Leaf District

*Listen while you Read*

Her eyes were closed, a gentle breeze drifting across her face as she debated the next step she would take. To return home, or prepare for war? She might have remained there the remainder of the night had she no felt his presence coming to her. He wasn't concealing himself as normal, so he must have wanted her attention.

When he came to rest not far from her, she turned, gray eyes landing on him gently. It might have been seen as a sign of neutrality. She didn't even flash the clans infamous eyes as a warning. There was a moment of silence before she tilted her head upwards, acknowledging his presence. It seemed that she was waiting for a bow, an acknowledgement of her rank to him, but she moved on quickly.

"Listen to the ramblings of a Lady a moment?" She asked, her tone lighter somehow. She looked towards the gates, a sense of.... familiarity drawing her towards it. It felt like a presence... something willing her to revert herself to the hateful being she had grown as. But further in the village was an ache. She could not sense Mujin, just as she was sure he could not sense her, but she knew he was there. "Life is full of crossroads. Choices you have to make that change the path of your entire life." She sighed, a sad smile coming to her face as she turned, heading further into the village, away from the gates. "You spend your life being told your choices influence others, but I doubt people ever think of the weight some will come to bear."

As she walked it was clear she expected Shijo to follow her steady pace back to her residence.

"I trust Gyoken is recovering well?" She asked. "Otherwise you might not be here to ask your burning questions?"

Location: Gates of Leaf
Posting Order: Mirai Uchiha → Shijo/Anbu
Post Time Limit (PTI): 3 Days
Skip Points: lll​

Throughout the land was a sound - like a song - produced by the animals in the wild, with the birds and insects creating a harmonious melody, almost as if it were meant to symbolize peace. As the Uchiha approached the gate, his eyes darted to the left, examining the Stone Ninja before discerning familiar chakra in the child. The guards were quick to dismiss the statement of the child, treating him like a suspicious agent. This was also the same for Ichijo who had arrived just now. For a moment or two, the Uchiha revealed his face as he removed the hood. The Shinobi was quick to address the Uchiha in such haste. "L-Lord Hokage!" The man muttered upon realizing the man's identity. The Uchiha gestured to the guard with a hand, dismissing the man's mislabel. "Please, don't give the child the wrong information," the man whispered. "It's Suzaku that's the Hokage right now that he's seeking, no?" the man corrected the guard. The sound ceased to a dumbfounded silence which warranted the Uchiha's suspicion. His perturbed eyes examined the environment for a moment. "Lord?" The guard murmured. "I'll take the child. He's under my watch until we meet Suzaku." The Uchiha said as he advanced through the village gate, assumingly that the Four Tails host would follow. The Tailed Beast may have encouraged the boy based on its intimate knowledge of the Uchiha's personality. Whatever the case is, he had no choice but to follow him.

After some time passed they continued to walk toward the Hokage's office.



"Is it possible that they're already here?" he thought. "There were also the eyes I saw earlier... it was strange. It resembles mine. How could it be?"

A shift of the dramatic to say the least. Two people stood in front of each other. One with many fables and stories whilst the other stood a testament of anew. Both bore the complexity of being a Uchiha, what tremendous pressure would be on either to stay relevant to the times which greatly was needed from an individualistic point of view. A replication of the past was never necessary but for the future a bright new tomorrow could be dawned. The fabled Mirai seemed to be a woman of many questions, especially ramblings which comprehensively pointed towards the youthful Shijo. The woman walked steadily towards her home and beside her was Shijo who had so many questions for her regarding the Uchiha Clan. The childish antics were not a calling card of Shijo, he was heavily engraved within his Anbu Black Ops outfit, however without a mask, it was as soon as she began to walk he would follow her very footsteps. Purposely he engaged in conversation with the woman who was regarded to be the Lady of the clan.

“He is fine, just exhausted from the transformation as well as the exams which recently concluded. For me, I wanted to see the might of the Uchiha Lady but it seems like even from that doppelganger you were trying to hide from me your power, weren’t you?” He prescribed it in a rather suspicious way.

Straddling more and more through the streets you could see the citizens peacefully going their way and less mindful of the two which stood within their brass. As soon as he finished directing the first question to Mirai Uchiha, the spry and confident Shijo led to another question.

“What do you know about Tenbo Uchiha?”

They were no more than about four minutes away from the location of the household which belonged to Mirai and Mujin Uchiha. His eyes keenly observed the fascinated view, as the steps became longer and longer. It was most likely that Shijo Uchiha was out to find out about this other Uchiha relic. For him, Mirai would be someone who could bring light to him and what he is essentially about especially when it comes to the wellbeing of the Uchiha clan and the village respectfully. His question though, was some one part of two part question but, it was not something he cared to just blurt out. He was meticulous and calculated with his questions. He was not worried at all about what the Uchiha Lady would say at this point in time. He only cared to get an answer at all costs.

The feeling of desperation would never be something that Shijo displayed, not even in this situation. He remained cool and very collective with the way he carried himself and the way he pressed for answers. This was in fact an investigation tactic which even for him was very diligently done. It was now or never for the Uchiha Lady to respond but whether or not she chooses to be one to say a word towards the young man. Only time itself would tell whether or not her answer bears any fruit.

Location: Gates of Leaf
Posting Order: Mirai Uchiha → Shijo/Anbu
Post Time Limit (PTI): 3 Days
Skip Points: ll​

Listen while you read~
​

Taichi watched the mysterious man walk up to them as if out of no where. Taichi would naturally take a step away from him until he was hit with a rush of now familiar chakra.

" Taichi I remember this man. " The four tails barked into Taichi's mind. " He is of the Uchiha clan, be wary of his eye's I remember this being as Ichijo he was one of the few that had no care of the Tailed beasts chakra, at least from when I remember him. This is a dangerous Shinobi to happen across. " Son Goku warned Taichi as Taichi looked towards Konoha and away from the Uchiha, a small flash back of Tai's father Itami hit his mind.

---

" Look into the eye of one of those Dojutsu users and you end up fighting two battles! Watch their bodies! "

---

Taichi had little experience with the sharingan form the chunin exams as well, but with a warning like what Son-Goku gave Taichi, figured it would do little against someone like the being approaching him. Calculating the risk of speaking with this Shinobi instantly Taichi would take a step forward and begin; "I'll follow your lead to the village, If i know my Father-Tsuchikage he would have sent for an emissary to go to the Leaf District at once. They probably are there waiting for us."

Taichi would motion to hand the man he only knew as 'Lord' the papers verifying Taichi's identity. "Taichi Yamazaki, you are?" He would bow to his senior and until proven otherwise his districts comrade in arms.

---

Location: The Fire District Gates boarding the Mushroom District.
Posting Order: Taichi-> Ichijo
Post Time Limit (PTI): 3 Days.
Skip Points: ll
​

As Mugen's mental walls began showing signs of cracking and breaking, it wasn't until the gaze between his Eyes and Mujins that caused the cracks to seemingly seal close, the shrouded two boys being replaced with two distant cousins of Mirai's and suspected Mugen during Mirai's Birthday Party during the early stages of his youth. The Mental wall that seemed to have been cracking by itself as if something wanting to resurface had once more been caged behind the lies and illusions of Mujin's Genjutsu, but for what reason that would be unknown to Mugen, but clearly not to Tenbo or Mujin as the moment that the Mental wall was repaired, Mugens arm fell to his side, his eyes seeming as if consciousness has returned only allowed Mugen to listen to the last portion of his mentor and Mujins interaction. This leaving the youngest of the Three confused as his head seemed to tilt in confusion, pondering what he was doing during this conversation...

Location: The Hidden Leaf District between UMC and The Hokage's Building.
Posting Order: Tenbo-> Mugen-> Mujin.
Post Time Limit (PTI): 3 Days.
Skip Points: ll​

Ayame's enhanced sensory perception through the Mind's Eye of the Kagura allowed her to swiftly detect fresh disturbances amongst the Uchiha ranks occurring simultaneously across the village. As Ayame relayed each event, Hokage Suzaku absorbed the details with a contemplative calmness at odds with the chaos seemingly unfolding around them. At Ayame's first alarmed report of Mugen placed forcibly under genjutsu, Suzaku raised a hand to still any preemptive response.


"Peace. We shall presume Mujin has adequate internal reasons for now. Unless killing follows, it is an Uchiha affair."

When later informed of Ichijo's abrupt return with an unknown foreign shinobi bearing similarities to the injured Gyoken, Suzaku merely nodded. At his side, Inoka allowed himself a quiet chuckle. "You seem destined to greet each living Uchiha before noon today, my Lord."

Though appearing relaxed, Inoka's senses remained in overdrive telepathically scanning, assessing and cataloguing each disturbance amongst the Uchiha leadership. He was already constructing profiles of the players involved and theorizing on how potential unrest could be exploited for the Leaf's benefit...or detriment, should the Uchiha splinter further. Keeping such a vast network of operatives coherent required tracking many threads at once without losing perspective of the overarching tapestry. For now, they could only watch, gather intelligence, and subtly influence events when able. But soon critical opportunities could emerge to guide the Uchiha fate to align with Leaf prosperity...at any cost.

Hokage Suzaku sat at his desk, veiled in coiling smoke, pondering deeply. Though normally quick to react decisively when threats emerged, the rapid chain of unexplained events involving the insular Uchiha gave him pause. The sheer lack of hard intelligence was vexing. While Ayame and Inoka's tracking skills proved invaluable, observation alone did not provide context for these clandestine meetings and disputes erupting across his domain."There's nothing interesting or a festival going on the Leaf, why would a shinobi of the Stone be a threat? Could the Stone be in trouble" He exhaled frustratedly, smoke pluming. "We are operating deaf currently. Our ears in the Uchiha's shadow councils are conveniently being blocked." Spearing Ayame and Inoka with a piercing glare, he concluded "That situation cannot stand. We must learn the truth swiftly, then act to steer outcomes accordingly, as always."

The Hokage understood that heavy-handed interventions often backfired when handling the proud Uchiha clan. But the lack of facts meant he could not rule out potential threats to village stability. One way or another, the veil of secrecy must be lifted soon - even if Inoka or his agents had to extract the truth through more...aggressive means.

Location: The Hokage's Office
Posting Order: Suzaku/Inoka/Ayame -> New Comers
Post Time Limit (PTI): 3 Days
Skip Points: ll​

Shinsuke stood in the training grounds, his youthful features focused as his Takashi, provided feedback on his recent attempts at mastering a fire technique. The air was filled with the scent of grass and the anticipation of further lessons. Takashi's words resonated in the young shinobi's ears, and he absorbed the wisdom with a serious expression. As he pondered those words, his mind was processing the implications of his previous attempts. The invitation to sit down on the grass was unexpected but welcomed as the young red head joined his teacher. The older shinobi's wisdom was something he respected, and he was eager to absorb the lessons offered. As Takashi continued, Shinsuke's attention sharpened as his sensei delved into the specifics, guiding the young shinobi through the intricacies of his fire techniqe.

As Takashi went on to demonstrate, Shinsuke observed intently. The lesson became a visual and tangible experience. The Uzumaki could sense the elemental energy at play, the dance of fire responding to the ebb and flow of chakra. The demonstration highlighted the importance of moderation and awareness when trying to wield such a jutsu. Shinsuke absorbed the lesson, recognizing the significance of timing and restraint in mastering the art of fire release.
​

Seated on the grassy training grounds, Shinsuke took a deep breath, internalizing the wisdom imparted by his sensei, Takashi. The words echoed in his mind as he prepared to apply the lessons to his fire technique. Mimicking Takashi's posture, Shinsuke raised his right arm with an open palm. His young eyes focused intently on his hand, determination etched across his features. Chakra coursed through him, and he initiated the familiar ignition of fire. The flame danced at his palm, mirroring the initial candle-like flicker Takashi had demonstrated. Shinsuke felt the heat emanating from the controlled blaze, mindful of the balance between chakra and fire. He envisioned the fire as a living entity, a breath that he could regulate. Taking a page from Takashi's book, Shinsuke directed more chakra to the flame, allowing it to grow in size and intensity. The flickering fire responded to his control, which was a testament to the steady application of his newfound understanding. With each passing moment, Shinsuke focused on maintaining a calm and measured approach. The flame, now larger than before, exuded a controlled brilliance. The warmth radiating from the fire felt like a manifestation of his growing mastery over the elemental force.

Emboldened by the success of maintaining control, Shinsuke decided to take the next step. Drawing upon his chakra reserves, he began compressing the flame, concentrating the energy within. The dance of fire took on a new form as the flickering transformed into a radiant, fiery orb held within his palm. The compressed energy glowed with an intense heat, and Shinsuke marveled at the transformation. The orb pulsed with power, encapsulating the essence of the fire release technique he sought to master. Unlike his previous attempts, this version remained steady and composed, as he took in the lesson learned from Takashi's guidance. As Shinsuke lowered his hand, the fiery orb continued to radiate with a controlled intensity. The air around him held a lingering warmth, a tangible symbol of his progress in refining the jutsu. The training grounds echoed with the success of his controlled flame, and the young shinobi's eyes sparkled with a sense of accomplishment. The mentorship and lessons shared had borne fruit, and Shinsuke Uzumaki, the 14-year-old shinobi, now stood up to his feet and was proud at the newfound mastery over his fire release technique. The flames of potential flickered within him, ready to blaze a trail of excellence in the path of the ninja arts. Just as quickly as he created the justu, Shinsuke stopped his flow of chakra and allowed the jutsu to grow smaller and return back into a normal flame before dispersing.
​

Location: Abandoned Training Grounds
Posting Order: Shinsuke - Takashi
Post Time Limit (PTI): 3 Days
Skip Points: ll​

Listen while you read~


Mujin would laugh as Tenbo spoke. " You've always been a poet for words. " Looking back over to Mugen, Mujin would poke him in the shoulder. " You with us? You look beat, long day? "

Mujin would motion they start heading out of the alley and into the street. Walking towards his home Mujin would think on what Tenbo said. As he took his first few steps, a trail of smoke following Mujin, he came to a stop, Mujin looked back at Tenbo and Mugen. Mujin's sensory technique would go off like a radar, muscle memory, practiced and typical of him to be doing. Mujin would ash his cigarette before putting it back in his mouth and grumbling to the two Uchiha behind him.

" You'll have to come by and tell me of your adventures. After this wedding you'll find out we all really are after the same thing. Expect a visit from Sensei soon by the by. " Mujin would bow to both Mugen and Tenbo before dashing off towards his residence.

---

If the two were coming with him directly that would be fine, Mujin no doubt was going to have words with his finance and the more people around the more blunt of a verbal beating he would take. Mujin came to a crouched landing at the gated fence of his residence. There he would send out another sensory ping.

" Hnn... "

Mujin would lean against the gate and await those nearby. Closing his eyes for a respite seemed nice. There he would allow his mind to fully submit to his sensory skills. Entering a state of conscious meditation.


Location: In font of Mirai and Mujin Uchiha's Home.
Posting Order: Tenbo-> Mugen-> Mujin-> Mirai-> Shijo.
Post Time Limit (PTI): 3 Days.
Skip Points: ll

​

*Listen while you Read*

She chuckled at his first question. She knew that her clone had made the decision to use as little of her arsenal as possible. It was, of course, a decision she herself would have made.

"It would be unbecoming of a leader to put down a clansman for something out of their control. Nor do they reveal the full scope of their ability at the first moment of conflict. Escalation of force will result in the desired effect, as opposed to a killing blow." She thought for a second. "And I did not need my arsenal to defeat the Two-Tails. Even if my clone was but a portion of my power."

At his second question she halted, staring at Shijo. So she was not the main objective. Tenbo was. His views on the Shinobi world had caused a rift between the once formidable team, with her on one side and he on the other. Both yearned to bring the other to their plight, both would never fully understand the others view because they were too proud, too strong, to be swayed.

"Tenbo..." She said. "Tenbo is a good man. He may be lost in some ways, but in others he has found himself, and become a better Shinobi for it." She stopped, waiting for Shijo to look into her eyes, her gaze gentle, but commanding, and holding a plea. "I understand your duty, Shijo. I understand the magnifying glass that our clan is under, and the one you too must be under as a clansmen. But I'm asking you to trust me. Not only as our leader, but as the woman who watched you grow into the man you are today; Trust us. Many wear certain pair of glasses when it comes to our clan, and see us as monsters capable of only conflict and hatred. But many amongst our ranks only want what is best for our clan, and what is best for the district. We want peace." Her tone shifted. "Before you raise your hand at an attempt to strike us down, give me but a moment to keep that peace."

It was a plea, but a warning. She was a projection of her people's wishes, but also their protector. If the Anbu deemed them enemies of the Leaf, she would wholeheartedly destroy the Leaf to protect them.

She relaxed, the aura gathered around her stilling as her residence came into view, a figure at the gate resembling her fiance.

Her body disappeared from beside Shijo, rematerializing with her arms wrapped around him in a comforting hug. A bizarre display of affection as her lips hovered next to his ear.

"He's asking about Tenbo." She whispered in a voice only he would be able to hear. She turned, her gaze landing on Shijo once again. "That reminds me, you were looking for Mujin earlier today, weren't you, Shijo?"

She could feel more people nearby, their signatures familiar. They were nearby? She wondered if they were going to come closer, but hoped that they would remain out of sight for just a while longer. Their presence would cast suspicion that she was trying to alleviate back on her.

Location: In font of Mirai and Mujin Uchiha's Home.
Posting Order: Tenbo-> Mugen-> Mujin-> Mirai-> Shijo.
Post Time Limit (PTI): 3 Days.
Skip Points: ll

"The power of the tongue is a true one." he swiftly retorted to his elder brother, the phrases rolling off his tongue with nimble agility, gradually diminishing in volume as he concluded. His brother embodied care, a figure shaped by love, honor, and a stringent code—an aspect Tenbo had recognized long ago. Yet, it also explained why serious conversations between them were not always straightforward. Tenbo, driven by a thirst for challenge born out of necessity, was a man of logic, science, experience, and experimentation. In stark contrast, Mujin followed a different path. Two brothers, sharing the same blood, yet diverging in their individual resolutions. Despite Tenbo's penchant for challenge, their bond remained unbroken, a testament to the enduring thread of love that transcended even the profound differences between them. With a deliberate closing of his eyelids, he deactivated his formidable ocular prowess, simultaneously suppressing his energy to evade any form of chakra sensory detection. Swiftly, he vanished from his original position, seamlessly blending into the bustling crowd. If Mugen managed to keep pace, their journey would swiftly lead them to the residence of the Hokage. The inevitable clash between the commander of Root and the leader of the shinobi was merely a matter of time, an impending confrontation that hung in the air, charged with anticipation - unbeknownst feelings by both parties readied.

Location: The Hidden Leaf District between UMC and The Hokage's Building.
Posting Order: Tenbo-> Mugen
Post Time Limit (PTI): 3 Days.​