Virtual Insanity

Pecking at the door drew her away from the sound of quill, she had heard the gentle steps of Arantima earlier as he left his room - and simply kept to her reply. Or failed replies rather to the kage of an unknown village, only when the pecking persisted a few seconds to long did she finally halt her fourth attempt at a reply. Standing and stretching - arms high above her head - before moving to the door and opening it to a twittering Pakuun who flew into the room and swept around it a few times before settling on the papers at her desk. “Your presence is requested at the training grounds, Mizuki!” The high pitched voice was slightly grating so early in the morning - but she only had herself to blame for her less than stellar mood. Sleep had been evading her for what felt like months now - but she had requested this early training so she had only herself to blame. Shutting the door she strode to her wardrobe to slide out of the loose silk robe into a tight black bodysuit - strips of fabric going down over the top of her hand and wrapping around her middle fingers - finally slipping into stealthy shoes that came up just past the ankles.

Before leaving the room she would snatch the VR scroll from her desk and hold a hand out wordlessly for Pakuun to come. The small owl would flash to her shoulder, settling himself as she shut her door behind her. The path to the training grounds was familiar enough and as she entered one of the rooms to find Tima leaning against a wall between two pillars - a quick glance around would show several other pedestals set up with slightly steaming cups, rice balls and a small familiar pill beside them. Shaking her head slightly she went over to the one furthest from the door - lifting the cup to smell strong scented black tea before popping the red pill into her mouth and taking enough of the hot liquid to wash it down. Instantly the effects of the blood pill centered her - the cracking of her mental wear smoothing over as the vibrant violet of her right eye consumed the encroaching tint of crimson.

“You outdo yourself.”, gripping the cup in her right hand she gripped the scroll holding the VR arena tighter. As if speaking to herself, “I hope everyone is ready for today.” Setting the cup down after a few more sips, she moved to the middle of the empty space, Pakuun swaying on her shoulder with her steps. Moving the scroll to be held in both hands she would break the seal and allow it to unfurl. The space transforming in an instant around her to house eight equally spaced full body chairs; a face covering sitting in the center of each. With a side glance to Pakuun and jut of her chin the small owl flew off to perch instead on the pedestal she had used moment before - instantly puffing out to clean his feathers.

Taking a deep breath she would turn her attention to Arantima once more, and the scrolls meticulously placed before him. With a smirk she would poke at him, “Did you have some art or possibly poetry you wanted to bestow upon us before we embark on this bloody evaluation?”

wc 560

Saya tried to keep her head high. She was a guest. In a way. However, she was also a bit of a prisoner because she wouldn't be able to leave freely without an escort. The woman was only there for the time-being, but she had somewhat of a free reign in the settlement. No one stopped her from going anywhere so it didn't seem like there were any "off limit" places that she needed to be aware of. As such, Saya was roaming about in the training grounds. It was nostalgic for her. Not the actual training grounds, of course, since she was new there and everything, but it simply made her think back to her youth. She had practically lived at the training grounds, practicing the meager and most basic of jutsus, and trying to optimize the way to throw her weapons.

The entrance to the property had two towering hooded statues with chains going from one wall to the other, almost intimidating any who dared to approach it. But if one were to look closer the door to the premises was slightly ajar, beckoning to curious minds and inviting them with an ominous red glow from inside. Saya had gone in, awed by its expansive scope. She kept to the wall, however, idly following its trajectory until she came upon what seemed to be built-in rooms. Now that was curious.

Moving closer Saya noted that several of the doors were closed. The young woman didn't bother to check if they were locked or not. It was a well-known courtesy that if doors were closed then they weren't open for invitation. It didn't take long for her to come across one room that had its entryway cleared. There was a familiar voice, words filtering in and out as she stepped closer - "Did you have [...] or possibly poetry you [...] bestow upon us before we [...]  evaluation?" Saya knocked at the edge of the door after hearing the end of the question to announce her presence, and immediately dipped her head in greeting once she laid eyes on a man she had never seen before and the lady that had pulled her through the "veil of nothingness" (as she had taken to calling it).

"Hello," she said, feeling a little out of place now that there were people to talk to. Well, there was that guy yesterday, but that was one person. Now it's her benefactor and another person. Saya cleared her throat, "Sorry for interrupting. I just, uhm, saw the open entry and got curious..."

As she was speaking her hands had clasped themselves in front of her before moving to gesture to the passage she had just walked through.

For a beat she didn't think she was going to say anything more until, "I'm Saya. Saya Kirihara, and I just wanted to say thank you for letting me stay."

That was not awkward at all. Saya, embarrassed for not having introduced herself earlier, began to look around the room. She noted that there were several pedestals - most had a cloth and pill placed on them, another had rice balls and tea, and the last two had scrolls positioned on them. Huh. There was certainly something going on. A form of group training, she supposed. It looked like it with the presentation put out.

---

WORD COUNT: 553
TOTAL WORD COUNT: 553

The light pecks that sounded at Kana Mi’s door drew her from the nap she was currently in. She was a light sleeper, so even the tiniest pecks from such a tiny creature was still enough to wake her from the brief cat nap. With a soft exhale from her slightly parted lips, Kana drew herself from the spot that occupied her window. Coming up to a stand before she retrieved a change of clothes.

It was her usual attire of dark rawhide legging and cropped vest that revealed her narrow navel, with the belt that wrapped slightly slanted around her hips. The boots were always a must. After deciding that there was nothing else she needed, besides the very few accessories that she possessed, Kana exited from her room and followed down the corridor with the intention to appear at the training area. The kunoichi did recall some mentions of training with the group, during the latest discussion at the time of Mizuki’s return.

How the training would go? Kana didn’t have a clue. But she was ready to give in to the adrenaline that would follow.

As she came near the door that led to the training area, Kana could pick up the fluttering beat of an uncertain heart. The rhythm was slightly accelerated, which was unlike Yazui. He wasn't the type to casually break from his calm composure. As she drew closer, Kana came to realize that it wasn’t Yazui in the slightest.

Kana met the back of a female that possessed hair unique to the color of lilac. It seemed as if the woman was a little hesitant about entering through the a jared door. No doubt if Kana was to announce her presence, it would possibly catch the unknown female off guard. Especially since the red haired kunoichi was accustomed to ghosting around in silence. Kana didn’t utter anything, following into the room after the woman, as she introduced herself as Saya Kirihara. She wasn’t expecting another new guest within Yugure’s walls, but Kana did find it interesting. Her curiosity was peaking.

Through the doors were both Arantima and Mizuki, and the many chairs that took place within the room. Her eyes scanned over the pedestals that were occupied with a red pill, and some with snacks. “I’m beginning to feel a bit spoiled. . “ Kana went over to one of the pedestals, taking the pill delicately between her fingers, before pocketing it for later use. “The treats are adorable. . including the new little guest we have here.” Her words teased while a smirk that curved the right corner of her lips.

{436/436}

The young Kyuketsuki was found in his room, similar to most in the area. The pecking on the door was from a familiar source, Pakkun. Kinko was aware of the meaning and continued to prepare without further acknowledgement. Of course, Kinko did not want others to be left waiting but he was certain he was not going to be last. Kinko tried to find his calmness in entering this realm. He was aware this was group training, this was serious! Kinko knew this was going to be a significant test, one where there would be nothing that can be done now to put him in a better position, which was relieving to him. Kinko paced around his room, preparing himself for scenarios. What would he do if this or that happened, while forming the handseals or practicing the footwork. He walked through his forms, ensuring to remember his tools, weapons, skills, and abilities to be able to recall techniques as needed. Of course, he was concerned but he would never let anyone show it. Soon, Kinko would leave his room in his burgundy boots and gloves, dressed in his signature long black cloak covering his body. Kinko left his room and made his way towards the training area, almost like a fighter walking down the alley to a ring or cage. Kinko had fought before but never with...these people.

Kinko would soon find himself entering through the doors, without hesitation. He never hesitated as he had a sense of determination in his mind. He saw an open chair and went directly to it. His eyes gazed over each person, with little expression to offer. Kinko clearly was ready to start this training, even though he could tell they may not start right away. His feet found themselves in front of a pedestal and his hand flung the blood pill into the air, catching it directly in his mouth, like popping pills. Kinko then took the moment to look over each person, giving them enough eye contact to acknowledge their presence without having much to say.

This was a different Kinko, this is what he was like when he was focused. Surely not as fun as usual but Kinko was going to take this very seriously. He had a perception in his mind of who he wants to be and he will strive to be that person. He will remain calm, strong, and confident even in danger. Kinko was taking this as an opportunity to showcase his skills and abilities and hopefully, he would meet his own expectations.

[427]

Yazui was already preparing when the owl came to summon him. Feverishly pouring over jutsu scrolls and trying to think of combinations and formations. The last time he had received a summoning by the same creature, things had been different. Yazui had become much stronger since then, but his opponent this time was also of a much different caliber. Mizuki was the former Kazekage and probably possessed all the skills this title would imply. It was the first time Yazui would have the chance to compare himself to someone of that level. It was exciting as well as terrifying.

He wasn’t afraid to die today. He knew Mizuki had no intention of killing him (right?). He was more afraid of how much his own abilities would pale in comparison to hears. Yazui was an ambitious man and wanted nothing more than to wield the kind of power Mizuki possessed for himself one day. Seeing her in action would mean seeing how far he still had to go. If anything, he feared being confronted with a goalpost that he might never reach. A gap he would never cross.

Nothing of this would be shared with the bird, obviously. He simply nodded at receiving the message and then watched the animal move on, either to summon the next participant or back to Arantima. Steeling himself one more time, Yazui would close the door to his private dwelling behind him and head towards the sparring room.

On his way there, as he glided through the hallway, an unknown voice caught his attention.

“Saya Kirihara, and I just wanted too say thank you for letting me stay.”

“Hm?”

Appearing in the opening of the room with his usual attire -travel cloak, old headband around his neck, sunglasses-, he would gaze across the room and take in every individual. Some more familiar than others.

There was Arantima, who looked less armed than Yazui had ever seen him. Mizuki herself was there, obviously, enjoying some final refreshment before they would start. Kinko seemed quieter and more focused than usual. Perhaps he was also feeling tense? Kana Mi was admiring one of the blood pills as well as the final person there and the source of the unknown voice. A young woman. Pretty to look at, if not a bit ruffled and unkempt (and who was Yazui to judge about that anyway?). She had also caught Kana Mi’s attention. ”You’re both quite the treat, indeed.””, Yazui thought to himself as he eyed over Kana Mi, his eyes lingering on her exposed stomach and accentuated hips, before directing his gaze at the new girl. “Hello there, Saya-san. I’m Yazui Tenka. Pleased to meet you.” Yazui found that a friendly smile and good manners were the easiest way to put people at ease. The girl looked nervous, possibly a bit out of place and unsure of herself. By reciprocating her introduction, the man hoped to make her feel welcome.

“Will you be joining us? If so, welcome! If not, I’d suggest we exchange pleasantries some other time.”, he said as his gaze shifted to Mizuki. His nervousness had taken residence in the back of his psyche, compensated now by a sense of excitement. The woman’s charisma was undeniable. It had everyone in Yugure in its grasp. And as much as Yazui refused to put her on a pedestal like the others by way of pure stubbornness and pride, he was acutely aware of a desire to impress her. To be noticed by her. It was a stupid desire. He felt like he shouldn’t need anyone’s approval. One day, he wanted to be the one others wanted to impress.

But for now, at this very moment, it was enough motivation to give him the fighting edge he needed. He knew he wasn’t anywhere near her level, but he was sure as hell going to leave an impression!

He would move over to one of the chairs, leaning his hand on the back rest, other hand twitching with impatience.

“So… shall we begin?”

---

672

Arena:

Stood in the middle of the VR set up she was in and had a perfect view of each who entered the room. Seeing the salvaged girl enter was a pleasant sight and the woman simply nodded at her thanks. “No need to apologize, you interrupt nothing, you are free to engage in anything you wish within the walls of Yugure.” The last words had been directed at Saya but her gaze snapped to Yazui as his heart rate increased a few beats at the sight of Saya. Making a mental note to not go so hard on the man in their training - a male pride was hard to mend if a pretty girl was watching. Though if she was paying attention Yazui might not be the only one needing to be watched when it came to the newcomer.

Kinko of course was the most unusual - like a man with blinders on; his whole focus was on his next moves and he was in his seat before anyone. This aura of focus and hunger made her narrow her eyes in appreciation of a side she didn’t know Kinko possessed. Motioning with her left hand for those who were to join to get into their seats she settled at the main screen to adjust the settings for the arena. Having settled on something suitable she joined those who had settled into seats, making sure Saya’s chair was relegated to observer - so when she went under she wouldn’t be able to be hit by anything yet still be able to watch ‘in person’.

Settling the head gear over herself only when everyone else was under - in case they needed help - she was transported into her creation once again. Everything was as vividly lifelike as if they all stood in this simulated arena. The light from a late afternoon setting sun filtered through an interesting array - decaying trees lined the spiderweb paths that interjected and flowed to a single main path that led to a destroyed archway - winding its way through the area was a stream no bigger than 8 meters across at any point. The entire arena stretched from end to end at it’s max length of 65 meters; from the center in any direction a barrier would be felt at 65 meters. The decaying forest was modeled after the very forest that surrounded their home of Yugure - a tactical advantage she wanted them to learn as defending their home was priority.

The distance from the group as she materialized in, was 20 meters since she set herself as the threat and the rest as a solid unit - thus giving her accurate data when she looked it over later; things like defense, healing, counter attacks and the like would be as valuable as sheer power. She wasn’t ignorant, she was a nuke walking into a group of grenades, but first hand assessment was always more valuable. The broken arch was at her back and she stood on the crumbling steps with eyes bright with excitement as they lingered on each of them. In numbers she was at a disadvantage but she didnt worry about that as she allowed their captain inform them on their action - something that would have happened before entering but was needed.

Holding her hands behind her back she stood with a stiff back, watching them like a cat waiting for the mice to scatter - having set her distance far enough to allow them privacy. She had no need for words, for in these moments she was setting aside all trace of emotion she held for them - this was training for her as much as it was for them. In the days to come she would have to kill familiar faces she held love for, and she wouldn't be allowed a moments hesitation due to it. So that part of her that held love was folded and set aside for the Heir of Kyuketsuki to settle in fully.  Her senses were on full alert, smell, sight, hearing and sense of any activity of chakra ready to react immediately.

wc 684
*Entered the VR arena*
Stat page: Mizu Stats

She had been correct in assuming that it was a group training exercise, though one that she was unfamiliar with as she eyed the equipment arranged in the room. The two before her were not at all disturbed by her entrance. If anything, they were almost kind in their approach and tone, allowing her to sit in on their session. Her immediate answer was to decline, but something pulled at her. That sense of nostalgia, that little tick of curiosity. What techniques would these two show? Or the others? Saya could count by the extra machines that there would be a couple more people still to arrive.

"Oh...Oh! Okay, thank you, Miss Mizuki and Sir," she managed to say as the words registered in her head. It was confirmed now. The young woman did not have much restrictions during her stay and she... could observe the group's spar. "I will make sure not to get in the way of the training."

None too soon did she express her gratitude for the privilege given, her eyes caught the image of a red-haired woman in her peripheral vision. She stiffened at the silent entrance before immediately pinking at being labeled "adorable." She was not! The civilian chose to remain quiet though, only giving a smile at the compliment. At least she thought it was meant to be one, or perhaps a little bit of a condescending tease. It was hard to tell.

Despite knowing that she was in the presence of stronger people, Saya had confidence in her skill in being able to detect something, whether it was another person or shift in the atmosphere. Keyword: had. Clearly, she had overestimated her abilities. Following the other woman were two more men, one being more familiar than the other.

Kinko. He was definitely an interesting fellow, even after their confusing and awkward first meeting the day before. The one today seemed different, however. This Kinko was more focused and driven, compared to the one yesterday. His gaze seemed to glance over her and the other before he settled into his seat, ready to get things started.

The other man, Yazui Tenka as he introduced himself, was easier to interact with. Saya turned towards him and gave a proper bow. Not a deep one, but one that gave him the right amount of respect from an outsider and stranger. "It's a pleasure to meet you too, Yazui-san," Saya's smile from earlier widened just a bit. Now, this guy seemed to be one that she could get along with. His demeanor was sociable and easy-going. "And no, I won't be joining. I'll just be an observer today.

But good luck with training!"

Saya waited for a second, allowing everyone else to get to their own places before she herself moved and took a vacant seat. Her eyes trailed over everyone as she observed how they were supposed work the system. Following their steps Saya took the helmet gear and pulled it over her own head, adjusting it slightly for a snug fit. The last image she saw before going under was that of Mizuki, making sure that everyone else had gone safely.

Technology had surely come a long way. Saya's breathing had increased just a tad bit as she took in her surroundings, unfamiliar and new. And too real. Pinching herself did nothing as she blinked at the dying landscape. In the distance was her savior. She couldn't see her expression, but from her stance... she could tell that she was simply waiting and observing the rest as they materialized. The fragmented archway behind her gave for an intimidating picture.

---

WORD COUNT: 605
TOTAL WORD COUNT: 553 + 605 = 1,158

After Kinko and Yazui were the ones left to enter the room, Mizuki continued to to set things up before allowing herself to take one of the chairs. Kana settled into hers and did her best to relax against the material. 


This wasn't the type of thing that the lass was familiar with. There hasn't been a place that she's been that had any technology similar to this, not of recent. 


She placed a hand along the headset before lowering it down. Not exactly ready for her senses to be flooded by a altered sense of reality, but going along with it to be co-operative. 


It only took a brief moment for the changes to take place, for Kana to be thrown into a change of scenery. 


The rays that filtered through the empty, reaching branches, danced within her fiery gaze. She raised her hand over her eyes, as she scanned the arena that took place. The dead trees, and the ruins of the massive arc that towered behind Mizuki's stillouett, were identical to their very home. Just slightly altered. 


Kana also took note of the distance that was between them, and their target. . Mizuki. Getting an estimate of 20 meters between the group and the danger that they were about to encounter. 


Lady Mizuki waited within her spot, as the rest of them were to perhaps come up with some sort of plan. "Arantima, I'm sure you have some sort of highlight that you can offer. I have very little knowledge of either of you when it comes to fighting. Except for Kinko that is."