Shitakuma Dojo [Open Goutetsu Dojo/Residence]

[The Blind Beast]

Shitakuma Dojo & Residence 

The Residence 

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Entry 

Under Construction

Common Room 

Under Construction

Dining Room 

Under Construction

Kitchen 

Under Construction

Dormitories  

Under Construction

The Dojo 

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Training Hall [Interior] 

The interior of the dojo is constructed in such a way that it was originally full of traditional natural lighting and positive energy as the screen doors and walls that connect each wooden pillar on the exterior. It has a simple wooden floor that has matting placed down all across to soften falls; which happen quite often in a martial arts dojo. Seeing as the Dojo has been left abandon ever since the death of the master, it has fallen into a state of disrepair, having appeared with nothing but the three mantra scrolls at the front where a shrine to the former master, Goki resides. The scrolls read Honor [to the right], Perseverance [to the left], and just above the shrine resides the center scroll, which reads enlightenment of body, spirit, and mind. There are also weapon racks lined with wooden weapons designed solely for training. Sets of boxing gloves, headgear, punching mitts, and assorted other training gear can be found at the back of the dojo in a storage closet that houses such things. This place, though decrepit and in need of repair will meet its purpose.

The Courtyard [Front of Dojo (to the left of Residence)] 

The front courtyard of the Dojo is completely open, only having a stone monolith in the middle and multiple training instruments out front which are used solely for students who no longer occupy the dojo. It is simple, and will not shock anyone who has not seen an old abandon dojo before. It has some exterior damage, mostly in the living quarters [to the right of the dojo, connected]. It is a simple place to practice and surely will give much more space to practice more dangerous techniques. It was facing towards a simple dirt path, which leads towards the lower districts of Iwagakure, as it is a mountain path down towards the village, and the dojo itself resides further away from the village itself and actually residing at the base of the mountain that the village resides upon. The courtyard is for training just as the inner dojo is, prepare for some hard physical training out here. There are four sets of wooden posts that stand about a foot out of the ground, used specifically for training balance and discipline. The wooden dummies and striking posts which are designed for training strikes are also present in this yard. The dojo is mostly hidden by the rocks, and strong rooted oaks that protect the two mountainous paths that allow travel to the dojo. A well can also be found at the southwest most corner of the courtyard.

Tranquil Garden and Training Pavilion [Behind Dojo] 

Behind the dojo is a pavilion, which has been specifically designed to be incorporated with the calming garden and the three mountain streams that flow through said garden before becoming focused at a gentle point and continue down the mountain. It has many flat platforms in the middle of the huge pond right outside the pavilion which are designed for personal form training under the tranquil waters of the stream. There is also a point to the very north side of the garden right before Victory Road where the three streams waterfall into a pool, the first, named “Jumizu” [to the right] rolling down a complicated path, filled with rocks so that one can meditate within the gentle waters of the stream. The second, named Aizutaki[to the left] having a slippery slope, designed to train balance upon the smooth rocks as one trains the forms of the Hadoken and other martial forms requiring balance. The third and final fall, Ki, Which drops straight down, leaving a torrent of water to train under, with a water pool waist deep; which flows all through the garden giving the many plants life before moving on down the mountain towards Iwagakure. This pavilion and garden appear to be the perfect place to practice the flow of Ki, and understand Hado.

Rocky Path [Victory Road] 

The mountainous path, otherwise known by the students who train at the dojo as victory road, is a path that is a rite of passage for the select few able to practice the hidden 8 gates, and even the dangerous art of Ansatsuken and Satsui no hado (killing intent). It is a rigorous journey, taking a total of two days to complete, as it goes all the way up (and at times through) the mountains for which Iwagakure is built upon. Its end destination is the Cave of Origin, where it is believed that the first monk who was able to unlock all eight of the divine gates was able to do so by meditating for over 100 years. It is also said that the same monk’s brother was able to do the same through pure hatred, forming the Ansatsuken martial art and challenging his brother to a fight to the death. The fight resulted in the hollowing out of the cave itself (which will be further explained below: p). The rocky path is designed to challenge the students traveling, giving crannies and places to camp, but also keeping the students on their toes, for lack of alertness could result in death, or serious injury. This is a test of ability, physique, and readiness to accept the divine gates. ;

Mountain Stream Cave [Cave of Origins] 



The Cave of Origin is a large cavern near the top of the mountain for which Iwagakure resides upon. It is seemingly endless, and is occupied by three streams that flow all the way through the mountain. It is occupied by a flat set of stone columns and paths that lead to a center stone platform 200 meters in diameter; which houses the cool spring pool that exists at the center sizing at about 20X20 Meters. From this spring, it is believed that the Monk Shunwai was able to achieve enlightenment as well as one of the first recorded masteries of the Divine eight gates. This cave was the site of the battle between himself and his brother, Shushen. It is also believed to be the founding site of Goutetsu and more notably the Ansatsuken style. The cave holds a strong feeling of energy, and is said to enhance one’s breathing and Ki while training there. It is where masters for generations have trained their students in the way of the eight gates and has been allegedly used by some to train in the dark arts of Satsui no Hado; which is considered a dark and dehumanizing method of martial arts. It is here that the students of Goutetsu, and of the gates, must face themselves many times, overcoming each aspect of themselves that blocks their inner Ki flow. This cave has sometimes resulted in the loss of sanity of weak students and even resulted in the deaths of students and masters due to the overwhelming conflict of positive and negative energy flow that still lingers from the battle of the brothers thousands of years prior. It is here where students decide upon their evil killing intent, or their intent to protect others, controlling their killing intent to utilize its potential for self-defense and finding inner peace.

Components:

SPOILER: Click to show

Training Area, Combat
Rank: "S"
Type: Main, Room, 1 Stronghold Space, Training Room
Effect: A room to train in the art of Combat.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: This open area allows guards and soldiers to train in the art of war. It has a rack of wooden weapons and padded armor, archery targets, and practice dummies. Training in these areas grant the user a Circumstance Bonus +1 additional TP per post. Up to eight people can train in such a place at once. If you need a greater capacity, you can purchase this component multiple times.
Limit: Must be created by a Construction Crafter.
Cost: 100,000 Ryo

Bedrooms, Luxury
Rank: "S"
Type: Main, Room, 2 Stronghold Space, Room
Effect: Two connecting rooms with luxury accessories.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: This area contains two smaller bedrooms with a connecting door. No expenses were spared in building or furnishing this space. Each room features a marble topped bureau and a gorgeous wardrobe. The four-poster bed is made of the finest wood hung with the wispiest of linens, and the mattress and the blankets are stuffed with feathers. The sheets are silk. A stuffed chair sits in one corner. In another, a finely polished and fully stocked writing desk waits to be used. The walls are adorned with fine art, often of people in positions of repose. Sometimes they feature dreamy scenes filled with pleasant nymphs or other fantastic or heavenly scenes. This component includes a privy, though it need not be attached or adjacent to the bedroom component itself. The luxuriousness of the room requires a single valet, who can be called with any of the bells positioned around the rooms.
Limit: Must be created by a Construction Crafter.
Cost: 100,000 Ryo

[The Blind Beast]

0/10

Indomitable Fortitude
Rank: "C" (Special, See Description)
Skill: Supplementary
Effect: User has gained mastery over their own fortitude power.
Special: ---
Drawback: May learn at a maximum of 6 times.
Description: Each time learned the user gains 1 extra point to their Fortitude. When the user learns this technique the 1st 2 times they train as a regular "C" Rank Jutsu. When the user learns this technique the 2nd 2 times they train it as a "C" Rank Jutsu +10 Training Points. When the user learns this technique the 3rd 2 times they train it as a "C" Rank Jutsu +20 Training Points. This technique stacks with other Fortitude bonuses.
Limit: Universal TaiJutsu Technique.

Shenjie figured that the best way to prepare his body for the usage of the gates was to physically build his body up from the ground up. In the same sense, Shenjie also felt that he could increase his body's resistance to poisons as well; which would be an excellent way to further prove his physical youth. He continued to push his body up in a set of push-ups as he built up muscle to prepare his body for the possible dangers that he might encounter. Shenjie continued to build up his body as he finished a set of about 100 push-ups easily as he exhaled the final count as he continued to build up his resistance to damage, poison and his general fortitude. "Aoi, bring over the stomach weights please." The Assistant sensei requested as he got down on the ground as if he was going to do a set of crunches. "Aoi, you know what to do," Shenjie said as he figured that the student knew what to do with the exercise ball that was designed to be dropped on one's stomach to further build muscles, and build up his endurance to physical punishment.

"Do it." Shenjie said with a nod as he closed his eyes and steadied his breathing as the heavy ball was dropped on his stomach as he began to preform crunches at the same time. It was a difficult exercise, but it was much easier for the youthful Shenjie who had been building his body since he was just a little boy with his teacher Goki. He felt his metabolism kick in as he began to focus in on the singular sound of his own sensory breathing. It was a calm that allowed him to focus through the pain as he made his crunches precises. Exhaling calmly as he felt the pain surging through his body, Shenjie unbreakable focus kept his going as he continued to progress through the exercise. Shenjie's body was in it self in tip top shape; however he probably needed to do more than raise his physical constitution, but also work on his ability to maintain a gate fore a longer period of time, or even begin working to build up resistances to poisons. Shenjie nodded at this fact as the ball smashed into his stomach once again. Quckly exhaling again, Shenjie prepared to unlock on of the divine gates as he pitted his fortitude against that of the gate's drainage.

As Shenjie opened directly into the second divine gate, he immediately felt his body beginning to adjust to the change in physical power. His muscles no longer ached, and he felt as if he could juggle a good deal of weight. In all honesty, Shenjie felt pretty good as she performed the crunches with ease as the gate's influence made doing so possible. Shenjie felt his body holding out as his physical endurance began to prove itself as his body began to speed up quite a bit. He was moving much faster than most human being would think possible. His physical prowess was the only factor pushing him forward as he continued to build up his physical ability to withstand pain and the pure energy of the gates.

As his body continued to course with energy, Shenjie did his best to keep his mind calm and his breathing steady. It was one of the most important factors of both utilizing the gates and in mediation. As Shenjie used this moment to clear his mind, doing so made it much easier to resit the fatigue of the gate he was operating. It was in fact much easier to do so. Shenjie continued to keep his mind clear as he realized that half of the battle was indeed keeping a mental focus to some degree. Half of every race was mental after all. Shenjie continued to focus as his body proved it's physical fortitude.

[The Bearer of Bad News]

+10

[The Blind Beast]

[exiting for now]

[The Blind Beast]

[Enter]

0/60

Will of the Daeva
Rank: "B"
Skill: Supplementary
Effect: User can use Chakras to boost their willpower, giving them newfound strength of purpose.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: User can invest Spring Time of Youth Points into this technique. User gains an insight bonus on Will saves equal to the invested Spring Time of Youth Points. User gains 1 point of Spring Time of Youth Points.
Limit: Must be a practitioner of The Eight Celestial Gates.

Now back home, it was peaceful to see the dojo still as it was settled upon the mountainside. The cool air was relaxing and Shenjie felt a sense of relief as he quickly changed into a fresh Gi. His return home was swiftly met with a sense of relaxation as he figured he should meditate for a bit to recollect himself and to think about all the things that had happened on his long warrior’s Journey. Quietly kneeling before the photo of his master, he began to recall all the things that drove him to become a better warrior, and why he continued to fight. “My iron will, keeps me on the path of righteousness.” Shenjie muttered quietly as he lit one of the sage incents that had been left on alter. It was a calming sensation as he thought about all the things he had learned on his trip. Exhaling softly as he began to focus his Ki (Spring time of youth points) Throughout his body, focusing them towards his mind as he created a space within his own mind that he could reach out to for safety. It wasn’t the most extraneous type of training; however it would allow him to have a much clearer mind and furthermore would allow him to overcome mental barriers such as fear and restraint.

He could hear the water flowing in the garden outside as he sat there before the sage scented smoke. The cool breeze relaxing him as he cleared his blank mental space of any worries or fears. “Safety, serenity, solitude.” He muttered to himself as he was indeed quite alone in his mental fortress, put up by his meditation and the focusing of his Inner chakra around his mind, shielding it from external factors. He felt much more relaxed and secure knowing he could shield his mind, but even at that it was never a certain thing as to how strong he could make such a force. Relaxing with the key to allowing one to openly maneuver the energy of their body to certain portions. His focusing of the aspects of his body had helped augment such a fact as he continued to meditate on his Ki, focusing towards his brain that could so easily be manipulated by the shinobi of this world.

It’s about seeing truth, Shenjie thought to himself as he shut off all of his sensory abilities and just allowed himself to sense through his basic senses as they were. They were still heightened; however not to the degree that they had been with his energy focus. It was enlightening to a degree as he felt his mind finally clearing up on the issues that had bothered him so, and had bothered him to such a great degree. He was innocent of any crime, and furthermore he was free to continue training here in the stone village, to not only better himself, but to better those who wished to learn from him the great art of Goutetsu. This meditation, which augmented his ability to overcome such mental barriers required an intense amount of focus, and even at that he was able to clear his mind and think clearly. This could indeed be an interesting method of cleansing the mind and refreshing the body, Shenjie thought to himself as he brought himself up from a kneeling position to go put on a fresh Gi for his training for that morning. The day was still young after all.

As he finished dressing himself, he couldn’t help but focus his Ki to his mind once more as he knelt down once again to ceremoniously put on his black martial arts belt that represented his mastery status of Goutetsu. He felt his solidarity and the fortitude of his mind increase as he controlled the flow of Ki in his body, protecting his mind from any affect that might wish to attack him. His control over his mind made his much more effective, Shenjie reminded himself as he brought himself back up to a standing posture as he felt much more protected with his more controlled flow of Ki. It was indeed quite a powerful mastery indeed. Shenjie exhaled, relaxing his body as he relaxed his Ki flow, allowing himself to recollect himself as he stood there, raising his hands up to his chest as he exhaled, and pushing them down towards his stomach as he channeled his Ki back to a steady flow as he prepared himself to train at a steady and eased pace.

[The Blind Beast]

??/60

Calming and relaxing as the gentle flow of the water was against Shenjie’s skin as he walked outside into the garden, removed his Gi top and quickly hopped into the cool flowing stream, Shenjie still felt a sense of worry for the upcoming events of the village as he exhaled deeply as he stood waist deep in the pool with the flowing waterfall behind him. Focusing his Ki, quickly configuring it so that he could begin to empower his mind with the sheer power of his will and life energy as he began to preform martial arts forms there in the water. The cool water upon his thighs and hips resisted him as he forced his muscles to contract and maneuver to his well. His mind felt refreshed as the cool spring water as he kept it shielded by a constant flow of chakra, letting the forms, his hand movements and the flow of energy take its course towards protecting his mind from invasion of impure thoughts, and impure chakras that could attempt to cause him harm mentally. This great power over one’s own will was indeed quite the tool for Shenjie, seeing as in the past his weakness had always been his resolve to overcome mental affects. He was only so mentally powerful, Shenjie thought to himself in the blank void that he had created within his own mind as figured it was indeed a compensation for his near limitless physical strength.

“A good warrior is of sound mind, and strong body.” He muttered the simple mantra as he lowered himself into a crouching stance, letting the form take him underwater as his planted feet were all that allowed him to see around him. Quickly brining himself back up, he felt his hand coming back in the same way that one would begin forming a Hadoken Ki sphere. Shenjie let his energy pool up there in his stomach by his hands as he felt the surging energy attempting to flow to his hands in the same way it would as if here were preforming the Ki attack; however Shenjie quickly reverted the rotation, focusing the intensely channeled Ki towards his mind just as he had been focusing earlier. The powerful surge of Ki suddenly felt much more calming as his mind was shielded from most mind altering affects and his own personal fears and terrors that might cause him to flee. To overcome one’s own fears was a trait that could only be shared by some of the greatest masters of Goutetsu and the Gates themselves. Ansatsuken users could also attest to such great strengths; however it has been known to have passed them by due to their lack of pleasure in passive trainings such as this.

Shenjie felt his mind clearly as he continued the forms, channeling the Ki flow through his body as to not stop circulation, but to all promote the protection of his mental state. “Calm waters bring the storm, for I shall weather it gladly with sound mind. Never fear that for which is only material.” Shenjie muttered again as he proceeded to continue his martial arts forms there in the stream, the cool smooth rocks caressing his hardended feet as he continued to move around on his own, probably looking like a doofus to any offhanded by passer. Shenjie didn’t care what they though, and even more so, he couldn’t even sense that they were there. All that existed was himself, and what he needed to do, which was martial arts forms. His environment slowly melted away, leaving nothing but him in a blank space within the confines of his own mind, practicing the techniques he had learned from his teacher Goki. Shenjie was still aware of all that was around him; however he was still so intensely focused that he didn’t care to pay any attention, meditating through his movements as he continued to move from form to form.

Shenjie’s focus was absolute, and from that, he found that he could move, and even do battle in such a state of intense focus. If he were this focused with such willpower and drive, he wouldn’t have to worry about such attacks as genjutsu, or even such things that might attempt to attack his mind. He was indeed at peace as he practiced forms in his own blank space. It was his canvas to paint with his martial arts, perfecting the forms that had been passed down from master to student for generations, proving that the most beautiful thing he could ever hope to produce was a student who adopted an art form more perfect than his own. He even felt the desire to create arts, now as his will became resolute. He was destined to find his own place of reconcile and purity among this world of such devastation and sadness. A philosophy to protect others, and to make a better world began to set itself upon Shenjie as he meditated and practiced, working to further his abilities in the flow of energy.

[The Blind Beast]

??/60

The cool breeze was still calming as Shenjie pulled himself out of the water, slowly climbing up onto one of the smooth stone platforms that resided in the stream designed for meditation and calming of the spirit. Shenjie found himself crossing his legs in his wet Gi pants as he found his mental center, allowing his breathing to recuperate from the long session of training in the stream, for which had exhausted him quite a bit. His mind was as clear as the gentle water as he listened to the flowing of the stream, letting the cool water continue its path, letting it carry his worries away as he closed his eyes and exhaled again, letting himself relax as he mentally began to focus again towards protecting his mind, and furthermore clearing it of any ill thoughts that might overtake his own will. The gentle way was enough to help provoke his inner sense of duty as he began to think about all of the things that had troubled him in the past few months. The removal and disappearance of two kage, one of which was an even vampire lord that he couldn’t do anything against. Shenjie felt a twinge of shame strike his well-being as he couldn’t help but struggle with the idea of him not being able to do anything.

“What could I have done?” He asked himself as his third chakra was being blocked by his harmed pride, and his inner shame. Shenjie began to visualize all of the horrors that Godric had unleashed, he began to recall the fight with the young fellow who had been attempting to hunt him on Godric’s agenda, the sound of the fellow’s skull crushing from his frontal lotus brought him nothing but shame as he was unable to do anything but continue running away and fighting. What a sad existence that was, Shenjie thought to himself as he began to focus his Ki to his mind, attempting to cleanse himself of such negative thoughts a she yet to realize that there was nothing he could do, and he was indeed doing the best he could to survive. Sometime there isn’t much one can do, and doing what you can in all you can give. Alas Shenjie had a hard time grasping such a concept, and even though he knew that the death, riots, and mind control were not his fault, and never resulted in any failure of his doing. He had been under the impression that Godric was a decent…being, and that his love for the village out outweigh personal gain.

Shenjie’s Ki began to burst as he pumped a good deal into his mind, shielding him from any such doubts as he mentally was allowing his mental focus and Ki focusing mastery to augment his mental will. He felt as if he had the determination to overcome such a failure, as it wasn’t even his fault. Even if it had been, there was nothing he could do now except approach the future with hot-blooded determination to overcome any obstacle, be it mental or physical. Shenjie knew that with precise Ki control, and the ability to further pursuit Taijutsu, he could overcome every challenge that was presented before him. He was determined to better himself as the will of his inner self, the chakras allowing, gave him the strength to overcome himself, augmenting his will to a marginal degree. It was as his Ki gave him the strength to overcome anything, which would range from fear to genjutsu. Shenjie felt prepared for anything in that moment as he decided to make another trip to the cave of origins to further find his inner self along the way. It was there that he had discovered the gates, and it would be there that he would further unlock his abilities as a Taijutsu master.

To prove himself of an Iron Will, he would pit himself up against the odd effect of the cavern, and even might discover more about himself like he had last time. Without his teacher, Shenjie felt an absence in his heart, and even a twinge of fear telling him that it was a folly to make such a move. Shenjie felt himself being urged to give up when he began to feel his Ki flowing towards his mind, bringing on the steady calm as his will overcame the fear of failure, death, and even the possible fears he might have to face there in the cave. It was a terrifying prospect; however his ability to control his Ki and focus on keeping himself calm, collected, and clear was enough to give him the drive to continue forward as he quickly ran into the dojo, grabbing his gear before donning his Gi top and belt again and carrying a small rucksack of food and a waterskin that would accompany him on his journey up the mountain. His calm continued to shroud him from evil influences as he relaxed and prepared himself for the long hike up the mountain.

[The Blind Beast]

??/60

The beginning of the journey was simple enough as he walked along the small hiking path that carried its way through a dense forest before officially reaching the mountain path that would take Shenjie up the mountain. He remembered his first time going up this train with his teacher, the terrible fear he had of what was happening, and his lack of understanding of his surroundings as he was born blind and had yet to fully unlock his potential as a sensory type ninja. His Ki continued to flow towards his mind, shielding him as he did his best to cover up how scared he really was to be returning for the first time in almost a year. It was scary to think about the things that awaited him, and even worst how horrid it would be to face such things without his teacher there beside him. It scared him quite a bit, and he had to continuously keep his Ki flowing minutely to his mind as a ward to such thought detouring him as he continued his way up the mountain barefooted and donning only his simple Gi and martial artist belt. He also had some food with him, so it kept him decently feed, and overall kept his mind at ease to some degree; however bread and cheese was not the best thing to eat for five days straight.

Shenjie thought about this as the round trip took at least four days and he wanted to spend at least one day in the cavern. His Ki around his mind continued its flow as he channeled his Ki in such a way that it would allow him to have an unwavering resolve that would further prove his ability to overcome such trials that the trail itself might present to anyone unlucky enough to come up that way or attempting to prove their fortitude against victory road. The forest was still dense, a Shenjie’s mind kept wanting to resist him, urging him to return, telling him he wasn’t ready for such a venture. “You’re not ready…” The shadowy echo of the inner beast that was his darker side began to edge its way into his mind once more as he stopped under one of the shady palms. The trail and the cave shared a special connection, bringing anyone who dare challenge it to their brink as Shenjie didn’t even acknowledge the voice this time, letting his blind eyes close as he focused in on channeling his Ki to his mind in order to suppress the urging darker nature that was always at war within everyone.

Only someone with a resolute will can traverse this path and return with their sanity, the words of sensei continued to ring within his mind as he couldn’t help but realize that he was in serious danger if he wasn’t ready for such a challenge. “You’re not…” The voice that continued to attempt to manipulate his mind through its influence that surely would increase as he got closer and closer to the cave. Shenjie took that moment to focus his Ki, meditating there under the pine, the warm dirt collecting on his once pure white Gi that appeared more off-white now that it had been worn for more than a day. Shenjie’s resolute will was only possible through the addition of his ability to manipulate his chakras and the Ki that flowed freely through them. It was hard to balance all the chakras; however it wasn’t impossible. Shenjie had a strange feeling that he would have to master more control over each chakra as approached the cave, the closer he got, the more balanced he would have to be mentally in order to overcome the challenges. This time he was alone too; which could prove fatal if he didn’t remain wary of what could possibly happen to him.

Taking a deep breath as he quickly channeled a strong amount of Ki through his mind, washing it of any negative thoughts, including those of himself, as he quickly felt a sense of calm wash over him just as it had back at the stream. His meditation and training in the chakra gates had paid off immensely, and it was evident in his ability to ward off the effects of the cave that were now surely affecting him dearly. Most would have had trouble on this first day; however it was bearable. Shenjie found it much more intensified since the last time he had traveled up the mountain; which was strange since each person, no matter how many were there, were effected equally, meaning that his lesser will before was enough to survive this point where as it would have brought him ruin now. Something must have been brewing within the cave that was amplifying the effects such a distance from the cavern. Shenjie continued to channel his Ki as it cleansed his mind, and allowed him to again think soundly without the voice of his darker fears and thoughts troubling him from this point as it was. Shenjie then, feeling exhausted from all the Ki he had burnt and the training of the previous day, simply plopped down on the ground and spent the first night sleeping under the stars.

[The Blind Beast]

??/60

Shenjie quickly awoke early the next morning to what sounded like crazed laughter. It was indeed quite strange, even more so due to the fact that he couldn’t pin point the source like he normally could as if it was all in his head. “You are mine now child, join me in my quest for violence.” Shenjie heard a voice echo in his head as he was suddenly washed over with an extreme headache as the pain debilitated him enough to throw him down to the ground. Shenjie felt his body failing to move as whatever was infecting his mind as he collapsed to his knees, resisting the urge to shout in pain as he was being mentally tortured. “Ahhh…” Shenjie moaned as he bit his lip, quickly channeling Ki to his mind as he attempted to protect himself from this invasion of whatever was attempting to harm him mentally. His Ki was now locked in a battle of wills as something attempted to extend its will onto him without him knowing what it wanted exactly. His head was throbbing as he continued to channel a good deal of Ki to his mind, not relenting on the battle for his mental security as he figured this was going to be a majority of his trip as he still had one more day before he officially reached the cave itself.

The laughing slowly subsided, and Shenjie felt his body regaining control as he was able to bring himself back to a standing position. His ability to focus Ki in such a way that it acted as a shield and mental protector was proving to be more vital than he had at first thought when he had embarked on the trip. Exhaling calmly as he allowed his Ki to relocate itself as he felt a bit fatigued from using the technique. Feeling the need to take a moment to breath before continuing on, Shenjie allowed himself to meditate on what had just happened. His will had been infringed upon, and his ability to augment his very well with his life force was indeed proving to be useful to combat such an attack by the illusionary nature that challenged those that traversed the path to the cave. His will would have to be solid, and he would have to continue practicing the method of protecting himself as more challenges would surely arise. Shenjie felt his mental state recollect finally as he brought himself back up to a standing posture, picking up the few things he had left before making his way forward one again to continue on the trail.

Slowly but surely the forest faded into a mountainous path, the smell of rain plagued his nose as he prepared himself for the obvious challenge that was presented before him. It was going to be a long journey up the mountain. Shenjie focused his Ki towards his mind once again as suddenly he felt something coming over him, the sudden urge to drop down to his knees just as he had earlier that day. It was painful to resist such an effect; however Shenjie slowly began to cannel his Ki once again as his mind began to relax, letting the flow of his energy reregulate itself as he had to relax his body and his mind in order to allow himself the freedom to further protect his will against that of external forces, whatever they may be. He didn’t know what was causing such a disturbance in his energy; however he figured if he continued to maintain a steady channeling Ki flow, then it would be perfectly possible for him to make it to the cave without anything too detrimental happening to him.

Shenjie was about to small crevice in the cliff face where he had camped with Goki the first time they had traveled up the mountain. Slowly situating himself inside, He quickly began to meditate, focusing on the protecting of his very will and mental stability as he could feel the power of the cave furthering itself around him as the vibes continued to grow more and more intense as he traveled closer. “What could be causing such an energy?” Shenjie asked himself as he continued to channel his Ki, focusing on protecting himself until it was time to sleep; which was quite the task indeed, as it was an almost constant, the attacks upon his will as he remained resolute through the manipulation of his Ki and the chakras that were continuously working in his body to maintain balance in his life. It was indeed a constant battle against him and the cave’s will to overpower him. In all actuality it was him overpowering himself, as the cavern brought out the worst in people, forcing one to face off against themselves, making it more and more difficult for someone to face their fears, and even face trials that were indeed quite difficult as they were sculpted to the individual. Shenjie eventually felt himself tiring, slowly drifting off to sleep as he prepared to officially arrive at the cave the next day.

[The Blind Beast]

??/60

Shenjie was beginning to feel his mental power beginning to drain as he awoke to more mentally challenging pains that sent him to the ground immediately as he fought within his own mind to regain control. Shenjie quickly began to circulate Ki; however it was a struggle to even quell the pain that was now debilitating him as his will wavered slightly, constantly having the throbbing pain in his head as he succeeded in willing himself to a standing posture; however the pain kept him from going very far. What was the source of this power? Shenjie thought to himself as he tried to recollect himself, circulating Ki around his brain in an attempt to shield it from this barrage of what appeared to be mentally based attacks of some sort, challenging his will to a match of strength. It was painful and a constant struggle, but eventually he was able to invest enough Ki into clearing his head that he was able to bring himself to a decent standing position. It was hard, and still a struggle; however it became possible with his Ki enhanced will and his own drive to boot. It was interesting, how Shenjie was able to continue on at this rate as he struggled to control his inner mind.

Quickly sitting down cross-legged in the small space as he began to mentally focus on freeing his mind of this burden that had attempted to invade his mind with some sort of image of pure red energy; which shenjie only perceived to be a plain aura that he couldn’t discern (Since he can’t discern colors XD) he began to intensely focus his Ki as his body and mind were under the impression that he would have to ward himself with his own Ki powered will power that would surely require his entire mental focus and time devoted to controlling as much as he would have to make his Ki flow smoothly while still keeping his mind protected as he brought himself back up to a standing position. He was about to face something that was beyond his ability to comprehend, as it was more powerful than he had imagined it would be from what he was feeling now. His energy was being disrupted by whatever was inside the cavern, and it was clear that that was where it was coming from as he approached the cave feeling the energy that was emitting from the cave that was surely engulfed in some sort of power.

“What could be causing this?” Shenjie asked quietly as he continued to focus his Ki around his mind as a simple shield, improving his will to the point that he would be able to resist most mind affects that would normally debilitate a man his size easily. Shenjie felt his will to overcome such challenges becoming much more solid as his will increased with how much Ki he invested in protecting himself as he continued to exhale and breath calmly, letting his breathing control how much he invested towards protecting itself as Shenjie did his best to maintain a steady focus as he approached, not trying to do anything too quickly. He figured he would have to mentally prepare for what he was about to face, and furthermore, he understood the challenges that would surely lay ahead. Shenjie wanted to make sure he could protect himself to the max, as he focused and channeled his Ki, making it easier to approach the cave as me took his first few steps forward into the darkness, feeling the hate wash over him as he proceeded forward un afraid.

Shenjie entered the cave, and quickly felt how his chakra’s channeled bolstering to his very will had become quite important. It felt as if he wanted to lie down; which was probably due to the heavy aura that seemed to exist within the cave. Shenjie didn’t really like this feeling of weight upon his chest as he attempted to control his mental state with something of a meditation that existed while moving. By Constantly meditation, Shenjie was able to keep his mind clear and focused as he continued forward to the main chamber; which was occupied by a pool in the center with two platforms, surrounded by a multitude of stone pillars. It was a calming place that had been tainted by some sort of evil; which Shenjie was beginning to make out as he approached, keeping his chakra flowing as he realized there were two humanoid forms there at the center of the Dias. “You have come my son, and it is now time for you to unlock your true potential.” He heard a strongly familiar voice as a much younger but more so clearly recognizable voice answered, “Join us Shenjie, Master would have wanted it this way.” Shenjie heard his old sparring partner Rei comment as Shenjie’s will was the only thing from keeping his from fleeing in pure and utter terror.

[The Bearer of Bad News]

+60

[The Blind Beast]

0/10

Stunning Fist
Rank: "C"
Skill: TaiJutsu
Effect: The user knows where to strike to temporarily stun the opponent.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: The learns the Stunning Fist technique. The user is able to perform this technique a number of times per day equal to 5 per Class Level. The user can use the Stunning Fist ability as part of any melee weapon attack made using a Weapon enhanced by their Gentle Touch ability. The user can restore a single use of Stunning Fist by taking 3 points of Spring Time of Youth Points burn without sacrificing movements. The user can restore a use of Stunning Fist in this way 1 additional time per Class Level. Stunning Fist forces the opponent damaged by the unarmed attack to make a Fortitude Save (10 + 2 per Class Level + Impeccable Will), in addition to dealing damage normally. The opponent who fails this Save is stunned for 1 round (until just before their next turn). A stunned character drops everything held and cannot take actions. Oozes, Constructs, Plants, and Undead are immune to this Strike.
Limit: Must be a practitioner of The Eight Celestial Gates.

“Rei, Sensei…but you’re dead?” Shenjie said in disbelief as he felt the sudden need to dodge overcome him as he quickly back flipped as a leaf whirlwind brushed past his body. Shenjie was confused, and honestly didn’t know what to do as his emotions ran wild. His teacher…who had been dead, and his best friend and fellow student were now not only attacking him, but attacking him as if they wanted to end his existence. “Satsui no hado?” He asked himself quietly as he could feel the hatred emitting from his friend as he tried to think of a way to stun him without killing him. Shenjie could remember growing up with the kid, and that was when he remembered the stunning fist, the way one channeled their chakra through their hands in such a way that it would disrupt the flow of one’s chakras, stunning them for moment as he focused his chakra into his hands, focusing on the flow of it as he prepared for combat, even though he was reluctant to take the first step. In Goutetsu, it is taught that here is no first strike. One well-placed blow could kill a person easily if they were not careful. Shenjie focused almost solely on restraining himself as he didn’t really want to harm his teacher and his friend.

“What are you doing here…how did you survive the fire?” Shenjie asked his now hatred fueled teacher and rival. His fists focused on the stunning strike as he felt his friend enclosing the distance once again as he spoke quickly throwing a pair of kicks towards his head. Shenjie raised his forearm to a vertical block as he blocked the first blow with his arm and used his hand to swat away the second kick. Shenjie was waiting, biding his time before he threw the strike as he needed it to land on a point where he could disrupt the chakra flow. It was when he blocked a few boxing punches that he decided to make his move quickly throwing his body forward into a Yamasaki, his fist charged with chakra as he aimed for the third chakra within the stomach of his friend making a strange counter punch that would surely knock the breath out of him. It was when his first connected that was the difficult part, as he had to disrupt the chakra flow within Rei in order to completely stun him, and even at that his body might be so well trained that it might be able to resist his strike. All the same, Shenjie wanted to do his best to stop his friend non-lethally as best as possible as he wanted to make it so that his friend and teacher would explain exactly what it was they were doing up here, pretending to be dead.

As his fist connected, Shenjie shot his chakra in a strong burst into the sternum of his target as he did his best to stun his chakra flow enough to cause him to crumple down so that he could knock him out with a swift strike; however something felt off as he heard the breath being knocked out of his opponent as the strike connected. It was a satisfying feeling, and his burst of energy was indeed precise enough that it should bring down even a man of his caliber down for at least a short moment. His fist could feel the transfer of energy as his chakra invaded like a disease of sorts, throwing off the balance of Rei’s chakra network, stopping him in his tracks for maybe just an instant. An Instant would be enough, Shenjie thought to himself as he prepared his next move as his fist had obviously done enough to cause his opponent disdain as he prepared to grapple and throw him. This was when he realized something that proved to be quite the vital mistake as suddenly Rei yelled something like “Tsukamaki Senpuukyuaku” as he felt something hard collide with his head as a whirlwind kick nailed him in the head, sending Shenjie to the floor.

What??? Was all Shenjie could think as he felt his body getting knocked into the center pool. The splash could be heard resonating through the pool as he slowly sank towards the bottom a small trail of blood leaking from his mouth where it had been cut by his teeth from the impact. He felt himself being consumed by the darkness of the pool as he sank deeper and deeper towards the bottom. What did I do wrong with that attack? Shenjie thought to himself as he replayed it in his head, understanding that he had made contact well enough and the burst of chakra had done its part too. Was Rei too strong for him now to perform such a meager technique, or was it something more than that. Shenjie didn’t have time to dwell over this fact as he focused his chakra to his hand once again, just to get the feel for it as he prepared to swim back up to the top, his breath wavering for a bit; however his fortitude helped him uphold his breath. Intent, I have to mean the attack…Shenjie thought to himself realizing that he would have to be determined to strike if there was ever going to be successful results.

[The Bearer of Bad News]

+10

[The Blind Beast]

0/10

Shoryuken (Rising Dragon Fist)
Rank: "C"
Skill: TaiJutsu
Effect: A spiraling punch, moving in an upward arc. The Shoryuken (Rising Dragon Fist) is invincible while the fist is rising, but completely vulnerable to counterattack when descending.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Picture The move is a jumping uppercut in which the user spins and rockets upwards with some horizontal movement as well, knocking the opponent to the ground with much damage. This technique is considered to be an anti-aerial technique. By this point when a user first learns this technique the strength is far more dramatic than a normal uppercut punch as it feels as if the user received a "B" rank attack of damage.
Limit: Must learn from a Master of Goutetsu 轟鉄 (Strong Iron), Must have Mastered Gōken 剛拳 (Strong Fist) - Sei Form

As Shenjie pulled himself form the pool, he could feel the pure hatred once again as he sensed his opponent standing a good deal off away from him as he coughed a bit as he recovered from the heavy hit he had took in addition to being thrown into the pool. The horrid laughter that he had heard on his way up the mountain again filled his ears as he found it almost impossible to overcome his pair of opponents. They were not only his friends but his mentor and partner. How could one end the life of someone like that? Shenjie thought to himself as he slowly got back into a fighting stance, wiping the dribble of blood away from his cheek as he held his stance. “What do you want?” he asked bluntly as he could feel the flowing of energy once again, the Satsui no Hado, as he understood what was happening. Someone must have been charging a Hadoken chakra burst; which Shenjie couldn’t take directly from fear of becoming incapacitated. Shenjie felt his heart stop as he heard the burst of Chakra surging towards him. Shenjie had to move quickly if there was going to be any hope of survival. Remembering some of the more lethal Kata he had practiced before his journey, Shenjie did his best to stay calm as he quickly did a jumping flip over the Hadoken blast.

*flashback*

“These old scrolls don’t really make much sense?” Shenjie grumbled as he ran his finger along the parchment so that he could read the faded ink. It showed a simple hand drawn picture of a Gi wearing fellow doing a few moves before launching himself into what looked like a huge jumping uppercut. It was a strange, and Shenjie didn’t quite know what to do about it as he exhaled calmly before preparing to attempt to follow the Kata form to the best of his ability. First he started from the fighting stance, doing a quick circular parrying motion with his left hand as he turned his back to throw himself into a leaf whirlwind kick, throwing a high kick then a low kick before landing on the ground and attempting to use his grounded position to throw himself upward into an uppercut. The resulting technique looked something similar to someone jumping for joy with a fist pump as he jumped into the air, making a fool out of himself. “I suppose I didn’t do it right.” He said as he found himself crashing back down to the ground, right onto his bum. Rubbing the back of his neck, Shenjie thought for a moment as to what he was lacking as he pushed himself back up and consulted the other forms on the page in order to find possible clues that might link to this technique in any way.

The second drawing had a guy doing some weird looking Tai Chi movements; which would help him focus his Ki within his body. Perhaps Ki had something to do with this strange attack? Shenjie thought to himself as he crouched down into the fighting stance, moving his hands in a circular motion around his stomach as he did his best to focus his Ki within his body. The flowing of Ki had become more and more standard with Shenjie as he had spent lots of time practicing channeling and flowing his energy within and throughout his body. The gentle flow was calming in some senses, and made it easier to focus as he channeled his Ki into his fist and around his feet so that he could get lift off to throw this massive punch. Leaning down as he prepared to throw the punch once again, this time without the forms as he just practiced the strike itself. Ducking low as he extended his fist as if he were going to throw a really exaggerated uppercut. The resulting strike wasn’t quite what he thought it would be as he jumped up in the air, higher than the first time with the assisted Ki and with a bit of a swirl; however it felt as if it were lacking something. Shenjie didn’t quite understand as to what it was that the technique demanded as he sighed with exhaustion as he landed on the ground again.

Quickly running his finger over the scroll, he simply ready a few other forms before coming across the phrases Shoryuken, and Satsui no Hado. “Killing intent?” Shenjie asked as he didn’t quite understand what made a killing technique so potent in comparison to all the other techniques he knew. His Frontal lotus and reverse lotus techniques could easily kill someone if he wanted to; however he continued to ponder on this thought as he got into a fighting stance again and thought about something he hated, and let it sink in for a moment as he visualized his shadowy target there before him. The idea might not always be that one wanted to kill their opponent, but instead visualizing the strike going through them to add the needed power. Shenjie didn’t want to kill anyone; however if it was to defend himself or his friends he would do whatever it took to the neutralize the threat. Sometimes one had to kill, or to the very least up all their heart and soul into the fight in order to make it worthwhile. With that in mind, Shenjie visualized his target and made himself feel as if his life depended on the strike. Charging his body with chakra once again, Shenjie quickly launched himself into the odd uppercut, slashing the air with pure force as his intent made it possible to perform such a technique.

Landing, Shenjie felt the power in his fist as he thought about how he had just thrown a fairly powerful strike. “I can’t ever use this on a person unless it’s a last resort.” Shenjie said to himself as his Ki resettled in his body, giving him a moment of reprieve as he meditated on what the technique had taught him. Shenjie now understood that self-restraint might be better than trying to kill one’s opponent, true Goutetsu has no first strike after all…Shenjie thought to himself as he quickly wrote that down on the back of the scroll as he figured he would keep that saying for later.

*returning to the present*

Shenjie felt his body rolling on the ground over the energy sphere as he landed directly under his opponent. This would be the perfect time to end the fight, to save himself and escape, yet something in Shenjie almost hesitated as he focused his Ki into his feet and Hand as he prepared to throw the uppercut, launching himself upward with all his might. Shenjie couldn’t help but think about what this strike would to do Rei as it connected. “Shoryuken!” Shenjie shouted for ascetics as he launched up into the air, nailing Rei’s chin with the lethally thrown strike. It wasn’t quite as deadly as someone who had mastered the technique; however Shenjie had learned that it might be enough to knock Rei out; which would allow him to escape and recollect himself. His strike sent his opponent reeling backwards and into the air quite a bit as he heard him land with a thump. Shenjie landed, feeling satisfied with himself to a minute degree, and ashamed all in the same go. He had caused some possibly lethal damage to another human-being…yet it was needed if he was to have any chance of surviving this encounter with two opponents who were likely stronger than he was. The chuckling stopped only for a moment as suddenly he felt Rei’s hatred once again as he was under siege once more.

[Madame Loki]

-learned-

[The Blind Beast]

-Exiting this thread for now-

[The Blind Beast]

[enter]

0/90
+1 from Training Area
+1 A Class

(4) Gate of Pain - Anahata: The Heart Chakra
Rank: "A"
Skill: TaiJutsu
Effect: Increases the user's speed and power. May cause muscle tissue to tear on use.
Special: ---
Drawback: (Fortitude 20) User could become Fatigued for the rest of the encounter plus 10 minutes.
Description: Picture Located in the center of the chest. Its function is love, its inner state is compassion, love, its color is green. Its stones are: Green/Pink stones—Peridot, Rose Quartz, and Malachite. This Chakra is the Air Chakra; it deals with Love and is blocked by Grief. Balancing this Chakra is important for the circulatory system, heart and thymus. It also affects spiritual love, compassion and universal oneness. This Celestial gate releases the limit of Oxygen going to the lungs, making more oxygen for the user's body to use.
Takes 4 Movements to Activate.
+8 Pain Threshold Bonus to Will.
+6 enchantment bonus to Weapon Damage.
+4 enchantment bonus to Movements.
+12 Temporary Gate Points.
If 4th Gate is opened longer than 2 consecutive rounds, user gains a penalty of -5 Weapon Size in TaiJutsu Damage, and -2 movements for 24 hours once gate closes.

Unless the user wishes otherwise, the technique ends at the end of an Encounter. Each round the technique is maintained, the user suffers 5 points of Gate Point Damage. Mastery: Learning this technique a 2nd time, the user can activate this gate without sacrificing movements for the purpose of using a more powerful gate, without actually performing this Technique or gaining any of the penalties. User cannot otherwise perform the Technique without sacrificing movements. Learning the technique a 3rd time, the user only suffers -1 movements which recovers fully after an Extended rest, and suffers 4 Gate Point Damage.
Limit: Must be a practitioner of The Eight Celestial Gates. Must know (3) Gate of Life - Solar Plexus.

The dojo was quit and dark. The silent footsteps of the karateka stepped silently on the tatami. The solemn nature of his return was expressed on Shenjie’s grim face as he approached the shomen that housed the picture of his sensei and the sage that had been unlit for so long. He felt his heart stutter with a wave of grief as he thought about the man that had raised him, protected him, and brought him into the world of martial arts. He was dead to Shenjie, and he couldn’t take back what had happened. Shenjie sighed as he kneeled down in seiza before the shomen, taking a lighter to light the herbs. The meditative smoke began to fill the air as he reflected on the many griefs of his life. He closed his mind, the blindness that had been his existence since his birth. He could remember simple things, the embrace of his mother, the day he had been picked up by Goki. His breath began to steady as he inhaled the intoxicating scents as memories began to flood his brain.

Images of blood, the sour, iron scent straining his body. The breaking on bone, the sound of sticks clacking on the ground, screaming, and lost tears became clear to him as he meditated. He had been on the receiving end of the blades of killers, and had been the dealer of the fatal blow. He could feel the blood upon his hands, the body falling upon the ground. He could hear the warm liquid seeping into the wood floor. The first time he had used his Ansatsuken to kill, the memory scared him more than any of his physical injuries. He was a killer, and he could never take that back. He felt himself struggling with these pains of his past. He was so young to be so tortured by his current life. He inhaled deeply again, letting the smoke wash over his sins. His inner Ki almost feed off of the sins of his past and that of others. He could feel his heart rate increasing as his grief began to rise. He felt his mental weakness most strongly now as he tried to relax in the same way he had been taught to do so under the tutelage of his sensei. He did his best to relax and breathe, but it was difficult when feeling such a tremendous amount of grief.

Shenjie let his energy flow as he could feel his chakra being block in his heart by the enormous amount of grief he felt. He had abandoned his teacher, and his way of life. He felt his energy beginning to surge as he was getting worked up. If he had been hooked up to a life support machine, it would have noted his increased vitals and the way his body was beginning to boost because of this stress. His skin began to sweat and his body would slowly begin to wake as he fought against the familiar sensation. He needed to master each gate at a time, and this was his first time training without his sensei. This was a delicate time. He needed all the focus he could surmise as time was going on. He felt his heart moving quickly, the source of his energy is moving quickly as the heart was the center of the gate’s source of energy.

[The Blind Beast]

??/90
+1 from Training Area
+1 A Class

(4) Gate of Pain - Anahata: The Heart Chakra
Rank: "A"
Skill: TaiJutsu
Effect: Increases the user's speed and power. May cause muscle tissue to tear on use.
Special: ---
Drawback: (Fortitude 20) User could become Fatigued for the rest of the encounter plus 10 minutes.
Description: Picture Located in the center of the chest. Its function is love, its inner state is compassion, love, its color is green. Its stones are: Green/Pink stones—Peridot, Rose Quartz, and Malachite. This Chakra is the Air Chakra; it deals with Love and is blocked by Grief. Balancing this Chakra is important for the circulatory system, heart and thymus. It also affects spiritual love, compassion and universal oneness. This Celestial gate releases the limit of Oxygen going to the lungs, making more oxygen for the user's body to use.
Takes 4 Movements to Activate.
+8 Pain Threshold Bonus to Will.
+6 enchantment bonus to Weapon Damage.
+4 enchantment bonus to Movements.
+12 Temporary Gate Points.
If 4th Gate is opened longer than 2 consecutive rounds, user gains a penalty of -5 Weapon Size in TaiJutsu Damage, and -2 movements for 24 hours once gate closes.

Shenjie’s world faded away. It was as if someone had painted him into a world of blackness. To an outside observer, they would see an individual going into some serious shock. His body was tough, and so he was surviving, but only just so as his heart was pounding almost out of his chest. Shenjie’s inner mental projection was that of his body. His confusion was lessened by having experienced a similar coma during his first three encounters with the gates. The first time he had seen himself and been struggling with his own survival, but now he was dealing with his grief. It was a different form of punishment for sure. The world began to materialize around him as he could finally see things the way they were, colors being however his mind could process such a thing. It was more so in grey scale. Shenjie could see the images of the things that he regretted. He could see the marauders slaughtering his people in the land of rivers. He could see the blood spilling, smell the scene, until he saw a young child being stripped away from a mother, getting impaled with a spear like weapon. He knew this scene well.

It suddenly shifted to the scene that he had been regretting. The huge Muay Thai fighter that had killed his best friend, and wounded his master to the point of insanity. He was sure that his master had died too, surely…but he hadn’t stayed to find out. Shenjie could see the huge man towering of him and his friend kai. He had made the mistake of fighting in an underground ring. What a mistake it was. He could feel his fear and his heart pulsing even in this self-induced illusion. He couldn’t help but feel a mix of fear and rage coursing through him. He had trained long and hard to best this fighter. He had embraced the killing instinct of the Satsui no Hado. He was a changed person from the young boy who had fled in the face of death. He was truly a different individual as he and the fellow seemed to be alone, the smell of blood constantly present, but the demon within him seemed to still be desiring the life of this young boy. The fighter had to be 7 feet tall dwarfing shenjie by a whole foot. He wasn’t afraid now however. He had trained in the face of danger, with techniques that were designed to destroy the receiver.

He felt his anger rising as he opened his stance to a fighting stance. His desire for a rematch forced the situation as he could see the fellow’s foul smile. It was odd that he could see such a thing, but it was within his mind. Shenjie began throwing an on slaughter of attacks, throwing a few jabs and straight punches to get the feel for his opponent. The large fellow weaved backwards, with a cocky weave as his head seemed to evade every attempt Shenjie made to strike it. This reflection of Shenjie’s grief couldn’t be more accurate. Shenjie threw a few kicks into the mix trying to strike the fellow, but he was elusive as hell. It wasn’t possible, it seemed, for him to even land a blow. His inability to forgive himself was much like this phantom opponent. He threw his attacks with the same degree of hate that he held for the man on the first day. He was becoming frustrated, and even more so when he saw the blood silhouette of what looked like his teacher. His fury began to course through his very being. It was part of him…and he couldn’t accept the hate.

[The Blind Beast]

??/90
+1 from Training Area
+1 A Class

(4) Gate of Pain - Anahata: The Heart Chakra
Rank: "A"
Skill: TaiJutsu
Effect: Increases the user's speed and power. May cause muscle tissue to tear on use.
Special: ---
Drawback: (Fortitude 20) User could become Fatigued for the rest of the encounter plus 10 minutes.
Description: Picture Located in the center of the chest. Its function is love, its inner state is compassion, love, its color is green. Its stones are: Green/Pink stones—Peridot, Rose Quartz, and Malachite. This Chakra is the Air Chakra; it deals with Love and is blocked by Grief. Balancing this Chakra is important for the circulatory system, heart and thymus. It also affects spiritual love, compassion and universal oneness. This Celestial gate releases the limit of Oxygen going to the lungs, making more oxygen for the user's body to use.
Takes 4 Movements to Activate.
+8 Pain Threshold Bonus to Will.
+6 enchantment bonus to Weapon Damage.
+4 enchantment bonus to Movements.
+12 Temporary Gate Points.
If 4th Gate is opened longer than 2 consecutive rounds, user gains a penalty of -5 Weapon Size in TaiJutsu Damage, and -2 movements for 24 hours once gate closes.

Shenjie began to attack without discretion. He swung kicks and punches. He did everything he could yet the fellow escaped him. He threw a high kick at the fellow’s head, leaving a huge opening to be counter attack. He wasn’t thinking tactically at this point, but rather was focusing on destruction. He felt his leg getting swept out from under him as he could feel his body colliding with the floor. It was as if he was being crushed. His body felt like it had been pounded with thousands of pounds of force. He coughed, feeling a difficulty breathing as he rolled backwards trying to recover. His senses were blurred, and his balance as shot. He felt as disoriented as his emotions were. He tottered as the fellow came closer to him, laughing ominously. He would have fought more if he could have. He exhaled trying to focus. His ears focused on the fellow waiting patiently. He knew that he didn’t have all the answers. He couldn’t even think straight, yet he was determined. He quickly threw a front kick in an attempt to get the fellow to get back. He put a good deal of force behind it as the fellow slipped, going for another low Thai kick. Shenjie had anticipated this and used his free leg to jump throwing a quick spinning jump kick.

The fellow blocked the attack, but he could still hear him laughing. Why did Shenjie feel like he was being mocked by himself? It was as if he had made the wrong decisions over and over. He felt the need to retreat from his grief as the fellow began to move towards him in the slow methodical pattern yet again. He could tell that everything he was doing was failing, and it was kind of how he felt in general. He stopped, and this time prepared himself to give into his primal rage. He let everything slow down around him as he thought for a moment that would allow him the time to think about what he wanted to do. His heart was pounding, but this moment of meditation and control seemed to slow the heart as he was about to unleash his full fury against the murder of his master. He couldn’t help but feel like he needed to destroy him. This confrontation was going to be difficult, but something that Shenjie couldn’t control. His anger was too much, or so he thought.

He let his mind clear up as his rage took shape. His posture became resolute as he took on a heaven and earth stance, with one hand towards his face and the other down by his belt. He was enraged, and so his Satsui no Hado was seeping from his body, much like the gate energy would do internally. He felt the fellow attacking him as he processed the attack in slow motion. He began to block the kicks as he processed what he was going to do as he felt a punch coming towards his head, as if the fellow was sensing Shenjie’s sudden seriousness. Moving in a spinning type motion, the threw a spinning elbow towards the fellow’s head, feeling it miss, but not stopping as he continued the turn. He used his other hand to throw a strong downward punch towards the fellow’s collar bone. He could feel the shoulder being knocked out of place. It was as if it was an unexpected follow up. It was interesting how rage suddenly began to overtake Shenjie’s grief.

[The Blind Beast]

??/90
+1 from Training Area
+1 A Class

(4) Gate of Pain - Anahata: The Heart Chakra
Rank: "A"
Skill: TaiJutsu
Effect: Increases the user's speed and power. May cause muscle tissue to tear on use.
Special: ---
Drawback: (Fortitude 20) User could become Fatigued for the rest of the encounter plus 10 minutes.
Description: Picture Located in the center of the chest. Its function is love, its inner state is compassion, love, its color is green. Its stones are: Green/Pink stones—Peridot, Rose Quartz, and Malachite. This Chakra is the Air Chakra; it deals with Love and is blocked by Grief. Balancing this Chakra is important for the circulatory system, heart and thymus. It also affects spiritual love, compassion and universal oneness. This Celestial gate releases the limit of Oxygen going to the lungs, making more oxygen for the user's body to use.
Takes 4 Movements to Activate.
+8 Pain Threshold Bonus to Will.
+6 enchantment bonus to Weapon Damage.
+4 enchantment bonus to Movements.
+12 Temporary Gate Points.
If 4th Gate is opened longer than 2 consecutive rounds, user gains a penalty of -5 Weapon Size in TaiJutsu Damage, and -2 movements for 24 hours once gate closes.

Shenjie awoke suddenly from his sweat inducing dream. The strange meditative nature of what he had seen still sticking within his very being as he sat up, feeling his heart pumping. He had failed to open the gate, or so it seemed. He did not intend to attempt to open another gate, yet he knew that it was time that he surpassed his master’s wishes and became strong enough to open at least seven gates at some point. He exhaled, standing up in the wake of his failure. “The fourth gate is the gate of pain…and god knows I feel enough of that,” Shenjie said sadly as he stood up and wobbled a bit. All he could think of now were the pains of the past. The things that haunted his dreams, and the failures that defined his life. He was still shaken, and wasn’t quite ready to do anything else yet as the smell of the sage flooded his palate. Shenjie wobbled slowly out to the garden, letting the warm water running outside his home fill his heart with relief. He could remember the happy memories he had spent here. He could smell the moss upon the stone he had been taught to balance on sitting slightly above the flowing water.

His pain began to fade as he thought of the many pleasures and lovely memories he had shared at his masters old home. He could feel the water subtly rolling down the stream as Shenjie stepped out into the water. He clear liquid was smooth against his rough feet as he exhaled in a controlled fashion. His fourth chakra gate began to open up once again as he took on a solid stance, reaching out to the world before sucking it all into his body. This was a figurative move, but it was meant to express the control of one’s body. He felt his fingers turn over as he began to do the Kata there in the river, letting his memories of happier times flood over him. The moments he spent cultivating his martial arts, the journeys he made. All these things reminded him of how good life could be. He remembered meeting the twins, the strange Fumiko and her sister Junko. Shenjie could remember the comic antics of Krystal and her strange lover. These happier thoughts were the things that fueled the gate that he was trying to understand. He could think of all the things he loved in this world.

Be it just as friends, he still loved all the people he had come to spend time with. Haora was a good friend of his, but he had gone somewhere. Shenjie’s body continued to move, fashioning the moves he knew all too well. He had cultivated his body into a machine, but his heart was still gentle. Karate was designed for self-defense, and Shenjie tried to remember that. His Ansatsuken often drove him to anger, striking down his opponents, crushing through them. There was another way, and it was led by love. He would need to be more protective of those he fought if this were to be the case. Shenjie had been debating taking grappling classes, but that might actually be the best way to control his opponent without crushing them.