--Prologue--
Set within a subzero cavern adorned with a sea of icicles sat a mythical creature of frost on its arctic throne. Its form was hidden by the tendrils of shadows that surrounded it as its dastardly aura repelled any living being that dared draw close. Icy veins ran alongside the cavern's walls as they glowed an icy blue. What resembled snow swirled violently inside the creature's frozen sanctuary. It was clear that this cavern was outside of this world, but it actually stood in-between the physical plain and the one beyond. Its presence was visible to certain creatures, but was only purposefully unveiled by its master. It's location was right outside of Kumogakure; it was strategically tucked away within the blizzards of its mountains.
Another creature manifested itself within the cave. Its appearance was also clouded, but its aura was significantly more subtle. It spoke in a whimpering sort of tone. Was it not accustomed to the frigid conditions of this zone? “M-m-master. Observation and analysis complete. We have found him.” With an elongated pause, another voice boomed within the room as a burst of chilly air flew out from the cavern's mouth. It's tone was indistinguishable, but it emitted a strong, icy presence. “I require my new vessel now. Fetch the boy.” </B><i></i>
“R-r-right away, Master!” replied the changeling as its form had begun to shift. With a few contortions and the sounds of bone popping, the image of a tan-skinned gypsy girl was now in the lesser creature's place. “I shall bring Ikko here at once.”<i></i>
--Present Day--
Within weeks following the sinister exchange, Ikko was to receive a letter addressed to him by one of his former classmates. The two didn't have an extensive history, but the scroll was clear with the instructions presented. It read:
If the Genin had ever seen the girl's writing, he would instantly recognize it as legible and hers. The bird that delivered the scroll fluttered off as any other did. The meeting was set and it was now up to the boy, at this point, to decide whether to show.
The following evening, Suika sat on the fountain's edge as sun set. It's waters reflected the orange-red of the sky as dusk approached. Her magenta eyes glowed with a faint beauty as the day's setting complimented its mystical shade almost perfectly. She was costumed in a more traditional gypsy-styled dress as she wore beads, golden bangles, and other trinkets. Her attire was relaxed, but it also added another layer of subtle allure to the petite girl. She trailed her hands along the brim of the fountain as she patiently awaited the boy. If he made his appearance, Suika was to greet him with a soft smile. <B>“Ikko-san, thanks for coming.” she followed with a small head bow. She continued. “How are you? I hate for this to be rushed, but I wanted to discuss with you a few important things, if you don't mind it.” She blushed slightly and turned her head away as to hide it. She composed herself and faced him again. Her eyes shimmered more than ever.
Set within a subzero cavern adorned with a sea of icicles sat a mythical creature of frost on its arctic throne. Its form was hidden by the tendrils of shadows that surrounded it as its dastardly aura repelled any living being that dared draw close. Icy veins ran alongside the cavern's walls as they glowed an icy blue. What resembled snow swirled violently inside the creature's frozen sanctuary. It was clear that this cavern was outside of this world, but it actually stood in-between the physical plain and the one beyond. Its presence was visible to certain creatures, but was only purposefully unveiled by its master. It's location was right outside of Kumogakure; it was strategically tucked away within the blizzards of its mountains.
Another creature manifested itself within the cave. Its appearance was also clouded, but its aura was significantly more subtle. It spoke in a whimpering sort of tone. Was it not accustomed to the frigid conditions of this zone? “M-m-master. Observation and analysis complete. We have found him.” With an elongated pause, another voice boomed within the room as a burst of chilly air flew out from the cavern's mouth. It's tone was indistinguishable, but it emitted a strong, icy presence. “I require my new vessel now. Fetch the boy.” </B><i></i>
“R-r-right away, Master!” replied the changeling as its form had begun to shift. With a few contortions and the sounds of bone popping, the image of a tan-skinned gypsy girl was now in the lesser creature's place. “I shall bring Ikko here at once.”<i></i>
--Present Day--
Within weeks following the sinister exchange, Ikko was to receive a letter addressed to him by one of his former classmates. The two didn't have an extensive history, but the scroll was clear with the instructions presented. It read:
Suika's Letter said:Hey Panther Destroyer,
I hate to be a bother, but I need to meet with you soon, if you don't mind. Meet me at Dawnbringer's Plaza at the fountain tomorrow around evening. Sorry for keeping this vague, but I'll fill you in once you get there. Thanks so much, Ikko-san!
Signed,
Suika
If the Genin had ever seen the girl's writing, he would instantly recognize it as legible and hers. The bird that delivered the scroll fluttered off as any other did. The meeting was set and it was now up to the boy, at this point, to decide whether to show.
The following evening, Suika sat on the fountain's edge as sun set. It's waters reflected the orange-red of the sky as dusk approached. Her magenta eyes glowed with a faint beauty as the day's setting complimented its mystical shade almost perfectly. She was costumed in a more traditional gypsy-styled dress as she wore beads, golden bangles, and other trinkets. Her attire was relaxed, but it also added another layer of subtle allure to the petite girl. She trailed her hands along the brim of the fountain as she patiently awaited the boy. If he made his appearance, Suika was to greet him with a soft smile. <B>“Ikko-san, thanks for coming.” she followed with a small head bow. She continued. “How are you? I hate for this to be rushed, but I wanted to discuss with you a few important things, if you don't mind it.” She blushed slightly and turned her head away as to hide it. She composed herself and faced him again. Her eyes shimmered more than ever.