Indoctrination Time [Senju Wing] [Natsuru]

[Senju Kazuki]

[col]

OC: Followup for this topic.

IC:
Immediately after leaving Suna, Kazuki went straight to the Senju Wing of the Toraono Dojo. At the entrance of is compound, two large metallic doors barred him from entering. The doors had a tree carved into them, a remarkable work of art that could only be truly appreciated when they where shut. Since each one only had part of the overall picture. The two Jounin he had ordered to escort Natsuru, into her new home, were still there, waiting for his arrival. "You're dismissed." the Senju Overlord would state. Without a sound and, a simple nod, the duo walked away. Reaper's further approach toward the entrance of his realm, started something. The doors would silently open, as if the White Wolf's mere presence were enough for them to do so. The reality was that they were attuned to each member of the Senju Clan, and would open automatically at their approach. Once inside, the doors would close again, securing his hold. The new compound was vastly different from the one in Konoha. Less houses, all made of stone. There was still a fountain in the middle, but there were less trees all around. Their Sacred Tree was nowhere to be found, as it no longer was stationed where they lived. The Toraono Clan had a private chamber where all their dead rested and it was there, at the heart of the Dojo, the most secretive and protected place of all, that the new Tree grew. Only those of the Toraono clan and those of the Senju clan had authorization to reach that part of this place. After all, they required periodic visits to retain their sanity.

The silvery haired man had a simple plan to end this mess with the arrival of his supposed sister. She was going to ingest the sap from the new youngling tree. If she was not who she claimed to be, she would be indoctrinated into the Senju. Making her one of them. If she really was Natsuru, nothing would happen, except a minor change. The calling for Konoha would slowly diminish until she no longer had to go there. That had happened to all Senju that had survived and had banded together in Sunagakure. Did they forgot Konohagakure? No, none would ever will. But they were no longer forced to go there. The calling had disappeared and they now considered Sand to be their new home. They would always miss their ancestral home, but they were no longer completely bound to it. As for those that had already born in Sand, they were utterly loyal to their home village.

The Sennin stood in the middle of the compound, near the fountain. He did not have to look around for the ashen haired woman. She was going to sought him again. Of that he was certain.​

|[legend="[[url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qMBans8jyM][b][u]Kazuki's Approach[/u][/b][/url]]"]

Senju Kazuki – Occult Sennin

[/legend][/col]

 

[Uka]

"Sooo..."<i></i> The young woman would be swaying from side to side as she sat on the chair backwards, the backrest facing her chest with her legs crossed on the seat. "Is the pay worth it being a shinobi? Last time I remember being paid I think I was still on the underage workforce pay and I remember it was pretty horrible. I'm sure it's all just a ploy made up to annoy people, but it really was a pain to buy all the stuff with no real money whatsoever. It really was a little bit like slavery."<i></i> Natsuru would chuckle, her laughter lasting much longer than necessary as she noticed one of the two jounin shiver ever so slightly. Maybe he was annoyed at the fact that she had been asking them annoying questions for a good half an hour at this point, not giving them any real time to answer, or he had noticed that something was really messed up in her head and she openly showed it. After all the medic never was one to really hide it.

She would let out a light sigh as nobody even bothered to acknowledge she had said anything, preparing to continue pestering them, trying to make one of them snap and shout at her before she was able to proceed with her ploy the two ran off as quickly as they possibly could. Natsu couldn't help but pout to the walls. She continued swaying from side to side for another couple of minutes before she grew bored and started singing "Wolves asleepin' midst the trees, Bats all aswayin' in the breeze, But one soul lies anxious, wide awake, Fearin' all manner of ghouls, hags and wraiths."<i></i> Her voice rang out in the small chamber she was sat in. It would be surprising to many, but even in her voice normally was filled with a suppressed chuckle she had now suppressed that, showing that she was actually quite a skilled singer.

" For your dolly, polly sleep has flown, Don't dare let her tremble alone."<i></i> Natsuru would finally stop swaying as she uncoiled her feet from underneat herself and slowly stood up, her eyes casually scanning the room before she made her way over to the door. It really was a weird one. It looked a bit like their old home, yet it was so very different. "For the witcher Heartless cold, Paid in coin of gold, He comes, he'll go, Leave naught behind But heartache and woe. Deep, deep woe."<i></i> Her voice carried the tune through the corridor as she opened the door, closing it quietly being herself, her light smile still as ever present as it was.

"Birds are silent for the night, Cows turned in as daylight dies, But one soul lies anxious wide awake, Fearin' all manner of ghouls, hags and wraiths."<i></i> Even though she was singing a song used to scare children it had a rather deeper meaning to the now somewhat seasoned demon hunter. Some people believed such creatures were but myths, yet the Senju knew they were not. It was all real even if those creatures did hide away from sight, hunting more effectively than most mammal predators or even shinobi in some cases. Her smile would grow into a grin for a brief moment at the thought as she found herself in a bigger room, the sound of a fountain in the distance mixing with her tune. "My dear dolly, polly shut your eyes, Lie still, lie silent, utter no cries."<i></i>

Natsuru would slowly enter the central area of the compound once more. She had seen it before when she had been brought here, however it was only now that she truly noticed how similar it was to their old home. "As the witcher Brave and bold, Paid in coin of gold. He'll chop and slice you, Gut and dice you, Eat you up whole. Eat you whole."<i></i> Her song would finally come to an end as her eyes fell upon her brother. There was little doubt that his presence was still as strong as usual, now even in a physical sense, whereas it has only been a feeling before. "Not a bad tune, is it nii?"<i></i> Natsuru would ask, hopping from foot to foot as she avoided stepping outside the boundaries of the tiles on the ground, much like a child playing would, as she slowly approached the other Senju.

 

[Senju Kazuki]

[col]

Kazuki did not have to wait for long. Minutes after arriving, his ears would caught the most curious sound. A female voice singing. The lyrics were unrecognizable, as if the singer was behind walls and far away. But he still thought the rhythm to be familiar. Quite similar to a song he had heard many times before. It would seem that whoever was singing, was drawing near. As timed lapsed, the sentences began to be recognized for what they were. "Birds are silent for the night, Cows turned in as daylight dies, But one soul lies anxious wide awake, Fearin' all manner of ghouls, hags and wraiths." was the first sentence he fully understood. "As the witcher Brave and bold, Paid in coin of gold. He'll chop and slice you, Gut and dice you, Eat you up whole. Eat you whole." being the other, coincidentally, the last one sang by Natsuru. He had recognized her voice midway through and was surprised to listen to her singing. When was the last time that had happened? In truth, he had no recollection of a previous time. Remarkably, she still remembered a song that used to be heard inside their ancestral household. Perhaps another testament she was she claimed to be. Otherwise, someone had gone to great lengths to ensure everything was perfectly mimicked.

"Not a bad tune, is it nii?" the senju woman would inquire, as she hopped from tile to tile, making way toward her elder brother. The Senju Overlord noticed this childish behavior but payed no heed to it. "No, but I am not overly fond of the memories it brings. It reminds of home and our parents. A feeling you will certainly share with me." the White Wolf would reply. Was it their mother? Or their father that used to sing that song? He did not for certain, but he was quite certain it was a common melody in his house. After all, their family had been devoted hunters, until all that remained was the silvery haired man and the ashen haired woman. "That was one ominous way to enter Sunagakure." Reaper would note. He had never expected to see his sister after all those years. Let alone, have her meet Mother Suna right off the bat. After all, Ancients and Humanity were at war. And the Sennin was a bridge between both worlds. Something to be shared with Natsuru at a later time. "Time to test your word." he would announce as he reached for her hand. Regardless if she were to reach out and grab it, the Deep Court Hybrid would commence walking toward the far edge of the Senju Compound.

Moments later he would reach a stone pillar that was a single meter high. A pitch black stone had been placed on top, and it had a faint glow. By placing is right hand on top of it, presumably, the free one, since Natsuru could be holding his left, they would be warped toward the inner core of the Toraono Dojo. The very place where their tree stood. All thanks to the Toraono's Warp stones. The air was tepid and the room went as far as the eye could see. It was potentially endless. Their target was not far from their current spot. Only a few meters away. "Welcome to the Toraono Burial Ground. Our goal is there." Kazuki would announce. She would notice he had kept his voice low, as if not to disrupt the ambient. In truth, he showed some kind of respect for the decease there, some of which belong to their own clan. All the graves that belonged to fallen Senju had a tree carved into the stone that marked their location. Their goal, however, was very much alive and needed no pointing or introductions. Although still very young, the Sacred Tree already commanded an impressive presence. Already 3 meters tall, the bark was not as dark as she would remember. The Senju Overlord would release his hold, if any, and he would walk toward the tree. Would she follow him? And was she already aware of what he planned to do?​

|[legend="[[url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qMBans8jyM][b][u]Kazuki's Approach[/u][/b][/url]]"]

Senju Kazuki – Occult Sennin

[/legend][/col]

 

[Uka]

She would finally stop her little game just a couple of feet away from the larger man, her smile widening into a warm half-grin as she closed her eyes. No matter that the feeling was slightly different it was far too similar to be another. "I can't say. Some things from that far back are still fuzzy. I remember the song, but not much more."<i></i> She would shrug finally opening her eyes as she stood up straight, just barely managing to reach up to his shoulder. It had always been this way, especially now that both of them had truly stopped growing. "I think it was meant to remind us of the duty of hunting Fate and his minions down. Like the one that uncle was keeping sealed."<i></i> Natsuru would nod twice to herself as if she had made some very important point.

"Hey now, Onii!"<i></i> She would pout. "That one was not my fault. That weird woman went insane when I asked for the bounty payout and whether she had seen you. Calling you hers and all that nonsense."<i></i> The medic would glance to the side, crossing her hands on her chest as she did so. As mature and, well technically grown up as she was there were many childish things left in her, quite possibly a result of never really having a childhood. "More questions?"<i></i> Natsu would ask as she quickly stopped her game, glancing over towards her brother, raising an eyebrow. "I can leave if you wish me to, nii. Knowing you are fine is enough for me. I don't want to cause you trouble."<i></i> The woman would note, glancing down at her feet, her smile disappearing. It was rather clear she didn't like entertaining that thought, but if that is what he wished she would oblige. Her affection was something she had gotten used to over the years and it was quite possibly the biggest leash, managing to overpower even that of the cursed sap.

His outstretched hand would make its way into her field of vision as she looked up and then back down at it, readily offering her right as she allowed herself to be lead to wherever Kazuki wanted to lead her. Was it foolish? It was, but there was little that she could do about it. As the two warped she would feel her insides churn, but wouldn't really react to it, her light smile still as ever present as it always was. A smile that would disappear almost instantly as she noticed that one cursed object. Natsuru recognised it almost instantly, even if the one she knew was much, much larger and had been destroyed. As Kazuki moved forwards she would remain in her stop, blankly staring at the tree. What was it doing here? Had her brother re-planted it? There was no other explanation other than that. He had, but why? It was nothing more than a curse. The pull towards their former home, the cursed desire for power, the hunger it brought with it and the decisions it had forced her to make. In the end it was all to defeat Fate, however it was a curse no matter how one looked at it.

 

[Senju Kazuki]

[col]

”I can’t say. Some things from that far back are still fuzzy. I remember the song, but not much more.” Natsuru would confide. Memory loss was a severe issue. Regaining those memories back was, usually, not an instantaneous process. Instead, it usually took numerous stimulus for full recovery to take place. Perhaps another clue she was the real deal. Or the woman behind this façade was a great actress. ”I think it was meant to remind us of the duty of hunting Fate and his minions down. Like the one that uncle was keeping sealed.” the Senju woman would add. She was only partially correct. ”You are only partially correct. The song was something all demon hunters shared with each other, because it reminds them of their solemn duty. Until proven wrong, I am afraid Fate is a fabrication of your mind.” Kazuki would clarify. He had never believed Fate to be real. The ashen haired woman’s psyche had been extensively damaged during her childhood, and the creating of an enemy she had to hunt down, had given her focus. Perhaps, it was the way her brain had found out to prevent a total meltdown. The demon race had leaders, that was a known fact. But there was none called Fate. And by her own words, this Fate being was their undisputed king. And if there was one thing they did not possess, considering all facts and accounts, was a single ruler. They were far too chaotic.

”Hey now, Onii! That one was not my fault. That weird woman went insane when I asked for the bounty payout and whether she had seen you. Calling you hers and all that nonsense.” she would complain, after hearing the Senju Overlord’s comments about how ominous her entrance in Sunagakure had been. In a way, it was symbolic. His past clashing with a possible future. But if anything, the Senju payed their due respect with their past. And family was always family. ”I know. I heard everything once she called me out. I have straighten her out, I hope, and she should give you no more trouble. If she does, we will have to sort that out, once and for all.” the White Wolf would state. The Earth Queen’s loneliness and desire for family was so great, she was willing to protect and, claim possession of lowly hybrids, such as him. It would be endearing in a way, but they were potentially enemies, removing any sort of sweetness associated with it.

”More questions?” Natsuru would inquire after the silvery haired man had declared the time for the final test had come. ”You will see.” Reaper would calmly reply. He was not prepared for what she was about to say, however. ”I can leave if you wish me to, nii. Knowing you are fine is enough for me. I don’t want to cause you trouble.” The ashen haired woman was looking down, not willing to face him. It was clear she did not want to do that, but she seemed ready to sacrifice herself. ”Are you mad? You are my sister Natsuru. I would invade hell myself if it meant saving you. You are my only family left and you belong at my side.” The Sennin would quickly correct her, his voice harsh with the outrage of hearing such proposal. ”If you really are her, that is.” he would quickly add, before extending his left hand toward her. Hand that would be readily accepted and so they made their way toward where their tree was.

The Sacred Tree required no introductions to a Senju. They all immediately recognized it upon the fastest of gazes. If she was Natsuru she would perceive it for what it was, even it would be different than the original one. Given enough time though, it would grow to the same size as the other one. The Death Court Lord made his way toward the tree, leaving his sister behind. Once there he would turn around and he would see that she was still on the same spot. ”Come Natsuru. Time to prove, once and for all, you are her.” he would call her. Immediately he would conjure a jade dagger that he would use to stab the tree. As drops of sap poured down, a jade cup that he also had conjured collected them. Once cup had reached half of its holding capacity, he would drink its contents just to prove a point. As usual, it tasted like passion fruit. Fresh and delicious. He would refill the cup once he had finished. ”Your turn. If you are Natsuru, nothing about you will change. You will remain as you are, but the longing for Konoha will diminish until you no longer feel the need to go there. If you are not her, we will see what happens.” Kazuki would note. If she was Natsuru all along, he planned to have her join Sunagakure’s medical corps and become a full Sand shinobi, just like him. But first, the ultimate test.​

|[legend="[[url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qMBans8jyM][b][u]Kazuki's Approach[/u][/b][/url]]"]

Senju Kazuki – Occult Sennin

[/legend][/col]

 

[Uka]

Natsuru couldn't help but smile, trying to hide it by turning away ever so slightly more. It was beyond obvious what she was doing, but she still tried to either way. It was nothing out of the ordinary for her really. At least it was something her brother would rather easily be able to recognise. The child in her was still very much alive after all. She might have been one of the best medics in leaf not too long ago and ever a part of the anbu branch at the same time, however those things mattered little now. The thirst, desire, need to go back to konoha was somewhat drowned out with sheer willpower. After all she was no shinobi anymore. A demon hunter yes, however she was no ninja even if she did keep that forehead protector. And as all good things came to an end her little joyous moment was completely cut short, her pout growing before she finally decided to follow him.

***

The kunoichi would remain in her place, visibly gulping at her brother lifted the cup. She knew full well what that was and the implications it help. The cursed desires that she had managed to keep down for so long would only begin anew if she was to partake. The existence whilst desiring power was blasphemous, cursed, painful. So, so many mistakes. So much trouble. So much hatred. That was all the tree had caused. She knew it, but couldn't do anything about it. Such were the shackles associated with the power of the cursed tree. One could never harm it and one could never really harm another Senju because of it. There was a reason there was so few disputes between the clan after all. They simply couldn't actually do anything. "You planted a new one nii?"<i></i> Natsu would ask, her eyes clearly showing her hatred for the object, yet they were filled with understanding. She knew it had to be done, yet still hated it all the same. "You want me to renew the curse anew?"<i></i> She would gulp once more before hesitantly taking a step forwards. There was no real way out. Her fear of KAzuki was real even if the Senju blood would interfere. He would force her to drink it eventually. She didn't want that cursed thirst to grow once more, but what choice was there? There was none. Natsu would shake her head before taking another, followed by another until she finally stood in front of her brother. She would roughly grab the cursed cup, somehow not spilling the liquid before gulping it down. The hateful, disgusting liquid leaving a mark on her throat for days to come. And nothing really happened at all. After all there was only so little that a second or even fiftieth dose really did.

Natsuru would hand the cup back to him, wiping her mouth with the back of her right sleeve, not saying a word.

 

[Senju Kazuki]

[col]

While Kazuki patiently waited for her sister to draw near, he spotted a smile surfacing. She tried to hide it, a pointless effort on her part. Something she used to do when they were much younger. It was interesting to see she seemed to keep those tiny aspects intact. Perhaps there was hope after all. Still, hope was for the fools out there. And the Senju Overlord was not one of them. Eventually she would reach him. The White Wolf would notice a visible gulp from her once he downed the first cup. "You planted a new one nii?" she would ask, hate blatant in her gaze as he stared at the tree. The silvery haired man could relate to her feeling. In a way, they were all slaves to it, but they could not live without it either. Addiction to the sap was a very real curse all Senju share. And the effects of ingesting it made them all crazy for power. Regardless of the method. Natsuru had to kill demons, he had to absorb souls. The methods varied from individual to individual, not all of them violent. But these two effects were not all that changed for them. A sense of belonging and a deep desire of protecting their land was instilled on them. Reaper's desire to visit Leaf had greatly diminished and he no longer was depended on the original Sacred Tree. Natsuru would also be free from those leafy shackles. "When I left Konohagakure in its downfall, I carried with me a few seeds of our mighty tree. My plan was to plant wherever I found haven to ensure our clan's survival. Tsuchigakure also has one tree growing. So it makes three of them now, in this world. As you know, we need it or we will perish. A blessed curse, I like to call it. What we gain from it." the Sennin would clarify.

"You want me to renew the curse anew?" Natsuru would question. The Deep Court Hybrid would shake his head. She did not understand the full ramifications of ingesting this new sap. She was not renewing anything, only removing something. "No. The thirst for power will forever be part of you, if that is what you are talking about. I am merely freeing you from the shackles of Konohagakure. You no longer have to go there." Kazuki would answer. "In fact, we are probably not welcomed there anymore." he would quickly add. The Senju Overlord would remain silent, waiting for a decision on her part. To drink or not to drink. It was a simple choice, at least in his mind. Eventually she would snatch the cup from his hand and would drink its contents entirely. The White Wolf kept his silence as the jade cup was returned. And he calmly studied the woman in front of him. He waited for any signs, although he hoped for none. Minutes would pass and no signs could be seen. "You truly are her." he would announce before sighing heavily. He would lower his head momentarily. Once he raised it back up, his eyes would be glowing with happiness. He would attempt to hug her.

Hug accepted or not, he would eventually walk toward the portal again. "Time to leave this graveyard. Let us go to my house." he would announce. After touching the black stone, the silvery haired man would return to the compound. He would walk toward a solitary house, that was bigger than the others, although still as plain as the rest. After entering, Kazuki would lead his sister, assuming she was following him, toward his office. The walls were all hidden behind bookshelves, filled to the brim. Two comfy chairs beside a single wooden table, with a lamp, were the remaining furniture. The Senju Overlord would take the one on the right, leaving the other one for Natsuru. "There is so much to share with you. But first I should tell you that I want you to join the Medical Corps of Sunagakure. I remember you being a great medic. Perhaps it is time to place that skill into practice again. If you agree that is." Reaper would declare.​

|[legend="[[url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qMBans8jyM][b][u]Kazuki's Approach[/u][/b][/url]]"]

Senju Kazuki – Occult Sennin

[/legend][/col]

 

[Uka]

The hated feeling would rush through her body once more, that one focused desire for power, that one feeling, which had doomed so many of their kind to death. How many they would never really know, considering how many people had completely gone missing. So many brothers and sisters in arms lost forever to the fall of Konoha. So many friends now forgotten, heck even annoyances she missed. Speaking of that there was one more thing, something strange,namely that she didn't really feel that strong pull towards the fire country. There was still a dull memory in the back of her mind, however it was nowhere near as prevalent enough as it had been mere minutes before. Maybe that was the unexpected effect of a second tree. They essentially ended up fully cancelling each other out in a way. The fact that her brother had just changed her prison to a new area, not even crossing her mind. "I am aware. We would probably be hunted down as traitors if we were to go back there. I might be insane, but I am not stupid as you know."<i></i> Natsuru would roll her eyes with a hint of annoyance in her voice after finally managing to get over that disgustingly sweet taste. "As disgustingly sweet as usual."<i></i> The kunoichi would stick her tongue out slightly, clearly not having enjoyed the drink as much as Kazuki had. She never had liked drinking the cursed sap and now even more so as she had finally managed to get over some of the effects of the addiction, effects which would now once more hunt her.

She would let out a prolonged sigh, shaking her head from side to side. Natsu wouldn't really react to the hug, still annoyed at her brother, but wouldn't actively push him away. "Oh now I am who I say I am? Sheesh. How many women with blue eyes and white hair have you seen, who actively hunt down after a supposedly nonexistent Fate? I'm sure there are thousands just like that everywhere, especially who have indepth knowledge of the workings of the Senju clan."<i></i> The sarcasm in her voice was rather clear as she followed her brother, the desire to tease and bug him burning bright within her mind. "Oh and all of them have blades built into their body with your rather strange designs making up their mechanisms. There's even a few of them out there who know you were an anbu as they were both a medical chief and an anbu around that time as well. Just hundreds of thousands."<i></i> Natsu would continue, knowing full well it would annoy him to no end even if he would never actually outwardly show it. "Moving on I am no shinobi anymore, nii. I never really was. You know full well we only helped konoha as a side activity to hunting demons back then. It was just beneficial to have the pay. What is the point of tying myself up in such things again?"<i></i> She would shrug. As little as she did really remember the newfound freedom was not a bad thing at the end of the day.

 

[Senju Kazuki]

[col]

”I am aware. We would probably be hunted down as traitors if we were to go back there. I might be insane, but I am not stupid as you know.” Natsuru would agree with Kazuki’s assessment that they would not be welcomed in Leaf anymore. After all, they had all failed to report once it had been restored. And said restoration had happened without any active participation from their part. ”I never thought you were. Reckless, yes. But not stupid.” the Senju Overlord would comment. ”As disgustingly sweet as usual.” she would note. The White Wolf would smirk upon hearing those words. He never had such an atrocious reaction to it, unlike his sister, that always complained. ”Oh now I am who I say I am? Sheesh. How many women with blue eyes and white have you seen, who actively hunt down after a supposedly nonexistent Fate? I’m sure there are thousands just like that everywhere, especially who have indepth knowledge of the workings of the Senju clan.” Natsuru would remark, sarcasm blatant in her voice. ”I have noted your sarcasm sister. Let me tell you one thing. I am man with many enemies, now more than ever. I can never be too safe.” the silvery haired man would retort. He did not have enough fingers to count them all. The Fire Daimyo, the Wind Daimyo, the Sovereign, the Cabal, Mother Suna, Mikaboshi, Ancients in general, demons, etc, etc. The list went on. Being a recognized figure, made him a target, something he had learn to live with.

”Oh and all of them have blades built into their body with your rather strange designs making up their mechanisms. There’s even a few of them out there who know you were an ANBU as they were both a Medical Chief and an ANBU around that time as well. Just Just hundreds of thousands.” she would continue, still using the same tone. A clear attempt of annoying to no end. Something she had done countless times before. And, undoubtedly, would continuing to do so. Unlike at her first try, this time, the White Wolf would stay silent. Eventually they would reach his house, and his private library.

”Moving on I am no shinobi anymore, nii. I never really was. You know full well we only helped Konoha as a side activity to hunting demons back then. It was just beneficial to have the pay. What is the point of tying myself up in such things again?” the ashen haired woman would inquire, after being told Reaper wanted her to join the Medical Corps of Sunagakure. The Sennin would sigh before answering her. ”The pay was good then and it is still good now. We are not as numerous as we once were. We have plenty of enemies out there and you will be safer inside Sunagakure as one of their shinobi. Sand needs you. Shall I continue?” He would stay silent, gazing a point in the infinite before continuing. ”I will not hide this from you. Our situation is grim. The Fire Daimyo is still after us, I am sure. Sunagakure is at war with the Wind Daimyo. Another madman bent on conquering the world of shinobi. But it worse than that. The Wind Country has a race that embodies specific elements, in fact, they are made of that very substance. They are known as Ancients. This race is an enemy of mankind as well, and although a dying breed, the Daimyo is using most of their remnants as batteries, fueling his army. With you at my side, I am sure we have a greater chance of winning. But if you don’t wish to be a part of all of this, I won’t force you.” Most of the cards have been shown. There was still more to talk about, but this should give her all the info necessary to reach some decision.​

|[legend="[[url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qMBans8jyM][b][u]Kazuki's Approach[/u][/b][/url]]"]

Senju Kazuki – Occult Sennin

[/legend][/col]

 

[Uka]

Natsuru would find herself a wall to lean on, resting her back against it as her eyes shot down to the floor as she considered his words quietly. The silence went on for a few minutes even though it was absolutely pointless. She already knew the answer and so did he. It was just a little game of playing hard to get in a way. "If you need my help I am always here to do so, nii."<i></i> She would note, crossing her hands on her chest, clearly taking her time and picking her words. "Considering what you just made me drink I have little to no choice but remain close to sand. You know that after all. Even if the effects are weaker and fairly muffled due to having a mix of both in my blood. I could probably just leave, but I would eventually need to return to one of these places."<i></i> She would shrug, letting out a prolonged chuckle.

Ah the joys of being stuck in that little cursed Senju loop. Let whoever first drank the sap be forever damned to wander the world between realms with no respite. That was truly her dearest wish, even more so than killing Fate after a prolonged torture. "Konoha is somewhat out of the question, but most there probably don't actually know who we are anymore, considering how many died and how few people actually knew us well. Shida is gone. Yusei is gone. Reika is gone. Daiki is gone. Minoru is gone. Mana is gone. Uncle is gone if not killed by that blasted servant of Fate inside him. Frankly of all the people I know, all the people I grew up with there is nobody left. Funny isn't it?"<i></i> She would burst into a fit of laughter, one rather different than usual. There was no real hint of madness, but rather one of irony. Natsuru was, after all, forcing it. "Compared to that what problem will a few Daimyo's and elemental demonsbe?"<i></i> She would shrug, glancing up with a grin, one that would quickly disappear as her expression turned colder than ice, her blue eyes able to pierce through any material as a white gleam shone in them. "Anyone who tries to hurt nii will be disposed off. I will stay and help, but I might be more useful if I am neutral."<i></i>

 

[Senju Kazuki]

[col]

Instead of seating on one the chairs Kazuki had offered, Natsuru opted to lean against one the bookshelves (yes, all walls are covered by bookshelves, except for the part where the door is), perhaps an uncomfortable choice, but if it suited her, so be it. She pondered silently on what he had told her. It was not easy to digest, he understood that. Out of one fire, right into another. Perhaps, even a bigger one. "If you need my help I am always here to do so, nii. Considering what you just made me drink I have little to no choice but remain close to sand. You know that after all. Even if the effects are weaker and fairly muffled due to having a mix of both in my blood. I could probably just leave, but I would eventually need to return to one of these places." she would note. In a strange way, reassuring her elder brother that she was going to stick around. Even if temporarily. "Konoha is somewhat out of the question, but most there probably don't actually know who we are anymore, considering how many died and how few people actually knew us well. Shida is gone. Yusei is gone. Reika is gone. Daiki is gone. Minoru is gone. Mana is gone. Uncle is gone if not killed by that blasted servant of Fate inside him. Frankly of all the people I know, all the people I grew up with there is nobody left. Funny isn't it?" Natsuru would make a head count finishing with a laugher. The Senju Overlord did not fail to notice there was no hint of madness present in that laughter. In fact, it sounded ironic. "I would label it tragic. The fact that so many have died, or are missing. We can no longer count on those, but we have new allies now. The Toraono Clan, one of the oldest in the Wind Country is now a sibling clan. We are in equal standing with them, which is why we live in the Toraono Dojo, with an entire wing to us. And it is why our tree was planted in their burial ground. The irony is that the Toraono are bound to safekeeping Sunagakure by an oath. The Kazekage, Takahashi Sousuke is our ally and has hidden our clan from the world, in a way. I am one of Sand's Sennins as you are aware." the White Wolf would explain. Were they in a good spot? No, but they were far better now than they were around the time of Leaf's downfall.

"Compared to that what problem will a few Daimyo's and elemental demonsbe?" she would shrug, glancing a grin. A smile that would swiftly disappear as Natsuru assumed a far colder demeanor. "Anyone who tries to hurt nii will be disposed off. I will stay and help, but I might be more useful if I am neutral." The silvery haired man would nod. "The same is true in reverse as you know Natsuru." Reaper would declare as he tried to lock eyes with her. Dark vs Light. "If you wish to remain neutral, neutral you shall remain." he would note. It was time to deliver the bomb. "I would take Ancients that lightly. They are not humans as I have told you. They symbolize a given element. We have the Earth Court, the Deep Court, the Solar Court. And the list goes on. They are made of something specific and have certain limitations. For example, the Earth Court cannot take sides once a struggle has initiated. The Deep Court cannot lie. Their most dangerous trait is that they use human souls as nourishment. They are already stronger than a normal human, but given a soul, they power skyrockets." the Sennin would share with the young Senju woman. He was certain she was already seeing some similarities between her brother and that strange race. "You know I take souls since my Joining. And you are aware that my body began to emit a chilling aura a few years later. Since my arrival into Sand, I have found out that I am partly Ancient. Specifically of the Deep Court variety. In fact, it is quite possible Mikaboshi, the Lord of the Deep Court, or someone of his ilk has mingled with one of us in our past. Potentially, we should all have Ancient DNA, I just happened to awaken mine." Boom, headshot.​

|[legend="[[url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qMBans8jyM][b][u]Kazuki's Approach[/u][/b][/url]]"]

Senju Kazuki – Occult Sennin

[/legend][/col]

 

[Uka]

Would find herself leaning against the now closed door, which hopefully wouldn't just open itself and allow her to fall stupidly. If that was the case she would strain her muscles, mock-leaning onto the now open door. "As sad as it might sound I only count one ally in a very wide radius around us and that would be you. We will see whether there are any real ones when it really counts."<i></i> She would shrug, her expression serious compared to how she rarely was. "As you yourself said the people I considered allies, such as Reika, are either dead or missing. Frankly if all of sand is like that anbu I can't see any of them being useful against Fate and those new ancients of his."<i></i> Natsuru would shrug, growing quiet for a while as she once more retreated in thought. There was little use for laughter or a fake smile in this situation. Her brother knew that it was farce in a way.

She would glance up after he metaphorically dropped the bomb on the discussion, blinking in a very exaggerated manner as she struggled to comprehend his words. Or at least made it seem like she was struggling. Her uncle was one thing, but now all of them had demon roots? Some demon hunters they were. One had a demon inside him and now both she and her brother were apparently demons. There was one bigger question - could a demon actually kill Fate? That was a rather big concern really. With a shrug Natsuru would channel chakra into her eyes, the veins on her face bulging as she did so. "First it turns out we apparently mixed with Hyuuga."<i></i> The medic would gesture up to her now white eyes. "And now apparently we have demon blood? Ah the surprises of our damn parents and heritage keep growing with every passing year. So we've technically been killing uncle Bob for the last twenty or so years? Colour me rather surprised."<i></i> Natsuru couldn't help but chuckle at the irony of it all. "So do we have a game plan other than just hiding away and hoping that we don't get overrun? Or just keep eating souls to get power?"<i></i> She was not showing any real reaction to his mention of soul eating. After all she was used to it and considering her sanity was not exactly at the same level as most people it was not really a surprise really.

[Lost my big post. -.-]

 

[Senju Kazuki]

[col]

Assuming bookshelves were too uncomfortable to lean on, so Natsuru would choose the door instead. Luckily for her, said door opened inwards, making it impossible for her to fall, by an accidental door opening. Of course, her frame would also prevent anyone from entering the room, not that there were anyone else in the house, to begin with. [/glow=blue]”As sad as it sound I only count one ally in a very wide radius around us and that would be you. We will see whether there are any real ones when it really counts.”[/glow] Natsuru would note after hearing the new allies Kazuki had garnered after reaching Sand. In a way, she was right. Until proven otherwise, these were tentative allegiances. Not that the Senju Overlord doubted they would step up and help the Senju, but until said desperate times were to come, words were still just that, words. Actions speak louder than words do as they say. ”As you yourself said the people I considered allies, such as Reika, are either dead or missing. Frankly if all of Sand is like that ANBU I can’t see any of them being useful against Fate and those new ancients of his.” the former Medical Ninja would further emphasize. Yes, no wonder she would think like that. Her encounter with a disguised Mother Suna had been a crappy to say the least. Suna’s sense of possession over the Deep Court Hybrid had reached a critical point after Natsuru showed up. Although Suna’s relationship with Reaper had not been a very amicable one, the young Senju’s emergence had led to complete termination of any relationship they could have. Suna was stubborn and refused to see the truth. In return, the White Wolf was no less adamant on his stance. ”No, fortunately, not all of Sand is like that ANBU. And worry it no more, I have dealt with her.” the silvery haired man would state. Revealing the AiT’s true identity was something he was not ready to share yet. Even though she no longer belonged to the ANBU branch. Revealing their identities were a severe breach of protocol that would be dealt accordingly.

The Sennin would drop the bomb and he would patiently wait for an reaction. Natsuru would begin by activating her Byakugan. ”First it turns out we apparently mixed with Hyuuga. And now apparently we have demon blood? Ah the surprises of our damn parents and heritage keep growing with every passing year. So we’ve technically been killing uncle Bob for the last twenty or so years? Colour me rather surprised.” Natsuru would complain, chucking with the irony. Kazuki would shook his head. She did not grasp the entire picture. Luckily he had more knowledge than her. ”You know we never have been a closed clan. Nagato has Uchiha blood . You have Hyuuga. I used to have Tsuchimikado genes within me, just like our parents. We have potentially mingled with any bloodline there is, over the time. Thus we can show any kind of abilities.” (Nagato is a cousin NPC of mine) he would explain. ”I used the verb in the past before, because I no longer have the abilities of Tsuchimikado. Around Leaf’s downfall, I fought the Daimyo’s lieutenants. They had captured an entity with the ability to warp reality. Although I won the fight, including absorbing that entity, I lost access to my former abilities. But gain new ones as compensation. I have absolute mastery over shadows now. In a strange way, I am like a Nara, although I am not exactly one.” the Senju Overlord would reveal. Yes, a very hard battle that he managed to win, although not without consequences. But all in all, he had come out on top with those changes. ”Also, the Ancient race is an indigenous species of the Wind Country. They cannot live in different countries. And, as ironic this might sound, they are enemies of demons, just like we. The difference is they considered humanity as a food source, making us their enemies as well. Truces, or alliances, with them are very hard, if not impossible.” Hopefully she would be better armed now.

”So do we have a game plan other than just hiding away and hoping that we don’t get overrun? Or just keep eating souls to get power?” Natsuru would inquire. An excellent question, one that Reaper did not have the answers for. ”I will, for one, certainly keep grabbing souls. I would, if I were you, not even try to do it. You never could and I would rather not have you become dependent on that, like I am. As for the plan, I do not know. I want to spring into action but our enemies are stronger than us. For the time being we have to wait, but we need to take action so. The Kazekage knows this, but he has yet to formulate a plan of attack. Do you have any suggestions?” the silvery haired man would inquire. Was that a first? He asking for advice from her. Perhaps it was. And meant how the times changed.

[MFT - 851]​

|[legend="[[url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qMBans8jyM][b][u]Kazuki's Approach[/u][/b][/url]]"]

Senju Kazuki – Occult Sennin

[/legend][/col]

 

[Uka]

Natsuru couldn't help but chuckle as he mentioned that crazy woman had been dealt with. It honestly didn't matter one bit, but it was just a reason for her to be more careful with her newfound freedom in a way. Now she was stuck in between two villages in a way, being drawn to either even if it was much better than before. No matter how much she wanted to avoid it joining one eventually would be a very likely possibility, but that would have to wait for at least a while. Whilst her brother needed her she would be here, waiting for a time when she would be needed yet again. Natsu was nowhere near the fighter that her brother was, but she was still a formidable foe back in the day, heck even more so now."ANBU everywhere are... special in their own way."<i></i> She would roll her eyes. "Heck even I was one once so I should know."<i></i> Her smile would grow into a grin as her laughter stopped.

"Basically anything we really try to use when it comes to kekkei genkai from Konoha we can use."<i></i> The former medic would shrug. Her knowledge of such things was fairly adept when taking into consideration her medical background and even more so her anbu background. "Makes me want to take another gander at being able to use the Chakra gates. My life span is already shortened already so there is little they can do really."<i></i> Natsuru would shrug, her grin as ever-present as she somehow managed to remain quiet long enough for her brother to finish his full explanation of their situation. So it would seem that they weren't minions of Fate, but a third party. In a way it was the more the merrier, however it also introduced another unknown factor. Her skirmishes had always been solo so far. "So basically a third party that also kills humans and demons at the same time. Sounds rather strange considering what you've said really."<i></i> The former medical ninja would note, her head slowly swaying from side so side as she thought. No matter what she might appear like it wasn't like she wasn't a smart individual, nor was she one to do something very stupid, well at least according to her level of sanity that is.

"Wouldn't that technically make us a fourth party? Demons , humans and the ancients on one side with as the fourth. If you are a half-breed I am likely one as well even if with even more diluted blood, considering we are brother and sister from the same parents. Going from there we are theoretically not of any interest to the ancients in terms of food unless they practice cannibalism. Why would then actively go after you in that case?"<i></i> Natsu would finish her thought pattern, still swaying as she had before. "Oh don't worry about souls. I have no interest in such things. As I said I'm going to continue looking into the Chakra Gates as before. In terms of ideas... well.. I have none. I would suggest finding old allies, but I don't even know where to begin with that."<i></i>

 

[Senju Kazuki]

[col]

"ANBU everywhere are... special in their own way. Heck even I was one once so I should know." Natsuru would note after being told Neophyte had been taken care off. "We are all special. Some more than others." Kazuki would remark. In a way, this line could be credited to the entirety of the Senju Clan. Or just them. They were far from normal. "Basically anything we really try to use when it comes to kekkei genkai from Konoha we can use." the former Medic would state. She got it right. There was a limitless potential in the amount of different genetic traits they could exhibit. The genetic pool was so varied, they even had ancient genes mixed in there. Of course, no single individual could show more than one, given that most of then would surface as recessive traits, with a single dominant one. It was why the ashen haired woman showed to be a Hyuuga, while her brother had been a Tsuchimikado. "Yes. Even bloodlines commonly shown in different countries are not entirely out of the picture, either." the Senju Overlord would tell her. Time would tell if he was correct or not. There was no telling how much crossbreeding had happened in their past.

"Makes me want to take another gander at being able to use the Chakra gates. My life span is already shortened already so there is little they can do really" Natsuru would mention. Yes, the fabled Chakra Gates. A shortcut for tremendous power, but with a severe cost. The White Wolf would shake his head. "They would further shrink your lifespan. Are you willing to pay the cost?" the silvery haired man would question. He would not attempt to dissuade her, but she had to be fully aware of the implications. Hopefully she would reached a decision knowing all angles.

"So basically a third party that also kills humans and demons at the same time. Sounds rather strange considering what you've said really." Natsuru would surmise Reaper's explanation of the Ancient's nature and their role in the world. He would nod. She was almost correct. "Wouldn't that technically make us a fourth party? Demons , humans and the ancients on one side with as the fourth. If you are a half-breed I am likely one as well even if with even more diluted blood, considering we are brother and sister from the same parents. Going from there we are theoretically not of any interest to the ancients in terms of food unless they practice cannibalism. Why would then actively go after you in that case?" she would further add. "Potentially we are all halfbreeds." the Occult Sennin would begin explaining. "But just like you are a Hyuuga and I was a Tsuchimikado, despite being brother and sister, not everyone will awaken their dormant Ancient genes. I did mine, but there might be no other individual throughout the entire Senju history."

"Technically, you are correct. There are four sides in the equation. I, and others like me, represent a bridge between Humanity and Ancient kind. We are not part of either. And the reason they are after me, is because I have sided with Man. The time of the Ancients is over. They are a dying breed, nearly extinct. No, they will not consume me. They see cannibalism as a very serious offense. In fact, they had an entire court that dabbled in it. The leader of their Court eventually consumed them all and began doing so with other Courts. It took the combined effort of them all to end this mad reign. I believe they fear me, or the path I have walked all my life, since it is a parallel with that cursed Court. After all, I have been absorbing the souls of my fellow man for sometime now." he would continue. And he would hesitate to absorb their essence either. He did not want them to be extinct, but he also could not afford having them destroy this village.

"Oh don't worry about souls. I have no interest in such things. As I said I'm going to continue looking into the Chakra Gates as before. In terms of ideas... well.. I have none. I would suggest finding old allies, but I don't even know where to begin with that" Natsuru would offer no suggestions. Kazuki would smirk. "If you are so adamant on learning how to open the Gates, I think I can find you a teacher or two. Seek Toraono Kuro or Roku. Both of them can share some pointers with you. If not more." the Senju Overlord would share with her. As knowledgeable as he was, Kuro showed to be on his level, if not above. Certainly he would have something to teach her.

"As of this moment, you are free to go as you please. Just show them the Senju sigil and you will be fine. Although not part of the village, I make sure everyone consider you part of it. You will have the same regulations applied to you as it to us. The Prison is off limits, but everywhere else is fair grounds for you. If, despite the sigil, you still have problems entering any place, besides the correctional facilities of Sunagakure, tell whoever to contact the Sennin Senju Kazuki. I will sort it out." the White Wolf would announce. He was not exactly sending her away, but it was pointless to prolong this conversation into the infinity. She needed freedom and time to adjust. Forcing her to stay there was counterproductive. Time to be free Sister. Time to be free.​

|[legend="[[url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qMBans8jyM][b][u]Kazuki's Approach[/u][/b][/url]]"]

Senju Kazuki – Occult Sennin

[/legend][/col]

 

[Uka]

"Safe to say out ancestors were breeding like rabbits in that case."<i></i> She would shrug, letting out a chuckle in the process. "We might be related to half the living ninja for all we know at this rate."<i></i> Natsu would offer him a grin as she still swayed from side to side as if to the rhythm of a slow tune. It was funny really. It really was. Normally clans would end up guarding their bloodline, however for some reason theirs was just, well mixed to say the very least. The rabbit metaphor might actually be quite the amazing fit to describe their actual situation. At the end of the day that mattered little to their situation. It seemed like there would be more trouble and as per usual it followed her brother wherever he went. Well no matter. At the end of the day she would continue working as hard as usual to stop that trouble from actually causing any trouble.

"To summarise everything is a big mess and a lot of people will end up dying. Nothing out of the ordinary in our lives it would seem."<i></i> Natsu would shrug yet again as she let out a mock sigh, quickly following it with a light chuckle. "Well no matter. If you need me for anything you know how to find me better than I do quite a lot of the time. I will keep the names Kuro and Roku in mind and I will try to keep quiet about things whilst in the village. It might be better if I stick to not being a shinobi for the time being. It is somewhat relaxing to not have somebody breathing down your neck all the time."<i></i> Her smile would shrink from a grin to a half-smile, slightly more relaxed than the one she always wore as her gaze dropped back down to the floor for a few moments as her thoughts arranged into a more usable form. There was a few things she had to do now that she had ended up finding herself as a non-combatant, or at least pretending to be one, and being at least mostly free to do as she pleases. Firstly it was a matter of a few new sets of clothing and a way to hide her identity if things came to that. Her presence would be more beneficial to her brother that way. Ah it was a shame that her old mask was no longer in her possession. That thing would be rather beneficial. "I suppose it is rather pointless asking you about clothes shops so I won't bother. There is one thing that springs to mind. You did say that you were a Sennin, Nii, but you didn't mention of what."<i></i> She would note, bringing her right hand up to her chin, wrapping her hands around it as she carefully considered the idea. "It would be handy to be able to appear as a non-combatant whilst being myself and having a way to spring to action without destroying that. Say having an identity nobody would normally question. I would just find a mask to use, but that might just plain brand me as a vigilante. Too bad there is no way to take on somebody elses identity in that regard."<i></i> Natsuru was rather blatantly hinting towards him being in a position to provide such an identity. She didn't know if he was, but her brother had been one of the strongest anbu back in leaf and if that kept true there was a possibility he was their Sennin here. It was all a matter of finding the correct dead person to take their place.

 

[Senju Kazuki]

[col]

”Safe to say our ancestors were breeding like rabbits in that case.” Natsuru would shrug as she chuckled. ”We might be related to half the living ninja for all we know at this rate.” The ashen haired woman would offer Kazuki a grin. Apparently she found the rabbit metaphor a funny thing. The Senju Overlord would shook his head. ”You know are a clan that accepts outsiders if they prove to be of the strong type. Weaklings are not accepted and, probably, will never be. Other than that, everyone is welcome to become a Senju and share our fate.” the White Wolf would remind her. It seemed, although the memories had returned, she still missed some information pertaining to the clan’s inner workings. The Senju clan had never denied anyone to become part of it. They only needed to pass a test to show worthiness. It was why they had the ability to show such varied genetic traits.

”To summarize everything is a big mess and a lot of people will end up dying. Nothing out of the ordinary in our lives it would seem.” the former Medic would note as he mockingly sighed. To which the silvery haired man would nod in reply. ”Well no matter. If you need me for anything you know how to find me better than I do quite a lot of time. I will keep the names Kuro and Roku in mind and I will try to keep quiet about things whilst in the village. It might be better if I stick to not being a shinobi for te time being. It is somewhat relaxing to not have somebody breathing down your neck all the time.” ”I cannot promise either man will teach you anything worthwhile, but they are a good bet for you find knowledge about the chakra gates. Kuro in particular should prove to have some insight about the matter. I don’t know if the Kazekage knows anything about that, but you can consult him later on. Takahashi Sousuke is that man, if the other two cannot help you. I will also study about it and I will share what I can in due time.” Reaper would promise. What kind of brother and Senju would it be, if he did not help his sister to increase in power?

”I suppose it is rather pointless asking you about clothes shops so I won’t bother. There is one thing that springs to mind. You did say that you were a Sennin, Nii, but you didn’t mention of what.” the former Leaf shinobi would inquire. Ah, yes, she was not familiar with Sunagakure’s hierarchy. In Konohagakure, the Sennins used to be the leaders of the three branches. ANBU, Main Branch and Medic. Sand did not follow such ranking system. Sennins still existed but they were advisors to the Kage, and not leaders of the branches. Although they could still exert authority over the ANBU, Medics and the like, they were not their commanders. ”Shops of all sorts can be found at the bazaar. There you will find anything you need. You can use my funds if necessary.” the Occult Sennin would state. ”Sennins in Sunagakure are not leaders of branches. We are advisors to the Kage. Although I have lead the ANBU branch for a brief time, I no longer do so.” the Ancient Halfbreed would clarify. Of course he still had his ANBU Captain persona in active duty, but that was a secret to most, even to his own sister.

b]”It would be handy to be able to appear as a non-combatant whilst being myself and having a way to spring to action without destroying that. Say having an identity nobody would normally question. I would just find a mask to use, but that might just plain brand me as a vigilante. Too bad there is no way to take on somebody else’s identity in that regard.”[/b] the Hyuuga would hint toward being an unofficial ANBU so she could move around freely. ”What you are asking is to become an ANBU. But to become an ANBU, you would have to be affiliated to the village, something you don’t want. I will have to think about it. For the time being, avoid any kind of fighting situation until we can sort out if what you are asking is possible.” What she was asking was forbidden and dangerous. The risk could prove to not be worthy enough. If she was a Suna shinobi, he would not had hesitated to make her an AiT, but as it was, he had to consider it well.

"Now go and discover the village. It is time for you to get acquainted with it." Kazuki would declared. He was not exactly sending away, even though it seemed so. But he needed time to think and, with her there, he could not.

[Topic Left Unless Stopped]
[You’re free to go as you please in the village]​

|[legend="[[url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qMBans8jyM][b][u]Kazuki's Approach[/u][/b][/url]]"]

Senju Kazuki – Occult Sennin

[/legend][/col]