Terrific Training

Junko couldn’t help but snicker slightly as Oda nervously explained how he had come to call Tsukagakure home. She felt a bit of pride in this moment, she had made the village a safe place for those without a home, and admittedly, she felt like she had accomplished that. As he finished explaining, Junko would simply offer him a nod of approval before shifting her attention to the vagabond before her. Upon extending the offer to teach him as well, he’d agree and mention that he wished to learn the earth element. Junko clapped her hands lightly as she stood from the table then beckoned them to follow her to the river.

Nariko stayed back a bit, watching the three of them as they walked but soon followed after. Instead of joining them in meditation, the horned woman would find a large tree beside the river bed and continue to be on the lookout. Though she knew Junko was strong enough to handle herself, it was still her duty to protect the soon-to-be Kage from any harm. Admittedly she felt jealous of the attention her leader often gave to others, but she was Junko’s bodyguard, so that had to count for something.

As Oda and Takeshi took their respective positions, Junko sat across from them and began leading the two of them through a series of meditations. Though controlling earth and water were significantly different, the fundamental steps of attuning to the element were generally the same. To ensure they were following her instructions and molding their chakra, Junko activated her Ketsuryugan and took the time to inspect their chakra. Thankfully it seemed as if both of them had begun to attune to their respective element, maybe she was a better teacher than she thought.

Before long, they had seemingly grasped the fundamentals of each element and their meditation would conclude. Takeshi would be the first to speak up, explaining that he found the training to be exceptional. A light blush would cross her face as she bowed her head slightly to him and turned her attention to Oda who now spoke as well. He mentioned that he believed he had done it, and inquired about how long they had been at it. Looking up to the sky, Junko would hmm lightly for a moment, unsure of just how long they had been in their trance.

”Looks like it took us about an hour and a half to get through it. You both did phenomenal, I’ve never had such great students before!”

Junko happily stood from her seated position and dusted off her clothes slightly as Oda began to speak once more. She’d nod as he requested that he teach him a few techniques to go along with his new affinity, she was of course happy to do so.

”Absolutley! Takeshi, would you like to learn some as well? I’d have a pretty large array of things I could show both of you. How about this, I’ll just show you guys some of the basic stuff and we’ll go from there?”

Should they agree, Junko would flash them both an excited smile. Before moving forward, she’d contemplated how to go about doing so. Though attuning to an element was easy, explaining specific techniques could prove to be difficult. After thinking for a moment, Junko would snap her fingers together and turn her attention back to the two of them.

”I have an idea, but I request that you give me a brief moment. Takeshi, this is the first technique I’ll be teaching you, so watch my handseals carefully.”

Junko then would slowly begin to show him the hand seals of Earth Release: Earth Style Wall up to B rank. Upon completion, she slammed her palm down on the ground in front of her, and from the earth, a large wall began to grow around Junko. After a few seconds, a fully formed dome enclosed her, and now she was safe to do one of her more secret techniques away from the public eye. From behind the wall of the dome, Junko began to shout somewhat, hoping they could hear her from the other side.

”You can use this in many ways, but this is my personal favorite. As a caster, being hidden from an opponent can provide you with the upper hand! It can also be used to make just walls, which is equally as good for providing cover.”

As she spoke, Junko pulled out her tanto and created a superficial wound on her thigh after pulling her dress up slightly. Blood began to trickle from her leg, though before it became too big of a mess, she activated her Blood Clone Jutsu technique. Once finished, an exact copy of her sprang into existence from the blood that now trickled down her inner thigh. Using the Mystical Palm technique, the wound on her leg would begin to stitch itself together. After using a bit of water produced by the Drip technique to clean herself off, Junko would call out to Nariko and request her assistance in getting out.

Standing from her relaxed position, Nariko would sign slightly before walking over to the dome and stopping roughly 10 meters away. After taking a deep breath, she’d activate Crashing Thunder Charge and in a flash, she charged through the side of the dome, creating a hole for the Junko’s to exit out from. The real Junko would walk out first, then followed by her copy.

”Since the elements are so different, I thought it best to simply divide my attention equally between the two of you. Does this work for you guys?

Should they agree, the real Junko would beckon Oda to join her closer to the river and the clone approached Takeshi. Each Junko spent the next hour or so explaining various techniques to the two of them and giving demonstrations to both. As time passed, she’d show Oda all the correct hand seals and gestures that were required for a list of techniques. She showed him Rain Tiger At Will, Water Shark Bullet, Water Style Restoration, and the Water Prison Technique. In Tandem, her clone would teach Takeshi the required hand seals and gestures for various earth techniques. She explained to him how to use the Hiding Like a Mole, Underground Fish projection, and Earth Style Wall techniques.

Once their training was completed, Junko would request that her clone return to the Kage Tower to see to any duties that called to her, and after giving her a bow, the clone would head off. Turning her attention to Oda and Takeshi once more, she spoke up in a happy tone.

”I hope you both enjoyed yourself, there's a few other things I could show the both of you if you wish. I know it’s a lot of information to absorb, so if you need a moment to rest I understand.”

Junko stretched slightly as she waited for their response.

WC: 1214
Total WC: 2149

Oda was amazed at the display of technique and power Junko displayed, and despite not being able to use Earth elemental jutsu he made sure to pay attention to the hand seals as well. As the silent bodyguard crashed through the stone Oda gave a bit of a gasp at the strength of the crashing charge. Upon the reveal of the two clones Oda couldn’t help but wonder at the reason for the need to hide behind the wall, he dismissed the thought, perhaps her technique was a private matter. He gave a clap in appreciation for the show, and nodded at her question “Of course Ms.Junko” He gave a quick clap on the shoulder to his fellow Terumi “Good luck with the training bossman!” He said before moving down towards the river, complying with the beckoning of his village leader.

At the instruction of Junko, they began with the hand seals for each of the jutsu in question. This was always a weak point for Oda, and he struggled to maintain fluidity. The presence of his village leader Junko however greatly aided in calming him and helping him gain some familiarity with the hand seals. In no time, he was rapidly cycling through each jutsu with ease and efficiency. He commended Junko for her guidance, and eagerly launched into actively attempting each jutsu. He was filled with a zeal to prove himself to his village leader, and while usually sporadic and unfocused, Oda couldn’t afford to squander this opportunity to learn from Junko. He locked in with a focus and determination usually reserved for his fights.

His first one he attempted was the Water Prison Technique, this one felt natural to Oda. And, with the adept tutoring of Junko, in a matter of a few uses of the technique Oda felt confident in his ability to use it on command. At first the sphere would come out wobbly and uncontrolled, before quickly splashing harmlessly to the ground. Junko emphasized the needed control on the users chakra to maintain this technique, sharing some insight on what was missing from Oda’s own attempts. By the time he was done learning it, he could form a single powerful Water Prison. He grinned in satisfaction with his use and let the jutsu drop. He knew there was more to explore with that particular jutsu, but for now he resolved himself to moving on to his next goal.

The next jutsu Oda focused on learning was one he had heard of many times and even seen used before when he was a child. He had not seen it used by Junko however. She efficiently did each hand sign making sure Oda got a good look before motioning with her hand and sending a flying Water Shark Bullet arcing through the sky at incredible speeds. He didn’t think he had a shot at making it as strong as his Kage did, but he gave it his all in forming one nonetheless. As usual he at first struggled with the hand signs, but calmed himself and immersed his state of mind to a peaceful state, one that he felt gave him a more direct connection to the water element.

As he entered this state, the hand signs flowed out of him seamlessly blending into the next, the usual torrent of water that he envisioned was a still lake which he gently and quickly formed into a shark of water. It shot out of the imagined lake at the same time he ended his hand signs, he quickly motioned with his arm and a shark roughly 5m in length and 3m in height shot out of the river next to them. It wobbled and careened around before colliding back into the river. Oda was satisfied with his first attempt and could feel an affinity with this jutsu. With some further guidance from his Kage, it was a simple matter to improve upon this particular jutsu.

She taught him better positioning with his hand seals to allow for a more fluid transition into each one, slowing down her own usage to allow Oda to memorize it. Next he described his method of envisioning how to connect with his chakra, and she shared various insights on how to strengthen that connection. By the time all was said and done Oda was seamlessly flinging sharks out of the river with rapid ease. The sharks were full size and ferocious. He still had not reached the speed or power that Junko had, and she even showed him an additional effect by riding the shark. He gave an excited clap as she raced around the river briefly. He was excited to further his study of that jutsu, but for now felt the need to move on to the others on his list. He thanked Junko profusely for the display of the Water Sharks true abilities and then began receiving instruction on the next Jutsu.

The next jutsu was one that was harder for Oda to obtain. He had been interested in enhancing his abilities ever since he had learned his Katon Fire Invigoration technique, and he was excited to learn that the Water release had its own version of it. Water-unlike Fire- was still a somewhat new release for Oda, and he struggled to fully connect with it at times. His first attempts at the Water Style Water Restoration technique went poorly. It seemed as if the similar nature of the two jutsu were interfering. Everytime Oda would attempt to use Water Restoration, only for the Fire Invigoration to take over. His chakra would shimmer blue for only mere moments before being seemingly burned off by the red presence of the Fire release. He sighed in slight frustration letting his jovial demeanor falter.

Junko aided Oda in his hindrance, helping him to learn the essential skill of compartmentalizing, holding two concepts in one's head simultaneously. It was something Oda was weak at, up until now it had not been a problem, but now it seemed to be interfering. With Junkos guidance, Oda was able to switch his mind palace, the place where he integrated his chakra with the elements. Now instead of a void, it was a series of separate voids, 4 of them currently floating in a bubble. In one sat a spinning sphere of flame, in another a small sphere of rock, in between them sat one of magma. He envisioned one full of steam, bubbling and stretching with pressure, and yet another filled with water. With some focus, he began to be able to channel each one to a different tenketsu, and with that gained more control of what he drew from.

From there he attempted another activation of the Water Restoration. He could feel the water flowing from the Tenketsu he imagined it at, feeling the water element flow over him like water from a shower, running from his temple and down his back and through his arms. He could see the tint of blue envelop his chakra and could sense the boost to his body. At Junko’s instructions he imagined a point within 10m of himself, casting a water jutsu he knew. To his amazement he watched as the Water Shark Bullet he had just learned came forming out of the moisture in the air. He gave an excited grin at the possibilities and thanked his Kage for the insight, giving a deep respectful bow.

He attempted the Water Restoration technique a few times more, each time feeling the speed at its formation increase until eventually he felt he had reached his maximum potential with the jutsu. He took a brief break, wiping the sweat from his brow before getting back to his training.

The final jutsu he learned he could tell would be very useful. Luckily for him, it was one that he seemed to understand and intuitively be able to grasp quickly. Junko shared some insights to how to most effectively use the Rain Tiger At Will technique, and informed him of its capabilities once a user knew Sensory techniques better. He nodded contemplatively, Sensory was something that had interested him for quite some time. He cast the jutsu a few times to ensure proficiency, but otherwise was delighted to see that this jutsu came easily to Oda. He let the rain of the jutsu hit his face as he looked up and closed his eyes briefly, he was elated to be where he was at this moment, and was only snapped out of his reverie by the sound of earth clashing with earth from far off. Takashi’s training must be going well, he thought.

As the group reformed, Junko would briefly talk with her clone before sending it off to business elsewhere. Oda nodded at Takashi in camaraderie before quickly turning his attention to the Kage as she began to speak. “Sign me up bosslady!” He said jovially, a familiarity forming after their training session, he gave a big grin in confidence and a thumbs up to Junko.

He would wait for Takashi's response as well before giving his utmost attention to Junko as she continued her lessons.

WC: 1525

As the sun began reaching up into the sky marking nearly midday, the three stood from their meditation as Lady Junko began to speak to them in what Takashi would perceive as a rather humble yet enthusiastic tone. He couldn't help but take note of her becoming flush at his compliment as before, her small bow sent in his direction was responded to by a bright smile and a firm thumbs up from his right hand. She presented him an opportunity to learn some jutsu associated with his earth release, to which upon asking his interest he would respond in a calm and light manner as usual. "I feel honored by your attentiveness to those seeking knowledge, Of course I graciously accept Lady Junko." A moment passed as she seemed to zone into her own mind, a snap from her fingers as she herself snapped back to the present moment and she continued the lesson. Addressing Takashi as she performed Earth Release: Earth-Style Wall, her hand slammed to the ground and Takashi could feel the ground seem to tremble from her chakra as it began to encase her in a rock dome. He listened closely as her muffled voice came from within the dome, he was able to hear her though as she explained the usefulness of the jutsu. After a few moments within the tomb of her own making, the guard charged through the wall freeing the woman from her shell of stone and revealing two of Lady Junko walking from the debris and husk of a dome. For only a moment, Takashi's eyes widened, his jaw dropped slightly as a flush color cascaded across his cheeks and the bridge of his nose watching the women walk from the dusty cloud created from breaking open the rock dome. He shook his head and reached down grabbing his sandagosa as though what happened did not just happen, placing his hat upon his head with the cloth ties swinging in the light breeze. As he began to stand up from crouching to retrieve his hat, Takashi's eyes couldn't help but take note of the Junko walking with Oda and the slight glimmer of moisture by her knee as though somehow in the dome she had gotten wet in some way, though he ignored this observation as this other Junko made her way over to Takashi.

Junko would begin discussing a few various jutsu that are derived from earth release, including Earth-Style Wall, Hiding Like a Mole, and Underground Fish Projection. After a short one on one discussion, Takashi would look at the dark haired kunoichi with a smile as he spoke. "I believe I would like to give those walls a go." Takashi would take a wide but sturdy stance, as though he himself had become stone. He began signing in front of his sternum the following hand-seals; Tiger → Hare → Boar → Ram . As the final seal of the Ram took shape a swirl around his feet of dust would quickly occur as he felt the stony chakra prepare within himself. He slammed his right hand to the ground, the impact causing anyone attuned to the ground around them to feel a shock-wave across the surface. The ground would rumble for a second as his chakra poured into the ground, followed by earthen walls bursting from the ground making it look as though Takashi and Lady Junko were standing inside a crater with a 30 meter diameter with them as the central focal point. Takashi would take a moment to observe his creation that surrounded them before looking to Junko for any advice or comment she may grace him with. If she said nothing and proceeded with the next jutsu, Takashi too would carry on with his learning to become a better shinobi himself.

After a moment or two, Junko would continue the lesson and further instructor as they moved on to explaining the Hiding Like a Mole Technique. After she signed the seals and initiated the technique, he would watch as she seemed to slip into the ground as though it wasn't real. Only to reemerge a moment later, having perfectly demonstrated the technique as flawlessly as Takashi could have expected. "I can see the utility of the jutsu, I believe I see what you are doing with your chakra." Takashi would follow the statement by signing Ram -> Tiger -> Boar releasing chakra from the soles of his feet, he could feel the ground soften ever so slightly at his feet. He began to envision himself sinking into the earth below as his chakra control worked as though it was vibrating without a trace allowing the ground to slowly let him begin to slip into the earth itself. Takashi felt more and more resistance as his body descended further into the ground, he was unable in his first attempt to fluidly sink as his sensei did but with time he disappeared into the earth. Whilst in the ground, Takashi could feel subtle vibrations in the earth, it was enough that even in the ground he could still feel the presence of his teacher above him without actually laying eyes on her. Takashi attempted to sense vibrations from Oda, though it would seem he had meandered too far away for Takashi for him to determine his location from his location. Realizing the limitation of the current state of this jutsu, Takashi had a better understanding of what it could be capable of as he rose from the earth and returned to the Shinoda Springs surface across from Junko. He would look into her eyes as he relaxed, attempting to show his undivided attention. "This manipulation is quite fascinating, please continue Lady Junko, your lessons are invaluable." Of course awaiting her response and moving on to the next jutsu when she was ready.

As they proceeded with the lesson, carrying on with Earth Release: Underground Projection Fish Technique as the final jutsu of this lesson. Takashi would watch very closely as she signed the appropriate hand-seals for the technique, he would note the flawless nature of her fluid movements as each seal was performed. Many of the attributes of this technique seemed very similar to the previous; however, this technique was able to respond fluidly and exceptionally fast as she seemed to fluidly move through the earth like swimming in water. Takashi admired the jutsu, it was interesting to think of the concept of moving through solid earth as though it was a liquid. As Junko returned to the surface where she once stood, Takashi would take this as a sign it was his turn and prepare to sign. He would sign quickly yet accurately; Serpent -> Dog -> Boar, each allowing him to begin manipulating the ground below him with his chakra. He treated the chakra very similar to how he had before though this time he maintained his earthen chakra not to move himself, but instead to soften the earth around him as he used his speed to slip into the earth and travel as she had shown previously during the demonstration. After making a lap around the crater at his top speed he jumped from the ground and landed back in the spot he had been standing from the start, Taking a moment to look down at the palm of his right hand as he spoke. "I cannot express my gratitude. I will cherish all you and Tsuki have done for me in my time here, if there is ever something you need in return. Please give me the chance to show my appreciation." his voice was different than usual, more serious, more somber as though he felt sad. Though it wasn't sadness, he was feeling more unworthy of such treatment by these people who barely knew him. He felt indebted to the village for all it had given to him. After a moment, should Junko decide to respond to Takashi's declaration he would listen carefully and regardless of what was said he would shoot his bright smile and thumbs up from his right hand just as before.

As the group started to reconvene together, Takashi would release his earth-style walls as he had forgotten them during the training. The walls would descend back into the earth as Takashi and the Junko he had trained with made their way back together with everyone. He listened as Junko talked with herself, to the version that Takashi now knew to be a clone of the original. Soon the clone would leave on business for her creator, during this time Oda would throw a comradery style nod Takashi's way. His response was to smile back at his comrade, both the clansmen turned their attention back to Lady Junko. She offered even more knowledge as they stood assembled together, Oda was quick to respond with his signature enthusiasm which brought a little chuckle and smile from Takashi. "I agree, I would never turn down such an offer." his grin remaining as he waited to see where the training would lead next.

(WC 1507)
(TWC 1507)

She was impressed by how both of her students seemingly picked up each technique with ease. Though there were a few missteps and bumps, with her guidance it took nearly no time at all for them to grasp the fundamentals of each move she showed them. Though she had only met one other Terumi, she knew much about their clan. Akabayashi was terrifying, and should she nurture the talents within the two in front of her, they had the potential to become monsters in their own right. Admittedly this is why she had agreed to teach both of them, she wanted them to grow stronger, but for a bit of a selfish reason. She knew the safety of her village would only increase with the strength of those within it.

As the group came together once more, she’d inquire about teaching them a few more things before seeing them off for the day. Excitedly, they both agreed and Junko would offer them both a happy smile before beginning the explanation.

”These next two techniques don’t have any elemental affiliation, though they allow you to lessen the blow of an incoming technique.”

She then began to explain the fundamentals of Debuff Bolt before showing them the required hand seals. Activating the technique, a purple, long, lightning-shaped bolt shot from her palm and simply shot into the ground beside her harmlessly.  Once they both seemingly had a grasp on the tech, she’d move on to the next one. It was similar to the previous one, so she briefly explained the best way to use it. Slowly, she’d show them the hand seals for Minus Field and then activate the technique. A 15 m radius, purple aura radiated from her catching the two of them in it, along with Nariko if they didn’t move back. Deciding it was best to place the debuff on her bodyguard, she looked to the horned woman who simply looked back at Junko with an approving nod. Releasing the technique, the aura would recede into her as she looked at them and spoke.

”They’re both similar enough to each other, so if you understand one, you’ll easily be able to understand the other.” Her gaze would shift to look specifically at Takashi, speaking to him directly. ”I fear there’s nothing left that I can show you, though I am rather excited to see how strong you become. I’m not trying to come off as rude, but would you allow me a moment alone with Oda?” Her eyes would look to Oda, as a neutral smile remained on her face. ”There’s some village business I’d like to discuss with you if you have a few minutes to spare?”

Patiently she’d await their response, hoping she didn’t come off as pushy or rude with her request. Though she assumed she could trust Takashi, she still wished to keep her village secrets a bit close to her chest.

WC: 514
Total WC: 2663

Oda nodded at Junko's explanation of the two techniques. One, Debuff Bolt, he already knew well. However, the Minus Field was of particular interest to him and he listened with unusual rapt attention as she went through the hand signs and explained the technique. It took a small amount of time for him to grasp it, he could relate to launching a projectile like a debuff bolt, for some reason that clicked for him. Minus field was a little more difficult, and it took him a couple of tries before he felt comfortable summoning the field.

As usual, Junko's calming presence was more than helpful, and Oda felt his usual frenetic energy calming a bit, allowing him to focus his attention easily and efficiently. He deftly flashed the hand signs a few times, solidifying the muscle memory in his mind and making sure he could do it on a whim just as fluidly. He looked over to Takashi as he did the same and gave a brief shout of encouragement as he formed the Minus Field as well. “Hell yeah Takashi, nice job bossman!” He said with enthusiasm. It only took a brief half hour before both shinobi felt well versed in the two techniques. Oda of course was smiling and as excited as ever, and he thanked Junko profusely for her help.

“Thankyou Ms.Junko your training has been priceless.” He gave a deep bow of respect to his Kage.

As she addressed the two, he stood at attention with his head held high and his chest out, proud of him and his Terumi clansmen’s progress. His posture slumped slightly in concern as she asked Takashi to take his leave. Uh oh what did I do? Did I say something wrong? He thought to himself in a slight panic. He would wait for the conversation between Takashi and Junko ended before erasing any look of concern as Junko turned to address him.

”There’s some village business I’d like to discuss with you if you have a few minutes to spare?” She asked.

He gave a bow of his head, still thinking he might be in some sort of trouble, maybe it was the undercover mission he did earlier? He admits he got pretty in character, but he felt he did the right thing in pursuit of the greater good.

“Of course Lady Tsukiko.” He said in response to her request.

He briefly said his goodbyes to Takashi. “Good training with you bossman, I’ll meet up with you shortly if you want, at our usual spot?” He said in reference to a restaurant they frequented after training.

Regardless of his response, he would nod his head at his friend before turning back to Junko with some concern on his face. He would wait for her to address him before responding, but was aching to know what it was that she had to say. He began to anxiously worry and brainstorm on what he could have done wrong, but remained calm.

---

WC: 500
TWC(since Mid-claim) : 2025

As they all congregated together yet again, Junko would offer even more to teach them. Takashi would of course accept more training, though he felt a little guilty from all the village was giving him and how little he had really given back. She continued to explain these techniques were a form of debuffing an opponent in order to gain an upper hand, Takashi watched in suspense as she began to display a technique known as ‘Debuff Bolt’ which she shot into the ground by her feet. All while she explained how to actually use the technique effectively, he was astounded by the applications for this technique.

As she finished the explanation, Takashi would begin signing fluidly; Tiger, Boar, Ram, and Serpent. Lifting his right hand slightly and aiming it off to the side away from everyone, a quick bolt of purple lightning firing from his palm and disappearing upon contact with the earth. After a few moments of practicing with Oda, Junko carried on with the next technique, signing and casting it as a purple field began to expand from her. Takashi, unsure of what would happen when caught in it, quickly leaped backwards, landing just outside of the edge with surprise. They discussed the technique for a short time, then finally Takashi and Oda began to practice the technique together.

As the training wound down to the end, Junko turned to Takashi and expressed that she had nothing left to teach him. She hinted at wanting to see how strong he could become, then turned to a different subject. She asked if Takashi would mind if she had a private conversation with Oda, the request of course was not out of the question and completely understandable. Takashi responded in his normal calm demeanor, “I am grateful for what you have taught me today…” The pause coming from him was simply him taking a moment to throw his floral kimono back upon his shoulders and placing his sandagosa on his head, he turned to Junko dipping down to somewhat bow and tip his hat with a big smile. “... I completely understand, I bid you farewell My Lady. Oda,” Takashi turned to respond to the ‘meet later’ statement he had made, “I look forward to it, I might have a headstart on the drinks.” He chuckled as he placed his Kiseru in his lips once more lighting the bowl as he began walking back to the village, he lifted his left arm and did his signature farewell of forming an ‘L’ with his thumb and index finger. The gesture might seem off to Lady Junko, but to Oda he would be acquainted with the goodbye. Takashi thought about it as he headed off, but he never told Oda what it meant.

[EXIT]
(WC 461)
(TWC 1,968)
(+1,000 Words Previous Claim for Earth Dragon Bullet is out of date)
(Final WC for Jutsu Only 2,968)

Takashi Terumi wrote:
[EXIT]
(WC 461)
(TWC 1,968)
(+1,000 Words Previous Claim for Earth Dragon Bullet is out of date)
(Final WC for Jutsu Only 2,968)

Claiming: 75% Discount
Debuff Bolt (375/375) B-Rank | Minus Field (375/375) B-Rank | Earth Release: Earth Style Wall (375/375) B-Rank | Hiding Like a Mole (375/375) B-Rank | Earth Release: Underground Projection Fish Tech (438/438) B-Rank | Hiding in Fire (1,000/1,000)
+5 Vigor | +5 Chakra | +9 Speed

Approved!

Like previously, they both easily picked up the techniques she showed them. Admittedly she was quite happy with herself, she never thought of herself as being a good teacher, but maybe she wasn’t too bad. That or her two students were simply prodigies like her, though she chose to believe it was partially her doing. She was happy to hear Takashi didn’t take offense as he thanked her and began to gather his belongings. At his pause, she reassured him that it was truly no problem and that she appreciated him being such a great student. He then would bid her and Oda farewell before heading out, only to turn around momentarily to confirm that he would meet Oda at his normal spot.

He offered an odd gesture as he left, though Junko would offer him a slight wave with a smile. Turning her attention to Oda once more, she was a bit taken aback by his nervous state. If he allowed, she’d reach out a hand to take his and squeeze it gently. In a gentle, warm voice she’d speak up, hoping to offer him a bit of reassurance.

”Oh darling there’s no need to be worried. Please tell me you’re alright. I only wish to impart some things to you, specifically an element that I crafted specifically for my villagers.”

If he had allowed her to take his hand, she’d now release it, realizing it might have been a bit odd for her to do. Unfortunately, she was an affectionate person, and that often came out in times that may make others uncomfortable. Continuing to speak, her voice was a bit sheepish now, but it maintained its warmth.

”I apologize if dismissing him startled you, it’s just something I don’t feel comfortable demonstrating to an outsider. This element primarily uses water, so I figured it might interest you.”

Should he agree, Junko would begin explaining the fundamentals of Lunar Release to him. Though there weren’t currently any techniques she could use to give him an example, she took the time to answer any questions he had about it. She took the time to mention its connection to the lunar deity the natives of moon country worshiped, though she explained that devotion to this being wasn’t necessary to harness it. Primarily she spoke of how the moon often interacts with the tides and how users use their chakra to manipulate the lunar energy in the same way. Once he had fully grasped it, Junko would then shift the conversation to a new topic.

”One last thing I’d like to ask you. You see I’m quite proficient in Fuinjutsu and would like to know if you’d like me to apply some to you. I can give you some that would lessen the blows of incoming attacks, similar to the two techniques I showed both you and Takashi.”

If he accepted, Junko would clap her hands lightly, seemingly pleased with his response. She’d ask where he would like them to be placed and happily obliged. Not wanting to waste any time, both of her hands, began doing separate hand seals. Her right hand did the correct ones for Spellbinding Seal, (70 speed/power) and her left did the required ones for Jutsu Reduction Zone. (50 speed/power) Upon completion, Junko placed them where he requested and offered him a smile. She then would take the time to explain the uses of each seal and how best to effectively use them in combat. If he asked any questions, she answered them honestly, not holding any information from him.

Soon the conversation would come to a close, but before goodbyes were said, Junko would say one last thing.

”I’m happy you decided to catch my attention, I’ve seen your name quite a bit recently due to all the missions you’ve undertaken and admittedly I’m quite impressed. I’m excited to see how far you climb in our ranks, and please if you need absolutely anything, I’m here for you, alright?”

Junko offered him a soft, warm smile, showing that her offer of assistance came from a genuine place. She knew how difficult it was for an up-and-coming shinobi like him, though as long as his alliance remained true to the village, Junko would do anything to help him along his path. Soon goodbyes were exchanged and the two of them parted ways. Nariko followed her out of the training grounds, silently chastising Junko for getting so close to the two of them.

(EXIT)

WC: 785
TWC: 3448

Placing
Spellbinding Seal, (70 speed/power) on Oda
Jutsu Reduction Zone. (50 speed/power) on Oda

WC Claims
1000/1000 Hiding Like A Mole upgrading from B to A rank
625/625 Earth Release: Underground Fish Projection Upgrading from C to B rank
500/500 Healers Reach Upgrading from C to B Rank
1000/1000 Healers Reach Upgrading from B to A Rank

Dropping remaining WC

Oda would wave at his Terumi friend, smiling at the all too familiar goodbye that Takashi had been known to use. He made a mental note to himself to ask what that was about the next time he saw him. With his friend gone, and his nerves high, he turned his attention back to his village leader.

He was slightly embarrassed at how quickly Junko had read his worried expression, but was relieved to hear the gentleness in her tone. Oda would relax considerably, comforted by the gentle squeeze of Junko's hand as they clasped hands briefly. The comfort would soon pass and he took a deep breath, shaking away any of the previous anxieties he held. He briefly considered explaining his reasons for worry, but decided that was a story too sad and too long for a training session.  He would nod and smile eagerly at her proposition of learning Lunar release, losing any sort of concern that had settled on his face.

“Absolutely Ms.Junko. I am honored to be trusted with such a release.” He began to lose any sort of formal decorum that he usually tried putting on when addressing his Kage due to the sheer excitement of new knowledge. As they conversed about the release Oda had many questions about the nature of Lunar Release. Primarily about its functions, had they begun to see how it could manifest in jutsu? Was the gravity aspect of the Moon just a push or could it potentially be used to pull? By the end of their conversation Oda’s mind was alight with ideas and he had begun pacing around as they talked.

“The potential for this release is out of the world, Bosslady!” He pointed and gave a bit of a smirk “Pun intended.” He would ramble for quite some time before Junko had to interrupt him out of necessity and bring the lesson to a close. Before they fully departed, she asked Oda if he would like some protective seals.

“Oh absolutely! I have read up on Fuinjutsu; it's something I am keenly interested in.” He would oblige and let Junko apply the two seals, picking his back, one for each shoulder. After some short discussion on how best to utilize the two seals he would thank her profusely. Coming to the end of their training session, Oda would begin to pack his things up but pause as Junko addressed him for one final time before leaving.

He would listen intently, a pride welling up in him at the compliments bestowed by his Kage, and some general anxiety at being noticed at all. His eyes would go slightly wide at the mere idea of impressing Junko. He would deflect a bit, but was unable to hide how proud he was of his own hard work.

“Ah, this village is worth the effort. And, I’ve got plenty of great shinobi to look to for an example” He would say, gesturing to her with his hands. “I will make sure to do so, Ms.Junko. However, it should be me offering assistance to you.” He would bow his head slightly in respect “If you ever need anything from me, please do not hesitate to ask.” He would clasp her hand one more time if she allowed and give a warm smile. “Goodbye Bosslady, until next time!” He would say with a beaming smile, releasing her hand and giving a big thumbs up. The two would part ways, and Oda would head home feeling lighter than air.

By the time their training had ended and Oda had begun to make his way home, fittingly, the moon had taken its place in the sky for the night. It loomed over Tsukigakure like a protective mother. On a whim, Oda decided to go to his favorite reading spot, a spot that sat up in a small clearing higher up on the mountainous rises above Tsukigakure. With some small effort he would hike up to the spot and take a meditative seat. No better time than now, he would think.

From this high up spot, usually he would meditate by closing his eyes. But this time, he focused his attention on the moon above him, it was a Crescent moon tonight. Coaxing himself into the zen state that all meditation led to, he would observe the moon intently, noting every pock mark, every curve of the crescent. He would strain to feel the lunar light as it refracted off the moon and washed over the land. Eventually, with enough focus he could feel the connection of his chakra points to the moon above. Could feel the slight shifts in tidal forces as the gravity of the moon pulled on the earth. As he could feel the Lunar Release seep into his chakra he began to become hyper aware of the silver sheen that the moon cast on the land, and he became more aware of the various nocturnal animals that moved through the night.

Oda relished in the feeling as he returned home, feeling a strange wakefulness. It was a struggle for him to go to sleep that night, but not out of any worry or any anxiety, it was a happy energy that consumed Oda. He spent the rest of the night imagining different ways he could shape the Lunar Release.

---

[Exit]
TWC: 2914

Claims:

Junko Tsukiko wrote:

(EXIT)

WC: 785
TWC: 3448

Placing
Spellbinding Seal, (70 speed/power) on Oda
Jutsu Reduction Zone. (50 speed/power) on Oda

WC Claims
1000/1000 Hiding Like A Mole upgrading from B to A rank
625/625 Earth Release: Underground Fish Projection Upgrading from C to B rank
500/500 Healers Reach Upgrading from C to B Rank
1000/1000 Healers Reach Upgrading from B to A Rank

Dropping remaining WC

Approved