[Akira]

Touwa had once learned, twice shied from the opportunity of Hotarubi's tutoring - as it had been offered, whether that was to his knowledge or not. The Yamakira did not know if such communication made it: but he did know he hadn't received any answers, for which Hotarubi was not accepting a no on.

But this time - unbelievably, Hotarubi would seek Touwa out. Trudging through the academy and been given the knowledge of of his class, the door would slide open. "Touwa." Hotarubi's voice rung up - and the class would feel for him before he arrived, as he stared at the teacher. "We have a private lesson." The teacher was certainly caught off guard by seeing Hotarubi again, but didn't seem to protest to much.

Obviously, Touwa would have no knowledge of it - but it was likely better than whatever they were doing, given the books in their hands. "Uh... Yeah. Tonkonatsu-san, pack your things." The teacher seemed aversive to Hotarubi for some reason.

"You've been avoiding me," Hotarubi would say as he slid the door shut from the academy classroom. "We have Taijutsu training to go through." Perhaps it had been because Hotarubi was very much not human when it came to Taijutsu - to hit against him was no different than a training dummy.

Hotarubi had his own 'leadership course' to attend and what better way than to make Touwa his little 'project' like Kenji was doing to him, if no other shining stars came through? Hotarubi felt the slightest pang of owing Touwa - not because of Touwa themselves, but because of Tadashi. Probably one of the main reasons that Hotarubi was even let back into the academy.

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[Tokonatsu Touwa]

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Touwa couldn't help but feel a mixture of surprise and confusion as Hotarubi abruptly entered the classroom, announcing a private lesson. The mention of Taijutsu training didn't exactly fill him with excitement, especially with the cryptic mention of being avoided.
[break][break]
"Yeah, sure," Touwa responded, hastily gathering his belongings. The teacher's aversion to Hotarubi didn't go unnoticed, and it left Touwa with an uneasy feeling. As they stepped out of the classroom, the door sliding shut behind them, Hotarubi confronted him about the apparent avoidance.
[break][break]
Touwa, still trying to make sense of the unexpected turn of events, stuttered out a response. "Avoiding you? No, I just... wasn't expecting this." He couldn't deny the intrigue, though. A private lesson? Out of nowhere? Touwa couldn't stop questioning the sudden turn of events. Did his clan put him up for this? It was likely, but a Tokonatsu asking a Yamakira for help? So unlikly. Or maybe one of his parent? His thoughts trailed to Yukari and were quickly dismissed. Probably not. Was it Tadashi? The only way to find out was to follow Hotarubi.
[break][break]
As they made their way to the training area, Touwa couldn't shake the feeling that Hotarubi had some ulterior motive. "Hotarubi-san, did any of my parents ask you to have a private lesson with me?" Touwa asked straightforwardly. Ready to proceed with whatever lesson Hotarubi had for him.
[break][break]

SPOILER: Click to show

斬術 | Zanjutsu [lit. Cutting Technique]
[break][break]
The Araikettei clan's KKG allows the user to obtain and wield the Life Blade - Ruiteki. The blade has its own consciousness and is capable of acting on its own. Regardless, Touwa and his Life Blade are inextricably linked to life and death. When one dies, the other dies, and thus anyone who is not Touwa is unable to wield the weapon.
[break][break]
鐘剣道 | Kane Kendo [lit. Bell sword way]
[break][break]
After investing a significant amount of time Touwa has achieved an understanding of his lifeblade. As a result, he has unlocked the ability to establish communication with them. This newfound connection enables Touwa to effectively manipulate and mold the lifeblade according to his desires. Harnessing the power of the Araikettei clan's hijutsu, Touwa now possesses the capability to skillfully utilize various techniques through the embodiment of Ruiteki itself.

[attr="class","ooc-area"]WORD: 228
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Akira

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[Akira]

His eyes narrowed - but not at Touwa as he continued walking, as he'd already had a place in mind.

"Why? Have you heard something?" Ryu being missing was now starting to break: it had been a few weeks, and normally that was normal: but a few extra weeks after that and his lack of presence at even meetings he would have turned up to was just what Kenji had been predicting.

The news of a fight between Hotarubi and Ryu had been spreading throughout the village like wildfire thanks to the Jonin Hancho: and it wasn't true. Not completely. All Hotarubi had done, much like his own fight with Kenji was not die - and fired some of his own techniques the the Lord. But... he was going to let the wildfire burn for itself for as long as he could take it.

When asked about his parents he would stop in his tracks and turned to Touwa. "No. I sent you letters - your shinobi pigeon hole, for the academy, dammit." Hotarubi would wipe at his face. Maybe they hadn't seen it? Well - it would have been nice if his parents had asked but why would the head of the academy not... head it? For the student? Well - maybe it was because it would be seen as favoritism? But clans taught their own all the time, so ...

He wasn't going to get bogged down with reductive and pointless thoughts. "We spoke about what you needed help with and I was following up - to see how your fighting was, and if the wind blows our way, you're going to fight me today."

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[Tokonatsu Touwa]

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Touwa couldn't shake the sense of bewilderment that hung in the air as he followed Hotarubi to the training area. The sudden call for a private lesson, the cryptic mentions of avoidance, and now the revelation that it wasn't his parents who had arranged this – it all left Touwa with more questions than answers.
[break][break]
Hotarubi's denial about his parents' involvement only deepened the mystery. The letters? Touwa furrowed his brow, trying to recall any messages from Hotarubi. The chaos of daily life, combined with the steady flow of information, made it possible for such correspondence to slip through the cracks.
[break][break]
"I... I must have missed the letters," Touwa admitted, a twinge of guilt creeping into his voice. He hadn't been neglecting his responsibilities deliberately, but the pace of someone belonging to the Tokonatsu clan's Asagao branch sometimes led to oversights. Thought that was no excuse he needed to be perfect if he was to lead the clan one day.
[break][break]
The abrupt revelation that they might engage in a fight added another layer to the unfolding scenario. Touwa's eyes widened in surprise. "Fight you? Today?" The unexpected challenge caught him off guard, but he straightened his posture, realizing that this was likely part of the training.
[break][break]
"Alright, Hotarubi-san. If that's what it takes to improve, I'm ready," Touwa replied, determination replacing his initial confusion. The prospect of facing a seasoned shinobi like Hotarubi in combat was daunting, but he understood the importance of such challenges in the path of a shinobi.
[break][break]

SPOILER: Click to show

斬術 | Zanjutsu [lit. Cutting Technique]
[break][break]
The Araikettei clan's KKG allows the user to obtain and wield the Life Blade - Ruiteki. The blade has its own consciousness and is capable of acting on its own. Regardless, Touwa and his Life Blade are inextricably linked to life and death. When one dies, the other dies, and thus anyone who is not Touwa is unable to wield the weapon.
[break][break]
鐘剣道 | Kane Kendo [lit. Bell sword way]
[break][break]
After investing a significant amount of time Touwa has achieved an understanding of his lifeblade. As a result, he has unlocked the ability to establish communication with them. This newfound connection enables Touwa to effectively manipulate and mold the lifeblade according to his desires. Harnessing the power of the Araikettei clan's hijutsu, Touwa now possesses the capability to skillfully utilize various techniques through the embodiment of Ruiteki itself.

[attr="class","ooc-area"]WORD: 250
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Akira

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[Akira]

Nodding, knowing that not everything could be caught and Touwa was between the fake and real Takigakure. "Fine." Hotarubi felt a pang of understanding and that raised the hairs on the back of his neck. Comprehension? Empathy? Nah. Couldn't have been. They walked along the halls - outside the front main doors. "yeah." He answered Touwa's question earnestly.

And Touwa would have gathered that they were beelining for the adjacent jungle opposite the academy, a place where he would have already frequented in his budding Shinobi career. Hotarubi had been here too; training in secret to use non-elemental ninjutsu, the most difficult part about his time here at the academy and his barrier to becoming a Genin.

That seemed to long ago as his eyes seemed to soften and released from the grasp of firm facial expressions as they neared the forest. And as they reached the precipice of the forest and Hotarubi was right by Touwa, without being given permission he would place his hands on Touwa's shoulders. "I am going to hunt you. You will go in the forest, and I will engage you. I will be fair." And then he would turn to the forest. "Bonchi no Kuni is our home, and the jungle has lots of opportunities to take advantage. You can run, hide, you can fight. It's no secret I'm a vastly superior Shinobi-"

Hotarubi would not slip to him that he would have already known where Touwa was at any given point on account of his sensory abilities, which he had kept much more secret than that of his earth body. But the point was to steel the boy's decision making skills and it was much less about the fighting: and a lot more about the flow of information and how he reacted in the face of adversity. "Now, off you go. You have a minute."

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[Tokonatsu Touwa]

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Touwa felt the weight of Hotarubi's hands on his shoulders, the gravity of the impending challenge settling in. The directive to run, hide, or fight echoed in his mind as he stood on the edge of the jungle. The reality of facing a seasoned shinobi like Hotarubi in a training scenario was both thrilling and daunting. Determination burned within him, fueled by the desire to prove himself.
[break][break]
Without hesitation, Touwa darted into the dense foliage, his senses heightened by the urgency of the situation. The vibrant greenery of Bonchi no Kuni surrounded him, and the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves provided a chaotic symphony as he sought a suitable hiding spot.
[break][break]
His steps were quick and agile, guided by instinct and a keen awareness of the environment. The challenge wasn't merely about avoiding Hotarubi; it was a test of his decision-making skills, adaptability, and strategic thinking. Touwa's mind raced as he scanned the surroundings for a spot that would provide cover and a vantage point for a surprise attack.
[break][break]
Ducking behind a cluster of thick bushes, Touwa crouched low, his heart pounding with anticipation. He focused on controlling his breath, attempting to blend into the natural rhythm of the jungle. The next minute would be crucial – a minute to strategize and prepare for the imminent encounter with Hotarubi.
[break][break]
As Touwa waited, the jungle embraced him with its lively energy, the ambiance serving as both an ally and a challenge. The seconds ticked away, each one amplifying the intensity of the moment. Touwa readied himself, determined to make the most of this opportunity for growth and learning, regardless of the outcome.
[break][break]

SPOILER: Click to show

斬術 | Zanjutsu [lit. Cutting Technique]
[break][break]
The Araikettei clan's KKG allows the user to obtain and wield the Life Blade - Ruiteki. The blade has its own consciousness and is capable of acting on its own. Regardless, Touwa and his Life Blade are inextricably linked to life and death. When one dies, the other dies, and thus anyone who is not Touwa is unable to wield the weapon.
[break][break]
鐘剣道 | Kane Kendo [lit. Bell sword way]
[break][break]
After investing a significant amount of time Touwa has achieved an understanding of his lifeblade. As a result, he has unlocked the ability to establish communication with them. This newfound connection enables Touwa to effectively manipulate and mold the lifeblade according to his desires. Harnessing the power of the Araikettei clan's hijutsu, Touwa now possesses the capability to skillfully utilize various techniques through the embodiment of Ruiteki itself.

[attr="class","ooc-area"]WORD: 272
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Akira

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[Akira]

Touwa would take off into the forest and Hotarubi didn't wait the full minute to start walking, in order to remain in some distance, stomping every now and against to catch the rush of the boy's movements and where he was headed. It was such a neat little trick that he'd learned and he was glad to have put in the so many hours that it might've been forgone otherwise.

Perhaps contrary against popular belief: Hotarubi was not out to get him or anybody else. In fact, this had usually always been for his own benefit. Learning how to mesh with others, learn how his style became - he was interested in making other people stronger so he had stronger people to bounce off. Not many students, he had found at the academy were worth a damn.

Granted, sure, he wasn't a teacher and didn't spend very much time on site at all. But still! Hotarubi skulked, trying to keep around the sightlines as he continued to track Touwa, letting him simmer in his own either worry: or determination. Touwa had chosen to hide to begin with. Good choice - in the face of a superior opponent.

Hotarubi would give the boy an opportunity as he began to beeline toward Touwa: not directly at him as such but enough that he would have come by 5 meters away as his head 'scanned' the environment in a fake show of acting, looking up at the trees. Though it would likely settle on quietness, Hotarubi would interrupt that environment as he swung an arm out vertical to the ground, raking across the floor with his arm that would raise boulders from the completely opposite direction that Touwa was.

Those twenty some boulders would bludgeon through or past trees, bringing the forest to a deadly quiet as the tension of bark splintered against itself - provided Touwa didn't rise to it or run, or attack: Hotarubi would continue in that direction following the destruction he'd quickly caused.

His move.

---

SPOILER: Click to show

NAME: Doton:Tobi Tsubute [Earth Release:Flying Stones]
RANK: C
CHAKRA USAGE: Medium
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu
ELEMENT: Doton
HANDSEALS: 6 - Dog → Tiger → Snake → Dog → Rat → Snake → Slam hands on the ground
DESCRIPTION:
After slamming his/her hands on the ground, One sends a multitude of rocks from the ground to fly at the target. These rocks are around the size of small boulders and can kill people if hit dead on. It is effective as a crowd control Ninjutsu. Extremely common in Iwagakure no Sato.

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[Tokonatsu Touwa]

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Touwa felt the adrenaline coursing through his veins as he crouched behind the thick bushes, the echo of Hotarubi's distant footsteps reverberating in the air. The dense foliage around him provided a temporary shield, but the impending challenge was now all too real. The jungle seemed to hold its breath, waiting for the clash of wills between student and mentor.
[break][break]
As the seconds ticked away, Touwa's mind raced, processing the chaos unfolding around him. Hotarubi's stomping, a deliberate tactic to keep track of his movements, resonated through the vibrant landscape. The vibrant greens of Bonchi no Kuni that had initially provided a sense of camouflage now felt like a double-edged sword.
[break][break]
Touwa knew he had to make a decision – run, hide, or fight. Touwa's decision crystallized within him, a surge of determination propelling him forward. The chaos of the jungle became his ally as he swiftly closed the distance between himself and Hotarubi. The timing was crucial, and Touwa seized the moment when Hotarubi, engrossed in the aftermath of his own calculated destruction, turned away.
[break][break]
With a silent burst of speed, Touwa emerged from the cover of the foliage, his footsteps masked by the echoes of destruction. Closing in on Hotarubi, Touwa's focus sharpened as he prepared to unleash his taijutsu skills. Hotarubi's senses, attuned to the environment, betrayed no awareness of the impending strike or so Touwa thought.
[break][break]
As he neared, Touwa pivoted, executing a rapid spin to generate momentum. His right leg swung in a controlled arc, aiming for Hotarubi's midsection. The attack was precise and well-calculated. His form was fluid as if he was gifted in taijutsu by nature itself, and his strike aimed to exploit an opening in Hotarubi's defenses.
[break][break]

SPOILER: Click to show

斬術 | Zanjutsu [lit. Cutting Technique]
[break][break]
The Araikettei clan's KKG allows the user to obtain and wield the Life Blade - Ruiteki. The blade has its own consciousness and is capable of acting on its own. Regardless, Touwa and his Life Blade are inextricably linked to life and death. When one dies, the other dies, and thus anyone who is not Touwa is unable to wield the weapon.
[break][break]
鐘剣道 | Kane Kendo [lit. Bell Sword Way]
[break][break]
After investing a significant amount of time Touwa has achieved an understanding of his lifeblade. As a result, he has unlocked the ability to establish communication with them. This newfound connection enables Touwa to effectively manipulate and mold the lifeblade according to his desires. Harnessing the power of the Araikettei clan's hijutsu, Touwa now possesses the capability to skillfully utilize various techniques through the embodiment of Ruiteki itself.

[attr="class","ooc-area"]WORD: 284
[break]
Akira

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[Akira]

Under the organised chaos of the day Hotarubi would allow Touwa to believe that he had a grip on things. He would develop the confidence even if at heart futile.

Though Touwa had been quiet, Hotarubi's expression didn't seem surprised as he turned. Hotarubi would turn - knowing roughly what Touwa was doing but would see it actualised when his vision caught wind of Touwa. The ambivalent response of his eyes looking down to his foot - to hit against Touwa's body. The man would block: raising a fist up to his own chest so that Touwa would strike against the lower part of his arm and elbow. He smiled, Touwa had spirit and the choice to engage him directly was stupid, but it was brave.

Had there been silent judgement? Touwa would get the ever resounding thud of feeling against his body. The Sp. Jonin would push out his arm, to allow him the chance to press off with his opposite foot and get some space. The man would punch the earth: with ferocity and sending the topsoil and shards of rock sky high. While not strong enough to turn the training ground into a crater, would sufficiently bruise the boy if taken by the surrounding small projectiles.

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[Tokonatsu Touwa]

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As Touwa's leg sliced through the air towards Hotarubi, he felt a surge of anticipation mixed with apprehension. His senses were heightened, his muscles primed for action. In that split second before impact, time seemed to slow, allowing him to absorb every detail of the scene before him.
[break][break]
But just as his strike was about to connect, Hotarubi's reaction was swift and calculated. Touwa's eyes widened in surprise as Hotarubi deftly blocked his attack with a well-placed forearm, redirecting the force of the blow downwards. The impact reverberated through Touwa's body.
[break][break]
As Touwa recoiled from the force of Hotarubi's counterattack, his senses were overwhelmed by a sudden barrage of small projectiles. Sharp shards of rock and patches of soil pelted his body, leaving stinging welts in their wake. The impact was unexpected, sending shockwaves of pain rippling through his skin. Touwa was guaranteed to wake up with bruises tomorrow.
[break][break]
As the sting of the projectiles subsided, Touwa's mind started to work once again. He wouldn't let himself be beaten down by this. With a swift motion, he reached for a few training kunai tucked into his belt, his fingers wrapping around the familiar handles with practiced ease.
[break][break]
With a focused glare, Touwa hurled the few kunai toward Hotarubi, aiming not to harm but to create a distraction. The few kunai flashed through the air. But even as the kunai sailed through the air, Touwa didn't hesitate. In one fluid motion, he lunged forward once again, his muscles coiled like a spring ready to strike.
[break][break]
As Touwa closed in on his target, his focus narrowed solely to Hotarubi's center of mass. With a rapid series of strikes, he would aim to disrupt Hotarubi's balance. His first strike would be a feint, a fast jab aimed at Hotarubi's midsection designed to draw his attention downward.
[break][break]
Next, with a swift pivot of his body, Touwa's right leg would arc through the air in a controlled motion, aiming to sweep Hotarubi's legs out from under him. Touwa was now aiming to try and get Hotarubi to fall. But would that work?
[break][break]

SPOILER: Click to show

斬術 | Zanjutsu [lit. Cutting Technique]
[break][break]
The Araikettei clan's KKG allows the user to obtain and wield the Life Blade - Ruiteki. The blade has its own consciousness and is capable of acting on its own. Regardless, Touwa and his Life Blade are inextricably linked to life and death. When one dies, the other dies, and thus anyone who is not Touwa is unable to wield the weapon.
[break][break]
鐘剣道 | Kane Kendo [lit. Bell Sword Way]
[break][break]
After investing a significant amount of time Touwa has achieved an understanding of his lifeblade. As a result, he has unlocked the ability to establish communication with them. This newfound connection enables Touwa to effectively manipulate and mold the lifeblade according to his desires. Harnessing the power of the Araikettei clan's hijutsu, Touwa now possesses the capability to skillfully utilize various techniques through the embodiment of Ruiteki itself.

[attr="class","ooc-area"]WORD: 347
[break]
Akira

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[newclass=.sidebar .text-area]grid-area: text; text-align: justify;[/newclass]
[newclass=.sidebar .text-area b]font-weight: 500; color: #327380; text-decoration: none; [/newclass]
[newclass=.sidebar .ooc-area]padding: 8px 0; border: 1px dotted #327380; border-left: 0; border-right: 0; font-size: 10px; line-height: 14px; grid-area: ooc; align-self: flex-end[/newclass]
[newclass=.sidebar .ooc-area a]letter-spacing: .6px; font: 500 10px/15px 'Fira Sans',arial; text-decoration: none; color: #327380; text-transform: uppercase;[/newclass]