the only people who can do that are those who founded it."

Jōki lifted his damaged arm for all to see. He now made obvious what had previously been stated only by implication.

"I am not omnipotent nor am I omniscient...although to you I may as well be. I've seen many a regime collapse under the hubris of its leadership. Those who thought they could never be defeated. I harbor no such illusions...that's why I swore to never make my move until I had my brothers at my back. Through my loyal servants I've kept the only tools capable of stopping us dispersed and in the hands of opposing factions. This world will be ours and only because of generations of planning and forethought. You see over the course of 1,000 years I've learned the one thing that even Honiko could not teach you: Patience."

Jōki looked towards the former Dragon Sage and the expression of wroth he had shown earlier resurfaced.

"As for your call to step down....I cannot help but wonder if your lack of faith is a product of arrogance....or a personal failing on the part of your teacher. An inability to teach what she had learned first-hand. I suspect a mixture of both."

Jōki fell silent and allowed the rumble of the clouds to thunder over the conference. Aside from the uproarious heavens, the area was quiet. Honiko who was burning with shame was now racking her brain for a way to try and diffuse the coming conflict. The tone in her sensei's voice told her that anything she tried to do from this point on would only make the situation worse.

"You've been so many places and have met so many people but you see so little and know even less. Without me, you'd be nothing. I plucked you from that degenerate nation and gave you a purpose. Gave you power. I made you Nozomi. Just as I made Honiko. Without you even knowing it, I've given you a reason to live. And what is given can be taken away..." Jōki raised his head a quarter of an inch. "I will not step down. And Honiko will remain where she belongs...at my feet. I've given you a platform to express your concerns and yet all I hear is the chatter of an ignorant child." Jōki looked to the rest of his lieutenants before asking: "I take it no one else shares your sentiment....?" He allowed for any other naysays to step forth. It was only fair he give the rest a chance to air their grievances or join in Nozomi's demands. For if they did or did not, his final words would be the same.

"Well then, if you remain unconvinced then please....step down from that platform and allow me to command your respect."

Nozomi felt Honiko's grip on her arm as she had stepped forward. She was one of the few people that could get away with laying a finger on her without permission. Anyone else and Nozomi would have immediately snapped back at. As it was, instinct had kicked in, Nozomi's body instantly flooding itself with it's full strength to resist the grip.

Turning to stare at Honiko, Nozomi's eyes lit up with a defiance that she rarely showed. It wasn't like she was against Honiko. If anything, she was bound by her actions because she believed it the best for Honiko. The woman would never go against Hizashi, even to her detriment, so it fell on Nozomi's shoulders to be the one to bear that load. Honiko had been the true leader of the Society, not this pretender of a Disciple.

Isobu tensed slightly behind Nozomi, unsure of whether to intervene or not. He knew how much Nozomi cared for Honiko and could easily see her retaliate should he try and intercede, but at the same time, he was loyal to his host and her mission. She'd given him a body to experience the world outside of her. He remained mostly motionless, switching his gaze back to Hizashi to see how he was responding to Nozomi's stepping forward.

Nozomi eventually broke free of Honiko's grasp and continued forward, delivering her speech. Yuyo was the first to respond, but Menza sought to cut him off fairly quickly. Nozomi spared a fleeting flick of her eyes in his direction to acknowledge him, but was more focused on Hizashi's response. She knew it would likely get bloody pretty soon, and she'd poked the proverbial bear. Yuyo was, although potentially a problem, a lesser one than Hizashi.

Hizashi's response was more measured than she'd have expected. The fact that he even entertained her response was interesting to be sure. The man was all about his theatrics, as Nozomi had guessed. He cared about appearances and wanted to project power. The difference between he and Nozomi was that she didn't really need to grand stand to show her power. She just was, and backed up with actions.

When he said that she must think herself clever, Nozomi simply shook her head. That wasn't true, she wasn't that smart and she knew it. However, Isobu was, and she bounced her decisions off of him often enough because she knew he was old and worldly, full of knowledge.

Before he'd even finished speaking Nozomi had already made her way off the platform, activating her Sage Mode as she did so. She wasn't naive enough to believe that she could take him without using it. Still, she was confident with her skills. She rarely showed the form, and it was perhaps the first time that anyone present saw her transform. People with the ability to master any form of Sage Mode were rare, but Nozomi was one of the rarest Kunoichi. Her body was perfectly capable of mastering it, just as she'd been a perfect vessel for Isobu.

She spoke as she walked. "You didn't make me. Honiko did that. You didn't give me power, I worked for it and trained. I'm a Sage on my own merits. I'm strong enough to host, beat, and master Isobu."

Her body slimmed slightly, arms and legs thinning out, her face growing more gaunt. Her eyes shifted slightly, the black pupil turning into a vertical slit, the blue green shade of her eyes turning into a bright gold. All of the color from her skin had bleached out, her hair's blonde washing into a white gray as well. Her cheeks grew an almost imperceptible slit that would allow her to open her jaw impossibly wide.

The black of her kimono and the blood red of the scarf contrasted the particular lack of color on her.

Isobu moved to step forward as well, ready to join Nozomi, but she shot him a look that froze him in place. It was a look he hadn't seen from her before, but the message was clear. Despite her asking him to come, she didn't want his help. Something had changed, she was more sure of herself. Was it Hizashi's wound? Was it the words he used, the way he looked down upon her? A mixture of the two? He couldn't be sure, but he knew she wouldn't request aid. If anyone else stepped down towards them, she might accept them, but Isobu was her direct charge. For now, he would simply watch.

As Nozomi stood in place, she grew deathly still. Defaulting to gathering Nature Chakra again, always keeping herself topped off in moments that she wasn't doing anything. She'd wait for Hizashi to step down as well, and anyone else who had decided to. She didn't really care if anyone did or didn't, but she'd wait all the same. The biggest thing was waiting for Hizashi to join her. To show her how he 'commanded respect'.

A surge of excitement blew through her body. Something she hadn't felt since her fight with Shimiko. Nothing had truly excited her as much as that fight. She'd had moments she thought could reach those heights, but nothing did, often leaving her disappointed. However, she didn't think Hizashi would. If he was a disappointment, then there truly was no combat that could thrill her anymore.
--
-5 Serpentine Physiology UA (+1 tier Str)
-0.5 Sensory

Stamina: 283.5/290

Sage Mode activated
Nature Chakra: 130/130

Strength: B -> A [Serpentine Physiology] -> S [SM]
Constitution: A -> S [SM]
Stamina: A+
Speed: A -> S [SM]
Coordination: A -> S [SM]
Intelligence: D
Perception: A -> S [SM]

Watching the entire exchange was simply the greatest piece of theater he had ever attended. There was too much tension and drama between these two individuals. Joki and Nozomi had sparred with words if everything had been interpreted right. A newcomer who seemed to be one of Menza's apprentice, spoke out of turn. Which further seemed to irk Joki as his look to Menza would silence the young one. At the same time Honiko had reacted exactly how he thought. Nozomi had insulted her master right in front of her and it was nothing short of slap in the face. Her hands snapped up, reaching around Nozo's forearm. But the young rebellious soul stood her ground and stared deep at Honiko before breaking away.

If anything Nozomi's motive was simple. She didn't have a complex way of thinking that was never her thing. She would answer the call against Joki. Moving past them she made her way to the platform. Raijin looked onwards as he as was about to witness history. He certainly would not fair a chance against Nozomi or Hizashi's earlier alias. But he would bear witness to a another rare clash between the strongest ninja in the land. Raijin waited for Joki to finally make his way down there. As Nozomi's activated her Sage Mode. The Great Snake Sage, an intimidating form to anyone. This was his first time seeing it. Though Raijin kept an eye on Isobu as well. If he joined in then there was no telling what would happen. Which Bayushi hoped that he would do.

To put it mildly, Yen-Li was terrified. Outwardly she didn’t show it, she mimicked the cool stoicism of her Master Omi perfectly, but inwardly she felt her fear rise to new heights as the situation became more tense. Above them all the thunder rumbled in protest of the danger that Yen-Li feared, and the small dark haired woman shifted her weight slightly, moving a mere millimeter closer to her protector.

Yen-Li watched as Honiko tried to stop Nozomi from stepping forward and speaking out and Yen-Li felt her heart lurch in her chest at the quick scene. She imagined what would happen if she were in Nozomi’s place and Omi was in Honiko’s, and in that moment she feared for Honiko. Yen-Li had no reason to believe that Hizashi - Joki - treated any of the descendants any differently from what she had seen and experienced herself. If she were to speak out against Joki she knew what would happen. Joki would finish his lesson, drown Omi and make her watch. And then of course would force her to bury him as a final ‘fuck you’ to whatever sanity she had managed to retain during the ordeal. The long and short of it was that he would make them both suffer if she dared challenge Joki. And so now she worried for Honiko as well.

She heard Menza’s student speak up after Nozomi tore Joki down, and she felt the same sickening thud of fear in her chest. She was less concerned for the fate of Menza, but being that she was a good person she didn’t wish ill on the androgynous doctor - even if he scared the crap out of her. Yuyo was silenced fairly quickly and Yen-Li noticed that apparently not all the Descendants were equal in that respect, and a picture began to form in her mind. A picture of a man beset by the cruelty of one who believed themselves a god, of a man that stayed quiet and acquiesced not just out of respect or loyalty, but out of fear. When they had first met Hizashi she had noted Omi’s anxiousness and wrongly attributed it to projecting her own feelings onto Omi. Now the pieces were falling into place and she felt her heart break as she looked over towards Joki.

She wanted to look towards Omi, but she didn’t dare.

She remembered the way Hizashi had spoken to Omi, the way he’d looked at him. It was different than how he looked at Honiko or Menza. It was cruel. She remembered the abject terror in Omi’s eyes as he realized that Hizashi intended to murder him. . . as he tried to murder him. Yenn would have seen it instantly, Yen-Li took a while to catch on. In a strange way, ridding Yenn of her memories of prior abuse had actually protected Omi. If she’d had all those memories, she wouldn’t have stopped until Hizashi was dead and Omi was free. . . or she was dead. She probably wouldn’t have set foot on the island and tried to convince Omi that he could be free of someone like Joki, that he just had to come with her and she would keep him safe. She wouldn’t have been able to keep him safe, but she would have died trying. They both would have.

Without the ability to look to her saviour and protector, the broken widow with no memory of such shed a single tear as she watched Nozomi transform to challenge Joki. The tear was followed by another, silent and filled with pain, and then thousands as the skies opened and her grief as raindrops spread over them all. She was fairly certain she knew how this was going to end. Nozomi might even hurt Joki, but in the end it wouldn’t matter. Willing or not, they were all trapped now. You either did as Joki commanded and made yourself useful, or he commanded your respect.

Yen-Li stood in the rain, lightning crashing overhead as the Snake Sage stood off against the oldest living man. She didn’t move a muscle, not to wipe away tears or rain, she just stood witness and prayed to every god and spirit imaginable that Joki’s attention did not sweep towards her beloved Saviour. If it did, she would die as well, as she would be unable to stop herself from defending him.

There it was. The defiance. The stubborn willpower that had made Nozomi such an effective acolyte. Nozomi's insubordination wasn't malicious. Honiko could tell that right away without even looking into her soul. Behind those eyes was a fierce devotion. A desire to serve that knew no boundaries, not even self-preservation. She's doing this for me...

When Nozomi broke free of Honiko's grasp, the Cosmic Sage did not interrupt her. It was pointless. She could tell by looking at her own sensei that he would not tolerate any interference. Honiko's heart continued to twist with anxiety as she realized the only way out of this scenario was for Nozomi to fight. If she was fortunate, Jōki would be feeling merciful. If she was not, then Honiko's own loyalty would soon be tested. Even before Jōki had finished his lengthy reply, Nozomi was already moving towards him. As she walked, she transitioned into the Snake Sage form.

完璧。完璧。

Nozomi's control over the Sage Arts were on par with Honiko's. The fact that she was able to maintain such exquisite control over natural energy despite being a jinchurikki was only further evidence of her talent. Will I ever find another like her? Where did I go wrong? How could I have prevented this? The hubris of being so powerful had gotten to Nozomi and now Honiko was convinced it would be her downfall. Honiko wanted to scream. She wanted to cry even, but unlike Yen-Li had excised visible emotion from her programming. She watched stone-faced as the drama unfolded. She was aware that Yen-Li was crying and she could have slapped the descendant for making such a dishonorable scene in front of the organization. Her eyes shifted to the Custodian who recognized her ire. Omi decided to take a chance. Hoping that the Master's attention was squarely focused on Nozomi, he took Yen-Li's hand in his own and squeezed. He could not embrace her, but he was willing to risk it all just to comfort her. Weakness at a time like this was not acceptable and it was better for him to be struck down than her. Omi faced forwards and did not look at his charge but he was there. He'd always be there.

Jōki had noticed. He always did. But he let it slide due to his personal rule of allowing only one amusement at a time. Nozomi rejected his claim to her success. She argued that she stood on her own two and that he had no hand in it all. The Water Disciple shook his head and chastised himself. He had never allowed his cool to be broken before but the idea that Hihoni's line could train someone so ignorant was an irritation that could vex even the calmest of waters. Like Nozomi, he moved to face her on the field of battle. The rest of the Society would remain on the platforms above, looking down as if it were a stadium while the two combatants would find themselves in the center of a valley. The size of it was about 60 meters and on the edge of it was a cliff below which lay the waters of Mizu no Kuni. Wave after wave crashed against the rocks but the sound of the impact was drowned out by the rumble occurring in the heavens.

Jōki kept walking until he was 20 meters away from Nozomi. The blonde was excited. The world had offered so few challenges and now she'd have the opportunity to face off against one of the Sage's finest. Jōki for his part had not seriously fought anyone in quite some time, far longer than the Himitsu standing before him. Jōki looked over to Menza and nodded. The mad scientist raised his eyebrows in surprise and shrugged.

So he's using it for this fight then? A bitter insult to the dead. Menza smirked. He was always game to piss on Nee-san's memory. Menza began a long and complex string of handseals. At first glance, one might think he intended to join the fight but he remained right where he was. The only action he took was to bend his knees and slam both of hands on the ground. He looked up with a smirk and through the strands of his silky black hair, he'd look at the statuesque kunoichi.

"You're in for it now my love." he muttered under his breath.

The island shook. Violently at first but soon it subsided as the tectonic movements focused on one place in particular. The range of the shaking continued to shrink until it reached its epicenter. It wasn't Nozomi, but rather Jōki, or more specifically, the ground in front of him. The battlefield on which they stood was littered with puddles, craters, and the remains of crushed metal. Most of which had been melted down but there remained a few here and there. The puddle in front of Jōki bubbled and then turned black. As if someone had opened a window into hell, a hush fell upon the valley. Even the sounds of the thunder became muted as a psychological fog of terror invaded the area. Everyone standing on the Isle of Whispers at present had been blessed so as not to be disturbed by the maddening effects of Dorīmukirā. However, now that it was being summoned directly on site, those of lesser psychic constitutions would be seized with fear. It wasn't enough to break a mind but it was enough to give them a taste of what Nozomi had wrought on herself.

The hilt of a pure white katana emerged from the miniature pond. The katana rose and was followed by a pulsating stone which ripped the reservoir open as it reached up to the Disciple's waist. The swirl of dark energy around the stone appeared to be coming from the sword itself. The blade was embedded into the rock and it was the source of the Isle's effects. For centuries it had been known as the "forbidden island" and soon the world would know why. Jōki shut his eyes and formed the Tiger seal. For a split-second, he was as still as a standing pool. The combatants were mirror images of each other. Each locked in focus as they drew the power of the natural world into themselves. When Jōki re-opened his eyes, they were a brilliant cyan. He recalled a poem often-recited by his tribe. It was usually said when an elder kinsman was facing off against a younger in an important battle. One that was likely to result in death.

"Blessed be the oceans, for your sake....both fish and fruit it shall bring forth for you. For out of the water you were taken, for the water you are.....And to the water you shall return."

Jōki decided it sounded far more elegant in his native tongue but it was still the best thing Nozomi could ever hope to hear before she died. The man wrapped his right hand around the hilt of the katana and pulled it from the stone in one fluid motion. When the Dreamkiller came free, the muted nightmare subsided and then evaporated. The Isle of Whispers was cursed no more. Jōki twirled the katana once before gripping it with his other hand and raising it above his head in the Ko Gasumi style. He could make the first move but he was rather old-fashioned.

"Ladies first" he offered politely. But if Nozomi declined, then he'd oblige.

Nozomi internally smiled, the excitement boiling in her blood. As Joki was drawing the sword, Nozomi continued on gathering natural chakra, keeping herself topped off until the fight began at its earnest. The rain coming from the storm cooling her down. She could fight at her peak for ages. Would the Disciple be able to match her long term? She knew that maximum effort with minimal wasted energy often resulted in a win. Would that work against Joki? Should she go all out from the onset and blow through everything all at once, or should she conserve and outlast?

It was a quick decision. Not all out, but higher energy exertion than usual. Activating her Kata, Nozomi's form changed even further than it had before. Her wet hair spiked up, surrounded by nature energy, giving it a flame-like appearance. Part of her face developed a black-scaled pattern covering her forehead, with the beginnings of a horn appearing from her forehead. A barely visible cyan aura surrounded her, and three invisible snakes curled around Nozomi's waist and arms.

Forming a single hand seal, the snake seal, Nozomi's chakra leaked out into the world, expanding the influence of her threat threshold. A mixture of Sage Chakra, normal Chakra, and a technique that she had mastered far more than any person in the world had. The rain around them was a natural source of water that for her, was a weapon that she could utilize. In the Land of Water, in the rain, Nozomi was at her strongest. Much more than a normal sage enhanced Water Heaven's Convergence, Nozomi had made a specific variant that utilized more power and speed than the normal technique would.

At the same time as she finished her seal, Nozomi let Isobu's influence shift her body, dropping into the Arhat Fist stance as she got ready to launch forward. A dark black-red energy surrounded her, covering her body in the V2 dense chakra of Isobu, 3 tails growing out of her lower back as she became a weird mixture of Sage and Jinchuuriki. She mostly did it as a layer of defense, but it granted some fine protections for sure, additional limbs, and could burn whatever was touching it.

With the setup complete, Nozomi's Sage Art: Water Heaven's Convergence took hold. Rain around her lifted away, leaving her in a bubble of air, but she also condensed the water around Joki inward towards his body, attempting to crush him with the rain around his body, or at the very least capture him and immobilize him if he was incredibly durable by putting all the pressure on his body, leaving the head and neck exposed if she did so. One of the usual drawbacks of Water Heaven's Convergence is that you need to pull moisture out of the earth around you, often needing to start making water close to the user. If there was a natural source of water though, such as in the middle of a storm, she could use any water in the vicinity. And when it was raining, the water was everywhere.  

With her Sage enhancement though, she could push much more pressure on someone than most could handle. Either way, Nozomi bolted toward Joki, purple electricity building up in her hand and she thrust her hand towards his throat to crush his windpipe and rip it out. Between the burn of her V2 cloak, the sheer power of her in her Sage Mode, and the massive power of Purple Electricity, Nozomi doubted anyone could survive a straight hit from that open.


----

Old Stamina: 283.5/290
-1 Arhat Fist [Taijutsu cost reduction]
-5  Sage Art: WHC [Suiton Reduction/ Half Ninjutsu Cost]
-20 Purple Electricity [Raiton cost reduction]
-0.5 Sensory active (Sensing Nature Chakra and Normal with SM)
New Stamina: 257/290

Sage Mode activated
Old Nature Chakra: 130/130
-5 SM
-5 Kata
-5 SA: WHC [Suiton Reduction/ Half Senjutsu Cost]
New Nature Chakra: 115/130

Jutsu used:

Spoiler:

Strength: B -> A [Serpentine Physiology] -> S [SM] -> S++ [Arhat Style]
Constitution: A -> S [SM]
Stamina: A+
Speed: A -> S [SM] -> S++ [Kata]
Coordination: A -> S [SM] -> S++ [Kata]
Intelligence: D
Perception: A -> S [SM]

She's enjoying this....she's actually enjoying this....

Joki considered it proof of the sad state of affairs that the shinobi world found itself in. When one of its greatest warriors was actually excited to fight him (a suicidal endeavor) then it could only mean that it had failed to produce a meaningful challenge to her. If they could not match her they had no hope against him. Jōki could sense the manifestation of Sage energy around her and he could pinpoint the precise locations of her Snake appendages. He had introduced Honiko to the world of the Hebi and he had mastered the Senjutsu while the world was still learning the basics of the shinobi art.

Speaking of the basics, his cyan eyes raised in surprise as he realized what Nozomi intended to do. She was conjuring the rain towards him. The technique that she was deplying was immediately recognized. And rightfully so, he credited himself as its creator. Jōki did not bother moving a muscle in response. Instead, he activated Kirisame. The moment the water moved, the sealless technique cancelled its effect. It was already raining and so it was merely a matter of layering his chakra into the already condescended clouds. The rain would not effect Nozomi's cloak. The fact that she could slip into V2 so easily was a demonstration of her control over Isobu. Another notch in her belt. The purple electricity would likewise melt away under the oppression of Kirisame. The only action that would engender a physical response from the eternally calm Water Sage was her lunge towards him. He knew he could not pierce the the power of the cloak so the only option would be to break it through Ninjutsu. For now though, he wanted to test the kunoichi's skill and so he opted to allow it to remain. He conjured a thick mist and artfully strafed to the left to avoid any forward attack.

Jōki would then leap back another 20 meters giving additional space between himself and the heavily cloaked Nozomi but as he did so a perfect doppelganger was left in his wake 10 meters in front of him and to the left of Nozomi. The construct wielded a sword much like the original and it chest swelled with water before expelling a blast of Suiton. Not enough to damage the cloak but enough to distract her while the original observed under the cover of the thick mist.


----------------------------------
-1 Tier Suiton Techniques [Ninjutsu Affinity]

Active
Water Sage Mode + Kata: 5 SP
Sensory: 0.5 CP
Kirisame: 10 CP [Split w/ Sage Pool]
Water Release: Marine Battle Formation Technique: 2.5 CP [Split w/ Sage Pool]
Hidden Mist:
???


Sage Pool: 112.5/130
Stamina: 307.5/320


Stats
• Strength: C -> B [SM]
• Constitution: C -B [SM]
• Stamina: A -> A++ [Cloak]
• Speed: A [SM] - > S -> S++ [Kata]
• Coordination: A [SM] -> S++ [Kata]
• Intelligence: S
• Perception: S -> X [SM]

Techniques:

Nozomi was a little confused when her techniques fizzled out, but she could sense some of the energy from Hizashi in the air. Ninjutsu wasn't going to work,  he was doing something to mess with it. That was fine by her, it just meant that she'd need to prove herself through martial skill rather than using conventional means. Unfortunately, it appeared that he wasn't limited in such a manner, she could sense a build up of energy from the clone.

At least her sensory still worked perfectly. It helped her identify the real Hizashi's location. He would be the one to stay back and hide, letting the clone do the work. Besides that, the clone wasn't using Sage Mode, it was strange. It made it evident enough that it wasn't him.

Slamming a foot into the ground as Joki's clone was manipulating some chakra in that momentary lapse between creation, Nozomi made the ground around them explode from the sheer force of her strike. The idea was to shake the area, but also use the power of the earthquake to possibly pop the clone, while also giving some interference with their footing, and creating rubble in the area around her that would intercept the water drill if it still went off.

Even if it did land a strike on her, it wouldn't matter too much. The drill was a piercing attack that wouldn't do much against her V2 cloak, and it couldn't do enough to break her defense as it was. Assuming the clone wasn't popped by the damage of the earthquake around them, Nozomi would ignore it for the moment, focusing down the real Joki.

Shoving her hands into the shattered earth, Nozomi picked up a massive chunk of the ground, straining to grab as much as possible and hurled it straight at Joki. If she couldn't use jutsu, she'd use her surroundings.


----
Old Stamina: 257/290
-1 Arhat Fist [Taijutsu cost reduction]
-0.5 Sensory active (Sensing Nature Chakra and Normal with SM)
New Stamina: 255.5/290

Sage Mode activate
Old Nature Chakra: 115/130
-5 SM
-5 Kata
New Nature Chakra: 105/130

V2: 2/10

Strength: B -> A [Serpentine Physiology] -> S [SM] -> S++ [Arhat Style]
Constitution: A -> S [SM]
Stamina: A+
Speed: A -> S [SM] -> S++ [Kata]
Coordination: A -> S [SM] -> S++ [Kata]
Intelligence: D
Perception: A -> S [SM]

Joki looked on calmly as Nozomi switched tactics. Undeterred by the the eliminated of ninjutsu, she attempted to resort to brute force strength. How trite. The cloaked monster stomped the ground with the intention of causing an earthquake. The pulverization of the ground had an impact on the platforms on which the Society members stood upon. The platforms shook and threatened to fall out of place and a few of the spectators lost their footing. The moment she raised her foot, Joki could tell what she was about to do and so braced himself accordingly. The impact was strong and perhaps if she continued with it, it mightily very well collapse the side of the island that they were fighting on.

The "clone's" attempt was interrupted but rather than popping, it appeared to be entirely unaffected by the stomp. It surged forward just as she flung the mass of rock towards the original. The shadowy construct split into two halves of water before reforming and continuing on a straight path towards Nozomi. The amoeba-like being produced a sword identical to the one being held by Joki. The sword was then layered with a thick ream of ice turning it more into a baton than a sword. Using the newly created blunt object, it would try to strike at Nozomi.

The real Joki likewise dodged the rock by reverting to his "Hozuki" liquid state. The phrase was a bit of a misnomer here for the Water Disciple was not a Hozuki. He was their progenitor. His bastard son had taken on the name and attached it to his power. Joki flowed through the cracks created by Nozomi, moving quickly while simultaneously aware that she must have some sensing capability. He knew from Honiko that she was not intellectually gifted and her realization of what was going on with regard to Ninjutsu was so quick that it indicated an additional source of knowledge. Either she had sensory or Isobu was cluing her in, maybe both. As the liquid Hozuki darted through the fissures, he occasionally popped back up to perform a set of seals before descending back into the ground. Suddenly the environment was enraptured with ice. Spikes of frost and winter began to erupt throughout the cliffside and a snow storm began to settle in. Using the cover of both the mist and the snow storm, Joki was able to temporarily "blind" Nozomi's sensory abilities. Depending on how she dealt with his ghost of a clone, he'd plot his emergence around that.

----------------------------------
-1 Tier Suiton Techniques [Ninjutsu Affinity]

Active
Water Sage Mode + Kata: 5 SP
Sensory: 0.5 CP
Kirisame: 10 CP [Split w/ Sage Pool]
Hidden Mist: 2.5
Winter Wonderland: 10 CP [Split w/ Sage Pool] {When combined with Hidden Mist Jutsu, obscures Sensory abilities for 3 posts}
???


Sage Pool: 87.5/130
Stamina: 286.5/320


Stats
• Strength: C -> B [SM]
• Constitution: C -B [SM]
• Stamina: A -> A++ [Cloak]
• Speed: A [SM] - > S -> S++ [Kata]
• Coordination: A [SM] -> S++ [Kata]
• Intelligence: S
• Perception: S -> X [SM]

Joki was certainly annoying. He was sort of like a slime, making Nozomi's boulder throw mean nothing. With the Kirisame cutting out her ninjutsu, Nozomi needed to think of some way to either bring back her ninjutsu or otherwise harm Joki. The V2 cloak at least dealt heavy burn damage on contact, so maybe that would work.

The real one hid among the cracks of the earth while the clone attacked her with an ice baton. Nozomi sprang her trap there. Two of the 3 tails lashed forward to wrap around the arm holding the ice baton, one tail lashed towards him to wrap his waist, the three invisible Kata snakes launched forward to wrap the other arm, neck, and left leg, while Nozomi launched punch from each arm, aiming to stick a hand into his chest and head. With such contact from the corrosive power of the V2 cloak, the clone should be heavily damaged, if not utterly destroyed.

Even if the Ice baton were to make contact, she led with one of the tails so that it would hit that first, and on the off chance that it broke through the tail, the second was there to wrap the arm and restrain it. So far, Joki hadn't demonstrated any sort of monstrous strength like she'd been hoping, he was just using hard control tactics to remove most of her arsenal that could do damage to him. Perhaps that was his secret. Physical damage couldn't hurt him and he could stop most forms of energy based damage with a technique?

Joki took the opportunity that she was engaging with the clone to alter the landscape even further, her sensory turning to static as well. The ice and snow storm around them began to pick up, mixed with the storm that Yen-li had summoned earlier and the Kirisame. With the pure destructive force that Nozomi commanded and her earlier terrain alterations, this was the type of fight that kept her blood boiling for a fight. They were shaping the world around them with casual attacks.

The pillars of ice in the area were questionable. None threatened her directly, but whether it was due to her proximity to Joki's clone or not was up for debate. And as far as her cloak was concerned, it could tank any damage they presented as far as piercing was concerned, which a sharp thing would be trying. However, so long as she wasn't moving, it didn't appear to be too much of a problem in her area, although that may also be that she was standing on massively shattered earth as well.

If she still held the clone or not, Nozomi would raise her arms and tails and slam it into the ground again, multiple times, pulverizing the remains of the clone and the earth around her, sending tremors through the area and shattering any ice in the near vicinity.

Of course, the lingering questions remained; how to deal with the Mist Rain, and how to deal with the snow storm blinding her sensory. Normally she'd just move, but their battle field was clear for the time being. She wouldn't give any ground to Joki. There had to be something else she could do, but for now, any solution eluded her.
----
Old Stamina: 255.5/290
-1 Arhat Fist [Taijutsu cost reduction]
-0.5 Sensory active (Sensing Nature Chakra and Normal with SM)
New Stamina: 254/290

Sage Mode activate
Old Nature Chakra: 105/130
-5 SM
-5 Kata
New Nature Chakra: 95/130

V2: 3/10

Strength: B -> A [Serpentine Physiology] -> S [SM] -> S++ [Arhat Style]
Constitution: A -> S [SM]
Stamina: A+
Speed: A -> S [SM] -> S++ [Kata]
Coordination: A -> S [SM] -> S++ [Kata]
Intelligence: D
Perception: A -> S [SM]

She had fallen for it. The "clone" that he had spawned was less of a clone and more of an illusion. A genjutsu of his own design that far exceeded the capabilities of most. He was a pioneer in the field of psychological warfare and it was to be expected that his mastery of genjutsu allowed him to bend the rules of what the masses thought possible. The moment Nozomi made contact with the clone, it dispersed into an icy mist. The contact was the trigger for a nightmare illusion. As with most cerebral genjutsu, the experience would last a mere fraction of a second but its effect was devastating. Nozomi would be confronted with an inexplicable chill. A sensation that wormed its way through the layers of heated dense chakra and pierced her mind. Memories and visions of her worst fears would envelope her. She'd be tormented by these thoughts while a cascade of water and ice threatened to drown her and just when all hope was lost, the illusion would end. Joki understood the mechanics of Bijuu possession better than anyone. The beast could Genjutsu: Kai illusions but not heal the damage that had been wrought by them. Nozomi would likely be vulnerable if only for a moment. A moment was all he needed. While Nozomi wrestled with the Genjutsu, Joki slithered directly behind her. He re-formulated himself into solid matter, took a breath and expelled a torrent of water at point blank range. The Great Waterfall Technique would hopefully slam into Nozomi's defense and crack the cloak. He knew he could not pierce through the V2 defense, but such a high pressure payload was guaranteed to leave the Jinchurikki exposed and interrupt her attempted annihilation of the ground. With his free hand, Joki prepared several handsigns as he got ready to follow-up or counter should his attack not succeed.

The illusion had worked wonders but he didn't expect this tactic to work twice. The Bijuu would probably be on to the unorthodox nature of the illusion by now and would be in a better position to counter it next time.



----------------------------------
-1 Tier Suiton Techniques [Ninjutsu Affinity]

Active
Water Sage Mode + Kata: 5 SP
Sensory: 0.5 CP
Kirisame: 5 CP [Split w/ Sage Pool]
Great Waterfall: 10 CP [Split w/ Sage Pool]
Winter Wonderland: 5 CP [Split w/ Sage Pool] {When combined with Hidden Mist Jutsu, obscures Sensory abilities for 3 posts} [2/3]
Oblique Ghost of Indra: 5 CP [C-Rank Psychological Damage on Nozomi]

Sage Pool: 62.5/130
Stamina: 256.5/320

Stats
• Strength: C -> B [SM]
• Constitution: C -B [SM]
• Stamina: A -> A++ [Cloak]
• Speed: A [SM] - > S -> S++ [Kata]
• Coordination: A [SM] -> S++ [Kata]
• Intelligence: S
• Perception: S -> X [SM]

Of course he’d use genjutsu against her. Nobody was able to match Nozomi in a pure physical capability. Isobu cursed for not realizing that Joki would have a clone that was made of genjutsu. It was unfortunate, but Nozomi had been caught in it. It was a simple genjutsu, but quite effective on the girl, who had no real counter to genjutsu of her own. Sensory had been her way of identifying them, but it wasn’t able to be used currently with whatever Joki had done.

Isobu freed Nozomi from the genjutsu as quickly as possible, but it was clear that it had done its damage. Nozomi saw Honiko torn asunder in her mind, and she was powerless to do anything to stop it. She remained frozen in place long enough for Joki to pull his maneuver, and the high pressure wave slammed into her V2 cloak, sending her flying with the force and breaking through the cloak, although doing no additional damage through it. Luckily enough, it dragged her away from Joki at a high enough speed that she had a few moments to collect herself and then re-up a defense. It would have been a simple matter to reactivate v2 as she shook off the shock of the genjutsu, but the rain was really the biggest issue to deal with so she could get back into the fight more.

There were some more optimal ways to use chakra in this fight, but Isobu had a massive amount of chakra to pull from and could regenerate it if the fight dragged on too long too. For now he had a plan.

“Use me to block the rain.”

In her mindscape, the command from Isobu took no time to reach her, and she knew what he meant. This was part of the reason she’d focused on training the Bijuu transformations to the point that she had. It wasn’t quite perfect yet, but it’d be enough for the time being.

Nozomi activated her Chakra Mode cloak. On top of her Sage mode and Kata, Nozomi’s form was once again covered in a secondary sheen. Nozomi’s body appeared to be wreathed in a flame-like light, a light grey normally, but with the Cyan flame aura of the Sage mode, it was tinted blue. The whites of her eyes turned into a red ringed color, with the still golden slitted iris remaining, a perfect mixture of the highest levels of Bijuu mastery and the highest levels of Sage mastery. Several black markings spiraled around her body from where her seal had originally been placed, giving her an interesting pattern.

Around her though, the grey aura expanded, and an ethereal form of Isobu expanded around Nozomi, leaving her standing in the expanded aura of the pure chakra being. It also held a similar black pattern as Nozomi’s seal around it.

Interestingly enough, Isobu was weaker than Nozomi was in this form, but it wasn’t by much, and it wasn’t really the purpose of the transformation. The rain of Kirisame couldn’t disperse the thick Bijuu chakra, and Nozomi was safe in the center of the Bijuu. Ultimately though, it was the size of the Bijuu that really mattered. With how massive it was, it covered the entire range of the rain’s area and then some, meaning that all of the area under her was fair game to utilize jutsu again.

That would make all the difference in the world. Nozomi was covered by Isobu, as well as a chakra cloak. Contact with her would be much harder a second time around, and while Isobu wasn’t at his peak ability, he was still a massive Kaiju, which meant that damaging it in a meaningful way was much more difficult than a person just due to sheer size.

Really this was primarily done to give Nozomi cover. With Kirisame out of the way under Isobu, Nozomi’s ninjutsu was back on. Holding itself up high, Isobu used its body as a makeshift umbrella over the entire battlefield, and Nozomi started to use up some of Isobu’s chakra. It would help conserve her own for when Sage mode started to run out.

Flipping through the seals of her form of specific Sage Art WHC, Nozomi once again reactivated it, shifting the water that was around them so she could land safely and once again have it as a layer of defense. Due to Joki’s Great Waterfall technique, there was no shortage of water on the battlefield, especially with the fallen rain, but there was no longer weaponized free rain around Joki. Still, he had been able to liquify against her boulder throw, so water likely wouldn’t do damage in the traditional sense.

Dropping through Isobu, Nozomi landed on the ground. The giant turtle was not going to participate in this junction of the fight. It wouldn’t amount to much if he tried unless he launched a Bijuu bomb straight at the ground, but he wouldn’t do that unless as a last resort.

Nozomi wasn’t that smart of a girl, but she’d been using Raiton and Suiton long enough that she knew the conductive power of Raiton though. It was likely her best bet against Joki. Water rose around her in a protective ring as she exited the body of Isobu, ready to be used defensively, as that had been the main goal of activativing the technique. Still, with the pure power she was wielding, it was eating through even the 3 tails reserves at a massive rate. She couldn’t maintain this for too long. It was the main reason she never used her summons or brought out Isobu.

Full attention was on Joki at this point. Mindful of her surroundings of course, but Nozomi’s focus was entirely on the fight. He displayed the ability to use Suiton, Genjutsu, Ninjutsu, Kenjutsu, and Ice. Anti sensory was tied to sensory abilities. What other tricks did he have up his sleeve?


[Adding in costs in a bit]
Sage Mode
Kata
Sensory
Chakra Access
Bijuu Transformation
Chakra Mode
Sage Art WHC
Arhat