Training Sheet: Sasaki Kotsuko — Iron Fist of Kumo (さてつ)

[Kazu]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

For but a fleeting moment, Ko thought that perhaps he'd done it. He couldn't believe it when his attack landed, exactly how it was supposed to,slicing through the woman as if she wasn't even there. He did say it was only for a moment though, as his attack very quickly was revealed to have been ineffective. The flesh and bone of what should have been the woman's body gave way to inky darkness and shadow. She looked back at him, glaring through her mask with yellow eyes that felt cold and intense. She almost felt like a predator, a hunter of some sort. But that would mean that he was the prey...

As the shadow-clad woman crept away, she seemed to use the chance as an attack as well. The shadowy tendrils around had collapsed around him, grasping at him in a violent and desperate attempt to bind him in place. The things drained away his chakra, slowly withering him away until there would be nothing left. As the last traces of life left his system, though, the young boy crumbled into sand—his whole body reverted to the course material and began to fall apart. Ko had swapped with his clone before, leaving it behind to become sapped and destroyed. The residual chakra had even been absorbed as well, meaning the young boy would have to come up with some other tricks. He had hung back a dozen meters or so, watching to see what would happen next. He needed a new plan, and fast. This fog and darkness wasn't helping him much, though.

Just as he said so, however, he could see the fog move in a very odd way. Almost as if it were guided. Quickly he realized that the woman had launched another attack, only this time over a much wider area. She was laying her trap, like a spider would to catch a fly. The web of clouds and fog was closing in fast, leaving the young boy barely any time to react. What he did, though, was probably the most worthwhile thing he could have done: he jumped. As he did, a small cloud of sand and particles coalesced underneath the boy's feet—he was creating a surface for himself to stand on. Safe above the web below, Ko began to ascend a little bit. The young boy had had enough of this ridiculous weather. "Time to fix this.." He'd had enough of this fog. He enjoyed walking through them earlier, buy fighting in it? That was a whole different story. The young boy centered himself, breathing in deeply to maximize his next attack. Breathing in a deep breath, Ko then molded his chakra into the air held in his mouth. A burst of air was released from his mouth, dispersing the natural fog around them. This continued once or twice more, until all around the young boy he could see properly. And now that he could see, he could properly fight too.

There would be no more playing around. Ko was tired of reacting. He wanted to be proactive about this, and get on the offensive end of this fight. He shot out streams of sand, attempting to force his opponent out of hiding in the shadows. Unless they'd done something spectacular, Ko's removal of the fog had given him a clear enough vision of the battleground. Looking down upon the scenes, Ko wondered what else he might be able to do in order to best her. For the moment, though, he had a moment to think instead of relying on his instincts.

Spoiler

Note: All are mastered unless marked with an asterisk.
[col3]Ninjutsu

Ninpou [Non-Elemental]

• ~ Transformation
  ~ Body Switch
  ~ Combination Transformation*
  ~ Crystal Eye*

Doton [Earth]

• ~ Stone Bullet
  ~ Gravel Shift
  ~ Sinkhole Fist*
  ~ Mud Clone*

Fuuton [Wind]

• ~ Wind Slash
  ~ Pressure Burst*
  ~ Whirlwind Spin*
  ~ Air Bullet*

|Taijutsu|Genjutsu

Visual

• 
  ~ Basic Clone*

[/col3]

Ninjutsu: 100 / 100
Genjutsu: 50 / 100
Taijutsu: 50 / 100
Stamina: 100 / 100
Agility: 50 / 100
Chakra Control: 60 / 100
PL: 410

+35 TP to Chakra Control. Collecting ¥1250.

 

[Morishige]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

Approved

Old Yen 12700
New Yen 13950

 

[Kazu]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

Ko blinked for a second, taking in the other boy's words. "I thought this was to become an ANBU squad..." Apparently Ko had misunderstood the boy's very clear words. Unless his words had changed during the short time they'd been talking. Ko wasn't quite sure what to make of it. He supposed that a Medical Shinobi would be beneficial, but this feral child Yasei didn't really seem to fit the role. He guessed they'd be needing a different member. This was already starting to get complicated, which made Ko sigh softly. "Fine. However you want to do it." He would let them have a small victory on this one. It didn't really matter. Ko wanted to keep his eyes locked on the real prize here. Turning his attention instead to the boy's next words, Ko felt as if he was being belittled slightly. This Hito character, he sure had a big ego. He looked at Ko as if he didn't have a snowball's chance in hell of joining the ANBU. A fire was lit inside of Ko. "No, that's fine. I can handle that on my own, thanks." Ko was starting to get annoyed. This Hito, he was really doubtful of his abilities to lead. Ko didn't want it either, but he knew that someone else would have to take the mantle instead. He held his tongue though, for now. This group was still in its fledgling stages, and it was important to nurture it for the future with a strng a respectable leader rather than strangle it to death with inexperience and doubt among the group. Ko looked at his readers, giving them a sort of backwards glance that signified that he was no longer talking to Hito or Yasei—he was speaking directly to them. "I never could understand the desire for people to lead teams and such. It's often a very messy business, and usually brings that leader unwanted attention. A game of chess is harder to win when the opponent can see through every trick you use." Ko looked back at the members of the thread, who should not have been able to hear any of that.

The feral child, Yasei, mentioned that they might as well hold off on a name. Ko nodded his head slightly, indicating his agreement. "Yes, that sounds fine. Foundations first." Ko repeated the phrase, as for some reason it stood out to him. Foundations, huh? The cogs in Ko's head began to turn, and an idea began to form in his head. He kept it to himself for now, though, until he had a little more to work with. Turning to the two, Ko also agreed with Yasei's call to end this. "I agree, we all have work to do anyways." Ko tightened the jacket he was wearing, trying to trap more heat inside of it than what he currently had. Before he turned to leave, he looked each one of them in the eye as he said his goodbye. "Hito. Yasei. Kuro. Stay in touch." Ko was off. He turned around, and left the area. He had things to do, and questions to answer. Time would tell how things would play out from here.

Spoiler

Note: All are mastered unless marked with an asterisk.
[col3]Ninjutsu

Ninpou [Non-Elemental]

• ~ Transformation
  ~ Body Switch
  ~ Combination Transformation*
  ~ Crystal Eye*

Doton [Earth]

• ~ Stone Bullet
  ~ Gravel Shift
  ~ Sinkhole Fist*
  ~ Mud Clone*

Fuuton [Wind]

• ~ Wind Slash
  ~ Pressure Burst*
  ~ Whirlwind Spin*
  ~ Air Bullet*

|Taijutsu|Genjutsu

Visual

• 
  ~ Basic Clone*

[/col3]

Ninjutsu: 100 / 100
Genjutsu: 50 / 100
Taijutsu: 50 / 100
Stamina: 100 / 100
Agility: 50 / 100
Chakra Control: 95 / 100
PL: 445

+5 TP to Chakra Control. +30 TP to Agility. Collecting ¥1250.

 

[Tsuyoshi Junko]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

Approved!
Yen: ¥1,250(¥13,350 => ¥14,600)

 

[Kazu]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

Confusion. That's all that Kotsuko felt as he crossed over the barrier. He quickly lost control of his senses, and things were beginning to get weird for him. His vision went blurry, and his hearing became distorted. His sense of smell felt overwhelmed, and his taste was all wrong too. Ko had no idea what was going on. He could no longer tell who or where he was, and he began to feel dizzy. He had no idea how long long he was like that. Seconds? Hours? Days? His guess was useless, and he merely allowed it to continue to wash over him. Eventually, the overflow of information and sensory data began to calm down — he was regaining control over himself. When he came to, everything looked different. Had the place gotten smaller? Ko realized that he felt someone's arms wrapped around him, and he looked down to see who it might be. He realized it was Nanami, the woman who had accompanied him to this place. And yet...why was she so small? He took a closer look, however, and realized there was more than that wrong. His skin...it had fur on it. Thick brown, musty fur, Ko felt his face. The same thing. He was beginning to panic here. "Nanami..." His voice was deep and booming, much different from what he was used to. He didn't know what to make of any of this. "What happened to me?!" Ko knew not what to do. His brash actions had been risky, he'd known, but he'd never expected things to turn out like this. Not with him turning into a...a...

"I'm a bear!" This was unimaginable. What forces were at play that could have caused something like this? Ko looked around himself, trying to take in everything that was around him. He saw figures, movement, and various different things. He was having trouble adjusting to this. The closest pair was actually a man and a bear, the two wrestling together in what could only be described as harmless fun. They seemed not to have a care in the world, though Ko did. He turned back to Nanami, a questioning look in his eyes. "What do we do? Maybe they know what's going on?" Ko wasn't overly eager to just run ahead again. He'd been careless just a moment ago, and he wasn't keen on becoming a full-fledged bear or something. The young boy, or whatever he was now, waited to see what Nanami thought before he went over and asked them if they knew what had happened to Ko.

Spoiler

Note: All are mastered unless marked with an asterisk.
[col3]Ninjutsu

Ninpou [Non-Elemental]

• ~ Transformation
  ~ Body Switch
  ~ Combination Transformation*
  ~ Crystal Eye*

Doton [Earth]

• ~ Stone Bullet
  ~ Gravel Shift
  ~ Sinkhole Fist*
  ~ Mud Clone*

Fuuton [Wind]

• ~ Wind Slash
  ~ Pressure Burst*
  ~ Whirlwind Spin*
  ~ Air Bullet*

|Taijutsu|Genjutsu

Visual

• 
  ~ Basic Clone*

[/col3]

Ninjutsu: 100 / 100
Genjutsu: 50 / 100
Taijutsu: 50 / 100
Stamina: 100 / 100
Agility: 80 / 100
Chakra Control: 100 / 100
PL: 480

32 TP to Mastering Sinkhole Fist, Mud Clone, Whirlwind Spin, and Air Bullet. 3 TP to Agility. Collecting ¥1250.

 

[Morishige]

Approved

Old Yen 18200
New Yen 19450

 

[Kazu]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

What the hell was he saying? Hayato remembered a violent and dangerous man, but not this. Not a killer of kin. The shining blade reflected the light, creating a glimmer that showcased its intense cutting abilities. It was a shame too, because Tetsuya's words in the beginning had been rather convincing. Hayato had thought something could be worked out, but now it was fairly obvious of where his choices lay. He had thought, for a moment, that perhaps they could be civilized gentlemen. Apparently not. Tetsuya was making his blood boil, poking at parts of him that he'd locked away long ago. A chill ran up his spine as the gears in his head turned. He felt it again, the cold and calculated blood lust that he once felt. He could feel his Sasaki heritage running thick through his veins. "Tetsuya, my cousin, I swear to god if you try to lay one finger on my family I'll rip your fucking throat out." Tetsuya had done it. He'd poked and prodded at Hayato just enough to bring out his side of him. Mei looked back at her husband, recognizing that side of him with a look of bewilderment. "Dear, I..." "Mei, my love, stop. I need you to move aside so that I can kill this fucker once and for all." He didn't shout, which is probably what made it so scary and frightening to see. He was perfectly aware of himself, not in some passionate rage. It was menacing.

For a while, Hayato merely sized up his enemy. This man, with the blades shining, was standing in his home, threatening his family. Hayato saw Tetsuya for what he truly was: a murderous swine. "Tetsuya, you fucking fool, you have no leverage here. Let's say that you do kill my family to get me to help you.." Mei gasped at these words, not believing the words her husband was saying. He shot her a look, telling her to be quiet and to let him finish. He was scaring her. "...that would never work. I'd sooner slash my own throat then help you after that. And if that happens, well then I guess the family is just going to crumble away anyways..." He let out a light chuckle. His sadistic sense of humor was starting to return. "Face it Tetsuya, you need me far more than I need you. You want me to cooperate? Then you know what you can do?" The Sasaki leaned in towards his kin. He motioned for him to come closer, so that he might tell him a secret. When he was sufficiently close, Hayato began with a calm and gentle manner. "You can go right ahead...AND PISS THE FUCK OFF BACK TO YOUR SHIT HOLE YOU CALL A HOME." Hayato wouldn't be fucking pushed around by this little shit. Threatening his wife and child, what a fucking coward. The death stare Hayato gave this man was enough to make one's spine tingle with fear. "You want my help? Don't be a fucking coward and threaten my family. Be a man, and reason with me, personally."

This entire situation had escalated far beyond anyone could have imagined. The two Sasaki were staring each other down at this point, no doubt waiting for the other to make the next move. Would Tetsuya come to his senses? Or would he continue down the path of murder and intimidation? Hayato had finally come out of his shell again, regaining that spark that made him a Sasaki. Maybe that's what Tetsuya had wanted all along, to push him until his 'true self' revealed itself again? Who knows? All that was known for certain was that Hayato wasn't backing down from this. He held his ground, showing the Sasaki Clan leader that he was not a man to be messed with. Either he would respect that and back down, or he would retaliate with force. Hayato wasn't sure which way he would go from here.

Spoiler

Note: All are mastered unless marked with an asterisk.
[col3]Non-Elemental Ninjutsu
Transformation
Body Switch
Combination Transformation*
Crystal Eye*

Earth Ninjutsu
Stone Bullet
Gravel Shift
Earth Flow River*
Sinkhole Fist
Mud Clone
Inner Earth Reflection Lure*

Wind Ninjutsu
Wind Slash
Pressure Burst*
Whirlwind Spin
Air Bullet
Shredding Touch*

Sand Ninjutsu
Desert Deflection*

Metal Ninjutsu
Steel Slam*
Quality Break*

Magnetic Ninjutsu
Polarity Burst*
Magnetic Control*|Taijutsu
-None-|Visual Genjutsu
Basic Clone*[/col3]

Ninjutsu: 100 / 100
Genjutsu: 50 / 100
Taijutsu: 50 / 100
Stamina: 100 / 100
Agility: 83 / 100
Chakra Control: 100 / 100
PL: 483

18 TP to Mastering Steel Slam and Shredding Touch. 17 TP to Agility. Collecting ¥1750.

 

[Sanageyama Masaoko]

Approved.

New agility total is 100.

Old yen = 3550 + 1750 = 5300

 

[Kazu]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

Kotsuko's invasion was perfect. Over the last year or two, the young boy had become increasingly familiar with his abilities—he knew their strengths, weaknesses, and when the right to time to use them were. He knew an opportunity like this when he saw it, and using his skills to the maximum on this mission was his duty as a Kumogakure Shinobi. He owed it to his nation to do his best. As the young boy sat there underground, focusing as hard as he could on making out the smallest and most minute of all movements around him, he noticed something was wrong. He sensed a lot of bodies around this compound, that was for sure. The place was definitely fortified. What he didn't see, however, was a whole lot of movement. The guards in their thick metal uniforms...he'd have sensed them a mile away if they so much as clinked or clanked. The fact that everyone was this still was a little alarming. Something felt wrong to the young boy, and he was about to call in on his radio when their squad leader beat him to it. He listened as the voice, distorted by a lack of decent signal strength, came in a bit choppy and unclear. Annoyed, the young boy coursed some of his electrified chakra into its electronics, boosting the signal and creating a clearer message for himself:

"-dy begun infiltration. Disengage from primary objective! Head for the wine cellar." He'd only missed the first bit. He could guess what she was saying to begin with, and the young boy realized very quickly that the real mission was about to begin.</URL>

"Race to the Finish Line"​

<URL url="http://www.ninpocho.com/viewtopic.php?p=193561#p193561">
Their enemies had probably already beaten them to the fort, which meant that they had a leg up on trying to get the wine. The band of Kumogakure shinobi would have to be imaginative, and a little bit creative, if they were to regain the upper hand in this situation. Ko wasted no time in heading deeper underground, turning himself towards the northern side of the fort as he reached his hand to the headset to try and get a quick signal in. "Roger. En route to interception." Ko did his best to boost the signal for them all to hear him, but he had no way of knowing how good the signal would be when it reached their headsets. For all he knew, it could have been static by then. He couldn't dwell on that, though, and focused his attention towards the task in front of him. Guiding his Tessei Shikai's field of vision, Ko noticed a rather large structure of steel and iron beams crisscrossing down into the ground. Was that the bottom levels, where, perhaps, the object of their mission could be held? Ko decided to investigate, getting closer to what appeared to be an individual room. Ko was careful, realizing that while he may have the elemental advantage in this regard, he was far from having the skill or power advantage. The only chance he had of getting anything done was remaining undetected—to that end, the young boy was cautious to the extreme.

[url=http://www.ninpocho.com/viewtopic.php?p=1170#p1170]Gathering the metals in the ground all around him, Ko melded together a small orb into the palm of his hands. The orb, filled with his chakra, would allow him to peer into the rooms ahead without revealing his location. The young boy pushed the eye just until it was at the surface of the wall in front of him. He intended to scope the place out first, and see what there was in front of him, before he made any decisions or wandered deeper in search of the casket.[/url]

Spoiler

Note: All are mastered unless marked with an asterisk.
[col3]Non-Elemental Ninjutsu
Transformation
Body Switch
Combination Transformation*
Crystal Eye*

Earth Ninjutsu
Stone Bullet
Gravel Shift
Earth Flow River*
Sinkhole Fist
Mud Clone
Inner Earth Reflection Lure*

Wind Ninjutsu
Wind Slash
Pressure Burst*
Whirlwind Spin
Air Bullet
Shredding Touch

Sand Ninjutsu
Desert Deflection*

Metal Ninjutsu
Steel Slam
Quality Break*

Magnetic Ninjutsu
Polarity Burst*
Magnetic Control*|Taijutsu
-None-|Visual Genjutsu
Basic Clone*[/col3]

Ninjutsu: 100 / 175
Genjutsu: 50 / 175
Taijutsu: 50 / 175
Stamina: 100 / 175
Agility: 100 / 175
Chakra Control: 100 / 175
PL: 500

35 TP to Ninjutsu. Collecting ¥1750.

 

[Tsuirakuya Shashu]

Approved. Yen Stipend for C-rank is ¥2,000, not ¥1,750. Adding missing yen from last training as well.

+35 Ninjutsu (135)

+¥2,250 (¥6,900 => ¥9,150)

 

[Kazu]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

"A Mind in Overdrive"​

Ko eyes followed the metallic ball closely, focusing insanely hard on it. The boy was finding it more and more difficult to control the farther away it went, though he wasn't sure where or if there was a cut-off point at which his magnetic abilities would cease to work. He imagined it wasn't infinite, but the exact range of his abilities would have to be measured later. For now, he tried his best to maintain as much control over the orb as he could. He was trying to direct it directly at the ANBU woman, trying to gauge what she might do next. More evasion? Or was this another diversion, like always? He couldn't read her as well due to her mask, but he had so far gotten a sense as to her fighting style. Something sneaky and unexpected was coming, no doubt. He just had to prepare or it...

He couldn't have prepared, however. Preparation against an opponent like this required more battle experience than he had, and it meant that he would be woefully unable to defend against any attack she may have in mind. While she seemed to be sticking to her guns in terms of what kinds of abilities she would use — shadows, mists, and spider-based abilities — she still had a far greater set of skills to draw from. Ko's arsenal was rather limited in comparison, and even more so since he was now trying to grapple with learning the limits of his new abilities. A young boy like Ko couldn't possibly hope to match the woman evenly.

He had to out think her. She worked on instinct, but Ko worked on calculations. He fought with a sort of cold fury, both calm and collected and fiercely powerful at the same time. It was a dangerous combination, really. All the passion of a brawler, and all the levelheadedness of a strategist. When the woman attached the webbing to the metal ball, and then flung the other end of it at Ko, he didn't panic. He didn't flinch. He realized, instantly, that he wouldn't be able to dodge it. He didn't waste time trying. That precious second was used for more important matters, like bracing himself for the impact and bringing his iron sand close into himself so that it wouldn't be left behind by the sudden acceleration. He realized quickly how he might use this to his advantage, and allowed himself to swept up by the forward momentum. He soared through the air, freely following the metallic ball's trajectory. He had his goal in sight, and he knew exactly what he had to do. At the last second, he changed the ball's direction off to one side. It wasn't a lot, but it was enough to redirect the young boy directly towards the ANBU woman. He was right on top of her, too.

She hadn't done anything so far. Ko didn't imagine this strategy to do much other than startle her, but did he really expect to be able to take her down anyways? No, this battle was about testing himself, about exploring the depths of his abilities and hers. If he gathered a sufficient amount of data, that would be enough for him. With this in mind, the young boy brought his iron flecks towards his palms, forming a long staff made entirely of the iron sand. It was heavy and solid, perfect for delivering a direct hit. As he accelerated faster towards the woman, he brought forth the staff to strike her. He wanted to see how a direct attack like this would make her react. Would she disappear in another puff of shadow and mist? Would she stand her ground and fight? Ko wanted to know more about this woman, his opponent.

He didn't even know her name yet. He'd have to ask her it when they were done.

Spoiler

Note: All are mastered unless marked with an asterisk.
[col3]Non-Elemental Ninjutsu
Transformation
Body Switch
Combination Transformation*
Crystal Eye*

Earth Ninjutsu
Stone Bullet
Gravel Shift
Earth Flow River*
Sinkhole Fist
Mud Clone
Inner Earth Reflection Lure*

Wind Ninjutsu
Wind Slash
Pressure Burst*
Whirlwind Spin
Air Bullet
Shredding Touch

Sand Ninjutsu
Desert Deflection*

Metal Ninjutsu
Steel Slam
Quality Break*

Magnetic Ninjutsu
Polarity Burst*
Magnetic Control*|Taijutsu
-None-|Visual Genjutsu
Basic Clone*[/col3]

Ninjutsu: 135 / 175
Genjutsu: 50 / 175
Taijutsu: 50 / 175
Stamina: 100 / 175
Agility: 100 / 175
Chakra Control: 100 / 175
PL: 535

35 TP to Ninjutsu. Collecting ¥2,000.

 

[Kazu]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

The answer he sought was given to him rather quickly. Ko nodded, satisfied with knowing the other boy's name. He gave him a quick smile as well, acknowledging the exchange of information. "Nice to meet you, too." Now that the pleasantries were exchanged, Ko's attention shifted to Kunashi's follow-up questions. He was describing his experiences with other mentors since their class with Junko, describing how their former teacher's brother had seemingly taken the boy under his wing. Interesting. When Kunashi asked Ko about his own training, Ko wondered what he should tell him. Certainly, he shouldn't reveal his recent dealings with the ANBU? That was probably classified information. With a bit of care, the young boy considered what he might answer with before proceeding. He was a good liar, despite what people might think of him. "Oh, I've been studying here, mostly. Anything I can get my hands on, really." His words weren't dismissive outright, but he definitely seemed to make it clear that there wasn't anything left to talk about in that department. He moved his ever watchful eyes back to Randori, as a new question had arisen from the boy. Having listened to the words, the young Sasaki cocked his head to one side with a puzzled expression. He was about to answer, before the boy held up a finger and left to retrieve his and Kunashi's books.

Ko looked him up and down, trying to gauge how much to tell him. Should he? Shouldn't he? He made some quick mental calculations, trying to figure out precisely the right amount to divulge. As he did, Ko looked to the various readers he knew would be reading these exact words — he wanted to express his thoughts to someone who couldn't talk back to him. "A conundrum indeed. The truth could ostracize me, but a lie could lead to more problems if they keep pressing me. A gentle touch is needed here, when dealing with subjects with as much controversy as this. Perhaps a half-truth, then, is in order?" Sometimes the young boy simply needed to talk and explain himself to his readers. Satisfied with his mental calculus, the young boy turned back towards his two peers — they wouldn't have known of his one-sided dialogue just now. "Oh, this? It's some old journals, documenting some secret techniques. I just thought it would be interesting, seeing some more outlandish techniques detailed." Ko needed to take his misdirection a little further. Licking his fingers and flipping the pages a bit, Ko scrunched his face a little bit. Something seemed to be bothering him. "Oh dear, seems this section is a little too old. It's written in Ancient Kumo..." With a quick flick of his eyes, he sent a portion of his iron sand off to another section of the library. His eyes returned to the two, giving them a sort of shrugging look. "Seems I'll have to brush up on that. It's been a while since I've read anything in Ancient Kumo..."

Spoiler

Note: All are mastered unless marked with an asterisk.
[col3]Non-Elemental Ninjutsu
Transformation
Body Switch
Combination Transformation*
Crystal Eye*

Earth Ninjutsu
Stone Bullet
Gravel Shift
Earth Flow River*
Sinkhole Fist
Mud Clone
Inner Earth Reflection Lure*

Wind Ninjutsu
Wind Slash
Pressure Burst*
Whirlwind Spin
Air Bullet
Shredding Touch

Sand Ninjutsu
Desert Deflection*

Metal Ninjutsu
Steel Slam
Quality Break*

Magnetic Ninjutsu
Polarity Burst*
Magnetic Control*|Taijutsu
-None-|Visual Genjutsu
Basic Clone*[/col3]

Ninjutsu: 170 / 175
Genjutsu: 50 / 175
Taijutsu: 50 / 175
Stamina: 100 / 175
Agility: 100 / 175
Chakra Control: 100 / 175
PL: 570

Still awaiting last week's approval.
5 TP to Ninjutsu. 30 TP to Chakra Control. Collecting ¥2,000.

 

[Kazu]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

Ko paid little attention to the woman following him. The man's words may have been clear to here, but Ko had trouble understanding people sometimes. It was as if Common were an encrypted message, and he had neither the key nor the linguistic knowledge to decrypt the code. He was an outsider when it came to words, and that meant that he often either missed the meaning of words entirely or he misinterpreted them. In this case, Ko hadn't realized that they were supposed to go together through these trials. If the man had meant to refer to them as a group, he should have used a plural identifier, such as "you two" or "you guys". Using a singular identifier misconstrued the meaning of the man's words to seem like it was an individual challenge. How was Ko supposed to know they were working through this as a team? To him, this was merely some woman he'd just met and had stripped before him earlier. Nothing out of the ordinary there. Either way, they seemed more like a mismatched pair than a team.

Ko's focus had been drawn almost immediately to the actions of the pair that stood before Nanami and himself. A bear and a man, it had seemed at first, that were together rolling a pair of massive wooden dice. Ko recognized this game as gambling of some sort. As the dice came to a stop above the warm waters of the spring, Ko saw that the she-bear had rolled a lucky seven. Claiming her victory, the she-bear slowly transformed back into a human as the man regretfully removed the last of his clothing. As he did, the mists engulfed him and transformed the man into a bear — he was like Kotsuko now, as he disappeared into the mists to, undoubtedly, try his luck somewhere else. Perhaps he would wander in this temple for all eternity, forever remaining a bear? The thought seemed rather gruesome to Ko.

Turning his attention back to the woman in front of him, Ko realized they'd have to beat her in order to claim her reward. He didn't know what sort of reward, but surely it should turn him human again. Right? The way she confidently smiled at them, though, was a little unsettling. She was so incredibly confident, Ko wondered whether they truly had a chance. He couldn't allow himself to simply remain a bear forever, though. He approached the woman, his hulking bear form looming over her. "I'll challenge you." Perhaps she hadn't been challenging Ko personally, but he had a plan. He shifted for a moment, giving himself a bit of time. He was glad that, despite his current form, he was still able to mold chakra. He might not have his gourd of sand with him, but the young shinobi was very able to improvise. He would not allow himself to remain a bear forever. Without looking back at Nanami, Ko sat down and picked up the dice. "I wager everything on a hi-lo. Agreed?" He waited for her answer before he continued. This had to work.

Before he threw them, something strange happened. Ko wasn't going to just leave this to chance — he had used his chakra to draw a bit of the wall off, crushing the plaster and stone to dust and sand which he could manipulate. With no indication of his tactic, he directed a bit of it into the woman's eye as he threw the dice. It should have been enough to make her eyes water, and for her to rub them with her hands. She would be blind. As she did this, Ko rolled the dice. As they fell, his sands gently guided them into position. He chose to go for the two 1's with this roll, and so he guided the dice to be exactly what he needed them to be. As they landed on the water, the two 1's showed themselves. Ko guided his sands away from his opponent's eyes, allowing her to rub the last bit out. He waited for her reaction, for her to see the outcome of their little bet, and then he gave her a smile and a handshake. "Good game. Better luck next time."

Spoiler

Note: All are mastered unless marked with an asterisk.
[col3]Non-Elemental Ninjutsu
Transformation
Body Switch
Combination Transformation*
Crystal Eye*

Earth Ninjutsu
Stone Bullet
Gravel Shift
Earth Flow River*
Sinkhole Fist
Mud Clone
Inner Earth Reflection Lure*

Wind Ninjutsu
Wind Slash
Pressure Burst*
Whirlwind Spin
Air Bullet
Shredding Touch

Sand Ninjutsu
Desert Deflection*

Metal Ninjutsu
Steel Slam
Quality Break*

Magnetic Ninjutsu
Polarity Burst*
Magnetic Control*|Taijutsu
-None-|Visual Genjutsu
Basic Clone*[/col3]

Ninjutsu: 175 / 175
Genjutsu: 50 / 175
Taijutsu: 50 / 175
Stamina: 100 / 175
Agility: 100 / 175
Chakra Control: 130 / 175
PL: 605

Still awaiting the last two weeks' approvals.
45 TP to Chakra Control. 15 TP to Stamina. Collecting ¥4,000.

Also collecting the rewards from the site ranking: +¥25,000 yen, and 50 ASP. Double Training has already been included.

 

[Junan]

Week 1 Training approved
Ninjutsu: 170

Yen: 13150 + 2000 = 15150

Week 2 Training approved
Ninjutsu: 175
Chakra Control: 130

Yen: 15150 + 2000 = 17150

Week 3 Training approved
Chakra Control: 175
Stamina: 115

Yen: 17150 + 4000 + 25000 = 46150

 

[Kazu]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

"Keeping the Endgame in Mind"​

The elder's words did not fall on deaf ears as he spoke of Satou. Ko acknowledged them, though they didn't sway his mind. He didn't display his attention at all, and merely continued on. It didn't matter much anyways, not with this most wonderful outcome. Things had gone exactly as the young boy had wanted — perhaps, it had even gone better than expected. As the old man grabbed hold of Ko's hands, feeling the energy flowing out of him, Ko stood still so as not to interrupt. He listened very intently to the man's words, his verbiage, and his praise. They were important indicators, after all. They told Ko how much the man needed a proper heir. "Thank you, I appreciate your praise." Satou had, apparently, been the next in line to take over. However, he didn't seem to be on exactly level terms with the old man. Ko's aspirations and his ambitions had led him to the Dead Blacksmith, and those same qualities may very well lead him to take over the aging man's role. That was all very far into the future, though. For now, Ko would focus his mind's eye on the tasks before him.

The Dead Blacksmith did not ask for much. He merely asked for dedication and hard work. He, himself, brushed it off as not being an issue, and Ko could not agree more. Persistence was a necessary trait if one is to learn anything of a higher level. That rule had no exceptions, and Ko had no illusions to the contrary. "It is as you say. To gain such a skill, hard work is a small price to pay." Was there even any question about it? Who wouldn't trade a small portion of their time here on Earth for such a powerful ability? Refocusing himself, he listened again to Kotsurugi's exposition. The man's warnings were exactly what Ko thought they'd be. He told the boy how he might be shunned, how he might be loathed, and how he might be despised. Ko cared not. His eyes remained steely and firm, unyielding and unstoppable. "If that's all it took to stop me, I would not be here now." And with that he bound himself to this cause — he was linked, inexorably, to the end he had now chosen for himself. For better or worse, it was the path he'd chosen.

As Kotsurugi revealed the hidden door, Ko found that his blood was beginning to boil. Was he excited? He must be. The prospect of what was to come excited the young boy. Ko stood, pushing the metal seat back. He paid it no mind, and instead focused his entire attention on the old man and the possibilities ahead of him. A halfway cruel and sadistically gleeful smile spread across Ko's lips, revealing a little bit of his true character. He turned to his audience, with a face that made even his writer's spine tingle. This seemed to please Ko to no end. "What? Were you expecting me to be a hero, happily protecting my village? I'll tell you a secret: you don't get to decide my story. I'm the one in control here. And I must say, I see a very interesting time ahead of me..."<i></i> He walked forward, towards the Dead Blacksmith and his hidden passageway. A new chapter of Ko's life was opening. Who knew where it might lead?

Just one. But not even I could tell you what went on in that head sometimes...

Spoiler

Note: All are mastered unless marked with an asterisk.
[col3]Non-Elemental Ninjutsu
Transformation — Mastered
Body Switch — Mastered
Combination Transformation — Rank One
Crystal Eye — Rank One

Earth Ninjutsu
Stone Bullet — Mastered
Gravel Shift — Mastered
Earth Flow River — Rank One
Sinkhole Fist — Mastered
Mud Clone — Mastered
Inner Earth Reflection Lure — Rank One
Earth Flow Wave — Rank One
Rock Golem — Rank One
Earthen Coating — Rank One

Wind Ninjutsu
Wind Slash — Mastered
Pressure Burst — Rank One
Whirlwind Spin — Mastered
Air Bullet — Mastered
Shredding Touch — Mastered
Wind Scythe — Rank One
Tempest — Rank One
Gale Force — Rank One
Wind Release — Rank One

Sand Ninjutsu
Sand Stars — Rank One
Sandstorm Veil — Rank One
Cluster Attack — Rank One
Desert Deflection — Rank One

Metal Ninjutsu
Steel Slam — Mastered
Quality Break — Rank One
Mercury Poisoning — Rank One
Steel Clone — Rank One

Magnetic Ninjutsu
Polarity Burst — Rank One
Ionic Infusion — Rank One
Magnetic Control — Rank One
Magnetize — Rank One|Taijutsu
-None-|Visual Genjutsu
Basic Clone — Rank One[/col3]

Ninjutsu: 175 / 175
Genjutsu: 50 / 175
Taijutsu: 50 / 175
Stamina: 115 / 175
Agility: 100 / 175
Chakra Control: 175 / 175
PL: 665

35 TP to Stamina. Collecting ¥2,000.

 

[Kazu]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

Kotsuko loved to feel the wind through his hair. He would sometimes close his eyes and imagine that the wind was whispering to him, telling him stories of long ago. The power of nature was something else. His gaze swept over the crystal clear waters that surrounded him. His hands brushed against the solid stone rock that supported him. Ko was enjoying a rare opportunity where, instead of sneaking around or trying to learn something new, he allowed himself a chance to breath. In, and out. Reflection, he felt, was the best way to sharpen one's mind. Physical training was useless if your mind was too dull to slice apart a problem. One needed both the physical and the mental in order to be effective. This almost meditative activity was just what the young boy needed, lest he become too absorbed with his plans and desires to not see their flaws. He simply needed to breath. He closed his eyes, and began. In. Out. In. Out. I-

"Hm?" He felt a presence. Not human, and not hostile, but a presence. He opened one of his eyes to see a small messenger bird flying right towards him. He sighed a little internally as he realized that he was being summoned for something. Getting up, the young boy began to walk towards the bird over the water, his chakra control keeping him from slipping down into the water. The bird landed on his arm, and the young boy unraveled the parchment tied to its leg before sending it off. It was a sort message, but held quite a bit of weight to it. Ko smiled a devilish grin. He'd been selected for an Exam, and with a certain old man whom he knew very well. This was unexpected, but not unwelcome. Ko figured he could meditate later. For now, he would have to make it to this exam. He set off, eager to begin such an important task.

[...]

Ko hopped from one rooftop to the next, slowly zeroing in on the location he was told to meet them at. It was a public square, where the village had set up a memorial to some shinobi of the past. Ko would have to read up on this memorial later. As the shops thinned out, Ko hopped down onto the cobbled roads to approach the two. As he landed, his appearance would become more apparent by sight, and by sound. The young boy was dressed with a sort of metal plating armor, dark grey in color. It was loosely fitted, covering his arms, chest, and his upper thighs reasonably well, though it looked to be rather thin and bendable. Perhaps it was an odd question to ask why the young boy would need such thick armor, but perhaps that was also the wrong question to ask. Underneath the armor, the young boy wore a black skin tight shirt and well-fitted tan pants. On his feet were steel-toed boots, to protect them against any stray shuriken. Ko walked with a confidence that stated he knew what he was doing, and he kept a certain inquisitive look in his eye that let you know that the young boy was always watching to see what you would do next. Ko never missed anything.

Approaching the old man and his student, Ko realized very quickly that it was Kunashi, the boy from the Academy whom he had befriended. Ko hadn't expected to run into him again so soon, but he figured that it wouldn't be a big deal. Greeting them, the young boy smiled slightly while he introduced himself. "Good morning. I hope I'm not late." Ko stood next to Kunashi, facing their silver-haired teacher for the day. Ko would wait to see what they were going to do next — he did, after all, arrive late to the exam. He hoped that wouldn't be marked against him.

Spoiler

Note: All are mastered unless marked with an asterisk.
[col3]Non-Elemental Ninjutsu
Transformation — Mastered
Body Switch — Mastered
Combination Transformation — Rank One
Crystal Eye — Rank One

Earth Ninjutsu
Stone Bullet — Mastered
Gravel Shift — Mastered
Earth Flow River — Rank One
Sinkhole Fist — Mastered
Mud Clone — Mastered
Inner Earth Reflection Lure — Rank One
Earth Flow Wave — Rank One
Rock Golem — Rank One
Earthen Coating — Rank One

Wind Ninjutsu
Wind Slash — Mastered
Pressure Burst — Rank One
Whirlwind Spin — Mastered
Air Bullet — Mastered
Shredding Touch — Mastered
Wind Scythe — Rank One
Tempest — Rank One
Gale Force — Rank One
Wind Release — Rank One

Sand Ninjutsu
Sand Stars — Rank One
Sandstorm Veil — Rank One
Cluster Attack — Rank One
Desert Deflection — Rank One

Metal Ninjutsu
Steel Slam — Mastered
Quality Break — Rank One
Mercury Poisoning — Rank One
Steel Clone — Rank One

Magnetic Ninjutsu
Polarity Burst — Rank One
Ionic Infusion — Rank One
Magnetic Control — Rank One
Magnetize — Rank One|Taijutsu
-None-|Visual Genjutsu
Basic Clone — Rank One[/col3]

Ninjutsu: 175 / 175
Genjutsu: 50 / 175
Taijutsu: 50 / 175
Stamina: 150 / 175
Agility: 100 / 175
Chakra Control: 175 / 175
PL: 700

25 TP to Stamina. 10 TP to Agility. Collecting ¥2,000. On hand amount is ¥4,250.

 

[Junan]

Week 1
Stamina: 150
Yen: 4250 + 2000 = 6250

Week 2
Stamina: 175
Agility: 110
Yen: 6250 + 2000 = 8250

 

[Kazu]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

Ko had been confident in his strategy. He didn't consider the possibility that they'd have anticipated such a strategy. His face quickly turned from confident and in-control to one of surprise and frustration. He knew something was wrong as soon as he felt the energies creeping up around him — the giant were-bear form which he'd been turned into was slowly melting around him, returning him to that of his original form. However, there was something different. He felt more vulnerable, more raw. There was something wrong with this place. The waters around him were becoming unbearably hot, to the point where he was jumping from one foot to the other. He felt like a child, and it aggravated him to no end. As he struggled, he was picked up by...the stranger's robe? Ko couldn't believe this place. This was insane. As she spoke to him, chastising his actions, the young boy gave her a sour look. "Why not?! Luck is bullshit — leaving things to chance is dumb." He was becoming irritated. This whole situation was becoming too much for the young boy. As he listened to the woman speak to Nanami, the young boy let out a sigh.

"No. Don't bother playing this woman, Nanami. I admit defeat, I quit, whatever it is. I want to leave." Ko didn't know what the rules for this were. He didn't care what happened from here on out, he just wanted to go. He'd had enough of mysticism for one day, and he really would have much rather if they'd been able to enjoy the bath instead. That hadn't been the case, though. They'd been curious, and this is what they got for it. Perhaps this was a lesson for him? Who knows. Ko just knew that he wanted out, to leave, and to be rid of this wretched place of magic and bears. This was not the place for him. "Please, show me the way out so that I may leave peacefully."

Spoiler

Note: All are mastered unless marked with an asterisk.
[col3]Non-Elemental Ninjutsu
Transformation — Mastered
Body Switch — Mastered
Combination Transformation — Rank One
Crystal Eye — Rank One

Earth Ninjutsu
Stone Bullet — Mastered
Gravel Shift — Mastered
Earth Flow River — Rank One
Sinkhole Fist — Mastered
Mud Clone — Mastered
Inner Earth Reflection Lure — Rank One
Earth Flow Wave — Rank One
Rock Golem — Rank One
Earthen Coating — Rank One

Wind Ninjutsu
Wind Slash — Mastered
Pressure Burst — Rank One
Whirlwind Spin — Mastered
Air Bullet — Mastered
Shredding Touch — Mastered
Wind Scythe — Rank One
Tempest — Rank One
Gale Force — Rank One
Wind Release — Rank One

Sand Ninjutsu
Sand Stars — Rank One
Sandstorm Veil — Rank One
Cluster Attack — Rank One
Desert Deflection — Rank One

Metal Ninjutsu
Steel Slam — Mastered
Quality Break — Rank One
Mercury Poisoning — Rank One
Steel Clone — Rank One

Magnetic Ninjutsu
Polarity Burst — Rank One
Ionic Infusion — Rank One
Magnetic Control — Rank One
Magnetize — Rank One|Taijutsu
-None-|Visual Genjutsu
Basic Clone — Rank One[/col3]

Ninjutsu: 175 / 175
Genjutsu: 50 / 175
Taijutsu: 50 / 175
Stamina: 175 / 175
Agility: 110 / 175
Chakra Control: 175 / 175
PL: 700
ASP: 50

60 TP to Agility. 10 TP to Genjutsu. Collecting 50 ASP. Collecting ¥54,000. On hand amount is ¥10,050.

Also, I got the help of a Missing Councilor to track down some of my old stuff from my previous character Ayatsuri Ginjiro. As Ginjiro, I purchased the Extra Points Card, the Extra Ability Card, Two Extra Equipment Slots Cards, and Three Weapons Galore Cards. The link to where I bought them is here, though you'd need access to Missing Requests to see it: http://ninpocho.com/viewtopic.php?f=489&t=26259

 

[Tsuirakuya Shashu]

Approved.

+60 Agility (170)
+10 Genjutsu (60)

+505 ASP (555)

+¥54,000 (¥6,800 => ¥60,800)

 

[Kazu]

Re: Sasaki Kotsuko [Academy Student]

Ko loved it when things came together nicely. His silver tongue was developing nicely, having successfully convinced his peer of his harmless little lie. He would never even find out: they'd be in and out before anyone knew anything. Eyes beginning to scan the area below from behind those snow white locks, the Sasaki child was beginning to formulate a plot. He would have to use the young boy's skills to his advantage. "Don't worry, Kunashi. I won't blame you for not knowing. I won't tell anyone, so you don't have to worry about that." Ko wanted to keep this as contained as possible. No loose ends, right? So long as Kunashi didn't say anything, this whole thing would go off without a hitch. Taking in the situation, Ko began to plan out their actions. Bringing Kunashi in closer to discuss with him, Ko began to clue him into his plan. "Alright, here's what I'm thinking. The guards are pretty predictable — every five minutes they walk along the perimeter, checking for anything suspicious. I can use my sands to distract them, and draw their attention away. In that time, can you sneak in and get the files needed? It shouldn't be too hard to find, though it might be written in Ancient Kumo..."

Grabbing the pen from before off the floor and a piece of paper, Ko began to scribble something down. On it were some of the strange symbols from before, though it was pretty clearly written. On the paper read the words: Ωμέγα Έργο : Μεταγραφή Έγγραφα. Ko handed the slip of paper to Kunashi as he continued. "This is the document we're supposed to find. Don't worry, I'll be able to help you find it from a distance." Ko focused some of his sands into his right hand, which he closed to mold his chakra into the little metal flecks. When he'd opened his hand, there was a small eyeball composed of his black sands. Making it float, Ko seemed to be in complete control of it's movements and where it looked. "I can see through this, so I'll be able to help guide you when you're inside." The plan was coming together. Ko was confident in this, and all he needed to know was that Kunashi was on board with everything. Ko didn't want to mess this up, as this could be his only real chance at getting into the Protected Records for a while. This would work, he was sure of it. He would make sure it did.

If Kunashi was ready, Ko would begin moving everything into position. His third eye would hover far above the view of the guards, keeping them in its sights. He would use his sands to draw their attention off to the side, giving Kunashi the chance to rush inside undetected. Everything was set up to begin. He would only have to wait for his teammate to be ready as well. Situated away from the situation, so as to not draw attention to himself, Ko made sure to stay conspicuous. It wouldn't do if they figured out he was the one pulling the strings from the shadows on this one.

Spoiler

Note: All are mastered unless marked with an asterisk.
[col3]ANBU Ninjutsu
Snapshot — Rank One

Non-Elemental Ninjutsu
Transformation — Mastered
Body Switch — Mastered
Combination Transformation — Rank One
Crystal Eye — Rank One

Earth Ninjutsu
Stone Bullet — Mastered
Gravel Shift — Mastered
Earth Flow River — Rank One
Sinkhole Fist — Mastered
Mud Clone — Mastered
Inner Earth Reflection Lure — Rank One
Earth Flow Wave — Rank One
Rock Golem — Rank One
Earthen Coating — Rank One

Wind Ninjutsu
Wind Slash — Mastered
Pressure Burst — Rank One
Whirlwind Spin — Mastered
Air Bullet — Mastered
Shredding Touch — Mastered
Wind Scythe — Rank One
Tempest — Rank One
Gale Force — Rank One
Wind Release — Rank One

Sand Ninjutsu
Sand Stars — Rank One
Sandstorm Veil — Rank One
Cluster Attack — Rank One
Desert Deflection — Rank One

Metal Ninjutsu
Steel Slam — Mastered
Quality Break — Rank One
Mercury Poisoning — Rank One
Steel Clone — Rank One

Magnetic Ninjutsu
Polarity Burst — Rank One
Ionic Infusion — Rank One
Magnetic Control — Rank One
Magnetize — Rank One|Taijutsu
-None-|Visual Genjutsu
Basic Clone — Rank One[/col3]

Ninjutsu: 175 / 175
Genjutsu: 60 / 175
Taijutsu: 50 / 175
Stamina: 175 / 175
Agility: 170 / 175
Chakra Control: 175 / 175
PL: 770
ASP: 505

5 TP to Agility. 30 TP to Genjutsu. Collecting ¥2,000. On hand amount is ¥61,800.