His eyes followed the bird that flew pass him as it spread its wings and flopped them gaining speed to move faster. He didn't break eye contact with the bird until it was to far to see, he continued his journey to the training field. Isuma was quiet this morning not speaking to much not even to himself, more focused on getting to the training field to get some training down. His hands on his pocket as he looked to the clouds, they moved so slow yet they moved at the same paste as him. The sun would move along also making it look like they where following him as if the universe had it's eyes fixed on him this morning. Isuma then focus on the road ahead of him the training field wasn't that far he could see it front the distance.

The training field was located in a small hill in the outskirts of konoha mainly used for long periods of hard training. It was used decently among all shinobies within the village incase they wanted to go all out and not get any incoming pedestrians in volved. Isuma walked the hill up as the view was pretty nice the sun was kinda in the few yet it was in the perfect spot to make everything look much brighter and alive. He made it to the top of the hill as he was in the training field, a circular are 40 yards long and wide several trees surrounding the hill in a circular manner also with four maniques two at the left of the training area and two at the right area both side of the training field had polls also surroundings the place with rectangular wooden plate with an X marked on them. This was for projectile training, to help does who lack accuracy which Isuma always train his accuracy to make sure he doesn't loss his aim. He made it to the center of the field as he kept his hands inside his sweater, and just looked around scooping out the situation to see how to come it and begin. Isuma would spread his legs wide as he would also bring his body lower as if he was turning super saiyan but his hands where still inside  his pockets as he looked around the area to see how much of the X he could have looked on with just knowing there presences as he moved his head around still standing in the same position he would then look down and close his eyes as he could begin to remember there spots. Isuma took out a blindfold from his left pocket and wrapped it around his eyes and when back to his position and hands back in his pocket.

Ten targets surrounded him, he has hit only eight of them before thats been his high score in a way. Isuma would begin to focus as he quickly took his hands out his pockets with his fingers positioned as a gun with both hands. Isuma would place both of his hands to the front, one twelve o'clock  and the other one at eleven o'clock as he would shot one round of lighting bullets with both hands, he would quickly spin to be facing his six o'clock and his five o'clock and shot another round thats already four, six more to go. Isuma would back flip landing on one knee as he would shot at his three o'clock and at his nine o'clock, as he stood up he would jump and do a half back flip, once his head was facing down he would spin spreading his arms shot two rounds threw both hands, as he began to fall down he would finish his flip and lading on his feet. Isuma took of his blindfolds and looked at his aim. "Really?" Isuma said to himself, as he missed all the shots but the burns of the shots where right next to the X's, he just missed by an inch in all of them.

Word Count: 677
Lightning Release: Shock Bullets
Chakra: 150 | 140 Left/ 10 Used.

Rippa had taken a stroll out of the village for his first day back. It was a fairly leisurely day with the sun out and in honesty one could hardly feel the cold pressing against their cheeks. Still he was moving away from the village and into the hills. With that being a ways away from the hot streets due to the packed together nature of the people he knew it would be colder up there. It was winter after all. His blue eyes would look up to the sky and see it was spotted with clouds so little chance of rain. As such his choice of attire was suitable. As per usual he was wearing a pair of black pants with a belt holding them tight to his waist. Along the belt were eight pieces of shining silver with notches in them. They wouldn't be recognizable at a glance but anyone who knew the captain of the sword saints knew they were called prayers. Crossbow bolts loaded into his unique weapons. His pants were tucked into a pair of dark combat boots that were shined on the top but had some scuffs and mud on the edges. The same boots he had worn to Kiri. For a top he had on his usual zip up black turtle neck with the zipper pulled up to just below the neck letting the collar fan out over the top of his red long coat. The shoulders each had a Konoha headband stitched into them and on the back was the symbols for Sword Saint and Captain. He didn't bother displaying his rank as Sannin. Only the position he held. Tucked onto his left waist was his twin katana crossbows, Adam and Eve. Held there in traditional style one over the other. On his right waist was a single scroll. A single sack was strapped to his back containing two wooden swords.

He had made good time to the training location with high hopes to get in some sniping practice today. There was a hill seventy meters from the main part of the training grounds that overlooked the target area. It provided a nice mixture of wooded area and wind speed for him to have to get a feel for where he was aiming and where the bolt would go. The breeze wasn't too harsh but enough to be taken into consideration at seventy meters. However as he landed in his usual spot underneath a pine tree alone on the hill he would gaze down to his target zone. It would Appear he was not the first one here for the morning which surprised him. He didn't typically run into others out here. Not at this time. However he wasn't willing to risk another individuals health within his target zone. With a sigh of defeat he decided he would wait the kid out. But at the same time curiosity lingered within him. His hand rose to stroke his chin. The stubble there brushing harshly against his fingers before he decided he would like a closer look.

With that in mind Rippa would make his way from the hilltop he was at to a closer view. Keeping an eye on the kid as he did so. He seemed to be looking around for something before, he blind folded himself. So this kid was up to training with a handicap already huh? Or was it just bravado? Rippa would reach the nearby area just as the kid began his display of physical prowess. Taking his own time to Shed his coat and fold it before placing his twin swords and scroll on top. Standing there as the boy finished with his heroics against the vile targets holding the sack with the two wooden training swords over his shoulder. Standing there with his white hair shifting in the wind in a sweater and pants with boots and no markings to suggest he was a shinobi. Careful to conceal his chakra levels as he relaxed while he waited. As the boy noted he wasn't perfectly on the mark Rippa would smile before speaking up. Letting his arrival be known.

"While its good the remain flexible and to be able to target a thing you can only remember the position of but not see, It is good to remember the basics as well. The more you move around the less chance you have of recalling the exact position of the target. Minimal required movement is also best in a fight. Better to let the enemy get tired before you do. If you don't need a flip to dodge don't use one."

781

Isuma looked at the blindfold as he kept a serious face as he just starred with anger. As a voice from behind him would break the silence "While its good the remain flexible and to be able to target a thing you can only remember the position of but not see, It is good to remember the basics as well. The more you move around the less chance you have of recalling the exact position of the target. Minimal required movement is also best in a fight. Better to let the enemy get tired before you do. If you don't need a flip to dodge don't use one." the unknown man said. Isuma would turn his head to the right as he glazed at the white haired man with the long red trench coat, He would let go of the blindfold as he slowly turn towards the man. Isuma standed his ground as he placed his hands back into his black sweater, Isuma's yellows eyes would stare at his blue eyes as a moment of silence would come across them.

"who the hell are you?, and why you telling me how to train" Isuma said egotistaclly. The breeze began to pick up as the sky began to get clouded and rain began to drop. A drop of rain hit Isuma in the head, as he looked up at the sky "Mhm, so did you come to lecture me" Isuma said towards Rippā as he would stare back at him, awaiting an answer but knowing how stubborn are ninja's from konoha Isuma began to talk again "I don't need your help" as he would turn his back at him at Rippā. In the back of Isuma's sweater was the symbol of the sarutobi clan, Isuma began to make hand signs as he would turn back to Rippā, raising his left hand up, making a ring with his pointing finger and thumb as he took a deep breath filling his lungs with chakra then exhaling it all out as a ball of fire began to move towards Rippā the closer it got to him the bigger it looked. Isuma took out a kunai from his pouch, placing his pointing finger in the loop as he gripped it with the blade on the bottom. Isuma extended the hand with the kunai to the front of him with his other hand near his chest and face made into a fist, he moved his left leg to the front amd bended it and his right right leg would stay behind him almost looking like a martial art stand.

Isuma began to think to himself "just by his look, I can tell his speed and strength match each other his Reaction-time should also match his speed and strength. So if he does come my way, i should throw two shurikens directly at him and if he moves to either his left or right ill surprise him with a few shock bullets. And if he dicideds to dodge by jumping I got him with another Great Fireball Jutsu. He was confident about himself yet warry about the results, but it was to late to take anything back.

Word Count: 545
Fire Style: Great Fireball Jutsu
Chakra: 150 | 135 Left  15 Used[/u]

Rippa would raise an eye brow at the young mans response. In part because it was fair. If not a bit rude. Rippa hadn't introduced himself and his coat signifying him as a Konoha shinobi was folded on the ground some distance behind him. He sure was a mouthy kid. Still Rippa would sigh a moment at the thought of it. He was a highly trained individual. Perhaps had the kid known who he was this wouldn't be part of the chatter between them. However a part of Rippa was eager to play his game. After all if the kid had that much spunk then he might be capable of learning a thing or two before he collapsed. At which point Rippa would be happy to provide him with some medical help. However as the boy turned he would take note of the Sarutobi Symbol. A clan he had crossed paths with before. They were known for their firepower. Pun intended. He had never met someone so attuned to Katon as a member of that clan. However a smile crossed his face. Katon and raiton. He could handle this. He was highly familiar with Raiton and as for Katon, well, that would be revealed in time.

His other eyebrow would raise at the sudden turn of the boy. He had felt a fluctuation in chakra but it wasn't enough for a large scale attack. He hadn't concerned himself too much at it but still, at this range even a genin couldn't be ignored. Even as the boy spun and began to exhale he could feel the heat emerging from the boy. He couldn't sense any static in the attack which led him to believe one thing, the Sarutobi that didn't need his help was lashing out at him with something he was comfortable around. Something he had grown with an in depth knowledge of and a deep bond to. Fire. It was going to come fast and big. However Rippa could react in time. He didn't need to think on what to do or how to defend. Even as his mind registered heat his free hand rose to his mouth. His fingers curled inwards in a half open fist as it pressed to his mouth. Fire filled the vision between them and scoured the ground and air. So much destruction and over a little friendly advise. What if Rippa had been a nosy peasant? What if he had not been capable of defending? This boy was too impulsive and as such would need to be taught manners.

The fireball was almost upon him in an instant but Rippa barely felt the heat as his own chakra slammed up towards his mouth. He was going to taste this for some time but he would make do. A breath attack for a breath attack. From what the young Sarutobi would see, His fireball would suddenly stop where it was and fold in on itself before bursting into steam. As the steam cleared Rippa would be standing there lowering his hand with an eyebrow raised. Among the burnt grass on the ground was a strange crimson liquid. More than the human body could possibly contain. As if blood had been ripped out of a few people and placed there. Still Rippa would speak in a soft tone but clear enough to be heard. "That boy, was an exercise in futility. Put the knife down. For gods sakes I have two sticks and you already tried to burn me alive." Rippa would let out a huff as if offended at the act before removing the large sack from his shoulder. Pulling out the two wooden practice Katana. Simple knotted wood carved into two swords. Low quality unlike Bamboo but it would do. He would keep the one in his left hand but his right would toss the other to the boys feet gently. Allowing it to be either caught or clatter to the ground in front of him. "Try taking me on with that. No one gets seriously hurt and if you can hit me before the end of the day, you prove you don't need any of my advise."

1486
Blood Release: Blood Trumpet
Chakra 340/350

Isuma would focus on Rippā's move but something else happen, the fireball would suddenly stop in place. "What The ..." Isuma said nearly speechless as he glanced  at the fireball when it began to suck itself up like if it was a vortex. Isuma stood speechless as his hands shooked, he began to feel nervous yet he stand his ground not letting himself look afraid nor surprised it. Isuma would see Rippā just stand there not moving like nothing happened yet there was blood all around the floor like he just killed a group of people, "That boy, was an exercise in futility. Put the knife down. For gods sakes I have two sticks and you already tried to burn me alive" Rippā said. Then he took out a white sack as he would drop it and open it, taking out two wooden swords. They where clearly for training as Rippā then explain the situation "Try taking me on with this. No one gets seriously hurt and if you can hit me before the end of the day, you prove you don't need any of my advise." As he would toss one of the wooden swords at Isuma, as he would catch it and look at it for a breif moment gripping it, as he put down his kunai back into his pouch. "..." Isuma stood quiet just looking at the blade.

Isuma would tossed the sword up and holded it with his other hand as he swang the sword around to get a feeling for it. Then pointed at Rippā with it "Fine i'll take you on, on that deal but i'll do it my way" Isuma said with a motivated face almost like he was smiling in joy, it's been a while seens he held a sword of any kind. Isuma would stand the same stance he was with the kunai but because this was a sword instead of holding the sword in front of him pulled it back near his face with his other hand the bottom of the sword. Isuma would begin to sprint as he started to pick up his speed running at full speed, as g went for a slash attack of course this move would either be clocked or dodged, if either occurred, Isuma would jump back 2 yards and run back at him this time looking for a stab attack, the blades where not sharp so this wouldn't have any damage but a hit to the gut would atleast take the breath out of someone, if Rippā would have blocked this attack with his sword Isuma would use his other hand hitting the heel of the sword trying to push Rippā back to the tree behind him.

If that would fail Isuma would jump back a bit more getting some space between them to take a moment of relief. The point of this was to hit him after all, but Isuma knew from the beginning that this wasn't going to be easy. Someone that makes stipulations like that has to be 100% confident in themselves or just knows that the target doesn't have a chance of even getting near him. Isuma would keep his eyes concentrated on Rippā "I'm Sarutobi, Isuma by the way" Isuma said.

Word Count: 559

(Notes. Specify which way you are slashing, Horizontal? or vertical, and direction, from the left or from the right, my left or your right? I will be assuming its a vertical for now. Also, "with his sword Isuma would use his other hand hitting the heel of the sword " I will assume your sword. Please try and make it clear who you are directing such actions to.)

Rippa would keep an eye on the young Sarutobi as he caught the wooden sword. Watching as he gave it a couple practice swings. Good, he knew to find the feel of the weapon before charging in with it given the time. He could prove to grow remarkably with this training session. A glance at the sky with a few droplets splattering around them suggested they might not have much time to remain comfortable in the open like this. He didn't have any dome techniques to protect them. Well if the kid didn't surrender before it started pouring, if it did, he would just have to get drenched. Wet and cold...how fun. The sword being redirected to point at Rippa brought his attention back. He was sure the kid wouldn't fire off another ranged attack but he was ready just in case. Still the kid spoke up about accepting his challenge and all Rippa could manage was a soft smile. Rotating the wooden katana once in his hand before holding it one handed across his person. His hand and handle at his left hip and the tip at his right shoulder. His feet spread a little bit so they were in line with his shoulders and he would slow his breathing. Calm. It was a dance after all.

He would watch the young man adopt a traditional stance. A Hassō-no-kamae stance even. So he had some training in Kendo if nothing else. Rippa would shift at the sight of it by turning his body. He kept his sword in the same defensive posture but provided less of a target and allowed himself a foot behind him to retreat if need be. His blue eyes would take the boy in as he charged in and went for a downwards slash. Perhaps the one move that stance was best designed for. Seeing this Rippa would shift back and bring his own blade up and turned. Moving so that his block would intercept the other blade at the tip with the base of his own blade. It was true that a two handed stance held more power if it sacrificed speed but the majority of power in any sword stance except a few strange exceptions was at the base of the blade near the grip. The tip of the sword was just a directed weapon. With that block Rippa would watch the young man launch back two yards. He would wonder how long he could keep that up. It was a lot of movement at a speed that was pushing himself while Rippa retained minimal movement himself. Perhaps he could speed the exhaustion along a little.

This time the young man would rush forward but with the tip of his sword lowered. A lunging stab it appeared to be but with footing still in place. Was he intending to push Rippa back with sheer speed and force so early in the fight? An interesting kid. Though it could be feint. He would have to check and see. So Rippa would whip his own sword back down and place it in the path of the blade to intercept. His blue eyes watching as the young man went to drive the hilt forward with a palm shoved into the base of his own sword. However seeing it wasn't a feint but a hard push Rippa would shift to the left and with him his sword would shift. Sliding along the opponents blade as he stepped forward allowing the boys own momentum and forward push to carry him. He was quick to regain his footing and attempt a retreat but Rippa would lash out as he shifted to attempt to slap him in the ribs with his own weapon since he would now be standing on the boys right. Enough to hurt and knock some air out but no real damage. His goal was to cause the kid to focus on breathing or begin to breath heavier at least. Still Isuma would introduce himself as he regained some distance. Rippa remaining calm and keeping his stance. Careful not to pursue just yet. He was the defender. Still he would bow his head a little before speaking in return.

"Master Sarutobi Isuma is it? Please, call me Dr. Chi."

2272

Rippā would slide to Isuma's left side of him. Isuma connected with the tree as he looked to his left and saw Rippā's hand move to attack he was so quick, Isuma had little time to think just react. As he lifted his knee moving it towards the sword as it would connect isuma felt the pain as it showed in his face. Isuma jumped back as he began to rubbed his knees "Ouch, ouch" Isuma said in pain, as he stood up then introduced himself. Rippā would bow his head a little before speaking in return. "Master Sarutobi Isuma is it? Please, call me Dr. Chi." as Isuma gave him a face of what type of name i that but didnt say anything he just placed the wooden sword on his shoulder as he catched his breath for a bit. The rain began to pick up it still wasn't raining hard but you could feel the rain atleast. Isuma opened his palm as drops of water rain down on it, "it's beginning to rain harder, I wonder if it will begin to poor soon" Isuma said as he looked at Rippā.

Isuma pointed the blade once again at Rippā as he jammed the blade to the ground for a breif moment. As Isuma walked in front of the sword and began to stretch his legs then his back, after he was done Isuma spread his legs and placed his arms on his legs looking at Rippā with a smile as he thought of an idea, it might have been a bit tricky and reckless but sometimes you need to toss the coin of luck and hope that luck is in your side. As Isuma began to run directly at him leaving the wooden blade in the stuck on the ground, as soon as he got 2 yards close to Rippā be began to zig-zag from left to right picking up a bit of speed. As he direct punch at Rippā's gut of course this was just a test to see how to gain an opening this move would either be blocked or dodged, if Rippā would have dodged it by moving out the way, Isuma would quickly retreat his arm back quickly going for a roundhouse kick, if Rippā would have blocked the punch with his wooden sword, Isuma would duck down and go for a legsweep trying to drop him on his back. If either of does two situations happened regardless of how the out come would play out Isuma would jump back a 4 yards away from Rippā and 1 yard away from the wooden sword on the ground.

Isuma would do the serpent hand sign as long blue chakra threads can out Isumas fingers. Long enough for him to toss them one yard behind him just as he did, as he release the hand signs letting the strings touch the floor from behind him. Isuma would then begin to sprint once again at him Rippā, pulling on the strings as hard as he could. He began moving forward with the strings behind him as he would stop and slip on his heels once he 2 yards, ducking letting the wooden sword that was being pulled with the strings from behind him to catapult like a spear straight at Rippā. The moment the sword would pass by his face he would reach for it grabbing the hilt of the sword quickly beginning to run again as half way Isuma would jump placing the sword in front of him aiming straight at Rippā for another stab attack but from above him.

Word Count: 610
Puppet Technique
Chakra: 150 | 130 Left 5 Used

(Another couple of notes. When you make multiple attacks like that if the opponent does something to counter the first attack that would throw off the rest, the other attacks are canceled out. You don't lose the chakra and the technique is never used, you just pick up from that point. So I am not ignoring the rest of your post just countering you at the first attack.)

Rippa would see the kid react to his slice at his rib cage by raising a knee. A good reflex to have. Sacrifice non vitals for vitals. He would hear the wood connect with a crack to the kneecap before refraining from following through and perhaps actually cracking the poor kids bone. He was being careful to keep it roughly the kids level for the time being if not a little faster since he hated losing. From what he could tell from the kids movements and speed he was roughly genin level. Flexible and energetic with good movement but still a genin. If he pressed him too hard he was likely to discourage him. Still Isuma launched back and gained some distance before rubbing his knee. It likely stung but that would be all for now. It was so odd to see someone let down their guard so much even during training. However he did accept that he was used to training with specialists B rank and up. It was normal for a genin to be so relaxed during training. Rippa would swish his own sword and straighten out before sliding it down his left hip like he was sheathing it. However his stance felt ready. And his grip never left or loosened on the handle. He watched as Isuma finally stopped to catch his breath and the rain picked up a little. He could feel it soaking into him but he would remain stoic for the moment. A drop falling from his bangs to the ground. The young man would comment on it but Rippa would simply shrug before speaking.

"Rain or no, battle happens in all weather. When you are ready though we will call it and seek shelter. However as to your last defense. Keep in mind what you can risk in battle. It's good that you would sacrifice a limb before a vital on instinct however try and train yourself to sacrifice an arm before a leg. The ability to move is more important than the ability to fight. At least then if you needed to you could still retreat."

As he spoke the young man seemed to stretch out a bit before grinning at him. He had hatched some half hazard plan now it seemed. Rippa could feel the tension building up between them before suddenly the young man launched towards him without his weapon. He appeared to be coming at him in a serpentine pattern with his bare hands. To Rippa that was sheer foolishness. Choosing to abandon a weapon in favor of hand to hand combat against an armed opponent with no means of blocking a blade, especially after the opponent had proven himself on par with you, was a crazed act. Then again, Sarutobi were known for their firey will and pride. Perhaps he actually considered unarmed attacks a means to catch Rippa off guard. Still as he drew close Rippa lowered his stance and bent at the knees. Squaring his shoulders as he entered into a draw stance. As soon as Isuma was within range Rippa would flash draw his wooden katana in an upwards slice. Perhaps a little faster this time than needed but he wanted to drive the point home. The blow was aimed to catch Isuma on the chin and rack his skull a little. If Isuma would somehow react to the slice and attempt to avoid it Rippa would simply step into it and drive it forward more to keep him from retreating. Even if he blocked it with his hand or knee again it was going to hurt. Should the boy choose the moment to recover Rippa would speak again. Holding his sword in front of him in both hands with the tip pointed upwards and in Isuma's direction. Ready for retaliation.

"In my experience I find it unwise to willingly abandon a means to block or attack such as a weapon. In some instances it is the difference between life and death. Keep in mind when your opponent is armed and you are not, they have a longer reach. Only approach them if you see a way within their reach."

3038

As Isuma got closer he notice Rippā stance change what ever he had in mind was not going to stop Isuma from connecting his right hand to his chest. Isuma got within the range he had to get but Rippā had already made his move as from the corner of his eyes Isuma notice the wooden sword rise up going for a upward slash Isuma quickly moved his left hand under his chin right in time but it was not good the sword would hit isuma's hand and his knuckles would hit his chin biting down on his tongue a pain came across mouth to his body. Isuma tried to move back but it was to late for him as Rippā drove in the wooden sword to his stomach. Isuma would spit the blood from his mouth from biting his tongue on the floor his body shaked in pain as he stood on his feet yet felt like he was falling holding the Rippā's wooden sword as he ran out of breath with that attack.

"In my experience I find it unwise to willingly abandon a means to block or attack such as a weapon. In some instances it is the difference between life and death. Keep in mind when your opponent is armed and you are not, they have a longer reach. Only approach them if you see a way within their reach." Rippā said as Isuma looked up at him with hone eye closed from the pain cursing threw his body at the moment. But Isuma smiled as he claps both his hands together with what strength he had left he filled his lungs with chakra as he exhaled a gas like ashes that surrounded both Isuma, and Rippā. Isuma would hold tight the wooden sword pushing himself back with all his might as he flew 1 yard away from the gas, landing on his back, the moment he landed on his back he would point both his hand at the area filled with ash gas in the form of a gun as he shot two shock bullets directly at it. As he fired he yelled "How's this for an approach! As he felt to the floor the heat of the explosion was warming as Isuma slowly stood up planting his hand on the ground standing on one knee with his other arm resting his other leg. Isuma tried to catch his breath but that hit from earlier did to a lot of damage, at least pain wise. Isuma stood up to both his legs as he looked back and the wooden sword was close as he made his way to the wooden sword, and grabbed it picking it up. Isuma would then turn around to where Rippā was as he stood in a new stance, Isuma would square up spreading his legs and trying to as much strength as he could holding the wooden sword with both hands with the wooden sword facing backwards on his shoulder. As he yelled at Rippā "I know your still there, So show yourself. I still have one last attack left before I reach my limit" Isuma said gasping threw out his sentence.

Word Count: 541
Fire Style: Misty Flame Dance
Lightning Release: Shock Bullets
Chakra: 150 | 115 left 20 Used

Rippa would watch the young man as he seemed to glare and wince at the same time. He had felt the last attack. Rippa had been careful so as not to break him with it so he was conscious. Nothing a little medical wouldn't heal if the kid wanted it. Still Rippa couldn't allow a lesson like keeping ones weapon handy be overlooked. It was one of the basics for all weapon users. Never let go of your weapon...never lose your grip. Unarmed is death, unable to hold your weapon is death, unwilling to swing is death. His own lessons in swordsmanship had been much the same but with the previous Hokage. His lesson involved a lot more smacking of the fore arms though. However this kid had a little left in him. Even if Rippa was being a little abusive Isuma was sure showing that Sarutobi spirit. With that spirit in mind a katon jutsu was hardly a surprise. Rippa prepared to back away quickly in case of sudden flames and throw up a blood wall. His chakra swelling and preparing within him. A point blank katon jutsu, even at genin level could still hurt. However as a familiar odor was introduced on exhale he would cancel out that chakra swell. An odd choice to use the air bomb but he supposed understandable at this range.

So as the kid launched back Rippa would lean to the left and step. The moment the kid fired those Raiton bullets Rippa's flash step dropped him several meters away. A single step moving him out of harms range at a slightly faster speed than the raiton bullets could travel and yet, all in a blink of an eye. To the young Isuma or to any genin for that matter it would seem as if Rippa was caught in the explosion that suddenly rocked the area. The boom echoing out a short way as fire lit up the air only to be replaced with the smoke of burning ground. It was during that smoke that Rippa would take cover behind a training doll and remain silent. Watching the young man regain his footing before regaining his sword as the smoke would slowly begin to clear. He would shout out a determined challenge which would cause a small smile to ripple across Rippa's face. He had gusto that was for sure. Still it was time to end this he supposed. Learning when to acknowledge one needed to retreat was important to. For all the will of fire talk that kind of mindset got people killed that didn't have to be. There was honor in surviving.

With another step he would seem to appear behind the kid. His sword in both hands with the it held down at the waist. Held on his right side, his dominant side, for a more precise stab with his other hand to simply drive it in more. His sword would aim at the small of the young mans back a little to the right of the spine. Aimed at a nerve cluster that in Rippa's experience could drop anyone. "All of this, remember it well" He said as he drove it straight forward. Slamming the wooden sword into the cluster if he could with enough force to move Isuma off his feet and forward. It was designed to hurt. However a moment later the sounds of a cart approaching would draw his attention. He would launch back a couple meters from the boy and shift his gaze in the direction of the road leading right by the grounds. His eye brows raising as a squadron of Sword saints crested the hill drawing a cart with a single pack horse. They would stop in front of Rippa. One man coming forward and Saluting him. "Captain sir! We have encountered a new group. As you can see from the cart here we put them down when they attacked us. You are requested at once back at the Sword saints compound to evaluate what needs to be done."

Rippa would sigh and nod before a couple of the men shifted passed Isuma and collected his coat and weapons before bringing them back to Rippa and helping him put them back on. The Sword Saint captain symbol clear on the back of the coat now as Rippa's wooden sword was collected and they attempted to collect Isuma's too. However Rippa would move to the cart and glance passed the covered bodies to their gear. Collecting an aged Chinese Dao. The blade was old and lacked a polish but seemed sharp, the scabbard was leather and Bamboo and simple in nature. Its hilt was wooden and wrapped in a ragged cloth and the flags hanging off the hilt were a worn red. It had been a weapon of worth but leaving it to ruin had taken its toll without proper maintenance. Rippa would quietly move over to the young Sarutobi as he examined the weapon out of its sheath before placing it back within. Talking as he did so.

"The way you hold a sword, it appears you practice Kenjutsu, yes? The Chinese Dao was my first blade. Mine was in better shape but I would be remiss to leave a swordsman without a blade. Would you like this one?"

3933

Isuma watched as the smoke rose up and spread over the area cleaning itself up. Isuma took a deep breath as the smoke clouds began to disappear as the grass was black and the smell of burn came about he looked around to see if he could find Rippā. "Where are you hiding?" Isuma asked himself as he felt a breeze behind him. Isuma would try to look back but all he heard was "All of this, remember it well"  Rippā told him as jabed him sending Isuma flying across the area, as he spin all over the ground. A pain that neutralized his movement as his face layed on ground looking at Rippā just look at him. However a moment later the sounds of a cart approaching would draw his attention. Rippā would launch back a couple meters from the Isuma and shift his gaze in the direction of the road leading right by the grounds. His eye brows raising as a squadron of Sword saints crested the hill drawing a cart with a single pack horse. They would stop in front of Rippa. One man coming forward and Saluting him. Isuma glanced at them trying to heard them out. "Captain sir! We have encountered a new group. As you can see from the cart here we put them down when they attacked us. You are requested at once back at the Sword saints compound to evaluate what needs to be done." The man told Rippā.

Several man's collected Rippā's coat and wooden sword. As a symbol in the coat caught Isuma's attention, he tried to stand up and gain control over his body as an agonizing pain ran threw him. Isuma felt to his knees as the two man stood in front of isuma not saying anything just took the wooden sword and walked back to Rippā. Isuma placed his hands on the ground and turn them into fist and he was angry with himself as he began to think to himself "Damn I wasn't at my best, from the beginning I was out match. What a fool I have been." as he grinded his teeth against each other. A familiar voice began to speak ""The way you hold a sword, it appears you practice Kenjutsu, yes? The Chinese Dao was my first blade. Mine was in better shape but I would be remiss to leave a swordsman without a blade. Would you like this one?" Rippā told Isuma as he looked up at him as began to pick himself up from the ground the pain struck again. Isuma left a small gasp but stood up to his feets as he looked at Rippā, and bowed at him extending his hands forward. "You didn't have to feel pity for me, But Thank You for this match. I'll keep those word near my heart. The will of fire in your heart shines brighter than mine i can see that now, from the beginning i was no match for you." Isuma said as he looked at Rippā's blue eyes and Isuma's yellows eyes shine bright "Next time, I'll come on top. Isuma said accepting Rippā's Dao.

Word Count: 552

"You didn't have to feel pity for me, But Thank You for this match. I'll keep those word near my heart. The will of fire in your heart shines brighter than mine i can see that now, from the beginning i was no match for you."

Pity...an interesting way to look at the way things turned out he supposed. He wasn't interested in arguing the word. He certainly didn't feel anything that had transpired had been based on pity. He had offered the boy advise and been attacked. If anything he had taught the young man a lesson reinforced with pain. With luck he wouldn't fireball random people in the future just for talking. He had been lucky that Rippa could handle it but he could of seriously hurt someone. However Rippa was the one in the end having to break their deal early. He had duties to attend to and a new threat to consider within the lands. With Kenta out of town he would need to be even more vigilant. However his blue eyes would glance down as the young man bowed before him and held out his hands. Respect was given now at least. Still those golden eyes stared into the deep blue sea of his own. A phrase stated with ambition behind it. "Next time, I'll come on top"

Rippa would smile a little at that. Ambition was a swordsman's muse. So long as he had it, had a goal to strive for and was alive. So long as he had those things he would grow stronger. His blades would move faster and cut deeper in time and so it was good in Rippa's mind that he had given the boy a goal. The young Sarutobi wished to surpass Rippa and in order to do that he would need to be strong indeed. Not that he couldn't see it happening. The division he led, the title he held were founded based on the swordsmanship of one man after all. A Sarutobi much like the one before him now. Simply more matured. THE sword saint of Konoha had been a Sarutobi. At least he thought that was the legend. He had never met the man but tales of his exploits were well known at the compound. Still Rippa would bow his head in return, less than the boy before him to hold to tradition and he would place the sheathed weapon in his hands. Speaking with warm words.

"I am sure you shall. Should you wish to train with me in the meantime, truly learn how to use that blade, Find me at the sword Saints compound. Simply ask for the captain. Or Rippa if you prefer. I look forward to when next we meet all the same Sarutobi Isuma."

With that he would place his hand on the young mans shoulders as the rain began to pick up. As soon as he touched him it would feel like the warmth of Rippa's hand would seem to instantly flow through the boy. All his injuries and aches would heal in an instant just from being touched by the man. An ability of the Angel branch of the Chi clan. All it was between the two was a pat on the shoulder and yet it would of healed virtually anything not life threatening completely. With that he climbed into the cart as they pulled up a tarp and off they went. Staying dry out of the rain.  Rippa would look back as they went. Watching the boy as long as he could until the rain and trees blocked him from view. Interesting lad indeed.

Exit thread

4550

4000/5000 towards Taijutsu C-B


(You can find a C rank Chinese Dao in the weapons catalog. Take 1, its already bought and paid for.)

Isuma stood bowing at Rippā as he kept his hands up allowing him to get the dao. Isuma would stand straight now looking at the dao and at Rippā. "I am sure you shall. Should you wish to train with me in the meantime, truly learn how to use that blade, Find me at the sword Saints compound. Simply ask for the captain. Or Rippa if you prefer. I look forward to when next we meet all the same Sarutobi Isuma." Rippā said as Isuma would quickly respond "Thanks, Ok i will."

Rippā would take off entering the cart then leaving. As Isuma watched the cart get farther and farther away from him. Isuma would take a look at the dao that was just handed to him. The dao spans 80 cm from tip to the base of the tsuba. The hilt spans 6 inches, and it comes with a hard leather and bamboo sheath to hold the blade. It was in good conditions but it had better days, but a gift was a gift. Isuma placed it on his lower back holding it with his belt. As he began to walk and make his way to the village. He would look at the sky as it poured over him but the drops of water felt great. He didn't even recognize that he was healed up, Isuma thought that the rain made healed his wounds but little did he know it was Rippā when he placed his hand on Isuma's shoulder. Isuma walked threw the trees trying to get cover from the rain a bit. He sat down under a tree for a few to see if the rain would stop as he took out his dao and looked at it just admiring the blade itself. Isuma placed it back as he looked at the tree it almost seemed as if it stop raining for a brief  moment so Isuma decided to make his way back to the village.

Isuma placed his hands on his pockets as he made his way to the gates. The chunnins on front of the gates waved at Isuma. He would wave back and continue his walk back to his house, the rain felt great as he continue his walk to his house thinking of what happen today. It almost felt like a dream to Isuma he was so excited to give his dao a try but he needed to get back home before he got sick. A day that would change Isuma like no other. He smiled on his way to his house as he stood and and looked back at the gate as he pointed "I'll become just as strong as you, and then I'll surpass you" Isuma would say as he turn back and continue walking. As he made it to his house he would walk up the steps and unlock his door, opening it then closing it, locking it behind himself.
Exit Thread

Word Count: 503
Obtain Chinese Dao
Total Word Count: 3987