[RP Location] Kagane Village

[Oni Archives]

=Kagane village. This officially marks the geographical center of Naraka. This village unlike Kyotoshiro feels right. Its alive, a natural bustling and industrious village full of productive growth and development. Children play in the streets and the village has many different regions. A market place, a temple district for religious worship where the Sanzou order makes passes and commune, another branch of Kiyoshi's workshop and as well a residential district and slums. This is possibly the most "normal" feeling place in Naraka and is known as a safe haven for travelers. This is the season of their harvest festival so there are numerous lanterns and parades walking through the streets and many of the shops are holding discounts. More technologically advanced there are even vending machines of various different types lined on the sides of roads - essentially in the market district and residential district. The medical center is located in the Temple Ward - set in the center of the village however medical practitioners can be found all around the village and at the main gates.=​

 

[Oni Archives]

He was sure they wouldn’t be far behind as they were clearly pretty good about following directions given their previous circumstances. Ikki soon came to shift Ko’s wait on his shoulder and upon looking down at the boys limp form in his arms he’d turn his gaze straight ahead only to take notice of the town that laid before him. It was odd, was that the laughter of children? His eyes began to dart around the thought of something that in a place like this was almost alien. He had never really seen any families aside from his own running about not to mention he hadn’t really been to many settlements within naraka. He shook his head to somewhat steel himself of the idea that even in a place like this people could find a place to call home. He shifted Ko’s wait one last time before stepping within the village himself and watching as kids ran about looking back at their parents for reassurance. He soon became a little more relaxed as he soon came to realize that these people were at ease. Happy with their circumstances and even more so they seemed to be having the time of their lives a festival was clearly in the works. In passing Ikki soon parted his lips to peak giving way to his deep tone of voice “We’re here.” while it wasn’t like the people who accompanied weren’t aware it was more so giving a nod to the fact that they didn’t have to follow him like lost puppies.

His eyes soon began to wander looking for the first signs of medical attention and in turn it became clear that the people here could tell that the boy he carried was in need of such a thing. This mere resulted in some of the people pointing him in the right direction a welcomed change to some of the people he’s encountered in his life. He could soon be making his way towards the center of the village towering over some of the children and standing eye to eye with some of the more adult individuals. Had either of the people accompanying him wanted to ask him questions or otherwise he would be more than happy to oblige but keep his same pace through the crowds and parades that came by.

 

[Oni Archives]

As Eiji followed behind Ikki watching as he adjusted Ko's weight multiple times along the journey towards the next town, he would be staring almost daggers at the back of the man. He was looking at the symbol upon this man's back. Eiji had never seen any symbol like it before and now was curious about its meaning and Ikki's intentions with their party. As they walked into the village Eiji looked around at the joyous festival-like scene around them though he always kept one eye upon Ikki. Eiji looked as Ikki began to take Ko to seek out medical help Eiji would begin to speak up, "Don't forget I have questions for you after you drop off Ko for his medical attention.

Eiji's voice was deep with an assertive tone towards Ikki he turned towards Kasami who would want to stay with Ko at this moment to watch over him and his recovery. As he turned towards her he hinted for her to follow Ikki and Ko to wherever they would be taking Ko to recover and rest, hopefully, he'd be fine alone till Ikki came back and hopefully Ikki wasn't a true threat but he was prepared to face it alone to keep Kasami and Ko who were distraught at the moment safe.​

 

[Oni Archives]

あ な た の 心 は 痛 む が 、笑 顔 壊 れ て も 笑 顔

"Finally!"

Kirinji voiced in happiness. His tan hands extended toward the other individual who stood behind a cart as they exchanged a box of food and a cup. Kirinji swiftly moved to a location near the church to sit down and eat this very much needed food. Ever since the incident he hasn't gotten the chance to have his favorite food, or do anything really, he opened the box and his honey pool optics subtly gleamed with excitement, but his face did not portray such emotion. The dumplings covered in a sweet, salty sauce made from soy sauce simply looked absolutely ravishing. Many did not know, but Kirinji would eat anything that was sweet. It was a sort of addiction like someone addicted to tobacco or even gambling. The man began to indulge in his food while he observed the joyful children and families. the village full of activity as if it had a life of its own. It was quite a harmonic region and he sat there enjoying such.

 

[Oni Archives]

The last village was different. Stepping into it after the man in the mask had guided them there, she’d had time to take it all in. To study the way the people moved about, to admire the scenery. This time- this time she couldn’t focus on anything but Ko. She stayed close behind Ikki as he carried him, her gaze never leaving his face- though she did take note of the symbol on his back and allowed herself for just the briefest moment to be curious about it. When he shifted Ko off his shoulder she moved more toward his side, staying close and staying silent. Kasami didn’t care about questions right now, that much was clear.

She didn’t even notice Eiji looking at her, and had already had full intention of following. There wasn’t a chance in hell that she’d leave his side at the moment. Not until she knew that he was going to be okay. Once she knew he’d recover- she’d consider it at least, but the likelihood was slim regardless. He needed someone to look out for him while he was unconscious if Ikki was going to regroup with Eiji. She’d level the whole damn village if she had to. No one was going to hurt Ko again.

The thought brought a dewy look to her eyes as they made their way toward the center to seek help. Pink spots speckled the apples of her cheeks as her temperature rose slightly. Her jaw tightened, and it was easy to tell she was straining and tensing up just to keep those emotions in check.

Ever since she found out she was a Senju it completely made sense to her why her brother had turned so cold toward her. He wasn’t her real brother. The people that raised her weren’t her real family. If it wasn’t for Ko she’d have felt like she had nothing at all. He made sure she didn’t feel alone, and she’d do the same for him.​

 

[Oni Archives]

[sub]Kagane Village - Listen while you read[/sub]


"Haaa man...what a predicament right? Oh - you lost your beanie by the way."

"How? How would you even know that?

Oh boy - you've got a lot to learn don't you?"

=This was the inner monologue that was transpiring in the mind of Ko as he was being transported from the temple they had previously been at all the way down to Kagane village. His body in reality was motionless minus the slightly off pace breathing but in the midst of hiks mind he was oh so very active, speaking with the same opposite version from before. In his mind - the setting they were in was a teahouse of sorts. One that he had never been to before but it felt so very real. It was odd - typically in a dream when you were in a location that was only for that dream you knew what was among you but not in great detail and it was never a thought about what was in the background until the time came that you were finally there among the setting in question - but here? He could feel it, sense it all - he knew what was in the back, outside, and on the menu without even looking at it. "Takatane Tea.." he mumbled to himself only to have the more snide and in control version of himself clap and applaud him for finally remembering something. After - he folded his arms and stared at Ko, the two looking at each other without a blink as he started to understand that there was much more going on here and in store for him then he could understand at this moment. Meanwhile as they carried Ko towards the medical district - there had already come medical examiners from the village gates that had seen them coming down from the temple path. They were upon them and upon seeing Ikki the oldest and most experienced knew exactly who he was and met him with a bow of the head and immediate assistance. When he entered the medical temple he was met by one of the lead nurses there on site: "Let me have a look at him."

=She came forward and didnt even wait for Ko to be put down on a bed or even taken down the main corridor to one of the rooms or anything of the sort. Her eyes were wild and glimmering a strange chakra - quite possible that she could analyze and diagnose his physical symptoms and condition based off some sort of dojutsu or sensory technique otherwise. She seemed quick about her work, turning him, opening his eye lid to examine his pupils and finally opening his mouth to examine his tongue and throat - as a consequence, being sent a'back by the stench and appearance of his throat in the aftermath of the miasma. "Another case of it. We've been getting more and more. And so close? They're getting more bold. I'm going to need to take him back to the ward for quaran-"=It was just as she was about to finish her sentence that she would have been interrupted by the double doors behind her opening and there in filled a presence that was potent in its tranquility. What had colme forth was a feeling that resonated relaxation and comfort, compassion and care - a face that Ikki had perhaps not seen for longer then any other with the exception of one. This was the countenance of one - Tatsumi Namikaze Shinto - or now that the great Sanzou clans were now revealed for the most part and known to the Oni: Tatsumi Sakurai. His dark navy hair shifted before his crystalline lavender hues - eyes so soft, compassionate; it was no wonder that he was in the medical field. You could tell just from the look of him that he cared for other living things in a way that shinobi or those focused around combat did not...perhaps could not. The thing that stood out the most about the male besides his hair, eyes, and the vivid blue Sanzou robes that he wore was how he traveled most of all. His sides were draped with a bright green chakra - formed into wings. Tatsumi was great at most things but his area of expertise among the Sanzou was wind chakra and this is how it manifested. The wings around him were bright green almost a lime color and illuminated the halls everywhere he went; they were almost like angel wings, comprised of several joints and bonds of wind chakra formed into feathers upon him. As he came towards them you would see upon watching his posture very closely that where as when a person took steps their body would raise then lower in elevation constantly. Tatsumi did not - instead it was like he was simply floating, striding forward. His own footsteps making no noise at all as it could be visually confirmed that he was only even barely touching the floor at all. Levitating mostly as the current of the wind chakra around him carried him along the floor. His eyes floated between them all and then finally upon Ikki, widening a bit as he realized who it was. There were certain people that Tatsumi never wanted to see grace his medical ward simply for the fact taht he knew the lifestyle that they lived and that seeing them there would either mean they needed his attention - or he was going to be booked up with a lot of others that did. Whats more - the moment that Tatsumi looked down and saw who was hoisted over his shoulder he had to contain his expression. Not wanting to give way to the idea that he knew anything or that it was any particular shock to him otherwise - but the way those eye brows rose and his eyes themselves quivered against their natural reflex as he looked to Ikki while speaking to his own assistant:

"Ikki? I'd never thought I would catch you here. And with a patient afflicted with his miasma. You've..been busy. I'll tend to this one in particular myself - personally. You can leave him with me - or accompany me if you'd like. I'm sure you have been weary from travel - fi not I understand. Heh, we do tend to keep company around here as is. The others? Well those two will have to wait here - in the lobby."

=He said this as he was turning back towards the door. Had Ikki decided toc ome with him then he would find that the doors would open and Tatsumi would float off to pass through them however if he decided to leave him and tend to other things - then whence Ikki relinquished him unto the custody of the man there would form a pocket of wind underneath him that would keep him balance and trailing with him; after which Tatsumi would float off down the hall and Ko would follow behind.=

Meanwhile. Outside.

=As the three went into the medical asylum there was a looming shadow overhead. Where the man had just gotten his food in the yard before the medical asylum there stood a single figure watching them as they entered - another void of chakra signature or otherwise but this one seemed different...more like Tengu in the fact that he was almost impossible to detect. He stood on a rooftop, just above that very stand that he had been served and standing at ten stories higher as well. His eyes were black but they radiated an odd intent, questionable and unknown. As they disappeared inside he would turn his head and scoff, mumbling under his breath: "..There goes the fucking neighborhood..." = and with that he stepped backwards, fading away into the darkness where the other buildings cast shadow upon him till finally his presence was all but dwindled to nothing.=

​

 

[Oni Archives]

The moment they stepped with the confines of the village he was quickly met with the gaze of a medical examiner. As it stood people here clearly recognized him to some degree and the young woman who found herself upon them was no different. She gave a nod and he followed up with one of his own his hood bouncing on his head slightly at gesture. When this young woman stated she wanted to take a look at him Ikki didn’t hesitate to allow her as he knew from the fact that she recognized him what it meant for him to even be here to begin with. Amidst her hastily performed status check the two of them were promptly met with the friendly face of another, none other than tatsumi. Ikki shifted Ko’s weight once more before he removed his mask. However it wasn’t a necessary formality as the person who crossed that threshold knew exactly who he was with or without it. His crimson eyes met with tatsumi’s and just the same as his eyes widened Ikki’s followed suit. They rattled like a snake's tail in shock it had been some time since he hadn’t even seen him in quite some time. The two of them knew very well what it meant for him to be here or more importantly what his reasoning was altogether. His wings of chakra carried him with ease and yet he made no noise a thing to admire to say the least alas there was something more pressing and even Tatsumi knew that his facial expression very clearly gave way to his understanding. When Tatsumi parted his lips to speak Ikki simply listened with a more at ease look than prior when his sharingan dialed back into a widened state of shock.


"Ikki? I'd never thought I would catch you here. And with a patient afflicted with his miasma. You've..been busy. I'll tend to this one in particular myself - personally. You can leave him with me - or accompany me if you'd like. I'm sure you have been weary from travel - fi not I understand. Heh, we do tend to keep company around here as is. The others? Well those two will have to wait here - in the lobby."

Ikki soon after letting Tatsumi finish gave him a nod of confirmation. He had questions of his own and while he could very easily just wait to speak with his father about the interaction he and Ko just had it was best he just talk it over with Tatsumi first. He soon let Ko’s form slip from over shoulders and in the careful clutches of his compatriots own wind release. In passing he soon parted his own lips to speak letting a tone of relief become apparent.

”It’s not exactly how I intended for us to see each other again. While the circumstances could be different I’ve got some questions for you.”Ikki looked back to the pair that accompanied him and spoke to them as well with a reassuring look on his face. In particular this look would be to the young woman who was quite clearly bit more distroden than her male cohort. “He’s in good hands, trust me on this one.” The intent behind such a gaze was clear as this pair hadn’t even seen his yet but he wanted to impart some sense of comfort upon them just the same as Tatsumi’s very presence did at times. As for Ikki and Tatsumi they had some catching up to do as he soon followed behind him without much hesitation. Had Kasami attempted to join them she could find that Ikki would have no problem standing as a vanguard to the corridor or even more so that while he had shown them his face he had already tucked away a few key details about them both. This young woman had rinnegan something that he knew held a strength all its own to rival his own sharingan and he definitely didn’t take it lightly. As for the young man who accompanied her he had taken note of his use of water from their encounter with Ko and had already gone to work on some of the knowledge he could potentially give this young man. However he also knew what it would take to effectively subdue them both. Ikki simply sought to put the pair at ease with his more warming interaction in this instance.

 

[Oni Archives]

あ な た の 心 は 痛 む が 、笑 顔 壊 れ て も 笑 顔

As Kirinji enjoyed his delicious food there came a sudden change atmosphere as everyone glanced over at the white haired man carrying a body while others followed. This piqued his interest, but not for the same reasons of the other villagers — no, no. His interest was in the white haired gentlemen as it reminded the exact reason he was here. The feeling, the smell, it was all very familiar of the one person he was looking for. Kirinji was quick to follow the group of individuals maintaining a low profile even suppressing his chakra completely in order to blend in with the villagers. Once they were in the lobby he maintained a close proximity — enough to ease drops without being detected — as he listened to the conversation. He heard every word and it provided him with no information. Once the conversation had ended he knew that he could not follow the gentlemen named Ikki as it would become too suspicious. However, the other two could potentially lead him to his destination. For now he simply observed from the background.

 

[Oni Archives]

Tedious... that was the first word that was coming to Eiji's mind as the event began to transpire within the new village they entered. From the moment they entered the village till the current time quite a few things transpired which outright tugged on his nerves and his patience. The first thing that actually bugged him was being in this mysterious village within Naraka that seemed just abnormal having what seemed like a festival going. He could not tell what the festival was for nor could he tell if they were truly in a safe place or not. This outright bothered him because he could not make a plan of action with no sight of the danger or problems that could arise within this place.

The second thing that bothered him so much was the festival reminded him of his time back in Konohagakure. The newly founded festival that came along twice a year to celebrate and honor the Hokages and the heroes of the village both past and present. He could remember himself walking around with his father and looking up at the Hokage monument with his ancestors face carved in it. His father would always tell him, *One day, you will be like Great Grandpa Hiruzen, a Sarutobi who has both prestige and honor. Intelligence and wisdom to guide you out of any trouble you encounter, and strength to defeat even the greatest foes. I see this in your future son, you will even surpass Naruto and Hashirama, just wait.* He looked up at the stone face staring at it with sparkles in his eyes as an awestruck child.

But flashing back was dangerous in a place like this. If he lost himself for too long anything could happen and he could be swept away in the chaos causing himself or his current teammate Kasami to die. He would be very wary of this and keep his wits about him as they walked towards the medical district. And within the medical district came the last thing to bug Eiji, he could sense someone following behind them which in this place was... disturbing. And beyond the person following behind them at a great distance, the person who he had the most questions for Ikki was almost ducking him to follow this man named Tatsumi.

With the current set of events happening Eiji would look at Ikki for a moment with an intense glare of dissatisfaction, "Don't forget I have quite a few questions for you Uchiha boy..." His snide comment was flung at Ikki with a Tobirama like distaste for the man and his clan but so far he'd only met Uchiha who are scum, not many that could be considered good people or even having what seemed like a soul. So Eiji himself was distrusting of them but he was not completely hateful towards them, he only said this as he felt something odd about Ikki had to make sure to point it out in his tone of voice and facial expression. Afterwhich he moved over to the outside of the building to look around and see what he could tell was in this village.​

 

[Oni Archives]

Kasami felt slightly better as they moved through the village because even with the bustle of the festival that seemed to be going on- they were taking Ko’s condition seriously. They were pointed in the direction of where they could find help for him almost immediately and she did note that some people seemed to recognize the man that carried him. Ikki… Another man with a mask. Tengu had helped them get to Kiyoshi, and Kiyoshi had directed them to head to Izanagi. The elders that she continued to meet on this path that appeared to help them rather than being run into- it appeared the pattern told her to trust this man. There was nothing instinctual telling her that she couldn’t, so for the time being she would have a little faith in karma. For everything bad, there is always something good to balance it out. She was hoping that Ikki was the good, and the events at the temple had been the end of the bad. For now, at least…

When they made it to the temple and the woman had approached them to look over Ko, she couldn’t help but peer around Ikki to watch and keep an eye on things. There was a constant battle happening in Kasami’s chest right now, and it was completely assaulting her heart with negative emotions. Ever mind was telling her to trust no one despite how desperately she wanted to believe that Ko was safe, not just for his well being but for her own sanity as well. The girl appeared to hug herself, her body language completely tense as she watched the exchange between the woman and Ikki about Ko.

It wasn’t until the doors opened and someone new joined them that she somewhat relaxed, shoulders slightly lowering as they became less stiff. She turned to look at him, slightly in awe at the sight of him. The grandeur of his wings made of chakra and the way that he moved with fluidity. It was almost so overwhelming that she barely noticed the recognition on his face of the man that led them there, but it was noticed. As she was turning toward Ikki after being stunned for a moment, he was taking his mask off. Seeing his face almost gave her a small sense of comfort that he could be trusted. He wasn’t hiding behind it, that seemed to be a good thing. She was quietly listening to their voices off to the side, when her heart sank.

“Those two will have to wait here…”

She immediately stepped forward to protest, her eyes seeming to glaze over with tears as her arms tightened against her chest and she tensed up again. But no words left her lips as they parted, just a small whimpered stutter before her head lowered and her gaze fell to the floor. “I understand…” She said softly as Ikki reassured her that Ko was in good hands. “Just let me know when he’s okay. Please..” She stared at the floor as she spoke to him, gaining control of her emotions, even if only slightly. If there was one thing more true about Kasami than any other, it was that she respected her elder shinobi. She wouldn’t do anything that she felt was disrespectful, and blatantly ignoring their demands or wishes was in that category.

When Ikki left, Eiji had already departed, and she was left alone waiting. As soon as they were out of sight, she rubbed a stray tear away from her cheek and turned around. Kasami stopped abruptly in her tracks, hooked finger still pressed against the corner of her eye, as her eyes instantly found a familiar face standing in the background. With narrowed eyes, she gave him a glare and moved to the wall near the door, sitting on the floor and pulling her legs to her chest, with her arms wrapped loosely around her calves. Her knees would make for a temporary pillow as she laid the side of her head against them, staring at the door. She spoke loud enough so that this stranger that she had faced off in the desert could hear her, demanding to know why fate crossed their paths again.

”What are you doing here.”​

 

[Oni Archives]

"Oh. . . oh jeez is she going to cry? No no no - trust me. We've treated many of these cases before with great success. He'll be fine - trust me. I'm a licensed practitioner."


=The words of assurance left by Tatsumi as he went along. The doors opened and with it the wind that he held command of took Ko into its embrace, down the hall they went. There was something about the hall itself...something about the entire ayslum rather - be it the fact that the very presence of Tatsumi made things so much more comforting or the factg that there were several tags all around the ward as well. It was unbeknownst to outsiders exactly what it was that these tags were capable of but Tatsumi knew full well. He would have gone off down the hall and as he did such he would motion his head to Ikki, gesting that if he wanted to ask his questions now then he could do so. he knew that ikki was no stranger to things of a grotesque nature in Naraka so he would have no issue witnessing the details of the procedure to heal him and his throat - this was mainly a precaution to make sure that he could carry on with the treatment without any interuptions because outsiders tend to not fully understand what goes in to the treatment itself. However the option to ask Tatsumi at a later time was completely on the table. If anything the group would end up bedding down here once things were done with Ko to make sure that he got the proper recovery time and was seen to as he should so its not like he was going anywhere any time soon. Once outside as the boy from the stand started moving around to eaves drop there were curious eyes upon him. Another outsider - and curious of this group while still not being directly there accompanying this group. Between outsiders that kind of meeting usually spelled the fact that they were enemies and trouble would be brewing soon. At this distance one could see these prying eyes if they made out the figure well enough - at least those old enough could. Short black hair - the only thing completely different, the jawline, the sharp eyes, vibrantly healthy skin and physique..this man resembled the exact identical image of Izanagi Uchiha during the great waring era. His gaze was focused well upon the group from a good eight meters away around the side of a tree. The boy before - Kirinji was very evident. Not only was he the only person here that was not some form of Oni or otherwise besides them - but he had blended in with a crowd at a medical asylum - during a festival. All the normal people were at the festival - all the people he blended with were medical professionals and with that title came a very distinct - unmistakable, uniform....that he was not wearing. This male continued to watch as everything transpired before him, hand set upon the wood of the tree as he listened in and stayed at posture to play this off if he was so easily expected. At least by a party thaat would believe him.

​

 

[Oni Archives]

The look Tatsumi had on her face during their moments of reassurance was something to bring about laughter but he had to control himself. He knew her concern was far beyond misplaced in a situation like this as Tatsumi is among the best when it comes to the people who fall under the narakan umbrella of shinobi. While he himself was quite proficient under the knife the idea that she was in such a state of emotional turmoil over this young man was something he couldn’t entirely come to terms with. Ikki had gone from being simply a device for another nations machinations to a honed edge used to handle his own dirty work among that of his fathers. Amidst this his intentions were always clear during any encounter as an old man clad in armor once told him all those years ago that there was no room for weakness in his garden. As things moved along and both tatsumi crossed a threshold of seals Ikki parted his lips to speak only to have his words lead by a sigh of relief. His posture adjusted to accommodate this more relaxed state his joints and muscles releasing the tension that pent up between his encounter with Ko and the anger he held for the man responsible.

“Tatsumi, what’s with the kid? It’s been quite some time since anyone’s even been able to go toe to toe with my seiryu chakra. Yet when he and I met it did something unexpected..” Ikki looked down to the mask that now resided in his grasp and than back to tatsumi with a look of intrigue. He was far from frustrated but he had an itching suspicion if anyone knew the reason it would be him. Ikki soon after asking his first question would find the nearest wall and simply observe as he continued. ”The other thing that’s been bothering me. That boy from a few months ago, I met him inside the shrine of mikaboshi’s corpse and since it seems you’ve been dealing with the aftermath. That woman from before said you were getting more and more people like that? I think he’s the one responsible. He pinched the bridge of his nose at the thought of this possibly being his fault. Ikki was frustrated at the idea, but knew he couldn’t cause himself undue stress over something he couldn’t control.

As for the young man so eager to ask Ikki questions but was he even sure he wanted the answers. That thought alone was enough to make the mental doppelganger of Ikki chuckle not to mention the only thing stopping Ikki from putting this young in the dirt was Tatsumi. He knew the rules not to mention the mutual respect the two have for one another and he wasn’t going to tarnish that for the sake of someones misplaced intrigue. At the end of that interaction alone Ikki simply shook his head as they departed further into the center.

 

[Oni Archives]

あ な た の 心 は 痛 む が 、笑 顔 壊 れ て も 笑 顔

There is a certain feeling in your stomach when you know you have been burned. There is no amount of training that can prepare for it — it becomes just a gut feeling as if all the eyes in the vicinity were fixated upon you and only you. After all his years in tracking or living within the shadows he knew when the shift of control occurs. This is how exactly Kirinji felt. He had assumed that some villagers would be around, but only medical professionals and their signature clothes were apparent. At this point Kirinji continued to listen before he was confronted by the woman as she asked him what he was doing there. He was confused, and shocked, that their paths had crossed again. Yet he reeled it in and replied to her in a calm voice

"Me? I'm just here looking for someone. What are you doing here, and what happened to that man?" Kirinji questioned as he pointed over toward the carried man.

 

[Oni Archives]

Kasami picked her head up and looked at him again, the corner of her eye twitching as she stood up in one fluid motion. Walking over to him, she got inches away from him- glaring into his eyes. "Look at you, asking questions that aren't your business. Did you not learn your lesson last time? I don't plan on telling you- are you going to throw another tantrum again and attack me? Her eyes narrowed, jaw visibly clenching before she turned away and moved back to her spot to lean against the wall. "Feel free to try, this time I'll kill you. Looks like not doing so last time was my mistake."

Right now was not the time for a stranger to be asking her questions he had no business asking, especially considering how she'd met him. Asking questions, and coming at her when she didn't want to answer them. Were this not a respectful establishment she'd have thrown him out with force. Moving back to her comfortable position to wait, she rest her chin on her knees and closed her eyes. Taking a deep breath, she let it out slowly. "If you must know- I don't have an answer regardless. We ran into someone on the way here, and he was infected by a miasma that caused him to turn on us. We're here to get him medical attention before heading to the next village."

She tilted her head and glanced at him. "Satisfactory?" Her attention moved back to the door. "Answer for an answer- who are you looking for? Not a lot of shinobi from our world even know that Naraka is more than a legend. Did you come here on your own or did your search start after finding yourself here?"​

 

[Oni Archives]

=They proceeded down the corridor and upon doing so the entire time there was only one thought on the mind of Tatsumi. . . how did he manage to get wrapped up in this? This entire time Tatsumi had put it all behind him and had been doing just fine. Years ago he had left Konoha - leaving behind an empty seat as Hokage that has probably been cast around who knows how many times by now - simply for the fact that he could not stand to lose more people because he refused to act or he failed to do so effectively. Yet here it was...not only still transpiring with another patient but now it was spreading to involve and draw in people that he knew personally; a tell tale sign that he could not run from his truth. Then the moment came that he asked about the boy and he couldnt help but cringe a bit as they came to the room, not to be met by a medical table but a sealing of evil jar filled with what seemed to be water. But this was a water that could not be described as something so simple - no. These waters were special - in fact they were among the most coveted things in Naraka; known as the Tiāntáng zhī mén Yuánquán (Lit: Heaven's Gate Fountainhead) these waters had healing properties that were beyond belief and it is even said that drinking this water can unlock the potential of the body. As he was brought into the room and Ikki took up position against a wall Tatsumi watched and sighed a bit...he was lost for words:

"You know how I'am. . . it is not in my nature to lie. However, I can not say for certain based off the information that I have. What is known for sure - is that he is the one that visited your father's lab in Konoha some time back and made off with the Hashirama cells and Gengo-...Mikaboshi's Rinnegan as well as one other artifact. As well - he seems to be the holder of the Shuzaku mask; which would explain why your chakra clashed as it did. Im guessing whatever happened, the clashing of two celestial chakras caused a reaction - perhaps canceled each other out in that moment. If anything...I suppose this here - is another member of a would be New Burning Dawn. As for that guy..."

- Speaking in reference of course to the boy that he was referring to encountering in the shrine to Mikaboshi's body; he took a moment to contemplate his thoughts on that man. His body was that of a much younger male but he was so very old, and perhaps his inner Oni was just as powerful as Kiyoshi's during the time that he was loose on Naraka as Gogandantes - The greatest swordsman of all demons. Tatsumi himself had some choice thoughts about the male which could be portrayed as concerns and stipulations towards the current procedure at hand due to the fact that as this run through his mind he stay focused on watching the nurses disrobe and submerge him in the sealing jar. He could see the emotional inflections upon Ikki's countenance and with it an eye brow upturned in concern:

"I'm certain that its him. Daikokuten. He's taken a band of Naraka's most wanted and formed a terrorist organization with the idea in mind that bringing back a pure - savage lands Naraka is the best result for everyone. They think that Izanagi's rule on Naraka, bringing peace, justice - and security to otherwise savage lands has made it weak. That it was his father - Mikaboshi's legacy to destroy the Mask Salesman and that this is the only way to make it so that the people of Naraka are prepared for whats to come. His associates consist of

Ai Yuki - a Fujimori clan Sanzou priestest with a heart cold as Ice.

Gunji Hojo - You know him as the previous owner of The Flute Of The Demon Carnival. It drove him mad and he turned feral.

and Yomi Fujimori - one of the last surviving members of the Fujimori clan - known as "The Questing Beast" for his infamy in how cruel and animalistic his nature to hunt formidable prey can be.

They each struck here a long time ago when this all began - I was not able to help. I have since...laid my skills in combat to rest and focused on what I can do to truly help people in ways I could not as a shinobi. Eien...was here - I believe is still here in the village somewhere. He stopped them, but it was not easy and he was greatly injured; both in his pride and physically. . . *his voice more stern at this point* Hey it's not your fault. You couldnt have been prepared for this to happen, no one could. Who would have known that he was still capable of developing his skills in that prison. We didn't even know that he was still even of conscious mind, anyone else should have gone mad and spiraled out of control...maybe he did in a way. Your father...did you know that once upon a time he was responsible for the Akatsuki back in the impure world getting hold of all of the Bijuu? He had collected them all for them - with thought in mind that he could make the shinobi world a better place if he held all the cards in his hands. He had a change of heart - but the deed was done and he had to go back and fix it himself. He was responsible for what had happened and who had all gotten hurt. We all have moments like these...maybe that doesnt make it better - but it does at least tell you that no one else is looking at you like you are the odd man out and the sole person to make a mistake. **hand upon Ikki's shoulder - they started to close the lid on the jar and begin the procedure** I know I dont need to tell you this, but what matters is that you understand the mistake - and make your effort to fix it. These guys . . . . they got them stirring again Ikki. The other two in Naraka that are on Izanagi's level. The other two connected to The Takamagahara. Kazukuto and Oshirama. They're back out there in the wind and no one knows when they may pop back up. We've too many issues moving around at once to be fully prepared. Its like he wants things to be this out of order. Be careful out there. Something isn't right. You should get back to those others out there. They look like they could use some guidance. Eien? I dont know if he is going to give it. He's in a dark place right now."

=During this time the medical team had gotten the lid sealed down tight, he wouldnt need to breath - not inside with the divine waters. The team constantly walked around the sealing jar and finally upon examining it well enough they sat around it in a circle and started to initiate the medical seal around the jar, zeroing in on it and illuminating the jar in a green light. meanwhile far in the distance stood Eien around the side of a tree watching the outsiders at the entry to the asylum with a grim expression upon his face. Last time that he met with outsiders they were here to destroy the civility that this village had been rebuilt upon and he was not having it - and he again was left alone to face the coming threat and was not prepared to act properly in the stead of those needed to keep this village safe. Would he allow such an opportunity to occur again? Would he let outsiders - come from some unknown land and sleep, eat, walk right amongst them right under their nose and bide their strength to try and destroy them later? Perhaps he was just a fool? Perhaps they really took him for a fool! These thoughts boiled in his mind as he watched them and only got more and more angry by the moment. Raging - fuming as he contemplated the mosaic of violent images passing his mind in regards to the mere possibility that someone would think they could take advantage of a moment he was not on guard again. It started to boil in him. A deep, black killing intent resonating over his being in a manner that it made his eyes and body slightly resonate with a discomforting aura...it was the opposite of senjutsu - nothing natural about it at all..in fact it was like the relinquishing of the path to tranquility held in the good part of most human hearts and the acceptance - no, the submission to the darkness of the flesh...the need to exact ones validation of life over another by murdering them outright. He took deep breaths trying to keep himself under control. Staying away from them still and biding his time, wondering if any useful info would come of this.=

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[Oni Archives]

It wasn’t often that Ikki let something like this get to him simply the idea of such a thing drive him over the edge. However in light of this it was clearly tatsumi had concerns of his own only reassuring Ikki that it wasn’t something he could plan for. He knew just as much as this snowy haired young man that somethings were just out of a person’s control even with good intentions the road to hell could be paved meaning this was no different. When he mentioned that Ko was among the mask holders his grip on his own somewhat loosened. It began making a bit more since as to why their chakra even reacted in such a fashion to ikki it meant that he be treating this young man more like a brother than just another person under his purview. In Ikki’s mind if he was a carrier of a mask that meant either his father or someone else of similar stature viewed him as someone of equal footing. He exhaled in relief that his suspicions were correct, tatsumi had effectively confirmed it with the conversation that they were having but amidst this another concern was posed. That boy better yet what effectively equated to his social counterpart by design was banding together with some of naraka’s most ferocious. His mind simply posed the thought mere seconds after Tatsumi mentioned that they were a terrorist organization. His teeth gritting inside his skull as he continued to listen. If there was one thing Ikki could say Tatsumi was, it was informative even in the event that the information he was delivering was something of a rough spot to say the least. The only name of the three that he first mentioned that stood out to him was Gunji and with that his mind dragged him back to that time within the cave before he even became Seiryu. He was better coming out the other side but what resided within was a sense of knowing he was a much better young man than before.

His eyes locked onto Tatsumi the moment the reassurance of this choice encounter and the fallout from it not being his fault. He simply nodded a moment before the individual speaking mentioned a name all to familiar two of which nearly sent chills down his spine. However rather than be afraid or quake in his boots his form resonated his crimson hues giving way to that soft glow Uchiha were often known for. His bodies momentary relief of tension was promptly interrupted at the mention of Oshirama as well as Eien. The former being the individual to set him on his path towards becoming an oni, an individual responsible for breaking him to his very core, hospitalizing him even yet here he stood like an oak tree in the garden as he put it all those years ago. As for the latter he was the true reason for this ambient glow much like Oshirama he had a hand in the fate that was so clearly sculpted before him, but amidst this these two had something in common. When Ikki’s eyes resonated with chakra and took on that residual glow the Souzou Subarashii that resided within him fluttered into view. That distinct aura of golden chakra seeping from his form in a momentary sense of comradery became present. Ikki wasn’t angry despite his bodies reaction dictating otherwise it was a momentary slip in terms of his chakra control to say the least but he meant well by it. His mind went back to meeting with a rather lackluster young woman and Eien all those years ago and being put through a few trees as a result. Perhaps that was when things had begun to fall into place when his first interaction with this golden chakra had taken place and yet he had come to have great control over it in recent times. While that golden chakra radiated forth for only a moment it soon seeped back into his form without hesitation.

“Eien? I don’t know if he is going to give it. He's in a dark place right now." When Tatsumi mentioned that Eien was in a dark place he certainly understood for a time so was Ikki, especially after failing to properly deal with Daikokuten at the shrine. He soon responded with a tone of gratitude towards Tatsumi as well as the team that was going to work on Ko. “Thanks Tatsumi I’ll try my best to make sure things at least try to go as intended. I’ll be back later to check on the boy.” Ikki soon after looked down to the mask that resided in his grasp only to have it dispersed into a cloud of smoke. He wasn’t ashamed to be carrying it nor did he think the people in this village were concerned with what his face actually looked like. His renown amidst being with his father for so long was enough for the townsfolk to understand there was a sense of a warm welcome in their presence. He soon turned to head back down the same corridor they’d entered this room from. His stepping cadence almost rhythmic as in passing he came to the threshold of the asylum’s gate a feeling washed over him that could hardly be described by many as unease. Eien may be out and about among the people or elsewhere but the fact that he was here made Ikki’s form physically clench. The muscles in his arms tightening and his teeth baring those pronounced canine’s that came with even being apart of the oni organization as a whole. His being merely hungered at the thought of meeting his predecessor or more importantly the progenitor to the golden chakra that resided within him. While Eien sat out in the distance Ikki came upon one of the individuals he arrived with along with another unfamiliar face. The blood running through his veins causing his form to look slightly bulkier in terms of his bodies toned state. Slowly but surely this would subside, however in these coming moments he was gathering himself as the azure flames he bolstered welled within him causing his skin to be hot to the touch. In short, his body temperature was being dictated by what brewed inside him. He managed to come upon this young woman and another gentleman mid conversation. He arrived at the moment that she said “satisfactory.” Ikki’s form still warm to the touch he observed but he could feel the tension in the air between these two. He merely sat behind her with his from completely over shadowing her own with his crimson gaze fixated on the gentleman that sat before her. Even the slightest of movements would go observed no matter how hard he would potentially try to conceal them. This was effectively Tatsumi’s abode and more importantly a place of safety for those that called this village home when they were in need of medical care. If he had come to disturb that he would find that Ikki would be more than happy to break him in two. While Eien in the distance unbeknownst even to Ikki was radiating a murderous intent of massive proportions, Ikki was standing here trying to bring himself back to center. His body’s natural response to the mention of such a name had heightened his adrenal response which in turn resulted in this radiation of heat becoming present. As for Kasami had she been paying attention on a sensory level she would be well aware of his form emerging upon them.

 

[Oni Archives]

あ な た の 心 は 痛 む が 、笑 顔 壊 れ て も 笑 顔

Kirinji calmly observed the distraught woman and best thought it would not be beneficial in order to upset her further. From listening in on the conversation, Kirinji was able to deduce that she carried for that gentleman that had just been hospitalized. Kirinji understood her feelings from experience, though it may be ages, he too once felt what she was currently feeling. The feeling of caring for another individual almost as equal as themselves. Kirinji long having discarded those feelings his loved ones either dead or missing, and his personal relations were kept to a minimal. He hadn't responded to initial confrontation instead opting out to simply listen. When she had decided to move he had done the same and instead sat down within vicinity of her position. "Miasma, huh?", he thought to himself sitting there attentively listening to her speak.

By the time she had started speaking again the white-haired gentleman had rejoined the woman. Kirinji simply glanced up at the other individual reading his body language and visage before paying attention to the woman again. He let her finish her last sentence before he began speaking,

"Naraka? This is Naraka? Kirinji slightly shocked and confused while glancing between the woman and man. "I'm simply here before I was following a man who I thought seemed familiar and next thing I was unconscious and woke up her receiving care. Perhaps either of you could help me in finding him? Does Izanagi ring any bells?"

His honeypool optics illuminated in hope that she, or the man, potentially could further his understanding on his whereabouts. Or even send him on his path to locate said man.

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[Oni Archives]

As everything with Ko was transpiring Eiji moved away from the medical district towards a more quiet and empty area that seemed like a residential area. Eiji sighed deeply as he looked around with an irritated expression upon his face for a moment before leaning his back against a tree with his hands in his sweater pockets. Anyone looking at Eiji at the moment would realize these were signs of depression, *...Guess this is where I am going to die... haha no calculations, planning, or mental attributes can help me here.* Eiji's eyes were full of despair which was hidden behind what seemed like irritation.

As he looked up at the sky in Naraka Eiji would smile for the first time since he entered this place, a sense of calm waft over him as he stared at the sky, *Well at least the sky isn't trying to kill me like everything else here.* He said chuckling to himself quietly for a moment. After a while, it had been quite some time since he left Kasami alone in the medical district waiting for Ko. He was hoping something had changed but he was sure what might have changed and with that in mind Eiji stood from against the tree turning to head back towards the medical district.​

 

[Oni Archives]

Since Kasami’s attention had moved back to the door, she was aware of Ikki’s return. Seeing him caused her to relax, if only slightly. She could tell that nothing had happened with Ko that would be considered bad news- call it a gut feeling. As he rejoined her, she stood up and turned toward the stranger. She’d encountered him twice, and both times she got the impression from him that he was... spoiled. Her arms crossed over her chest, raising a brow at him with a scowl on her lips. “So you were following someone here, and drowned yourself without noticing?” Kasami tilted her head back to look up at Ikki, towering over her with his eyes set upon the other man. “Is there another way to get here that I don’t know of for people that aren’t oni?

After she asked, she looked at Kirinji again and pursed her lips. “Why are you looking for Izanagi?” She wouldn’t mention that was where they were headed or that he was in the next village over. Kasami didn’t trust this person in the slightest, and didn’t really feel like giving him information that would unfortunately cause her to run into him again either. If he was looking for him, that meant she’d run into him again when they reached him too- if he made it there at least. One could hope that he’d fall in a pit of spikes on the way. The thought caused her to smirk slightly as her eyes glistened as if she was daydreaming of something she adored.

“Welp! I’m hungry. She said with forced cheerfulness as she was pulled from her thoughts. Sorry, can’t help you. We don’t plan on leaving til he is feeling better. Too bad so sad, so great to see you again- you can leave now. The Senju rattled it off quickly, hoping he’d get the point as she walked out of the temple, passing him a quick glare as she left. When she was out of the temple she stopped and closed her eyes, taking a deep breath to tilt her head back and feel the warmth of the air around her. She didn’t want to leave, but she knew Ko would want her to take care of herself too. All she was going to do was get some food, she’d come right back. At least she had to tell herself that to even get herself to leave.

Not being one for seeming like a damsel in distress in public, she put a smile on her delicate features and made her way toward where the festivities were happening, hoping to find some food. She did have the two vouchers that Tengu had given them too. Though she didn’t really want to shop around right now, it would take too much time. That could wait until Ko was treated, or they made it to Izanagi’s village. If she spotted something in passing- she’d consider it.

Unbeknownst to her, she had passed by someone that had been keeping their eye on them. Perhaps she should have paid a bit more attention, but she didn’t feel as if the business of anyone in this village was hers. In passing she glanced at him and cast him a smile politely, as she did with all of the other villagers and strangers she came across that took note of her. Being too friendly? Possibly, but it was also rude to ignore people and walk around with a stick up your butt too. Even if she was still upset about Ko.​

 

[Oni Archives]

[Directed towards: Eiji]

=The sound was loud, wanning, drawing ever closer with much haste in the way that it approach. It was a sound a'kin to footsteps however there was something specific about them. Like the footsteps were dragging lazily across the ground as it drew closer and closer to where Eiji had stepped away from everyone for a moment. Suddenly with a loud *THWACK* it was done...his eyes were upon him. . . The masked merchant from Kyotoshiro village that had offered him two choices of foodpill from before only to get turned down, but this time he was wearing the wide eye'd smiling mask that the merchant whom sold Sentou his tonfa were wearing. He had carried his stand, all this way and slammed it on the ground to the side of Eiji where if he looked over he would only see the merchant shuffling a box upon the item stand. First a big box, then he opened that box only to reveal another one - then that one to reveal another box. Then he placed that one aside and popped open the next - *Gasp* only another box and to follow? You guessed it - yet another box till finally he opened the final one to reveal before him, the blue food pill that he had before. This time the man was far more aggressive - insistent even despite the fact that the man could not speak; his message was projected crystal clear. He snatched the pill - though delicate and eloquently in the way that his fingers gently took it up and he thrusted his hand at the boy revealing to him the pill. He would then only stand there with his hand out presenting the pill...to his decision what he do with it.=

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[Addressing: Kasami, Ikki, Kirinji]

=Eien stood there at the tree, watching as things transpired - listening in on the conversation. He could hear what they were speaking of crystal clear despite how far he was away from them and as things started to leak tid bits of information he started to wonder who that boy was that they brought here in the first place. He recognized Ikki - wasnt a hard face for him to forget and so he was in confusion about who to trust and why they were here. Ikki was a trusted face...but so was Gunji at one point and Ai was certainly one of the most trusted. An ice cold - bitch, that had taught Eien never to let his guard down no matter the scenario. Would he allow his gentle internal nature to blind him to what could have been right before his eyes? The time came that Kirinji spoke of how he got here and he knew that he was following him at one point - after all, it was Eien that took him to the medical ward while he was still unconscious, so he knew his story to some extent. However what he had not known was that the reason he had been following him at all was because he was seeking Izanagi - something that would have urged him to simply leave him before. His teeth grit at the revelation but somewhat eased when the woman so blatantly egg'd him off. Obviously not a fan and not giving him all the info that he wanted it was apparent here that at least all of them werent together on something and they seemed to not be aware of exactly the full ramifications of where they were and what was going on around them. This soothed Eien enough that the Hadou subsided in minor measure - but soon the girl was passing him by and looked his way as she started to cross off towards the festivities. His mind told him to seem approachable, but his body had just tasted the Hadou and he was not fully aware of how he may have seemed on the outside. His glare - it was piercing, more so then you would think if he had his sharingan activated and he peered deep into the windows of her soul as she passed by...then redirected his attention back at the others she had left behind. He'd need to get moving soon, things were getting active enough that he was concerned that he would be made at this point.=

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