Cloud District

[Mugen]

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BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!

The sound of the explosion echoed throughout the remains of the region with a thunderous boom! Those who were on the outskirts such as Indira would feel a powerful push of pressure knocking them back a couple feet without severely injuring anyone. One look back at the origin of this sound they would witness that there was nothing left. To say it was washed away would be an understatement because for all intents and purposes it looked as if nothing ever existed on the land in the first place. There was not even a grain or speck of life.

The two clones that occupied inside the dome vanished just as the pressure took over and all the information came back to the original immediately, including Satoru's betrayal and her becoming a victim of the pressure. Whereas the sugar dome would've been a good idea against a minute amount of water, what she was dealing was with knee-high water across the domain inside the dome before it had even been condensed. And when it did, it would not only fill the entire dome, but the pressure from it would cause the very sugar to crumble. It was like throwing candy into the ocean. It would render no effect at all. Indira's typhoon would do nothing either in stopping the dome as he was already outside of it and the outer layer of water does not react well to speed or attacks forcing the water molecules to tighten and remain a hardened outer shell. Of course, the enemy too would be victim of the pressure nuke.

By the time everything would've settled from the pressure nuke, Saburo would've already been gone. There was no other reason to stay and it was time to return home.​

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[STORY]

ARC Begins
Chunin Exams - What's going on!?

In the heart of the Stone District, the day before the highly anticipated Chunin Exams was a flurry of activity. Two weeks had passed since the devastating attack from the Shadow Realm, and the shinobi world was still reeling from the aftermath. However, the indomitable spirit of the villages remained unbroken, and the prospect of the Chunin Exams brought a renewed sense of determination to its inhabitants. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm, golden hue over the shinobi continent, as shinobi of all ages and ranks converged on the sprawling training grounds. The atmosphere was charged with energy and anticipation, a testament to the significance of this event in the shinobi world. Banners bearing the symbol of Stone City fluttered in the breeze, their vibrant colors a stark contrast to the recent shadows that had loomed over their world. Teams of Genin, adorned in their respective land headbands, gathered to finalize their preparations. The air was filled with the sound of shuriken clashing and kunai piercing targets as they honed their combat skills. The many sensei of the young shinobis watched over them with pride as they were easily able to see that their students were determined to pass their upcoming tests.

Shinobi were getting ready for their adventure to the Stone in order to participate and/or spectate while some villagers left with their children and others remained in their lands to watch on TV. Though, with the memory of the Shadow Realms attack still fresh in their minds, they were prepared for any eventuality. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the world, the shinobi's preparations for the Chunin Exams were nearly complete. The village's resilience in the face of adversity, its unwavering determination, and the unbreakable bonds forged through countless trials were evident in every corner. Tomorrow, the Chunin Exams will begin, and the Stone District will host its first exams and stand as a beacon for the shinobi world.

 

[Fox]

To go on a journey can be a dangerous undertaking for those with a reputation, especially when their eyes are sought after on the Black Market. Therefore, whenever they depart from the Leaf District, they tend to conceal their identity, whether it's with a mask or a cloak. No matter what it may be, even if it is a vacation, nothing can prevent bandits or thieves from attempting to acquire their Sharingan, especially the Mangekyo Sharingan possessed by Ichijo, with its own powerful abilities that could significantly increase its price if they were known. "Let's go," the short man said. His appearance shifted the moment they exited the gates. It was impressive how quickly the Uchiha equipped his respective cloak, whose fabrics were capable of blocking even the Byakugan or Sharingan, making it difficult to discern his actual identity. Ichijo's face was concealed by the darkness cast by the cloak, and his eyes appeared to be inactive despite the presence of the Sharingan. The man moved as if he were one with the wind itself, making it harder to detect him as he advanced through the forest. It was clear they weren't alone either, as he could hear their heartbeats, but he pretended not to notice.

After a couple of hours had passed, Ichijo and Tenbo appeared in the midst of the Mushroom District. Ichijo's ears and eyes scanned the environment, searching for any mention of large beasts among the passing civilians in order to pinpoint the rumors. For those who did mention such rumors, Ichijo used the Sharingan to peer into their memories, identifying the source of the rumors and erasing their memories of Ichijo and Tenbo as if they had never been there in a split second. The more they examined the people, the more they found spreading the rumors. It was clear that it was close, whatever the rumor's source was. 'The mountain is moving' was said among their memories. 'Joto... is it?' he thought. They continued to advance through the local towns and such until they arrived at the border of the Land of Tea.

"Sparrow," he said. "Do you have any inkling of where the hunter is?" The man continued, looking around his environment. It was difficult to discern whether they were heading the right way or not or if they had any inkling of where the hunter was. The thought of discovering something new for once had interested him.​

 

[Davon]

he master and the student embarked on a journey initiated by the latter, driven by rumors of fantastic creatures roaming the world. The continent they were on differed from their previous shinobi explorations, promising numerous wonders. The student's intentions, communicated to his master, were sincere; Tenbō aimed to bolster the Leaf District's power, thereby enhancing his own influence and standing within the realms of power.​

He had pursued two objectives: the betterment of his homeland and the pursuit of self-interest. The latter was omitted and concealed from Ichijo, but Tenbō had previously shared his overarching ideology with Team Ichijo. His actions in ascending through the Anbu ranks had led him to his current position as the commander of Root, granting him influence over the special forces and bringing his goal one step closer. The finish line remained distant, yet under the black hood shrouding his face, Tenbō couldn't help but grin. He might be perceived as a hypocrite if anyone were to discover his true desires, but he understood that two conflicting truths could coexist simultaneously. In contrast to Ichijo, Tenbō didn't maintain his Sharingan active at all times; he possessed a more relaxed and composed demeanor, unlike his sensei.

With the search in progress and the information Ichijo had gathered, Tenbō remained ever vigilant, carefully considering both the surroundings and the individuals and creatures encountered along the way. Nothing eluded his observation, and his memory retained every detail, allowing him to gradually weave together the information. The areas they had traversed were remote, far removed from any major or minor villages, making it unlikely that these rumors had reached them. The only reason Tenbō had come across the rumor was a matter of luck, or perhaps there were other undisclosed reasons at play. Despite the seemingly inconsequential explanation, the Sparrow decided to respond to Ichijo when questioned. "My source said, Joto, would likely be near the border between the Tea District and the Cloud District, perhaps within a hut, indulging in the taste of man's delightful creation, sake. To locate him in this vast area, we must continue our search and hope that luck favors us." Tenbō suggested to Ichijo.

 

[Mugen]

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THE DRAGONFLY BAR​

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As bypassers shifted through the alleyway and made their way into the tavern, the scent of rich, earthy tobacco mingled with the warm, inviting aroma of the simmering stews and the sizzling burgers from the kitchen. With the bustling crowd looking to enter, everyone knew where the party was today. Upon entry, pushing past the weathered door of the bar, a wave of warmth and laughter would wash over. The dimly lit room was sort of a sanctuary, being a place for rest and a place to for one to fill their belly. The low of hum of conversation, with occasional burst of raucous laughter, was an involving feeling. It was comforting, an intoxicating mix, a sympathy for the senses. In the corner there was a band of musician that played ambient music that harmonized with the amber hues of the tavern.​

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[Fox]

The painting was in the process of being created, forming a colorful image as Ichijo approached the door. The mixed scent of the bar flooded his senses as he opened the door. The Sharingan appeared to be fading, though the three-tomoe design remained, matching the color of his natural eye, a sign that he was capable of putting the dojutsu in a passive state. The laughter and warmth were impossible for him to ignore at a time like this, especially since the continent was under a worldwide attack by their own shadows. Perhaps it was different for those who led different lifestyles than his, facing each day as if it were their last.

"Mm..." He approached the bartender, extending his index and middle fingers while keeping the rest of his hand clasped into a fist. "Two of your finest," he said. After the bartender nodded and prepared a drink or two, he sat down in a chair, resting his arms against the bar, and held his cup, taking a sip as he continued to scan the environment. His hand slid a couple of coins onto the bar, though it was clear it was a bit extra — perhaps it was a bribe for the bartender. "Have you heard about the guy who goes by Joto?" He paused, his voice barely audible over the cacophony of drunks drowning their days away and boasting about their greatest hunts. "I'm hoping to commission him." His words could potentially reach Joto himself, for whatever it might be. Who knows? In his long life of wisdom, if someone was impressive enough to be mentioned in a line of business by another person who had no reason to be in that line of business, he must have been rather well-connected, at least among those who are in the same line of business as him.

 

[Davon]

The Dragon FlyBar was filled with the rich scent of tobacco, simmering stews, and sizzling burgers. A place like this, in a geographical intersection between districts, must have been a hotspot for travelers, which likely invited all kinds of tradesmen, shinobi, businessmen, and more. The crowd was bustling with noise; the drunks were laughing, the women were rejecting, and the fools were paying. The place was for a party, but it was also a place of food and rest. However, the Uchiha also suspected it could be used for other means as well. The Dragon FlyBar was something the Uchiha could not forget. He kept vigilant of his surroundings, as he was sure there were others like himself in the vicinity. He had allowed his sensei to do the talking; all he did was pick up his drink and present it to the root of his lips. "A man of the coin, eh? One day you'll have to teach me how to be as rich. How does that sound?" If anyone knew anything it would certainly be the regulars, employees and owner of the residence. As it happened, Ichijo had already began the extraction of information.

 

[Mugen]

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The bartender smiled as the hooded man brought out some coins and slid it towards him. That was until he asked that dreadful question. That name, the Uchiha would be able to notice that just as that name was said the man became pale as if he had seen a ghost. His eyes wandered off to the side as he aimed to avoid the question altogether, but he knew he couldn't. "Oh ahh, uhm" he cleared his throat as if it had dried up from walking across a desert. He hadn't even taken the coins. "I-" It was not long before a man off to the side, nearly drunk shouted out towards them "Jōtō eh?!" He blurted out as the smell of alcohol tinged his breath. The man himself was masked in similar fashion to the men before him. "Yeah, I know where the fuck face is. I can take ya to him if ya want, but-" he chuckled, "It'll cost ya!" By now the bartender had zoomed away and avoided the entire conversation leaving behind the coins. Even the one's surrounding them who had heard the name had vanished. Clearly, this mysterious man was their only chance.​

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[Fox]

The flustered bartender had caught Ichijo's attention, though his face hadn't changed much, appearing as if he were simply being monotone, not giving any hint of emotion or feelings. Not many could decipher the Uchiha based on his expression alone, which made him dangerous as an opponent; you could never know what he was thinking at that moment. The bartender seemed to struggle to answer Ichijo's question, torn between fear and the allure of money. Money had a way of convincing people, even if they had their fears and reservations. However, their conversation was interrupted by a nearby drunk, someone who appeared to be rather fearless, at least for the moment. He settled in to hear him out. People began leaving the bar, almost as if they were fleeing a plague he had mentioned.

​

"To think mentioning this man would have an impact on this bar..." He whispered, discreetly handing the drunk a small bag that contained a portion of the untold riches he possessed from his long life. It was said that he could live a leisurely life off that small bag if he wished to retire, although it was clear that it was just pocket change to the Uchiha. His history was shrouded in secrets and tales, with only guesses about the extent of his riches. "Do we have a bargain?"​

​

 

[Mugen]

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"HEH!" The man smirked to himself as he took the bag of coins from the cloaked man. While it was within his hands he tossed the bag up and caught it a few times, almost as if he was weighing it. "Hmmmm.." he hummed to himself in thought, "Feels about 200,000,000 in coins. This is - excellent! I can tell you mean business! Don't worry! I'll take you to Jōtō right away" The man opened the bag to check one times as he took out and slid a few coins to the bartender that had returned just in time. One thing this man was never wrong about was money. He knew the feeling of it, he knew the weight of it, the smell, and even the taste. It was as if he was one with it, but the coin was not one with him. Plagued by a heavy debt, this would be extremely beneficial for him. He slid the coins away in his cloth as he then took off his cloak, feeling his beautiful black hair. His hand now returning back outside from the cloak without the bag of coins, almost as if they had vanished into the abyss, and his hand went back on his drink. "Now that you've paid the consultation fee, I'm Jōtō! What can I help ya with?!"

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