Mist District

[STORY]

ARC CONTINUES.
INVADING FORCE FROM THE SHADOWS - What's going on!?

The world of shinobi was thrown into turmoil as shadows emerged from the darkness, launching relentless attacks on shinobi across various villages. These shadow assailants possessed an eerie and unknown power, leaving the shinobi community bewildered and on high alert. As the Mizukage and the skilled Mist shinobi celebrated their hard-fought victory against the shadow soldiers, their triumph was short-lived.

Reports of encounters with the shadow attackers began pouring in from different corners of the shinobi world. Shinobi from different villages exchanged information and pooled their resources to understand and combat this enigmatic threat, but all stories came to have no resolution on how to defeat the enemies.

In a devastating turn of events, the shadows swiftly reemerged, taking on a new form that defied comprehension. Instead of physical humanoid figures, they transformed into flat, 2-dimensional shapes, intertwining their chakra with the shadows cast by each person present.

This unexpected metamorphosis granted the shadow assailants complete control over the minds and bodies of their targets. With this newfound power, they sought to manipulate and dominate the very essence of their adversaries.

The momentary relief that filled the air turned into a tense battle for control as the shinobi realized the dire situation they were facing. The shadows' ability to manipulate thoughts and actions posed an unprecedented challenge.

As the shadows continued their relentless onslaught, the dire situation escalated further. A population of 30,000 people worldwide became the target of the shadows' relentless tactics, plunging the world into a state of fear and uncertainty.

The first wave of attacks struck with precision, targeting 2,000 individuals across the globe. Shockingly effective, the shadows managed to capture and transport 1,800 of their victims into the shadow world. With each successful abduction, the number of people remaining on Earth dwindled to 28,200.

However, the shadows were far from finished. The second wave of attacks brought a new and insidious method of infiltration. In this wave, approximately 13,000 people, including both shinobi and ordinary individuals, fell victim to the shadow's malevolent control.

The situation grew increasingly desperate as the shadows tightened their grip on the possessed. The only known way to sever the shadow's influence was to eliminate those who had been overtaken, but the method or means to accomplish this remained shrouded in uncertainty. The ethical implications of taking lives, even to save others, weighed heavily on the hearts and minds of the remaining unpossessed individuals.

The world was thrust into a struggle for survival as the shadows' numbers continued to swell, and the captured individuals became tools of the enemy. Shinobi and ordinary people alike faced the grim reality that the lives of the possessed were seemingly forfeit if they were to have any hope of breaking free from the shadow's control.

 

[Jeriah]

Isamu meticulously observed the shadows as they emerged, studying their patterns and movements. However, despite his incredible sensory abilities, he was caught off guard by the sudden onslaught of the second wave of attacks. Unlike his master, who possessed the ability to foresee such events, Isamu had not developed the same level of foresight. As the shadows enveloped the surroundings, the behaviors of those around Isamu began to change drastically. People who were once allies now appeared to be under the control of the shadows, their intentions turning hostile. Isamu faced former comrades who seemingly attempted to attack him, a situation he had not anticipated. Although taken aback by the unexpected events, Isamu's extensive training and combat experience kicked in. He swiftly adapted to the situation, relying on his honed instincts and quick reflexes to defend himself against the shadow-controlled adversaries. With his incredible sensory abilities, he sought to discern the true intentions behind their actions and formulate a strategy to counter the impending threat.

As Isamu's mind raced with thoughts of the potential harm he could inflict through his jutsu, he made a split-second decision to retreat. Understanding the gravity of the situation, he realized that his actions could have fatal consequences for those under the control of the shadows. Instead, he chose a more cautious approach. Activating his Ketsuryugan, the unique dojutsu exclusive to his bloodline, Isamu's eyes shifted, revealing their crimson hue. With this heightened visual ability, his dojutsu delved into the intricacies of the blood flowing within the bodies of his turned allies. The Ketsuryugan allowed him to study the blood's composition, granting him insight into the next series of moves his adversaries were likely to execute. Keeping his distance, Isamu relied on his Ketsuryugan's analysis to predict the actions of the controlled individuals. By observing the subtle changes in their blood flow, he could anticipate their strategies and adjust his own movements accordingly. This strategic advantage allowed him to evade physical contact, avoiding direct confrontation and minimizing the risk of causing harm to those who were being manipulated by the shadows.

Drawing upon his expertise as a master illusionist, Isamu carefully weaved his chakra to create a web of deceptive illusions. His keen understanding of the human mind allowed him to exploit the vulnerabilities of his adversaries, trapping them in a world of illusions that would more than likely knock them unconscious. As Isamu swiftly weaved hand seals, his chakra surged through the surrounding bodies of water, harnessing their elemental power. The bodies of water responded to his command, converging from all directions, including underground, as streams of water burst forth through the rocky terrain. In a display of advanced water manipulation, two jutsu were simultaneously summoned. The first manifestation took the form of a water clone, a perfect replica of Isamu formed entirely from the flowing water. The clone stood poised, ready to execute its assigned task. The second jutsu, however, was truly awe-inspiring. The gathered water transformed into a colossal dome, its sheer size capable of ensnaring a multitude of opponents within its aqueous confines. This water sphere prison served as a formidable barrier, trapping its captives and cutting them off from the outside world. Maintaining control over his jutsu, Isamu's water clone extended its arm into the water prison, ensuring that those trapped within remained confined. The clone's presence served as a constant reminder of their imprisonment, and its vigilant grip ensured that escape was an elusive endeavor.

"Great Water Prison Technique"

Isamu yelled after ensnaring hundreds of his targets into the large oceanic three-dimensional dome. The water sphere prison exerted relentless pressure on its captives, limiting their movements and depriving them of the freedom to act. Isamu's intent was not to harm but to subdue, using his jutsu to restrain and incapacitate until his opponents succumbed to unconsciousness.

With a keen awareness of the water droplets suspended in the air, Isamu seized upon their presence as a unique opportunity for mass communication. Harnessing his chakra and the elemental nature of water, he infused the droplets with his message, transforming them into carriers of vital information. The coded message, known only to those uncorrupted by the shadows, was a directive to follow the established protocol of the Allied Shinobi Forces. Recognizing the importance of unity and coordination, Isamu's coded message served as an urgent call to retreat to the designated safe haven—the Grass District.

Location: The Mist District ---> The Grass District




​

 

[Davon]

Yumaro traveled with his heart heavy with grief and anger. The remnants of the recent battle lay scattered around amongst his thoughts, a stark reminder of the lives lost and the innocent souls taken away throughout the world. His failure to protect them gnawed at his very core, fueling a deep-seated rage within him. The anger was not an outburst of blind fury, but a focused determination that burned in his eyes. Yumaro's resolute spirit grew stronger, fortified by the weight of his responsibility and the vow he made to himself to bring justice to those responsible. With each step he took, his resolve grew, his fury transforming into a fervent determination to eradicate the darkness that had invaded his world.

He would not have to wait long... before the swift return...

As the shadows that had confiscated the people returned, they emerged as two-dimensional black forms, casting an eerie presence over the desolate landscape. Yumaro watched with keen eyes, his gaze locked on their uncertain movements. The once-vibrant village was now a haunting canvas for these ethereal beings. The shadows slithered across the ground, their movements devoid of the fluidity and grace of living creatures. Yumaro observed their return with a mix of curiosity and wariness, his instincts sharpened by his anger and determination. Yumaro studied their uncertain movements, trying to discern any pattern other than their consumption of humanity.

Yumaro stood at the crossroads of a moral dilemma, his heart heavy with the weight of his options. The shadows had consumed and took control of citizens and shinobi, their intentions clear: to increase their count and perpetuate their dark influence. It was an angering sight, witnessing the transformation of innocent lives into vessels of malevolence. Yumaro's anger burned within him, a righteous flame urging to take action. But grappling with the choice before him, Yumaro felt a profound sense of conflict. Should he end the lives of those who had fallen victim to the shadows' influence, sacrificing them to save the uncorrupted? The very thought weighed heavily on his conscience because of his sense of duty. Yumaro's grip tightened. He understood that in order to protect the innocent, he might have to make the unbearable choice of taking the lives of those who were already lost to the shadows' influence. It was a sacrifice that tore at his soul, but one he deemed necessary if he could not deter the actions of some through restrictive and trap methods.

In the face of the shadows' attempts to increase their count by capturing and controlling innocent individuals, Yumaro called upon his formidable bone-manipulating capabilities to rescue those in trouble. With swift, fluid motion, Yumaro's bones emerged from his body, extending and transforming into intricate and versatile structures. Each bone served a purpose, honed with precision and agility. Some bones elongated to form lattices or bars, to transport individuals out of harms way. He wove a complex network of bone restraints, meticulously forming interlocking barriers that encased each encapsulated individual. The bones wrapped around their bodies, intertwining and solidifying with an unyielding strength, rendering the victims effectively immobile. With the bones leaving no room for the shadow to escape, he had believe he had effectively captured some shadows. Yumaro's bone restraints were not mere shackles; they were an expression of his determination to break the shadows' hold and liberate those who had fallen under their control. He worked swiftly but with great care, ensuring that the restraints were secure and unyielding, leaving no room for the shadows to corrupt or escape their confinement.

With each captive encapsulated and restrained, Yumaro's resolve intensified. He moved from one victim to another, his bone structures adapting and morphing according to the specific needs of each situation. The shadows' attempts to increase their count were met with a formidable defense, as Yumaro's bone manipulations grew more refined and strategic with every encounter. With every able bodied citizen and shinobi nearby, he ordered them to assist each other by keeping each other safe and away from the shadows. After receiving the message from Isamu, the populace began retreating to the Grass District.

As Yumaro confronted the grim reality that his bone manipulation alone couldn't directly free the encapsulated victims, his mind raced with thoughts and theories. A different approach was required to break the hold of the shadows and release those trapped within their grasp. Yumaro began contemplating the involvement of other abilities and allies. Recognizing that collaboration would be crucial in this battle against the shadows. Yumaro took a decisive step, propelling himself into a blinding motion as he raced towards the Grass District.

He moved with a fluidity that seemingly defied the laws of motion, as if he were gliding effortlessly through the air. His agility and grace were unparalleled as he weaved through the landscape, effortlessly evading obstacles and dangers in his path. Yumaro's body seemed to blend with the environment, becoming one with the wind itself. Every twist and turn showcased the intense training and mastery he had achieved over his abilities. His words were clear and concise, delivered with urgency yet tempered with reassurance. Yumaro's speed and agility were not solely physical; they extended to his mental acuity as well. He processed information rapidly, analyzing the environment and the needs of the villagers in real time. The villagers felt a glimmer of hope in his presence, knowing that they had a true protector amidst the chaos. He utilized his bone manipulation abilities to create protective barriers, shielding the villagers from harm. His bone structures manifested with incredible speed, intertwining with precision and strength to form shields and shelters. As he raced through the Grass District, Yumaro's actions became a symphony of movement and purpose. Each step, each bone manipulated, and each word spoken served a greater cause. In the midst of chaos, he remained a beacon of strength, embodying the hope that existed even in the face of darkness.
Location: Mist District - > Grass District

​

 

[Khandov]

As Kazuo was out trying to discern the woman he was trying to save, her eye suddenly turned dark... shadowy. Without thinking, he directed a powerful command of Mind Release straight into her brain, compelling her to lose consciousness. "RESTRAIN HER!" - he grunted as her body shook as if a malignant demon tried to retain control. Never before had he felt so helpless as he realized the shadows were beyond anyone's control or comprehension... yet. Before he knew it, he felt a disturbance in the Mind Release, as if thousands of voices suddenly screamed, went silent, and were replaced by hostile intent. He'd leave the hospital... too bad he had to fight through at least two possessed to get out.
He witnessed pandemonium. Friends and Shinobi turned against each other: Some possessed simply limping about in groups, others fighting the living. He had never even thought of a scenario like this: Such spontaneous possession. He despaired, almost, but then he realized.
There was no preparing this in advance. Absolved by that fact, he thought for a minute: The shadows are chakra beings. Yin Release.... what if he can incapacitate them by embedding the usual Mind Release that commands the brain to shut down unconscious, in Yin release that can seep into the possessor? He quickly summoned the necessary chakra energies and smashed the resulting bolt into the first better possessed: a civilian male. Worst case scenario, he'd get up once the shadows could wake his brain. Best case, the bolt targeting the consciousness of someone, would also kill the connection or consciousness of the shadowy being possessing it. He weighed his options. He wanted to fight on, turn Mist District into a stronghold where he could direct efforts against it and capture the invaders... but Allied Shinobi Forces protocol was known to him, and it said to retreat for Grass District. But even now, his people, they needed his help. Someone's protection, one that their leader should provide.

Indeed, soon he saw Shinobi who wasn't possessed, making their way in Grass District's general direction. He heard Sensei's voice. He knew what to do, but not yet what to leave behind.

First, he drew blood, and so his Eel was summoned. Mounting it, he thought up a solution. He could not blast each possessed individually; there'd be no point, too many, and his Shinobi had already followed the protocol to retreat to Grass District. Wait... He ascended, his eel taking him high into the sky, and the entire city was clear. He pulsed with Mind Release, and everyone who possessed one became a dot of ill intent. Now to implement a solution at a scale of a few hundred. "Any civilian you meet underway, ensure they're staying together, and their ground emits illusory light!" - he commanded telepathically to his people. The shadows responded to illusory light in some way. If they commit to any group, the charms like this might be overcome, but for anything else, it can mean the difference between capture and escape.

A huge pillar of water rose from the sea, lifted by Kazuo's brute Water Release force. Imbued with minuscule amounts of Yin Release, it would spread into smaller streams, one for each target. His mind worked overdrive plotting pathways for targets hidden inside or behind buildings. He then imbued Lightning Release inside each stream... and a Mind Release stunning command to back their power up.

Nothing lethal... but when it comes to peacemaking on the right scale... this had to do. The streams released, flowing quickly and seamlessly toward their targets. One by one, the dots of ill intent faded... a clear sign that everything was working and was non-lethal. But he was not done, for who could say the shadows weren't?

The largest concentrations of civilians found themselves encased between watery walls filled with enough lightning release to stun outright. No one could pass who did not want to pass out. Even more wondrous was that the ground they walked on was sprayed with illusory light: Their emperor-illusionist sprayed them as he rode his eel like a Chinese dragon. Perhaps any incursion of the shadows from beneath them would be warded with this light.

With this, his mind felt sufficiently at ease for his eel to smile again, tortured by the anxiety of his and others, which echoed in his mind. They rode the lightning as ever, straight to Grass District.

Location: Mist District - > Grass District

His thoughts were for those tortured by the shadows and his means to stop them, and to Mizuki, who soon found herself sitting on his Eel, riding alongside him. Her other companions would be under the good care of his mightiest Jonin as they'd direct evacuation of the palace and the rest.​

 

[Mellow]

---

With Mellows resilience and quick thinking, their escape would undoubtably be successful, though he did give a look of disappointment towards his brother as he laughed about the conversation he overheard while protecting one of his precious comrades. As his grip on Soma's legs tightened to secure her in order to keep her from falling if she let go of his shoulders for her own attack. Though her response and idea to everything made him immediately return to his thought process for war before giving her an actual response.

Mellow: No, that wouldn't be the best move. If we barricade ourselves inside the castle, and these things are popping up like shadows out of nowhere then we'll just be making ourselves sitting ducks. There's no way we'll be able to escape them then and we'll swallowed up just like the others who were caught by them. My top priority is to get you away from this crap and keep you safe, i'm nost risking those you being taken away from me.

With that, Mellow had pretty much just exposed his feelings for the Kunoichi unintentionally and without even realizing he said it. As such, he eventually locked on to the chakra signature of his sensei for only a split second which was more than enough time to determine the direction to head towards. With that, Mellow used his wind release nature to boost his overall speed in the direction the chakra signature was coming from. As he closed in on the forested area, there were a few of the shadowy creatures moving around the tree lines as one headed towards his direction. Mellow wanted to avoid a close up battle since he didn't want to risk his brother or the girls being taken, and as such he generated a powerful gust of wind chakra from a single swipe of his hand to blast the shadowy figures right back down towards the ground as he remained surfing the skies as he spotted Yumaro down below racing through the environment along with a few other spread throughout the area. This sight allowed Mellow to process the fact he was headed in the right direction as he followed behind the older shinobi at a high enough altitude to stay out of reach from the shadows all while acting as a scout should Yumaro or any of the others need any backup as they eventually entered and traveled through the grass district.

---

Location: Mist District --> Grass District​

 

[Reigetsu]

---

Sōma saw mayhem happening in the city, all the lives she crossed or watched from atop the palace were gone, her favorite maid and butler, Aiguo and Ping, gone or taken by the shadows that plague her nation of birth although her father has told bit and pieces of Old Kiri but never shed any light on it's history except the seven swordsmen were at the height of their strength with each member wielding all the swords and utilize their skills that can annihilate a nation, the reason why she desires to become a strong, to take up the mantle of Swordsman of the Hidden Mist.

While on Mellow's back, the youngest chinoike began weaving hand seals but was interrupted by her sister suggesting they barricade the palace which in her own opinion is stupid but Mellow voiced his opinion quite clearly, his feelings and top priority to get them to safety made her blush heavily, seeing this young man, a strong boy she knew and developed a slight crush on "M-Mellow?!" she says out of shock but looks up and see the shadow behind the treeline "Contact!" she yells to the others then forms the tiger seal required, molding chakra in her body "Fire Style: Flaming Hail!" twenty flaming arrows conjured above them and hails down on the shadows, with the aid of Mellow's attack magnifying her's has made them twice as strong, obliterating the enemy and forcing the shadows to retreat back into the forest. Xuán and Nashiro watched as the two duos force the enemy in the forest back "Damn, they make a good duo" the Wendigo twin says with an impressed smile then flips over a shadows overstretched hand while Nashiro cast a current of electricity which fried it and cause it to fall apart. As soon Mellow took off for the air, Xuán gathered the chakra in his legs and takes off to the air, flying through the air with Nashiro holding him tightly which gave the Wendigo twin more confidence "Hopefully our clan made it to Grass District" he says but feared him and mellow might the only ones from their clan to survive this attack, no one knows how far this threat can reach but many would believe it's global.​

---

At the headquarters of Grass District, many people from other districts have fled to Grass with the Wind Emperor, and many of her own people "Report" bark the empress of suna which her own sensory unit turn around after two hours of sensory relay to each other "We are getting thousands of people fleeing Kiri and Kumo while other nations like Fire and Earth are still fleeing towards grass!" spoke the first female sensor-nin before resuming her duties “Whatever is happening, we must prevail! Is Shukaku's Sealing pot secured?" she ask her daughter who was drinking some wine from her home country, looks to her mother and taps the pot sitting right next to her "what's the play mother?" she asks, curious of what the wind emperor has in mind “There isn't a plan, our priority is to make sure civilians and shinobi alike arrive safely which is why I sent thirty of our best to keep the enemy shadows at bay…we can't afford to lose our only Tailed Beast, they are the relic of our past, they must be kept protected at all cost!" the other suna roars behind their leader, ready to fight and die in the name of their long-rooted ancestry that has dated back all the way to ancient suna, the freehold of their glorious empire that is long gone thanks to the monsters that wreaked havoc upon their predecessors, forcing them to flee and make a fresh start on new land but now, they are being tested again to see if humanity is worthy of seeing another day or become extinct…​

---

Location: Mist District --> Grass District​

 

[STORY]

ARC CONTINUES.
INVADING FORCE FROM THE SHADOWS - What's going on!?

As grief permeated the atmosphere, a sinister presence loomed. Yumaro of the Kaguya clan unleashed skeletal appendages, that emerged from the ground. These bony constructs swiftly ensnared the citizens who had fallen under the influence of the shadows' will. However, the jutsu devised by Yumaro temporarily delayed the possessed individuals' actions by a few precious seconds. With their previous hosts incapacitated, the shadows relinquished their hold and sought new vessels to inhabit. Their insidious nature drove them to search for susceptible individuals, seeking to propagate their influence and expand their dark grip over the populace.

The situation grew more dire as the shadows sought to corrupt and possess anew, persisting in their relentless pursuit of power. The citizens, trapped in a precarious state between freedom and subjugation, faced the constant threat of becoming vessels for the shadows' sinister intent.

In the face of this overwhelming darkness, the uncorrupted shinobi and those unaffected by the shadows' influence found themselves tasked with a formidable challenge. They would devise countermeasures, resist the allure of the shadows, and find a way to break their hold on the possessed citizens before the shadows could secure new hosts, simply by killing the ones they named comrades. The battle against the shadows became a race against time, as the uncorrupted shinobi fought to free their comrades and safeguard the innocent from the clutches of this evil force by murdering them. Their resilience and determination worked as the shadow's life force had ended along with their host.

Realizing the imminent threat, Mellow and Soma, empowered by their training and resolve, unleashed scorching flames that blazed with an intensity capable of obliterating the shadows from the bodies of their human hosts. However, such powerful flames came at a cost. The victims, now freed from the shadows, suffered from severe third-degree burns, bearing the physical consequences of the intense heat unleashed upon them.

In the aftermath of this ordeal, a profound question lingered in the minds of those involved. The moral implications of the shinobi way were brought into sharp focus. Were the sacrifice of innocent lives and collateral damage justified in the pursuit of defeating such malevolent forces? It was a dilemma that forced introspection and contemplation upon the shinobi, challenging their beliefs and calling into question the inherent nature of their path.

In the face of this moral quandary, the shinobi community would need to reflect, reassess their methods, and seek ways to minimize harm while still protecting the innocent. It would be a test of their resolve and their ability to adapt, as they strived to find a delicate balance between fulfilling their duty as defenders and preserving the lives and well-being of those they swore to protect.

As the shadows proved immune to genjutsu, much like the Aburame's Kikaichū beetles, a different approach was required to break their hold. The Mizukage, utilizing their immense skill, created a brilliant illumination that pierced through the darkness. This radiant light acted as a catalyst, freeing both the shinobi and the citizens from the insidious control of the shadows.

However, the shadows, feeling their grip on their victims slipping away, resorted to a desperate measure. They merged together, forming a colossal entity that mirrored the size of a tailed beast. This formidable being was a manifestation of their combined power, a last-ditch effort to regain control and continue their reign of darkness.

New Report

As dedicated news reporters took to the skies, their mission was to provide real-time coverage of the unfolding events across the globe. Among the chaotic scenes captured, one particular moment stood out—the collaborative attack against the young pupil and daughter of Isamu.

Amidst the chaos and destruction, the reporters witnessed the immense power and devastation unleashed by the shinobi. The footage focused on the dramatic clash, showcasing the intense battle between Isamu's daughter and her fellow shinobi. The reporter, overwhelmed by the violence and its impact on innocent lives, posed a poignant question to the viewers: "Shinobi are killing innocent people. What is going on?"

This question reverberated through the airwaves, stirring a collective sense of confusion, concern, and outrage among the global audience. The footage showed the children, caught in the crossfire, desperately trying to escape the relentless onslaught. It captured the stark contrast between the ideals of protection and the unintended consequences of their actions.

The reporter's query echoed the sentiments of many who watched the events unfold. It raised important ethical considerations and challenged the traditional perception of shinobi as defenders of peace and justice. The conflicting images of destruction and the young lives affected prompted a critical examination of the underlying motivations and consequences of their actions.

In the wake of this public scrutiny, the shinobi community would need to confront these issues head-on, reevaluate their methods, and find ways to minimize the loss of innocent lives. The responsibility to maintain the delicate balance between protection and collateral damage would become even more paramount, as the world watched and demanded answers.

 

[Mellow]

While Mellow felt proud of himself for protecting Soma and getting the other 2 tagging along with the rest of the group safely, he knew that his actions came at a price for those who may have been in the blast range of his attack combined with Soma's. Even so, he felt no remorse and had no regrets for his actions as it was all done in the sake of protecting his family and friends from those who wish to hurt them. He had assumed that his sensei would be proud of him but once Mellow heard the way Isamu spoke about himself and mentioning his failures with his teachings, a slight anger entered the young shinobi. His sensei didn't fail anyone, he taught them to protect their own against their enemies and become strong shinobi which is exactly what happened. People may have been killed by accident but it was their own fault for spectating the situation instead of trying to get away. Their deaths were simply because of their own stupidity and curiosity that happened to end in misfortune. However, he kept his thoughts to himself in case his words were to come off disrespectful to the people of the grass district after allowing them to come into their lands. After listening more carefully to the situation, things must have been more serious than he thought, especially since Mellow was paired with both Master Isamu and Lord Mizukage; On top of which he was separated from Soma.

Moving on to what the rest of the group had to say just before he was addressed by the new Mizukage himself. Mellow already figured this was going to come up at some point once his sensei began apologizing, he just didn't think it was going to be immediately addressed. Though, at least it wasn't a full scolding at that moment, he took his words as more of a warning than anything once the Mizukage brought up knowing where he's from and the last thing he wanted was to be sent back and be separated from Soma. As such, Mellow remained silent but the look on his face said a thousand words. He hated the fact that he and his sensei were taking the blame for people who chose to die and it saddened him that this may have been a strike for him before he's banned from the village. Once the Mizukage was done addressing him, Mellow simply nodded his head and waited for him to finish speaking on the matter. After which, the young shinobi turned around and began walking back in the direction he came from until both Isamu and Lord Mizukage were ready to head off for their mission.

Mellow: You haven't failed anything Sensei, and I understand Lord Mizukage.

 

[Jeriah]

Isamu's keen perception allowed him to sense the turmoil within his student, Mellow. The young shinobi grappled with the complexity of distinguishing between enemies and allies under the enemy's control, which required different approaches and levels of jutsu. As Isamu looked down at Mellow, his expression remained stern and unyielding, a countenance that had been described by many as the "face of death."

With unwavering authority, Isamu addressed his pupil, his voice carrying weight and wisdom. "Even monsters have a conscience," he stated, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the humanity even in those consumed by darkness. He urged Mellow to release his bloodlust while maintaining a level-headed approach. It was crucial to discern between those who deserved to be eliminated and those who were mere victims of the shadows' manipulation.

"Kill only those who deserve it, and torture those who show no remorse," Isamu continued, his words calculated to convey the gravity of their situation. He wanted Mellow to comprehend the balance between the necessity of action and the preservation of humanity, even in the face of malevolence. As he allowed the weight of his words to settle, Isamu emphasized the importance of focusing their anger towards the true adversary—the one in charge of this shadowy menace. The desire for vengeance should be directed at the source of their suffering, not at innocent people who had fallen victim to the shadows' control.

Before Mellow could respond, Isamu's chakra surged, emanating a malicious and overwhelming aura. The purple hue of his chakra denoted its intensity, and the very ground beneath him cracked under the pressure. The atmosphere around Isamu grew menacing as he warned Mellow to prepare himself."Get ready, Mellow!" Isamu growled, his voice now even deeper and more menacing than before. His transformation into this powerful state was a clear indication of the seriousness of their predicament and the urgency to confront the shadows' leader.

 

[Khandov]

"As you understand, these were victims of the shadows. We must save them if we can help it. And you can help it..."
He stopped. He wanted to add to Sensei's words and reinforce them with his authority. He looked at Mellow and read him like a book: How much was he like him at his age! The past, the harsh environment: Though he was of urban and Mellow's was of natural place, they weren't all dissimilar. These were places where champions of tomorrow were raised. He's much more potent than Kazuo was at his age, and with the proper guidance, he'll have no less potential than Kazuo was.

Ever ready, he could sense the hostile intent, but at first, he presumed multiple hostiles gave it. Once he realized what they were dealing with, his jaws dropped. So many plans, schemes, interrogations, and investigations are coursing through his mind. And what, upon closer inspection, a leader or at least a general of the shadowy beings was dead ahead. They sought such a thing out, and it simply walked into them.

Oh. Multiple hostiles were emitting this intent after all. They were surrounded by pure shadows, enough that he could pick no cries for help by the possessed.

And now the team was surrounded by shadows as well. They were right where the relatively distant leader wanted them.

If only he knew he was trapping three of the most dangerous shinobi among their peers.

A small needle left Kazuo's pocket and traveled straight to his left arm vein. Blood sprung up like a fountain for a moment. Laced with chakra, it was more than enough to summon Kazuo's eel. The beast flew down to stand beside its master. Now the four heroes could fight in place and not risk being surrounded: Or have the eel cover their flanks as they threw themselves at the enemy.

One eye of Kazuo was black, the other white, as he brewed Yin and Yang releases to use the enemy's nature against it. He was ready, his sword overloaded with the Lightning release, laced with bright chakra to further disrupt the shadows. His aura grew brighter as if he encased himself in pure light. He was ready.
"Same plan as we discussed, Sensei?" - he asked. "Or we use the eel to penetrate their formations and go straight for the leader. We'd need a distraction for the other shadows, however" - his telepathy was working overtime to give two streams of information - one for Isamu, quick and efficient, and one for Mellow, slow and tailored for someone unused to be on receiving end of Mind Release telepathy.