[Hōzuki Mizuki]

As dusk faded and gave way to night, the Hidden Mist Village was swathed in an enigmatic blanket of shadow. This was a world where secrets whispered and unseen dangers roamed freely, a time when the village's vulnerabilities were most exposed. Unluckily for Mizuki they had been tasked with standing in for one of the gate guards that kept track of who entered and exited the village. They normally tried to avoid this kind of duty because most of the time it was a lot of sitting and not a lot of action.

For this assignment in particular, Mizuki was positioned strategically atop a section of the imposing perimeter wall; they had assumed a form that was both typical for them and exceptionally effective for this task—a mere 30cm water blob. In this amorphous, fluid state, they became almost invisible against the backdrop of the night, their presence was known only to those who knew where to look.

As the hours crept by, Mizuki's chakra sensory abilities unfurled like invisible tendrils, reaching out across a vast 2-kilometer radius. Their senses were heightened, attuned to every subtle change in the environment. They listened for the whispers of the wind, the rustle of leaves, and the soft footfalls that might betray an intruder's presence. Their eyes, though not needed in their current form, seemed to pierce through the darkness, scrutinizing every detail of the moonlit landscape.

The role of a guard, especially during these late hours of night, wasn’t all that difficult; you simply needed to remain alert for hours until someone came to relieve you of your duty.. It was a simple sounding task that was a demanding mental exercise in practice that tested a shinobi’s endurance and focus. Mizuki was acutely aware of this, but a deep sigh would escape the little blob nonetheless.

The village, with its meandering streets and hidden alleyways, lay peaceful under their gaze. They were the unseen guardian, the protector in the shadows… they were bored; and despite being so utterly bored, their drive to not fail any mission or official task helped keep the little blob awake. This was largely the reason they hadn’t requested being a gate guard in any capacity. Nothing interesting ever happened.


Shouki Shizuka

[Shouki Shizuka]

Shizuka squinted through the slit in her mask. In the distance, the wall was dark, and she could barely make out any details. It was dark in the alleys and on the streets, and if she made it so far, it would be dark on the river as well. That suited her fine, since her objective was to slip out of the village unnoticed.

She wore a heavy black cloak, embroidered on its hems with purple clouds outlined in golden thread. The mask concealing her face was a solid ocean blue, with a single horizontal slit allowing vision. She was dead tired. Every morning she rose early for chores, then trained hard in the afternoon to maintain her abilities. Shizuka hoped her exhausted chakra reserves might help her evade detection past the wall.

The spot she chose to scale was not a bad one. It was as far from the main entrances as possible, and if any sensors stationed at the gate houses were lax, an individual with a chakra signature as faint as hers might be lucky enough to cross unnoticed. Luck was not on her side tonight though - the spot she picked was directly guarded by Hozuki Mizuki.

From their vantage point, Mizuki would be able to watch Shizuka approach the wall and inspect her equipment. Some papers, a grappling hook, a belt. Shizuka lingered longest on a piece of paper which appeared to be a letter. She held it like she was reading it, though that would be impossible in the darkness.

When she was finished, Shizuka stowed the letter in one of her pockets and sighed. From what she could tell, there was noone atop this section of the wall - it was now or never. She moved quickly. With her back against the wall, she tossed the grappling hook upwards. It binded tightly, and in the next moment she was on the wall, then over. She didn't waste any time checking her landing, and when she was on the ground again, she dashed, putting as much distance as she could between her and the village.

I should've been more prepared for this. If I had anticipated Master making this sort of demand I'd never have to risk so much...

[Hōzuki Mizuki]

Mizuki's keen senses, honed through rigorous training and heightened by their unique abilities, picked up a disturbance from a distance. A figure, cloaked in darkness, was approaching the wall. This genin, Shizuka, moved with a determined stealth that intrigued Mizuki, finally injecting a dose of excitement into the otherwise dull night. Their boredom was swiftly replaced by anticipation and maybe even a little intrigue. Finally, something was happening, a break from the endless waiting.

As Shizuka prepared to scale the wall, Mizuki watched intently. Their form, still that of a water blob, offered perfect camouflage against the backdrop of the night. They observed as Shizuka lingered over a piece of paper, likely a letter, before meticulously stowing it away. Then, with a swift motion, she tossed her grappling hook upwards and began her ascent.

The moment Shizuka cleared the wall and landed on the other side, Mizuki seized their opportunity. With a fluidity and speed that betrayed their little blobby form, they jumped from the roof and quickly transformed into their human form. This transformation was swift and silent, a testament to their mastery of switching forms. Now they were at their usual 5'2", with blue silvery hair and a long, fuzzy brown scarf wrapped around their neck.

They landed deftly, just feet behind Shizuka. Mizuki stood calmly, their eyes holding a small flicker of excitement. For Mizuki, this was a moment they had been waiting for, an opportunity to act and break the monotony of their watch. Without much fanfare, Mizuki cleared their throat rather loudly with the intent of grabbing the attention of the child that was currently in the process of breaking the law.

The air was charged with tension that was broken by Mizuki’s soft and calm voice, "Sorry, but people usually aren’t authorized to leave over the wall,” the small Hozuki would simply gesture back in the direction of the closest gate which was pretty far away from this part of the wall, "It’d be a lot easier for both of us if you checked out at the gate. Granted I’d love a little break from sitting on the wall, but I really don’t want to break a kid’s legs, ya know.” In a moment like this Mizuki felt like it was important to be honest so that Shizuka knew exactly what the consequences were.

If they tried to run, Mizuki would do whatever it took to render them immobile.


Shouki Shizuka

[Shouki Shizuka]

Mizuki's cough pierced Shizuka like a needle through her spine. She stopped, turned, and tried - desperately - to project more gravitas than a child caught with their fingers in the cookie jar. Her left hand gripped the Kiri headband she wore around her neck nervously.

Shit.

Suddenly, Shizuka wasn't so tired anymore. She spoke slowly and clearly, trying to regain her lost composure.

"Respectfully, circumstances require my departure go unrecorded." She surveyed the ninja who blocked her escape. Mizuki was not an imposing figure - a youthful face, diminutive height, and soft voice rendered their threat rather gentle. Shizuka was well aware that appearances were deceptive, though, especially in the shinobi world. Some of the most skilled members of the village, including the Mizukage himself, were not even twenty years of age.

They're alone. A young chuunin, perhaps? Not impossible to escape if I use the 'gate pass.'

Shizuka felt her rising heartbeat spread heat and energy throughout her entire body - the familiar cloying grip of fear and adrenaline. She clutched the fear in a fist, bringing it to meet her open palm in front of her face, and bowed in a solemn gesture of respect. When she finally rose and spoke again, her tone was tranquil, lacking any panic.

"Unfortunately, my associate is waiting patiently for my arrival, so I must cut our meeting short. If you give me your name, however, I will excuse your rudeness and recommend your diligence to my superior."

Shizuka had no expectation that her bluff would work. If her futile attempt to emulate a higher ranking shinobi amused the individual stopping her, however, they may let down their guard enough for her to make a move.

[Hōzuki Mizuki]

Mizuki's sudden cough had alerted the young girl to Mizuki’s presence, so it was apparent that they weren’t super aware of their surroundings. If she had dropped down behind a higher ranked shinobi, they likely would have been immediately aware of their presence. They watched Shizuka closely, recognizing the nervousness in her demeanor as she gripped her Kiri headband and attempted to regain her composure.

As Shizuka began to speak, Mizuki remained silent, listening carefully to her words and paying close attention to the shift in tone. They understood the gravity of the situation and the need for discretion. Mizuki’s job was to secure this area and prevent casual entry or exit from any individuals, and they were well aware of the importance of secrets in the shinobi world so there was always the possibility that someone might leave over the wall, granted the fact that the girl needed a grappling hook made the situation much more unlikely that order came from the Mizukage.

When Shizuka mentioned her associate waiting for her arrival, Mizuki's keen senses caught the subtle shift in her tone. It was clear that the girl had been panicked at first, but now she was calm? Mizuki couldn't help but be intrigued by the sudden shift. Her initial impression was that she was lying. Had Shizuka been a higher ranking shinobi with orders to leave the village, they would have known or been informed of all sensors lining the walls so that initial panic would have been unwarranted.

Casually scratching the back of their head in contemplation, Mizuki responded with a gentle, though skeptical tone, "I'm Mizuki. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance; but if that circumstance for needing to leave unrecorded isn’t from the Mizukage himself then you gotta exit through the gate and I have a handful of reasons to suspect that probably isn’t the case" The young Hozuki would sigh at the absurdness of the situation. She was most likely a genin, and with how heavy her footfalls were she definitely wasn’t like the hunter nin that moved almost silently.

Mizuki's words conveyed both sincerity but were laced with a thick skepticism of the current situation. "Look, with the whole grappling hook thing, you’re like what, a genin? It looked like you were staring at a piece of paper, granted my darkvision isn’t the best. If you’re trying to hand deliver a letter to your boyfriend or something you can just request a proper escort and leave out the gate like everyone else.”



Shouki Shizuka

[Shouki Shizuka]

Mizuki. No clan name? That isn't very helpful. And a boyfriend? How laughable. They clearly have no idea who I am.

Mizuki's response was calm and collected. Their relaxed demeanor put Shizuka at ease, and soon the energy and tension of her adrenaline burst faded away. Briefly, Shizuka's thoughts strayed towards simply listening to them, and letting go. Perhaps if she apologized, they would simply let her back over the wall without consequence.

...No half measures.

It was too late for that, though. Her resolve was steeled the moment she crossed the wall - or earlier, when her mother delivered the letter from her master that morning. Still, Mizuki's gentle tone invited ideas beyond simply giving up. Shizuka believed there might be merit in showing them the letter - as long as they were listening to her, it would add credibility to her story. And even if Mizuki did not believe her, they might pity her. They might let down their guard.

"I have a pass. I can show it to you," Shizuka stated with confidence. She stepped forward, reaching within her cloak for some carefully folded papers. With the finesse of a magician, she let the letter spill out too. It floated directly into Mizuki's hands. The letter was short - written with a shaky hand on stained, old, fragile paper. It was noticeably torn on its edges, as if it was taken from an old book or journal.

Little Haya, another year has passed. My visitors have again noted your absence during celebrations. I am in good health, and wish to go to sea. Your presence is required. Come at once. I will be waiting.

Shizuka gave Mizuki just long enough to read the message before she protested. "That's not it. That's - that's private. The pass is here." She stepped closer and thrust forward the folded papers. These were of higher quality, typical of official documents like gate passes. If Mizuki unfolded them though, they would discover Shizuka's trick: an improvised paper flash bomb.

Shizuka was prepared. The moment Mizuki tried to open her 'gate pass,' she would attempt a body flicker technique to flee while they were blinded. The sparse forest outside of the village was still over fifty paces away, but if she reached it, she figured her chances of making it to the river would improve.

SPOILER: Click to show

Equipment and Jutsu Used
NAME: Shunshin no Jutsu [Body Flicker Technique]
RANK: D
CHAKRA USAGE: Low
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu [General]
ELEMENT: None
HANDSEALS: 1
DESCRIPTION:

By invigorating one's entire body with chakra, a shinobi can seemingly disappear and reappear in another location faster than most people can see. Often times one's movements are disguised with the use of an extra element, be it a smoke bomb, leaves, water, sand, etc. in order to hide the user's trajectory from those with skilled eyes. Though it mimics teleportation, it is important to remember this jutsu merely boosts the agility of its user. As useful as this technique is, it can only be used 4 times in a battle thread, compounding in exertion and difficulty each time. with any more usages beyond that result in muscle tears in the legs from overexertion. The hand seal for this technique must be held until the shinobi reaches their destination, making it impossible to utilize other techniques regardless of any preparation.


NAME: Flash Bombs
CLASSIFICATION: Supplementary
DESCRIPTION:

Flash bombs are used for diversions, creating a blinding light when they detonate. They come in small paper spheres and occasionally in the same form of explosive tags. When they are ignited they shine in one direction for 5 meters. Anyone caught in these will be temporarily blinded, thus giving the user an opportunity to flee or attack.

[Hōzuki Mizuki]

Mizuki listened attentively as Shizuka spoke, their senses still keenly aware of the situation at hand and a hint of skepticism in their expression. When Shizuka mentioned having a pass, Mizuki maintained their calm demeanor but remained vigilant. As Shizuka reached into her cloak for the folded papers, Mizuki reacted swiftly, knowing there wasn’t any kind of pass that would give this kid permission to leave the way they did, what she was doing was practically on the verge of becoming a criminal.

The first time Shizuka produced papers the young girl had taken care not to extend her hand too much. Mizuki was waiting for the opportune time for the young girl to over extend just a little bit; for now, Mizuki would catch the small piece of paper and just sigh at the obvious torn edges. Not only were there no passes to get out of a situation like this, there was no world where Stony Face Toru would ever write orders on a torn piece of paper. Mizuki would just sigh as they noted out loud, "There’s no way the Mizukage would write a pass out on a torn piece of paper.”

Just as Shizuka's hand emerged from her cloak a second time, however, Mizuki's left arm would deftly transform into a watery blob and dart towards the young girl’s wrist, extending with speed and precision to ensnare Shizuka's arm that had the document in it. At the same time Mizuki would reach for the letter with their right hand to hopefully distract the young child from their left. Hopefully with the distraction, the young girl lacking information on Mizuki's clan, the relative speed of the jutsu as well as the lack of hand signs, and the skill difference between them would make it nigh impossible for the young child to evade such a close quarters capture.

The liquid restraints would quickly mold around the young girl’s wrist, firmly but not painfully, and once her arm had taken the proper shape it’d harden into a set of metal manacles that were attached to Mizuki’s body via a metal chain. The young genin had clearly not understood that there weren’t any kind of passes to leave the village, so this paper was obviously a farce as well.

Mizuki would finally address the situation more directly with a serious tone, whether they caught the child or not, where the softness she had originally approached with was gone, "I know you’re young and haven’t met Stone Face-san, but he was a perfectionist even back in the academy. The idea of a pass might exist as an exception in other villages, but there is no world where the Mizukage would hand out a pass like this let alone a pass written on a torn piece of paper."

Mizuki's focus remained on the girl, making it clear that any further attempts at escape or deception would not be tolerated. Mizuki would hold up the letter and simply ask, "Also, I don’t know what they teach in the academy nowadays, but you also shouldn’t open or entertain notes like this unless you are expecting them. There are so many booby traps and bombs that could be triggered by opening something like this.”

Assuming everything went as planned, Mizuki would stuff the ‘gate pass’ into their pocket and tug at the chain that had replaced her left arm and slowly start pulling the young girl in the direction of the gate. Assuming she didn’t resist this would be fine, but if she did it’d be a bit of an issue cause of how small Mizuki actually was, "Come on, this'll just be easier if you come with me. Any more resistance and I start shooting out knee caps and letting a medic handle the rest."




Shouki Shizuka

SPOILER: Click to show

NAME: Mōfu [Morph]
RANK: C
CHAKRA USAGE: low
REQUIREMENTS: Zōkyō
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu
ELEMENT: Water
DESCRIPTION:

Armed with the knowledge of Zōkyō the user is able to put the technique into actual combat use. By using the Hijutsu of the Hozuki the user transforms either their arm, leg or even entire body into liquid. While in this state the user is able to use their chakra to mold their body into any item of their choosing. The larger the item, the larger amount of chakra used. The item is charged with chakra, able to withstand attacks from metal objects alike and melee attacks. A full body transformation would cost significantly more than transforming a single arm or leg, into either a sword or spear. The weaponry used is capable of cutting through flesh but not bone. Able to cut wood and stone, but not able to cut through them. The time it takes to create an item with this technique takes only moments. However, when struck with an attack of Raiton origin, not only will the user be shocked but the technique will disperse as well.

Note: Items include swords, axes and the like. Shields and even body armor.

[Shouki Shizuka]

Mizuki didn't read the letter. They barely glanced at it, not letting down their guard for an instant. Shizuka was both impressed and annoyed. Even if her chances of success were low to begin with, it still hurt to fail.

Shizuka noticed Mizuki's hostile intentions as soon as she moved to give away her false 'pass.' Reflexively, chakra shot into her heels to give her speed to evade - it took all her willpower to resist her training - allow herself to be caught. Her escape hinged on Mizuki's carelessness, not on a contest of skill. It was a pleasant coincidence that refusing to evade left her pride intact - at least for a moment.

The warm and wet sensation of being grabbed by Mizuki's blob-hand was far from Shizuka's expectations. She was left confused while the liquid solidified into hard steel. Then she realized what had happened to her.

Hozuki. Hozuki Mizuki. The name was familiar. Zuki...zuki?

The realization struck Shizuka like a storm. She had met Mizuki before at the academy. One of dozens of students from other classes she made an effort to share food with. Some of them she even had nicknames for.

Still, it wasn't enough that Shizuka was merely acquainted with Mizuki. They wouldn't let her free just for that. If anything, they might be more cautious given her previous escape attempt, though that was years ago now. Shizuka's mind whirled with calculations as Mizuki took a more stern tone with her. How could she make them open the false pass? And free her from the restraints?

"W- wait! There's been a mistake! Z- Zukizuki, don't you remember me? Shizuka-chan?" Shizuka removed her mask, revealing a desperate smile. "I do know Stoney- er, the esteemed Hachidaime Mizukage. He was the one who gave me that pass, as a special favour." Shizuka was improvising now. But why in hell would Toru give a genin special privileges? Even one he knew from the academy?

"You see, I have a teacher outside of the village, who is very important to me. Except, my clan doesn't approve of me visiting him." Shizuka made a show of composing herself again. "If I were to leave by normal channels, the Shouki clan would discover and cause me suffering. When I expressed my worries to Toru-kun - er, to the- uhm- Mizu- uhm- he- he gave me this special pass." Beneath the feigned panic, Shizuka was still calm. "I was supposed to hand this off on the wall but- but you weren't there so I just- you know- I'm sorry."

Shizuka's mind continued to turn. Mizuki might open the false pass now, but what if they left her in restraints? They were too cautious. Could she cut the chain? She had a kunai and a free hand - no, that would never work. She had truly blundered now. But as hopelessness began to set in, a single thought fell on her, like a blackened arrow. It wasn't the chain she had to cut. It was her flesh. But even if Mizuki opened the pass, could she go through with it?

[Hōzuki Mizuki]

Once Shizuka’s wrist had been properly shackled and secured Mizuki would let out a sigh of relief given the situation. It’d be a terrible blemish for a genin to escape during their first watch presiding over the wall of the village. This at least made their escape much less likely, even if they tried to shunshin at this point Mizuki would simply be taken on a wild ride, but they definitely weren’t getting out of these cuffs without a struggle.

When Shizuka hit her with the Zukizuki, Mizuki’s eyebrow would raise as they tried to get a better look at the girl’s face in the cover of night. They’d never really been a big fan of the nickname, but very few people actually referred to them with such a familiar nickname. The young Hozuki started searching through their mind palace to recall this girl. They weren’t close during the academy, but memories started flowing back about the times that Shizuka had tried to share food with her and unfortunately for Shizuka Mizuki also remembered stories of their several escape attempts.

"I do remember you, Shizuka-chan," Mizuki acknowledged her acquaintance but didn't let her guard down. The young Hozuki dug the note back out of their pocket with her other hand and sighed before they presented it, "but you have to understand. You should remember how much of a hardass Toru was, and having gone on a mission with him recently I can confirm that hasn’t changed. There’s no world in which he’d give you a letter to bypass one of his own rules. Also, there’s no official seal or anything on the letter to indicate that it came from the Mizukage’s office." Mizuki would keep the envelope in hand before getting to the crux of the matter.

Mizuki would explain the situation rather matter-of-factly as they saw it followed by a question, "I’ll just give you my honest read of the situation. If this letter was dangerous to open it would have to be some sort of Fuuinjutsu, and given the fact that you handed it to me in close proximity I have to assume that it won’t explode cause that’d have a chance to put you out of commission too. Whatever it is though, I would probably create a clone to open it at a distance to prevent it from affecting me, whatever it is. If it does something and I have to leave you crippled to prevent you from leaving I'll do that. With that in mind do you really want me to open this, or do you perhaps want to tell me why you’re actually leaving? We could just talk this out.”

They knew that Shizuka might try something desperate to escape, they were known for doing just that; but with Mizuki's left arm still in the form of a shackle and chain, it'd be a crazy difficult task to escape even if they opened the letter personally. The note was largely a mystery, it honestly could actually be permission from the Mizukage but there was no world where Mizuki would open the letter herself. Despite being willing to grant some leniency in the current situation given their slightly entwined past, there was no world where Mizuki would ever open a letter or note directly that they weren’t expecting to get, especially if it didn’t have the proper seals or markings.

Shouki Shizuka

SPOILER: Click to show

NAME: Mōfu [Morph]
RANK: C
CHAKRA USAGE: low
REQUIREMENTS: Zōkyō
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu
ELEMENT: Water
DESCRIPTION:

Armed with the knowledge of Zōkyō the user is able to put the technique into actual combat use. By using the Hijutsu of the Hozuki the user transforms either their arm, leg or even entire body into liquid. While in this state the user is able to use their chakra to mold their body into any item of their choosing. The larger the item, the larger amount of chakra used. The item is charged with chakra, able to withstand attacks from metal objects alike and melee attacks. A full body transformation would cost significantly more than transforming a single arm or leg, into either a sword or spear. The weaponry used is capable of cutting through flesh but not bone. Able to cut wood and stone, but not able to cut through them. The time it takes to create an item with this technique takes only moments. However, when struck with an attack of Raiton origin, not only will the user be shocked but the technique will disperse as well.

Note: Items include swords, axes and the like. Shields and even body armor.

[Shouki Shizuka]

Shizuka revealing herself gave her captor pause, buying her more time. Time alone would not be enough to release her from her circumstance, though. And as Mizuki spoke once again, it became obvious they would never fall into Shizuka's trap. Mizuki's voice, clear as glass, began to grate on Shizuka's nerves. She did not understand why at first, but the longer Mizuki spoke the more her anger grew.

Mizuki was intent on subduing her with words alone. This was the issue, the intractable problem at hand. So long as Mizuki refrained from action, there remained a crack - a crack whose state, imagined or real, would be discovered only by plunging one's fingers into the gap. Whether it would close and trap her, or open a path towards escape, was left to skill, chance, and fate. Shizuka would never allow herself to stand before the heavens with the excuse 'I saw a crack, but it was too narrow to climb.' It was her sacred duty to seize upon even the most meager of openings in order to complete her filial obligations.

The shackle around her wrist was the first obstacle in Shizuka's way. The time Mizuki had given her was enough for Shizuka to realize what a foolish plan severing her own hand would be. It was meaningless to be free of the chain if she would collapse before she made it to the river. Shizuka needed to force Mizuki to release her. Originally, she had dismissed the idea of using Mizuki's own chain against them. While she was trained in some kusari-jutsu, a Hozuki could easily transform and foil any such attempt. This moment of transformation, however, was exactly the opening Shizuka needed. In their transformed state, the Hozuki clan were nearly immune to physical harm - a fist or kunai would simply pass through their body with little effect. They were not immune to poison, however, and the Shouki clan could release toxins from every pore on their body. So long as Shizuka did not miss the timing, even a single second of submersion would be enough to expose Mizuki. The poison of a Shouki clan genin was not particularly powerful - it could only slow them down. But that would have to be enough.

Shizuka's killing intent broke through the night like a bolt of lightning. Her hostile attitude was apparent despite the darkness - a readied stance, a firm grip on the chain, poison already leaking from her captured hand and hanging in the air from every exhaled breath. She carried herself with more poise than any cornered genin had right to.

"All I've done is talk." Shizuka's tone was sharp now, accusing. "As if there is a single word I can say which will change your mind. Release me and open my pass, so we can be done with this."

Shizuka had no intention of waiting long. She steeled her resolve again, finally understanding her anger. She judged Mizuki, unfairly, as the sort who built trust with words, and broke it with actions. This was more projection than anything. Regardless, Shizuka already made her choice. The instant Mizuki opened their mouth, made a move to create a clone, or anything else - she would take action. With a lunge, she would send the chain coiling around her former classmate's neck. And if she was lucky, Mizuki would make the mistake of transforming entirely, allowing Shizuka to poison them and flee with a shunshin.

[Hōzuki Mizuki]

Mizuki maintained a stoic composure as Shizuka's words sliced through the heavy silence, their eyes unwavering despite the crackling tension that hung thick in the air, reminiscent of static electricity dancing in the darkness. In the shadowy embrace of night, the genin's resolve was palpable, her intentions casting a stark clarity upon the scene.

Beneath the surface, Shizuka's simmering anger hinted at the gravity of the situation, each passing moment pregnant with anticipation and laden with the weight of their impending choices. Mizuki, acutely aware of the unfolding dynamics, understood the game that played out before them. The standoff demanded more than mere words; it called for decisive action, the consequences of which loomed uncertain yet inevitable.

Mizuki understood the game that was unfolding before them. Words alone would not resolve this standoff; action was inevitable, the outcome uncertain. Yet, as Shizuka's hostility flared like a beacon in the night, Mizuki remained poised, their resolve unshaken.

But then, in an instant, the stalemate shattered.

With a resigned sigh, Mizuki formed a simple finger gun with their right hand and let the words slip from their disappointed expression, "That’s a shame.” That was when Shizuka’s plan kicked into action and lunged forward, her intent clear. The chain, once a shackle, now transformed into a weapon, coiled with lethal purpose.

Mizuki made no real attempt to escape the choke at first, as they simply pointed their finger gun at the right leg of Shizuka point blank and unleashed a bullet of water. The shot echoed through the night, a sharp crack that shattered the silence like glass. The bullet assuming it found its mark, would hit the genin directly in the knee and shatter the bone. Given the situation, at this range it was probably going to be difficult to dodge.

After the shot rang out, Mizuki, perhaps a tad too eager to demonstrate their Hōzuki abilities, would unveil a dazzling display of their abilities. Their neck would seamlessly morph into water, allowing the chain to pass through without resistance, while Mizuki remained virtually unscathed. Amidst the chaos, their voice rang out with a mixture of admonishment and frustration, "It's time to face reality, Shizuka. You need to grow up and stop trying to run away from the village."

Mizuki's action was swift, decisive. In the chaos of the moment, they understood the necessity of their actions, the weight of their duty pressing down upon them like a leaden cloak. Mizuki would have preferred to handle the situation with words, but it seemed like Shizuka was resigned for the situation to get resolved with force. As the echoes of the gunshot faded into the night, Mizuki stood firm, their resolve unyielding amidst the tumult. The outcome of this encounter remained uncertain, but one thing was clear: Mizuki would not falter and let the young genin leave, even if it meant shattering a kneecap or two.

Even if the bullet missed the mark, Shizuka was at a stark disadvantage. Mizuki was probably immune to most of what they could do to them.


Shouki Shizuka

SPOILER: Click to show

NAME: Suika no jutsu [Hydrification Technique]
RANK: D
CHAKRA USAGE: Very Low
CLASSIFICATION: Hijutsu
ELEMENT: Water
DESCRIPTION:

This technique makes it impossible to receive damage from physical attacks. From a single hair, to the skin and muscles, everything can be liquefied and solidified at will. Be it to evade an enemy's attack during a short range battle, to infiltrate a structure, or to launch a surprise attack in a liquefied state, this technique boasts a high strategic value. Applying this technique, the user can also modify their body parts for suitable situations or even use the liquid as projectiles. In order to use this technique, the user must remain hydrated, lest the user not being able to use this or other Hozuki techniques.

The only way to contain a user of this technique is to lock them up in an airtight container so they cannot move about. When the user passes out, they turn into a jelly-like state. Since this technique turns the body into water, the Hōzuki are extremely vulnerable to Lightning Release techniques. Along with Scorch Release techniques.

[Shouki Shizuka]

The critical moment had finally come. Shizuka lunged forward with all her speed, aiming to wrap the chain around Mizuki's neck and drag them to the ground. Her poison was spread along the chain as far as she could manage. She watched, eyes trained on her opponent's reaction, but found nothing - there was no counter to defend against. She heard a crack - two - in the same instant both in front and behind her, but never saw the attack. The night was too dark and the bullet too fast. When Shizuka lost her balance, she thought it was because the poisoned chain had passed through Mizuki's neck without resistance. She only realized her injury when she tried to stand again. Then the pain sent her flat into the dirt, and she knew the critical moment was closed.

Shizuka's free hand found its way to her leg and felt blood. The water bullet had torn its way to bone and caused a painful fracture. While she was applying pressure to the wound, her gaze remained fixed on Mizuki. Calm, like her namesake. From her expression alone, there was no indication Mizuki's blow had landed. Still, fear crept back into Shizuka's mind. With each heartbeat, she was less sure about what came next. She was prepared for everything up until this point - far worse injuries and humiliations would not have surprised her at all. But after her arrest, she was powerless. It made no sense to spend energy worrying about outcomes she could not influence. Now that those consequences were in front of her, Shizuka's fear rose, and stifled her rebellious attitude. When Mizuki said their piece, Shizuka's response was empty, but polite - another complete tonal shift.

"It is as you say, Hozuki-sama, I regret... attempting to flee my responsibilities."

Shizuka collected her thoughts and tried to figure out what hit her. Mizuki's attack had been close to perfect. Without handsigns or preparatory movements, she could only guess at whether it was a hidden weapon or clan technique. Mizuki's defense however, was sloppy. While most of Shizuka's poison was concentrated near the shackle, a significant portion was scattered along the length of the chain. When Mizuki transformed to evade, they absorbed a dangerous amount of it. Even as they spoke, they would feel an icy numbness begin to rise in their throat. Whether they were exposed enough to be fully affected could only be revealed by time.

"Unfortunately I don't think I'll be able to walk. You'll... have to carry me to the gate." Pain and fatigue were gradually beginning to overcome Shizuka. She didn't bother warning Mizuki about the poison still spread over the shackle. If they were foolish enough to transform and poison themselves again - they deserved their fate.

Eventually, Shizuka's thoughts traveled to her master waiting patiently by the riverside. Master Rikishi was, in a word, steadfast. He was the sort of man who could never be defeated. She pitied him - old as he was - waiting the cold night away for a disciple who could not come. He had trained her in traditional fishing techniques for nearly ten years now, and asked for almost nothing in return. Shizuka trusted him more than anyone, with the sole exception of her own mother. Despite the fact she had done everything she could to meet him, when she thought of how long he would wait, grief and regret gripped her, twisting her heart.

What would master tell me at a time like this?

She remembered something he said in passing while they were on the ocean, when a younger Shizuka was concerned about dark clouds in the distance.

'It's okay to die. Sometimes the storm sinks your ship.'

Master Rikishi's words didn't comfort her then, but they did now. He was the sort of person who would accept any outcome, without question, criticism or blame. At the very least, she wouldn't have to worry about him.

[Hōzuki Mizuki]

The sharp crack of the gunshot cracking Shizuka’s bone reverberated through the night, its echoes reaching far beyond the brief struggle between Mizuki and Shizuka. It served as a stark punctuation in the darkness, signaling the swift resolution of their clash, leaving the atmosphere laden with tension and consequence. Mizuki's heart sank at the sight of Shizuka's balance faltering, the exchange ending before the true essence of the fight could unfold.

As Shizuka crumpled to the ground, the weight of her injuries pressing down upon her, Mizuki couldn't help but feel a twinge of regret. Despite merely following orders, the severity of Shizuka's injury at their hands hung heavily on them. With a hesitant pause, Mizuki contemplated the situation.

The consequences of their actions now materialized before them, and the disappointment in the way events had unfolded weighed heavily on their conscience. They knew that Shizuka would carry the memory of this night, the pain serving as a lingering reminder of their encounter. Mizuki sighed, a mixture of disappointment and concern coloring their thoughts about the outcome of this unexpected confrontation.

"I’ll do my best to carry you, Shizuka, but you're not exactly petite," Mizuki remarked, their voice a gentle echo in the enveloping darkness.

Shizuka was a bit bigger than Mizuki’s small frame so it was unlikely they’d be able to pick her up gently with only one free hand. In a moment of decision, Mizuki's chakra surged, a balloon of water in Mizuki’s image separated and solidified into an exact copy of Mizuki. Without hesitation, the clone moved toward Shizuka and lifted her gently, cradling her form with surprising strength for such a small body.

"You know, Shizuka, running away rarely solves anything," Mizuki scolded gently, their disappointment evident in their voice. "Wherever you were planning on going tonight, the village probably would have let you go with a supervisor if you had just gone in an official capacity. I know that might not appeal to you, but it would have been a hell of a lot better than whatever this was."

With the clone carrying Shizuka, Mizuki walked alongside them, still attached to Shizuka through the shackle and chain that had replaced their left arm. The night held the weight of their shared experience, and Mizuki hoped that, despite the pain, Shizuka would hopefully take the right lesson from this. The small Hozuki would slowly carry the girl back to the main gate, and hopefully send her to the hospital to take care of their injuries.

Until they got there though, Shizuka would get a little bit of scolding.

Shouki Shizuka

SPOILER: Click to show

NAME: Mōfu [Morph]
RANK: C
CHAKRA USAGE: low
REQUIREMENTS: Zōkyō
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu
ELEMENT: Water
DESCRIPTION:

Armed with the knowledge of Zōkyō the user is able to put the technique into actual combat use. By using the Hijutsu of the Hozuki the user transforms either their arm, leg or even entire body into liquid. While in this state the user is able to use their chakra to mold their body into any item of their choosing. The larger the item, the larger amount of chakra used. The item is charged with chakra, able to withstand attacks from metal objects alike and melee attacks. A full body transformation would cost significantly more than transforming a single arm or leg, into either a sword or spear. The weaponry used is capable of cutting through flesh but not bone. Able to cut wood and stone, but not able to cut through them. The time it takes to create an item with this technique takes only moments. However, when struck with an attack of Raiton origin, not only will the user be shocked but the technique will disperse as well.

Note: Items include swords, axes and the like. Shields and even body armor.

NAME: Mizufūsen Bunshin [Water Balloon Clone]
RANK: B
CHAKRA USAGE: Low
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu [General]
ELEMENT: Suiton
HANDSEALS: --
REQUIREMENTS: High Chakra Control
DESCRIPTION:

A clone that is created by using the Hydrification Hijutsu of the Hozuki to alter the user's own cells into water. The clones can be as simple in function as a vaguely human shaped bubble for use in the Body Replacement Technique or a completely mobile and sentient clone capable of utilizing any jutsu in the users repertoire. the clones themselves have the ability to travel far from the user and are able to communicate with the original.

Moreover, since the clone has the ability to merge with any existing water source, it is also great for reconnaissance missions. By directly touching the clone with their hand, the user can either absorb the clone back into their body or change the shape of the clone.

Unlike other clone techniques, the Water Balloon Clone doesn't disappear when hit and takes the damage to a certain degree. This makes it the perfect clone technique that makes it nearly impossible to see through. However, the clones are inhibited by the actions of the user, so if they are preoccupied with other tasks the clones will not be able to act to their full potential.

[Shouki Shizuka]

When the clone bent down to lift her, Shizuka inhaled sharply and prepared herself. To her surprise, it didn't hurt. At least no more than she was already dealing with. She was glad Mizuki hadn't decided to drag her all the way to the gate - that was a small mercy. The only response Shizuka gave to Mizuki's jab about her weight was an exasperated sigh. Normally she would happily return with a joke of her own, but the hole in her leg had long since drained her of cheer.

If Gomi could see me now, she'd probably say I'm getting what I deserve for trying to run and hide. Homare would... say the same for breaking the law. Some teammates I have.

Shizuka listened to Mizuki's lecture absentmindedly. Whatever lessons they hoped to impart on her, they would soon learn how difficult a student she was.

"You've got it all wrong." Shizuka strained to reply to Mizuki. "I had to reach Master Rikishi. He asked me to come. I needed to leave. Even if I had the time to ask for an escort..." Shizuka paused, her contempt for requiring a chaperone clear before she continued. "Master wanted me to take him to sea. I'm sure you're clever enough to figure out how that would end."

It was some time before Shizuka spoke again, mostly ignoring whatever efforts Mizuki made to continue scolding her.

"I did run years ago. If you knew what my clan is like - what they really are behind the smoke, you would understand why. Too bad the village doesn't trust chuunin with that information."

Shizuka was referencing the Dokuyoke - a secret ritual the Shouki clan performs on all it's children to render them immune to poison. A thousand toxins inflicted over three years of suffering. Most perished. But Mizuki wouldn't know of the ritual. As far as they were aware, the power of the Shouki clan was a bloodline, just like the Hozuki clan. And if they were a bloodline, the cruel sacrifice of the Shouki clan children could be dismissed as a tragic fact of nature. That was the lie told by the Daimyo and Mizukage for ages, in return for the unflinching loyalty of the Shouki clan.

It wasn't only the Dokuyoke though - as a women, Shizuka was expected to marry early with the hope that she would produce many survivors of the ritual. Naturally, that meant no career as a shinobi. Whatever horrors the clan inflicted on her, Shizuka could endure - even forgive, so long as it was preparation for her service to the village. When she finally understood that path was never open in the first place, she attempted her escape.

[Hōzuki Mizuki]

Mizuki listened attentively as Shizuka spoke, her words carrying the weight of past struggles and unspoken burdens. Despite Mizuki's initial frustration with Shizuka's actions, a sense of empathy stirred within her as she began to comprehend the depth of the younger woman's plight. Granted, their situations likely weren’t exactly the same, but Mizuki could relate to the idea of being put through torture; although that had less to do with the nature of the Hozuki clan and more to do with Mizuki’s mother.

The revelation of Shizuka's past actions and the harrowing reality of her clan's traditions painted a stark picture of the challenges she had faced. As Mizuki absorbed Shizuka's words, their clone gently cradled the injured child in their arms, a silent reminder of the urgency of their situation. As they continued through the dark towards the main entrance of Kirigakure, Mizuki contemplated their words carefully, it was often difficult to relate to someone’s situation without it feeling like they were diminishing the reality for the other person.

"I might not understand what your clan did to you or your general situation," Mizuki murmured softly, her voice tinged with sympathy. "It's clear that you've faced hardships most couldn't even imagine, but that’s just the nature of this world. I don’t know if I’ve ever told you, but my mother was a real..." Mizuki would pause contemplating whether or not to call her a bitch, before reluctantly using a different word, "perfectionist.”

Mizuki paused, allowing a moment of silence to hang between them, before finally elaborating, "My mother used to believe that anything less than perfection deserved reprimand. Back before I could transform into water that came in the form of severe beatings and I guess what you might call torture. Once I could transform into water to evade her physical reprimands, I would often spend days or even weeks inside a bottle or receive intense electric shocks as punishment.”

Mizuki would let a sigh escape their lips, "Either way, I’m not saying that to diminish your situation. The point is, that you might feel trapped by the system you live in, but if you reach out to Stone Face-san or talk to someone with pull I’m sure they can figure out something to help your situation." As the words left Mizuki’s lips as they considered whether Toru would willingly disrupt a clan’s traditions to help someone out. It seemed more likely that if Shizuka came to him he might weigh the pros and cons of helping her in the situation and come to his own conclusion.

Needless to say, even Mizuki was a little skeptical of the advice she gave. When she had reached out for help with her situation she reached out to the Hozuki clan head who didn’t condone what Mizuki’s mother was doing. Toru was a bit more pragmatic, but she was sure that Toru would take the concern seriously at least.


Shouki Shizuka

SPOILER: Click to show

NAME: Mōfu [Morph]
RANK: C
CHAKRA USAGE: low
REQUIREMENTS: Zōkyō
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu
ELEMENT: Water
DESCRIPTION:

Armed with the knowledge of Zōkyō the user is able to put the technique into actual combat use. By using the Hijutsu of the Hozuki the user transforms either their arm, leg or even entire body into liquid. While in this state the user is able to use their chakra to mold their body into any item of their choosing. The larger the item, the larger amount of chakra used. The item is charged with chakra, able to withstand attacks from metal objects alike and melee attacks. A full body transformation would cost significantly more than transforming a single arm or leg, into either a sword or spear. The weaponry used is capable of cutting through flesh but not bone. Able to cut wood and stone, but not able to cut through them. The time it takes to create an item with this technique takes only moments. However, when struck with an attack of Raiton origin, not only will the user be shocked but the technique will disperse as well.

Note: Items include swords, axes and the like. Shields and even body armor.

NAME: Mizufūsen Bunshin [Water Balloon Clone]
RANK: B
CHAKRA USAGE: Low
CLASSIFICATION: Ninjutsu [General]
ELEMENT: Suiton
HANDSEALS: --
REQUIREMENTS: High Chakra Control
DESCRIPTION:

A clone that is created by using the Hydrification Hijutsu of the Hozuki to alter the user's own cells into water. The clones can be as simple in function as a vaguely human shaped bubble for use in the Body Replacement Technique or a completely mobile and sentient clone capable of utilizing any jutsu in the users repertoire. the clones themselves have the ability to travel far from the user and are able to communicate with the original.

Moreover, since the clone has the ability to merge with any existing water source, it is also great for reconnaissance missions. By directly touching the clone with their hand, the user can either absorb the clone back into their body or change the shape of the clone.

Unlike other clone techniques, the Water Balloon Clone doesn't disappear when hit and takes the damage to a certain degree. This makes it the perfect clone technique that makes it nearly impossible to see through. However, the clones are inhibited by the actions of the user, so if they are preoccupied with other tasks the clones will not be able to act to their full potential.