Kumogakure Culture Centre [M|Sita]

[A 5 A M 1 -- N4GA]

Kumogakure Culture Centre

//Enter

After returning home to quickly change into something more.. suitable I return to the Kumogakure Culture Centre to meet up with Amarantha. But rather than meeting her outside the building as I had thought, a lone man stood at the stairs leading into a high arched doorway. I come to a halt at the foot of the stairs and studied the building as it loomed over me. Tall elegant marble the colour of ivory with a domed ceiling and lamp-like lights sitting on both sides of an arched entry way with steps positioned like a spilling fountain of water.

Windows adorned this massive structure, although they were made of a frosted glass. It almost looked as if the windows themselves had been shattered and the fragments of glass were all piled into a sheet of new glass and were frozen there in place. In a way, the appearance to this auditorium was beautiful and chilling at the same time. Glancing down at myself, a white tomesode kimono adorned my curves gracefully, while a pair of black geta covered my feet. My shoulder length hair had been piled up on top of my head with a large amount of clips. Each clip was the same ink blade shade as my hair.

I come with no weapons as there are none to hide in a kimono like this. It makes me feel slightly exposed yet, I knew I would be perfectly safe. My make-up resembles a mixture between a geisha and normal as I do not like the white powder geisha women wear. I looked ready for performing, but inside I felt like scrambled eggs. Climbing up the stairs, my feet glide along them despite the geta and I am inside the centre within three seconds. “You’re needed in the theatre, your partner will meet you there.” The host waiting at the entrance had said.

Nodding, I hurry forward and cross the lobby quickly before passing in through one of four large double doors resembling the archway at the entrance. The doors lead into a powerfully lit theatre where the flooring was a dark ruby red which stretched throughout the entire room. The room itself at a guess would be at least 140 metres wide and 200 metres long while a low dip held the orchestra just in front of stage that took up a quarter of the room. On both sides 4 rows of booths lined each wall, 5 boots along each line resulting in a total of 20 booths while thousands of seats covered the floor.

The curtains were of the same ruby red as the flooring and seats and raised at least 200 metres into the air while the source of the light sat within the centre of the dome positioned in the centre of the ceiling. The ceiling itself was covered with paintings of dragons, the chandelier a burning yellow hole within its centre. I barely heard my swift intake of breath as I took in the sight of the room. It was certainly breath taking. The theatre itself was empty, but a faint sound from in the distance indicated that it was busy behind the curtain.

“As soon as your partner arrives, we can discuss the mission in depth, but in the meantime, go and wait by the stage and someone will come and collect you.” The host had said moments before exiting the theatre to perhaps collect Amarantha should she not have arrived yet.

SPOILER: Click to show

Name: The ghost of the opera.
Rank: “B” Rank.
IIC Length: 2 days.
Difficulty: Moderate.
People required: 1 Chuunin/Jounin with up to 3 Genins.
Objective: Go undercover and arrest the suspect during the show.
Description: Kumogakure’s culture center is hosting a musical about a girl who is the object of interest to a ghost. The musical has received great reviews plus a high ticket sale during its six week run. But the lead female singer has recently received a threatening letter from a person named ‘Kurozawa’. The letter says that she will be injured during the show if she is to sing at Friday 13th. The culture center director has asked the Raikage to send some skilled shinobis to the culture center that day. All of the participants are going to be undercover as actors/actresses, musicians, stage workers or make-up artists. Make sure that the female singer stays safe during the show and find the culprit!
Reward: 18,000 ryo (15,500 ryo for a non-nin).

[Celaena Kamyuja]

Enter: He called himself Jessie Garon Presley, and he was the most amazing Elvis look-a-like Amarantha had ever seen. He had the same intense blue eyes, the same pouty lower lip, and he wore his thick black hair in the style Elvis had made famous back in the Fifties - sideburns and a ducktail. But instead of wearing the flashy, sequined jumpsuits Elvis had favoured in his later years, Jessie wore a pair of slick black pants and a black silk shirt, open at the throat. A thick gold chain circled his neck. A gold ring with a diamond the size of a golf-ball winked on the middle finger of his right hand. If she hadn’t known better, she would have sworn he really was Elvis, but the King had died of a heart attack years ago. Of course, there were those who insisted Elvis was still alive, but even if that was true, he would be an ancient by now, and the man before her couldn’t be more than thirty-three, about the same age Elvis had been when he did his Comeback Special in ’68. How on earth did she know all this about Elvis Presley? She would blame Terre for that. The old crow loves the guy especially the songs: "Let Me Be Your Teddy Bear", “Jailhouse Rock” and “Hard Headed Woman.” That song, Hard Head Woman Amarantha likes the most, it reminds her of herself in some ways. Forget about Elvis songs! Where is Asami? Since we did not make plans I have no idea where she is. The building from this angle looks massive, and the back door, impressive. She could get used to this kind of scenery. It was just a pity she was here on atrocious trade. Could Asami be inside already? I did approach from the bad gate sort of speak, I better go and find her. "Well, it was nice meeting you Jessie. And I am sorry to hear you did not get the part in the play. However you are rocking the Elvis look alike. Perhaps, you should consider acting. Elvis as far as I know, acted also. Farewell and good luck." Once Amara was done surveying the area; beside costume designer and Elvis believer Jessie, the area did not show any signs of insecurity. The Kamyuja walked alongside the building, looking up at the many windows and building decorations before approaching the main entrance. And as she approached the steps, she noticed a lone man exiting from the said doors, and with urgency. At first, she deemed his swift movements odd, all until he spoke and then she realized he was either director or the host. “Your partner is already inside. If you will, follow me please.” With haste of her own, Amara took the steps two at a time to catch up to his retreating figure. Mindful of her dressed appearance: a kimono dress similar to a female Samurai outfit, and semi high heeled boots with her four knives tucked inside their leather souls, the female entered the building and first sort out the quick exiting areas. Beside the one she just entered through, the windows will have to be the next quick escape routes. The lobby was massive, and if she wasn’t here on business, she would have gasped and give reflection on such beauty. Amarantha loved space, and all this glittering cleanness made her eager for the grand stage. However, she won’t be enjoying it. Not her attention would most likely be focused on the target, a woman whose name she still doesn’t know. Passing through the lobby, up a flight of stairs, and through doorway of many, she finally entered a room which she immediately reckoned to be the stage. It was behind curtain though and as soon as her eyes adjusted to her new surroundings, she found Asami. Amarantha noticed that the woman had changed. Pleased that it seemed more appropriate for a performance, she nodded her approval. But the sound of a man clearing his throat, Amara turned her attention onto the man who led her here. And then he spoke, signalling the beginning of beginnings. “Now, let’s get down to business. The play will be starting in precisely one hour…” Name: The ghost of the opera. Rank: “B” Rank. IIC Length: 2 days. Difficulty: Moderate. People required: 1 Chuunin/Jounin with up to 3 Genins. Objective: Go undercover and arrest the suspect during the show. Description: Kumogakure’s culture center is hosting a musical about a girl who is the object of interest to a ghost. The musical has received great reviews plus a high ticket sale during its six week run. But the lead female singer has recently received a threatening letter from a person named ‘Kurozawa’. The letter says that she will be injured during the show if she is to sing at Friday 13th. The culture center director has asked the Raikage to send some skilled shinobis to the culture center that day. All of the participants are going to be undercover as actors/actresses, musicians, stage workers or make-up artists. Make sure that the female singer stays safe during the show and find the culprit! Reward: 18,000 ryo (15,500 ryo for a non-nin). Attire: Knife x 4 TEMPLATE NOT MINE

[A 5 A M 1 -- N4GA]

The Boring Chit-Chat

The man had returned with Amarantha in tow, her outfit was not all that different to what she usually wore, if not a little more sensible. My expression twitched as I fought the urge to laugh. But as the man began speaking, things were finally moving forward now that the other kunoichi had arrived. I nod toward Amarantha should she glance my way and fold my arms across my chest as the man continued to speak.

“Now, as you both know our lead actress Sophie Morgenstern is being stalked by a ghost who has called himself Kurozawa,” the man said, folding his arms across his broad chest. “Despite you both will be given songs and parts to sing and act, your primary objective is to oversee Sophie’s protection and to scout out the so-called ghost.” The man said. I dreaded the fact that we were to sing and act as well. But I remain silent as he continued to speak. “In the letter, Kurozawa stated that during the My Immortal scene he was going to attempt to kidnap Sophie while the mist floods the stage.

“That scene is the fifth of six songs that will be sung for the performance.” He explained, handing both Amarantha and myself a reasonably thick booklet. “Those are the songs you will need to learn within the hour as we cannot extend the start time any further.” He then said. I flipped open the booklet and read the song names: Bring Me To Life, I Dreamed A Dream, Mechanical Love, Everdream, My Immortal and Into The Light. “Do you have any questions before I take you to meet Sophie?” The man then said, exchanging a glance between both Amarantha and myself.

“So we learn the songs, aid Sophie in her performances, keep an eye out during My Immortal step in to prevent this Kurozawa guy from kidnapping Sophie and finish the play without any hiccups. Alright, but when we save her, do we have to make it look as if it’s acting?” I ask, staring at the man, a genuine expression upon my face.

[Celaena Kamyuja]

The luck was not on Amarantha’s side. She had interpretive the problem with a different theory, her imagination running wild. She envisioned the musical play being about a woman singing and a ghost had found her whatever, beautiful? Innocent? A good body host…, similar to the Phantom of the Opera even; something as though written by directors and story authors to be set for actors as in a character plot. She was even going to go behind stage, talk with the characters believing that the play was of one person playing the Ghost and Sophie playing the lines which involved the said ghost. She never thought that this Ghost was Kurozawa. The Kamyuja masked her surprise by following Asami’s posture: the arms crossed, nodding when needed but doing nothing more. She even hid her excitement when the host said that they were going to be given songs and parts within this act. Amara thought she was going to be behind stage, or behind the scenes, however actually preforming. She looked down at herself and frowned. She wondered if she looked the part before turning her attention back onto the man, especially when he explained the scene where the My Immortal was going to happen. The mist might be a problem. “Question; how does this Kurozawa know that there was going to be a My Immortal scene? Are there pamphlets which slow the story progress? Amara studied the host with sharp eyes, but could not help but to wonder if he was Kurozawa. In a rule, she was to study everybody, whether they seem innocent or even iffy. It was protocol, innocent to proven guilty. And as he spoke, Amarantha wasn’t impressed. “Err-no. When the guest arrive, all they receive are these red cards,” As the man opened his robes and reached into his inner pocket, he handed over a red card which Amara took with a pinch of her nails and nothing more. As he began speaking again, she stared down at the printed words: Row six. Seat Ten before handing the red cark over to Asami, assuming she wanted to look at it as well. “I never actually thought about that. C-could Kurozawa be an actual cast member?!” The host hissed silently. Amara frowned again at his actions, and the wheels within her mind suddenly being turning. He doesn’t seem to be panicking, err no, I see sweat. Amara looked down at her hands, and noticed with silent inspection that she was not sweating, nor did she feel warm. As he spoke, she looked up and studied the walls. Too the far right she saw a red light blinking, and mentally thought camera. She then looked to the left, near the centre of the back stage and visibly saw a heat pump. With her eyes keen of 20/20 vision she read that the air conditioning was set for winter. Frowning she pulled her attention back to their little circle before trying to catch Asami’s attention. She stared at the girl with an intent stare, obvious on anything else but her. She could hear what the man was saying, but she really wanted alone time with Asami. Just then, as soon as the man stopped speaking, he handed over a thick book, and Amara opened it to the very first page. The index page with characters written beneath said titles. Amara read Sophie’s name on all songs but one. the ‘into the light’ song. And then a thought popped into her head. Was this a set up? Why would she miss the last song of the Opera? This doesn’t feel right. Amarantha closed the book before looking up at the man. “Why is Sophie not on stage during the last song? The title, Into The Light, speaks volumes that the song has a meaning of its own. And if I read the lyrics now. Death may be included. In fact, she is playing roles on all songs but one. Why so? Is she not the main protagonist?” After than man answered her question, on the assumption that he did, Asami would ask a good question. Even the host pulled a face which showed his surprise. It was as though he hadn’t even thought of that. Amarantha breamed a smile. She was really happy with Asami’s quick topic. She didn’t miss a thing. “Err-yes. It depends on how the performance is played out. In fact,” As he opens a book of his own, and after finding his page he then said. “Oh page one hundred and fifteen, it says that, ah yes. She will be in a wedding dress, mourning the loss of her ‘lover’ from the scene ‘I dreamed a dream.’ In fact, it says here that all actors will be dressed as bride maids and such. I am sure when you read the page you will understand.” As soon as he closed the book, Amara scoffed rather unlady like. That do not help much… “Very well. I presume if we think of any more questions, we seek you? Yes? If Asami does not have any more questions, we will like to see Sophie now.” With a look at Asami, she would frown slightly. She would speak with her about his reaction later. Right now, she wanted to check up on this, Sophie… Attire: Knife x 4 TEMPLATE NOT MINE

[A 5 A M 1 -- N4GA]

Meeting Sophie Morgenstern

Before my question got answered, Amarantha began interrogating the host as if he were a suspect within this case. I remain silent, although I did frown at the older woman. When Amarantha spoke of how the “ghost” knew of the My Immortal scene and whether it would be mentioned on a scene planner which will be given out to the audience upon arrival. But the man’s reply was that they are given a red card with their set numbers on them. So the audience was not going to know what the scenes were.

If I was going to lead a performance, I would have given the synopsis of the performance by stating what scenes will be playing to alert the audience of the shows actual record time. And upon seeing the red card Amara had handed me, none of this was mentioned. This had left me feeling suspicious. The way the host was behaving toward Amarantha’s questions suggested that he was trying to hide something. Could he be the culprit behind the scene? I glance toward Amara for a few minutes, but she seemed to be interested in something near the stage. I had looked away when her gaze tuned itself to mine.

Amara asked another question regarding Sophie’s involvement in the final song. Curious, I flicked to the page in question and noticed that her name was not present. Now I could see why Amarantha was so suspicious. I wanted to study this man as I feel as if he is not giving us the full picture. Closing the booklet, I listen as he not only answered her question, but mine as well. So it depends if the kidnapping proves successful. Now, I really want to talk to Sophie. Once the questions were over, my attention shifted from Amarantha to the backstage door as the host lead us through it.

Through the door we went down a somewhat narrow, yet moderately lit hallway. The walls on both sides of the hall were cracked and had perhaps once been painted dark red. It looked as if someone had painted the wall in blood and had left it to dry. I supress a shudder as I follow the host hopefully with Amarantha taking up the rear. Once we left the hall, we entered onto the actual stage and I realized that the faint noises I heard in the background were indeed the cast. “You lot are aware that we were able to hear you from out in the audience!” The host snapped, drawing all attention onto us.

I shrank at this and stepped further behind Amarantha, using the booklet as a cover. I scan the lines as the host spoke. “This is Amarantha and Asami, they are the stand-ins for the play and will be singing with Sophie. Now, can anyone tell me where she is?” The host asked, flipping over a piece of paper attached to his clipboard. “Sophie is in the dressing room, sir. Would you like me to take them to see her?” A young boy whose voice I guessed would be a soprano asked. The host shook his head and gestured for Amarantha and I to follow him.

[Celaena Kamyuja]

Once their questions were answered, and Amara could not think of any more at the time. Both woman were lead through a corridor which was narrow yet moderately lit. Amara followed the rear, studying Asami’s head and nothing else. Her thoughts were deep and directed straight toward the case at hand. And she found she trusted no one, only Asami. Even the host seemed crocked as though he was indeed hiding something. Amara wondered if Asami picked up on that too. But she had not pulled her aside yet and ask. She won’t do that until they were alone. As Amara followed the two before her into another much larger room, her eyes immediately searched for exits. Including the one she had just walked through, there was only one more doorway, located directly in the centre of the far right wall. And by what she could see from where she was standing, approximately four steps from the doorway behind her, the second entry was another hallway with more doors attached to separate rooms along the narrow hallway itself. There were no windows, however there was one air conditioner which was set on summer or autumn. Even with her good vision, she was still too far away to properly see it but the heat coming from it identify one of the said weathers. The room she stood in now was large, with drapes in the colour of red covering the walls (much like our movie theatre lol). The room shape was rather square with high ceilings. The ceiling painted white, with gold frames, much fashionable for an Opera house, however not as posh as the lobby. Amara gathered this to be either a practice chamber with a doorway attached to the dressing chambers. This room however held items of such: chairs, one table in the far left corner with water bottles placed on top of the lace covering. Lunch of nothing appealing and glasses. The ground was wood, polished and clean. And the people finally in the room were four men, one boy, and six woman with the same amount of maids and two children, girls. As soon as the host blasted for the noise the people were making, Amara turned her attention onto a fleeting Asami before staring at the people inside the room with a calm expression. She however did whisper for Asami’s ears only telling her to show no fear. But if the woman heard or not, was up to her. After a moment a boy answered the hosts orders and suggested if he should show her and her partner to Sophie’s room. The host shook his head and offered Amara to follow. However Amara opened her mouth to speak inside of moving. “No. Actually Sir. I prefer if the boy showed us. Thank you.” She then moved and approached the said boy and helped him along. Amarantha didn’t bother to look at the host, instead studied the boy with a keen observation. Brown hair, blush cheeks, pink lipstick. Young roughly eight years old. Dressed in brown overall shorts which could pull off as work clothes. With a small smile, she would follow the boy who had by then made his move toward the doorway leading to the changing chambers. She left Asami to do her own thing, either talk the other people, the host, or follow her in… Attire: Knife x 4 TEMPLATE NOT MINE

[A 5 A M 1 -- N4GA]

More Questions

Amarantha had intercepted the host in his attempt to lead us toward Sophie’s room. My attention fell upon the kunochi as she smiled down at the child. His large eyes roamed over Amara’s with such interest that he nodded a little too hard before reaching out to grab her hand. Should the chuunin grab his hand, the boy would lead her down the hall and open the first door on the left before stepping side and allowing Amarantha into the room first.

I decided to remain behind and approach the group of women huddling around by the curtain. Six women were reading over the booklets in their hands and murmuring in soft tones. Upon seeing me approach the group, I open the booklet in my hands and sits down with them. “Hi ladies, what part of the songs will you be singing?” I ask yet received no direct answer. A woman approximately 17 years old leaned toward me and whispered “Don’t trust the director, he’s a nasty man.” Before she leaned back toward the booklet and begun singing one of the songs on it.

“I dreamed a dream in time gone by
When hope was high and life worth living
I dreamed that love would never die
I prayed that God would be forgiving

Then I was young and unafraid
And dreams were made and used and wasted
There was no ransom to be paid
No song unsung, no wine untasted..”

Her voice was absolutely beautiful. I stared at her in utter astonishment and smiled when she looked at me. All the women in the group turned to look at me. One woman, sitting to my left pointed toward the third verse on my booklet. “Sing that using the tune Maria had used.” She said, encouraging me. I stared down at it and began to read:

“But the tigers come at night
With their voices soft as thunder
As they tear your hopes apart
And they turn your dreams to shame..”

After I had finished, the six women started applauding with large smiles. “You have a wonderful voice, Asami.” The woman to my left said. “I agree, maybe we should get her to sing the song itself. What do you think Susie?” Maria asked, tapping the knee of the woman to my left. Susie nodded and turned toward the others. “What do you all think?” She asked. The other four women nodded. Susie stood up and moved away from the group in search for the host.

I take this time to ask the girls what Maria had meant about the host. “What’s wrong with the director? Maria, why don’t you trust him?” I ask, glancing around to see if the man was not nearby. Maria looked ashen, yet she leaned forward and spoke in a hushed tone. “He acts so weird around Sophie.. And Josephine was raped three days ago.” She said. “She was raped because she turned him down.. Or so the rumours say.” A pretty blonde said. “So make sure you and that other woman stay away from him, don’t let him get too close!” Maria said just as Susie returned with the host.

[Celaena Kamyuja]

Amarantha was not used to children being so straightforward, and so as he gripped her hand in eagerness, Amara felt her smile tighten on her face before she released him once he led her to the first door within the corridor. He didn’t bother to knock she realized and so when the door was opened and she took herself into the room, she noticed no exits besides the one entry she had just pasted. No windows, however plenty of flowers and candles, the room was very feminine. Her first words since entering the room was to apologize for her abrupt entrance. Amarantha’s voice was extremely soft, very much like silk, and as her eyes fell upon Sophie, regarding her age to be only around eighteen or so, Sophie was pretty. She sat in front of an exquisite dressing table which the Kamyuja immediately noticed was Antique and oak with a large mirror. But what Amara also noticed was how saw the girl looked. Her eyes which Amara would guess at one stage would be bright like flame were now dull and frighten. She was pale with long dark hair, and even though her hair was set nicely ready for her performance, she looked too much like a porcelain doll, fragile. Weak. She didn’t stir as soon as Amara spoke, so she helped herself into the room, and approached the table noticing letters, four of them. She was about to turn her attention onto the girl until she saw the familiar name. Kurozawa written at the bottom in neat script. She picked up one letter and read silently to herself, obvious to the boy in the doorway. "My dearest Sophie, You’ve asked me to stop writing these letters. You’ve told me that things will never change between us. But I can’t, Sophie. I can’t just … let you go… Kurozawa." Amara placed down the letter before picking up the next one. This one read: "Your secret admirer, I have been watching you for a long time. We usually make eye contact and smile, but I’m shy to approach you. I know a few things about you, your name is Sophie and you like the nickname Phie Phie. You like red roses and cups of green tea. And you love to talk a lot. I also love your long beautiful hair and slender legs. But why don’t you wear short dresses anymore? Kurozawa." Amarantha shivered at the one before placing the letter down and picking up the second to last one. This letter read: "Sophie, Sophie, Sophie, I am going to hurt you if you sing this Friday the thirteenth. I’m going to make you scream and beg before I take you. We will make the best family you and I… Kurozawa." She allowed the letter to fall from her fingertips before turning to the boy standing in the doorway. She immediately felt uneasy by the way he was staring at her, but with the next blink of her eyes, whatever she saw from him was replaced by the pure innocence of a child. She smiled before speaking kindly. “Darling, can you spare Sophie and I some time alone please?” Amarantha didn’t see the boy’s face change. Her attention fell upon the girl with a blank expression. However the boy’s face was one of worry and possibly anger. As Amara looked over at him since he didn’t leave straight away, what facial expressions he did show quickly disappeared when he spoke cheerfully: “OK. I’ll be waiting outside the door.” As soon as the door closed behind him, she knelt down before Sophie before touching her chin with her thumb and index finger. As soon as the girls eyes met Amara’s own, Amara asked in a gentle voice, mindful of the boy behind the door, and the girls scared behavior. “Do you know who Kurozawa is?” Amarantha wasn't sure the girl was going to speak. She seemed empty. But when she did, it made Amarantha's insides twist ever so slightly: “Yes. I recognize his handwriting. I have seen it before. He’s going to hurt me. The Host! The Host is Kurozawa! He's going to hurt me!” Attire: Knife x 4 TEMPLATE NOT MINE

Sophie

[A 5 A M 1 -- N4GA]

Sing For Me

“You really should hear her sing!” Susie had said, practically dragging the host toward me by the arm. My expression hardened slightly at the way his gaze slid over the girls. But once it fell upon me, I received an expression that I couldn’t identify. “So you can sing I Dreamed A Dream, can you? That will be handy for Sophie. Can you sing Ever Dream for me?” He said, tucking the clipboard beneath his right arm.

Maria began humming the tune for me before pointing toward the lyrics on my opened booklet:

“Ever felt away with me
Just once that all I need
Entwined in finding you one day…

Ever felt away without me
My love, it lies so deep
Ever dream of me…”

I trail off for a moment after Susie stated that the beginning bit was a brief instrumental. The host continued to watch me as I sat there, scanning the lyrics before continuing at Maria’s note:

“Would you do it with me
Heal the scars and change the stairs
Would you do it for me
Turn loose the heaven within

I’d take you away
Castaway on a lonely day
Bosom for a teary cheek
My song can but borrow your grace..”

“Ever felt away with me
Just once that all I need
Entwined in finding you one day…”

Maria begins, nudging me in the side before singing again..

“Ever felt away without me
My love it lies so deep
Ever dream of me…”

Both Maria and I harmonised gently, Maria taking the higher note and singing with such grace that my chest swelled. The hose was silent for a good moment, simply taking in my level of tone and the power of my voice. His nodded his approval and jotted something down on his clipboard. “You and Maria will sing the song. Now, we need to hear your partner sing now. Asami, can you go to Sophie’s room and collect Amarantha please?” The host then said before taking the seat I was once seated in once I stepped away from the women. I did not fail to see the worried look in Maria’s eyes as I moved into the hallway.

The boy remained outside the room, back against the door with a scowl upon his face. “Did they kick you out, son?” I ask, stopping 50 centimeters away from him. The boy nodded before knocking on the door and opening it. Peeking my head inside, I smiled upon a beautiful girl sitting down in a chair behind a vanity table and Amara knelling down in front of her. “Host wants to hear you sing.” I said to Amarantha while shooting Sophie an apologetic smile.

[Celaena Kamyuja]

The Kamyuja felt the overwhelming urge to visit some remote, frozen corner of the world when she could look at a plain white landscape for a while. “What,” she asked, shaking her head, “makes you think it is the host?” When no reply was given, Amarantha was going to press for an answer. “Sophie,” she purred softly with a hit of impatience, “if you are not going to answer my questions then do not expect help form me. I do not like having my time wasted. Now; I ask you again. What makes you think the host is Kurozawa?” As Sophie’s lip began to quiver, Amarantha bit her lip and tried not to yell at the girl. Still knelled at the knees, she studied the girl with a closer inspection. She said that she suspected the host because he has the same handwriting. However to Amarantha ways of thinking, handwriting can be forged. When no answer was farther given, Amara sighed and patted the girl’s hair softly, trying for a softer approach. She even felt her facial muscles melt to a calmer approachable side. The side which makes her look really innocent and young when she was indeed the total opposite. “Breathe dearie,” she tugged the girls fringe away from her eyes before resting her hands in Sophie’s lap, “my partner and I will protect you no matter what. We will get the harasser and he will be convicted of his crimes and sent away. I promise you this, but we must know for sure who this Kurozawa is, so please try and think of something that might seem suspicious. Even if what you might think seems ridiculous, every detail helps. Is there anyone else you might feel scared to be around with, besides the host? Any girls here? Boys?” Just then she remembered the boy, the clinging child. And she wondered if he was listening in to what they were talking about. She leaned in closer, so much that her hair was pooling at the ground and whispered softly. “Are you afraid he might hear you, dearie? Hmm?” Amarantha tilted her head into the direction of the door before looking at Sophie with innocent eyes. As Sophie nodded slowly, Amara released air she wasn’t aware of holding, it left her nose in a rush before she whispered again. “Are you afraid of him? The boy?” The question was out, and for some odd reason, she felt as though she was getting somewhere. Another nod and she tapped Sophie’s hand softly. Amarantha was about to ask another question when she felt a tugging deep inside her. And then she felt the emotions, which do not belong to her. She counted the beats of her heart before a voice from her soul asked a question of its own: Daughter of mine, ask the girl why she fears the boy. And I want to know his name. She waited silently, staring at Sophie’s haunted eyes before voicing her worries back to her father’s soul, his personality which was latched onto hers and Adelpha’s by training survival. Will she tolerate any more questions, father? She does not seem to be coping well as of now. I foresee a comatose forming before me very eyes. She’s going to collapse with fear and insanity. Tell me why I must ask about the boy? At first she thought her father was not going to answer. It grew cold as the telepathic line the host uses with her alter ego and the essences of her father and possibly her mother. But then he spoke again, and along came with his emotions once more. Her psychological state of mind is not as serious as yours my dear. I do not like this boy. I never liked clingy children and he seemed far too innocent that it did not feel nor seem natural. The boy does not have your charm in that category, dear. The boy’s name will give us power. We must know it. Amarantha sighed before slipping her index, middle and thumb finger beneath Sophie’s chin. And then she whispered. “The boy dearie,” she purred softly, looking into her eyes intently yet with all calmness, “what is the boy’s name? And why you afraid of him so? Tell me, dearie, only then can I help you.” And she though she wasn’t going to reply, but then she breathed in and opened her mouth. Sophie whispered softly, her eyes darting toward the door. “He goes by the name of James. Yet when he is talking to the host, the host calls him Yuta. I even read the script in these books and that name is not mentioned. Look,” as she pulled the book upon her lap and opens it to the first page, she points out the names and reads softly, “see, here it reads the music scene of the musicians and orchestras. I am mentioned here, and right next to my name is James. No Yuta anywhere. He scares me as much as the host does. He-he follows me around, w-watches me. James a good boy, but he is strange. The host growls most of the time. And his handwriting is the same as those printed in these letters. I’m scared of them both, but I am telling you! The host is Kurozawa!” I patted her hair once more before removing the book and placing it back onto the table. You satisfied now, father? With all that terrified yelling, the boy outside the door could have heard everything. I cannot cope keeping the girl calm when all I wish to do is put her out of her misery. Now I bet you are proud of making me a monster, but her outburst could have blown the whole thing! Outside the door voices approached in volume, and Amarantha recognized Asami’s right away. But then she heard her father’s voice too: Bite your tongue! A mission is always dangerous and with hidden problems. Who care of poor Sophie! If you die, I die. And don’t you forget it! I do not trust this boy. I did not pick up any vibes form the host, but when the boy touched you, it was enough to awake me from my slumber. Pay attention to everything! As a knock sounded the arrival of whomever was on the other side, Amarantha was seething. And as the door opened, it took all her strength not to yell at the abrupt rudeness. Whatever happened to one saying, “Come in.” Amarantha’s gaze collided with the boy’s, James, and a sensation of something ran up and down her spine. Too played of innocence. Sophie fears him, father is suspicious of him. I now understand and feel the same way. As Amara stared up as Asami pokes her head in and she forces a smile when her partner says that she was up for singing. Nodding once she agreed silently that things must move one now and turn to face Sophie. “Well, it seems I am wanted. Do come along, dearie, I do not wish you to be left alone. Oh I know, we can read over these lyrics and see if we can harmonize as one? How does that sound? Hmm?” As she stood up from kneeling in front of Sophie, she then remembers a question which has been bugging her for so long. Playfully pulling Sophie up from her chair she leans in and whispers. “Oh and why are you singing on all songs but the last one? Into The Light seems to be an important part in the play. Are you not the lead singer?” As she whispered from the corner of her eye she studied James face. Indeed the boy is strange. Come to think of it, he stares far too intently for one of a child who does not seem to be like the others, who come only for the play. Stalker? She heard Adelpha ask questionably. Amara frowned as Sophie whispered back. “Oh, James talked to the host about it … he said he didn’t want me in the play and so he told the host. He pulled me out of it even when I said I wanted to do it. I don’t even get to bow at the end when the curtain drops…” I smiled, and hugged her, mentally gagging before approaching the doorway. Walking next to Asami, if she should follow, she enters the practice chamber once more before Amara speaks up. “I believe you wish to hear me sing, host? Got a song in mind?” As he reads though the pages of the book, he stops at a page before smiling smugly. “Page one hundred and thirty two.” Sophie opens her book and turns to that page, meanwhile a girl from the group speaks. “Into the Light?! But host, that song is hard to sing. So dramatic and sad.” Amara looked up at the girl and smiles slightly before looking down at the lyrics written in the book. After the room silenced, she opened her mouth and singed. Notes swelled from her lips and the dread she applied to the lyrics were wrapped heavily. As she sang each word, she made it so that they felt every emotion the artist felt when writing the lyrics. It was as though she had transformed them to the scene, different from the play scene, but when she sang, she made it so that they felt the pain, the sorrow and the forthcoming loneliness the song stands for to Amara’s understanding. Even if Amara was to sing this, she would have chosen a sharper heavier genre instead of this pure operatic theme. However still, each note was hit perfectly, and in the right moment, lingering when needed, holding each note wholly and completely, seemingly going on forever. And when she finished and her lips sealed shut, deep down she heard her father speak up, and with Adelpha laughing in the background. Her soul basically glowing with such happiness the two other personalities, souls showed. Now that should shut them up…” He had said with hidden pride. Singing - Master - 125/125 Rank: "E" (5 TP at all times) Skill: Skill Effect: A skill that turns a character into an accomplished singer. Special: --- Drawback: --- Description: The Character with this skill is an accomplished singer and can use this ability to entertain others and perhaps earn a small living. No skill check is required to sing in most circumstances. The character can also create choral works on a successful skill check. Use Musical Instrument Task Skills to see what a user can do and the difficulty checks as Musical Instrument Task Skills are similar to Singing. Look in Task Skills thread found in the Skills and Traits Index for more information. Each time learned user gets 5 die roll to increase the skill. Limit: --- Attire: Knife x 4 TEMPLATE NOT MINE

[A 5 A M 1 -- N4GA]

Discussion Time

When I had approached the room it was clear that Amarantha was interrogating Sophie. The woman was terrified! But was it of Amara or the subject they were discussing? I watch as the main actress stands with the aid of Amara and approaches the door. My eyes flicker toward the hallway where the host is waiting nearby and then briefly over toward the boy, who stared at Sophie as if she were a goddess rather than a simple singer.

Once out in the hall, I follow quietly behind Amara, taking up the rear while the boy led the two females out into the stage area. The large red curtain rippled slightly as the group of girls huddled near it. Maria’s large eyes were wide as Sophie emerged from the hall. The host gave the three of us a once over while the boy moved off to stand near the group of women 3 meters to Amara’s left. And at once Sophie and Amara began singing.

The song was dreadfully morbid. Yet the tones the two women used were beautiful. Gentle even. I wasn’t entirely sure who took the higher note, but it was sung beautifully for a morbid song. “No wonder they made that the ending song.” I muttered once the stage grew silent. “Alright, curtains up in ten minutes! Everyone move into position. Sophie you’re needed in the front for the opening scene. Amarantha and Asami will be behind you with you being the point. As soon as the curtain raises the song will begin.”

The host then wondered off toward the group of girls as they moved away from the stage. Already I could hear the murmur of the crowed. Flattening the hem of my kimono, I move toward Sophie and Amara and lean in close to Amara to speak in a quiet voice. “The group of girls over there,” I gesture toward the further end of the stage to where the group of girls had gathered with a jerk of the head, “all stated that the host has been rumoured to have raped one of the other singers three days ago. They stated that he acts weird around Sophie as well.”

I pulled back and moved exactly 2 meters to the left of Amara and 2 meters to the left of Sophie who stood at an 80 degree angle from me. No doubt Amara would do the same once the brief exchange was over. The audience on the other side of the curtain stopped murmuring and the music soon began to play. I glance around the stage warily as the stages were all shoved and pulled out of the way and people dashed to their positions. We were about to begin..

[Celaena Kamyuja]

As soon as her mouth closed after her singing example, it was finally time to get serious. Ten minutes and then curtain call. Amara had touched Sophie’s shoulder and pulled a small smile before they all moved into position, once the instructions was voice that is. Amarantha was staring down at her clothes when Asami leaned in close and spoke of her findings. But what she heard was a surprise before her face harden to that of hatred and disgust. Rape. Men a truly pigs! But then, rumor or not, the fact is the same. Curse all man! As the woman pulled back to her position, Amara shifted to her side, eyes studying Sophie’s head before she whispered in return. “This place is full of rumors. Sophie is afraid of not only the host but,” and she turned her eyes onto Asami then, “the boy as well. What I learned is that the boy’s name is James, yet she heard point blankly that he also answers by the name of Yuta. The host called him Yuta. Matter of fact I am even uncomfortable by the boy. Now she says that the letters are written by the host. But if you think of it as I have, anyone can copy anyone’s print. We are going to need solid proof. Must catch them in the act…” Amara quickly slipped back into place, a mirror image of Asami’s position with Sophie in the middle, 2 meters to her right yet standing in front much like a triangle. She fussed with her outfit before staring straight ahead. What? No costume? Amara looked left, then right. Before turning to look behind her. Everybody were getting into their positions, and much to her bad luck, everybody would see her change if she used anything special. Grunting she looked over at Asami and quickly calculated the woman’s appearance. Her clothes, hair, make-up, even those awful shoes before dashing off for a place to hide so that she could perform something without been seen. Now, if the room had been dark then it wouldn’t have been a problem, but it was not. She could see everybody and they would be able to see her. It was less than ten minutes now, and just as she found an empty corner, concealed to prying eyes, she hastily preformed the hand seals and by the master of illusions, her appearance quickly changed. Asami’s attire came into view. The white Tomesode kimono with the black designed Obi tied neatly around her waist. And with the image pattern printed at the bottom of the kimono a complete replica to Asami’s dress. Her boots were removed and by the illusion black Geta was replaced. Even with the Genjutsu quickly succeeding into play, she could still feel her knives tucked in with her boots. Her extremely long hair was a replication of Asami’s which was piled up on top of her head with large clips keeping the strands in place. As Amara felt around with her hands, she would feel the same style taking place. Calming herself, she peeked out and only seeing the backs of people, she dashed out into the open, abhor of the Geta cutting her delicate feet and slipped herself through the actor and actresses until she was right next to Asami. Leaning down she whispered. “Did I miss anything?” Before moving over and standing in position, her kimono clinging to her body like a second skin. Naturally it was her actual clothes she had dressed in require to this mission, but to everyone else, she was a chip off the old block twin of Asami Naga. Calming her nerves and applying an emotionless face, it was exactly the time when everybody was ready and the curtains went up and the music was well in truly in swing. With a swallow, she watched as Sophie started the song, her voice soft yet chilly for the scene. Applause immediately flooded the room with cheers of approval. How can you see into my eyes like open doors? Leading you down into my core where I've become so numb Without a soul my spirit's sleeping somewhere cold Until you find it there and lead it back home… The singing went as it goes: Sophie started the first line and as soon as the line hit the word 'soul' Amara summoned up her voice and correspond her merging of vocal cords to make it more hauntingly beautiful. However she was attentive as to see where Asami will begin her harmonizing. After all, with such short notice they had not given word where they would sing and how they should do it. Attire | Used: Knife x 4 Disguise Self [10] [1/8 posts] Rank: "D" Skill: GenJutsu Effect: User can make themselves--including clothing, armor, weapons, and equipment--look different. Special: "Handseals" Drawback: --- Description: Affects anyone who sees the user. The user is able to perform this technique on themselves. duration of this technique lasts for 50 minutes per class level. User can seem 1 foot shorter or taller, thin, fat, or in between. User cannot change their body type. For example, a human user could look human, humanoid, or like any other human-shaped bipedal creature. Otherwise, the extent of the apparent change is up to the user. The user could add or obscure a minor feature or look like an entirely different person. The Jutsu does not provide the abilities or mannerisms of the chosen form, nor does it alter the perceived tactile (touch) or audible (sound) properties of the user or their equipment. A battleaxe made to look like a dagger still functions as a battleaxe. A creature that interacts with the Glamour gets a save to recognize it as an illusion. For example, a creature that touched the user and realized that the tactile sensation did not match the visual one would be entitled to such a save. Limit: Must know the Glamour Perception.

TEMPLATE NOT MINE

[A 5 A M 1 -- N4GA]

Songbirds

So Sophie was suspicious of the host as well as the boy. My gaze shifted around to locate James, but wasn’t able to. Amarantha’s words bought me no comfort and since we were about to sing within the next few minutes, I didn’t have the time to respond. The curtain was raising and Sophie’s voice was strong as the music poured out of her. I had no idea where to step in with my song, but Amarantha begun singing toward the end of the opening verse.

However, once Amarantha and Sophie said the word “home”, immediately the music flared to life and Sophie sprang to life as she moved around the stage in a somewhat morbid dance routine. Fortunate for me, I had been watching the backstage folk while Amarantha was talking with Sophie and had picked up on some of the moves. My voice chipped in as soon as the second verse began..

“Now that I know what I'm without
You can't just leave me
Breathe into me and make me real
Bring me to life..”

I was surprised to see that Sophie had stopped singing at the beginning of the second verse and that my voice was strong and true. In the background I heard a collective gasp as Maria clasped her hands together in joy. I threw myself around the stage with Sophie and clasped hands with her as she attempted to lean off the stages edge her voice cascaded the musicians below. I grabbed her and held her steady, counting to sixteen in my head before gentle whisking her back and catching her in my arms as we spun around on the stage.

My gaze shifted toward Amarantha’s as I released Sophie to her charge.

“Frozen inside without your touch
Without your love, darling
Only you are the life among the dead..”

James started singing then, moving onto the stage with such grace that it uplifted the audience. He moved toward Sophie with a greedy look in his eyes as he sung the male notes. Sophie’s responses were pleas rather than notes and the look James gave her had struck a chord in me. The look was of pure lust. My body twisted gently as I moved away from Sophie, knowing that Amarantha would have moved also. Should Amarantha have moved at the same time as me, the pair of us would create a distance of 2.6 meters away from the edge of the stage where Sophie and James were singing and dancing.

My hands would reach out and attempt to grab Amarantha’s as part of the dance routine had instructed and hoped that she would grab them. If she had, I would pull her close to me into an embrace relating to the woman and child singing. “Did you see that? The look he gave her!” I hiss, whisking Amarantha around in my arms and leaning forward again as I tried grabbing her waist. “It was lust. He’s Kurozawa!”

[Celaena Kamyuja]

As soon as the dancing began, memories of her dancing sometime before hand in a different sort of situation fell into mind. She didn’t know what to do, however thankfully she could see Asami from the corner of her eye and basically mirrored her dancing movements, trying to make them elegant and precise as she continued to sing a song so emotional that she was having trouble. However just listening to Asami sing, one with no experience, well as far as Amara could tell, she was pleased, extremely happy in fact that said emotion alone was making her a bundle of nerves which she was having difficulty hiding and controlling. Amara stopped singing when the second verse started and she just realised it then that it was simply Asami singing alone. Sophie had stopped singing also but was as elegant as ever, Amara was envious. However thanks to her emotionless upbringing her face was a blank mask. With her little dance of her own, somehow it matched with the other dance, and gliding over to continue being near the other two, Amara began swaying, just when the boy appeared and started to sing. Each sway was in tune with James voice, and as he sang, her gaze levelled with the boy’s face and suspicion turned to full out wired move. Amarantha was now fully informed. Mayday, Mayday! I believe I was correct, daughter. The boy is your target. Amara swallowed and waltzed toward Sophie exquisitely, graceful with each step, twist and turn. She made it so her hands looked like they were flowing continuously in water. Not masterful was her dancing, but acceptable enough. The Kamyuja noticed that she had moved at the exact same time Asami had, and they were in close position in a matter of seconds, arriving close to Sophie basically at the same time. Hands glided out of nowhere and Amara reached out and taken hold of Asami’s grip completing their dance routine. A slight tug would send her body over and she would sway in while listening into what Asami had whispered. Their combined dance was perfect, but it wasn’t even noticed, the crowd’s attention was on the boy. Hands at her waist Asami confirmed her thoughts. They had found Kurozawa. Amara nodded firmly before leaping into the song, gliding elegantly toward James, the dance perfectly still, she sang strongly, merging her voice with James and hitting each note completely. Amara was basically beside James, standing on his right, dancing in a pleading sway, her hands opened with arms rose forward. What the hell was she going to do now? …Without a thought, without a voice, without a soul Don't let me die here There must be something more Bring me to life… Maybe the completion of this mission will be done without her help. If they could somehow get Kurozawa backstage during break, then singing the rest of the songs won’t need to be done. I’m working on it, Sophie! Attire: Knife x 4 Disguise Self [10] [2/8 posts] Rank: "D" Skill: GenJutsu Effect: User can make themselves--including clothing, armor, weapons, and equipment--look different. Special: "Handseals" Drawback: --- Description: Affects anyone who sees the user. The user is able to perform this technique on themselves. duration of this technique lasts for 50 minutes per class level. User can seem 1 foot shorter or taller, thin, fat, or in between. User cannot change their body type. For example, a human user could look human, humanoid, or like any other human-shaped bipedal creature. Otherwise, the extent of the apparent change is up to the user. The user could add or obscure a minor feature or look like an entirely different person. The Jutsu does not provide the abilities or mannerisms of the chosen form, nor does it alter the perceived tactile (touch) or audible (sound) properties of the user or their equipment. A battleaxe made to look like a dagger still functions as a battleaxe. A creature that interacts with the Glamour gets a save to recognize it as an illusion. For example, a creature that touched the user and realized that the tactile sensation did not match the visual one would be entitled to such a save. Limit: Must know the Glamour Perception. TEMPLATE NOT MINE

[A 5 A M 1 -- N4GA]

Kurozawa

Still keeping to the routine, Amarantha glided toward Sophie with me mirroring the chuunin’s movements exactly. Each step was carefully placed, my chakra flaring up toward my right hand as I moved around the stage, nearing James and Sophie’s flailing figures. However, rather than sticking to the note he had given the actress, James; or should I say Kurozawa suddenly threw what looked like a vile of red liquid onto the stage just in front of Amarantha.

The vile shattered and a bright red smoke enveloped the four of us. Sophie screamed and I leaped forward, arms reaching out to grab the female. I spotted her outstretched hand in the smoke as it rose upward and made a purchase, cutting off the chakra flow as I did so. “Amara!” I shouted, “get the boy!” I snapped, ignoring the fact that she was the chuunin and I wasn’t. But since she was in fact the closest to him, I may as well shout it. “Let me go!” Sophie screamed, wrapping her slender fingers around my wrist. I latch on to her like a leech.

The crowd gasped and a few women screamed, the lights went haywire and the curtain fell down abruptly. “Move!” I shouted, yanking Sophie back from the edge of the stage so that the curtain will not crush her. As for Kurozawa? Amarantha will deal with him, I knew it.

[Celaena Kamyuja]

Today was the day a thousand dreams would die and a single dream would be born. Their dance routine was cancelled just as soon as bright red smoke encircled the stage, blinding the figures and the getaway of Kurozawa who had dropped the vile as soon as he knew he was caught. Amara froze momentarily as she was blinded by the change in light, it seemed she was dazed because when the red smoke went up like flames, she was basically right in front of it. She sheltered her face to shield an unknown impact should one come, which she didn’t know but could happen. Sound erupted and it was overwhelming. But just as she was lowering her arms, she heard Asami yell for her to get the boy. I know, I know. I am a little rusty... She made her move. The female leaped forward, her fingers out like spider legs, or daggers and prodded the near fading smoke. Since the lights danced about, amok due to the chemicals of whatever Kurozawa made for the smoke, the Kamyuja was momentarily still blind. “Oh stuff this.” She muttered, realising that she wasn’t getting anywhere, believing the boy to be off the stage now. Irritable because she felt useless, she awakened her minds eyes while looking with her main ones. She could hear Sophie behind her, Asami dealing with the girl, and she could hear the crowd screaming. In front of her, she could also hear footsteps. The smoke had faded but her eyes had yet to adjust to the flashing lights of the stage. Haywire indeed. Within seconds, she could see multiple chakra systems around her, two behind her which she immediately realised to be Sophie’s rather weak system and Asami’s rather brightened one. Neither strong, but she realised that Sophie’s chakra network was different from Asami’s and her-selves. She’s not a shinobi. Looking around, she picked up more nin-shinobi chakra pathways. And upon her actual eyes seeing their faces, they were the host, musicians, and backstage. No Kurozawa. A loud thud sounded to her left and she turned and peered into the darkness. Non-shinobi chakra networks and, oh what do I see? One fleeting chakra network which was indeed shinobi material. Dashing toward the edge of the stage and seeing all at once that the curtain had fallen, she leaped over it and landed off the stage and neatly upon the ground, beside the musicians and their instruments. Drawing out her knife from her right boot, she stood up and dashed toward the fleeting figure. Upon nearing she noticed that it was indeed Kurozawa, but he looked somewhat different. His hair was lengthening and changing colour, from dark to pink. The build was changing too. Shoving people out of her way, she performed one Oshi to advance upon Kurozawa, mindlessly clubbing people out of her way, not bothering to use any other Shunshins to get close to her target. She no longer cared, her gaze was locked on the boy and that was all that mattered. Kurozawa was changing to a woman! I better of loose him! Just as she was within reaching distance, Kurozawa, no a woman with pink hair startled her without even trying. “WHAT THE FUCK?!” He had one eye in the back of his head. Just below the short pink hairline. And it was staring at her. Just then Kurozawa stopped moving and turned and faced her. They were now at the entrance of the threatre, the doors now behind him. Amarantha however did not stop, she slowed her advance, but did not stop running. Her eyes studied the multiple mouths upon the chest of Kurozawa. MOUTHS! And that was when she realised what he was. Fuck! Why do I always run in with the Kedōin shit clan, or whatever it is?! He err She looked confident, and now Amara felt hesitant. She had not face a Kedoin before, well not in an actual battle. Eh, it didn’t matter, she wasn’t going to give it a chance. Her mind’s eye was still locked on his chakra system, and within striking distance of approximately three meters as she did not stop her advance, she suddenly disappeared. It was all planned in a matter of seconds. And hopefully she will only needed one shot. As she thought, with her being so close to him at the time she disappeared from view, he stumbled and was immediately looking around frantically. That was the only thing she needed. Silently she leaped into the air, nearing him and then slammed her legs down upon his shoulders as she came back down. Similar to jump frog only she didn’t jump over his head, but simply used her Meimei Undoushinkei technique to hit him hard and hit him good. She landed on her back, only to flip onto her feet once more. Her 'Disguise Self' Genjutsu had ended, but that was granted, as too was her invisibility. The Kamyuja didn't pocket her knife, it might be needed later. However so, Kurozawa was unconscious upon the floor with tongue hanging out of his main mouth. She got the bastard… Mind's Eye of the Kagura [10] [10] [50] [80] Rank: D, C, B, A, S Skill: Passive Effect: The basic technique needed in order to learn all Sensor Techniques. Special: --- Drawback: --- Description: The basic yet complex ability that allows Sensor's to find, sense, and track individuals over a vast range. This ability is done by the user closing their eyes and opening their mind's eye in order to see the advanced chakra systems around them. At A rank and above, Sensors no longer need to close their eyes in order to access their mind's eye. The user of this jutsu can only sense those up to the equivalent class rank of the rank they know. (i.e. If the user knows up to B rank in this jutsu they can sense characters of all the way from D to B rank. The basic range of this technique is ten meters. Limit: Must fulfill all requirements to become Sensor in order to learn this technique. Shunshin no Jutsu - Oshi (Body Flicker Technique – Push) [Shunshin 7 times a day] USED ONLY ONCE Rank: "C" Skill: NinJutsu/TaiJutsu Effect: A Jutsu that allows a user to rush forward in almost instantaneous speed. Used to draw the user close to the opponent. Special: --- Drawback: May use 3 times a day. May perform 1 more each time learned. Passing amount renders the user's legs immobile due to severe pain. Unable to perform again unless gained medical treatment. Must move through an opening. Unable to maneuver around obstructing objects. Can't attack while performing any Shunshin or Variation. Description: User is able to move forward in a straight line along the ground in almost instantaneous untraceable speed while temporarily masking the user's movements within 10 meters. A puff of smoke is occasionally used to disguise the user's movements. It is accomplished by focusing the user's chi along the ankles and foot. User mostly moves just with their ankles and feet. Jutsu takes up no movements. User may only use this Jutsu half of the movements may allow in a single round while rounding down. Example: User has 5 movements, user is able to perform Jutsu 2 times per round. Limit: Universal NinJutsu or Universal TaiJutsu. Invisibility, Greater [50] Rank: "B" Skill: GenJutsu Effect: A stronger version of Invisibility. Special: "Handseals" Drawback: --- Description: Affects anyone who sees the target. The user is able to perform this technique on the target they touch. The duration of this technique lasts for 5 minutes per class level. This technique may be negated. This Jutsu functions like invisibility, except that it doesn't end if the subject attacks. Limit: Must know the Glamour Perception. Must know Invisibility. Cat’s Horns: Smash Down [10] Rank: "C" Skill: TaiJutsu Effect: An attack from above where the user slams their legs down onto the opponent in a massive blow. Special: --- Drawback: --- Description: The user first circles around the opponent and quickly launches themselves up in the air. As they come down they extend their legs and quickly land a massive leg strike against the opponent's head with great strength and speed. Limit: Must learn from a Master of Meimei Undoushinkei (Divine Reflexes) Style. Must know Cat’s Horns: Silent Feet. Attire: Knife x 4 TEMPLATE NOT MINE

[A 5 A M 1 -- N4GA]

Hoard Of Voices And People

As soon as the smoke had cleared, I had yanked Sophie - rather harshly – toward me so that my right arm was how wrapped around her waist. The curtain obscured our bodies from the audience, but as for the backstage crew? The host was screaming nasty things in our direction and was attempting to grab Sophie as she clung to me like a wet cat. My eyes studied her carefully, searching for any wounds but was satisfied when there was none.

When the lead actress screamed again, I twisted her around and positioned my body between her and the host as he neared her. “What the hell do you think you are doing?” He bellowed, still attempting to reach around me in order to grab Sophie. “Remove your hands from Sophie right now! Can’t you see that she is frightened and on the verge of fa..” Too late, Sophie’s body suddenly went limp in my arms. Maria let out a gasp and Susie a cry.

“Oh for the love of God, let me see her!” The host snapped, stepping forward. As he reached the word love I already had my chakra flowing through my right arm and pooling around in my right hand which had went through a quick chain of handseals, despite holding Sophie’s limp form; so that by the time he reached “her” I grabbed his wrist like a vase and released the chakra swiftly. Electricity shot up the man’s arm before he let out a wail.

However as I grabbed him, Sophie’s body slid out of my grip and she rolled onto the floor with a thud just as the host stumbled backward, clutching his left wrist as he did so. I was already turning around to pick up Sophie when he began shouting, “what the hell did you do to my arm!” My right arm was wrapped around Sophie’s waist as her head rested against my shoulder. In response, my head snapped toward the host’s direction, my voice like venom.

“I sent a small electric current through your body, strong enough to numb your limb for a few minutes. You will be fine in twelve seconds.” I explained, moving Sophie over toward one of the chairs that the group of women had been sitting in prior to the performance. At around this time, the actress had stirring and had moved to rub the side of her head. “Where is the security?” I asked, glancing around the stage for Amarantha. “And where is Amarantha?”

SPOILER: Click to show

Lightning Release • Jolt Clamp [Raiton • Yusuburu Kasugai No Jutsu] [10]
Rank: "C" Rank
Skill: NinJutsu
Effect: A Technique used to where a user is capable of paralyzing an opponent depending on where the user touches in which paralyzes a limb of the body.
Special: "Handseals"
Drawback: ---
Description: The user concentrates an electrical current along the palm of their hand. By doing so the user is capable of pushing fourth and must grab upon the opponent in a rough like manner. Doing so the electrical current pushes against the muscles of the body of the user which temporarily paralyzes the limb or section of which was touched for Two Rounds.
Limit: Must have the Lightning Release

[Celaena Kamyuja]

The theatre room slowly started to quieten as basically all the audience had left due to the shock surprise. This was not supposed to happen. And Amarantha did wonder how much the host or the directors would lose in money after this episode. It was bound to happen, but if they got their A into G, the horde of viewers would still be able to watch the performance, after all the show must go on. In fact, just as she was studying the sleeping Kurozawa, the idea of her preforming the song, The Show Must Go On, did pop into her line of thought. She would talk to the director about it once she dealt with Kurozawa here. Shifting her knife from her right hand to her left, she performed it all in one movement and bent over and gripped his right forearm to lift him up effortlessly. Her left hand held the knife readily just in case he awoke with the desire to try and hurt her. Come to think of it, she was amazed at how easy this had turned out. Much in her favour, she didn’t have to fight just to get the job done. She gathered that he wasn’t expecting a woman such as herself whom looks so innocent to have such determination to get the job done. She didn’t really do anything, but he seemed like the type of person who was not used to be chased around by a woman, but rather likes to do the chasing instead. With his feet hanging inches or so off the ground, his head lolling to the side occasionally brushing her hair in the process, Amarantha approached the stage once more, carrying Kurozawa effortless and all with one hand. She looked like she was showing off, but she wasn’t, her attention was on other matters. Studying his breathing patterns to make sure he remains sleeping and not faking it. As she neared the broken down stage, she heard Asami speak. A good question, and decided to speak up also. “Good question dearie,” she purred rather happily, “I want to know where the directors are so that I can talk about singing one song as an introduction for this play to presume. I am sure security will get in touch with our follow AnBu and arrest Kurozawa here.” As she dropped the dead weight upon the stage, she switched her knife from her left hand, into her right before piercing the tip of the blade into Kurozawa’s female form’s shoulder, pinning him to the stage. With the body being petite, hardly any meat near the pocket hole at the shoulder, the blade of her eight inches which is roughly twenty centimeters in length and one and a half inches in width knife nailed the body through and through. God she loved stabbing things. She heard a gasp from one of the few backstage people who chose to linger, but chose to ignore them as she studied her now screaming capture. “And I knew you were fake sleeping, dearie. We have to discuss things, you and I. Things like, well I don’t know, why you are captivated with Sophie here and whether you worked alone or had a helping hand, let’s say, host here,” her eyes levelled with the host before lowering her eyes to Kurozawa again, “and don’t think about lying now, I have no problem twisting the blade. Now answer the question. I have a performance I need to finish.” With a smile, she petted Kurozawa’s pink hair from the sweating face before staring up at Asami… Attire: Knife x 4 TEMPLATE NOT MINE

[A 5 A M 1 -- N4GA]

Possible Mistake?

At the sound of Amarantha’s voice, all heads turned from the host and myself to the kunochi whom appeared to be carrying a young woman with bright pink hair. I arch a brow as she dumped the body down onto the stage seconds before ramming a knife into the woman’s shoulder, between the scapula and the clavicle. My gaze narrowed as I snapped my head in the chuunin’s direction. “That’s not Kurozawa. Are you out of your mind?!” I exclaimed, despite hearing the movement and murmured voices from behind the curtain.

“Please remain calm, ladies and gentlemen. There was a minor technical difficulty! The performance will resume in another few minutes. Please, now if you wouldn’t mind returning to your seats!” A man’s voice had called from the other side of the curtain. Was that security? Sophie let out a slight, yet audible sigh as she awoke from fainting earlier and turned her head just in time to see the host staring somewhat green-faced at Amarantha who was towering over the woman.

Instinctively, I place myself between the female pinned to the floor and Sophie so she could not see the knife protruding from her shoulder. “Are you alright, Sophie? I am terribly sorry that you had to go through that.” I said softly, tilting my head to the side to overhear the host discussing something with another cast member. “We need to resume the show, but I don’t want the ninja involved. They have done their job, send them off.” He was discussing with another woman who wore a stern face.

Stepping slightly to the side, mindful of the knife I peer around Amarantha and study the woman the host was talking to. She wore a black trumpet skirt with a pale pink corset-top and a pair of stilettos sharp enough to be a kunai. Her hair was a crimson red with a singular black streak lining the left side of her face. The hair itself was tied back into a fierce bun while thin-rimmed black glasses covered deep purple eyes. “The kunoichi are a part of the show, they cannot be asked to leave until it is over. Now clean up this mess before I have you fired!”

So that was the director. The moment the woman stopped speaking to him, she turned and approached Amarantha, the female, Sophie and I and folded her arms. “Kurozawa is a man, you have a woman. Are you sure you have the right person?” Her tone of voice grated on my nerves, and probably did wonders for Amarantha. I helped Sophie stand as the director turned her frosty attention upon us. “We have a show to continue, get to your spots and clean up that mess,” she indicated the female pinned to the floor “before the curtain raises in five minutes!” And with that she turned heel and stalked off the stage.

[Celaena Kamyuja]

Had everyone gone mad?! Fury bloomed within her chest and reviled brightly from her eyes. Her world quickly went from bright and colourful to a grey domain with alive aura’s representing follow chakra pathway systems. Amarantha had everyone’s attention but her once happy moment in capturing Kurozawa, they only saw her stabbing a female. A bite in her words ripped the sound systems of everyone within listening range. “Am I out of my mind?!” Amarantha suddenly tore the blade from the shoulder and slammed the weapon flatly on the stage surface. At once the body of Kurozawa twisted in his attempt of escaping. Amarantha’s fingers dug into the flesh of his female body and held on tight. The body stopped moving, stiff as dirt. She opened her mouth to speak again but the sound from behind the curtain caught her off guard. She was going to ask Kurazawa to explain his actions, but now that he was in the form of a woman, everybody seemed to believe that she had ‘lost her mind.’ Furious, she gritted her teeth, the sides of her mouth tearing open and blood pooling her inner mouth completely. The host the bastard! She wanted to kill him. Removing the blade had been a blinding mistake. Blood was everywhere, and Kurozawa was no longer pined to the stage. Leaping to the host would cost her captive to run freely. Damn it! She noticed how Asami placed her body in front of awaking Sophie, and Amara bit her tongue to hold back the words, the girl is fine you stupid bitch! But she was doing her job of assisting the girl so she simply grunted bitterly before glaring at the host with hatred so powerful, her chaos was awakening far too quickly. “Tell me host,” she hissed, “what are you hiding? Are you aware that James, Yuta, Kurozawa or whatever name he goes by is a member of the Kedōin clan? Why are you in a rush to have me gone? Are we getting too close to the truth? ANSWER ME!” Amarantha’s innocent appearance was quickly disappearing. Layers of hatred was starting to sink through, her Amber eyes bright like flames, she knew that this might not turn out neat if she completely loses her temper. She could feel her strength building up along with her chaos, her mind splintering as Adelpha and who else owns her soul fights for control. Her nails dung crescent moons into the bloody flesh of Kurozawa. The female form he took was a good disguise but she did wonder how long he would be able to control it before pain over took his mind. If she had to, she would peel back the layer of Kurozawa’s skin to show his true genes. Or better yet, show what she had already seen. Her Amber eyes collided with the director, a snobbish woman with a stern face. Oh perfect! But then she thought, have him fired. As far as I am concerned, he is guilty! As the female host spoke to Amarantha, she simply snapped. “You want proof?!” She hissed and all at once she twisted the figure of Kurozawa’s female form around so that he was pinned to the stage, chest revealed to all and not the other way around. Staring smugly, she looked at the mouth, or Maw which covered the chest of this pink head disguise. Multiple mouths, and what appeared to be teeth. Smiling inhumanly at the pure terror in the eyes of Kurozawa’s which were the same eye colour and shape of James, she spoke mercilessly. “I have a theory. How much pain would you be able to handle before you slip to your original form, Kurozawa, or would you prefer James? I have a good imagination, and torturing you would be my pleasure.” She said, grabbing the knife she left on the stage before hovering it over the female face of Kurozawa. Gleaming cruelly, she then whispered demoniacally. “You have to the count of five. And once I hit five, you are going to die, painfully. All I want is a confession.” As soon as she said the word confession, her tone deepened almost demonic. Not the same tones which is commonly heard by woman. Two toned, English still but completely satanic. One voice deeper yet merging with her original silk voice. She wasn’t playing now. She had even preformed a Genjutsu effortlessly to make herself true. She meant it now and began counting… Chaos Second Stage ‘Rage of Chaos’ [50] [1|10] Rank: ‘B’ Skill: Taijutsu Effect: The second stage of chaos allows the user to unlock fifty percent of there max strength, there endurance and durability remains the same as stated as above. There speed, however remains the same and unlike the first stage they no longer suffer any negatives to there movement speed. Once activated the user is now capable of seeing ones aura as it emanates from there body. This also allows the user to negated pain for a short period of time. Special: You receive no negatives to movement. Though a Kamyuja member is not capable of using chakra gates, they can use there chaos as as substitute in order to go into a chakra gate related fighting style. This eye is capable of mimicking the third and fourth gate. Please note you don't gain the benefits of those chakra gates. Drawback: ---- Description: Picture When activated the user’s eyes burst in a brillient ember color as a flame like cover overcomes the eye. This shows as if potential explodes out a new life begins to take over the eyes. Like previously stated before the user is capable of seeing in black n’ white as if they were colored blind, this doesn’t hinder there ability to fight in fact it increase there ability due to the fact they are able to see the aura of chakra emanating from a person’s body. Once this stage of chaos is activated the user is able to demonstrate feats of incredible strength, making them unstoppable to some. This is possible due to the fact it allows the Kamyuja member to tap into only fifty percent of there true strength. Though this allows the user to become incredible strong there time limit is shortly reduced, also unlike before the users speed remains the same as they are no longer sluggish and no longer suffering a negative to there movement speed. When activated the nociceptor that allows a person to feel pain is shut down for a short duration of time. While the nocieptor may be shut down allowing no pain to precede forth to the brain so the brain can register to causing neuropathic pain. While the pain may not be able to transmit to the brain at the time, it is forced to be backed up until the nocieptor is open again. This can be dangerous due to the fact too much pain may not only cause physical pain but psychogenic pain that may kill him if too much damage is taken. That is why the body reacts by letting the pituitary gland release endorphins at a remarkable rate to reduce the pain consumption by twenty percent only allowing the user to feel only eighty percent of the pain that is dealt to them. Limit: Must have the Kamyuja Bloodlimit, This ability only for ten turns before automatically shutting off. After five turns after Chaos has been shut off the user is capable of activating it once again. Frightful Presence [10] Rank: "C" Skill: GenJutsu Effect: With this Jutsu the user can create a fearsome manifestation that mimics the Frightful Presence performed by Beasts. Special: No Handseals, however the time it takes to perform this technique is as long as performing a Jutsu with handseals. Drawback: --- Description: A Fear, Mind-Affecting Technique. Affects anyone who sees the user. The user is able to perform this technique on themselves. The duration of this technique is instantaneous. This technique may be negated. This Jutsu makes the user's very presence unsettling to foes. Opponents within 15 meters of the user who can see the user must make a save frightened for 3d6 rounds. This ability affects only opponents who are 1 class level lower than the user. Limit: Must know the Glamour Perception. Attire: Knife x 4 TEMPLATE NOT MINE