”Clear.” — music to his ears as he responded in a similar fashion. It gave assurance that the area was clear since something could be missed with just one set of eyes. Kirinji began explaining his eyes had rolled over toward Ko’s direction when he had mentioned wildlife, and as he did that, he had caught a glimpse of Misaho’s worried expression. His eyes first focused on the man himself, but then followed his gaze toward the odd-looking insect, which appeared to be a combination of two insects. The blue-haired Uchiha made a slightly disgusted face before continuing.
”Yeaaah, definitely be careful of any of those things.” he said he voice tinged with caution. Kirinji continued speaking while his eyes focussed on the centipede climbing up the tree before it camouflaged with the bark.
”It also might be a good time to mention that Kasami and I are carrying healing syringes given to us by Kiyoshi. So if ever the situation arises, just look for one of us.” By the time, he had finished speaking he was glancing around again this time searching for any insects. In his mind, Kirinji recognized that this was another threat on their list they need be wary of. And it seemed to grow every second. Right now, it had bandits, wild animals, wildlife, and threats they probably had no idea about. Oh!—and not to mention the New Burning Dawn. They could very well sit around, discuss every potential threat possible, but that would be fruitless. Not only did they not have the time, but even if they did, it would be pointless due to too many unknown variables. They would have to empty their minds in order to push forward. They would have to become shapeless, formless .. like water. This does not mean removing fear. Fear was important. They simply needed to get moving. It was why Kirinji had hoped that the young man would move with the plan instead of receiving a response that left Kirinji lightly shocked.
Kirinji tilted his head toward the young man with feminine features. His expression clearly projected bewilderment with a hint of
“Are you dense?” He didn’t say it out loud, even though he wanted to, but it would’ve been too rude. The blue-haired relic instead responded with,
”What an odd question to ask..” Truthfully, Kirinji had hoped that the young shinobi had been astute enough to connect the dots. Kirinji was unlike the rest of the group in the sense that he was much older. He was not from their era. This much had been known by the majority of the group outside of the newly joined woman. The Uchiha was from an era that was consumed by war and it was there, where he had met Izanagi. This was not explicitly stated, but it would’ve been clear with the interaction back at Mebu Castle between Izanagi and Kirinji that they did have some history. That was painstakingly evident. From that, it could be assumed that maybe, just maybe, Kirinji had heard of Naraka, of Oni, before. Perhaps even have fought against some before his time here. This much could’ve easily been assumed or deciphered, yet it was not. His confused expression clearly painted with disappointment as he replied,
”I’ve been around long enough to know gargonite when I see it.” His facial expression was similar to that of
“Come on, now..” By that time Kasami had spoken up and he had glanced over toward her, noticing the red in her eyes. The Rinnegan was bugging her. However, he did not point it out and he did not stare at it to make her uncomfortable. Near the end of her sentence of Eiji helping them out, he reverted his eyes back onto him and gestured with his hands toward the pathway, hoping he had the capability of doing such. After all, he hadn’t done anything else thus far.
Kirinji was also surprised the hear that igniting bamboo was toxic. He wouldn’t have expected something like that. Then again, he hadn’t expected Naraka to be like this either. Kirinji had always thought that with Izanagi leading, the world would know peace. Yet that wasn’t the case. It seemed that there was no escaping conflict, regardless of the era. By now, he had hoped they were walking down the path being led by Eiji and Kirinji would be positioned behind everyone with his head on a swivel. They had a long walk, so it was important to have some conversation brewing in order to ease the tension. He was happy to hear that Kasami had been reading. In a world where they all know frightening little, the more questions they asked and the more books they read the more information they would gather. Information that could prove to be crucial in dire moments. After that, it all comes down to sharing the knowledge with the rest. Which was why it was odd that Eiji would ask such a question. Kirinji wanted to move on, he truly did, but it just lingered on his mind. Why was he so secretive about it? There is no secret that Kirinji is frustrated with the young man. He’s failed him twice. First, in the combat sequence against Eien where he used lethal force, and then, at the temple, where he was hopelessly corralled by a snake. Would he disappoint again? Only time would tell. However, he would continue to keep an eye on him. There is something off about that boy.
As they moved at an appropriate pace forward, he noticed that Misaho was somewhat near him it prompted him to recall her worried body language and expression. He wanted to reassure her, but didn’t know how exactly to begin the conversation until he had realized he never properly introduced himself.
”Hey Misaho,” he called out to her. Had the woman looked to his right she’d see the blue-haired man smiling warmly at her.
”I realized I never introduced myself. I’m Kirinji.” The man would continue speaking in a charismatic tone and a warm tone. It was one thing that Izanagi and Kirinji had in common. A charismatic personality when needed and the face to go with it. More times than not it would be used against opponents, lulling them into a false sense of hope or safety. But, used creatively, it can also be used not against but for allies as well.
”I’m happy that you’re joining us. You appear to be exactly what we needed.”
