.The Climb.

[Aoshi]

Katon: Buki Fo-ji no Jutsu (Fire Element: Weapon Forge Technique)
Rank: "C", "B"
Skill: NinJutsu
Effect: A Jutsu to where a user is capable of creating projectile weapons out of Fire.
Special: "Handseals"
Drawback: User is incapable of creating a weapon that exceeds projectiles the size of two and a half feet in length or width. User is incapable of creating a sword of any kind.
Description: Performing the handseals needed, they push out the fire in a way that fire may be created such as a breathe creation. Doing so the user is capable of sending out multiple projectile fire that looks in that of projectiles. These projectiles could run from Kunais to Shurikens, to Arrows or even senbons. The way the technique works is acts like that of a normal object, however creates a harsh burning sensation along with the attack to give added effect to the technique. The fire is capable of lasting up to four rounds after the user performs the technique so it would be best that the opponent if struck by the technique should take the time and remove the fire. When the user learns the "B" Rank version of this technique the user gains the capability of making the projectile explode forth like that of a tag per projectile.
Limit: Must learn within the Uchiha Clan, Must have the Katon no Jutsu (Fire Release Skill)

0.20

"I'm responsible for the village."

The words were muttered out loud so that he could gain an understanding of just what lay ahead of him. Midnight had come, the darkness that surrounded him yielding secrets the likes of which he would unlock with time. As Su Feng departed to the east, the only notion that plagued the Uchiha was the thought of footsteps following behind. They had easily been tracked, the wolves in human's clothing bearing down upon them and threatening to end the reign of the young. Justified by pride, they'd crossed into unfamiliar territory. And within the recesses of his mind, such an offense was unforgivable. Knowing this, there was no turning back. He would consume these demons within the seas of fire, starting with the most basic of techniques.

The Uchiha Clan's birthright.

He'd intentionally moved away from the direction in which Feng had made her escape. The forestry was perfect for the training that he had intended to put himself through, its rigorous processes meant to kill twice the bird with a single stone. He'd watched as his father performed multiple techniques in his time that dealt with flame. As such, he felt it only right that he continue the tradition. As he watched the glints of silver from blades unsheathed in the distance, he allowed his hands to move upward toward his front; he wanted them to see the destruction that was upon them. Time and again, he'd spelled murder through the zodiac. How ironic that the lives of man could be deciphered by the animal that they represented.

And yet, it was those same animals that would spell their end. Aoshi's handseals finished as he brought his chakra to the surface of his being, the threatening flow of his essence being accompanied by the sudden emergence of adversaries. They thirsted for his flesh, their blades swinging wildly in offensive gesture; clearly, they were abiding by the rule of the zerg. It was through this that Aoshi established his strategy, his lungs drawing breath before he suddenly lunged forward and exhaled. But all that followed was not simply carbon dioxide - it was a single kunai, born of flame and blazing through the air as it formulated its pattern of attack in a straight line. The sheer brilliance of it ignited the immediate area as the Uchiha narrowed his eyes.

It sped forward, searching without remorse for its target as the proximity betwixt them began to heat up. Aoshi's form remained poised for further action as the sudden attack traveled the distance between himself and his closest would-be aggressor. Its solid state flickered at the edges, orange and amber the last sight that his victim could decipher before the glory of the kunai's edge embedded itself deep within his chest. The gasp of surprise met the Hokage's ears as he stepped back upon his right foot, thereafter leaping to the shadows and leaving them to dwell with the smell of charred flesh moving into the air. The lion prowled through the branches as his feet touched down lightly. From behind, the fire that consumed his opponent's adversary lit up the twilight.

...And indeed, it was a glorious foreshadowing.

He was completely surrounded by Kazuya's beasts, their teeth gnashing as they turned their attention toward the heavens. He wouldn't bother to note the death of his first victim's now lifeless form. Nay - he was too busy formulating handseals once more, taking in a deep breath as his tenketsu yet again brought to life his desire to exhale a fiery projectile. It seemed as though he was able to form any type of secondary weapon he so desired. The mere thought of it, and his chakra would fuse with the outline and masterfully climb out from his gullet to chase down his adversaries. Aoshi could feel the small but still noticeable amount of chakra that it took to sustain such an attack. He would have to reserve his energies, placing the technique in learned fashion before expenditures grew too taxing.

[Holy Grail]

10+

[Aoshi]

10.20

It was the fire of Konoha that would cleanse them as they followed him, the sound of their footsteps bearing the hatred that they'd built in the time that he had been in the Land of River. Aoshi's hands planted along the surface of the branches with every stride he made. While the jungle was his home, his throne, his kingdom...it was here that they made their way further into a maze in which he could exploit their separation. The Uchiha would attempt the technique once more, but not without the proper alignment so that he might hit his target - if he wasted his chakra on a miss, then he would surely find himself unable to continue weaving this web of deception. Thus, he took to retreating until his attackers were left dumbfounded. His perch was accentuated by the slow manipulation of seals. "...Foolishness. This is my domain. And yet, the sheep would believe that they're wolves.." he muttered.

Narrowed eyes prevailed as Aoshi blinked once. And from something so miniscule, the eye of scarlet was once more born unto him so that he might track them by intervals better. Combining this particular jutsu with his Doujutsu, there were none who would escape the wrath of his flame. Aoshi formed more handseals, his fingers dancing rather quickly for one of such light practice. He had not truly dabbled in the art of fire since he was but a babe - while Kazu and his father mastered the fire, he was mastering the eye. Those same eyes would allow him to make out his enemies as they cautiously proceeded. But once he had finished the final handseal, he was already poised to attack once more from the shadows. His breath was held within his chest, eyeing the closest in proximity to the range at which he'd release his ninjutsu.

"Find him!" he heard.

But it was all for naught. Aoshi was completely swathed in shadow, the once onyx eyes flickering with the crimson piercing gaze that so many had seen before untimely ends. When he could no longer hold his breath in, Aoshi let forth an expulsion which would blow fire from betwixt his once pursed lips. Spiraling into a creation of multiple shuriken, their fiery essence was completely crafted to resemble the truth sight of secondary weapons. He hadn't reached into his satchel to retrieve them. They were fresh within his mind, his fingers knowing their length and width after so many had been downed by their practice. The fiery weapons were much faster this time - the increase in his breath had powered them further, allowing him to catch at least two of his aggressors off guard.

"You're going down! Take this!" he exclaimed. As if the classic line hadn't been insult enough, the blinding flare of a projectile making its home across the countenance of one of his opponents sent bone-chilling sensations down the spines of those who watched on in horror. A torrent of flame burst forth from his face as he fell onto his back, writhing in pain as idle hands attempted to pat the fire from melting the epidermis. It was far too late to have spotted Aoshi as he moved toward a new point of attack - the projectile had seemingly materialized from nowhere, a clear sign that his craft was coming along quite nicely. Once more, his chakra dipped and allowed him to note its toll on his overall pool. It was now that he was thankful to have been of the Ninjutsu Specialty. He could only hope that Feng had cleared the area properly.

But what of Kazuya? Had he tracked them down to Konoha, as well? The Uchiha stopped upon yet another branch as he witnessed gourds upon a few of their backs. Blades were brandished as they exposed themselves to him - a fatal mistake that his handseals would take advantage of. Aoshi made little noise as his raven locks fell away from his countenance. With his knee planted firmly against the branch, a single hand helped to support his weight as his chest rose and fell. This was the clear sign of his breath, the flames beginning to coat his lips once more as he exhaled. A stream of fire violently twisted and danced into the atmosphere before taking on the shape of senbon, multiples of them erupting into action and slamming harshly into the gourds. They were lit almost immediately as Aoshi backflipped from his perch, vanishing into the nothingness as two more bodies dropped to the earth and began their descent into fire and brimstone.

[Holy Grail]

10+

[Aoshi]

Hanabi no Shinka (Fire Flower of Evolution)
Rank: “E” Rank
Skill: Ninjutsu, Offensive, Defensive, Pre-requisite
Effect: Creates a small flower made of flames with six petals that are each six inches long.
Special: “Hand Seals”- Rat, Dragon, Monkey, Rabbit, Tiger, extending the left hand away from the body, then using the thumb, index, and middle fingers in a triangle-like formation.
Drawback: This ability has no real value beyond using it within a combo attack.
Description: This jutsu creates a flower made entirely of flames. The user performs the required hand seals, channeling chakra through the left hand’s thumb, index, and middle fingers. The left hand is then moved away from the body, and the three mentioned fingers form a triangle shape, while the other two fingers close like the user would make a fist. The built chakra then move upwards and out of the hand, sparking to life and creating a flower with six petals that are six inches long each. If the triangle formation is ever broken, then the entire flame disappears. This ability can almost be treated like a fighting style stance. Each use of a Hanabi no Shinka will require a set amount of petals to be used; after the petals have all been used, the ability must be re-performed. Any time that a part of the Hanabi no Shinka has been destroyed, so long as the whole flower is not destroyed, it will slowly regenerate unless it has been used for an attack.
Limit: Requires the Fire Release

0.5

It was a thing of beauty, watching his opponents continue to burn as he dropped down to the earth below. A slow and meticulous amble brought him to the charred bodies that had once stood to oppose him. And now they would be nothing more than nutrition for mother nature, the flora and fauna swallowing them whole with time. The Uchiha was brought to a sick form of homage, then. A grin twisted upon his lips as he remembered a technique that his father had formulated so long ago. With little concentration, he would be able to create what was known as the fire flower. Equipped with multiple petals that could grow to at least six inches long, their use would prove detrimental to the untrained eye. He lowered himself to a single knee and allowed his memories to bring back to the surface his father's methods.

Handseals were created with rapid succession, but they were done in a way that brought about the appearance of a fighting stance of some sort. His left hand began to bear witness to his chakra filtering out through nimble digits. The thumb, the index, and the middle finger were coating with his precious essence before he moved his hand from his frame. Allowing them to create a triangle shape, his right hand would follow suit in its own processes. Cupping the left hand's wrist, the remaining two digits curled inward so that only the triangle form of his three fingers remained. Surely enough, the flower began to grow from his appendage as he had once seen the patriarch provide.

Sparked to life, the fire flower glowed a radiant orange and amber that reflected the searing flames that he was going to use to consume his adversaries. Aoshi allowed the flaming flowers to linger upon the bodies of the deceased in those fleeting moments of intimidation. And once their kin had seen his gesture, surely they would know that a lake of fire would consume them in time. "I'm enjoying this just a bit too much.." he muttered, the roguish grin upon his features vanishing as he shunshin back into the hidden domain of the forestry.

[Holy Grail]

5+

[Aoshi]

Flame Daggers
Rank: "D" Rank
Skill: Ninjutsu
Effect: The user creates to small daggers made of fire that can be used for close combat. The daggers appear as if you are holding a dagger with the blade facing to your back.
Special: Ox, Dragon, Tiger
Drawback: ---
Description: The flame daggers are a variation of Katon: Daitou (Fire Release: Longsword). They are good for a close quarters fight with an enemy.
Limit: Must know Katon: Daitou jutsu before learning this jutsu.

0.10

The game of cat and mouse continued, though Kazuya had still not shown his ability to defend his own brethren of the once proud Tensora style. Blade and jutsu alike were useless as the wraith of an Uchiha poured in and out of reality, the ninjutsu art of Fire at the behest of all that he aspired to master whilst the battle raged on. Multiple casualties now lay scattered across the plain as the ninja emerged from the shadow, his feet connecting with the earth once more as his head dipped low. "...It isn't fair, is it?" he muttered. The question was a simple one, aimed at none in particular as the earshot was more than held by a few of those who had panicked. They turned upon the balls of their feet to witness the image of he who had so easily taken out a few of their own. Slated orbs regarded them with indifference - just what had Gabriel instilled in him that day? The hammer upon his shoulder glowed with resolve as his hands once more were brought to his chest.

"Come." The only invitation that they would receive before the Uchiha broke into handseals once more, those crimson eyes piecing together a new method of attack in the form of flame daggers. An exquisite technique that Kazu had once shown him, Aoshi made full use of his handseals as he called chakra to do his bidding again. It was a wondrous thing, the power of life and its ability to fuel such techniques. Fire, water, earth, wind, lightning, sound - these were a few of the potential elements that a ninja could invoke. But at this hour, when the darkness was guaranteed, it was up to the fires of Aoshi's techniques to douse the convicted and the guilty. Such belief was accentuated as his handseals finished. With a single inhale, the tension between himself and his now oncoming attackers grew thick. Their acrimonious attempts were met with his new creation.

Breathing fire onto both of his palms, he narrowed his eyes and sidestepped a single blade that had been intended for his gut. The motion was followed by a jump back, pushed from his left foot so that he might increase the distance between himself and harm's way. His feet allowed him to skid along the earth for a few meters, though this did nothing to deter the formation that was occurring within his hands. No sooner than when he'd come to a complete stop, Aoshi narrowed his eyes as streams of flame poured forth from twin handles that were composed purely of fire. Burning bright and slashing at the air as he armed himself, the Uchiha had created twin daggers that resembled only the most potent of weaponry in a form that lacked true tangible proportion. Instead, it was a symbolism - far more effective than the average fighting daggers, he could engage them more closely...more personally.

"Kill him! Kill that bastard! Kazuya won't let us hear the end if we don't!"

So that was the motive. The so-called wolves were being controlled as marionettes, dancing along their strings and sacrificing themselves for what they would consider the greater good. But for these pawns to continue to exist was an insult with every breath that Aoshi would not delay and extinguish. Nimble digits curled around the flaming daggers as he began to move forward, surely testing their endurance in a battle that would range close in order to prove effective. The Sharingan Eye was put to work as he ducked beneath a swinging blade, sliding forward upon his knees as his right hand moved to action. The dagger, so quick and blinding with its heated composition, would cut clean through the gut of his attacker as their weapon continued its outstretched - but fatal - attempt at his life.

He quickly stood to his feet and turned with a pivot, allowing both of the fiery daggers to descend until tearing into the shoulder of yet another of his attackers. The would-be murderous intent was replaced with the clear regret of folly. But remorselessly, Aoshi allowed his form to fall onto his knees. The Hokage stood close and watched the spark of life perish from him - or perhaps it was the spark of the daggers, the shinobi's turn allowing the weapons to dissipate from his grasp. Truly, they were a magnificent pair with which he could perform combat. Settling back onto his right foot, the horrid stares of hesitant soldiers greeted him. "...Either you may run back to Kazuya....or I will send you back in body bags. The choice is yours."

[Holy Grail]

10+

[Aoshi]

Housenka no Jutsu - Mythical Fire Phoenix Technique
Rank:C
Skill: Ninjutsu
Effect: The user is able to blow small balls of fire that can conceal projectiles to damage the opponent.
Special: Handseals
Drawback: ---
Description: The user performs a few quick handseals as they quickly take the same concept as that of the Goukakyuu no Jutsu. The user then spits out or hurls out up to five small sized fireballs towards the enemy. Each fireball creates massive amounts of burns but does not burst forth in an explosion. As each fireball makes contact with something, they spread out the fire creating a more of an area effect within the fire. The user is capable of using this technique in conjunction with multiple secondary weapons such as kunai or shuriken. The opponent is incapable of noticing the projectiles until the fire is extinguished in mid air. This technique is used typically to hide or to be used as a diversion for more of a powerful technique. As a D ranked ninja, the user is able of shooting 5 balls of fire. After the user goes up a difficulty class, they are capable of shooting 5 more fireballs.
Limit: Fire Release

0.20

It was a true spectacle, to say the least.

Aoshi had managed to track his way through the forestry back to the abandoned tower that he'd found days ago, a looming mist enveloping him as he used it to escape the waves of soldiers that threatened to attack from Kazuya's band of miscreants. He clutched onto the Shiroi Kiba blade as he approached a rather large door, narrowed eyes scanning it for some sort of entry - no handle rest upon its surface. With a mighty swing of the blade that rang out for meters, he slammed the kissaki into the small space that would allow him to jar it open. A quick yank, and he would see himself inside to the dark and damp rooms within. Surely, they would follow him. And surely, he would be prepared for their arrival. The Uchiha pushed chakra toward his feet as his Sharingan scanned the immediate proximity. Chains and the like rattled lightly as he scaled its walls, preparing once again to make a fiery offensive maneuver.

The Mythical Fire Phoenix technique.

Jumping a small way from the wall, he landed upon a platform and immediately began to remember the technique that his father had made use of a long while ago. With this particular jutsu, he'd be able to summon spheres of flame that he could spread out over a certain radius. No more threatening than your average pit of fire, this technique was specifically designed to overwhelm in numbers and not so much potency. As such, he would have to concentrate his efforts on the latter portion of the technique's purpose. For now, there was but the option of managing his chakra levels. He was still fully prepared to combat the waves that not shown themselves with chatters and slow steps into the base of the tower's room. Unbeknownst that he was above them, he would carefully move his appendages so that handseals could be made.

One....two...three...four...five of them.

Their initial numbers was more than enough for the lion to grant them proper show. Just as his energies had been gathered at the focal point of his being, he'd inhaled just enough so that they might not hear the oxygen being sucked into his form. His abdomen rose and fell lightly as the sudden emergence of chakra fused with the air. And with a single push of his lungs, the chakra nature would change into the fiery flames that now began to rain down from his gullet and onto the earth around them. Aoshi's hand moved upward so that a sphere could be made from his fingers. The balls of fire erupted with such proportion that their searing properties would cause the room to rock to its very foundation. At least ten of the spheres would make their way downward, falling into a creating gouts of flame that burst from the ranks of his adversaries.

"Argh! No! It burns! Put it out!!" he could hear, but their cries of agony were far too loud for his comfort. Aoshi's right hand quickly shifted backward, the pads of his fingers feeling along the handle of the Shiroi Kiba before he gave a single jump and a front flip. Like the reaper itself, he would descend upon them with grace unparalleled. The blade cleaved from one of them their right arm, the appendage falling to the floor below as he stood and engaged their numbers with a series of slashes and sword thrusts. Through the fire would he emerged as they raged onward, the Fire Phoenix spheres numbering at least ten in quantity. Useful though they were, he easily danced in and out of them. He had spread them apart to cover ground, leaving his aggressors to fend for themselves as the smoke rose up and through holes that had been put into the tower.

But it was hardly enough to distract them for too much longer. Bodies fell around him as his sword took and created artificial orifices, pools of blood spilling and slowly traveling the expanse of the floor. Aoshi lunged forward and allowed his right foot to raise, slamming it into the door to close it shut - if he were lucky, then he would be able to repeat such a process with the fire phoenix technique and incinerate more of his engaging attackers. They were stalking him. And if they were to believe that the cornered lion would not attack, they were far too late to realize the folly. The lion hadn't been cornered - he had merely trapped them betwixt his paws.

[Aoshi]

-2nd-

His knowledge was ever increasing, already figuring the necessary element to have increased the potency of his fireballs. There was little more that he could at that particular interval - corridors lead further into the tower's massive construct, Aoshi's eyes quickly scanning for the best method in which to get there. But before he could truly advance, the sound of familiar voices poured into the area outside. Shattered windows, long abandoned by some sort of explosion or corrosive quality, gave him more than enough ability to spy on those outside. Their blades drawn, they cautiously approached as smoke billowed out and into the night sky. "Come out, Shinomori! We know full well who you are!" he heard them. He laughed in return, no response needed. They should have known better.

Aoshi took initiative as his hands once more came together, flipping through the handseals as he recalled to his knowledge the fire technique he'd used only moments ago. He was able to spit out at least ten of those spheres of flame, aiming them where he'd seen fit so long as he was pre-emptive in his hands moving over his mouth. It was the catalyst that all Uchiha knew to perform when the Goukyakuu No Jutsu was in effect. Though this differed slightly, the purpose was still very much the same. From his perch above, he had already begun to take in a deep breath as the door was beat against. His nameless attackers were more foolish than he'd anticipated. Or perhaps, he figured, they hadn't the necessary training to maneuver as he did.

With this in mind, his handseals would take place and yield the concentration of chakra he sought within seconds. Narrowed eyes prevailed as he inhaled, that same breath used to mix his essence with the katon nature that his clan was so famously known for. Without hesitation, without regret, without conviction; he exhaled just as the door opened, the first of many spheres blown forth from his gullet and igniting the air immediately to join his kindred flames below. Spiraling outward and moving toward his adversaries in an arcing fashion, it was far too late for them to evade his projectiles as they began to dot the entryway to the tower. "Gah! No! Move back, move back!" he heard. But there was nothing quite like the sudden emergence of charred flesh.

Ten in all. It was this many Mythical Fire Phoenix Flames that now lined his route further into the tower and its adjacent buildings. Aoshi would leap forward from his place above, the chains rattling as his hands grasped onto them in his descent. He finally landed in a crouch, rolling forward and beginning a brusque stride to hide himself among the many doors and entryways that could be accessed. But he couldn't advance without covering his tracks. Turning upon his heel, he once more allowed his handseals to flip through their required process. The damage of the fire was capable of deterring them elsewhere. If he could cut them off from the main access point, then surely he would find answers in splitting their numbers and questioning them accordingly.

It was almost masochistic, the enjoyment that he found in burning them alive. For the sake of Konoha, he was willing to go to lengths that those of ordinary blood would have walked away from. But not this prodigy of the Leaf. No, he was fully prepared to accept the consequences of his sanity being temporarily placed upon the shelf. A large intake of breath occurred before he yet again leaned forward, his fingers coming to form that same circle over his mouth. The spheres of fire rushed from his maw much quicker than the last time, covering the lining of the door and preventing their advance unless they held users of the Suiton proportion. Regardless, it would give him enough time to turn and make way into the protection of unknown territory.

[Holy Grail]

20+

[Aoshi]

Katon - Ryuuka no Jutsu (Dragon Fire Technique)
Rank: "C" "B" Rank
Skill: NinJutsu
Effect: The user quickly performs a large creation of blinding fire into the form of a large Dragon form. The Dragon must be used in the same concept as the Goukakyuu no Jutsu in which must be thrown by placing a hand in a circle form over the mouth of the user.
Special: "Handseals"
Drawback: This type of technique is better used if the opponent is bonded down and unable to be moved.
Description: A Large creation is created as the user performs the necessary handseals for the technique. As the user does so they raise their hand up over their mouth. By taking in a deep, breathe the user fills their lungs with chakra to in, which ignites the moment they blow out air. As the user blows out the creation of fire is made taking the form of a giant dragon like creature. The Dragon is quickly hurled towards the opponent as the dragon swivels and swerves moving like that of a Chinese Dragon. When first learned the Dragon does not explode forth but the very flames oozes out spreading out in all directions that would wrap around the opponent in a blaze of glory. When the user learns the "B" Rank version the user is capable of pushing so much power into the technique to where when it touches the target it is needed it is ignited in a mass blaze of glory, creating a grand explosion.
Limit: Must have the Fire Release

0.20

"Su Feng....I'm sorry.." he muttered.

It was the consequence of their actions, the world of the swordsman mixing poorly with that of he who had simply wanted to obtain knowledge. Aoshi's mind reeled as he silently wondered just what pleasure he was getting out of murdering his former acquaintances. The protection of Konoha? Or simply the knowledge that he was growing in strength? Whatever the reason, the only remorse he'd felt was that of Feng losing her most prized students. Still, there was no choice in the matter. It was either the heads of those who wanted him dead, or the retribution of the fire that now burned brightly from within the tower. The glorious display was accentuated by the sound of rusted metal and small constructs crashing to the ground, echoing throughout the corridor as he had been effectively sealing off their entry.

It was high time that he take it a step further, however. Aoshi's Sharingan eye had quickly scanned the distance and measured up their remaining forces, also taking into account the length of the hallways and how long it would take for them to get around the fire he'd already set in place. Kazu had taught him yet another technique within the Fire Style - one that was far more useful and grand than what he'd already known. The element of fire was altogether formless. It moved and bent how it pleased, no regard given for the elements or inanimate objects that surrounded or attempted to hold it in. But what if one was able to form something within the mind and fuse it with the chakra, much like he'd done with the spheres of flame that continued to burn at the tower's entrance?

What he had in mind was simple, and yet it was also complex. Kazu had once birthed unto the battlefield a dragon of large proportion, its maw snapping and its movements graceful like that of a chinese being. It required little more chakra than his previous techniques, but the benefit was far greater with a projectile whose size was large enough to turn the tide of battle. Apparently, there had been two variations. The Uchiha stopped his brusque stride at the end of the corridor just as he saw few more of Su Feng's former students appear. He would have to attempt the jutsu, relying solely on his memory of Kazu's teachings to guide him. Allowing his feet to plant firmly to the floor, the Uchiha yet again called out to his chakra.

His tenketsu awakened just as they approached, his palms smacking together lightly before fingers dipped and weaved the signs necessary to change his chakra nature into the flame element. The final seal was finished with a flicker of a grin, its roguish proportion doing nothing to stifle the silent pride he'd garnered from his success thus far. From deep within his bowel did his life's energy roar to life once more. The origin of the attack was quite clear - he brought a single hand up toward his mouth, channeling his breath so that it would ignite no sooner than when it had finally took to the air. There was little that could stop the force now. He'd imagined the form it would take, and thus it would come to life.

The stream of fire suddenly burst into a magnificent orange and amber, taking the form of a dragon whose maw lay agape as it traveled forward at unparalleled speeds. Swerving in and out through the corridor and lapping at the walls, the mighty projectile of draconic proportion rose slightly before diving nose first into the area where his adversaries awaited. A voluminous splash of flame broke out and into the atmosphere as he stood watch, his form statuesque as the sudden lake of fire poured out toward the entryway to the tower. He need not witness the event to know that more lives would drown beneath his jutsu, its blinding properties preventing them from truly knowing their demise.

[Holy Grail]

10+

[Aoshi]

- 1st Person -

10.20

"This fire.." I trailed off, standing afront the blaze that ignited my opponents and no doubt threw their ranks into a frenzy as they fell into the sea of crimson and orange. The brilliant dragon I'd formulated had perished early, it seemed. They still filtered in and attempted to flank me from the outsides. But I knew better than to simply have engaged them and caged myself in. My left hand slid backward along the metallic scabbard of the Shiroi Kiba, my digits wrapping around it before unleashing it to my right hand. With due diligence, I was able to turn toward the distance and watch as more of my adversaries filed in to attempt their hand at taking my life - a grave mistake that I would bathe them in flame for.

My advance was a quick one, a shunshin carrying me forward for at least ten meters before I locked blades with the first to arrive. He faltered in his step but for a moment; a moment that I would take advantage of, lifting my foot and planting it across his gut before I forcefully pushed him backward and into his own. The simultaneous action of sheathing my blade would be accompanied by handseals that fluttered through completion at a swift pace. Once the final seal had been finished, I'd bring my right hand up toward my mouth and inhale. "Fire Style! Dragon Fire jutsu!" I exclaimed, the expulsion of my breath yielding that same glorious creation I'd mixed in only minutes ago. While I felt that it was still lacking, it would no doubt still serve its purpose.

The dragon roared to life in no less than expert fashion. The entire room, brightly lit by the threshold between life and death, displayed so blatantly the potential that I could instill and make use of should they have crossed into my territory. My form flew backward upon a backpedal as the maw of the dragon stretched, threatening to devour my staggering aggressors. Making its home within the chest of he who I had thrown backward, his cry of agony was soundly drowned by the chaotic woes of those who had followed behind him. The splash of flames unhindered cascaded over them within the next few seconds, effectively buying me time as I searched for yet another route that I could take. More chains hung from the ceilings, and upon them I would climb my way up until standing on the second story's railing.

I flipped through the handseals once more, the second entrance opening as blade and muscle alike forced it open. I was altogether unimpressed as they grouped themselves together - easy targets whose lives I could snuff out at my leisure. I was maturing, growing, becoming more prone to countering the thought of retaliation more-so than the actual kinetic energy required to come close to my person. With yet another string of those handseals finished, I rose my hand to my mouth and focused an even greater amount of chakra toward my throat. I couldn't fall short in powering the beast. So with my third flame dragon being born, it would quickly escalate the fire that already raged below.

"Fire Style!"

The very words did little to truly engulf the meaning. That same mythical beast rose from my efforts, my chest heaving with the added momentum to allow it to descend in a diagonal fashion. The force alone was enough to force tables and the like from the floor, igniting the wood to further my goal of charring all that remained below. Not even the first entryway had been cleared of fire. Twisted metal and jagged wood alike exploded from the floor beneath me as I ducked away - just as the dragon hit its mark, the large amount of flame derived from it would forcefully throw my opponents aside. This did nothing to stop the flames that now burned them from sole to crown, however. I merely watched as I stood, moving backward before turning and walking into the shadows that would hide my grim satisfaction.

[Holy Grail]

10+

[Aoshi]

Fire Style: Hot Ash Breath.
Rank: C
Skill: Ninjutsu
Effect: Allows the user to expel hot ash from their mouth onto their targets to cause great burns to their body.
Special: Dog, Dragon, Boar, Tiger
Drawback: The User could easily be caught within the technique, burning himself within the hot ash. This technique does not discriminate between friend and foe. Only lasts for one post before diminishing into the air.
Description: User forms the needed hand seals and focuses chakra to their throat and mouth. Inhaling, the user releases a large wave of steaming hot black ash from their mouth, out towards the opponent. The ash quickly covers an area of 10 meters wide and 20 meters in front of them, leaving the hot ash in a 30 meter Cone expelling from the user, 8 feet high into the air, in about 1 second. This ash hinders all sight while active, except DouJutsu. However only remains within the air for one turn (6 Seconds). This ash upon contact, will instantly burn whoever is caught within, leaving second degree burns (B Rank Damage) along the effected body parts.
Limit: Fire Release

0.20

They were getting wise to my tactics, it seemed.

I wanted to wish that Kazu would appear sometime soon. That maybe he'd just been hiding all this time, waiting for me to stumble onto this place and tell me that it was nothing but a huge test. I'd have even accepted the fact that I wasn't really the Hokage - but as with all things, I had to live in reality if I didn't want to become a memory. And so I would take up observation, moving to another wing of the tower and watching the structures that it was so deeply rooted and connected to. There appeared to be prison cells here - some of them closed and locked, others wide open but smelling of rust and blood. The stench was enough to force me to curb my gag reflex, my eyes shutting for a time.

...at least, until I heard footsteps.

I hadn't moved fast enough. There was little space for me to maneuver, the only opening the inevitable approach that they would make to meet me. The sound of blades scraping along the metal alerted me to their proximity, no doubt their doubled efforts to box me in so that they might engage in bladed combat. Far be it from me to deny them their preferred method of open or closed caskets. Still, I had other plans in mind before I was to exert physical energy on fighting the masses. Another technique came to mind as my eyes narrowed, searching for at least thirty meters of corridor that I could use. I leaned over toward the railing that would lead me downward into the darkness. It was just dim enough so that I could see my drop point. And so I would make use of the moment, flipping through handseals just as they arrived.

"Give up already! Didn't you see the size of the school! If Kazuya wants you dead, then you die! We have a small army here!" I heard. My head dipped low as I finished my handseals, a smirk crossing my features. "Kazuya must have you under some type of spell, guy. You're not walking out of here alive if you keep pursuing me. But the bigger question is....why are you even chasing after me in the first place if you know that I'm the Hokage?" I asked. I wouldn't wait for an answer, his feet inching forward more than what I had cared to allow him. As he attempted to draw near, he would suddenly find himself exposed to a breath of ash that was now being expelled from my mouth. This particular technique was one of veiled potency. Not very menacing at first glance, it was the reconciled portion of the jutsu that would present all that I needed.

"What the--!?" I heard, though the effect of the Ninjutsu had already taken effect. This technique had been designed to bring in a cloud of black ash, spreading forward in a cone effect so that it might engulf an even bigger radius than the norm. What lay beyond was a sensation of fire that lingered upon the skin, tainting the epidermis and rendering it charred with second degree burns. I hadn't perfected it fully just yet, but the endgame was satisfactory - they writhed in complete pain, their agony almost tangible as I was able to waltz past their falling form. Seconds passed before the ash had completely cleared the area. Looking at their deceased vessels, it was evident that the flesh was no match for my jutsu.

A split pathway met me as I continued my advance, leaving behind the corpses that had fatally breathed in and mixed with the hot ash Ninjutsu I'd unleashed. A single leap over the railing took me down toward my intended destination. With a hero's crouch aiding me, my eyes adjusted to the darkness and gave way to me rolling sideways into one of the prison cells. For contingency, I once again maneuvered so that my hands could diligently form the symbols needed for the Hot Ash technique again. It had proven effective against the first crowd of my attackers. Hopefully, I prayed, the second wave would be just as gullible.

....But not before I got my answers.

[Holy Grail]

10+

[Aoshi]

10.20

I pressed my back against the cold and damp prison cell wall, the final handseal followed by an intake of breath as I heard their approach. But before they could even turn the corridor, I'd once again make use of the training that Kazu and my father had bestowed upon me to complete. It was funny, really - I hadn't concentrated on the tasks at hand like this since I'd last seen my brother. I thought I could have been stronger - much stronger than when I'd originally become a Genin. And now look at me: I was Hokage, and I felt inadequate in power to support the title. It was with this resolve that I lunged forward, moving into the hallway and expelling the long cloud of ash that immediately sought to burn their numbers alive. I could hear the sudden cry of terror that lifted from their throats.

But unfortunately, I hadn't caught all of them.

The ash cloud rose into the heavens as the surrounding area suddenly became ablaze with its latent heat, even my own form needing to back away as I crouched once more and clutched the katana diagonally across my back. "Wait!" I heard, narrowed eyes surveying the distance for some sign of retaliation or counterattack. I allowed the blade to slide out of its scabbard to a degree. "...What?" I asked in a dead tone. I wouldn't let them on to my state of mind. Far be it from me to give them any advantage, their morale was surely broken with many of their kin dead and even more burning behind me. "Look...I know where Kazuya is! I can take you to him!" a trembling voice called out.

But the convenience was far too easy. I ensured that I was out of the view of those that lingered beyond the threshold that separated me from an ambush. Slowly but surely, my eyes fluttered to a close. I remembered the advice given to me by my father in regards to the distance of the Hot Ash Ninjutsu. Whether deception or truth, I couldn't afford to take for granted the opportunity to stop more of my attackers from rearing their heads. "Why should I believe anything you say? You're just like the rest of them. You're just mad because I've killed so many already." The words came out in a cold truth, sure to send shivers down his spine as he realized my lack of fear and more my invigorated relief that more had come so that I could have downed them.

It was then that my anticipation had been replaced by curiosity - he had turned the corner, standing in full gear that I had seen from the Land in which Su Feng and I had fled. Both arms raised high into the air as he watched me, his gaze meeting my own. Still, I couldn't be bothered to believe him just yet. "Tell me something of use to me. Then....we might talk," I said, my palms brought together to signify that I was fully prepared to deliver death to his doorstep. Based on the fact that he had seen my jutsu just now, he knew full well that there was no amount of running that could have saved him from thirty meters worth of the noxious fumes that I was capable of.

It was then that he immediately pointed behind me. The concept of fight or flight quickly took me as I turned upon my heel, instinctively pushing forth with the hot ash cloud as handseals were performed. I extended the range of it for as far as I could, my gullet expelling the very essence that had burned my previous assailants into submission. No sooner than when it had left my breath, a small number of my aggressors arrived in a flanking motion. "What is-!?" I heard. That same sound of horrific cry could be heard as I turned back toward my newly found hostage. The hot ash seemed more potent this time around, threatening to burn even my own eyes as I escaped its radius. With a swift approach, a right hook would knock my source of information to the floor. Unconscious, I could carry him out through proper means and extract what I needed from him later.

I was getting closer to Kazuya. I could feel it.

[Holy Grail]

learned

[Aoshi]

Katon - Goukakyuu no Jutsu (Great Fireball Technique)
Rank: "C" "B" Rank
Skill: NinJutsu
Effect: The user is capable of performing a few handseals in which gives them the capability of blowing a large body of fire in size of a large sphere that has great fire proportions and explosive capabilities.
Special: "Handseals"
Drawback: Depending on the Rank, is dependent on how strong or how much the user is capable of doing with the Goukakyuu no Jutsu.
Description: The user quickly performs a few handseals. The user then places the hand over their mouth creating a small like circle. This technique in turn is then to help the user control the great flame. The use then blows out and creates a large fireball that twice the size of a normal human body. When the "C" Rank version is first learned the user is only capable of blowing out the Great Fireball that is cannot be moved or go anywhere else. This also means that the technique does not explode in a fiery explosion, but burns greatly to anyone that is caught within the technique. When the user learns the "B" Rank version then the user is capable blowing the Great Fireball into the distance, sending it away from the use it to hurl towards the very opponent. This technique is only capable of going into a straight line and this is capable of having the size three times the size of a human body. This technique when launched at an opponent then becomes dangerous because at this point the technique can explode causing damage that is even more devastating.
Limit: Must have the Fire Release

0.60 - B-Rank Version

I had been given the instructions from my captive. Forthcoming in every sense of the word when he was reduced to being a slave to my Sharingan Eye, there was no denying that he would tell me all that would help me reach Kazuya. But I had no more use for him - a single stroke of the sword to his throat had abruptly ended his chance of telling anyone that I was coming. So now it was up to me to rid Konoha of Kazuya's destructive hand. The forest's charred remains were more than enough to remind me of my purpose. By the time I'd finished, then the Leaf would never have even remembered the name. I'd be using the Uchiha's signature jutsu to accomplish my goal. Two nights had passed since I'd been told what I wanted to know. And now it was time to act.

"I'm coming for you, Kazuya.."

The resolve was muttered outright as I crossed the forestry into what appeared to be a long and winding road. Lined with multiple types of defensive walls that obscured my view of the immediate distance, I was more than sure that this would inevitably lead me forward to Kazuya. But not without interference from his own shinobi as the midday sun beamed down upon me. I need not hide in the shadows. For even as they approached, I was already contemplating the jutsu and its use. The first would be a simple application of the technique that I'd already known. Faster than their eyes could have anticipated - their amateur oculi confused by my motions - my hands had broken out into a series of seals.It was no strange thing to me to allow my body to relax.

Poised for offense, entire companies of the Tensora's would-be practitioners attempted to thwart my jutsu. Blades had been brandished, a sea of steel and edge bearing down upon me like the gnashing teeth of rabid dog. Their eyes held a certain ferocity that I could appreciate. But in the end, those same eyes would be rendered lifeless by the time I was done with my final seal. "Katon!" I began. The words echoed out and into the distance, my hair whipping about as the winds began to increase. The wake of my chakra was pushing out and into the open. So potent was it that I was able to halt their advance partially. The chakra had been applied to my gullet. All I need do is finish the process.

"Goukyakuu No Jutsu!"

"You don't use this technique unless you absolutely have to, my son." I watched as my father stood

before an abandoned structure much bigger than he or I could have destroyed alone. At least....that was what I had thought. Kazu merely watched on in interest as I found out just how powerful my people had become. All this time I'd spent blaming my lineage for our inability to be as powerful as we should have been. As my father blew a great volume of fire forward from his lips, I could only lift my hands and brace myself for the impact. It was much stronger than its former self. The flames burned much brighter, seared at a much stronger proportion. And upon making impact, it exploded with a force that nearly knocked me from my feet.

This was the same jutsu that I was practicing now. "Where's Kazuya!" I exclaimed. I lifted my left hand, the right remaining free so that I could grab onto the Shiroi Kiba blade if I so pleased. My fingers curled into a small ring before my mouth. Without hesitation, I allowed my breath to escape my chest in the form of that most potent flame. "Get out of the way!" I heard, but it was far too late for the technique to be dodged. I'd thrust much into it, the stream of flame conquering the immediate line in front of me and speeding forward. Though it was nowhere near as strong as my father's more powerful version, I would need to study the initial impact and carefully attune myself to the proper procedure.