Michibo was chilling just outside the village. Foot dangling from the branch he was dangling on as he rolled the sucker in his mouth with his tongue. Cherry flavored. A comic book was pressed up by his other knee with his other foot planted firmly on the tree branch. His back leaning against the tree itself. He didn't much care for this day or the task he was supposed to be doing. In a way he was doing it buuut not really. Michibo was supposed to be watching those coming and going for anything out of place. Just observing and reporting. Honestly though who cared? If anyone were stupid enough to try anything in Kiri they would die quickly before anything good came of it. Not that it wouldn't be exciting. At least then something would. His silver gaze would shift from his comic book to the road briefly. It was mid morning now and he was already bored with this whole ordeal. The mist had peeled back enough that he could see some distance now. At least the tree cover over him seemed to protect him entirely from the light drizzle of the days weather. He didn't care to be wet and cold as well as bored.

Michibo though didn't look like your average shinobi. He was wearing faded blue jeans over scratched up black boots. His headband having been modified into a belt with the kiri symbol as the belt buckle. For the moment he was wearing an untucked loose button up black shirt with a white overcoat with a fur hood. On his right thigh was a single weapons pouch but on his hips on either side were two bone kunai per hip. Pearl white with wrapped grips. Likely easily marking him as the famous Kaguya clan. Though he didn't live there anyway. His white hair shifted as he looked back to his comic book. Your typical brutal anti hero. Killing bad guys even though the world said not to. See, that was the only reason he stuck around this place. They liked killing their wicked. Dispensing judgment without hesitation in the field. If only they let him do the same. Buuut nooo! Genin were supposed to stay safe in their beds. Only observing until a higher rank. What bull. He would grunt before returning to his comic book. Who gave a flying fuck anyway? No one was going to doc his pay so long as he paid some sort of attention.

420 words

Kisuke had finally been cleared as both physically and mentally stable for release from the hospital after a near two week enforced stay there by the staff of said hospital upon his arrival in Kirigakure. If Kisuke was forced to stay any longer in that prison of depression and hope, injuries to both the staff and himself would have occurred. Kisuke was currently wandering through the village taking in the new location he would take as a refuge for the time being and the foreseeable future until he could gather the strength needed to fulfill his goal. Kisuke was walking head in the clouds wearing his typical black t-shirt and trousers with his grey-sleeveless hoodie up to help keep him somewhat dry from the light rain coming down upon the land. Kisuke was still waiting for his headband and paperwork to be delivered to him so no one really knew he had been given clearance to be instated as a newly minted genin of the hidden mist.

Kisuke was hoping he'd run into somebody interesting or at the very least look for something worth his time while his paperwork was being sorted out with the village leader. But alas the only fortunate thing he'd been able to find in this dreary village was a tea shop, the training grounds he figured were somewhere around outside the village just like back in his old village. Training would help put Kisuke in a better mood and help him stretch a bit after being confined to a small padded square for the better part of two weeks. Kisuke walked just outside the village looking for anything that might indicate a training ground even small clearing would make do at this point, but instead of finding a training ground Kisuke spotted a young man with silver hair and a furry coat who couldn't be much older than him sitting up in a tree with what appeared to be a magazine of some sort. Kisuke thought it was odd to be reading while raining seemed a tad bit counterproductive as it would ruin the material and he said as much. "It's little wet out here to be reading don't you think?" Kisuke said to the silver-haired enigma in the tree.

Michibo had been minding his own business for the most part when his silver eyes would shift to the ground again. At first it took him a minute to figure out what was different. Something had drawn his attention at a glance but he wasn't sure as to what. It wasn't till the kid started moving away from the road and its crowd that he figured it out. The kid had been looking right at him. Well that was certainly a shift from the casual usual. He was growing bored anyway so it was refreshing for something to change. Oooh he hoped maybe this was someone looking to take him out. A fight would lift his spirits considerably. However he couldn't note any hostile intent from the kid. Just casual walking. Aww man dag nabbit. He was really hoping to be attacked. Give him an excuse to launch into the fray biting and clawing like the old days. The streets had taught him more than the academy ever had. Hell if he fought these days like the academy wanted he might be dead by now. Though if he fought like he did in the streets at the academy he might just get suspended back then.

As the kid grew closer Michibo would notice he was younger than he thought. The kid was tall but his features suggested he wasn't close to an adult yet. Some fresh academy graduate maybe? Nope, no headband. He had never seen the kid before either and he ran mail to the academy every once in a while. Still the kid would stop under his tree and comment about reading in the rain. Michibo would blink a moment before glancing up and laughing. Barely keeping the sucker in his mouth. The drizzle threatened the kids motivation to do whatever he wanted eh? Michibo would toss the comic over his shoulder and casually hop down. Landing pretty much a couple feet in front of the kid before straightening out and grinning. A good head taller than the kid though likely this kid would keep growing. His hands would shove into his coat pockets as he rolled the sucker to one side in his mouth. His silver eyes studying the kid before he spoke after a minute.

"This ain't shit kid. Kiri doesn't ever let up so if you let a drizzle stop you from reading under cover of a tree your missing out. So that tells me you ain't used to this place much. So either your from some wealthy family or from Konoha or some shit. Cmon, am I right? Which is it?"

444 + 420 = 864

Kisuke stood in the light rain looking up after he had asked the man his question expecting something other than an outburst of laughter from the question in which the man hopped down from his perch up above in the tree cover to where Kisuke could size him up better on even footing. From what Kisuke could tell he was a whole head taller than he was forcing him to look up even with their level grounding which he found slightly annoying. The man wore some odd choice of clothing but the one thing that caught Kisuke's eye was the Kiri headband fashioned as a belt buckle on the young man which could only mean one thing, the person standing in front of him was an actual shinobi, though his rank couldn't be ascertained from his current outfit, Kisuke would make it a point to have a spar with the person sometime in the future as either a rival or friend that has yet to be seen, after all, how could you possibly hope to improve without someone to push you further? For the time being, he would test the man with words and try and lure out his personality into the open.

Though life seemed to answer Kisuke's question about his personality quite well with the loaded response and questions he gave to Kisuke. Kisuke tried to stop it but it came out anyway the same way the examiners asked him "Where are you from?", a cold look that if it could, would send daggers into the poor soul who asked the question, Kisuke tried to cover it from the person as fast as he could sense it by staring off into the trees above wondering whether or not to give him an actual answer. Kisuke knew that in the world of ninjas information was a powerful tool and that giving out personal information could be a future burden for himself and others. Kisuke finally answered with a look of boredom on his face "Well to answer your first question, rain has never bothered me I just thought it would be a hindrance to your little solo book club as everyone I've met so far is a little bit whiny on these things and judging from your tone I guess you have to agree.". "To answer your second question, I've been here as long as I can recall which is about two weeks and where I'm from? Well, you won't ever find it he made sure of that much."

Kisuke then asked while pointing at his counterparts waist "Judging from your little buckle there your a shinobi or are you someone pretending to be one?" "On a side note, what's your name, if you don't mind my asking seeing as your the only interesting thing around here so far?"

Michibo would tilt his head and listen to the now obviously bored kid. His expression suggesting heavily that he had no interest in anything Michibo had said so far. Not impressed in the slightest by his deductive reasoning. He explained that he was just used to people whining about the rain and calling him reading a comic book a solo book club. Michibo would let his eyebrows raise though at the mention of the last couple of weeks being his only memory. Well that sucked. It was hardly enough time to gain any focus on anything. Michibo had trained for some time to actually be a specialist at anything. Still he could feel himself bristling at the kids tone. Idly without thinking he would bite down and crunch through the last of his sucker. It was a waste really but oh well. He would chew it down while the kid made his speech before spitting the stem out onto the ground and littering. Obviously not giving a damn about the environment or much of anything really. That was just how people like Michibo came across. Not giving a damn about much of anything. All the same he would speak up once the other kid finished speaking and asked his name.

"Pretending huh? Some balls on this kid..."

Michibo grumbled just barely under his breath. At this distance easily made out but still. He would take a step back and with a slight tug he would free his bone kunai as he leaned back against a tree. With one finger in the ring in the base of the handle he would spin it idly with that hand while his other hand lifted a new sucker to his mouth. The wrapper tugged off easily in his pocket. He would plop the new sucker into his mouth and lean back against the tree he was sitting in a moment ago. Looking the other kid over a moment before speaking once more. Covering the answers to his questions.

"Names Michibo. Just Michibo no last name. As for pretendin, If you want to find out all you gotta do is step up kid. You learn more from a fight about someone than not. That said, you shouldn't ask a name without introducing yourself ya know? We are more than animals after all. Or at least they told me to act a little less animalistic. Eh?"

1265

With a new cycle of genin meant a new cycle of those to be trained and Xiao the ever energetic shinobi of Spider Island knew that it also meant another aspect - allies and friends. To Xiao, friendship was truly magic, a way of life that reflected Xiao's own blood, though some spiders were far more nefarious or animalistic Xiao represented the other side of spiders - Good luck, Good fortune, Wisdom, Trickery and Story telling. The little orb weaver was just that, the story weaver, always and ever looking to ensure that the story of those of Kirigakure was one based on prosperity and growth and the ever growing web of friendship! At one point Xiao often found himself wondering what friendship truly could be until it was the very mist that he so loved had shared it's magic with the little spider.

It was of course a big adventure, though admittedly to the spider quite a lot of fun indeed with the ever turning cogs of Kirigakure always proving worth the watching or endulging in especially the more stoic of shinobi. Kirigakure had a heart of true beauty and in return it's citizens continued to be faithful and strong, sharing their kindness with one another as an easy fete, that magic of friendship making it all complete. Regardless of the romanticism of Kirigakure and it's benevolent kage who Xiao still was yet to meet though in some sense feared that meeting as much as his future meeting with Sero the young half-burned faced masked shinobi had spent much of the day exploring the area searching for these new graduates just as he had moved on with the chuunin exams, it was now his turn to lead these new recruits, these new warriors in the way of the mist - or rather, his take atleast.

It made hungry work of course and Xiao had learned that the quickest way to a person's heart was of course food. Though Xiao was a vegetarian he had spent his weekly ryo amount on buying out an entire skewer store, an entire assortment of skewered meats ranging from the luxurious fighting emu to the always meaty toad and of course the duller or boring flavors of beef and tofu. Xiao had made a half-decent backpack of natural webbing to hold such food and yet the skewers continued to pierce the webbing leaving some dangling in the sticky substance formed into a shell upon the small shinobi's back. As he made his way along the outskirts searching for some sign of life. That's when he saw it. Two genin. New recruits. Talking somewhat as the spider shinobi spied from roughly 30m, perched upon a branch and staring as the two conversed unsure whether to leap in now or to simply wait for when the time was right.

Spoiler:

Kisuke watched as the man walked back to the tree he was sitting in a minute ago, hearing his grumbling Kisuke had assumed he'd finally pissed him off enough that he wanted to leave, only he didn't he had turned around began leaning on said tree and staring at Kisuke almost as if he was sizing him up. The man spit out the stem from his sucker and almost immediately replaced it with another... "He certainly does enjoy his sweets, huh?" Kisuke thought to himself. Kisuke also noticed the strange kunai being twirled around as it was most certainly not made from metal it looked more like it was made from some sort of dull stone. Kisuke definitely wanted to get a better look of the weapon in question, hopefully, he wouldn't be too far on the wrong end of it.

The man finally gave his name as Michibo, just Michibo. Kisuke could tell from his tone that his words were beginning to irritate the man, well Kisuke was managing to figure out his new debate partner had a rather short fuse though what would actually set an explosion had yet to be seen. He even went the extra mile to inform Kisuke he was rude for not giving his name first. Okay, that may have been true but it was just to test his mettle, he'll make sure to make amends sometime in the future for his current behavior. Michibo continued by issuing what seemed like a challenge to test his skill as a shinobi. Kisuke's comment on pretending did seem to ruffle his pride of feathers so it seemed the man took his title as shinobi seriously which meant he had bumped his level of respectability up a few points in Kisuke's book. "My name's Kisuke, just Kisuke. As for learning more from a fight, well, I couldn't agree more on that aspect and I would be more than happy to have a few go-arounds with you though I'm sure starting a fight outside the village might bring more trouble than necessary for both of us. If you have somewhere in mind do speak up because if not it looks like we'll see if your faking or not." Kisuke then took a step forward with a small smirk on his face.

"You could always take this to the Bloody Cemetery, after all who better to oversee a proper Hidden Mist Challenge but our ancestors?" Kaito offered, stepping from behind the tree. He'd been following Xiao for just under and hour, attempting to catch the spider-nin's attention. Kaito had just returned from a mission to kill a group of bandits near a popular resort island and wanted to share something he had uncovered with Xiao, one of his best friends and adopted little brother. Still in the typical shinobi uniform of the Hidden Mist, Kaito's only distinguishing features was the white lab coat he wore over his uniform, trace amounts of blood could easily be seen on various parts of the lap coat, as well has his signature silver hair and burgundy eyes.

The news he had for Xiao could wait, if the two other genin present wanted to duke out their differences, Kaito was all for watching it play out, and should one of them get injured, he was a medical-nin afterall. "Hey Xiao, you wanna take bets on which one wins?" Kaito asked with a smirk, a little bloodshed amongst friends was always entertaining, not that he'd seriously bet on such a sparring session. "Actually, why don't we make this more interesting, whichever of you wins, I'll give you five hundred ryo, and I'll go on a mission with you. Loser gets to go on a mission with Xiao, afterwards a rematch and we repeat till one or both of you are skilled enough to challenge a real shinobi like Xiao and me." Kaito offered with an evil grin. He hadn't offered so much as his name, not that it mattered, but these two genin showed promise and if he and Xiao could get them on an equal footing with their own squad, it would just mean more friends to potentially work with in the future, and more mission partners were always a plus.

"My name is Osoroshi, Kaito, last names are important after all." Kaito said with another grin on his face, having heard the previous exchange between the two genin beforehand. For a second there he had considered challenging both of them to a two on one sparring session, just to prove a point, hell Xiao could even join their side, it'd be a tough match but Kaito wasn't all that convinced the three of them could take him. Kaito had already sparred with Xiao multiple times, and while the spider-nin had skills, he lacked a desire to kill that was necessary to win against someone like Kaito. You had to match fire with fire as it were.

Michibo would completely miss the other genin moving up into the trees above them. Unaware of his presence entirely. In fact those silver eyes never broke from the boy in front of him. His eyes studying his conversational partner a moment before noting those words. It wasn't the wish to actually spar that had his neck hairs ripple but the repeated hinted jaunt at his pride. The kid was reaching but it was working. Michibo was an easy one to lure into anger. His days spent as a street thug meant little in the way of self restraint. On the streets it was first come first served for a beat down and if you couldn't beat them you got beat. He learned that lesson more often than not. So his knife stopped twirling as he slowly stood tall. No longer leaning against a tree. Holding the bone kunai in a reverse grip tight enough now for the leather to complain audibly. His frown now matching his eyes as he stepped forward. Ready to cut this kid who kept mocking his headband and willingness to follow through. Oh man this kid was going to learn today. You don't pick a fight with Michibo and expect a friendly spar.

However a sudden voice broke him from his thoughts a moment. He didn't really hear what the guy said at first but he stepped from behind a tree and those silver eyes shifted to him. Watching and waiting to see if this kid was just bringing in back up. It only registered what the guy said after a couple of moments through the haze that was this ones temper. The cemetery? Ha. Still his eyes shot up as he noticed the other one once he was spoken to. So he had been surrounded eh? Well that was interesting indeed. He would bristle as the one so sure of himself called himself a real shinobi as if Michibo wasn't. Well now that was just insulting. Why was everyone here so keen on calling him weak out of no where? Oh well he was going to need to prove it he supposed. He was getting excited now. His grey hair would shift and begin to turn pink as would his eyes as he grinned wildly. His free hand would snatch up his other kunai as he held it too in a reverse grip. Rolling his neck as he let his bones crack. Speaking as he pointed to each of them as he mentioned them. Shifting his kunai to a normal grip until he was done talking and then back to a reverse grip.

"Like shit we need to go anywhere. We ain't close enough to the road to catch any of them in this. This gate duty just got way more interesting. So tell you what. First, Imma cut him." He would point to Kisuke first with his left Kunai. Then his right kunai pointed at Kaito, "Then you to see if I am a 'real' shinobi or not." With that his right kunai lifted to point at Xiao, "And then you if you want a piece too. Come on, lets do it!"

1265 + 534 =1799

Spoiler:

So the more stoic of the two was named Kisuke. That was useful, or rather was useful enough for Xiao to view as valuable. It wasn't as if he was trying to assault them or bring them to their knees for whatever sort of pleasure people derived from such actions, in truth Xiao was mostly just aiming to introduce himself and bring some snacks to the new genin as he was tend to do. Xiao was, after all, the master weaver of the web of friendship. Kisuke seemed to speak with respect and utter logic, something admirable in Xiao's mind which brought a smile to the little spiders face. Another Verdandi to have as the moral compass of the group, a perfect addition to Kirigakure. The other, Michibo, Xiao was hoping to hear an utterance of but just as he waited he was greeted by a familiar in both senses of the word.

Kaito, His elder brother, the blood sage of Kirigakure who could weave an ocean of blood before one's eyes in a moment...or Xiao assumed, in all honesty the shinobi of Kirigakure soared through their abilities than he could count. Whilst he had not even perfected the basic shadow clone others were already rivals of jounin and hunters alike. Waving his hand vigorously to his elder brother Xiao shouted out "Onii-san! Hey!" he stated mirroring all those visual novels we all know far too well than we'd like. Leaping down from his branch he began to 'shadow' Kaito, following just behind him dwarfed in size by the white haired blood mage as he looked to the two "Hey guys sorry to interrupt, I was just hoping to bring you some food" Xiao stated gesturing to his backpack with a thumbs up. Kaito asked if Xiao wished to bet on the winner of a match and he felt the rhythm of his mind begin with a delightful smirk.

"Honestly? I'm loving this Kisuke guy. Reminds me of a young Verdandi, err younger Verdandi...Does she age?" Xiao pondered as he scratched his chin for a moment. As Kaito stated the position of losing Xiao could have taken offense but obviously didn't, this wasnt who he was in the slightest and he actually found it quite amusing deciding to add to it "Ha! Yeah Loser has to mission with Xiao, God that's gonna SUCK" he added with a gentle laugh as he let Kaito do most of the speaking patting his brother upon the back to 'hype' him up as it were...but unfortunately the two were met with - SWEARING?

Xiao began to waver his arms as he chuckled himself "Slow it down there Adult Swim, I like Kisuke and you? Well one of me likes you...but you wouldn't dig him."

Food?

"Not now. ANYWHODALAY, Kaito though? Kaito? Man...Even I don't mess with Kaito." Xiao stated folding his arms as he raised an eyebrow at the young genin who raised a knife to him "Honestly? Was here to offer a PIECE of yakitori, but yeah no, knives work too. His a feisty one, eh Onii-san?"

Kisuke had thrown out his bait in hopes of getting the man opposite him to name a location for their impromptu spar, however, this bait seemed to attract another creature who walked upright and wore a white lab coat over an official mist shinobi outfit, sporting some red blotches of... well that's pretty self-explanatory.  The man, whom Kisuke couldn't even notice up to this point had to be an exceptionally skilled ninja or Kisuke was so focused on Michibo he blocked out the rest of the world like an idiot or maybe a combination of both who knew for sure. The man in question mentioned something about a cemetery and moved on mentioning someone named Xiao and placing bets on which of Kisuke and Michibo would win in their fight. The first thought for Kisuke was "Who is Xiao?", but at that moment another shinobi dropped down right behind lab coat calling him onii-san. It was obvious now these two were close seeing the affectionate titles in use. This for Kisuke was now looking like a spontaneous get-together of shinobi with an odd taste in fashion it would seem. "So that makes two random shinobi... do I hear three?".

Thankfully for the time being no more showed up giving Kisuke the opportunity to assess the current situation letting him take a couple steps back and look about the current crop of ninja assembled in front of him. Lab coat saw fit to up the ante apparently with monetary value and an apparent opportunity for tutelage from either of them depending on who won. The man gave his name as Kaito Osoroshi, the man looked respectable enough tall silver hair if anything Kisuke would guess that tall and silver hair was all the rage in the Hidden mist these days if Michibo and Kaito were proof of anything. Xiao on the other hand, was quite the opposite of Kaito and Michibo, had a silver tongue it seemed like but time will only tell if he was right, he also seemed kind bringing food in an odd bag of sorts for both he and Michibo. Kisuke asked "If you got any tea in that bag, I'll gladly go on a mission with ya."

Kisuke then turned his attention back to Michibo who for some reason another his hair had changed color or rather it was beginning to change from its white gloss to a pinkish color, which was setting red flags off in Kisuke's head, "Well whatever he's doing can't be good." he thought. Michibo then turned his kunai over pointed it at all three of them issuing a challenge to all of them.

Well needless to say Kisuke's first day out of the hospital may get him back there, but for a chance to have a good spar with some interesting people well it would be completely worth it. Kisuke began to flare his chakra just the slightest to show he was prepared should anything start to happen.

Word count:

Kaito stood back with an intrigued grin on his face as the other white haired genin threatened him and Xiao made what Kaito only hoped were sarcastic comments degrading himself. It wasn't the best of ideas to pick fights with shinobi like Kaito and Xiao, both of whom were being trained by Haka Osada, meaning they were being prepped for a life as ANBU, Hunter-nin, or some other form of dark and twisted aspect of the shinobi world. With a speed it was doubtful the two genin could react to, Kaito withdrew two Kiri Senbon from the pouch in the back of his hip, one in each hand, holding them so they pointed downwards. No need to go directing weapons at people over a slight challenge like Michibo's, after all, in Kirigakure, this sort of sparring match was all in good fun, Kaito had sparred against multiple of his peers before, and would likely continue to do so for a long while yet.

It was a long few moments before Kaito responded to either Xiao or Michibo, after noticing the trepidation on Kisuke's face, the silver haired blood mage felt the need to offer a few words of inspiration. "Feel feel to go all out, I'm a medical-nin and can heal pretty much anything you guys can offer." Seemed Michibo was getting all bent out of shape and challenging all three of them to a fight, but that only peeked Kaito's interest more. "Very well, Michibo, if you can beat Kitsune, I'll accept your challenge, if you fail you'll except mine. Go on a mission with Xiao if you lose this fight, then show us how much you've bettered yourself afterwards. Don't make those types of challenges unless your willing to back them up." Kaito spoke in shortened tones, baiting the genin to argue the point as he crossed the two senbon across his chest. Based on Michibo's movements and lack of noticing Kaito's presence beforehand, Kaito was fairly certain of his ability as a shinobi. As far as fighting Kaito or Xiao, Michibo was lacking a great deal. It'd be a simple thing to dodge and evade the genin's attacks should he make a move.

For now though, Kaito began sending chakra to his feet to stabilize his footing, while he would simply evade and counter anything that Michibo might throw at him, Kaito wasn't foolish enough to risk losing his footing, no matter the opponent. "If your more interested in fighting me than Kisuke, fair enough, but know this, I don't take a challenge lightly Michibo, if your words hold any value to you then you will speak them only when necessary. Challenging me does not end just because you win or lose a fight, I expect you to come back and fight me again and again, succeed or fail, doesn't matter." Kaito was serious about this, a challenge between shinobi in the Hidden Mist was more than a simply sparring session, it formed a bond of friendship and rivalry that would last for years until one or both of the shinobi died. No matter Michibo's intentions, Kaito would continue to hound him until Michibo was a shinobi of equal skill and standing, and then Kaito would hound him further still until Michibo surpassed him entirely, that was how Kirigakure would remain the strongest Ninja village in the world.

OOC Information:

Jutsu Used - 245/250:

Items Used:

Hidden from perceptions by her technique, Haka took a moment to observe the gathering of genin. Her pair of apathetic eyes glided over the few heads that formed the collective for whatever reasons they had chosen. The Hunter was on a simple mission of her own, the arachnid queen keeping a watchful eye on those Sero considered his while maintaining the presence of the spiders as the dark father's eyes and ears. Kaito. Kyutai. Each a student of the demon lord in their own way. Each walking a different path, yet Kaito and Kyutai's fates seemed unexpectedly entwined. The spider and the human. It was one thing she had a similar understanding of sorts with Verdandi. It was another to see a similar strand of fate binding other of her kin.

"Challenging me does not end just because you win or lose a fight."

Someone had understood the Way of the Spiders. When one hunt failed, another one awaited them. Giving up was pretty much giving your life up. Weakness in body. Weakness in mind. Haka had killed those who had proven to have outgrown their use before. She'd do it again if it meant preserving growth and evolution. That said, it was strange in her eyes to hear Kaito tie in the losers with Kyutai who had equally proven to hold a practical understanding of survival. But unless the Unmei would step up to defy that, there was no reason for her to intervene. Or care, even.

Much like Kaito had searched and found his own strength within the Mind Weaving Technique, and Kyutai had found his true nature by surviving the horrors of Spider Island, so too would these freshly graduated genin sooner or later meet a similar road. A moment where their essence of being would prove strong... or be torn to nothingness. It was to be seen which road of power they'd take. One of purity, as Yoshito has chosen to abide by when he refused Sero's gift, or one of demonic darkness, as Kaito had decided upon when he decided to learn from the Osada. Would these two seek a road of stagnant resolution like old gods did, or one of ever evolving life-force as the Unmei were expected to walk? Questions which would be answered given time.

But for the time being, spiderlings were supposed to be spiderlings as they discovered the limits of their power. Tiny little rampaging forces with their mind set on growth. In this case, young genin looking to grow in power and prove their worth to the Mists.

---

435

OOC: Entering in stealth. Probably just passing through, so feel free to skip Haka in the post order.

330/350:

Michibo would grin as he switched to a reverse grip again. They seemed soft. Not civilian soft but soft all the same. Well, two of them did. Kisuke and especially Xiao. Though a part of him wanted to see what was in the bag. Snacks were always nice and it would be a nice tribute. Still he didn't care for things like someone being stronger than him. If he could still get back up it was good enough. This Kaito though at least sounded sure of himself. In a way that pissed Michibo off the most. Still the guy would hold his weapons and pose as if ready for a fight should there be one. Speaking about fighting over and over again like it might discourage someone. However it was everything Michibo wanted. To fight and fight some more. To his hearts content. Shinobi were gathering around him and he was enjoying it. Truly he was riled up now. He wanted to start. To get things moving. Suggestions of tea and medical were just side notes. He didn't intend to risk holding back against any opponent. What fun was there in fighting someone who you needed to hold back on? Silly thoughts that one had.

Still no one seemed to be betting on him. Eyes seemed to favor the enemy and he would note that. They were underestimating him. Wonderful. Oh well, the world tended to do that. Many an opponent had faced pain for doing so. His opponent for now though seemed rather on the serious side as he flared up his own chakra. Michibo would tilt his pink eyes as they widened with almost a wild malice. Oh hell yeah. It was going to go down. All this boring waiting around was over and finally someone wanted to cross hands with him. What was better than fighting someone either as strong or stronger than you? Michibo would spit out his sucker as he would smile in some sick way. Oh man he could just scream with joy now. More opponents than he had much of a chance at all of beating. It was a dream come true. The other two and the one he didn't notice yet just faded into the background for him. His eyes never breaking away from his opponent now as he shifted to fully face Kisuke. It was extremely clear that he was going to go for a direct approach now.

Without warning or any honorable notice of intent Michibo suddenly charged forward. Not asking if his opponent was ready. Not preparing a tactical advance. Just rushing straight forward for the five meters between them. He wasn't very quick really but he rushed in wildly. If he closed the distance he would try to launch forward with a flying left knee at the boys chest with his momentum behind it. He was a big boy and yet he didn't seem to heed any sort of danger for himself. Simply using one dagger to stab down at his opponents left shoulder with his right hand and the left dagger held ready to slash at the first limb that came his way.

2330

Kisuke's face of trepidation was soon replaced with one of shock as Michibo without warning launched himself forward with a look of pure madness and glee etched into his face. Michibo launched himself forward from about 5 meters away from Kisuke, aiming at Kisuke with his knee at his chest and his right kunai aimed at Kisuke's left shoulder. Kisuke took a step back caught slightly off-guard, Kisuke was still able to gather his bearings, instead focusing on Michibo's kunai as they were the immediate threats to Kisuke's well-being catching Michibo's right forearm with his left hand as well as reacting to the sudden slash towards Kisuke's left arm with a right forearm to Michibo's left arm stopping the slash mid-stroke. Kisuke still took the full brunt of his knee square to Kisuke's chest unable to stop or slow the impact of the blow Kisuke's air supply was suddenly cut short knocking him back 3 meters due to the obvious difference in size between the two genin.

Kisuke got off his back into a low kneeling crouch of sorts, now fully aware of their size differences choking on air or the lack of apparent air in Kisuke's now bruised feeling lungs, making it difficult to breathe at the moment for the young man. Kisuke would now send chakra to the soles of his feet to maintain his footing and balance should the maniacal man before him launch another unsavory attack, Kisuke leaped back another 4 meters putting the space between him and Michibo at 7 meters. Kisuke wanted to see how Michibo faired against ninjutsu so he began his assault with his Wind Release: Great Breakthrough technique and would drop into a defensive stance to ready for his opponent's response.

Techniques Used:

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Word Count:

Xiao was finding it all very amusing, he was a freshly dubbed Chuunin Exams patron and a little insane of course from said experience but he wouldn't allow such extensive dramas cloud his ever prominent sense of humor. He folded his arms as he looked to the ever temperate Michi with a grin upon his face hidden behind his spandex adorned face as Kaito spoke. "What Kaito said. We ain't here to kill ya, Just to see who you are and what you're about, y'know?" Xiao stated clasping his hands together his a laugh bouncing through his words. The words were genuine, Xiao had no desire to harm anyone else really. "We've been fresh too, we know what it's like...wait, are either of your parents insects by any chance? You should check on that. I hear uh, some folk learned to do it the hard way" Xiao stated nervously scratching neck as he stared to the duel genin who looked a little on edge to say the least.

Xiao continued to watch on with a relaxed pose, his hands in his red flak jacket as he looked on to the ever growing nervous Michi, push a person into a corner and they'd enter fight or flight - the exact thing Xiao wished to avoid the little genin doing. As Xiao gazed upon the 'sucker' of Michi's Xiao began to murmur to Kaito "Candy lover, White hair, look I found you an apprentice" the little spider jested to his elder with a smile. As this so happened the candy was spat on the ground by Michi causing Xiao to throw his hands up "That's a waste of food! What are you, a criminal?" He exclaimed holding his head in anguish. As Michi launched himself forward Xiao reacted instantaneously darting forward at a roughly higher speed than Michi's own being the rank he was though not significantly more by any shot. His effort was to pretend he was picking up the lollipop, but before he could move more than a few centremeters the young genin known as Kisuke had taken the hit much to Xiao's shock.

The little spider gave a knowing nod to Kaito, indicating the genin would most definitely need healing after the battle. "...To step in or not to step in..." Xiao murmured to himself "Onii-san..If he goes to far, y'know..." Xiao stated vaguely alluding to their ability to stop this if so needed but it was a trial of fire in a sense, one that both Xiao and Kaito themselves had had to deal with. Before his training with Haka Xiao would have very well leaped in and ensured no battle would be done but when it came to the current person he was, who had seen so much and endured so much, he knew that such actions would only breed complacency and reliance much as he had fallen into the trap of himself. Instead he opted to watch, as soon as the first inkling of going too far was seen he would of course leap into action but as of yet such a battle was not much. "20 Ryo on Kisuke." Xiao stated as the young boy unleashed his Fuuton style technique towards Michi with a grand gusto.

Eager to watch the ensuing fight, and with his blood beginning to boil in anticipation of fighting the winner himself, Kaito stood back next to Xiao while the two less experienced genin had at it. He'd already noticed Michibo's aggressive nature, something that would get him killed if he didn't learn to control and channel that aggression, but what really stood out about him was the kunai he was using. It was a simple thing for a medical-nin like Kaito to notice that the material the kunai had been made from was not metal or but in fact one, and paired with Michibo's arrogant attitude, Kaito only had one thought in mind. Kaguya. Afterall, Michibo wouldn't be the first of that clan to cross Kaito's path, and Michibo seemed just as eager as any other of his clan to come to blows with just about anyone. That being said, Kaito had yet to see the Kaguya clan's kekkei genkai in action before, and the thought of the possibility that he might see one of the legendary clans of Kirigakure in acton thrilled him, making the demonic blood inside his veins sing.

The white haired shinobi was pulled from his thoughts as he realized what Xiao had just said about parents being insects. With a swift smack to the back of the head, Kaito whispered into Xiao's ear. "Watch what you say around others otouto, or need I remind you that I learned more about the Unmei simply because you were a little too loose lipped." Given their current position, it was doubtful either of the genin would hear what Kaito had just said, but there was a presence lurking nearby, and even though Kaito hadn't noticed Haka Osada, she was far more skilled in eavesdropping then the two genin Kaito and Xiao were watching now. Still, Kaito let his hand linger on Xiao for a second, having it rest on his shoulder in a subtle sign of affection for his adopted little brother.

Kaito couldn't care less about the abandoned sucker, ants needed to eat too after all, though Xiao's observations about a potential apprentice did not fall on deaf ears. Michibo had already peeked Kaito's interest, his arrogance made Kaito want to beat his face in, but his eagerness to accept that beating if only to get a chance to fight meant Michibo wasn't nearly as arrogant as he made it seem. No, Kaito figured he used it more as a tool to get a rise out of people so he could get what he really wanted, a proper fight. Such tactics wouldn't work on Kaito, he wasn't that easy to frustrate or manipulate, but if Michibo wanted a fight he had simply to ask. Under normal circumstances, Kaito would have just accepted the challenge, but it was clear that Kisuke also needed to prove himself. Forcing Michibo to face his equal before allowing him the chance to fight his better allowed Kaito and Xiao the chance to observe both of the new bloods. Michibo was too direct for Kaito's tastes, but that could be worked with, and Kisuke was a bit too reactive, but that could be molded into a more subversive and counter focused fighting style like Kaito's own. "No, not a apprentice otouto, rivals." Kaito said with a grin as he hugged Xiao. Today was turning out to be a good day.

Of course, once again Xiao had to go and mess up yet again, attempting to run off just as the fight started. Despite the younger shinobi's attempts to make it look like he was going for the sucker, Kaito knew Xiao well enough not to be fooled. Managing to turn his hug into a grab for Xiao's collar just as he went off, Kaito stopped his little brother before he could intervene. "Relax Xiao, and remember how badly I beat you up the first time we met? Let them fight it out, stop worrying about what might happen and observe the way they fight, look for weaknesses, potential for improvement, watch every moment and choice they make and look for ways you can help them be better in the future. If they don't know when to stop, we'll step in, otherwise, who cares about a few broken bones and a little blood loss?" Kaito offered with a chuckle. In some ways, Xiao actually reminded Kaito of his mother, always worrying, trying to protect and isolate her son from the horrors of the world, and Kaito new all too well how limiting that had been. His mother, while she did love him, had only set him up for failure and suffering. If anything, this similarity between Xiao and his mother worried Kaito. Which is why Xiao's last response amused Kaito. "20 Ryo? I already told them I'd give 500 Ryo to the winner, but sure, I'll raise you a little, 50 Ryo on Michibo, and another 50 Ryo on Michibo crapping his pants when I use my blood sorcery." Katio replied with a devilish grin.

Jutsu Used - 300/305:

The two young ones would be sparring each other. Train themselves to see who was the better one, but the two elder genin would merely watch. Bet to see who would take victory over the other, and bet that they'd be scared off blood magic. Haka had seen Kaito's budding magic bloom into existence under the mind-weave. Knowing the average placated and weak-willed mind of the human race she could agree that most would be terrified to see it in action. However, were these genin to be considered on par with the average human? She had seen one of them in action, the other currently unknown. It was difficult to make a correct judgement on the matter. Even then, the clue was not that Haka desired to figure it out. By simply remaining patient she'd know it just as well. The clue was that the spider missed the joke behind the 50 ryo bet, her arachnid mind finding no humour in it while Kyutai most likely would hold a better understanding of such matters. If terror was the nature of their game, perhaps she could... up the stakes?

Within her concealment, the queen would form hand seals of a familiar jutsu to the shinobi. Unseen, unheard. Out of nothing a thick shrouding mist would engulf all of the present genin as they were caught unaware and even in mid-fight for some of them. The shroud of chakra mist that had hidden Haka's presence was instantly replaced by Kirigakure no Jutsu, the transition between the two seamless due to her skill as a special jounin. None would have spotted her brief visibility in the advantage of the moment, but they would hear a hollow echo as she threw the distorted voice of the Hunter-nin mask within the mist.




To add insult to injury, every of the four genin at the same time would find themselves opposed by a misty entity. A spindly being with long misty hair, wearing a porcelain white mask and black cloak. Skilled in combat, but not exactly impossible to defeat if they were willing to put their mind in the fight. Mist clones created by a simple genjutsu, yes, but the dog - bird hand seals hidden from sight by the Hidden Mist Technique would not allow them to spot the truth behind this little trick of hers. And that was not even the worst of the terror to come. Haka's monstrous aura left little to the imagination, the killing intent of the huntress oppressive without remorse. Combined with the mist clones' irrational tendency to split upon defeat, all of the youngsters were thrown in a dead-or-alive-like situation with as goal to overpower their still untrained minds and courage.

All the while, Haka's well-trained sight pierced the cloud's effects, her body moving to remain out of their reach until they had passed this little yet brutal test of will.

---

508
Total: 943

OOC: [x]

285/350:

Michibo had managed to lead with a blow to the kids chest but his two kunai had been blocked. He would growl with enjoyment as he felt it shove the opponent back. This right here was the point of it. Two equals fighting it out on the battlefield with no holds barred. He laughed with enjoyment not scorn for his opponent. His malice wasn't from hate but sheer joy over getting to fight again. He wanted to get hit and hit back. Even as he felt the enemy get pushed back his feet hit the ground and he was pursuing the boy. Not one to wait around and assess anything. Simply rushing in and attacking. Defense be damned he was on the full offense almost right on top of the enemy. Laughing with joy in his eyes despite the harmful intent with the bone kunai in hand. However as he drew close suddenly the opponents clothes would ripple and despite his opponent holding his ground a massive gust of wind would catch Michibo mid step and launch him backwards. This was incredible. He was being pushed back now in turn. If there was an opponent on his level so far it was proving to be this kid he just met.


The wind howled at Michibo ash e slid back before dropping down into a four legged crouch position digging his kunai into the ground until he was pushed back the entire five meters. Now a mere six meters away. He had been so close before that gust hit him and knocked him back five meters. Another second and he would have had his knives in the kid. It was good that he could force Michibo off him. A part of his brain screamed at him. Reminding him of the lessons of the academy. About gaining distance as a set up for a tactical approach. That such jutsu were usually just a bolstering build up to something much more harmful. Despite knowing this he would grin as his skin seemed to shift ever so slightly. Just a momentary ripple that one might mistake for the wind pressing against him. With that done Michibo began to charge forward again. This time with his kunai crossed in front of him in an X just beneath his eyes. His run was low now as he intended to come rising up through anything that was thrown at him. At least that had been his intention.

That had been the plan until suddenly mist flew everywhere and a voice rang out. Threatening his life. All their lives. He could feel the pressure of its killing intent like liquid fear gripping him. His run would slow to a walk as he had to take a moment to come to terms with it. Before him was some misty being spreading its monstrous intent to kill him. Against the other genin there was a chance for him to come out on top but here it was something he could feel. He could actively feel the void of difference between him and this aura. He was going to lose. His hands gripped his bone kunai as his pink eyes shifted to the one in front of him. Watching it approach as he trembled. If it was going to try and kill him at least he would make it work for it. He would force it at first but his sheer joy at the impossible riled up within him. From his fear and standing still suddenly Michibo would launch forward at the one opposing him. This mist monster as he would call out to it slashing wildly at it.

"You don't know the half of it! Come and kill me then or imma do you first!"

2957

235/250:

Kisuke standing in his apparent tunnel of wind which was made evident by the rippling in his clothes watched the man, who he now thought had gone completely mad if his opponent's mad dash and laugh was anything base to base it off of, get caught in his fuuton technique and sent back five meters putting them at decent six meters which would give Kisuke time to create his next technique barring the blow he took to his chest earlier he wasn't sure if he could produce it at its full capacity ensuring maximum productivity for himself in which he held back for this one time to make sure Michibo would know that he himself wasn't any pushover. Kisuke's aim was always to please in sparring battles, not only for himself but for his opponent, at least those who enjoyed the thrill of fighting as much as Kisuke did whoever that individual may be at the time. For now though he would make sure he got the best he could from Michibo and he was sure as hell going to make sure Michibo received the same. Kisuke still in his defensive stance watched as Michibo dropped low to the ground with his kunai in an x-formation just under his eyes in what looked like another attempt at getting Kisuke into a form of close combat which for Kisuke seemed like a bad idea as he didn't have any ninja tools himself, he would prefer to keep things in a mid to long range fight as Kisuke's current arsenal fit the bill against armed and crazy opponents.

This was Kisuke's current train of thought, but that was cut short by the enveloping thick mist rolling in on their battle, obscuring everything around Kisuke. Kisuke kept his eyes forward believing the mist to be a technique of Michibo's machination. Kisuke thought better of it in the end tactical strategy didn't seem like Michibo's strong suit or preferred route of combat branching, which left one other option in this strange wilderness. That was that one of the other two genin dropped this in their battle to judge each one's ability to adapt to changing circumstances after all no two battles would ever be directly the same in any aspect.  This train of thought was also derailed as Kisuke heard the presence of something or someone dreadfully heinous, to Kisuke it sounded like this new presence was issuing a wager, a wager for their very lives. "Definitely going back to the hospital after today is all said done." Kisuke thought to himself. Then hit Kisuke like a ton of bricks, the pressure of killing intent enveloping the mist he was encased in, the killing intent made it seem as if he would die right there if he wasn't smart, if the boy was having trouble breathing before it was shown crystal clear with his small asthma attack, but Kisuke couldn't let his nerve's get to him not when he still had so much to accomplish, by hardening his nerves and remembering his calming methods Kisuke got his breathing under control and in turn focused on the current phenomena before him. Kisuke looked around to see if anything was moving, stretching his senses as far as he could but to no avail until he turned back around face to face with some sort porcelain-faced phantom.

The being was strong judging from its aura of death rolling off it like a tidal wave crashing on a beach, Kisuke felt the mountainous difference in each other but he couldn't let a power scale deter him, after all, the bigger they are the harder they fall. Kisuke dashed into the offensive fray in an endeavor to exchange blows with the masked being, if all else failed he'd try to find one of the others and launch a combined effort against their masked opponent, but for now Kisuke would let the feeling of nervous joy creep into his being he'd try to gain something from this even if it were only moral lesson he'd take it, he just hoped his own demise wasn't the only thing garnered from this battle.

---

WC: 1545+717=2262

Chakra Used:

Spoiler:

"That's true, but you're pretty much a spider anyway y'know...I mean you bleed more obviously, but you're one of us so hey it's totally fine" Xiao stated, knowing in his heart it really wasn't all that in reality but when it came to the threat of Sero, Xiao hadn't actually met his clan leader nor had he much exposure to his history and thus the looming threat of his existence and rage was something more like a dream to Xiao than anything.

"I think he'll have to be a rival with that attitude...unless you're Lady Osada or Lady Yuki I doubt taming him will be easy..." the little spider commented as he looked to the two genin's battle, he had a soft spot for Kisuke already as he showed his resiliency.

The white haired shinobi who tended to have a bit of a raging temper was a kaguya or so it seemed, something that caused Xiao's mind to begin to slowly turn it's cogs as he considered the possibilities. Kaguya were one of the 'great' clans that made up the ancient bloodline, though Xiao had no direct or first hand experience with the clan beyond the stars he had like many shinobi heard of their legend. Kaguyas were a rare breed indeed but were most certainly of great value, much like his meeting with Sachihiro Senju though Xiao had no desire to 'capture' or abuse the great bloodlines to meet with one of their clan members was always enough to rouse Xiao's mind in thoughts of the legacy that they carried upon their shoulders and the possibility of their value as they grew into warriors. To have one among their own ranking would mean he would most definitely need to be honed into something of a weapon of Kirigakure, but to find a master to keep him in check and cool his temper would most certainly be essential for one such as he.

Haka would most certainly be a great source of training, she was one to not only cause darkness to subside but had a tendency to be able to tame it entirely and the possibility of a Kaguya weapon would most certainly be enough to entice the spider princess. "He's a kaguya...huh...well would you look at that..." Xiao stated calmly in a hushed tone as he looked on almost in a haze as he watched, the small phrase being all he could articulate to summarize his thoughts.

"Alright, It's a deal...I got faith in Kisuke. He's got a good heart, I can tell, gonna fit in well" Xiao stated folding his arms he watched the two genin continue their back and forth. As Michibo threatened Kisuke's life Xiao simply shook his head, the guy was way too aggressive for the spider's own liking, not that he didn't like him but rather he was concerned for his sanity between the laughter and homicidal nature he would definitely be somebody to keep an eye on in the future or perhaps to allow the pink reaper himself to keep a better look on, Chigetsu being a sort of 'shield' of the mist that Xiao knew he could rely on. "Come on Kisuke, I believe in you!" Xiao shouted out the the young genin with a thumbs up.

As this was done though the deepest fear of Xiao reared its head, rolling mist that filled the forest that was once mere whispers caused the little spider to tense his body knowing that perhaps Michibo's wreckless nature had already summoned the pink reaper himself and as the distorted voice echoed around then Xiao's suspcion was all but confirmed. Could it be Chigetsu? If so then explaining why they had not stopped the two at the threat of life would be difficult to explain but not as difficult as...

And thats when the aura he was all too familiar with hit him, his elder, the one that knew just how to tap into his fears...Haka. "Uh oh...We might be in trouble..." Xiao stated as he proceeded to move closer to Kaito gently placing his back against his elder brothers to ensure a semblence of direction even if he could not see. "Moms home...." Xiao stated in a hollow tone, as the mist servants descended. He didnt have many AoE jutsu in his bank and thus in stead stood in anticipation ready to face the horror of Sero's brood.

"Kisuke! If you can hear me. No matter what you do, just focus on trying to..." Xiao began almost laughing when he opted to use the word that had been burned into his mind as he spoke to the genin from the shrouded mist Survive."

The match had been going well, at least until the fog started to roll in. Having grown up in Kirigakure, Kaito recognized the difference between this mist and natural fog, their little gather was about to be attacked. Luckily enough for Kaito, he'd already been at least somewhat prepared for an encounter, keeping up with the chakra at his feet after Michibo's declaration of a challenge. The way the air seemed to hang heavier with a foul aura reminded Kaito of Spider Island, and his thoughts instantly went to an image of Haka standing over him after placing him in that genjutsu not to long ago. With Xiao at his back, Kaito was only able to smirk at the other boy's words. If Xiao knew this presence to be that of Haka's, then the four of them, Xiao and Kaito, as well as the newbloods Kisuke and Michibo, were about to get one hell of a training session.

Without waiting for the clones to appear from within the mist, Kaito began weaving chakra in spite of the senbon in both hands, utilizing a couple techniques taught to him by Haka herself, only to discover that both of the individuals that felt like Haka Osada's chakra signature were identical, and thus more than likely clones. "Xiao, have you ever known your mother to hide behind a mask?" Kaito asked, hoping the answer was no, if so it was doubtful that any of the four individuals making their way towards the various genin present were actually the dreadful shinobi herself. Not willing to take such chances, Kaito further made use of the Hand Seal Mastery technique to activate a couple more jutsu, it was doubtful he would prove much of a challenge to the Osada, but he couldn't submit for anyone, even a clear superier.

As the water infused chakra covered his hands and feet, Kaito dashed forward with his senbon in hand, stabbing at one of the suspected clones before making a second dash towards the one targeting Xiao. He'd have to deal with their own problems before providing aid to the to newer genin. This tactic would prove successful only for a moment, before ultimately it's uselessness was made apparent. Kaito had done little more than doubled his troubles, as both of the clones dissipated only to reform into four more. Kaito's intinital response was repulsion, not in disgust but instead by confusion, which made his face twitch in concentration. He'd never heard of such clones, at least not like this. There were tales of shadow clones that would split into weaker versions of themselves, but that wasn't what seemed to happen. These mist clones did not split, they had been destroyed and then somehow reformed. Was Haka really capable of reusing such a technique so quickly?

This moment of hesitation had cost him, as Kaito was forced by two of the clones to move into a defensive position, arms crossed overhead, senbon barred as if to swipe through the clone's middle section even as the defensive technique coating his arms and hands blocked whatever attack the clone made. Only, two things happened Kaito had not expected, first the clone's attack hadn't seemed to hit him, despite Kaito sensing it through the technique that allowed him to sense the presence of the chakra, and secondly as his senbon passed through one of the clones, once again it dissipated before reforming into two more. Now being surrounded by five clones, all completely identical, Kaito began to understand the circumstances of what was happening. As the clones moved in on him, the young Osoroshi turned his senbon on himself, stabbing both senbon into each of his thighs, the pain and the force of his own strength bringing him into a kneeling position even as the clones motioned as if to strike down at him.

Pulling the senbon from his body, Kaito searched for the clones only to see nothing but his fellow shinobi. Haka Osada was still isolated from his perceptions, but otherwise the various genin around him seemed fine. It had been a genjutsu, nothing more, but an impressive one at that. Kaito wasn't skilled in the art, but he understand the nature of it on a more basic level, well enough at least to know that injuring yourself was often an evident means of breaking from the effects. Still, the idea of making clones out of mist sent his mind in circles, as he attempted to form a new jutsu in his mind, but that could wait. Activating yet another mist related jutsu, Kaito stood as the wounds in his thighs began to be covered in water vapor, which stalled the bleeding for now until the technique would eventually begin to close. At some point, Kaito would still need to actually heal himself, but for now he began making his way over to Xiao, placing his hand on his brother's shoulder to stop the genjutsu's hold over the spider-nin.

It was as of yet unclear if Kaito had managed to pass the Osada's test or not, but he knew he'd soon find out. For now, he and Xiao would need to get the other two out of under the genjutsu's sway, then they would be able to provide a united front against the much more skilled shinobi lurking about. "Stalking your prey is your thing, subversion is how I prefer to devour mine." Kaito muttered to himself, feeling the strain of everything he'd done begin to pull on him. He still had most of his jutsu techniques at the ready, should Haka make another move. Until then, he'd wait for the others to ready themselves for whatever was to come next.

Jutsu Used - 225/305:

Items Used:

The two youngest genin would be left to deal with the Mist Servants as they searched for their own solutions to deal with the genjutsu created 'hydra' in clone form. It would be up to them to endure the assault of the mist clones until the technique ran out or until they had figured out it was but a figment of their own mind. A creation intended to impose upon their subconscious fear for the unknown as the mist stole their most basic sight. Haka would leave the two beginners with their own challenge, fixated her attention on the other older genin - Kyutai and Kaito.

To her perceptions, her own brood seemed to forsake his own safety in favour of that of others. Or rather, he sought to protect his back by having Kaito watch over it. An unusual approach to the solitary tyrant but not one she considered a bad choice. In doing so, he limited his field of danger by thrusting someone that literally 'had his back'. At the same time he called out to what Haka perceived as the weakest link of the four, telling him he had to 'survive'. An amusing thought, considering she was no familiar with the boy in question. His potential unknown so far.

But the most remarkable actions at this point were Kaito's, who quickly surmised that the clones were unlike anything normal jutsu would do. He'd use his senbon to wound himself, breaking the genjutsu that clouded his reality with the sobering realisation of pain and proceeded to use the mist to his benefit. While his moves were preventive rather than offensive, it remained an interesting find to see him turn a disadvantage into his own advantage with his own techniques. Subversion. Kaito's favourite means to take down his prey? To take one's hope and use it for your own was a form of mental domination in its own right.

The arachnid Hunter would take a last glimpse at Michibo and Kisuke who were left to break free from the genjutsu, considering them currently as sufficiently occupied in their own right. Though a temporary occupation, the group of four genin were currently brought down to two. The battle favouring the attackers for the time being, even if they had been at a lower rank. The question was, how long would it take for them to bind their strands and create a web sufficiently strong enough for them to tackle the hunter and reverse the tables?

Shifting her position through the mist, Haka would spit a web of chakra at Kaito. A simple technique, if anything, but when used well it could have a devastating aftermath. In this case, by binding Kaito in a chakra web and forcing him to stick to the ground for a while, Xiao would be left on his own to deal with the threat. Aside from fighting his way out of the genjutsu, he would now have to make the decision in persevering by himself or helping out any of the other occupied genin and risking to expose himself in the process. Would he maintain survival and rely on their individual strength to get out of the situation, or would he risk it all in favour of his humane friendship?

No matter the answer to this question, she would not make it easy on him. Forming half-hand seals faster than genin eyes could perceive, a blob of water farmed out of the mist and moved over to Kyutai with a gaping maw. Ready to devour his pride. After all, unlike Kaito, her own brood had yet to get into real action - no defence nor counter had been set up on his side.

---

620
Total: 1563

OOC: Total wc reduction for you lot is 30% at the end of this thread, not counting any you'd have for your own.
- 10% wc reduction for PVP
- 10% wc reduction for sensei (10% for B-rank)
- 10% for additional students being taught after the first (maxed)

240/350:

Michibo was struggling to land a hit for a moment until the clone before him seemed to intentionally take his blade. Like it wanted him to strike it down. The clone would seem to disperse into mist upon hit before it would swirl from one mass into two. Well now that was an interesting one. He was used to odds like this though. Every time you knocked an opponent down two more bigger and badder ones would always rise up in its place. However Michibo wasn't just going to sit around and take this as it reformed. He was already slamming into both clones. Slashing and stabbing each time one would reform. There had to be a limit, a drawback. Soon there were dozens he was trying to keep up with. Dodging and stabbing wildly. He was starting to fall back and eventually was aware he wasn't actually dodging everything. Instead he noticed he wasn't feeling anything connect. Slowly he forced himself to stop dodging and let the clones attacks pass through him. So that was the trick huh? He was breathing heavily but now he got it. He would take a breath as he brushed his hair and sweat from his face with his sleeve. Dozens of clones still attacking all around him as far as he could see.

Michibo would focus himself and his senses as he spread his feet. He was wildly still wanting to fight. His instincts told him to dodge and run but he knew that he couldn't do something so simple. He wanted to survive but he wanted to fight even if the odds were against him. His chakra would focus inwardly. Just a strand of it left to keep his bone armor going. The rest would push and flex as it felt through himself. His chakra finding this invading force. He hadn't noticed it before but there was an infection there. Almost like a swelling sensation that sent a false truth to his eyes. So this was a genjutsu. How fascinating. He would grin before his chakra forced out the invading chakra. A pulse seemed to disperse all the clones around him for him as he now stood clearly near all three of his allies. His other genin buds seemed to have mostly figured something out. The two that claimed to be real shinobi anyway. Figures they would be just ahead of him and calm about it too.

Michibo had begun to run over to those two for now. Power in numbers at least. He was almost right next to the spider boy when suddenly two jutsu came flying out of the mist. One was directed at the other boy and he couldn't do jack about it. It was outside of reach. The other however he could take. Michibo had already stepped into its path as it crashed into him and seemed to bite down. Water crashing around him and soaking Michibo. holes in his clothes from where it had bitten down but no blood. Instead Michibo would laugh at the whole thing. His kunai spinning in his palms a moment before regaining their reverse grip. The jutsu having done nothing to him other than getting him wet. His eyes scanned the mist before them as he panted out with glee. Wild eyes looking for the enemy he had no chance against. Instead he would speak to whoever was listening.

"Tell you what. First person to disperse this damn mist gets a cookie. Got that? I want to look whoever wants to kill me in the eye. I want them to see that I ain't goin down easy like some chump."

3,572

210/250:

Kick. Punch. Dodge. Repeat. Kisuke jumping in and out of both his and his opponent's reach. There seemed to be a pattern developing between Kisuke and his new masked dance partner, however, it seemed that to Kisuke his moves were being dictated almost forcing him into his current repetitive arsenal. After the fourth or fifth repeating sequence, Kisuke was able to land what looked like a suspect kick to the face of the being as it made zero effort to move out of the path of the blow. The kick sailed through cleanly, almost too cleanly phasing through his target's head and mask subsequently, but as the mask faded away it was almost immediately replaced by two more in its stead.
Now two enemies stood in place of the previous one, Kisuke pondering a few ideas, one of which was that Kisuke's opponent wasn't actually here but in clone form and this clone was somehow using the available mist as lifeline allowing it to split into more clones apparently. This was the only actual reasonable idea Kisuke had as the other ones seemed a bit far-fetched even by the current standard of the situation. With this mind, Kisuke acted on this notion aiming to attack the clones in tandem in hopes that the clones would either dissipate after either enough blows have landed or that these clones use up the amount of time they possess. It would seem though the clones have now the intentions to do harm and receive as their number's only increased with each blow they received, up to this point Kisuke had this somewhat figured after creating a now six-headed hydra clone that could not do harm as their blows landed they would phase through Kisuke much like he would to them, even if though Kisuke could sense the blows coming, however, Kisuke was not multiplying and Kisuke was beginning to grow tiresome of his phantom menace. Until finally, the epiphany came, this was a genjutsu made to wear out whoever was caught in it, now armed with new information or well theory at this point Kisuke regretted this turn of learning as having never taken the time to learn the genjutsu dispel, Kisuke watched as the six figures moved on him he would go down into a kneeling position and take his pinky with full grip thinking " Well here goes nothing." and twist at an odd angle breaking it in one swift motion in knowing that the overload of the senses should break him free of the visual nightmare.
When Kisuke looked back up he saw nothing no masked shadows trying to kill him as it was indeed genjutsu as Kisuke surmised. Kisuke looked around unable to see anyone due to the mist around, with pain in his hands he weaved hand signs and with a deep inhale exhaled a large stream of wind clearing away the mist surrounding him and helping spot his current group of Kiri compatriots, of whom he suspects have all broken the genjutsu before he did making him late to the party, he made his way over so they could better assess the hidden threat together after all four minds.... well three were better than one. Kisuke reached his group where he witnessed two projectile jutsu launched from the nearby wilderness. The first projectile appeared to be directed at either Kaito or Xiao, Kisuke wasn't sure but he wasn't about to find out and the second projectile whose brunt of the blow was received by Michibo having dived directly into its path as it left an apparent bite mark in his clothing. Kisuke moving through hand seals once more this time landing on the tiger seal and breathing a fireball encompassing the first projectile entirely and watching it sail and expand in size in the direction of the projectile's launch point.

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WC:2908

Chakra Used 200/250: