[Jinmenshi Io]

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[attr="class","carvecount"]~300 WORDS

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[attr="class","carvetitle"]Peaches

[attr="class","carvedesc"]Peaches peaches peaches peaches.

[attr="class","carvenotes"]Muramasa Uemon Kota
Arrives using the migration jutsu. Finds a camp with no people present, it could be yours?

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How do you describe the indescribable? It was almost like experiencing death: losing touch, sight, and mind. Then in the darkness you’re reborn and swimming in a state of pure deprivation, navigating point to point through following the tiniest vibrations of fungus in the soil. Holding onto the intention to go one way or another, while staving off the feeling of giving in to the quiet and drowning in the earth. Then, before that moment, finding your will to live again and all of your sensations beginning to return as you reconstitute into once more into a— human?

Drawing in desperate breaths, Io pulled himself up from the ground. His senses still dull, and the light shining through the forest canopy above him piercing his reborn eyes. As he moved upwards, he could feel the reformation of his legs, and was relieved to feel his feet again as they stepped onto the ground.

Brushing some dirt from his copper hair and clothes, he took a moment to smell the air around him. Smoke and water were the scents that found him. His ears guided him to the flow of a nearby river channel with a rocky bed of gray stone along its flanks. The smoke smell wasn’t so readily apparent, but when he walked into the treeline it grew stronger. What he finally found were a few little tents resting near a campfire that had been recently smothered.

"Must be some travelers around here,” he said out loud. "I must have missed lunch. Too bad.”

He stopped and stood at the edge of the camp, listening for any signs of activity. Bandits were always a potential problem to look out for, if they thought they had an easy target. Travelers on the road though often lead to new adventures and friendships, so Io was never too weary to say hello.

[attr="class","carvecredit"]IVYLEAF33

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[Muramasa Uemon]

a meeting of chance

---

In a clearing close to camp, a narrow bundle wrapped in cloth was presented. "Happy birthday, kid." The smith said with a faint smile, crouching down to eye-level. He nodded to the boy to open it. "Sorry it's a little late."

Today they were in the countryside. With a deadline placed on their stay, they only had a little while longer remaining in Amegakure. The road he knew well, but if they were to travel, Kota needed to be able to fend for himself. Better than he already could. To that end he forged the child a single wakizashi. Simple. Sturdy. Small.

Perfect for him... or so he hoped. Its saya and ito were both white. The samé covering the hilt beneath the silk wrapping a tannish color. Kiku gata the style of its tsuba. A flower of silvered iron. A few wild trees etched into its face. No masterwork but it was delicately crafted. Made with an artists' passion. Some of the last he had left.

"It should be just the right size for you." He said quietly, watching for the boy's reaction. "Hope you like it." Once it was opened, it was time to prepare. There was work that needed to be done. And sooner rather than later. His own blade hung at his left side for once in the traditional style. Taking a second to glance at Kota, he pointed to his belt opposite his dominant hand. "Tie it right here." He said, showing the boy his own setup. "Like this."

Which is what they were preparing for when a sharp ping entered his head. Instantly the swordsmith tensed up. Scanning the treeline. "We're not alone..." He murmured quietly, keeping an eye out. "Stay close."

Resting his left hand on the hilt of his sword, he stood from his crouched position. Slowly making his way back towards camp. The signature may have just been a fellow traveler... but one could never be too careful. "We haven't eaten just yet." His response as he stopped at the opposite edge of camp from the stranger. "Hello."

It was a curt greeting. Not hostile... but not exactly warm either. As per usual, his guard was up.

---

SPOILER: Click to show

SPECIAL ABILITIES:

KASHIRA-WARI・首割り - ENHANCED CHAKRA CONTROL
Puppeteers must maintain expert control over their wide selection of puppets, and so too must a shinobi with their chakra. Necessary for his Puppet Ninjutsu and applicable to his other techniques, Uemon has trained extensively in order to mitigate the amount of chakra he uses with his jutsu. Compensating for his average chakra reserves this allows him to stay in the fight that much longer.

TSUKURIMONO・作り物 - INTELLIGENCE
Stage and setting can make or break a performance. A director needs vigilance and flexibility to ensure all the moving parts of a play go off without a hitch. A learned strategist with a quick mind, Uemon is always observing even in the midst of combat. This allows for him to find gaps and weaknesses in his opponent's techniques easier than some, and allows him to formulate strategies and deceptions to take advantage of these shortcomings. A knack for tactics cues him on which approach works best depending on his target.

ASHIZUKAI・足遣い - SPEED
Operating the legs of a puppet requires dexterity and agility. Much like moving one's own body. As a child in Tetsu no Kuni Uemon trained in Jujitsu and Kenjutsu, finding his aptitude for speed rather than strength. Honed after years on the road with his mentors, Uemon is surprisingly light on his feet and his hand-to-hand strikes are faster than most expect. Able to strike and weave with deft swiftness he is capable of holding his own against Taijutsu specialists of his rank and outright overwhelming those of lower ranks in terms of speed.

SHOMEI・署名 - SENSOR TYPE (Currently Training)
Lighting is a crucial part of any play. Identifying the actors and drawing focus to them in the dark. With much training Uemon has become a Sensor Type, able to detect and hone in on chakra signatures akin to a sixth sense of sorts. A useful tool when it comes to tracking or surveillance. As of now, he is capable of passively sensing chakra up to one hundred meters from his body, or one kilometer if actively searching. This also allows him to more efficiently utilize his puppets without needing a direct line of sight to his targets. Knowing the placement of actors on stage at all times is essential.

[Kota]

The sun will be guiding you They're dying to stop you This race is a prophecy Break out from society Kota and Muramasa were collecting sticks, or, at least, Kota was pretty sure that's why they had left the camp they'd set up for the day. Kota was collecting sticks, at least, since they'd probably--definitely--be useful later on. And he had a good eye for good sticks, too. Though, the young boy stopped following after Muramasa when they came to a clearing, and the older of the duo knelt down to present him with a wrapped offering.     Curiously, the boy set down his bundle of collected sticks when Muramasa wished him a happy birthday--even if it was a little late. Kota's brown eyes lit up with recognition of the sentiment-- "A gift? For me?" Muramasa had given Kota the impression, before, that something like this could have been expected--but, still, it wasn't something he'd been anticipating. If it'd been forgotten about, that would have been okay--Kota hadn't had a birthday in two years, after all.     But a little spark of excitement reignited within him as he carefully took the bundle from Muramasa and unbound the weapon.     "Oh wow," Kota breathed. It was a sword--just like Muramasa's. But Kota-sized. A wakizashi, as he recalled it was called, before. And far nicer than anything he could have imagined it would be like, too. The detail and imagery was like from straight out of a picture book, and fancy enough it looked like it belonged as a pattern sewn into the hem of a fancy woman's dress. "This's the nicest thing I've ever 'ad," Kota said quietly in amazement. Nicer than any bracelet or necklace or any other fancy thing.     With Muramasa's guidance, Kota tied the new weapon to his belt--on the opposite side of his dominant hand, as instructed. Proudly showing off his knot-skills to the older of the pair, too, as he attached the sheath to his hip. Readjusting where he kept his knife, Kota shifted the sheath of the smaller tool near the small of his back--easily accessed with either hand if needed, and out of direct view when approached from the front.     I feel like a warrior like from a story, Kota thought to himself. Looking up at Muramasa with a slight grin, a bit bashful. So cool. I'm just like Masa.     Matching scars on their foreheads, matching swords--they could've been twins, in Kota's eyes.     Muramasa's attention snagged as he picked up on something--though Kota hadn't heard anything approach. Not the rustle of a bush or any crunching of a leaf, but still, Kota trusted the older male's intuition, even if he didn't know what had sparked it. Stay close, the order had been given quietly, and Kota nodded with a silent nod--sneaking alongside the other. Smaller, closer to the ground, and careful to make as little noise as possible, the boy approached the stranger who had happened upon their camp, though kept further distance than Muramasa had.     Kota stayed near a bush--crouched down. Not entirely invisible, but less likely to be noticed--especially considering his dark clothing among the dark foliage. At least it's not a bear, he thought, a keen eye on the light-haired stranger. But if there's a fight I might have to show Muramasa my new trick sooner than I thought.

✜

[Jinmenshi Io]

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[attr="class","carvecount"]250 WORDS

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[attr="class","carvetitle"]Peaches

[attr="class","carvedesc"]Peaches peaches peaches peaches.

[attr="class","carvenotes"]Notes, lyrics, stats, tags can go here I guess. Doesn't scroll, but it's a pretty big space.

[attr="class","carvetext"]"Well hello sir, and hello to your friend by the bush,” Io said with a smile, he couldn’t quite make out the total visage of the person in concealment, but the white of their hilt could be seen through the foliage.

By instinct he rested his hand against his own wakizashi that fell at his side with a leather bound hilt, resting in a simple scabbard. Though the blade was made from fine materials, it was humbly decorated and designed not to stand out. For Io, the blade was not used as a miniature katana, but as a short sword he could wield efficiently in a single hand.

Resting on his opposite side was a small but noticeable gourd shoved full of arrows like a quiver, with a sickly black tar stained on the top of its tanned lips. It gave off the faint smell of decaying plant fibers.

His eyes took note of the man’s katana. The blade that Kyonosuke favored, and one he knew needed to be respected. Io’s nose twitched and he decided to try to break the tension.

"Sorry for intruding. I was curious to see what sort of people you were,” he said. "It’s good to see who I’m sharing the woods with before I start exploring, in case of bandits. You aren’t bandits, are you?”

The person he could see didn’t seem bery bandit like. But one could never be too careful. Io seemed a bit more relaxed, bringing his hand off the grip of the hilt and instead resting it lazily at the top.

[attr="class","carvecredit"]IVYLEAF33

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[Muramasa Uemon]

three vagabonds, far from home

---

Nodding his head at the boy's question the older wanderer spoke. "You needed a real weapon." He said, watching as the child tied the sheath to his belt. A tug on the knot prompted a throat sound of approval. Seemingly impressed by Kota's tying. "It's a big responsibility... and it's dangerous." A questioning look was shot his way.

"It's no toy... so no playing with it like one, alright?" A warning, given in his best 'stern adult' tone. Thinking back to his own training he recalled playing with his katana many times. Kota would no doubt still do it...

...but he had to at least lay down the law. Last thing he needed was the kid slicing a finger off or something. Once they had reached the opposite side of the camp Kota hid in some bushes. Lurking, and not half bad from what he could tell. All that time spent in the woods could come in handy. Hunting, fishing, foraging, made one half wild.

Though not wild enough to go unseen by this stranger. "Perceptive." The wanderer thought, looking him over. He was armed, but didn't appear to be an immediate threat. "Mm." A slight sound of acknowledgement towards his tale. Just wanted to see who they were... it was plausible enough. "Not bandits, just travelers." His response. As the stranger adjusted his grip, so did he. Resting his forearm on his katana's hilt instead. No longer ready to draw, but near enough to get to it if need be. "I take it you're no highwayman either?" Certainly didn't look like one.

Still, he'd seen weirder. Rōnin turned raider, wrestler turned murderer— the Shinobi World was big and strange. So while he may have been a half notch more relaxed, he was still cautious. Eyes rarely diverting from the youth at all.

---

SPOILER: Click to show

SPECIAL ABILITIES:

KASHIRA-WARI・首割り - ENHANCED CHAKRA CONTROL
Puppeteers must maintain expert control over their wide selection of puppets, and so too must a shinobi with their chakra. Necessary for his Puppet Ninjutsu and applicable to his other techniques, Uemon has trained extensively in order to mitigate the amount of chakra he uses with his jutsu. Compensating for his average chakra reserves this allows him to stay in the fight that much longer.

TSUKURIMONO・作り物 - INTELLIGENCE
Stage and setting can make or break a performance. A director needs vigilance and flexibility to ensure all the moving parts of a play go off without a hitch. A learned strategist with a quick mind, Uemon is always observing even in the midst of combat. This allows for him to find gaps and weaknesses in his opponent's techniques easier than some, and allows him to formulate strategies and deceptions to take advantage of these shortcomings. A knack for tactics cues him on which approach works best depending on his target.

ASHIZUKAI・足遣い - SPEED
Operating the legs of a puppet requires dexterity and agility. Much like moving one's own body. As a child in Tetsu no Kuni Uemon trained in Jujitsu and Kenjutsu, finding his aptitude for speed rather than strength. Honed after years on the road with his mentors, Uemon is surprisingly light on his feet and his hand-to-hand strikes are faster than most expect. Able to strike and weave with deft swiftness he is capable of holding his own against Taijutsu specialists of his rank and outright overwhelming those of lower ranks in terms of speed.

SHOMEI・署名 - SENSOR TYPE 
Lighting is a crucial part of any play. Identifying the actors and drawing focus to them in the dark. With much training Uemon has become a Sensor Type, able to detect and hone in on chakra signatures akin to a sixth sense of sorts. A useful tool when it comes to tracking or surveillance. As of now, he is capable of passively sensing chakra up to one hundred meters from his body, or one kilometer if actively searching. This also allows him to more efficiently utilize his puppets without needing a direct line of sight to his targets. Knowing the placement of actors on stage at all times is essential.

[Kota]

The sun will be guiding you They're dying to stop you This race is a prophecy Break out from society Kota looked up at Muramasa and gave a firm nod. "Boda's a toy. This's a tool," the child stated calmly, knowingly. Though he frowned, slightly. My knife I can use for all kinds of things. Cutting, skinning, stabbing, but a sword like this is probably a tool only meant for one thing... Whenever his father used a sword, it was for one set purpose. He could use a knife, he could use an ax--but those could be tools used for other purposes as well. But a large blade such as a katana--or a wakizashi for Kota--it was best suited for one thing. "For killin'."     Perhaps one difference between he and Muramasa--despite their many similarities.     Kota had already killed, at eight years of age. He knew, well, what weapons were for, and while he may not have yet had the skills for swordfighting--he seemed to have a basic understanding and respect for tools and each of their natures and purposes.     Most probably wouldn't have let a six year old run around with a knife, either, but Kota hadn't been raised with the same privileges other children often got. While there were many ways in which he was still just a little boy--territorial, ignorant, emotionally immature--there was a great deal less naivete and fantasy around certain other topics.     After all, he may not have gone to school, perhaps he didn't know how to read or write, and he wasn't skilled in socialization--but he'd still been growing and learning every year he'd been alive. But, perhaps, it was only the things he'd needed to learn to survive had looked very different from most other kids his age.     When the young boy was called out by the stranger, Kota peeked his head out--only slightly--to get a better look at the light-haired man who had happened upon their camp. The boy's expression was still cautious--and intense. He didn't speak initially, still hesitant and unsure about the situation entirely--after all, in his experience, strangers were usually bad news.     Though, when the stranger asked a bit more about them, Kota was quick to answer on the topic of bandits--     "--Yeah, sure are." Though, Muramasa answered a bit more honestly, which caused the child to look up at him from where he'd been hiding, and quietly say in defeat, "Oh." Finally, Kota left his hiding place--standing upright and standing beside Muramasa with his attention fixed once more on the stranger with light hair. No point in hiding if he had already been found out, he supposed.     It was not the first time that Kota had lied about being a bandit, and it would not likely be the last time, either.

✜

[Jinmenshi Io]

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[attr="class","carvecount"]~220 WORDS

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[attr="class","carvetitle"]Peaches

[attr="class","carvedesc"]Peaches peaches peaches peaches.

[attr="class","carvenotes"]Muramasa Uemon
Kota

[attr="class","carvetext"]"We are kin then. Today, I am just traveling. Seeing new places and meeting new people are one of life’s greatest joys."

"Usually I am whatever I’m paid to be, but I try to work for honest folk.” Io replied. "Merchants pay better than bandits, and they smell better too—” He grinned and chuckled under his breath, eyes sliding over to the child poking his head out.

The boy said they were bandits, the man said they weren’t. It was suspicious, since many naïve children were known to speak the truth when deception was called for. Nonetheless, Io wouldn’t bother with a line of questioning. He’d just be careful not to let his guard down completely.

He spotted the decorated wakizashi at the child’s side and rubbed his chin. Did he intend to master the one-handed blade? No, it was more likely it was being used as a katana. He’d one day exchange it for its larger cousin, Io thought.

"Your son?” Io asked, turning his attention back to the man. He wasn’t quite sure. The hair color was close enough, though the facial features didn’t seem too similar. But it was hard to tell. He shifted himself back a bit and looked back at the boy’s blade. "Quite a blade for someone so young, do you know how to handle it?”

[attr="class","carvecredit"]IVYLEAF33

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[Muramasa Uemon]

a new beginning?

---

Eyeing the boy as he claimed he understood, the older wanderer listened. "Of course he gets it." Kota was no fool and his father had probably told him the same. 'For killing' the child said. After some thought... he nodded.

Swords long or short only really had one purpose. So it was good that he understood. Hopefully he'd never have to use it at all. But in the event that he did? He needed to be ready. Willing. Comprehending of the gravity of his actions and what all that would entail. It was what he had planned on teaching him until this newcomer arrived.

But perhaps... this was a blessing in disguise. Already his mind was moving, pausing briefly as the child told the stranger that they were indeed bandits. "Kota..." He said, like some parent trying to correct a rude child.

A part of him was proud though. The boy was sharp and a bluff could save one's skin if need be. Something told him they wouldn't need to rely on lies for this fellow traveler however. "Kith." The wanderer spoke in response to being called kin. "Maybe." Too soon to say. But kindred spirits were rare and as long as he didn't seek to harm him or the child he was not unwelcome here. He nodded as the youth spoke. "Honest work is best, I find." A bit easier on the conscience at least. As he continued on his own discerning gaze relaxed a touch, body easing too.

Merchants paid and smelled better? If he was the laughing type he might've chuckled. "That they do."

Asked if Kota was his son, he glanced to the boy... then shook his head. "My ward." It was the easiest way to explain without going into detail. When he questioned Kota's ability the older wanderer nodded at the boy, as if to tell him it was okay to answer. He could speak for himself. Had some wild edges to work out... but then, he was no great orator either. One learned best by doing so he allowed him room to talk. "We're out here to train." Said after a while. "Dangerous times we live in, after all." Turning his gaze to the stranger, he eyed his wakizashi. 

"Are you a swordsman yourself?" A leading question... for the more important one. "Samurai?" Ever so slightly his gaze narrowed. He didn't look it... but rōnin didn't typically advertise themselves. Not usually, anyway.

For the time being he would simply stand and wait for an answer. Forearm still resting on his weapon's hilt. 

---

SPOILER: Click to show

SPECIAL ABILITIES:

KASHIRA-WARI・首割り - ENHANCED CHAKRA CONTROL
Puppeteers must maintain expert control over their wide selection of puppets, and so too must a shinobi with their chakra. Necessary for his Puppet Ninjutsu and applicable to his other techniques, Uemon has trained extensively in order to mitigate the amount of chakra he uses with his jutsu. Compensating for his average chakra reserves this allows him to stay in the fight that much longer.

TSUKURIMONO・作り物 - INTELLIGENCE
Stage and setting can make or break a performance. A director needs vigilance and flexibility to ensure all the moving parts of a play go off without a hitch. A learned strategist with a quick mind, Uemon is always observing even in the midst of combat. This allows for him to find gaps and weaknesses in his opponent's techniques easier than some, and allows him to formulate strategies and deceptions to take advantage of these shortcomings. A knack for tactics cues him on which approach works best depending on his target.

ASHIZUKAI・足遣い - SPEED
Operating the legs of a puppet requires dexterity and agility. Much like moving one's own body. As a child in Tetsu no Kuni Uemon trained in Jujitsu and Kenjutsu, finding his aptitude for speed rather than strength. Honed after years on the road with his mentors, Uemon is surprisingly light on his feet and his hand-to-hand strikes are faster than most expect. Able to strike and weave with deft swiftness he is capable of holding his own against Taijutsu specialists of his rank and outright overwhelming those of lower ranks in terms of speed.

SHOMEI・署名 - SENSOR TYPE 
Lighting is a crucial part of any play. Identifying the actors and drawing focus to them in the dark. With much training Uemon has become a Sensor Type, able to detect and hone in on chakra signatures akin to a sixth sense of sorts. A useful tool when it comes to tracking or surveillance. As of now, he is capable of passively sensing chakra up to one hundred meters from his body, or one kilometer if actively searching. This also allows him to more efficiently utilize his puppets without needing a direct line of sight to his targets. Knowing the placement of actors on stage at all times is essential.

[Kota]

The sun will be guiding you They're dying to stop you This race is a prophecy Break out from society Kota fell quiet when the stranger spoke up--casually talking with his conversation more directed toward Muramasa as he shed some light on his nature. So, he was the type who would do anything for money, but still looked down on others with different backgrounds and means of survival to him. Kota's eyes narrowed slightly, and he grabbed onto Muramasa's sleeve with one hand as he stayed close, though kept his attention fixed firmly on the stranger.     One of life's greatest joys? He stared intensely. What does that even mean? Travelling was joyful for him? Meeting strangers was something that made him happy? Kota couldn't even begin to conceptualize it. The light-haired man was a different creature entirely, and his language was foreign to the feral child.     Still, Muramasa agreed, too.     He would rather work for "honest" people, as they had put it.     Kota released his grip on Muramasa's clothing and pressed his lips together tightly in a straight line. Bandits and criminals, they've never really hurt me, before. Even the guy who kidnapped me never actually hurt me. And I'm a bad person, too. I've stolen, I lie, just like that one samurai guy said--the things I do all the time are bad. That makes me a bad person. And, more often than not, he'd found solidarity in those who were most similar to him. They were all like different creatures of the same species. But merchants and "honest" folk... Kota thought back to those inside of villages, and towns, and cities.     Civilized people.     They only ever give me trouble.     Yelled at him, kicked him out or threw him to the streets--tried forcing him into an orphanage against his will. Beating him, setting their dogs on him, or even trying to kill him themselves.     Kota's hands curled into fists. "I do," he answered back quickly when the stranger asked if he knew how to use the blade at his side. "My knife, too." He glared. "And my teeth." Then, a warning. "You don't wanna mess with me."

✜

[Jinmenshi Io]

[googlefont=Source Sans Pro][googlefont=Teko]

[attr="class","carvemyname"]

[attr="class","carvecount"]~230 WORDS

[attr="class","carveheader"]

[attr="class","carveidk"]

[attr="class","carveimg"]

[attr="class","carvestripe"]

[attr="class","carvetitle"]Peaches

[attr="class","carvedesc"]Peaches peaches peaches peaches.

[attr="class","carvenotes"]Muramasa Uemon Kota

[attr="class","carvetext"]A laugh bellowed from Io’s belly and his own teeth were revealed. "And fine teeth at that, my boy. Maybe we ought to tend to the young master’s lunch before things get out of hand? I bet we could find some delicious mushrooms around here, with the river being nearby and all.”

He paused and turned his attention back to the man. Io truly saw the criminal life as prohibitive to freedom, as even those who escaped shackles had to avoid the law for their misdeeds. The wanderer enjoyed civilization as much as he did the wilderness, and so he would make no rash moves to be expelled from it.

"Think about it. Anyways, I wouldn’t say I’m a samurai. Just a farmer’s son. A friend of mine is an excellent swordsman, and I needed a way to deal with critters and folks who got a little to close for the old bow here, slung on my back,” he explained. "He favors the katana, but it's a bit impractical for me to draw with my bow in hand, so the wakizashi is my blade of choice.”

He paused for a moment and started poking at the kindling of the fire, hoping they might entertain sharing the labor of making lunch.

"The names Io by the way, from the Land of Waves far to the east. It’s a pleasure to meet cha! Always happy to exchange a bit of my knowledge of the blade with fellow enthusiasts, should it be your fancy.”

[attr="class","carvecredit"]IVYLEAF33

[newclass=".carveheader a,.carveheader b,.carvetext b"]color: #efa662;[/newclass][newclass=".carvemyname"]width:450px;background-color:#2E2E2E;color:gainsboro;padding:20px;border-bottom:solid 20px #3b9786;[/newclass][newclass=".carvecount"]font-family:Teko;font-size:13px;margin-top:170px;background-color:#3b9786;color:#2E2E2E;margin-left:-20px;padding-right:7px;padding:5px;border-radius:0px 10px 10px 0px;z-index:10;position:absolute;[/newclass][newclass=".carveheader"]height:245px;[/newclass][newclass=".carveidk"]text-align:left;margin-top:-20px;margin-left:-20px;[/newclass][newclass=".carveimg"]max-width:240px;min-width:240px;float:left;-webkit-clip-path: polygon(0% 0%, 75% 0%, 100% 0, 75% 100%, 0% 100%);clip-path: polygon(0% 0%, 75% 0%, 100% 0, 75% 100%, 0% 100%);[/newclass][newclass=".carvestripe"]background-color:#3b9786;height:225px;margin-right:225px;-webkit-clip-path: polygon(90% 0, 98% 0, 75% 100%, 67% 100%);clip-path: polygon(90% 0, 98% 0, 75% 100%, 67% 100%);[/newclass][newclass=".carvetitle"]text-transform:uppercase;font-family:Teko;font-size:48px;text-align:right;color:#d6dfda;margin-top:20px;[/newclass][newclass=".carvedesc"]font-size:13px;color:#efa662;font-family:Teko;margin-top:-10px;text-align:right;[/newclass][newclass=".carvenotes"]margin-top:10px;font-family:Source Sans Pro;font-size:10px;padding-right:5px;height:160px;margin-left:20px;color:white;[/newclass][newclass=".carvetext"]font-family:Source Sans Pro;text-align:justify;font-size:12px;padding:15px;padding-left:20px;padding-right:20px;[/newclass][newclass=".carvecredit"]width:475px;font-size:12px;text-align:right;margin-left:5px;[/newclass]

[Muramasa Uemon]

prospect of a duel

---

A deadpan expression overcame his face as the boy spoke. Defensive, threatening. It really put into persepective all the time he had spent alone... and made their bond that much rarer. "Kota." He said, a slight frown forming.

Placing a hand on the child's shoulder, his head tilted a bit. Giving him a discouraging look. "No need for that."

It came from a good place, that much he knew. But learning when and how best to direct hostility was an important skill. Something they'd have to work on. The stranger, for his part seemed rather amused. Lighthearted, even.

Shaking his head, he spoke up. "I'd rather not train on a full stomach." A lesson he learned long ago. Through much more rigorous means. The youth explained his skillset. Nodding as he listened. "A bowman, then?" It wasn't often that he came across archers. Some samurai he knew as a boy practiced Kyūjutsu... but most favored the blade. 

Wakizashi were quicker to draw and easier to wield. "Understandable." He said with a nod. Watching him prod at the fire made him wrinkle his nose. Between that and his talk of food it wasn't that hard to figure the stranger was hungry. "I'm Muramasa." His own name in return. "And likewise." Io seemed pleasant enough. A little friendlier then he was used to... but with their recent experiences? That was definitely a good thing. Muramasa looked to Kota, gesturing to the man with his eyes as if to give him the go ahead to introduce himself.

Polite conversation wasn't his forte either... but it was important to know how. At Io's suggestion he glanced to the fellow wanderer. Likeminded. "Actually, if you don't mind I could use a sparring partner." That blessing in disguise that he was thinking about. Of course Kota would need one-on-one instruction, but the opportunity to see a mock battle? "It'll be good for you to watch." He said to the boy, giving his shoulder a light squeeze. 

Muramasa allowed a weak attempt at a smirk to cross his face. "See what you can pick up." A thought occurred and he turned his gaze again to Io. "I have some onigiri I made. If you'd rather eat first." An offer.

Clearly the youth had food on his mind and it would be rather rude to expect him to spar while famished.

---

SPOILER: Click to show

SPECIAL ABILITIES:

KASHIRA-WARI・首割り - ENHANCED CHAKRA CONTROL
Puppeteers must maintain expert control over their wide selection of puppets, and so too must a shinobi with their chakra. Necessary for his Puppet Ninjutsu and applicable to his other techniques, Uemon has trained extensively in order to mitigate the amount of chakra he uses with his jutsu. Compensating for his average chakra reserves this allows him to stay in the fight that much longer.

TSUKURIMONO・作り物 - INTELLIGENCE
Stage and setting can make or break a performance. A director needs vigilance and flexibility to ensure all the moving parts of a play go off without a hitch. A learned strategist with a quick mind, Uemon is always observing even in the midst of combat. This allows for him to find gaps and weaknesses in his opponent's techniques easier than some, and allows him to formulate strategies and deceptions to take advantage of these shortcomings. A knack for tactics cues him on which approach works best depending on his target.

ASHIZUKAI・足遣い - SPEED
Operating the legs of a puppet requires dexterity and agility. Much like moving one's own body. As a child in Tetsu no Kuni Uemon trained in Jujitsu and Kenjutsu, finding his aptitude for speed rather than strength. Honed after years on the road with his mentors, Uemon is surprisingly light on his feet and his hand-to-hand strikes are faster than most expect. Able to strike and weave with deft swiftness he is capable of holding his own against Taijutsu specialists of his rank and outright overwhelming those of lower ranks in terms of speed.

SHOMEI・署名 - SENSOR TYPE 
Lighting is a crucial part of any play. Identifying the actors and drawing focus to them in the dark. With much training Uemon has become a Sensor Type, able to detect and hone in on chakra signatures akin to a sixth sense of sorts. A useful tool when it comes to tracking or surveillance. As of now, he is capable of passively sensing chakra up to one hundred meters from his body, or one kilometer if actively searching. This also allows him to more efficiently utilize his puppets without needing a direct line of sight to his targets. Knowing the placement of actors on stage at all times is essential.

[Kota]

The sun will be guiding you They're dying to stop you This race is a prophecy Break out from society Kota glanced up to meet Muramasa's disapproving gaze. It hadn't been entirely expected, but in truth, he hadn't given any consideration to what Muramasa might have thought about his behavior at all. And, even with his reprimand, Kota decided that he didn't agree with the older male's verdict, either. "Yes need for that," he argued lightly.     Of course, the light-haired man's laughing eased the child's tension quickly enough--though it wouldn't be immediately apparent in Kota's expression. But, at the very least, his intimidation tactic seemed to have worked well enough. While Kota didn't usually enjoy being laughed at--it didn't seem to him that he was being laughed at here, anyway. The stranger just seemed... friendly.     Which Kota didn't necessarily like--but it was much better than being hostile.     And he'd not known any other way to interpret the question that had been made of him. Usually, those who asked about one's fighting skills wanted to put them to the test--and it was impossible for Kota to view any kind of sparring with a stranger as being a potentially playful or good thing. Especially when the stranger--to him--read as incredibly dangerous. A bow meant ranged attack. A wakizashi meant close-ranged attacks. Kota would be in trouble no matter what he tried doing--even if he wanted to run. Not to mention...     "Is that were ya made that poison from? Mushrooms?" The scent had been faint--but Kota was well acquainted with much of nature, and if the stranger had enough confidence in his ability to discern safe and edible mushrooms from the poisonous ones, it was likely he was used to working with them. Whatever was dripping from the lip of that gourd--it didn't have the usual bitter scent that many poisonous plants gave off.     It was more like rot.     Decay.     Fungus.     Icky stuff. Certainly the kind of thing Kota wanted to keep his distance from... Not to touch, and not even to smell it.     The two adults introduced themselves to one-another. Io was the name of the stranger, and Muramasa--well, Kota already knew his name. Though, when his companion gave him a look, silently ushering him to give his name as well, Kota merely gave a look back, as if to say, What do you want from me?     After all, it wasn't as if Muramasa hadn't already said his name twice, now... He'd been the first to be introduced--as a... whatever a ward was.     And, while the concern of being attacked by the stranger had mostly eased in Kota by now, it seemed that Io and Muramasa were more than eager to fight one-another. The older of the duo even suggesting to Kota that it would be a good opportunity for him to watch and potentially pick up a trick or two by watching.     Kota whipped his head up to stare at Muramasa incredulously. "What'dy'a mean!" He let out a growl of frustration, abruptly shrugging off Muramasa's hand before trying to push him. Not having the strength to topple the older male, though, he just... well, he'd keep trying. "You said they ain't for playin'! If ya fight for no good reason an' then ya get hurt I'm gonna--I'm gonna be so pissed off at you!" Like hell he was gonna watch! SPOILER: Click to show Survivalist Despite his incredibly young age, Kota has lived outside the comforts of a home and was always on the road with his father, who taught him how to survive on his own in the wild. Although the boy is no expert on how to survive some of the more extreme terrains, he knows how to make a fire of his own, find shelter, knows how to recognize some of the more commonly-known edible plants and berries, how to get clean water and cover his tracks. Mostly.

✜

[Jinmenshi Io]

[googlefont=Source Sans Pro][googlefont=Teko]

[attr="class","carvemyname"]

[attr="class","carvecount"]~250 WORDS

[attr="class","carveheader"]

[attr="class","carveidk"]

[attr="class","carveimg"]

[attr="class","carvestripe"]

[attr="class","carvetitle"]Peaches

[attr="class","carvedesc"]Peaches peaches peaches peaches.

[attr="class","carvenotes"]Muramasa Uemon Kota

[attr="class","carvetext"]Io took in the conversation, allowing Kota a chance to speak before he’d get around to answering Muramasa’s proposal. He ended up getting distracted by the boy’s interest in his poison, and thought it might be best to answer him first.

"Ah good nose on you lad, the toxin is made up mostly of a certain pieris flower, but mold plays a part in the way it works,” he said. "Great for getting the beasties to stop running, helps with catching a good supper.”

Did it work on humans? Of course. But no need to make the mood dour. He turned his attention back to Muramasa and nodded. He put his hand out in a gesture to mark that he would indeed take the onigiri. Turning yourself into pure mold and burrowing through the roots of the earth had a way of taking a toll on your stamina, and some rice would be the perfect carbohydrate to get him some quick energy.

"A spar would be lovely, after I have a nibble. I’ve been working on my footwork, and my parrying, and it’s been awhile since I’ve seen my sword fighting friend,” he explained. "Young master Kota, we’ll be plenty careful not to hurt each other, he can smack me with the dull end if he gets past my guarding. That ought to be okay, don’t you think?”

He put the bow down against a tree near the camp, as well as his poison. Io held his breath for a moment. If they were going to double cross him, now would be the time.

[attr="class","carvecredit"]IVYLEAF33

[newclass=".carveheader a,.carveheader b,.carvetext b"]color: #efa662;[/newclass][newclass=".carvemyname"]width:450px;background-color:#2E2E2E;color:gainsboro;padding:20px;border-bottom:solid 20px #3b9786;[/newclass][newclass=".carvecount"]font-family:Teko;font-size:13px;margin-top:170px;background-color:#3b9786;color:#2E2E2E;margin-left:-20px;padding-right:7px;padding:5px;border-radius:0px 10px 10px 0px;z-index:10;position:absolute;[/newclass][newclass=".carveheader"]height:245px;[/newclass][newclass=".carveidk"]text-align:left;margin-top:-20px;margin-left:-20px;[/newclass][newclass=".carveimg"]max-width:240px;min-width:240px;float:left;-webkit-clip-path: polygon(0% 0%, 75% 0%, 100% 0, 75% 100%, 0% 100%);clip-path: polygon(0% 0%, 75% 0%, 100% 0, 75% 100%, 0% 100%);[/newclass][newclass=".carvestripe"]background-color:#3b9786;height:225px;margin-right:225px;-webkit-clip-path: polygon(90% 0, 98% 0, 75% 100%, 67% 100%);clip-path: polygon(90% 0, 98% 0, 75% 100%, 67% 100%);[/newclass][newclass=".carvetitle"]text-transform:uppercase;font-family:Teko;font-size:48px;text-align:right;color:#d6dfda;margin-top:20px;[/newclass][newclass=".carvedesc"]font-size:13px;color:#efa662;font-family:Teko;margin-top:-10px;text-align:right;[/newclass][newclass=".carvenotes"]margin-top:10px;font-family:Source Sans Pro;font-size:10px;padding-right:5px;height:160px;margin-left:20px;color:white;[/newclass][newclass=".carvetext"]font-family:Source Sans Pro;text-align:justify;font-size:12px;padding:15px;padding-left:20px;padding-right:20px;[/newclass][newclass=".carvecredit"]width:475px;font-size:12px;text-align:right;margin-left:5px;[/newclass]

[Muramasa Uemon]

two willing, another loath

---

Further his flat expression stretched. Until it was a nearly a frown. "We really need to work on social skills..."

Later though. The boy had the right idea at least being wary of strangers. But learning when to turn it off and how to gauge interactions with people was crucial. It wasn't that Muramasa trusted this stranger...

...so much as he didn't have immediate cause to be unduly defensive. Kota was still a child and would learn in due time. He'd make sure of it. However his suspicion did garner something of value. Poison. "Interesting." His eyes fell to the gourd as he listened to Io's explanation. It wasn't as if he could fault him for carrying toxins. He did too.

Of course the boy didn't take his cue to make a proper introduction. It was his own fault for assuming tact. Then? A slap. Muramasa stared as he did his best to shove him. First rubbing the back of his own neck in exasperation...

Before a hint of concern shone behind his eyes. "Hey." The older wanderer said softly, placing both hands on the boy's shoulders and crouching down to eye level. Grip firm. But not painful. "This is part of training." He explained. Every so often he had to remind himself that Kota was a wild child. Unfamiliar with plenty of things.

Practices and methods that seemed normal to shinobi or samurai. Some things would need to be taught to him from the ground up... and that was okay. "It's how people test themselves and get better..." He said.

Doing his best to describe it in a way Kota might comprehend. "So when a real fight comes around? You're ready for it." He searched the child's face for understanding. To him, it probably did seem crazy. But it was a critical aspect of improvement. "No one's going to get hurt... okay?" Giving a glance towards Io, he nodded.

A bit thankful for his own words. Hopefully the boy would understand. "Come on." Muramasa said, standing up and nodding towards camp. "Are you hungry?" Food helped cranky children, right? Walking over, he untied his own sword. Leaning it against a log that was set up as a makeshift bench. It didn't take long for him to retreive a small cloth bundle next. Unwrapping it to reveal four neatly-made onigiri. "They're made with kombu."

Another dish from his homeland that was simple and pragmatic. Though he did take care to caramelize the kelp beforehand with some rice wine and soy sauce. Without another word he offered them to both Kota and Io.

---

SPOILER: Click to show

SPECIAL ABILITIES:

KASHIRA-WARI・首割り - ENHANCED CHAKRA CONTROL
Puppeteers must maintain expert control over their wide selection of puppets, and so too must a shinobi with their chakra. Necessary for his Puppet Ninjutsu and applicable to his other techniques, Uemon has trained extensively in order to mitigate the amount of chakra he uses with his jutsu. Compensating for his average chakra reserves this allows him to stay in the fight that much longer.

TSUKURIMONO・作り物 - INTELLIGENCE
Stage and setting can make or break a performance. A director needs vigilance and flexibility to ensure all the moving parts of a play go off without a hitch. A learned strategist with a quick mind, Uemon is always observing even in the midst of combat. This allows for him to find gaps and weaknesses in his opponent's techniques easier than some, and allows him to formulate strategies and deceptions to take advantage of these shortcomings. A knack for tactics cues him on which approach works best depending on his target.

ASHIZUKAI・足遣い - SPEED
Operating the legs of a puppet requires dexterity and agility. Much like moving one's own body. As a child in Tetsu no Kuni Uemon trained in Jujitsu and Kenjutsu, finding his aptitude for speed rather than strength. Honed after years on the road with his mentors, Uemon is surprisingly light on his feet and his hand-to-hand strikes are faster than most expect. Able to strike and weave with deft swiftness he is capable of holding his own against Taijutsu specialists of his rank and outright overwhelming those of lower ranks in terms of speed.

SHOMEI・署名 - SENSOR TYPE 
Lighting is a crucial part of any play. Identifying the actors and drawing focus to them in the dark. With much training Uemon has become a Sensor Type, able to detect and hone in on chakra signatures akin to a sixth sense of sorts. A useful tool when it comes to tracking or surveillance. As of now, he is capable of passively sensing chakra up to one hundred meters from his body, or one kilometer if actively searching. This also allows him to more efficiently utilize his puppets without needing a direct line of sight to his targets. Knowing the placement of actors on stage at all times is essential.

[Kota]

The sun will be guiding you They're dying to stop you This race is a prophecy Break out from society Mold played a part in the poison? But it wasn't the poison itself? While Io hadn't had Kota's interest before, he certainly had it, now. And if he used it for hunting--did it slow down his prey by killing them? Or did the toxins merely disordinate and weren't actually lethal? "Isn't that dangerous to poison your food, though?" Kota wondered aloud. If he caught a venomous snake, after all, he'd make sure to remove its head first--since that's where its poison sacks were, but the rest of the snake was usually pretty safe. There was always the risk of catching an animal or other creature that was diseased--so wouldn't it be counterproductive to catch prey by poisoning it?     Kota deadpanned.     What if this guy can eat poison? Immunity was a thing in nature, after all. He'd not heard of a human not being affected by poison and using that same poison to harm others, but he supposed it was entirely possible. That's unbelievable.      When Muramasa tried to neutralize Kota's outburst, the child froze up when the older teen knelt down and held onto his shoulders firmly with both hands. Boxing him in, in a way, and demanding his full attention. The swordsman tried explaining it, calmly, and Kota felt a flood of emotions swell up in his chest. He didn't want them to fight, and he certainly didn't want to watch them. Even as the two teens tried to assure him that they weren't going to hurt each-other, it was still entirely nerve-wracking. Io even mentioned a friend that he sparred with, often--but were they really friends if they fought so often?     Kota's heart raced as he looked back and forth between them. Neither seemed hostile or angry; Io assured he was going to focus on defense, and Muramasa could even use the dull end of his blade. It was just practice fighting--not real, actual fighting.     But, still, Kota had never seen real weapons used playfully.     It was always of deadly nature.     He'd never once seen his father practice a spar with another person. If he ever drew his sword--it was to draw blood. Whenever Kota drew his knife--it had been a threat to kill, and one that, as Muramasa had witnessed, he was willing to carry through.     In the wild, there was no such thing as an empty threat, only sincere warnings.     Kota gripped tightly onto his shirt and bit down on his lip as his eyes started to water. I don't want to watch them, but if something bad happens I don't wanna not be there, either. And I don't want to fight Muramasa, since he and this guy are both agreeing this is an important part of practice. When asked if he was hungry, Kota gave a little nod, taking in a deep breath as he tried soothing himself, knowing Muramasa's aversion toward displays of emotion. And I don't wanna get in his way.     Muramasa assured that nobody was going to get hurt, so Kota was just going to have to take a leap of faith and trust him... though, he wasn't sure what other choice he had. If he tried stopping them, he'd probably only upset them--and the last thing he wanted to do was upset Uemon.     Kota quietly took the onigiri from Muramasa, sitting on the ground with his knees tucked to his chest as Io set down his gourd and took one of the other rice balls from their gracious cook. Since Muramasa's food was pretty good. "I'm not Young Master Kota," the boy mumbled after a while, taking a few bites as he tried... well... he wasn't sure. He didn't want to talk about the fight. Or sparring. Or training or practice or--whatever it was they wanted to call it. But any other interest or form of engagement had entirely dissipated from the boy for the time being, so the only thing he could think to do was correct the newcomer. "Just Kota."

✜