[Mikatakujira Kunikunosaku]

Mikatakujira Hakurai AP™

...

We're no hero inside, we're the monster you need.

Kunikunosaku readthe briefing over and over again. It was a training exercise, that meant non-lethal takedowns if combatis a last resort or for stealth takedowns. Yet, these guards are set on aa kill in sight order. Heavy Weighs the Crown. So that's what we need to say. I will say it's a bit odd sending both EGF users, but, whatever Ryū orders, I'll do. Whatever it takes to get Ni-Ni back and my honor. I don't think he trusts me anymore. Maybe that's why Hakurai, Kami, I relly fucked this up. Kunikunosku finished her inner monologue as she waited for her superior to appear at the village gates.

She closed her eyes as she tried to come up with a plan. Outpost 220 was a fortress so that in itself was going to be difficult; if they had guards watching, were they stationed all day or on a rotational shift, and what was their rotation if they were? What if they got in, where would they go, Kuni can't imagine it was obvious. Once Hakurai arrived, Kuni greeted him and started to head to the location, if her leader wanted to talk on the way, Kunikunosaku would be happy to oblige, but, she'd rather the silence, they were going to need it later.

She did have one thing to say of her own volition. "Remember, no killing, this is just a training exercise, for us at least. And I guess them too." It was the only input she really had while they were running.

TEMPbyAi ♥

SPOILER: Click to show

SA(S) USED:
Jiongu | Earth Grudge Fear

After having to recycle the roots that ended up killing the previous Apprentice just to transfer Jiongu to Kunikunosaku, the mass of black roots recollects most of its abilities from the Apprentice previous while forming new ones with its new master/host, Kunikunosaku. As far as the roots are concerned, like any organism, it desires to feed and survive, all else is not required, nor necessary to function. As for the Symbiotic Relationship benefits Kunikunosaku can control the thread-like roots however she wishes. The thread are quite versatile, acting much like surgical threads they can be used to sew up wounds stretch, or harden for attacks akin to squid tentacles, as well as being equally flexible and significantly dexterous. In time, Kunikunosaku will learn that as long as they keep a heart attached to at least some of the roots making up her body at all times, she is functionally immortal, only dying once all the threads are completely removed from any living hearts, and is unable to be poisoned. Because all of her vital organs and their corresponding systems are gone, Kunikunosaku has no need to breathe, eat, or sleep. The roots are sufficiently maintained by storing hearts that are pumping and living, in turn drawing sustenance from them. These roots also allow Kunikunosaku to utilize the inherent nature of any hearts she adds to their body, allowing them to perform jutsu of that element as if it was their natural affinity.

Symbiotic Relationship: Mutualism

After gaining knowledge on how Jiongu behaves and acts, Kunikunosaku developed a strong bond with the Jiongu entity. Accepting both live in her now; that both are what makes up Kunikunosaku. As a result of this understanding and bond, Jiongu aids her in combat - despite being a small boost. When conditions are met, Jiongu can provide an aided strength boost to Kunikunosaku during combat. It is still relative to her natural strength at the time. While this has no speed benefits, this boost of strength can put her up to par with the max strength of her peers at the same rank level. As she matures and gains new skills and new statuses. So too does her strength grow.

Symbiotic Bond: Strong Mind, Strong Body
As Kunikunosaku developed a stronger relationship with Jiongu, the creature bestowed Kunikunosaku an additional gift. That which is bestowed grants her the body as strong as her will. As long as she has the will to fight and keep pushing forward, Kunikunosaku has attained a sense of a strong body. She can still feel all the pain she receives, however, her will will push through it; literally making her body push through the pain and maintain functionality despite the egregious wounds she may receive. Overwhelming pain at one time or other will breaking input can debilitate the girl's will-driven tolerance to falter to the degree of an average shinobi, opening her up to common pain. It is this will that allows her to force the tendrils/roots/threads to repair themselves from injury or stitch back together. This will increases with her skill as she becomes more confident and driven to satiate both her needs and Jiongu's.

Power of a God:
After a great time learning how to control Jiongu, Kunikunosaku has learned to store chakra in each of her threads so long as they continue to be attached to at least one of her hearts. This extra storage capacity allows the girl to amass greater amounts of chakra within herself, expanding her reserves beyond that of the normal shinobi her rank. As with many other abilities, this ability continues to grow as the girl does through the ranks and years.

JUTSU(S) USED:
N/A
EQUIPMENT USED:
01 | Ikari to Hisan (Continuous)

[Mikatakujira Hakurai]

What you hide in your heart
appears in your eyes.
motanai bijuu commentary Mikatakujira Kunikunosaku	Hakurai did not care much for this mission. It wasn't  really a nuke hunt so he couldn't even go full out on these. It was a shame, fighting was such a cathartic experience. The pleasure of just letting yourself go as you give in to the Hunger and just slaughter meatsacks is so gratifying especially if you get a nice heart to eat at the end. Not all hearts could be assimilated, but the ones that didn't make the cut would still end up making him stronger. He could have some fun with it though. Maybe pick out a guard or two to test out their limits. They hardly would be able to harm either him or his apprentice so perhaps that was the real reason behind their dispatch. He trailed slightly behind the chuunin, dressed up as usual in his Shukan uniform. Compared to Kuni's clothes, he was prectically silent as he moved around.  She seemed to be worried he would be killing his own soldiers, but otherwise didn't  speak much. That was pretty much every interactions they had, yet she still couldn't understand that while being into killing did not mean he lacked control. "Kiddo, just because I give into the Hunger doesn't mean I can't restrain myself. These are our troops, killing them would weaken our borders. Likewise I expect you to give them a good smacking without giving them injuries that might keep them from their job. Should we get bored doing stealth and choose to fight our way through I expect them to hardly be good sport for me and marginally dangerous to you." Hakurai's only remark to her doubts as they reached the outskirts of the Outpost 220.

pyxis ★

[AP™]

OUTPOST EXAMPLE

Upon there arrival to Outpost 220 the two Shinobi would be met with tall walls, in which behind its entrance was a tall tower that could oversea the entire fort. In front of the wall—if the two managed to get eyes on the main entrance—would be two Shinobi guarding it. It might have seemed like a weak move, but the two in front were more than capable of taking out most opposition so it would be in your best interest not to engage.

Along the left side of the walls would be another heavily guarded area, and while the 4 Shinobi watching it wasn't as formidable, together they might be capable of taking on enough enemies to alert the tower, and of course doing that would mean this mission would come to an end faster than it ever began. Fortunately, further down that second entrance was another. One that use to be an entrance, but was blocked off completely with another large wall so that the opposition wouldn't try to get them from behind.

This part of the outpost was still being watched, but only by those who were taking turns sleeping in the living quarters. Six Shinobi to be exact, but their strength can vary depending on who is on shift. Regardless, if Kuni and Harukai push far enough here they'll find it might be much easier to come end from this point than the other two.

[Mikatakujira Kunikunosaku]

Mikatakujira Hakurai AP™

Read notes

We're no hero inside, we're the monster you need.

"You don't need to point out the power gap." A frustrated sigh came from the Chūnin as she shook her head. Maintaining their speed, Kunikunosaku took to the treelines, continuing the rest of the way from a risen position. Upon arrival to the trees watching the outpost, the girl stayed hidden as much as possible, observing the first entrance and taking note of it. "Tsk. There's only two of them but I don't quite trust it." The girl whispered, trying to see what else she could find. She could try to use her hunt jutsu, but to do it might alrt someone of their presence, it was akin to yelling at sensors to sense her...

Shit, they might have sensors stated here. But, if they did, no one looks to be mobilized. Kuni was extremely deep in her thoughts, a trick she learned from Jiongu, unfortunately, it blocks her hearing being so concentrated on her thoughts. Splitting up means more ground is covered but our chance of success decreases... This is a stealth mission after all, reduced party members is less visible... brute-forcing our way in is a real way to fail at this if they can get to the alarms, but it looks so open from here, someone will see us.

The Chūnin just couldn't see a viable entry point from here, it just looks too easy. Of course, this was only the first entrance. She was certain being in the view of that giant tower easily meant it had a bell or gong-like alarm. Kuni blinked, signifying she was done in her thoughts. "I think I have an idea." Kuni stayed close to the shadows, trying to remember the entrances. Then dashing them out. "I'm heading right, see if there's a hole in the walls, an open window. Something. You can join me or if you have a better idea, you can pursue that."

The girl stated, suggesting a possible distraction. She didn't even check if Hakurai was still with her, she just figured he would unless he spoke otherwise. "If not, I'll meet you at the 3rd wall, I think they're doing construction there. I mean, the opposite side if this place has an even amount of outer walls." And so, she would move out. Scanning the right side for an opening, if there was one, she'd try observing it to see if it was safe, if not, she'd move all the way to the opposite side, trying the find the new wall.

TEMPbyAi ♥

SPOILER: Click to show

SA(S) USED:
Jiongu | Earth Grudge Fear

After having to recycle the roots that ended up killing the previous Apprentice just to transfer Jiongu to Kunikunosaku, the mass of black roots recollects most of its abilities from the Apprentice previous while forming new ones with its new master/host, Kunikunosaku. As far as the roots are concerned, like any organism, it desires to feed and survive, all else is not required, nor necessary to function. As for the Symbiotic Relationship benefits Kunikunosaku can control the thread-like roots however she wishes. The thread are quite versatile, acting much like surgical threads they can be used to sew up wounds stretch, or harden for attacks akin to squid tentacles, as well as being equally flexible and significantly dexterous. In time, Kunikunosaku will learn that as long as they keep a heart attached to at least some of the roots making up her body at all times, she is functionally immortal, only dying once all the threads are completely removed from any living hearts, and is unable to be poisoned. Because all of her vital organs and their corresponding systems are gone, Kunikunosaku has no need to breathe, eat, or sleep. The roots are sufficiently maintained by storing hearts that are pumping and living, in turn drawing sustenance from them. These roots also allow Kunikunosaku to utilize the inherent nature of any hearts she adds to their body, allowing them to perform jutsu of that element as if it was their natural affinity.

Symbiotic Relationship: Mutualism

After gaining knowledge on how Jiongu behaves and acts, Kunikunosaku developed a strong bond with the Jiongu entity. Accepting both live in her now; that both are what makes up Kunikunosaku. As a result of this understanding and bond, Jiongu aids her in combat - despite being a small boost. When conditions are met, Jiongu can provide an aided strength boost to Kunikunosaku during combat. It is still relative to her natural strength at the time. While this has no speed benefits, this boost of strength can put her up to par with the max strength of her peers at the same rank level. As she matures and gains new skills and new statuses. So too does her strength grow.

Symbiotic Bond: Strong Mind, Strong Body
As Kunikunosaku developed a stronger relationship with Jiongu, the creature bestowed Kunikunosaku an additional gift. That which is bestowed grants her the body as strong as her will. As long as she has the will to fight and keep pushing forward, Kunikunosaku has attained a sense of a strong body. She can still feel all the pain she receives, however, her will will push through it; literally making her body push through the pain and maintain functionality despite the egregious wounds she may receive. Overwhelming pain at one time or other will breaking input can debilitate the girl's will-driven tolerance to falter to the degree of an average shinobi, opening her up to common pain. It is this will that allows her to force the tendrils/roots/threads to repair themselves from injury or stitch back together. This will increases with her skill as she becomes more confident and driven to satiate both her needs and Jiongu's.

Power of a God:
After a great time learning how to control Jiongu, Kunikunosaku has learned to store chakra in each of her threads so long as they continue to be attached to at least one of her hearts. This extra storage capacity allows the girl to amass greater amounts of chakra within herself, expanding her reserves beyond that of the normal shinobi her rank. As with many other abilities, this ability continues to grow as the girl does through the ranks and years.

JUTSU(S) USED:
N/A
EQUIPMENT USED:
01 | Ikari to Hisan (Continuous)

[Mikatakujira Hakurai]

What you hide in your heart
appears in your eyes.
motanai bijuu commentary Mikatakujira Kunikunosaku AP™	Hakurai was mostly interest in seeing how much Kuni had grown since her promotion. This was the first mission where he could see first hand what she was up to. "Still much of a glass half empty uh?" He chimed, scanning the outpost and pretty much understanding their position relative to their goal. He was on the verge of proposing a plan, but it seemed that his student was already on his same page. Still, there was much about the security she probably wasn't privvy to. "It's not about the number of patrollers, but who." He corrected. "If I remember my facts correctly, there could be two of my operatives undercover here. Outside them, I don't think the others would be able to stop us. Even then, we should expect our goal to be heavily guarded." Her plan of using their special bodies to slip into cracks wasn't bad though. If anything, she seemed to be well aware of what they could do. "You know, I am almost tempted to use this mission to see if you're Shukan material." Hakurai commented. "Time to play team leader, Kuni. I will follow your lead, let me see how you handle infiltration. Unless of course, you have other orders for me?"

pyxis ★

[AP™]

FIRST REFERENCE OUTPOST PICTURE
SECOND OUTPOST REFERENCE PICTURE

Kuni wouldn't find any openings on any of the sides of the wall unfortunately. Taki did well to keep this post as fortified as possible, and even if there were some faults with the wall it wouldn't be deep enough for any of them to slip through using their special abilities. The only option left based on suggestion from Kuni would be the back of the outpost which had a new wall covering an old entrance to the fort.

Once the two got there they would spot 2 guards up along the first corner of the wall. On the newly reinforced wall there would be another two on guard. Unless the two tried sneaking around those walls would they see the other 2 guards on the other side. Kuni without use of the right skill might have some issues getting through them and inside of the via climbing as the village intended, but Harukai might be able to give Kuni a hand by possibly taking advantage of their ability to move in silence to maybe create an opening for the two to get in?

Success could ultimately lead a possible easy path to getting to their destination without being spotted, but, if at least one of them is spotted then the guards in the back of the post would have all the necessary time to alert the post of intruding making getting through much harder.

SN: Use second reference for red markings on where the guards are being posted.

[Mikatakujira Kunikunosaku]

Mikatakujira Hakurai AP™

Be very, very quiet!

We're no hero inside, we're the monster you need.

Damn, nothing! Kuni thought as she raced through the possible right walls, in all fairness, she should have expected better. Her home country was no pushover, moreso, this outpost was nothing to mess with. Turning thee corner, Kuni "hugged" a tree, peering over just enough to scan the area yet, hopefully not be seen. "I see two guards per posting, I think I see about five or six postings... These guys are definitely scattered to ring an alert if something's amiss. A decoy would be useful but most of my tricks might put the base on high alert."

Kunikunosaku cracked a small smile upon seeing a chance. "Where the wall pushes out, they have a posting right before the dip and nothing a small ways apart. I say we go into that corner room. I see no readily available entrance other than that. It looks like the beginning of a shift but I can't make it out, so we move now!" As Kuni finished, her form unstitched itself to a black serpent, sliding down the tree, it slid from foliage shadow to foliage, reaching the wall hopefully in relative cover. In an attempt to exert her full control, Kunikunosaku tried scaling the wall in her serpent form in tandem with tree climbing.

Hopefully, the form reduced visibility enough to not be seen. And if the girl got lucky, there either would be an opening or a balcony to slither onto, the serpent quickly moving with an unnatural silence to a dark cover, more than likely under a table, a chair, or up on top a bookshelf. Once in, the first thing the girl would look for are vents, if there were small openings, Kuni would try to squeeze into them, regardless of where they'd lead.

In the event she had no luck there, the black serpent will be forced to use the cover of objects to slither across the second hall, hopefully finding a clean way through without alerting anyone as she would descend into the corner of what would be the residential area.

TEMPbyAi ♥

SPOILER: Click to show

SA(S) USED:
Jiongu | Earth Grudge Fear

After having to recycle the roots that ended up killing the previous Apprentice just to transfer Jiongu to Kunikunosaku, the mass of black roots recollects most of its abilities from the Apprentice previous while forming new ones with its new master/host, Kunikunosaku. As far as the roots are concerned, like any organism, it desires to feed and survive, all else is not required, nor necessary to function. As for the Symbiotic Relationship benefits Kunikunosaku can control the thread-like roots however she wishes. The thread are quite versatile, acting much like surgical threads they can be used to sew up wounds stretch, or harden for attacks akin to squid tentacles, as well as being equally flexible and significantly dexterous. In time, Kunikunosaku will learn that as long as they keep a heart attached to at least some of the roots making up her body at all times, she is functionally immortal, only dying once all the threads are completely removed from any living hearts, and is unable to be poisoned. Because all of her vital organs and their corresponding systems are gone, Kunikunosaku has no need to breathe, eat, or sleep. The roots are sufficiently maintained by storing hearts that are pumping and living, in turn drawing sustenance from them. These roots also allow Kunikunosaku to utilize the inherent nature of any hearts she adds to their body, allowing them to perform jutsu of that element as if it was their natural affinity.

Symbiotic Relationship: Mutualism

After gaining knowledge on how Jiongu behaves and acts, Kunikunosaku developed a strong bond with the Jiongu entity. Accepting both live in her now; that both are what makes up Kunikunosaku. As a result of this understanding and bond, Jiongu aids her in combat - despite being a small boost. When conditions are met, Jiongu can provide an aided strength boost to Kunikunosaku during combat. It is still relative to her natural strength at the time. While this has no speed benefits, this boost of strength can put her up to par with the max strength of her peers at the same rank level. As she matures and gains new skills and new statuses. So too does her strength grow.

Symbiotic Bond: Strong Mind, Strong Body
As Kunikunosaku developed a stronger relationship with Jiongu, the creature bestowed Kunikunosaku an additional gift. That which is bestowed grants her the body as strong as her will. As long as she has the will to fight and keep pushing forward, Kunikunosaku has attained a sense of a strong body. She can still feel all the pain she receives, however, her will will push through it; literally making her body push through the pain and maintain functionality despite the egregious wounds she may receive. Overwhelming pain at one time or other will breaking input can debilitate the girl's will-driven tolerance to falter to the degree of an average shinobi, opening her up to common pain. It is this will that allows her to force the tendrils/roots/threads to repair themselves from injury or stitch back together. This will increases with her skill as she becomes more confident and driven to satiate both her needs and Jiongu's.

Power of a God:
After a great time learning how to control Jiongu, Kunikunosaku has learned to store chakra in each of her threads so long as they continue to be attached to at least one of her hearts. This extra storage capacity allows the girl to amass greater amounts of chakra within herself, expanding her reserves beyond that of the normal shinobi her rank. As with many other abilities, this ability continues to grow as the girl does through the ranks and years.

JUTSU(S) USED:
NAME: Jigoku Hebi [Hellish Serpent ]
RANK: C.
CHAKRA USAGE: Low, Very Low to Maintain
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu
ELEMENT: --
HANDSEALS: --
TRIGGER: --
DESCRIPTION:

This technique allows the user to become also fluid with their movements. Their skin and body structure becomes serpentine and detaches as they become almost a slithering mass of tendrils. This allows them to become flatter and more nimble. They are able to move as an otherworldly serpent-like creature. In this form, the user is able to move vertically along surfaces and swim quickly. As well, the user can separate their hearts from their body to cover more ground. While this technique enhances the user's stealth it does not prevent them from being detected from a keen eye or other types of tracking.

NAME: Kinobori no Waza [Act of Tree Climbing]
RANK: D
CHAKRA USAGE: Very Low [Continuous]
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.

EQUIPMENT USED:
01 | Ikari to Hisan (Continuous)

[Mikatakujira Hakurai]

What you hide in your heart
appears in your eyes.
motanai bijuu commentary Mikatakujira Kunikunosaku AP™	Hakurai did not have much to add to the situation at hand. He was rather curious to see how his pupil dealt with the situation herself. So he would limit himself to a simple reply before following close beind. "Usually there are multiple ways to attack a position like this. Nice to see the boys not slacking though." He chimed, remaining in the general vicinity of the area Kuni was scanning for threats. Weaving a sting of seals, Hakurai's body unravelled into a ball of threads as he followed Kuni to the wall she had decided to use for their infiltration. With him having a less defined form than a snake, he could easily climb up the wall without replying on the tree for added grip. Even still, he was always following close behind. Kuni was the pointman in this mission so as much as he was used to lead he would have to stand back and let the fresh chuunin deal with things her own way. That said, the Shukan captain would remain with all of his senses at high alert just in case someone decided to drop in on them by chance. To be on the safe side, the Mikatakujira used his parasite's hunger for hearts to better locate and keep track of the other shinobi around camp.

pyxis ★

[AP™]

Temporary Fortune would come to the Shinobi as a result of their unique abilities. Because their talents were only unique to them the chance that someone would be able to spot them in the dark of night wouldn't be as likely. Especially in an area that was lightly guarded due to its priority being its ability to alert the more heavily guarded areas. That of course didn't mean they would be able to get across without the slightest bit of suspension.

One of the guards on the outskirts of the wall would notice something move, but initially wouldn't respond to it as it could have been a number of things, including a random shadow. After a second thought the guard would move over to where the saw the shadowy figure. Fortunately by then Kuni and Hakurai would have already gone over the wall, but that didn't mean they were in the clear just yet. They would now find themselves in the living quarters of the area, and that meant a number of random Shinobi could be found lurking on every corner.

Most were hanging out casually with others trying to enjoy what time they were given to relax before resting. Others would probably be training, and the rest more than likely would be moving in and out of the living quarters. Getting spotted here would more than likely end any chance the two would have of getting to the final destination if not careful.

[Mikatakujira Kunikunosaku]

Mikatakujira Hakurai AP™

...

We're no hero inside, we're the monster you need.

Getting up and over proved far more easier than Kuni could have predicted. Finding her straight scaling the wall downward, the girl would find herself in the residential district of the compound/outpost. It felt too good for comfort though, nothing in her recollection was ever simple as it seemed. The Kunoichi's guard was raised to the umpteenth level as she scanned for anyone nearby. She could simply be over paranoid but, she could also be observant of what's really going on. Catching appearances of some guards, even in the residential district, the black serpent moved in between houses, hopefully away from peering eyes. Kunikunosaku left her serpentine form to only weave a few quick seals, poofing into one of the guards she saw earlier. Please don't leave your house. Kuni thought as she moved to walk through the street.

Looking around, Kuni took in what she heard, hopefully, there would be some indication of where her target was or will be. Regardless of what she heard, she attempted to assimilate in some patrol, reduce the chance of sticking out like a sore thumb. Kuni was worried if conversed to, that might reveal her secret. However, even if then, as long as everyone was taken out, she was ok, right? At this point in the mission, Kunikunosaku had already forgotten about Hakurai, having only focused on her mission.

Regardless, she was already bored of stealth, however, the vital importance of it was a necessary evil. Even in this form, she held close to her monotone voice, it would definitely aid in acting tired.

TEMPbyAi ♥

SPOILER: Click to show

SA(S) USED:
Jiongu | Earth Grudge Fear

After having to recycle the roots that ended up killing the previous Apprentice just to transfer Jiongu to Kunikunosaku, the mass of black roots recollects most of its abilities from the Apprentice previous while forming new ones with its new master/host, Kunikunosaku. As far as the roots are concerned, like any organism, it desires to feed and survive, all else is not required, nor necessary to function. As for the Symbiotic Relationship benefits Kunikunosaku can control the thread-like roots however she wishes. The thread are quite versatile, acting much like surgical threads they can be used to sew up wounds stretch, or harden for attacks akin to squid tentacles, as well as being equally flexible and significantly dexterous. In time, Kunikunosaku will learn that as long as they keep a heart attached to at least some of the roots making up her body at all times, she is functionally immortal, only dying once all the threads are completely removed from any living hearts, and is unable to be poisoned. Because all of her vital organs and their corresponding systems are gone, Kunikunosaku has no need to breathe, eat, or sleep. The roots are sufficiently maintained by storing hearts that are pumping and living, in turn drawing sustenance from them. These roots also allow Kunikunosaku to utilize the inherent nature of any hearts she adds to their body, allowing them to perform jutsu of that element as if it was their natural affinity.

Symbiotic Relationship: Mutualism

After gaining knowledge on how Jiongu behaves and acts, Kunikunosaku developed a strong bond with the Jiongu entity. Accepting both live in her now; that both are what makes up Kunikunosaku. As a result of this understanding and bond, Jiongu aids her in combat - despite being a small boost. When conditions are met, Jiongu can provide an aided strength boost to Kunikunosaku during combat. It is still relative to her natural strength at the time. While this has no speed benefits, this boost of strength can put her up to par with the max strength of her peers at the same rank level. As she matures and gains new skills and new statuses. So too does her strength grow.

Symbiotic Bond: Strong Mind, Strong Body
As Kunikunosaku developed a stronger relationship with Jiongu, the creature bestowed Kunikunosaku an additional gift. That which is bestowed grants her the body as strong as her will. As long as she has the will to fight and keep pushing forward, Kunikunosaku has attained a sense of a strong body. She can still feel all the pain she receives, however, her will will push through it; literally making her body push through the pain and maintain functionality despite the egregious wounds she may receive. Overwhelming pain at one time or other will breaking input can debilitate the girl's will-driven tolerance to falter to the degree of an average shinobi, opening her up to common pain. It is this will that allows her to force the tendrils/roots/threads to repair themselves from injury or stitch back together. This will increases with her skill as she becomes more confident and driven to satiate both her needs and Jiongu's.

Power of a God:
After a great time learning how to control Jiongu, Kunikunosaku has learned to store chakra in each of her threads so long as they continue to be attached to at least one of her hearts. This extra storage capacity allows the girl to amass greater amounts of chakra within herself, expanding her reserves beyond that of the normal shinobi her rank. As with many other abilities, this ability continues to grow as the girl does through the ranks and years.

JUTSU(S) USED:
NAME: Henge no Jutsu [Transformation Technique]
RANK: E
CHAKRA USAGE: Very Low [Continuous]
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu [General]
ELEMENT: None
HANDSEALS: 3
DESCRIPTION:
After performing the necessary hand seals, the user transforms their appearance to become that of another person, animal or even an inanimate object. This is considered one of the most advanced academy techniques, as it requires a constant emission of chakra as well as constant mental focus to maintain the transformation. Shinobi are limited to transforming into objects roughly their own size, preventing them from turning into a fly while being able to carry items far greater than their transformed state.

EQUIPMENT USED:
01 | Ikari to Hisan (Continuous)

[Mikatakujira Hakurai]

What you hide in your heart
appears in your eyes.
motanai bijuu commentary Mikatakujira Kunikunosaku AP™	Hakurai would take a slightly different approach to things than Kuni. While the chuunin was going about on her own thing, the Shukan leader would put his Silent Killing training coupled with his current fluid form to completely disappear from view, be it  by sound or sight. "Well well...standard henge jutsu for you then? Interesting." Hakurai noted as he watched Kuni turn into someone else and disappear into a patrol. Risky, considered she could turn into a snake and could simply play the part of the animal if she even got spotted. Nevertheless, she was going off standard training, which wasn't too bad of a thing. He instead opted to remain low and slither between one house and the next, sometimes under them, sometimes climbing to the roof through the various drains and whatnot, using the geometry of the area to move deeper into the outpost and his parasite's senses towards living beings to notify him if people were coming. He had all the time in the world to do things. Waiting until he was sure no one was around was going to be no problem at all.

pyxis ★

[AP™]

FIRST REFERENCE OUTPOST PICTURE
SECOND OUTPOST REFERENCE PICTURE
THIRD REFERENCE OUTPOST PICTURE

Kuni's plan would work just as she hoped it would, staying in her slithering form just long enough not to be detected. Afterward Kuni would make the smart move to henge into one of the nearby guards so that she could get by. If used properly she would find herself able to get to the outskirts of the wall leading into the middle of the outpost. Of course there was a question of whether or not she would try the same trick twice, or if she would actually go through the open entrance as the person she transform into.

Hakurai would share the same success that Kuni had upon entrance into the outpost. The only difference being that they opted to stay in serpent like form. This almost proves to get them caught as despite there not being many guards everyone here is still always keeping their eyes open.

"Hey, did anyone just see that snake go by?"

"Snakes?! Well, if you did I'm not getting it!"

"Shh! I ain't either, lets wait until someone else sees it or somethin."

Hakurai would do well going forward to keep hidden in the shadows, and was smart to take more intellectual routes like going underneath the building, and even getting through to the roof through various drains. In the end Harukai would reach the same conclusion as Kuni. Where they going to climb over the other wall to get to the center of the outpost, or would they take the open entrance?

[Mikatakujira Kunikunosaku]

Mikatakujira Hakurai AP™

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We're no hero inside, we're the monster you need.

Now came the hard part, actually playing the part. Kunikunosaku did as best as she could to mimic how the patrol moved without looking so painfully obvious. If the attempt went well, and it seemingly did, the group began to disperse to rotate positions. Or that was what she hoped. It seemed like a free travel from her, so Kuni relaxed a tiny bit from mimicking she was actually patrolling. No need for tricks here, let's see how far I can go as... whatever the hell this person's name is. The henged Kuni walked through the open entrance, keeping an eye and ear out for any interception or slips of tongue for a location.

The girl wasn't certain what would happen or who would appear. All she knew if another patrol formed, she'd have to join it. Which is quite a disappointment to her but what made shinobi actually shinobi is by using tricks and deception. Combat was her bread and butter, however, relying on that alone can only get someone so far, infiltration and espionage, despite being a bore, were some of the greatest shinobi tools. Doing that can certainly help the hunter she wished to be, an apex predator. Kuni had always seen herself as an alpha predator, and while there were to be no deaths, she knew her training was more in line with that of an assassin, and the best ones don't get caught.

TEMPbyAi ♥

SPOILER: Click to show

SA(S) USED:
Jiongu | Earth Grudge Fear

After having to recycle the roots that ended up killing the previous Apprentice just to transfer Jiongu to Kunikunosaku, the mass of black roots recollects most of its abilities from the Apprentice previous while forming new ones with its new master/host, Kunikunosaku. As far as the roots are concerned, like any organism, it desires to feed and survive, all else is not required, nor necessary to function. As for the Symbiotic Relationship benefits Kunikunosaku can control the thread-like roots however she wishes. The thread are quite versatile, acting much like surgical threads they can be used to sew up wounds stretch, or harden for attacks akin to squid tentacles, as well as being equally flexible and significantly dexterous. In time, Kunikunosaku will learn that as long as they keep a heart attached to at least some of the roots making up her body at all times, she is functionally immortal, only dying once all the threads are completely removed from any living hearts, and is unable to be poisoned. Because all of her vital organs and their corresponding systems are gone, Kunikunosaku has no need to breathe, eat, or sleep. The roots are sufficiently maintained by storing hearts that are pumping and living, in turn drawing sustenance from them. These roots also allow Kunikunosaku to utilize the inherent nature of any hearts she adds to their body, allowing them to perform jutsu of that element as if it was their natural affinity.

Symbiotic Relationship: Mutualism

After gaining knowledge on how Jiongu behaves and acts, Kunikunosaku developed a strong bond with the Jiongu entity. Accepting both live in her now; that both are what makes up Kunikunosaku. As a result of this understanding and bond, Jiongu aids her in combat - despite being a small boost. When conditions are met, Jiongu can provide an aided strength boost to Kunikunosaku during combat. It is still relative to her natural strength at the time. While this has no speed benefits, this boost of strength can put her up to par with the max strength of her peers at the same rank level. As she matures and gains new skills and new statuses. So too does her strength grow.

Symbiotic Bond: Strong Mind, Strong Body
As Kunikunosaku developed a stronger relationship with Jiongu, the creature bestowed Kunikunosaku an additional gift. That which is bestowed grants her the body as strong as her will. As long as she has the will to fight and keep pushing forward, Kunikunosaku has attained a sense of a strong body. She can still feel all the pain she receives, however, her will will push through it; literally making her body push through the pain and maintain functionality despite the egregious wounds she may receive. Overwhelming pain at one time or other will breaking input can debilitate the girl's will-driven tolerance to falter to the degree of an average shinobi, opening her up to common pain. It is this will that allows her to force the tendrils/roots/threads to repair themselves from injury or stitch back together. This will increases with her skill as she becomes more confident and driven to satiate both her needs and Jiongu's.

Power of a God:
After a great time learning how to control Jiongu, Kunikunosaku has learned to store chakra in each of her threads so long as they continue to be attached to at least one of her hearts. This extra storage capacity allows the girl to amass greater amounts of chakra within herself, expanding her reserves beyond that of the normal shinobi her rank. As with many other abilities, this ability continues to grow as the girl does through the ranks and years.

Cursed Master:

As a reward for attaining a greater deal of control over her symbiotic relationship with Jiongu, Kunikunosaku acquired the keys to the gate of mastering her abilities. This new boon allows Kunikunosaku to double the impact of her EGF ninjutsu. In addition, a passive boon is the ability to completely negate Jiongu's manipulation to consume more hearts. These boons together allow Kuni to further manipulate Jiongu against its basic natures, improving her unique utilization. While still young and unrefined, the ability is expected to grow as their bond deepens to even further levels.

JUTSU(S) USED:
N/A
EQUIPMENT USED:
01 | Ikari to Hisan (Continuous)

[Mikatakujira Hakurai]

What you hide in your heart
appears in your eyes.
motanai bijuu commentary Mikatakujira Kunikunosaku AP™	Hakurai was not at an impasse. He would need to choose carefully how to go about his next obstacle, but that did not forbid the captain of the Shukan force to keep tabs on his associate. Little Kuni was going for a much more direct route, which was the most incospicuous all things considered but also the most predictable. While he was confident her skills in infiltration were up to spec, he always liked to cover possible failure conditions. "Alright little one...let's see how you deal with this." He thought. For now, he would remain as concealed as possible, yet in the general area around his ally. If anything came up, being able to subdue someone without being seeing or heard was exactly his strongsuit. He much rather go for open combat, but his preference at this point was not possible given mission standards. For now, he would remain in a supportive role to Kunikunosaku while taking the more unorthodox route. No reason to intervene yet though. Perhaps following her faux patrolling would allow him to spot an opening in the rounds he could exploit...and remember to correct at a later date.

pyxis ★