[Yoshiko]

Second Exam: Team B Stone & Cloud @ Landing Escaping the maze both contestants would be lead up very similar paths. The stair well would wind up to a large concrete room, it'd appear to have many roots cracking up the interior. Both the ground and walls appearing to be cracked by this wildlife. It'd be no surprise of this or the fact the roof was an odd bark like tone, as the contestants would be lead down a hall leading to the outside world. The earlier room which all mazes lead to would be built under or more appropriately into a tree. This tree in order to house such a room, halls and stair wells to the mazes would be massive. It stood likely as high as a skyscraper and appeared to be relatively straight upwards, a massive branching system at the top, but mostly hidden by the green leafs of the tree. Ouritsu and Reiki would both be lead to a platform, it was a mere wooden platform, situated directly next to the trunk of the tree. Little would they know three other platforms similar to theirs was at each side of the tree. There'd be two yellow lines drawn up the bark of the tree, as if to almost create a straight path upwards. It'd however not be the much space, it'd be about a fifteen meter gap between the two yellow lines. There'd appear to be different bands to the tree too, but it was hard to distinguish what was up ahead from down below. Ouritsu arriving to the platform first, he'd have to wait a little while for Reiki to arrive. It'd be the same person leading them, a fact made sense by one dispersing, as one or both were clones. "Welcome to the next stage of the exams, I'll announce the full objective of this exam once all participants are readied. So please get acquainted, you two will be a team for the next test." The man would state in a joyous manner with a slight chuckle. These forces were either neutral or allied to the man's, so he could feel the most comfort and will towards their success.

[Omori Reiki]

Team B

Little did he want to talk about that hell, but at least he came out with a weapon. That weapon was going to be his best friend throughout these exams. There was little to feel optimistic about, but he was durable enough to find his way through the next steps. At the very least, chakra wasn't going to be much of an issue. And so up the path would lead him down another path, this one far clearer and far more cheery. Okay, this brought his morale up a little. And so he took calm steps towards the platform to see what he would find at the end of it. One down, another one to take on.

Reiki would arrive towards the meeting point, though he blinked upon seeing the clone of the two disappear. Okay, nice little trick we have here. Regardless, the brunette would note that another ninja was there. The Iwagakure one, correct? There's plenty of charisma with that village if the cheers were to suggest anything. Other than that, there was little to be known. Oh, and that might mean they were going to be picked off one by one in a duel? Reiki didn't want to ruin the party, but that sounded less than ideal at the moment.

Fortunately, that wasn't the case! Instead, the man announced that they'll be pairing up. Niiiiiiice, so that meant they were going to have to work together. There can't be conflict between them if they want to make it out. Relations had to be set between them. The Iwagakure shinobi in the past were nicer to him. At least, most of them were if he remembered correctly. And so he would raise an awkward right palm. He wasn't the best at a conversation with strangers.

"Hey there." His friendliest greeting accompanied by a shy smile.

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[Nōhime Ouritsu]

i think you're slipping

i bring you pain, the kind you can't suffer quietly

Following the man up the stairs and through yet another path Ouritsu recounted his time in the maze while looking forward to what lie ahead for the rest of the exams. Through talking with Akira it was clear that at some point whoever was left were going to have fight which made sense considering those who were promoted would be given more duties in their respective villages and few, if any of said duties would include figuring out puzzles; though if that was the next part of the exams then the Iwa shinobi was more than ready to showcase his skills. He enjoyed a good fight figured a great showing on the battlefield would easily propel him to the rank of Chunin.

Reaching the top of the stairs the boy would be greeted by... a room. Nowhere near the same as the one he began the maze in, no game table, statues of old, dead leaders, symbols lining the walls, and best of all no torches. Ouritsu now had a deep seeded hatred for torches, oh and pools of water. Thankfully his clothes had began to dry and wouldn't be a problem going forward. The boy noticed that large roots were growing throughout the room, were they in some ruins? Whatever, it didn't matter, he was ready to get things started.

Alas, he wouldn't have too much time to admire the room as the man led him outside to a platform that stood at the base of the largest tree he had ever seen... ever. Tsuchi no kuni wasn't really known for its foliage to begin with, but even Ouritsu knew that he was standing next to an abnormality. A few moments would pass before two more people would show up, one of them being a carbon copy of the guy who had escorted him out of the maze. Clones. The other was one of the genin from earlier. If he remembered correctly the guy was from Kumo. Cloud people. Perhaps one day he'd be able to visit some of the other villages that existed, not that he had any explicit reason to do so but being in Taki had opened his eyes to quite a bit so it wasn't a stretch to think that the same could happen elsewhere.

The man would let them know that the two genin were going to be a team for the next part of the exams and that they'd be starting soon. Hmm, a teamwork element did make sense but to pair up strangers was a very interesting decision. The Kumo shinobi would speak, offering a noticeably mellow greeting. "Where's your excitement? We made it past the first round!" Ouritsu would exclaim doing his best to bring some energy to their duo. It was already awkward enough working with a complete stranger, and being meek around each other would only make things worse. They'd need to be comfortable enough to work with and adapt to each other for... whatever they were about to do.

notes go here • tagged/open • word count

PYXIS ★

[Yoshiko]

Second Exam: Team B Stone & Cloud @ Landing There'd be adequate time to trade words, a few sentence and maybe a little personal preparation like applying medical aid. Afterwards though the man who'd lead them to the platforms would clear his throat. A spoken signal was sent to a receiver in his ear, he'd be informed that everyone was now in position. It'd be time for the second exam, there'd be not a great amount of time. Nothing worthy of stamina recovery, so the drains of the maze would still be in full effect. "Alright, I need both your attention." He'd start as to make sure they were listening. "Above me are three platforms, it's your goal to be the first team to the last platform. Between each platform will be a type of obstacle, it'll be your goal to devise and successfully concur these obstacles in the fastest manner possible. A race between the other teams to be exact, so there's no specific time limit other than the one you set for the other team." He'd explain the goal of the next exam, it was to be a race a race straight up the tree. Probably not the most appealing idea, but it was another stamina draining trial. There was however more than objectives to the race, there'd be rules which the man would go over next. "With that in mind, I'd like to explain the rules of this team race. These yellow boarder lines aren't to be crossed, you've got a lane you're stuck to just like the other teams. All forms of flight are banned for this test on the off chance you have a means to fly. As it's a team race, it's imperative you both make it up the platforms, your race time is based on whoever makes it up last." These were the key rules of the race. "If you have any questions ask them now, as they're will be a minute given to do so, then the race will begin." The man would end his dialogue, as he'd sort of step to the side and gesture to the tree for thought. It'd be looking straight up the trunk one would be able to see what appeared to be another wooden platform a third or so up the tree. Between it and the present platform appeared to be no jutting obstacle. Instead there only appeared to be a vast system of vines tightly clinging to the tree. One might assume it actually for climbing, but someone with medical knowledge would be able to note these vines are poisonous. Though not deadly. SPOILER: Click to show You have one round of posts before the race starts. Try to collaborate everything you want and need to be spoken, so you can manage it into one post each.

[Omori Reiki]

Team B

Yeah, they did, didn't they? Surely someone must have perished in the maze, meaning he didn't do the worst! Now was he supposed to use other people's misery to celebrate himself? Honestly, it didn't matter, he was alive and he needed to keep it that way. "You're right! I just..." He paused for a moment before looking down at the jacket tied around his waist over his stomach. "To put it bluntly, I just got pierced into a moment ago by a boar. This jacket is the only thing preventing me from bleeding out."

Tilting his head to the side, he smiled softly in return to the excitable one's own. "We'll nail this, surely." He added before he then slammed a confident right fist into his left palm. Right, there was someone with him, there were far more options than just throwing his body into danger. "I can take the heat of any monsters and whatnot, I am well-versed in close combat. I can *usually* mitigate physical resistance well." Taijutsu was where he felt the most comfortable. In the worst case scenario, a display of new strength was going to be found through ninjutsu. But the options on that end of the spectrum were limited. Oh, did one forget to introduce himself? "I'm Reiki, by the way. Nice to meet you!" And that's key information!

Okay. Three levels to climb. That was fair enough. Another race, this time with a partner. Even better, a chance to ask questions. If there are any he wanted to have asked, it should be something to assist them. "I do have a question. Is being launched upwards a part of this "No Flight" rule you have provided us?" And that's when a plan would devise. One had to be quick about this. Just because a path was provided didn't mean that it was the correct answer. Creativity had to count for something.

The tree appeared to be ready for them to climb up. Of course, his eyes had to scan it. From the looks of it, nothing seemed that wrong with the tree. Thinking, thinking... Wait... No. NO! Like hell were they going to be touching THAT! Back in the first maze, a similar scenario happened. All that glitters is not gold. Nothing was wrong with climbing up this tree? Like hell there was nothing, Reiki got burned badly for trusting a climb. "I'll let you know one thing, partner. If we start climbing up that tree, we are going to pay hell for it. That's not the way to go." And this was all speculation, but fool a kid twice and it's shame on him. "I took a similar climb in the first maze and ended up covered in cuts. It's best to not trust things that look too easy."

SPOILER: Click to show

Active Abilities

Enhanced Eyesight
The user's eyesight is heavily enhanced, even without the use of the Tennogan. The smallest details could be observed as if it were in front of the user should the distance between them not exceed 30 meters. Peripheral vision also seems as clear as if it were the main sight of focus.

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[Nōhime Ouritsu]

i think you're slipping

i bring you pain, the kind you can't suffer quietly

Well that was certainly a reason to keep one's spirits tempered and it answered a few questions about the maze for the young Iwa genin all at once. Where these people had found enough angry boar to throw in eight peoples worth of mazes was still a mystery but at least the boy hadn't had to deal with them alone... and he had fared better than his new teammate. "Well that's... yikes. I carry a couple medical kits on me, bandages might work a little better than your jacket." He'd reply while rummaging in one of his munition pouches before pulling out a small case. The kit had everything they needed to at least keep the bleeding to a minimum which was about all they had time for since the race was only moments from beginning.

The Kumo shinobi spoke on how he was most comfortable up close and personal in battle, which explained the boar hole, and was both great and not so great news. As a team they were balanced what with Ouritsu being proficient in ninjutsu and genjutsu, but should they make it to the next round and have to fight each other he was going to be a pain to deal with. In addition, the boy was torn on whether he should let his abilities be known for the aforementioned reason. Sure they had to work together now but the Nohime doubted there'd be any more team based tests after this and just letting people know what he was strong --and not strong-- in was risky. But they needed to know who was equipped to do what in this upcoming test. "Good good, I've got some skill in ninjutsu and genjutsu so we're pretty balanced which is good." He'd reply before finally hearing his teammates name. Introductions had been lost in the rush of finally getting out of the maze. "Ouritsu. Likewise."

The man... or second clone, would grab their attention and begin to tell them about the second test. It was a race, similar to the maze, but obviously in a team format this time around, and also like the maze there would be obstacles for them to overcome. They'd have to keep in the yellow lines which meant that avoiding obstacles was going to be pretty impossible, and banning flight was a sure fire way to avoid that... and the whole race as a whole for that matter. If he didn't have a cousin who he had seen fly multiple times before the boy would have been confused by the rule, but it made sense for gamesmanship reasons, and probably not to upset the spectators though they would probably be in awe of a genin being able to fly.

Any who, a blind run to the top wouldn't help considering they both needed to finish around the same time to get a good score. His teammate would ask if being launched counted as flying which caused Ouritsu to raise an eyebrow. What did he have in mind? Taking a gander at the first part of the tree there seemed to be vines that they could either climb or run on. Simple enough, but the Kumo genin was wary. He had somehow come across something similar in the maze which was good enough for the Iwa-nin to believe him. "Hmm well if we can't climb then should we just... walk on top of them? Our shoes should be thick enough to protect us, and I don't really see another way up." The Nohime replied trying to come up with a solution.

notes go here • tagged/open • word count

PYXIS ★

[Yoshiko]

Second Exam: Team B Stone & Cloud @ Landing The man would look to the kumogakure genin and smile, before giving a very flat answer. "No, but there is a sturdy platform." He'd look up to the platform way up high and scratching the back of his neck let off a deep chuckle. "Good luck launching anything that high though." He had no faith in any genin to throw another up such a height, he'd not even question how the boy planned to get himself up afterwards. The amount of chakra that might be wasted this early in the second exam, it greatly amused the man. 'Too bad, I can't tell these kids it only gets worst.' The man would think to himself, as he'd marvel in the kindness of the young genin. They'd keep their family name's to themselves, it was possibly a good tactic for a future exam. The less they knew about each other the better if they were to fight, but this exam was team based and they certainly weren't winning this one on their own. Based solely on the rules presented. Time would pass for the two to plan or bicker, as well as to help make Reiki less a mess. Maybe even free up his jacket. A hand moving to his ear, he'd nod to no one. "Alright, I've been given the word the race begins now!" He'd gesture for the two to start, then in a puff of smoke disappear. Now the two shinobi would only have themselves to figure out this race and succeed at it. SPOILER: Click to show

[Omori Reiki]

Team B

Of course, of course! Who could possibly forget the distance? But the answer confirmed a theory he had in his head. And while the plan he had was possible in case he needed to remain safe, he was lacking a rope. There was some hope for the both of them if they needed to evade if that rope situation was fixed, for there was a safe way to progress if what he believes is true. The goal was to get the both of them up though, so that would slightly hinder the plan. Regardless, a pocket of opportunity was revealed to him. "Thanks. That was all I needed to know." Reiki replied before turning over to his partner."Traps aren't present in the air. No flight and it's advised not to try launching because of... Distance. If there is a way we can remain stationary in the air, we found a safe zone to hide out until the danger passes."

He had to spill every thought like this. Sure, there was a possibility of them fighting later on, but Reiki thought of now. If they didn't even live to see the next part of the exam, what was the point of keeping anything a secret? So he was going to have to put complete faith and grant everything he knew to his partner. But at least that was reciprocated, for medical bandages were offered in turn. How kind... That would greatly increase their odds of survival. If one of them died, the test may as well fail for the other. Selfish reasoning, but that's the outlook of a pessimist. At the end of the day, both did have to return to their villages.

"Thanks. I could use all the help I could get." He replied in turn, placing his arms around his jacket. He'll wait for his partner to get out the medicine kit and prepare himself. If Ouritsu went through with it and prepared the bandages, Reiki would wait for the right moment before letting the jacket go. It will hurt like hell, but it would be worth it! A bleeding stomach should be found quickly thanks to the red that stains the white shirt as well as the added amount to come through once it gets exposed to oxygen.

Ninjutsu and Genjutsu. Okay, so that was easy! Reiki can keep close and provoke the enemies that try to put them in danger, and Ouritsu can put them on illusions to make them run off the platforms or something. Seemed like a stable plan, they were balanced in terms of combat. "Perfect. In that case, you'll do the damage while I keep them at bay. I'll warn you if they are doing severe damage or if they are breaking through my defenses." Making clear plans for the future, they had to expect these scenarios.

Ouritsu's suggestion seemed unsure, which was perfectly understandable. The only way was up. Still... That tree was a climb, and Reiki didn't like climbing so much thanks to that last exam. There had to be a way to remedy this situation without risking either of their health. What could it be... Hm...

At a near instant, his right pointer finger would extend upwards, for an idea has been formed. Right after the race was declared to begin, Reiki would place his hands together. One sign was all he needed as he pressed some chakra out. The same way the man disappeared in a cloud of smoke, a replica of Reiki would form in just the same way right next to him. A shadow clone, which was the least risky way of using chakra and having something trigger traps for them if there are any.

"Your idea makes sense, but I'll have my clone test it out." Reiki replied, the replica nodding it's head in agreement. "We can trail right behind it as long as it's still there. And if it falters or triggers a trap, I'll know about it in time so that we can react." It was better to send out a meatshield made of chakra than either of them. And if there truly is nothing in the way, they both had a reindeer to guide them upwards.

The shadow clone would do just that. It was going to cost a little chakra from Reiki considering both of them had to use the same tree walking technique, but this seemed far more efficient than throwing their bodies at the tree. It would place the chakra towards its feet as it stepped forward before placing its shoe against the tree. Then the other, revealing the technique is being used. Another one. The clone was walking, aiming to take steps, bound to step on at least a few vines in the process. But if Ouritsu was correct and nothing affected the clone, they could follow up right behind it! If that was the case, the clone would confidently dash upwards, ready to take the lead upwards while being observant enough to note anything that might be of interest with what he can see. Though he could theoretically use his fullest speed, only one of the two real genin could keep up, so it would keep a moderate pace upwards. Besides, this meant more control for the shadow clone in case it needs to react to something.

SPOILER: Click to show

Active Abilities

Enhanced Eyesight
The user's eyesight is heavily enhanced, even without the use of the Tennogan. The smallest details could be observed as if it were in front of the user should the distance between them not exceed 30 meters. Peripheral vision also seems as clear as if it were the main sight of focus.

Jutsu:

SPOILER: Click to show

NAME: Kinobori no Waza [Act of Tree Climbing]
RANK: D
CHAKRA USAGE: Very Low
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu [General]
ELEMENT: None
DESCRIPTION:

An advanced genin level technique, it serves as a means to both enhance chakra control when mastered as well as a means to change one's advantages on the battlefield. By applying chakra to the soles of the feet, the shinobi gains the ability to walk and stand on vertical surfaces or even upside down.

NAME: Kage Bunshin no Jutsu [Shadow Clone Technique]
RANK: B
CHAKRA USAGE: Medium
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu [General]
ELEMENT: None
DESCRIPTION:

Kage Bunshin is a Jounin level Ninjutsu technique. The normal Bunshin technique creates a copy of the ninja that lacks any substance. The Kage Bunshin distributes the ninja's chakra evenly among the clones and creates a real copy with form and substance. The clone itself can also utilize any jutsu the original ninja knows, as well as their kekkei genkai. When the clone finally disperses, any new knowledge it has gained along with it's remaining chakra are passed back to the original ninja and any additional clones. This makes Kage Bunshin an excellent training method if the ninja has the chakra capacity and stamina to maintain the Kage Bunshins for an extended period of time. This allows the ninja to essentially reduce the time it takes to train and learn with each clone added. This is especially true when used with Tajuu Kage Bunshin.

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[Nōhime Ouritsu]

i think you're slipping

i bring you pain, the kind you can't suffer quietly

The no flight rule had really struck a cord with his teammate as Reiki couldn't help but to ask about loopholes. Not that it mattered too much considering the distance between themselves and the platform above was far greater than Ouritsu figured either of them could throw the other, even if one of them had some skill in taijutsu and may have been a little stronger. But perhaps the boy was using it as an opportunity to get his mind moving. An odd tactic but to this point the exams had been anything but conventional.

With the go ahead to patch him up, Ouritsu would prepare both gauze and bandages to replace what was surely a blood soaked jacket. It had done a surprisingly decent job at keeping the boy from spilling hisself all over the floor but little else was as good as actual first aid. While he wasn't a trained medic the Nohime had messed around enough with these kits to know how to bandage someone up which was all they needed for right now. Soon after the first aid was applied the older man would signal that the second part of the exam had begun before disappearing in a puff of smoke. Now the fun would begin.

The Iwa-nin wasn't overly fond of giving away his talents to a potential future foe, and he definitely wasn't super thrilled at being the designated damage dealer --well he was but y'know, trying to conserve chakra and all that-- though assuming what appeared before them wasn't too advanced perhaps low level genjutsu would suffice. He truly didn't want to spend what chakra he had left loosing jinton techniques, or giving away the fact that he could perform said techniques in the first place. But being overly selfish in this situation wasn't going to help. An awkward balance if there ever was one.

The focus now was on getting past the vines, and while jinton could have very easily wiped them all out conserving chakra was the name of the game for the time being. At least, Ouritsu thought so. His partner on the other hand decided to halve his chakra and create a shadow clone, an impressive technique for a genin. His plan was to use the clone as bait to test out their theories and warn them of the dangers that were surely lying in wait. Ok, that made sense. "Seems decent enough. I'll pull up the rear, no sense in both of us being right on top of each other when something pops up." The genin would reply as he watched the clone begin to traverse up the vines. It was admittedly a hastily thought up plan that very well may not have worked, and for that reason he didn't want to put himself in harms way from the very beginning, but on the off chance that the layer of chakra plus the shinobi sandals kept the clone safe, Ouritsu would be quick to follow.

SPOILER: Click to show

NAME: Kinobori no Waza [Act of Tree Climbing]
RANK: D
CHAKRA USAGE: Very Low
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu [General]
ELEMENT: None
DESCRIPTION:

An advanced genin level technique, it serves as a means to both enhance chakra control when mastered as well as a means to change one's advantages on the battlefield. By applying chakra to the soles of the feet, the shinobi gains the ability to walk and stand on vertical surfaces or even upside down.

notes go here • tagged/open • word count

PYXIS ★

[Yoshiko]

Second Exam: Team B Stone & Cloud @ 1st Ascension A clone to test the waters was certainly a sound strategy, but a soon to be found unnecessary one. As the clone would traverse upwards without fail, pushing it to pick up pace and the two genin to quickly follow. Those watching could admire the ingenuity and swift pace the two males took to their goal. The distance albeit great wasn't much for two shinobi charging up the tree's trunk. They'd pop through a hole on the platform and find themselves now at the next platform and onto the second obstacle. There'd appear to be steel bands a short distance up the trunk from this platform. Above them was a very dark coal looking surface with an oily cover to it, that'd stretch up most of the way to the next platform. There'd be some weird pipe setup, which looked hooked to a stove. Though the whole setup and contraption would be hard to see due to the distance it was away from both genin. At the top before the next platform a shinobi stood, he'd upon seeing the genin arrive quickly perform hand signs. "KATON!" Would be heard among other words, before a fireball would whoosh down the tree trunk. It'd ignite the strange set up at the top, revealing some form of fire projector. It'd also ignite the path of the tree the shinobi had to climb next. Turning the majority of the path into what looked like a long stretch of burning coals. The fireball wasn't big enough to cover the whole path that the two had to climb, but it was large enough to destroy the platform if both genin were foolish enough to simply watch the destructive force fall upon the structure they stood. Upon further examination of the path ahead, granted the fireball didn't take the shinobi out. The fire projector would appear to change the flame it put forth. It'd stream out an almost bluish flame stretch five feet high for about five seconds, then it'd burst outwards into a brilliant red and orange going upwards of 15 feet, before take a second to seemingly die down back into the concentrated blue flame. SPOILER: Click to show

[Omori Reiki]

Team B

It seems sealed tight, the bandages managed to handle the bleeding well enough despite the pain that was inflicted. Technically, he lost more blood, but now he could securely keep himself from spilling. Just in case, however, he would proceed to wrap the jacket over it again. A double layer, making sure he wasn't losing anything. There was a much higher sense of security as well, giving him the morale and confidence needed to take on this task. "Thanks, Ouritsu. Much appreciated."

Ha ha, sweeeet! They were making good progress at the beginning, charging upwards without hesitation. For this is a race, and their plan seemed rather safe as of currently. It wouldn't take long to pop through the hole of the platform, leaving the three of them to appreciate a slight bit of progress. "All right, that's one down, one to-" Immediately, his eyes would catch a new sight above them. It was difficult for his eyes to see, yes, but they were capable of seeing even at this distance. Their next task, a fight to the next platform, but in what way?

Hugging the platform was an awful idea when the flames have been revealed, and he didn't hesitate to hop back onto the tree. Surface walking again, hell yes. Hopefully Reiki didn't have to warn his partner to hop up with him, for he and the clone would do the exact same thing. Follow by example. But nah, a genjutsu user was smart, so Reiki had doubts he would have trouble getting back onto the tree. Reiki was blessed to have the eyes that he did, or maybe he might have faltered. That platform wasn't safe.

Regardless, he did get a note of something. One, the path in front of them was manipulated, hence the hot coals that are now in front of them. Two, there were tubes. In reality, pipes, but the distance didn't quite confirm that yet. He was going to have to take a closer look. "A path of burning coals, a wall of fire right behind it, and then a shinobi that might engage us right afterwards. This is either the world's hardest exams... Or there is a universal solution to this."

He was pondering to himself, though Ouritsu could hear him. It was not a confirmed theory, yet it also hurt no one either. The thought of using his lightning to endure that hell sounded wasteful. His clone was out, so either of them using it would be short-lived. No, they had to extinguish the flames somehow. There might be a chance of his partner having Suiton jutsu, but not every genin was guaranteed to have that. If he did, it would be a lovely bonus. But the universal answer could not hinge on ninjutsu of that nature.

So he and the clone would step up towards the beginning of the path where the coal was. The air felt heavy with warmth, warning them of what would happen if they stepped inside without thinking this through. But his eyes saw more, for they traveled a long distance and he remembered the contraption. Those "Tubes", they were actually pipes. Pipes to keep the ignition going. See where Reiki was going with this? Maybe they were covered in an attempt to hide their presence, but his eyes did not lie when they were up close. Every detail was so clear, such as the paths where they may travel and whatnot. Even if he only saw a chunk of each pipe, he just had to burst a hole through one area of the pipe to make the whole pipe falter. If they kept the heat of the coals active as well as keep the projector moving, they were going to have to take it down.

Only... Reiki didn't have projectiles. He did say he's good with close combat. Well even items were off the table, and a whole tanto for this seemed impractical.

"Hey Ouritsu, I can see really well. I have... Enhanced Eyesight. I saw pipes before the whole calamity started." The Omori started, the shadow clone taking the time to take the tanto from him. While the both of them were dealing with the gameplan for how this was going to work, the shadow clone was going to be guarding them in case that shinobi on the other end wanted to barrage them.

"Even through the coals and the flames, I can still see pipes that likely keep these active." He explained, looking to point towards one as an example, though it likely looked like nothing when demonstrating. "I lack the projectiles, but if you have any that can push through and cut a hole in pipes like ones towards that direction, we can lighten the heat of the coal to a safe enough temperature to stand. If we are lucky, maybe that thing spitting out fire would go away as well. I'll point where you have to aim."

That was the next plan he had in mind. If Ouritsu had no objectives or alternative suggestions to offer, then perhaps that was what they had to do. So long as the pipes didn't extend beyond thirty meters, Reiki was going to be pointing them out for Ouritsu to take aim and fire.

SPOILER: Click to show

Active Abilities

Enhanced Eyesight
The user's eyesight is heavily enhanced, even without the use of the Tennogan. The smallest details could be observed as if it were in front of the user should the distance between them not exceed 30 meters. Peripheral vision also seems as clear as if it were the main sight of focus.

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[Nōhime Ouritsu]

i think you're slipping

i bring you pain, the kind you can't suffer quietly

Using a clone as bait was admittedly a good idea, but for everything the shadow clone gave in terms of advantages the boy wondered just how much energy his teammate had to keep it conjured? He supposed they'd cross that bridge when the time came but hopefully a sense of dependence wouldn't settle in by then. Meh, Ouritsu wasn't going to complain about an extra set of eyes, ears, and hands to help them through this part of the exam and would follow along the vines as the rear guard.

Upon clearing the vines there'd be a rather snug tunnel that the trio would have to climb through before reaching the next platform. While the tunnel itself didn't seem dangerous the lack of mobility would leave them vulnerable, but seeing as there was no other way up they'd have to take that chance. Once through the tunnel they'd finally reach the next platform. Alright, well that wasn't too bad. The next sight was... weird, to say the least. Some sort of metal contraption that looked completely out of place on a tree. Its surface glistened like there was some kind of liquid on top of it but there didn't seem to be anything dripping off of it.

A single word would echo from far above followed by what looked to be a fireball heading straight for them. "Oh shit." The genin exclaimed before hopping off the platform following Reiki and his clone. In a matter of moments the platform they had just been standing on was obliterated to nothing and the path ahead of them now set ablaze. Well this had turned to hell in a hand basket pretty quick. He listened to Reiki muse over what all lie ahead of them and none of it sounded fun to deal with. The small amount of chakra covering their feet for the tree walking technique probably wouldn't protect them from the hot coals so and they probably couldn't build up enough speed to jump over them either, which left only finding a way to extinguish them.

The Iwa shinobi was at a loss in that particular department. He didn't know the first thing about this contraption let alone how to stop it. Reiki, on the other hand, had somehow been able to see things he couldn't and apparently there were pipes that fed into the burning coals. An interesting ability to say the least. Try as he might Ouritsu wasn't able to see anything of the sort even with direction so he'd have to take his teammates word for it. "Pipes, hm? I can't see 'em but if you say so then alright." He'd reply still squinting to try and make out some sort of pipe.

So the plan was to try and destroy the pipes, or at least part of them, to make the temperature of the burning paths more manageable. Fair enough. Alas, for all his enhanced eyesight the boy didn't have a way to actually cut through said pipes. Ouritsu had his jinton and it probably could have erased the metal if there weren't any special properties to it, but they were a ways off from the pipes and he wasn't sure if his construct would be able to reach, especially with not being able to see where he was aiming at. If the plan didn't work that'd be one less secret that the Nohime would be able to take with him further into the exam. But just as before, if they didn't make it to the next part of the exam in the first place then keeping the air of mystery would be all for naught.

"Umm, yeah, I think I have something." He'd reply while sighing internally. A set of seals would precede the boy clasping his hands together before slowly separating them, a near transparent cube forming in between. After a few moments the cube would grow to a size a little bigger than Ouritsu himself, a condensed orb of jinton chakra sitting in its center. "Just tell me where I need to throw it and we'll see if it works." The genin spoke ready to see if this plan of Reiki's would work. Once the directions were given the Nohime would loose his cube towards the nearest pipe, making sure to cover as much of it as possible before expanding the ball of chakra and hopefully taking out a good chunk of the pipe. He'd start with just the closest pipe to see how it fared, didn't want to waste chakra after all, and as cool as this technique was it took a good bit of chakra to boot so loosing them off one after the other was not something the genin had any plans of doing without absolute certainty.

SPOILER: Click to show

NAME: Jinton: Genkai Hakuri: Kawahaginokei [Dust Release: Detachment of the Primitive World: Flaying]
RANK: C
CHAKRA USAGE: High
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu | Kekkei Tota
ELEMENT: Jinton
DESCRIPTION:
By increasing the containment chakra and limiting the Jinton chakra center the user of this jutsu can create a three dimensional shape (cube, cone, sphere, cylinder, etc) with a small Jinton chakra sphere within its center. Due to the lower than average Jinton chakra within the containment chakra this jutsu has the ability to at most flay a couple of inches of skin at most making the effected area look as if the target had skinned their knee (but over the effected area of course). This jutsu is much weaker and slower than the original jutsu making it less effective but the lower chakra cost makes it a jutsu worth having for young or inexperienced Jinton users.

NAME: Kinobori no Waza [Act of Tree Climbing]
RANK: D
CHAKRA USAGE: Very Low
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu [General]
ELEMENT: None
DESCRIPTION:

An advanced genin level technique, it serves as a means to both enhance chakra control when mastered as well as a means to change one's advantages on the battlefield. By applying chakra to the soles of the feet, the shinobi gains the ability to walk and stand on vertical surfaces or even upside down.

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PYXIS ★

[Yoshiko]

Second Exam: Team B Stone & Cloud @ 1st Ascension The fireballs intentions weren't to test vigorous speed training, it was merely a method to put more pep in the shinobi's step. Both shinobi hopping to the tree's trunk would find themselves able to avoid the fire ball. However after the lose of their platform the two decided not to proceed. The coals were definitely not something a normal person would want to walk upon, but as far as races went this wouldn't deliver them any closer. Looking up to the challenges ahead the Kumogakure genin would suppose the pipes the keeper of the flame, but it'd been the fireball which lit everything. Attacking the pipes was attacking only the very last stretch of challenge, there was only one spot with pipes, it was the fire projector. The Jinton technique would destroy those pipes, but it'd simply turn the wall of fire into a massive bloom of ire. An almost roaring bombfire effect. The flame was however less concentrated, so when it'd normally die down the fire would seem to lower a little. The coals would however not be effected one bit by this change and the visible pipes weren't where the gas was stored, so the fire projector also wouldn't show signs of ceasing. SPOILER: Click to show

[Omori Reiki]

Team B

Right on the money. Or something like that, for that unknown chakra thing in his palm seemed to be a good enough projectile to cut through the pipes. One. Only one pipe. Seems like that coal was not going to lower in heat anytime soon, not while neither of them had anything to put the flames out. Regardless, he was going to watch the results of the pipe being eliminated, hopefully something. And with an anxious set of detailed eyes, he would watch as the flames erupted from the wall, seemingly making everything worse at first. "D-Damn..." Reiki muttered, feeling a slight bit of discouragement.

Only... The flames never promised to stay that way. In fact, the moment it decided to fall, the flames faltered enough for him to feel confident enough for them to jump over it. The pattern of the flames did not change in the slightest, but the appearance of the flames do. At the highest level, they were not going to jump over those flames. At the lowest level, both of them were guaranteed not to have to jump through them at all.

Another detail to note, the enemy was not attacking them from a distance. And for that, the shadow clone would stand down, handing the tanto back towards the original. Still, they were present, so that was something to keep in his mind.

With that, there seemed to be no other way to do this. It was heavy risk, but the flames on the coals were so tiny. Maybe, just maybe... They can run through them.

"I can only think of one way through this..." Reiki announced with absolute uncertainty. "If we can't dispel the flames, we need to rush through them. Which would explain why if we rush too far... We crash into that wall."

Observant eyes that analyzed the rise and fall of the flames, threatening to time their charge well. It was far from the both of them, yet... Yet... At least Reiki could make it. His experience with calculating distance and closing it, he can nail his timing to get through the flames without trouble. In fact, he remembered... Yes, there was one technique he could use to get past this! And if he was correct, then there truly was something she taught him that could save his life.

First, no more wasting chakra. The shadow clone was no longer needed, and the chakra it had remaining would transfer back to his body as it dispelled. It had a decent amount of chakra left, but no new information. Fair enough, he still had plenty of energy kicking within him.

"Get on my back. If this plan doesn't go accordingly, let it be me who falters for coming up with it." He explained, though he didn't lower himself any. To him, he figured it would be a simple hop upwards on his back. And he seemed small enough to be a lightweight, so there was not much to push up from the ground. More about the explanation must be provided, goody. "I'm going to use a technique that will boost us through this. It's risky as hell, but if it works... We'll be brought to the other side of everything."

All or nothing.

---

Determinant:

If Ouritsu agreed with his plan and followed through with his plan. Perhaps not considering the whole pipe thing, but he might also see the wall falter when it is at it's low.

Regardless, it was successful! Now to charge through like he wanted. And if this was a plan bound to fail, then he'll be the one to be consumed by the flames. The path ahead of him was long, body flicker seemed like the only viable option if he wanted to guaranteed that he won't fall through a wall of fire. It was instantaneous, but can he really push himself that far?

No, no no no. This was not the time for doubts. Hell no, he had enough of those. They were holding the team back and progress was dwindling. Now that they decreased their chances of failure, all he had to do was take the risk. With determined locked eyes focused, he took a small moment to recognize the pattern to see what windows of time there was for the smaller flame there would be for them.

He felt tense from the pressure of nailing the timing. It was just their lives on the line, no pressure, Reiki. Wait for it... Wait for it...

Now! The wall is about to go down!

Chakra coated his body to push it's limits towards the maximum with a small level of chakra being drained from his body. Now the wall was down. The both of them seemingly disappeared as he took the quickest and lightest steps on the small flames. Considering their height, his shoes would mitigate the heat as he stepped swiftly on the coals with minimal contact with them. With the Body Flicker's speed, the distance would seem like nothing to cover since his own natural speed was swift without the boost.

If he survived without being coated in flames, the wall would be down with the timing that he took mixed with how swift the technique he used was. From there, it would be a mere jump above the wall and the shinobi before reappearing on the other side. His taijutsu strength, Ouritsu being a lightweight, and the technique enhancing his leg muscles, the jump of the small wall should not be hard. How did he have the reaction speed to match his body speed? His eyes. They were critical, they would make the timing of his jump perfect.

And if he was successful, he would use the last bit of the technique to pass by the shinobi before the both of the make a break for it.

Would he be so lucky?

SPOILER: Click to show

NAME: Shunshin no Jutsu [Body Flicker Technique]
RANK: D
CHAKRA USAGE: Low
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu [General]
ELEMENT: None
DESCRIPTION:

By invigorating one's entire body with chakra, a shinobi can seemingly disappear and reappear in another location faster than most people can see. Often times one's movements are disguised with the use of an extra element, be it a smoke bomb, leaves, water, sand, etc. in order to hide the user's trajectory from those with skilled eyes. Though it mimics teleportation, it is important to remember this jutsu merely boosts the agility of its user. As useful as this technique is, it can only be used 4 times in a battle thread, and any more usages beyond that result in muscle tears in the legs from overexertion

Active Abilities:

SPOILER: Click to show

Enhanced Eyesight
The user's eyesight is heavily enhanced, even without the use of the Tennogan. The smallest details could be observed as if it were in front of the user should the distance between them not exceed 30 meters. Peripheral vision also seems as clear as if it were the main sight of focus.

Quickdraw
The user is far more aware of their surroundings, reflexes being enhanced a mighty amount. On top of this, their body is designed to be more swift and prepare to carry out quick tasks that the normal body may not be able to do in time. As the user learns more about physical combat, their movement speed and attack speed will be even more advanced. Though the difference is barely noticeable at the start, the gap between the user and an average ninja will grow tremendously.

---

Determinant:

Or maybe Ouritsu had an objection for such a daring stunt. If so, this would be the time to make it, for Reiki was sure about doing this.

SPOILER: Click to show

Active Abilities

Enhanced Eyesight
The user's eyesight is heavily enhanced, even without the use of the Tennogan. The smallest details could be observed as if it were in front of the user should the distance between them not exceed 30 meters. Peripheral vision also seems as clear as if it were the main sight of focus.

template by pillow @ nfb

[Nōhime Ouritsu]

i think you're slipping

i bring you pain, the kind you can't suffer quietly

There were a few outcomes that Ouritsu was expecting with his attack. One was that the pipes would be made out a material durable enough to withstand jinton, another was that the coals would lose their power source and peter out in a few moments, but what the boy didn't expect was for the wall of flames on the opposite side of the burning path to be thing that was being fueled by said pipes. Watching the flames sputter erratically annoyed the genin more than it worried him: a pattern could be taken advantage of and cleared, but this.. this was a problem.

He had been afraid of wasting chakra for a plan that wasn't guaranteed to succeed and it looked like that had been the case. The Iwa shinobi wanted to smack his teammate for making him do this stupid stuff, more so himself for believing in a magical pair of eyes. A deep sigh would escape his lips as he wondered what their next plan was going to be. The burning path of coals still lay before them no different than before, and even if they managed to find their way past that there were still at least two more obstacles keeping them from reaching the next platform. Reiki would begin to speak, his mind and mouth moving to figure out their augmented predicament. The duo didn't have a way to put out the fires so he suggested that they just race right past them. But how were they to do that? Even at his fastest Ouritsu would still need to take at least a few steps on the burning path and he'd surely burn himself in the process.

The next words his teammate spoke almost certainly assured that the boy he had been partnered with had a few screws loose. "You want me to do what?" Ouritsu inquired with a less than pleasant look etched onto his face. Two flame fueled contraptions and a possible enemy waiting in the wings and Reiki wanted to have a piggyback ride?! Nope, wasn't going to happen. Ouritsu would sooner exhaust himself destroying the entire path with jinton than trust his wellbeing to a children's game. More words, these an explanation to the plan. While the kid did claim to have experience in taijutsu did he truly have enough strength to carry them both across burning coals and over a wall of flame? It seemed unlikely but other options were in short supply at the moment.

"I don't... This is so dumb... Fine, whatever, you better make it because I really don't feel like dragging your charred corpse up the rest of this tree." He'd reply, mentally fighting back every voice that was telling him not to go along with such an idea. But as Reiki had said, this was his plan and if one were going to take the repercussions for it let it be him, and if something went wrong then Ouritsu would at least have a few moments to make sure at least one of them could clear the path before going back for the other.

Climbing on his partners back was awkward enough, but it was even worse knowing that an entire arena full of people were watching him do it, some of which he'd have to look in the eye back in Iwa after all of this was over. "Alright, let's get this over with quick." He'd speak before the duo whisked away from their starting point in what could honestly only be described as a blur. The genin wasn't used to moving at these speeds and it took just about everything he had to hold on.

notes go here • tagged/open • word count

PYXIS ★