Event The Night of the Sennin Games Dinner

[Raizo]

This was a mistake.

It was the only thing she could think of as she affixed a mask upon her face. After scanning through the book the mystery man had given her in the Commercial District, she started to notice that there were actually notes hidden within it, but without a proper cipher, it was still tricky fully figuring out what the messages truly were. One thing she was able to crack from the hidden message was something about "those in masks break bread in Wanderlust Tavern". Since the note she was given specifically mentioned the tavern, she assumed it wasn't a coincidence.

But they could have told me that, instead of leaving it up to the chance of me finding it. This means they didn't want me to enter, either way, I should still remain masked.

She would find herself posted in an alleyway that gave a clear line of sight to the Wanderlust Tavern.

"Itsuke, this is Yukina. I am going radio silent. If you do not hear from me within an hour send an escort to the Red Lights District. I am attempting a little cleanup."

With that, she would turn off and remove her headset conceal it within a satchel that she had tied to her waist. Not only was she wearing a mask, but her entire attire was different. She now looked more at home in the Ruins of old Suna... or at least that is what she thought.

Pulling out an alcohol bottle, one that was now filled with water with a hint of the previous beverage to give off an appropriate scent if someone approached her, she would begin to slouch against the wall of the alley. Her eyes would continue to carefully watch as more and more people entered the tavern.

Are these all suspected enemies or are they merely patrons? I need to go in otherwise I will lack the necessary clarity.

Glancing at her wrist she would take note of the time, not only for knowing when she needed to communicate again with Itsuke but also because she knew Raizo would be freaking out at this moment.

He'll be fine. The big dummy could learn from this anyways.

And with that, she would clutch her gimmicked bottle of booze and start to make her way toward Wanderlust.

NPC: Yukina

 

[Sand Council]

Within the Tavern:

Wanderlust was in an uproar. Within the establishment, the house was packed with a variety of characters, those who frequented the depths of the Ruins or had still remained below. The music was loud, the customers were rowdy and the alcohol was flowing. Upon entering, this would be the scene that one would notice, and for most that would be the extent. Those, however, who were in the know would approach the bartender and express an interest in investment. Upon giving them the appropriate response, they would be ushered in to see "management". In reality, they would enter a side room that had been used to host private parties back in the heyday of the tavern. Now, while still hosting a private party, was more so used for shadier business meetings and less for birthdays.

Within the room would be individuals wearing masks, seated, as a figure stood on stage. This figure was known as "The Host".

Spoiler: The Host

"Thank you all for joining us at our final meeting."

There would be some murmuring and jeers.

"The reason this will be the final is that it is finally time to make our move. While all of us have our own part to play, we have collected our Six who will carry the weight of this plan. These six will not be alone, they will have the blessing bestowed upon them from our generous benefactor. A brilliant mind who saw our plight and not only took an interest, not only showed sympathy but showed a willingness to assist the cause no matter what! Even better, our benefactor is here. TONIGHT!"

The crowd would now erupt in cheers as a figure would come out from the back of the stage, also wearing a mask. The Host would bow and pass the mic over to this new figure.

"Thank you. Thank you. Everyone, please take a seat. As our host has stated, I found myself compelled to act, to move to save you all. First, being subjected to not only the vile treatment of the Daimyo but to watch as this village and its inept leadership spilled, squandered, and wasted the holy bloodline of Primus, the Sunahoshi. Now, in its most direct assault upon the heritage of this land, this village chose to abdicate a sitting member of the Sunahoshi, Sunahoshi Katsuo, and usurp him with a bloodline that supported the actions of the previous Daimyo, the Ryuzaki. An outsider not only sits at the head of this village but smears its feet upon the lineage and legacy of a clan they held nothing but contempt for... Ryuzaki's revenge is almost complete. This fool who wears the Kage hat is inching this village closer and closer to total ruin, all to do what they have been trying to do since the beginning; kill the legacy of Primus and make their own."

Anger, vitriol, and more roaring would bellow from the audience.

"Fear not! For I have not only helped designate the Six champions who will help end this silent coup but have brought with my gifts to ensure that Sunagakure no Sato is returned back to the hands of the mighty righteous people."

The Benefactor would pull out a box. The box would be in pristine condition, with finely crafted woodwork, that would be plated in metal from the Takahashi family and etched with runic designs. Upon opening the box, six rings would be seen. Each one with a unique and odd design and an ominous feeling.

"These rings were forged by Takahashi Ino the first Steward of this village. Before Nori was consumed by the goliath sandworm, Barnyx, and before he was ever crowned as the Kazekage, he went through a trial period of nearly two decades. This span of 18 years, following the death of Primus and before the official creation of Suna, is known as the Chaos Era. Within this time Nori fought the remnants of the Ancients, dealt with the Unbent, fought his own kind, humanity, and those who wished to take the seat Primus made, and had to tame the wild beasts of this land. There was another threat, one that never made it into the history books, but during this chaotic period, six demon lords would emerge. Their origin, their creation, their reasoning for why they wished to control Wind Country, none of it was known. They seemed to have remained in hiding in large part due to the power and absolute rule of the Ancient Courts, and their three greatest champions. Upon the upheaval brought about by Primus that led to the downfall and near extinction of the Ancients, these demons decided to act. Nori and Ino were successful in beating the demons. Unbeknownst to them, and while different than Ancients, these creatures had the ability to prolong their existence after death.

In 18PP, the demons would once more rise, albeit weakened from their previous defeat. At this time, the Takahashi and Sunahoshi that stood before them would be Noh, sister of Nori, and Eisuke, son of Ino. Ino warned her son of the dangers of the demon lords and their previous battle. Narrowly, the newly crowned Kazekage and Steward would once more defeat the demons but having learned from their mistakes would attempt a process they were already utilizing with the Ancients they captured; sealing their essence into an item. Ino and Eisuke forged the rings that would house these demons and Noh would take their possession to their grave. As the years passed, and the infighting started within the Sunahoshi and their qualms with those in the eventual Soon's Harbor, these rings would disappear and with them their story.

Thankfully, my ancestor, a great man would come upon these relics. And thus, their story and significance would be maintained and preserved. Now, it is time to make use of these treasures. As I said, within them dwells the power, the essence of the demon lords, who had been locked away for over 200 years. Upon wearing these rings, the bite of a demon lord will be felt, and a merging of power will begin. This process will change the wearer while granting them a great power... and while a horrible fate waits for those who wear these cursed rings, a worse fate awaits Sunagakure no Sato if nothing is done!"

The crowd was now confused, taken back by the story and what it was that was now transpiring. The Benefactor's closing note would however begin to sway their hearts back to the passion they had felt before. This was necessary!

Six individuals would appear on stage.

"These six will wear the rings and will take upon this painful tragedy, in order to end the tragedy that has befallen your once proud village. They are making a sacrifice that will ensure you all will not have to sacrifice anymore. These heroes... they deserve your praise, your adulation, and your support. The more they use the rings, the quicker the curse will consume them, so please, assist them from shadows, however small or indirectly you can, to ensure they complete their goal without complications"

The figures would begin to grab a ring as the crowd would begin to cheer.

Spoiler: The Benefactor and Rings

 

[Raizo]

Making her way into the tavern, the Kagekage's attendant's eyes would begin to quickly scan the area. She would take note of the people, of the establishment's layout, of the doors, of any windows, and their condition. She would take note that there seemed to be a couple of waitresses who would pick up drinks from the bar but also would make their way to double doors and emerge with small snack plates.

That must be the kitchen but unsure of the total staff. Could be one cook, could be more.

Taking a seat, with the mask still upon her face, would bark at the barkeep, "Gimme sumthin' stiff, ya asshole!"

The bartender would pause, giving a look to her that she would refuse to acknowledge out of both fear and embarrassment for what she had just said.

There was no bouncer, but why would there be? There are roughly...

She would spin around her stool at the bar before coming to a stop, "Hurry up, I'm thirsty!"

...30 potential combatants within this area. Most of them are inebriated or look to be lacking proper training, physically so would be fine to assume that their chakra is also unrefined. Probably not many shinobi within this crowd.

The drink would be slammed down in front of her, snapping her out of her headspace, as she would grumpily pull out a couple of yen and toss them to the countertop.

The bartender doesn't seem to be a trained combatant but probably has minimal skills to keep riff-raff in check. Would probably be safe to assume the wait staff may also have some hidden weapons or skills. I find it hard to believe anyone would operate a business down here and not have contingency plans.

"Oi, what the hell is there to eat 'round here?"

She would wait for the bartender to bring her a menu as she would continue scanning the area.

Okay so let's account for some doors. Two of them must be bathrooms, with the worst-case scenario that only one of them is. That still leaves two doors. One could be a staff area... and the other could be the secret meeting area.

She still needed to scope out the situation before making her next move.

NPC - Yukina

 

[Sand Council]

Within the bar:

A figure with long, blue-hued, messy hair would enter and immediately approach the masked female sitting at the bar.

"You know, you should be a bit nicer to the staff."

His words would roll out playfully as a smirk would be plastered upon his face. She would most likely recognize him as the one who approached her previously about this whole ordeal.

"Sir, did you need to bring in the sword--"

"Hey, fuck off! Give me whatever she just had," his hand would slide upon the hilt of the blade mounted at his side, "Sass my accessories again and you will find yourself leaving tonight with a generous... tip."

His words would come off coldly as he would sit down next to Yukina, relaxing a bit.

"Was that a cool line?" he would ask with a look of pride beaming on his face.

"Anyways, what the hell are you doing rolling up in here--I mean I know WHAT you are doing, but why are you doing something so reckless? What even is your plan, Lady--" he would pause and end his sentence there as his drink would arrive.

Taking a sip he would begin his own look around the bar.

"Honestly, this is mostly how it looked on the nights of the previous meeting. It is slightly more people than on their regular nights. Does that mean some present are stationed here as bodyguards and just playing a part or is it a happy coincidence?"

Taking another sip he would begin to stretch out his arm, wrapping it around Yukina and suddenly pulling her close.

"Do you think I am cute?!" would be the word that would come out loudly, but as Yukina was in close he would whisper, "The true fighting power is in the secret meeting room. Care to clue me in on what your next step is now that you are here, Lady Yukina?"

Releasing her he would begin to laugh off the awkward encounter.

She can't possibly expect to just barge in by herself and start apprehending people, right?

---

Within the secret meeting:

The masked man known as The Host would tweak his head a bit before placing a hand up to his ear. While the crowd would continue to cheer on the recent news, The Host would make his way The Benefactor.

"Sir, it seems we have company."

The rings would now be in the possession of the six figures gathered alongside The Benefactor.

"Oh? Perfect. We expected that something along these lines would happen. I'm glad we made sure to stress the importance of tonight in advance."

With that, The Benefactor would turn his attention back once more to the crowd before them.

"Our Hellfire Heroes... Hellfire Six... we can workshop that a bit more," he would note that last part to himself before returning to the larger audience, "Will be getting to work here soon. Again, support them in their efforts in any way that you can. Because of not only the urgency of this operation, and because of my own place in all of this matter, I will be departing and will eagerly await to hear about the new Kazekage of Suna. Until then, I must regretfully say this will be the last you see or hear from me. The reclamation of Suna is one that I support, but because of who I am I cannot step upon your passion and calling with my shoes... one's of an outsider. But my family, my ancestry, has a deep-seated tie to this village that cannot be so easily broken. So please, with all my support, I wish you all the best in this trying time."

With that, he would wave to the crowd and turn his back to them to start his exit from the venue. Before he proceeded, however, he would motion for the six ringbearers to approach.

"A snake is in this garden--again I suggest you be careful and reserved in your use of the rings but tonight might be an interesting opportunity to get a taste of it all. Mr. Host, please follow me to the back."

The host would nod as the six bearers of the Demon Lord Rings would approach the front of the stage.

"Exciting night, shame I will miss the fun... but Mr. Host, I do have one more gift before I leave."

 

[Sand Council]

This thread is open for anyone not currently in the Sennin Games Dinner Party Event

There is no limitation on player rank, this is more an opportunity for you to get caught up in shenanigans here at the onset of the Event Arc

Next round of posting will be in 48 hours​

 

[Raizo]

Listening to his words, she would understand what he was saying. She would understand the risk. She would understand her situation and that it would be better to call in backup.

"Follow me, cover me, or leave me... you do what you want, Ebisu."

It was a guess but Ebisu the Oracle seemed like the most likely choice for who this man was, but that was insignificant in the grander scheme of what she was doing. Standing up from the bar, the masked woman would begin to make her way towards the door that led to the backroom. Her stride was confident, her face was stoic, and her actions were resolute. While she knew that it would have been better to wait for backup, she also knew that allowing time for them to arrive would almost assuredly mean that all the primary players to flee. She now needed to directly confront the situation in hopes of apprehending the ringleader or at the very least uncovering names.

She approached the door, ignoring all calls or questions, ignoring all the glares and anyone who might be motioning to make a move. Her hand would reach out for the handle of the door but would pause, turning around to look at the main gallery of the bar patrons behind her.

"Anyone gonna get the door for a lady?"

This was the point of no return.

NPC - Yukina

 

[Sand Council]

At first, he would be caught off guard, as it would seem she had figured out his "true" appearance. He was in fact the Oracle known as Ebisu, one of the 7 Fortunate Ones. Hiding behind the mask was easy for him as his early life was plagued with a strange illness that debilitated his body and use of chakra, making him worthless as a shinobi. Finding the Oracle Order allowed the shut-in, someone who felt useless in the village, to find a new purpose. His minimal need for chakra, and his ability to fixate and observe, all were things this new role would allow him to maximize. So he abandoned the life he was born into, leaving his name and 'body' to be documented as someone who had dropped out of the academy and was now bedridden in the care of his family, to freely live as Ebisu.

His expression would quickly change to exacerbated, however, as he would watch as Yukina would start to immediately make her way to the door.

"Wait!"

---

As the masked woman began to make her way to the door, several within the bar would immediately stand up. These were not regulars of this tavern but were instead hired guns to protect some of those who resided behind the door the woman was approaching. Weapons would start to be drawn and chakra would begin to mold and manipulate.

"Miss! Wait! Stop!" the bartender would plead, all the while drawing a club from under the bar.

Even those who were actually here to just enjoy the drinks and ambiance of the dingy establishment would start to gather up and prepare to pounce on the woman, with a few more who lacked any bloodlust either remain seated, passed out, or would quickly make an exit from the establishment.

---

The Benefactor, who had now exited the back of the bar with The Host, would turn on a communication device.

"Please arrange in formation CAGE and await my mark."

From the shadows, three figures in all black would appear outside of the Tavern and be arranged in a triangle-like formation around the exterior of the building. They would wait.

"Now, as I was saying; while the mysticism of this country is very real, the ability to splice in science to master such a thing... well that is the world we are moving quickly towards and that is why I need you to hold on to this item..."

-----

Within the hidden meeting room, while many of the gathered guests had already left, the six who had received a demon lord ring now stood defiantly upon the stage. Their sights were set on the door that Yukina had approached and the anticipation and tension were reaching a boiling point as they awaited to see if tonight they were going to have a chance to test out the rings.

---

"GET'ER!"

Would be the war cry, most likely from a non-mercenary, non-bodyguard, most like just some confused drunk who got swept up, but it would immediately send the crowd rushing towards Yukina.

---

"Damn it! Lady Yu---Hey, Lady! I'm not much for a fight but I will get some backup and secure the rear exit... because this has quickly moved past where we can reasonably control it!"

Ebisu would say, clutching the hilt of his sword but not drawing it. With a sigh he began to head to the door, pushing aside several who stood in his way, in an attempt to leave the Tavern.

 

[Raizo]

It would appear that many of the individuals present were willing to help her with the door. All of them seemed eager as they began to charge, most with physical attacks but she would keep her eyes out and awareness for those who hug back and seemed to be preparing mid-range to long-range attacks.

So some of them were chakra users, guess my hunch was right.

"Bad manners are a turn-off..."

She would say in a devious tone as a wicked smile would unfurl upon her face. It wasn't often that she got to let loose, and it had honestly been years since she even attempted combat in a live scenario.

Hopefully, I won't be too rusty...

The veins upon her body began to constrict, tighten, and engorge with blood making them more visible. Her muscles would tighten and compact, making her body look leaner but very defined. Entering a pose, she would begin to channel her chakra as prepared to use the Zaiken Style.

Her feet would push off the ground causing the flooring to tear up from the sheer force as she would sprint head-on to the pack of her assailants. She would take several attacks, from fists, weapons, and improvised weapons, that would seem to bounce off her hardened flesh, as the force of their attacks would rebounded back at them as she let loose a punch that seemed to be amplified by not only her unnatural strength but the damage attempted to be dealt to her. The force of the attack would essentially be a burst of air pressure, except for the one unfortunate soul she made direct contact with, pushing the group away from her in a semi-circle radius.

"Gonna need to bulk up a bit, boys--"

Before she could continue her taught, a blast of fire chakra would connect with her, knocking her back across the bar, and slamming her into various tables and chairs.

"Appreciate the kiss... but it's kinda creepy to just watch me from afar..."

Once more her strength would push up from the ground and cause the area around her to shatter in the explosion of the force she exerted. Within a moment, she would be upon the long-distance ninjutsu user, with a wild expression on her face as she bared down upon them.

"I like a man who isn't afraid to get close!"

The impact from her next punch would cause blood to almost instantaneously erupt from the face of her target, but would once more send a shock wave rippling throughout the area, pushing others off their feet. She would show no mercy and would continue her march by attacking each person within the bar who made the mistake of giving her a cross look.

Taking hold of one of the caught off guard would-be attackers, she would take hold of them and utilize the taijutsu method of throwing, to huck the poor fool like a kunai at the back door to the meeting room that they seemed to be protecting.

"Stop making me wait! Get your asses out here and let's dance!"

NPC - Yukina

 

[Sand Council]

The figures on the stage would turn their attention towards the ruckus coming from the main area of the tavern.

"Lady Yukina is as rambunctious as ever, huh?"

"Bitch has been needing to have her ass handed to her for a while!"

"You are too vulgar."

"Oi... you think that's too vulgar?!"

"I am merely here to collect the ring, I do not wish to be involved in this. She doesn't like to be kept wai--"

"Leave then, lap dog. Your lack of resolve is diminishing the moment. She has come on her own and seems set on handling this on her own; as a matter of pride we should honor her conviction."

With that, 4 of the 6 would put their rings on and feel a small prick upon their flesh. Soon an ominous chakra would begin to seep into their body, starting from the ring finger and circulating throughout. It would be slow at first, not too overwhelming, but noticeable.

1 of the 2 who did not was the one who mentioned they were there to collect the ring for another. The other would speak.

"I actually will be joining this little messenger bird on the outside, my brother is waiting for me and I have a different approach for how my ring will be utilized. So, tata!"

"COWARD!"

"Let him go. I don't even know why he was selected in the first place."

With that, the 2 who did not place on their ring would leave.

---

"Please lower the CAGE."

Upon this signal the three figures who had appeared, clad in solid black attire from head to toe, would begin to perform a series of hand seals as a black structure would encase the tavern completely (Black Blockade).

"And sadly, the curtain will be dropping on the fair, Yukina."

"WAIT!"

The yell would come from a heavily breathing Ebisu, who had managed to make it out of the tavern in time before the barrier was constructed. His was still sheathed by his grip tightened upon it.

"Oh? It seems we finally have the answer for who the rat was, Mr. Host."

The masked figure known as The Host would nod.

"Mr. Host, please run along. You have your instructions, I trust you to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible within the village."

The Benefactor would smirk and nod back as Mr. Host would quickly depart.

"Let's see... Ebisu of the Oracles? In reality, Watanabe Koji. Poor of weak body, you exited the academy before failing. Somehow, during your time as a supposed civilian, you entered the Oracle Order and rose through the ranks. How curious, I really would like to know what's missing in your history..."

"How... how do you know about that?"

"You must have thought that being born with an overly fragile body was a curse, yet you then found a way to aid in erasing your identity. Koji becoming a civilian, who cares about him anymore?"

"Who the hell are you?"

"A man with a plan... and the means, the drive, and the cunning to accomplish it. As for your information, one of your Oracle friends figured out your secret, unfortunately, it was one that is now aligned with my plan. Sorry~"

"It doesn't matter... let Yukina go and you can run off to whatever evil lair you have."

"How generous... but Ebisu the Hero? Not fitting of your calling, Mr. Oracle. You shouldn't be getting involved, you should be documenting a turning point in history."

Ebisu's grip on his blade's hilt would loosen up.

"I see, so the calling runs that deep, huh? Listen, I don't wish to see you harmed, I honestly didn't really wish to see Ms. Yukina harmed... all of this is a small picture of something much larger. However, Yukina's death will be a very fitting catalyst for Ryuzaki Raizo's expedited fall."

The Benefactor would raise up his left arm, showcasing a rather large-looking watch-like item wrapped around his wrist. He would begin to tinker around with it.

"Listen, Koji. Let's just forgo this. I'm not here to boast some almighty power or that I am some unstoppable force... that feels like a Daimyo Ishii move. No, I am merely a scientist... and the science is in my favor when it comes to a battle between the two of us, I'm afraid."

Just then two more figures would appear as a sharp line appeared within the Black Blockade. From the line, the wall would split open. The opening would be roughly smaller than a door threshold but still enough for two figures to emerge from it.

"Oh, can't say I expected that. Where are you two off to so early?"

"I must meet with my brother, and this little carrier pigeon is bringing a ring to his beloved Mistress."

---

The dark chakra pulsating within the four wearers of the rings would continue to grow, to the point it was starting to ooze out from their bodies. All within the tavern would begin to feel the dreadful aura as it infested the air. Those weak in will, those unable to mold chakra, and those who just weren't ready, would begin to feel a tight grip wrapping around their throats.

From the broken door, the one Yukina has just damaged by throwing a fool through it would come a wave of jet black chakra... and then four figures, who were merely twisted versions of their once human appearance, would appear.

"Yukina...how about that dance?"

 

[Raizo]

Her muscles would tense, her chakra would begin to mold at a rapid pace, and she would let out a gutteral yell as she rushed forward...

---

She was born into a family with a Ryuzaki father and a mother who had joined the clan. Her branch was far distant from that of the Konungr's line, of Raizo's line. She and Raizo were born at roughly the same time but for her to ever just reach a point where she could see the perch that he was destined for, well it would have taken something extraordinary. That's not to say she was tossed into some pitiful caste within the clan, no, it was more so that some branches were destined for a more average existence. There was nothing wrong with that. The remarkable led the clan, led operations, and branches of the clan, but the average member, the true bulk of the clan, made everything work within those visions.

So she was never talked down to or discouraged, she was on a very respectable pace to be what the clan needed from her.

"Her endurance and you say you have nothing in your line that would explain it?"

It was a question she remembered from the early days of being a toddler, it was a question asked by the Konungr, Oga, to her own father. Apparently, when compared to most her age, she was physically gifted. She seemed stronger, she was able to take a bump without any registered damage. She was suddenly becoming something more than what her lot was originally designed for her. Oga, Raizo's father, noticed it. From that point onward, her and several other gifted children were added to a special class that was instructed by the Konungr and the Vulcanus, the head of the primary Sub Branch of the clan. The two of them saw promise in this group, something she would later realize was an attempt by Oga to mimic what he knew of the Sunagakure no Sato ANBU Corps. In a similar way, they were becoming specialized tools for the clan, ones that were drastically different than the normal warriors raised by the Ryuzaki. She, at the time, didn't understand the difference.

It wasn't until she was older, after carrying out a mission to silence a dissenter of the previous Daimyo, that she began to realize why Oga wanted his own ANBU and to what end they were truly building towards. His ANBU, his RAGNAROK, was merely a mercenary squad to carry out his interests and keep the Ryuzaki off the radar of others. Additionally, they were being used to assist his friend, Daimyo Ishii Shiro. Yet, Oga had found something special in her, he found something of great value in her, so even in moments when her heart waivered or questioned, she would always be reminded of how he viewed her.

It was cemented when he was introduced to Raizo. Again, they were the same age, born roughly at the same time, but Oga appointed her to be his personal guard.

"Publicly you are his attendant, as that is a more formal role within the clan, but in actuality, my dear Yukina, you are so much more than that. You are the shield and spear of the future of the Ryuzaki, and in my eyes there is nothing more important than protecting that... or whose duty it is to ensure that."

Once more, by the same man, she would be found to be special. Her role was no longer the ambiguous work of RAGNAROK, although she would continue with that from time to time, but was now the more concrete and less grey duty of protecting Raizo.

He was a bit goofy, a bit too kindhearted, and a bit too childlike; he almost seemed the furthest from what she saw in his father. Oga was intense, serious, and driven to achieve whatever he wanted to achieve. Raizo, on the other hand, seemed happy just eating lunch that day. She questioned how such a figure could be the future of the clan or why Oga, who could have chosen another child, would place his faith in him. Each day she would watch him, like some fragile bird, and wonder "why him".

It would then happen. Not all at once, more like a moment of slowly opening your eyes after a deep sleep. It would be blurry and faint at first, but over time it would become steady and clear. Each day, Raizo would do something that would seemingly feel out of character; use his judgement to solve a dispute amongst peers, offer a compliment to an older clan member, or take the burden for someone else to keep them from being in trouble. Each day, what seemed out of character just simply became his character. Raizo was selfless, he was good, and he cared deeply for people. It wasn't necessarily Oga, but that didn't seem like a negative. In fact, he caused her to question what Raizo would have done with her if he had been in Oga's place. Would he have created RAGNAROK and utilized her as a weapon or would he have found a different value in her, one that was less about war?

As their bond grew, she began to reassess her role as his guard. She no longer wanted to protect him for Oga's reasons but wanted to protect him for what Raizo could have actually done. She would help him weather the storm of his father, who seemed to miss the impact Raizo could have had and seemed more interested in molding him into a version of himself. Oga was selfish, Raizo was selfless. Either way, the end goal was the same, no matter if it was for Oga or Raizo, so she could remain in the good graces of the Konungr, he would never realize her allegiance had truly changed.

Once they made it to Sunagakure no Sato, she began to see the small pieces of Raizo's true potential start to shine through. While she wanted him to bring that back to the Ryuzaki, she knew it would be best for him to truly find himself here, away from Oga, and then come back to their clan to reform it. It might not have been fully was Raizo wanted, and it would not be something she would mention to him, but as long as she was by his side it would always be her end goal.

He laughed more and openly, and so did she. He got to help people, not just simply prepare them for war. Each passing day with him and in Suna was almost like a dream. This, she thought, is what life could have been like without Oga. She owed a lot to him, but it was now clear, more than ever, that his path was one that did not truly benefit the clan, his people. Raizo's path would. She knew it. She couldn't wait to see it. That is, if she'd be able to see it...

Wait, why am I thinking about this now... why am I thinking about this like a book is ending or a chapter is closing... why am I thinking about it like I might not be there...

---

Coughing up blood, her body would already have signs of various large bruises appearing. She lay on the floor, covered in the debris of broken tables, chairs, ceiling, and various other bar things. A few feet away from her was a strong presence of demonic energy. She couldn't keep her eyes open much longer.

NPC - Yukina

 

[Sand Council]

"Fine, fine... I suppose you are free to do whatever you wish. Yukina can't handle four of my gifts alone, so either way it's a moot point."

The Benefactor would say in a blase way.

"How callous the mighty Zenin Ryuo is, newly appointed Merchant Lord" Ebisu would say definitely with his sword now drawn.

"Oh?" the masked man would ask inquisitively as his attention would snap back to the unmasked Oracle, "So you DID know who I am?"

"No. In fact, I don't think any of us know who Zenin Ryuo really is. I did some digging on you, once I assumed you were responsible for supporting this movement, and up until the sudden rise of the Golden Sanctuary Merchants Guild, there was nothing else of note about you. Not even a birth certificate. So, again, I ask; who are you?"

"Akihiko, gopher, please step aside or leave outright" The Benefactor would say as he began to remove his suit coat, loosen and remove his tie, and finally start to roll up the sleeves of his button-up shirt, "It seems I need to educate our Oracle friend here on sticking to writing what he sees and not investigative journalism."

"Hah, so there is something you are hiding about your past... if I could have just figured out what it was, I could have really ruined your plans."

Letting out a sigh, Ryuo would begin to mock applaud Ebisu, "Congratulations, Ebisu, you were this close to nabbing me... let's be real, my past, my future plans, both of those are inconsequential. Right now, for you, there should be no worry other than our present. Like I said, the science is on my side, this is a battle you can't win. So allow me to offer a counter-proposal."

As he spoke, Ryuo would begin to twist and press the strange watch-like contraption on his wrist, the screen would seemingly change wording but Ebisu could not make out what it was.

"There we go--so like I was saying, put down your sword--"

Before he could finish, a bright light would begin to emanate from before him, it was like a flood light was being turned on in this dark night setting. In a striking pose, Ebisu stood with his blade drawn, chakra wildly flooding into it to the point that it wasn't just glowing, but that it was pulsating with a fiery blue energy.

"My body was weak, my chakra coils were all sorts of messed up from birth, but during my period of hiding, pretending to be a civilian, I learned a neat trick I could use. Sure, I found the Oracles, but my neat trick was my ace up my sleeve. I couldn't use chakra like a shinobi, but I could throw all of my chakra into one attack. Seems wreckless right? I could never be a shinobi with that sort of limitation on my chakra efficiency, so I was fine remaining just an Oracle... but if I ever needed to, I always knew I could take care of at least one problem."

Quickly, using just his physical strength as all of his chakra was in his blade, he would charge forward. His momentum would stop, still a distance away from Ryuo.

"Need to be a bit closer, if only you could have used chakra in your legs--" Before he could finish he would find himself stunned by a sudden realization

"Personal Arts: Forbidden Technique - All or Nothing Strike!" Ebisu would yell as he would raise and swing down his blade with all his might. Even though he was away from Ryuo, the slash would send a massive wave from chakra, all of the chakra from his body, cutting forward towards Ryuo.

The ground would have a tear cut through it as the force pushed loose items away as it passed. Ryuou would quickly press a button on the side of his wrist device.

"Shit--help!" he would yell as a ninja figure clad in all black would immediately appear before him, a figure that appeared in the same attire as those who were currently constructing the barrier jutsu to keep the Tavern, and Yukina, confined.

The figure in all black would take the brunt of the attack, but wouldn't stand a chance to completely block it. The body of the ninja would be cleaved in two as the remaining chakra slash would continue cutting forward. Still messing with his wrist device, the panicked Ryuo attempted to move backward, but the attack was not slowing down. Within a split second, the wave of energy would be upon him, connecting cleanly. While the ninja would have served the purpose of absorbing some of the attacks for him, the attack that still remained would be enough to send a large diagonal gash across the upper body of Ryuo, to the point that there would be a literal space between his shoulder and where his neck would meet. Not just that portion of the clavicle bone, but flesh, blood, portions of his sternum and rib cage, and the top portion of one of his lungs all seemed to have been completely torn through or outright missing. Blood would sputter out of his mouth as Ryuo's body would crash into a dump and come to a stop.

Breathing heavily, as his sword would drop from his hands, Ebisu would fall to one knee. His eyes, suddenly feeling heavy, would love over to Akihiko and the messenger.

"Don't mind me, I'm just curious to see how this all ends right quick" the businessman would say in a matter-of-fact way.

Ebisu, on the other hand, was assessing what sort of threat the two might pose. He knew that Akihiko, because of his stature in the village, wouldn't just let him go with this information on his involvement. Then, he had to figure out what to do to help Yukina and escape the monsters within the tavern.

"As I was saying--"

In disbelief, Ebisu's attention would turn to Ryuo. Ryuo's wound instantly starts to heal as another ninja in black appears, with a wound similar to that of what Ryuo had suffered, and immediately collapse to the ground.

"--drop your sword-" he would pause and see the weapon on the ground, "-check- and join me I will show you something historical coming to Wind Country. I mean, as I said earlier, that is what you Oracles thirst after, correct?"

He would assess the look on Ebisu's face and then at the dead body next to him. Suddenly, from the watch-like device on his wrist, a small cylinder-like item would be expelled from it. The item would roll across the ground as steam was still coming off of it.

"Oh, sure, let me clear that up. I call it my Scientific Arts... techniques made possible by merging the magic world of chakra with the practical world of scientific ingenuity. This little device-" he would shake his wrist, "-paired with this netting-" he would pull aside his now ripped shirt and expose a strange glowing netting that seemed to be covering at least his upper body, "-allows me to mimic a wide range of techniques and abilities, like just now I call that Scientific Arts: Faux Jashinism! Like I said, the science just didn't back you in a fight with me."

He would casually begin to approach the fallen Ebisu, who now turned his attention to the blockaded Tavern.

"Ah, yes, let's see what happened in there, shall we?" Tapping his communication device he would command, "Raise the cage."

And like that, the Black Blockade would disperse.

"See, that's why you don't leave early. I'll be off now!" and with that, Akihiko would disappear.

---

As the barrier dropped, a figure came crashing through the wall and slid out a few feet away from Ebisu. To his horror, it would be the broken body of Yukina.

Inside the Tavern, the four demonic-infused figures would stand, their appearances obscured as they remained inside the locale.

"What should we do with her?"

"Allow me to take care of that, I need the four of you to clean up the mess in the tavern. There shouldn't be any survivors, and maybe burn the place to the ground?"

"Why would we slaughter them? Some of them are members of our cause..."

"Your demonic rings, the demons within them, grow stronger when you feed them souls. Each life you take while wearing the ring receives a curse, a blight on their soul, and is consumed by the ring. The more you kill, the stronger the demon, and the stronger you are. Get it?"

There would be a pause, but reluctantly, some more than others, the four figures would begin to slaughter those who still lived within the Tavern.

Ryuo would begin to make his way over to the fallen body of Yukina, taking up the sword of Ebisu in the process.

"Goodnight, Ms. Yukina."

"Wait! Stop! Spare her and I will do whatever you ask!"

The sword would freeze in the air, Ryuo stopping his stabbing motion.

"Oh?"

 

[Chikamatsu Suisen]

The sound of clashing attacks and destruction of property caught the attention of one of the Kankoshi that served the Omni Prime Medical Facility. She was on a mission, or rather trying to remain on a mission as she had lost track of the Hybrid known as Ryuu Tama.

Stepping into the tavern? Unaware of what was transpiring her emotionless face would survey the room before locking onto Yukino’s body.

As the man with the blade would ponder a statement that was not heard by the homunculus she would extend her arms and cause a barrier to form over the body of the unmoving woman.

”My apologies. I do not wish to interrupt, but my internal protocol is to assess the situation and provide medical assistance to all who need it, starting with the most urgent. If everyone could be so kind and stand back so that I may tend to my patient, I, and the entirety of the Omni Prime Medical Facility staff, would appreciate the cooperation.”

She would take a single step into the room as a grey replica of the woman would appear. A Medical Clone was summoned though they weren’t identical. The Kankoshi model Homunculus would summon a Hosa model Homunculus to provide assistance.

”I am a Medic of the Omni Prime Medical Facility, model name “Kankoshi”, and assisting me today will be my temporary Nurse’s Aide, model name “Hosa”. If anyone were to find the care provided to be subpar in any manner, please contact the Omni Prime Medical Facility to report your dissatisfaction. If there are no qualms with this course of action, I must insist that I begin to administer first aide or I fear a life will be lost.“

 

[Sand Council]

As someone would arrive on the scene to begin to attempt some medical help, even though most in the area were either hostile or dead, The Benefactor would shrug.

"How fortunate for you" he would say as he stepped over Yukina's body and towards Ebisu.

Since the medical member entered the tavern, it would take her, or her clone, some time to reach where they were, where Yukina laid, so he did not feel particularly rushed. Even so, he would motion for the 'gopher' to join him and would turn his attention to the hole in the wall Yukina had been knocked through earlier.

"Could the one of you with the 'doors' please work your magic?"

---

The homunculi nurse, and her medical clone, would enter the tavern and see a scene of carnage. Bodies laid dead upon the ground, blood splattered everywhere, and furniture and pieces of the building completely destroyed. The only moving, the only living, things left in the building would be four figures who were so twisted by the demonic energy that it would be difficult to tell they were once human. Their eyes would lock on her, as it seemed they would need to clean up yet another loose end still in the tavern.

But then they would hear the Benefactor call out to them. One figure would place their claw-like hands together.

"Devil Arts - Forbidden Door: Free Passage"

Suddenly a door would appear before the bearers of the Demon Lord rings. The door would be dark, ancient, and ominous. It would open, showing a void of nothingness, as the four demonic figures would enter it. The door would slam shut and sink back into the ground leaving a line burned into the ground where the threshold once was.

---

The Benefactor, now with Ebisu slung over his shoulder and the person holding the ring for the final sixth wearer would now be standing next to him.

The same ominous door from within the tavern would now appear before them. It would open, showing the dark void once more.

"No hard feelings, Yukina. I don't personally care if you live or die" his words would be ambivalent, as he didn't care what her outcome was, as she wasn't important in his eyes. At least she wasn't important for the big picture.

And with that, he would step through the door, along with the gopher. The door would slam shut and disappear once more.

---

Once crossing the threshold, The Benefactor and his party would appear in a large space full of many different doors. The wearer of the demon rings would be waiting.

"Please open up a spot for myself and my new friend here to end up at the Golden Sanctuary. Drop this one-" he would point to the lap dog of the sixth ring bearer, "off some, I don't care where honestly. And then get yourselves to the Sennin Games house immediately. It will already be suspicious enough anyways, but the confusion that will happen should play to your favor for the time being."

With that, the Benefactor and Ebisu, now passed out, would enter a door taking them to their location. The person holding on to the ring temporarily would end up just outside of Omni-Prime. The four demon ring holders would eventually end up just outside of the house hosting the Sennin Games first round.

---

The figures dressed in black, the ones who were located outside of the tavern, who had encased it in the black blockade earlier, would not waste time as the medics entered the tavern. They would quickly begin to cast fire jutsu upon the outside of the building, causing it to catch fire from several different locations. They would then disappear just as quickly and silently as they had appeared.

OOC: Event NPCs have left, the tavern is on fire, all the people inside the tavern are dead, Yukina is outside of the tavern and on death's door. Please choose to do whatever you like; save Yukina, put out the fire, try to do both, etc.

 

[Raizo]

Yukina lay on the ground. Blood was exiting her body at a rapid pace from several locations, but the worst of it was a large and deep gash from her right shoulder down to her left hip, and from a large laceration that started from her left temple and went around to the back of her head. Outside of that, her body already had several large visible bruises, indicating heavy internal bleeding, and her pulse and breathing were both going faint.

She did not hear the words of the departing benefactor, the words shared between Ebisu and him, or any other noise. All she could hear was muffled sounds and her breathing. All she could see were unfocused colors, but those were rapidly fading to black.

[NPC - Yukina]

 

[Kureji]

Smoke filled the air... Sumire knew that something was up. She would spot a medical ninja hovering over a girl. Taking a quick look over at the injured girl, Sumire would assume that this was not some freak cooking accident that evolved into a fire. Her stomach twisted into a knot as she stared down at the fire. She doesn't know any water jutsu... People were panicking, running away. Sumire took a deep breath, as much as the current atmosphere would allow, and form hand seals. Three clones would poof into existence as she herself would rush into the burning tavern.

The real Sumire would do her best to drag any bodies out of the tavern. Even if a person is dead, they will need a proper funeral, for the loved ones that will mourn them. She would carry about two bodies at a time to cut down on time inside the burning building. She would tap a hand to her headset and call anyone that may be waiting for some action. "Fire in Red Light District! Suspected attack. Numerous fatalities." She would set down the two bodies she was carrying and look over at Yukina as she continued her coms, "Possibly one survivor." She would then look over at the Medical ninja and then say, "Please focus on her, but if you do have time and chakra to spare, once you are sure of her survival, I'll need your help with some water jutsu."

Sumire would go back into the tavern to try and get any other bodies out. While she is doing that, one clone is directing all civilians to move as far away from the fire as possible. Another clone is evacuating the buildings most near to the fire. And the third clone would use the fraction of raw strength of her original to kick up amounts of dirt and sand to any fires spreading to keep it at bay.