The Price of a Soul [Epic]

[Madame Loki]

Sandy stuck out her tongue at Grove as Ryu gave her some of his bacon. Grove rolled her eyes at Sandy as she listened to Ryu, "Anything you find or are given in this tower can be taken with you, once you have decided to leave. Except us of course." Grove said with a smile on her face, as she answered Ryu's question, and then tilted her head to the side as he told them all to take some metal sand. Grove shrugged her shoulders and placed her hand out to receive the sand. She would store it away properly later. The twins who had just finished packing up the materials they would need, walked over as well.

They reached out their hands to take the sand that Ryu was offering, and Sandy did the same after she stuffed her face full of bacon. Omega 7 waited for the others to get the sand before she went to receive her's as well. She didn't think I would be necessary, if their abilities where used properly, but it couldn't hurt, so there was no real need not to take some as well. After she had stored the sand and she folded her arms and then then said, "If you are ready Ryu we can start heading to those the elevator that will take us out of 'The Lobby'." Their journey was only just beginning, it was time to set out.

[Ryutatsu "Sakurai Sword"]

Ryutatsu when he was done handing out the sand nodded once to Nina's comment and strapped the last of his packs and pouches on. He was ready to go in a far shorter time most would expect with the amount of hardware he carried. But then again he was a seasoned Shinobi and was use to travel. Using the map in the book they provided he led the way out of the room and towards the Elevator. This was just the Lobby and was impossibly big. He wondered if every level was like this. The only way to know for sure was to experience it.

While they were walking he was thinking of how to best mix the mesh of abilities they had. The twins would be best used in a defensive formation, with Grove as a backup. Sandy and Nina would be the best for offensive measures. But he had to balance them and he needed to fit his own aggressive nature into the mix. Five NINA and one Sword Master of a Shinobi to explore a tower of impossible dimensions. What could go wrong?

[Madame Loki]

Omega 7 and the other NINAs bowed gently to Ryu as he made his decision to head out. They all got their gear ready, although frankly they didn't need much. Omega simply grabbed her staff, while Sandy put her headphones on. Grove part her mask back onto the her face, and put her hood on over her head, leaving nothing but her green hair, her beautiful eyes, and the cleavage of her sizable bust showing. Eva and Emma grabbed the bags that they had prepared, and the 6 of them made their way out of the lodgings, and the Turtle man bid them a farewell and good luck on their up coming journey. Ryu lead the way, as the 5 NINA walked around him and on his side.

Omega 7 brought up the rear, positioning herself right behind Ryu to provide a additional cover from any attempts to steal their masks, while Sandy walk as his right hand side, with her hand behind her head, and Grove walked on his left, with her hand in the pockets of her jumper. Eva And Emma walked in the front, to provide the first like of defense. They soon arrive at their destination, and in front of them was a large elevator, the was the size of a parking lot, like one would would find at a large store. There seemed to be a size-able crowd gathering, as someone was blocking the way. Upon closer inspection you could see that it was a group of men, blocking the entrance.

"Listen up to louts... No one is getting on the elevator to the floors, unless you're doing it under Rebecca's Flag you got it? Rebecca is getting tired of interference from you losers. So in her wisdom she going to nip it in the bud. Either you work for her... or you stay here." Omega 7 grimaced as she was a bit annoyed. This was a sound strategy. To coral men and pawns at the start of their journey before they became much more acquainted with the tower. Many would take the opportunity, because it would make their travels easier. Omega 7 leaned over to whisper to Ryu, "There are other ways to reach the next floor. We can take it if you wish."

"I say we kick their asses. Even if we do take the other way, they're still just going to be blocking this route and recruiting more people to join." Sandy said as she gave her options on matter.

"Yes... but when we defeat them it won't change much. They'll just send others to replace them after we're gone. Also there are elevators up on every platform here. What will us temporarily opening up this one do? Not to mention it will basically be a declaration of war, especially with Omega 7... I mean Nina present."

"It will make noise. Give others the balls to fight back. Plus if we do it right. They won't even know Nina had anything to do with it." Sandy would retort to Grove. Omega 7 sighed,

"We could use this to turn others to our side. However, it will draw attention to us a little sooner than I would have anticipated. Of course this is not outside the realms of my calculations. If I understand Sandy correctly, it could work. You can attack them with Grove and Sandy, while I and the twins use the alternate route to meet you on the next floor. Of course, I will not be there to aid you directly so the risk would be greater. Or we can all just take the alternate route, and ignore this for the moment. The Choice is yours, Ryu. "

[Ryutatsu "Sakurai Sword"]

Ryutatsu looked over the crowd and assessed the people he saw there. He tried to get a feel for the general mood of the crowd and who was leaning to what way. "Nina, Go ahead and take the Twins as either way you three need to go around. Sandy and Grove, Lets try not for direct confrontation yet. Let's see how swayed the lackey's are. More we can pry from Rebecca the less reinforcements later. If we can sway them to be future allies even better. How many Nina do you see among the crowd?"

Ryutatsu shook his head and then squared up his shoulders. Even though he dress and acted the warrior maybe the people here would still see his youth and underestimate him. Unlike in his home country where it was common for kids for be warriors it wasn't as common here he hoped. He grabbed a handful of seeds and as he walked by and moved his way through the crowd to the one's blocking the way he dropped a trail of seeds. One of his past instructors was about always creating the advantage.

Ryutatsu looked at Grove and hope she knew her business enough to know when and how to use illusion to back up what he was about to do. As he made it to the front he looked at the ones blocking the door. "What does working for Rebecca gain them? It sounds like only she benefits. If they are losers why is she afraid of them doing their own exploring? I mean it's not like space is an issue?" Ryutatsu said this at the blockers from behind some of the crowd. At this point he was in the crowd towards the area of those least convinced to support Rebecca.

He was basically trying to break apart the crowd into factions so they will disperse and do most the work for him. He didn't need them to be lackey's to do him this favor. The people's own attitudes would do him some favor. If they were anything like others who have came here they were at least independent enough to rankle under the disrespect shown by the Rebecca faction.

[Madame Loki]

Omega 7 nodded her head, and then turned away as she said, "Then we will see you on the first floor. Good luck." Omega 7 and then twins then turned and began to walk away as Nina lead them to one of the alternate routes that she knew of to get them to the next level of the tower. As Omega 7 left Sandy looked over at Ryu as he asked many NINA where there in the crowd, "About half the beings present, are NINA. They won't be hard to spot." Indeed they were not, as all the NINA male and female alike all seemed to be standing there rather calmly, without any signs of negative emotions on their faces, while all their users had some from of emotion clouding their face, be it rage, fear or curiosity.

As Ryu began to move Forward Grove began to step away and then faded seemingly faded from reality. As only Sandy followed Ryu forward through the crowd. Grove was no fool, Ryu appearing to more than one NINA, would already label him as a threat, not only that, but it would do her well to remain hidden as long as possible, to get to most out of her abilities. As Grove retreated back to get into a good sniping position, Sandy remained in her nonchalant demeanor as she held her hands behind her head. She raised an eyebrow as ryu began to call out the individuals guarding the elevator.

The two weren't really phase by the boys words. He wasn't the first to snap at them in such a way nor would he be the last in their eyes. They had answers and threats waiting for the boy, "Safety is what they get. The tower's a dangerous place boy. More than 50% of the people here will end up dead, before years end. She's not afraid of you weaklings. The higher we go up the tower, the more dangerous things get. We need to work to together to make it to the top. Anyone refusing, is just an obstacle, making life difficult for the rest of us." The other man jumped in, "Think about kid, when we make it to top, mapped out this place, we can use it to help everyone that comes after. No more walking blindly into traps and suicidal situations. If your not part of the solution, then your part of the problem, and you have no business going any further."

After the two men spoke, some of the crowd was actually starting to agree with at least some of what he was saying, several of them came up, and said that they wouldn't mind joining Rebecca, a few more came just because they thought it would be safer that way. Other's still seemed to be on the fence.

"F*&k'in Cowards! We came here for adventure, did we not? And you miserable cowards quiver in the face of adversity, fools." A man shouted out and began to step forward in front of Ryu. "We all came to the tower of dreams seeking something, you don't deserve it, if you are not willing to die for it!" Several more in the crowd started to nod their heads in agreement, though the to men standing there didn't seem to bothered. "Say what you will, if you're not joining Rebecca, you will not pass."

[Ryutatsu "Sakurai Sword"]

Ryutatsu couldn't help but smile a little. Discord was small but growing, already there are people challenging both sides of the argument. Now how to push either side further along into open conflict. Either way the playing field would be thinned by their own hand. "So safety is what they get when you threaten with violence? I wonder if they are you stop being useful do they get tossed to the side like she tossed you down to the lobby? So anyone not bowing down to someone who doesn't even respect her subordinates enough to support them is an obstacle and obstacles must be stopped eh?"

"Notice they only block the safest and easiest way? I wonder are they trying to protect the people who come or just their own behinds because they fear this Rebecca. The Carrot and the Stick notice they went for the stick first so you all would be grateful for the carrot hoping you won't notice that they are the real threat?" Then Ryutatsu took a step back and allowed more the of discussion unfold, time was mostly on his side at the moment.

[Madame Loki]

"Look at this guy. You just get here? You obviously don't know much of anything. There is no.. safest way to the next floor. If felt to your own devices, no doubt one or a group of you would have tried to take out the others before the elevator got to the next level. It take two days for the elevator to bring you to the next floor. Do you now why NINA usually suggest resting and preparing before hopping on this thing?" The man turned to look at his own NINA, that was standing behind him quietly all this time. She stepped forward and nodded her head, before looking at the crowd before her.

"Every elevator will experience fatalities totaling in nearly 60% before reaching the next floor. This is the average, percentages vary from time to time. These fatalities are the result to Users interaction with each other." After the NINA had spoken the man nodded his head and walked forward, "It just the nature of all mortal creatures it seems. They want everything for themselves, and so to snuff out competition, they kill them before they can be a threat. I positive that there are several in the crowd now who had such ideas." As he said this there were in fact several people in the crowd, who scoffed a bit annoyed, it wasn't hard to tell that these individuals had such plans.

"I violence we put forth, is a mercy, and a far cry from death. For the record, she didn't send us down here. We volunteered. Rebecca doesn't throw away allies, even if they are useless. And a assure you we are far from useless." The man said as he began to over flow with power. A visible black and oppressive aura began to seep off of him. He looked human, but it was clear that he was a far cry from it. As the aura seeped off his body several in the crowd who were clamoring in the crowd, eager to fight, lost a lot of their courage. The Aura was oppressive, but the other man that was with him, didn't seem effected by it all out. Although it would be hard to tell, with the black hood covering his face and most of his features.

The Hooded one took a step forward, he turn his body towards Ryu, "Rebecca, is many things, but a fool she is not. She does not underestimate her potential enemies or allies. She would request no one but her finest to come and scout for talent and guard this entrance way. This is the first recruitment like this we done, so me and my friend here decided volunteered for the honor, to bring in the first wave. Once we take the ones smart enough to join from this lot, others will take our place. It's the same at every stop. This tower will be conquered. Join our cause, so that others that follow after can achieve their dreams, without needless deaths, or. Stay. Out. Of. Our. Way!"

As he said this the hooded figure looked over towards the man that was the loudest with Ryu before. The man, took a step back, it was clear that these two were dangerous individuals, and being that his only visible unwavering ally in this situation was a mere child, it would be best to not initiate anything foolish. " But hey... call it what you want. I honestly don't give a damn. Regardless of what you think of us. Unless your fighting with Rebecca, or you best us. You're not making it on that elevator... Period." After saying this, the other man, with the hooded figure, smirked and unfolded his arms. The crowd had quieted down considerably.

Whether it was the man's intimidation, or his persuasion or a combination of the two it was hard to say. What was clear, is the crowd seemed to be in the palm of his hand. Sandy who had an unconcerned look on her face leaned over to Ryu and then said, "So let's just kick their asses. If their Some of Rebecca's top guys, then kicking their asses to sway these people right? I say we challenge them. They basically left that door open." Of Course Sandy wanted to fight, that's all she ever wanted to do. Thought reaching the people around them with words alone may be a bit more difficult then originally thought. What was more concerning was there was no sign of the Hooded Man's NINA.

Elevator Blocker -Name unknown-
His NINA
Hooded figure

[Ryutatsu "Sakurai Sword"]

Ryutatsu looked unconcerned about the lack of humanity or the oppressive aura though he did feel it. Words were not his usual way of things and this would be a good stretch anyways. It wasn't he was underestimating the abilities of the duo but that he was confident in his own abilities. Without moving a hair or hand seals, lightning began to spark off the boy. He was sheathed in blue-white lightning that for reasons unknown to the duo unless they could see chakra and could act with foresight would find both of them shocked as if hit by a lightning bolt. The NINA with the door guard would find getting shocked as well.

Then suddenly he completed a series of hand seals that took no time at all and vines of thorns and roses would burst from the seeds that he had left in his wake and around himself. These would be flowering bushes of roses and other flowers. Suddenly the petals as more hand seals flew from the boy would entrap the hooded one with the petals that were very close beside him. Then Ryutatsu would stretch out his hand and a fully formed serrated with thorns vine Katana with budding Roses.

"Kinder you say? So you recruit these ones who would stoop to killing and then release them among others who have no plans letting the strong survive eh? Even your NINA spoke that mortals want everything and will go very far for that. Rebecca is the mortal she is describing. Let's see how good you all are. I am Lightning." Ryutatsu spoke as the vines and petals burst forth. Further though he stretched his senses to others in the crowd, any that looked like were going to attack him would find themselves shocked as well.

Ryutatsu wasn't finished of course this was just him preparing as his breathing was very even and gale winds played with his hair. Suddenly the weapon in his hand disappeared to those without the sight to see properly. "Let them through and let the mortals decide their own fate. For only fate can decide how a story will end."

SPOILER: Click to show

Chidori Nagashi, 千鳥流し (One Thousand Birds Current)
Rank: "A"
Skill: NinJutsu
Effect: A variation on a regular Chidori, this jutsu allows the user to generate electrically charged chakra from his body, instead of just concentrating it in their hand. The electricity can be channeled anywhere, allowing the user to enhance their attacks or defend themself. As an offensive technique, because the electricity isn't focused, it doesn't kill on contact, only paralyzes. The Current can also be sent through the ground to attack opponents from their blind spot. The user can also channel the electricity through a sword increasing its overall strength and cutting power, as well as making the area cut numb.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: This technique does not have the same drawbacks as that of Chidori, 千鳥, "One Thousand Birds" do to the fact that the user concentrates the technique within their whole entire body to where it is not simply concentrated in one area. Whenever the user stabs, or takes hold of an opponent the user pulses the electrical currents into the opponent's body making them immobile, as well as paralyzed. The user is only capable of shooting this technique within the ground within the distance of twenty meters to hit against opponents all around to try and paralyze them as well by hitting blind spots. This technique is also capable of being produced to stop techniques within the Earth Realm of "B" Rank and lower which may occur within the distance of ten meters around the user. Any earth technique created outside this range is still capable of harming the user. For cutting power this technique is capable of making all cuts numb paralysing the section it cuts as well as increasing a blade technique by contact of sword by one rank.
Limit: Must know Chidori, 千鳥, "One Thousand Birds", Must know Sealess Chidori, 千鳥, "One Thousand Birds"

Puranto Ninpou: Haeru
Rank: "E"
Skill: Ninjutsu
Effect: A basic technique of the Ikebana, where the user molds a certain type of chakra to feed it to the clan’s special seeds and make them sprout into flowers. With other techniques, the seeds can grow into different kinds of plants.
Drawback: ---
Special: “Hand Seals”
Description: This is the first clan technique for the members of Ikebana to learn, since it’s needed for many other techniques. The user spreads the needed amount of seeds in the desired area and uses then the hand seals to make the seeds sprout into flowers instantly – almost as soon as the seals have been formed the flowers are ready for use. The seeds will always respond to Haeru chakra, no matter where the seeds are when the technique is used: One bag of the Silene seeds can become a full-sized, flower filled meadow even in sand and snow, or while floating on water. The basic form of Haeru creates red, blue, white and yellow daisies, but by molding their chakra in a slightly different way, the user can also create other kinds of flowers.
Limit: Must be in the Ikebana Clan.

Hana Ninpou: Hana Fuujikomu no Kusari (Flower Ninja Art: Flower Entrapment Chain)
Rank: "C"
Skill: Clan Ninjutsu
Effect: Creates a chain of flower petals which is used to hold an opponent in place.
Special: Hand Seals
Drawback: Best performed when within a field of flowers. If the opponent is not standing upon the flowers, then the technique may still be used, but the petals will need to move towards the opponent, giving them greater ability to dodge. Weak to fire.
Description: Unlike most Ikebana techniques, this ability focuses entirely upon capturing and subduing an opponent rather than destroying them. Performing the required hand seals, the user will create a chain of flowers, which is capable of extending, at maximum, twenty meters, which is usually wrapped around the opponent's leg in order to chain them. Because of the chakra within it, the petals resist cutting unless from a strong source (B rank or higher attack) and will retain their formation unless severed or if the opponent has enough strength to break free. The user is capable of holding a Taijutsu Non-Specialist for up to three turns with this ability, a Taijutsu specialist for one and a half turns, a Taijutsu master can break out in half a turn.
Limit: Must be in the Ikebana Clan. Must know Puranto Ninpou: Haeru.

Baratake (Rose Length)
Rank: "C"
Skill: NinJutsu
Effect: A user may use a Rose as a lengthened weapon like a larger blade or a spiked club.
Special: As long as the user holds onto the rose and uses Barabuki (Rose Weapon) the user may change the size of the Rose without additional handseals.
Drawback: ---
Description: Holding the bud of the rose the user; after performing Barabuki (Rose Weapon) may control the length of the rose at will. The user may allow the rose stem grow in size, or even shrink it. The user may shrink the Rose to the size of a few inches, and may increase the size of the Rose to the size of a Great Sword. With this technique the user may also increase the size of the stem's width as well. This means that the user may increase the stem to the width size of a baseball bat or a large club. The user may also use the thorns of the whip as sharp tacks to sheer off skin or clothing that the whip attaches to. User may not change the stem size to abnormal shapes such as a shield.
Limit: Must be in the Ikebana Clan. Must know Barabuki (Rose Weapon

Ethereal Tempest
Rank: "A"
Skill: NinJutsu
Effect: User can conceal their weapon for an extended period of time while giving it additional damage.
Special: Handseals
Drawback: ---
Description: Range of this technique is touch. Duration of this technique is 5 minutes per Class Level. Target is 1 weapon. User is able to create a distortion in the air around their weapon, concealing it from sight. This is an advanced version of Air Current Weapon Concealment and does not have charges. The weapon does not become visible until the Duration of the technique runs out. The target must succeed on an Observation check vs. Stealth check. The weapon gains a +100 to Stealth, even if the target can See Chakra or See Through Chakra. If failed the target will see a blur. Discharging is a free-movement. This technique improves weapon damage giving an Enchantment bonus to Weapon Damage by 6 Armour Points per Class Level. User may sacrifice 6 Armour Points of damage to extend the Wind around the user, giving the user a +1 Class Point for the purpose of overcoming Improved Uncanny Dodge.
Limit: Must know Wind Release. Must know Air Current Weapon Concealment.

[Madame Loki]

As the lightning arched towards the group, and NINA standing there did nothing, but look on. The lightning then arched around the group harmlessly, and then dispersed. As the Flowers came to life, the NINA standing there snapped her fingers, and as she did so the flower petals burst into flames for an instant and then dissolved into ash. The two men stood there, silently, as Sandy looked at the NINA in front of her. Grove on the other hand was searching the area for signs of the hooded man's NINA, but as of right now she had no signs of her. That being to case it was hard to tell which of the 4 could have nullified Ryu's Lightning, in that moment. While it was obvious that the NINA was the one responsible for taking care of the flower.

"Yes..." The Hooded man responded to Ryu, plainly. "Why does it matter who joins our ranks? Is one person better than the other? Such self righteous ideals, have no place in this world. If you are able and willing... you will do. Even if you are weak, there is always a place you could be useful. Such lofty ideals as yours are meaningless, in the face of survival. Fate is for those with no will of their own. If they feel they are strong enough to make it up this tower on their own. Then prove it! You are not entitled to dreams you are not willing to fight for." He said to Ryu, as he stepped forward and then motioned for the other man and his NINA to step back. It seemed that he intended to face Ryu on his own.

"If you and your NINA can even bring me to a single knee, before I knock you unconscious. I will let you, and 5 others of your choosing to pass." The Hooded man then folded his arms, as his partner back away, clearing the crowd out of the way as well. It seemed this child had gotten on his colleague's skin. That was not a wise move. Sandy on the other hand dropped her hands down to her side and then leaned into Ryu to say, "I have no idea where his NINA is. It could be a stealth type, or super long distance, like Grove. Or something I've never encountered before. We'll need to be careful."

[Ryutatsu "Sakurai Sword"]

Ryutatsu raised an eyebrow as his lightning did little and his flowers were a-washed in flame. So the NINA, one or both of them are capable of suppressing his abilities. That was an interesting data point but one that wasn't concerning. His Ninjutsu was secondary to his Taijutsu but it was impressive either way though. The man's speech spoke of an arrogance that matched or exceeded his own. The situation was good instead of a two on one or Four on Three it is now two on three and the other man didn't know it.

The situation was made more interesting in the fact Grove was hidden as well as the Hooded Man's NINA. "Interesting, find the NINA if you can but stay close. I have a feeling this hooded one is similar to me, Probably outclasses me in a couple of areas. No matter. Hooded one I accept your challenge, but if we are going to do this right lets introduce ourselves. I am Ryutatsu Kyoudo, you are?"

Ryutatsu sheathed his Rose Thorn Sword in a vine sheath that grew around him. It too turned invisible so it appeared that Ryutatsu was as he was before except he was still sparking. The Lightning child's stance fell into a readying one as everyone backed off except for the hooded man. He hoped the man wouldn't disappoint him. It's been awhile since Ryutatsu had to really stretch his abilities.

[Madame Loki]

The Hooded Man slightly tilted his head to the side as he looked at Ryu. He observed as he spoke to Sandy quietly, his face could not been seen through this mask, but there was a smile there. "If you're wondering where my NINA is, do not bother." The Other man started to laugh, as he placed his hand towards his mouth, "Big Guy here is very prideful... and a big softie. He doesn't bring her, often. But if he needs her, she'll be here, don't worry." The man said with a smile on his face. The Mask Man, looked at Sandy and commented to his companion, "Azi... you talk too much." As the hooded man said this, Zazi's NINA nodded her head, "I agree..." Azi had a look of shock on his face and then shrugged.

"Not like it matters. Just knock the kid out so we can go." Azi said. "It will not be that easy... the NINA that is accompanying him, is quite formidable. The human boy himself, is also... fairly decent. On your own, under the rules you have set for yourself, your probability of success is 65%." The hooded man stared at Sandy, and then turned his attention back over toward Ryu. It had been sometime since Azi's Nina, had given him such low odds for success. But Thankfully, this would alert him to his enemies fight power. He would not take the boy and his NINA lightly.

The Hooded man smirked under his covered face, when the boy gave his name. "Hmmp... so there IS honor in your world. I am Zorak Melphin. and I'm going to change things up a bit. If you win, you get what a previously stated. If I win, I'm taking you with us. Rather you like it or not." As he spoke, he let out a breath, and a cold mist escaped out through mask, as he got into a fighting stance of his own. It was like nothing Ryu would have seen in his world. His right foot, move forward slightly, as he brought his left hand out in front of him while letting his right hand hang at his side.

[Ryutatsu "Sakurai Sword"]

Ryutatsu listened to the analysis by Azi and the rant of Zorak. At least he was making connections of names and associations. The bit about his NINA was interesting however. It would explain his loyalty to how Rebecca was reported to be. Either way neither them has made a bit move yet, but their posturing was interesting. Ryutatsu didn't recognize the stance but that was alright. It simply meant it was a style that differed from his experience.

But that also left him with both and advantage and a disadvantage. It was unlikely Zorak would be any more familiar with his style than he was of Zorak's. But further Ryutatsu was quite the student of various styles and not only that and in how body moves in general to make those styles work. Sword work especially was really familair as there is only so many angles a blade can come from. Unarmed is similar as there is only so many movements possible with the human body.

But then again he hasn't seen this man's face nor body so he is humanoid but may not be human. That left Ryutatsu thinking through several possibilities. Ryutatsu held back for the moment but nodded to Sandy to engage Zorak. This would give him time to analyze. Further he was deciding which mask would be better to wear for this encounter. How much of his hand did he want to play was the question in his mind.

Ryutatsu wasn't the same blunt instrument he was before but he was still fairly straightforward. Lightning and Flowers were not of use until he could figure out how to counter their counters. He needed more information basically. This Hooded man was the best for him to sharpen himself on.

[Madame Loki]

Sandy cracked her neck and then let her hands fall to her side. She like Zorak had a fighting style that was not quite like anything Ryu had seen. While it incorporated, styles that would have been familiar, they were not exactly as they should be, in terms of his world. Sandy swayed back and forward oddly. As he body would swing forward once more, she vanished with pure speed, and appeared in front of Zorak. Her Left leg was stretched out behind him, as he body reeled forward to send an uppercut into his gut. "Fast!" Is all Zorak had the time to say, the punch seemingly plowed into his gut. He was set flying into the air, but flipped out of it and landed on the ground some 10 meters away from Sandy, softly.

Sandy looked down at her fist, and it was covered in a layer of ice. He had managed to both react to her speed, and compensate for the power gap, in an instant. Creating a layer of ice, and moving in the direction of the punch to substantially reduce the damage he would receive. "Hmmm...." Zorak mused to himself. This Nina was indeed powerful. Much more so than a majority of the NINA he had fought up to this point, and this one had not yet used any of it's Command Abilities. "You have a strong NINA..." Zorak pulled a mask out, and Sandy looked on a bit shocked. The Mask was a Beta, but it had 6 eyes. "If that's the mask I think it is. This could be bad." Sandy said, as she immediately went on the charge.

Zorak, looked up at Sandy, and let out a chuckle. Sandy closed the distance, quickly, and flurry of blows began to rain down on Zorak. As the blows came, Zorak had to spend all of his time, evading, and blocking Sandy. He had been in this tower for what amounted to Centuries. The battle experience, he had gained over that time, was invaluable. It didn't matter what your style was, he had come to see the tells in combat movement. Even someone his superior in speed and strength would find it difficult to hit him. This was much the case For Sandy. Without the use of her Eye Commands, managing to land more than a glancing blow would prove to be difficult. Zorak on the other hand, just needed one opening, to get his Mask on.

[Ryutatsu "Sakurai Sword"]

Ryutatsu smiled for the Zorak was revealing a lot more than he thought he was. Ice abilities like that was similar to Kininata. The speed of reaction was the more impressive part. few kept up with his speed and even fewer could match the speed of a NINA. Beta, six eyed mask however was the most concerning, it meant there were six abilities as well being probably of a decent to high power level.

Ryutatsu wasn't idle as he watched. His hand redrew the invisible Rose Thorn and infused it with more chakra. This time he was infusing it with Earth to make his first blow a crushing blow. That made the blade of three elements besides it's rose nature. For it was like the stone of the Earth to crush, sheathed in the Tempest of wind to strengthen, and coated with lightning to give it even more of a bite. Even a slight touch of this weapon would cause serious problems for most.

Ryutatsu saw all that he needed to start, he was still holding back his aces for a battle plan was formulating even as his body moved in a blink. Ryutatsu knew exactly what he was doing for he could tell that Zorak was indeed like him and used opponents own tells against them. But seeing a tell and properly evading was very difficult if impossible if he performed one of his start moves. And that he did for be blinked to appear behind the Zorak.

At the instant of appearing Ryutatsu released the nine dragons, basically he struck from the eight points around and stabbed in the middle all at the same instant. It was a move of such speed that there was no evasion, for the only way to evade would be directly away right into sandy who would be able to capitalize on that. Further, Ryutatsu's strikes were not the limp wristed of a basic user of such techniques.

Ryutatsu had spent years mastering the sword, and had become world renown for it on his own world. He was a prodigy when it came to how he used the sword. Specializinf in his Katana movements gave him a since of just where to strike. His strikes were penetrating and could penetrate to an even greater degree than most would assume. Further he was a veteran with his sword as well. There was an understanding of reading just when and where to strike.

His style also incorporated the principles of Ken Mai making his movements quicker and more efficient than normally would be possible. This made reading his own movements even harder as he had fewer tells, but more importantly Zorak would be facing the wrong way. Teleport would be this man's only option to evade a set of heavy blows that would cut and paralyze. And unknown to all there was worse things than that if even a scratch landed.

SPOILER: Click to show

Chakra Flow
Rank: "A"
Skill: NinJutsu
Effect: A technique that allows the user to infuse chakra into their weapon and deal additional damage.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Target of this technique is 1 held weapon, up to 5 thrown weapons, or up to 5 ammunitions. Duration of this technique is 5 minutes per Class Level. This technique imbues a held object or up to 5 thrown weapon with chakra until the technique expires or 1 round after they are dropped. The imbued weapons count as chakra enhanced to bypass damage reduction and deals an additional 6 Armour Points of Force Damage to objects and creatures made of pure chakra. This damage does not apply to creatures like clones or summon creatures. With the right release the user may imbue the weapon with that release.
Crushing (Earth affinity, Earth descriptor): The crushing weapon has hardness 20, bypasses cold iron damage reduction and ignores hardness from objects with 8 hardness or below. Objects enhanced with this effect retain normal hardness. The weapon gains a +2 enchantment bonus to attack damage.
Vibrating (Lightning affinity, Electricity descriptor): The vibrating weapon ignores all hardness from objects and up to 5 points of damage reduction. Objects enhanced with this effect retain normal hardness. The weapon gains a +2 enchantment bonus to attack damage.
Searing (Fire affinity, Fire descriptor): The searing weapon reduces the hardness and damage reduction of objects or creatures it strikes by 2 for 3 rounds. Each hit reduces hardness and damage reduction further by 2, up to a maximum of 10, but does not refresh the duration. This effect ends after the weapon successfully hits 5 times. The weapon gains a +2 enchantment bonus to attack damage.
Slicing (Wind affinity, Wind descriptor): The slicing weapon ignores up to 15 points of hardness or damage reduction. The effect ends after the weapon successfully hits 4 times. The weapon gains a +2 enchantment bonus to attack damage.
Slowing (Water affinity, Water descriptor): The slowing weapon reduces the Defense of the creature it hits by 1 for 2 rounds. Each hit further reduces the target's Defense by 1, maximum -5. The effect ends after the weapon successfully hits 5 times. The weapon gains a +2 enchantment bonus to attack damage.
Limit: Universal NinJutsu Technique. Must know correct Release.

Blink
Rank: "B"
Skill: Chakra Trait
Effect: The user can teleport a brief distance.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: The user has experienced or traveled through different planes of existence at a young age, and so formed an attunement with the fabric of space. Once per day per class level, the user may teleport 3 meters per Class Level in any direction. The blink teleport may be used in the air or underwater, but it doesn't teleport the user through or into solid spaces unless the user is incorporeal. This brief teleportation takes a weaving movement to use but is an instantaneous action. This trait replaces 2 Freebies.
Limit: Must start with Character; replaces 2 Freebies.

Baratake (Rose Length)
Rank: "C"
Skill: NinJutsu
Effect: A user may use a Rose as a lengthened weapon like a larger blade or a spiked club.
Special: As long as the user holds onto the rose and uses Barabuki (Rose Weapon) the user may change the size of the Rose without additional handseals.
Drawback: ---
Description: Holding the bud of the rose the user; after performing Barabuki (Rose Weapon) may control the length of the rose at will. The user may allow the rose stem grow in size, or even shrink it. The user may shrink the Rose to the size of a few inches, and may increase the size of the Rose to the size of a Great Sword. With this technique the user may also increase the size of the stem's width as well. This means that the user may increase the stem to the width size of a baseball bat or a large club. The user may also use the thorns of the whip as sharp tacks to sheer off skin or clothing that the whip attaches to. User may not change the stem size to abnormal shapes such as a shield.
Limit: Must be in the Ikebana Clan. Must know Barabuki (Rose Weapon)

Gosei Ryuu: Kuzu-ryūsen (Nine-headed Dragon Flash)
Rank: "S"
Skill: TaiJutsu
Effect: This technique is a formidable technique which utilizes Shinsoku (lit. God-speed) to the fullest extent; dealing nine strikes to the most fundamental targets of swordsmanship (Kara Take, Kesa Giri, Saka Gesa, Hidari Nagi, Migi Nagi, Hidari Kiriage, Migi Kiriage, Saka Kaze, and Tsuki), all at the same time.
Special: ---
Drawback:
Description: These points are the focus of the technique as they make up the basis of one’s guarding stance, regardless of style or weapon. So with the Kuzu-ryūsen, attacking all nine all at once, guarding and dodging becomes virtually pointless. Unlike the multiple strike attack, Ryūsōsen, all nine strikes of the Kuzu-ryūsen carry lethal force. However, weight and power play a critical aspect in the effectiveness of the technique. This means, even if the move is executed without flaw, the force behind the technique will differ from wielder to wielder depending on their class in weight and arm strength. Essentially, a "lighter" Kuzu-ryūsen would be overpowered by a "heavier" Kuzu-ryūsen.
Limit: Must Learn from a Master of Burēdono Kenseijin, Must know Gosei Ryuu: Ryusen (Dragon Strike)

Ethereal Tempest
Rank: "A"
Skill: NinJutsu
Effect: User can conceal their weapon for an extended period of time while giving it additional damage.
Special: Handseals
Drawback: ---
Description: Range of this technique is touch. Duration of this technique is 5 minutes per Class Level. Target is 1 weapon. User is able to create a distortion in the air around their weapon, concealing it from sight. This is an advanced version of Air Current Weapon Concealment and does not have charges. The weapon does not become visible until the Duration of the technique runs out. The target must succeed on an Observation check vs. Stealth check. The weapon gains a +100 to Stealth, even if the target can See Chakra or See Through Chakra. If failed the target will see a blur. Discharging is a free-movement. This technique improves weapon damage giving an Enchantment bonus to Weapon Damage by 6 Armour Points per Class Level. User may sacrifice 6 Armour Points of damage to extend the Wind around the user, giving the user a +1 Class Point for the purpose of overcoming Improved Uncanny Dodge.
Limit: Must know Wind Release. Must know Air Current Weapon Concealment.

Chidori Nagashi, 千鳥流し (One Thousand Birds Current)
Rank: "A"
Skill: NinJutsu
Effect: A variation on a regular Chidori, this jutsu allows the user to generate electrically charged chakra from his body, instead of just concentrating it in their hand. The electricity can be channeled anywhere, allowing the user to enhance their attacks or defend themself. As an offensive technique, because the electricity isn't focused, it doesn't kill on contact, only paralyzes. The Current can also be sent through the ground to attack opponents from their blind spot. The user can also channel the electricity through a sword increasing its overall strength and cutting power, as well as making the area cut numb.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: This technique does not have the same drawbacks as that of Chidori, 千鳥, "One Thousand Birds" do to the fact that the user concentrates the technique within their whole entire body to where it is not simply concentrated in one area. Whenever the user stabs, or takes hold of an opponent the user pulses the electrical currents into the opponent's body making them immobile, as well as paralyzed. The user is only capable of shooting this technique within the ground within the distance of twenty meters to hit against opponents all around to try and paralyze them as well by hitting blind spots. This technique is also capable of being produced to stop techniques within the Earth Realm of "B" Rank and lower which may occur within the distance of ten meters around the user. Any earth technique created outside this range is still capable of harming the user. For cutting power this technique is capable of making all cuts numb paralysing the section it cuts as well as increasing a blade technique by contact of sword by one rank.
Limit: Must know Chidori, 千鳥, "One Thousand Birds", Must know Sealess Chidori, 千鳥, "One Thousand Birds"

Weapon User - Long Sword & Short Sword
Rank: "C"
Skill: Supplementary
Effect: User is more proficient with 2 weapons.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Choose 2 weapons. User is more proficient with those weapons and can deal +2 extra Damage than normal while using these weapons.
Limit: Must be an Artisan. Must have chosen Weapons Crafter's Art.

Weapon Intrigue
Rank: "C"
Skill: Supplementary
Effect: User can alter their proficient weapons to deal other types of weapon damage.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: The user can use their 2 chosen weapons in unusual ways. The user can alter the damage type of the weapon by attacking differently with the weapon. The user can change the weapon damage from Bludgeoning, Piercing, and Slashing. The purpose of this is to alter the user's range of attacks to help them bypass against Damage Reduction.
Limit: Must be an Artisan. Must have chosen Weapons Crafter's Art. Must know Weapon User.

Weapon Veteran
Rank: "B"
Skill: Supplementary
Effect: User becomes even more proficient with the weapon they wield.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: User gains Weapon Training with the 2 weapons they are proficient with. Starting at "D" Class the user gains a +1 attack damage to these weapons. Per additional class level, a user becomes further trained in these weapons. User gains a +1 to attack damage per Class Level (Maximum +5 attack Damage. User may use these +1 (Maximum +5) bonuses as defense against Sundering attempts.
Limit: Must be an Artisan. Must have chosen Weapons Crafter's Art. Must know Weapon User.

Weapon Specialization (Katana)
Rank: "C"
Skill: TaiJutsu/Supplementary
Effect: User is skilled at dealing damage with 1 weapon. Choose 1 type of weapon (including unarmed strike or grapple). You deal extra damage when using this weapon.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: User gains +2 bonus on all attack damage when using the selected weapon. At "B" Class, user gains +1 bonus on all attack damage when using the selected weapon (Increasing to +3). At "S" Class, user gains +1 bonus on all attack damage when using the selected weapon (Increasing to +4).
Limit: Universal TaiJutsu Technique.

Greater Penetrating Strike (Katana)
Rank: "C"
Skill: TaiJutsu
Effect: User's attacks penetrate the defenses of most foes. Choose a weapon that the user has selected for Penetrating Strike.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: User's attacks with the selected weapon ignore up to 10 Armour Points of Damage Reduction. This Amount is reduced to 5 points for Damage Reduction without a type (such as DR 10/—). At "S" Class, this damage is no longer reduced against DR without a type.
Limit: Universal TaiJutsu Technique. Must know Penetrating Strike

Penetrating Strike (Katana)
Rank: "C"
Skill: TaiJutsu
Effect: User's attacks are capable of penetrating the defenses of some creatures.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Choose one type of weapon that the user has already selected for Weapon Specialization. User's attacks with their selected weapon ignoring up to 5 points of Damage Reduction. This technique does not apply to Damage Reduction without a type (Such as Damage Reduction 10/—). At "B" Class, this is no longer reduced against DR without a type.
Limit: Universal TaiJutsu Technique. Must know Weapon Specialization with Selected Weapon.

Elemental Pupil(Lightning)
Rank: "C"
Skill: Regional Trait
Effect: User has studied at the feet of the masters of Release Chakra, and so increased their own mastery of the elements.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Choose one of the energy types, Ice, Lightning, or Fire. When performing a Jutsu of "D" Rank or higher that deals damage of their chosen energy type, the Jutsu does 10 Armour Points of additional damage of the same type. This trait replaces 1 Freebies.
Limit: Must start with Character; replaces 1 Freebies.

Havoc of the Society
Rank: "C"
Skill: Chakra Trait
Effect: Through countless hours studying vast libraries of Chakra power, they have learned how to cause greater damage to their foes.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Whenever the user performs a Jutsu that deals damage, they gain +10 Armour Points in damage to the total damage dealt. This damage is considered Force damage regardless of the type of damage dealt by the Jutsu. This trait replaces 1 Freebies.
Limit: Must start with Character; replaces 1 Freebies.

Ken Mai (Blade Dance)
Rank: E, C, B
Skill: Taijutsu
Effect: The user becomes more graceful and agile, increasing their speed.
Special: --
Drawback: The user must train extensively to increase their speed.
Description: The user, through intensive training and study of the flow of the human body, learns to conserve and streamline their motions, making them faster and more efficient. As a result of this training, the user gains more graceful, faster motions and more efficient reflexes, allowing them to move and react faster than normal when wielding their weapon. This does not increase the speed of the ninja ad lib; it increases the speed and skill with which they can handle a weapon. A ninja may only learn up to their rank in this technique.
Limit: Must learn from a Gintsuki no Seikou Mai Master. Must Ryuuchou Koori (Flowing Ice).

[Madame Loki]

Zorak continued to stay on the defensive against Sandy, all he needed was a single opening, to make his move, and it seemed that Ryu would provide him with exactly what he would need. Keeping track of both of them, to find and opening to put his mask on was far to difficult. Being so close together, made things simple. When you had the numbers, the correct decision was to pincer your target. However, perhaps it would have been better suited to use this when Zorak did not have his defenses up. He was certain that Ryu would not simply let his NINA, fight alone, but he was curious how the boy would respond. "Good decision." Zorak, mused as Ryu vanished and reappeared behind him. Sandy saw the appearance of Ryu behind Zorak and pushed the attack to give the man no room to escape.

Zorak smirked under his mask, "Burst..." As he said this a barrier of icy mist exploded around him. Just as Ryu's attack came forth, and Sandy continued her's their attacks collided into this mist. Their attacks did not penetrate but instead, strengthened the power of the Icy Barrier. The barrier of icy wind made him invulnerable in that instant, and feed on the power exerted by these two fighters, turning the power of their blows, into it's own power. The Creation of the barrier sent out a freezing force, that not only collided with an nullfied their attacks but froze Ryu, for his trouble and sent him flying out of the radius of the Globes creation.

The force of the Snow Globe, also sent Sandy Flying 6 meters in the opposite direction. However, Sandy had managed escape being frozen . As she landed she looked over to see Ryu was frozen, at least for the moment and quickly ran over to towards him, to defend him while he quickly thawed out. Zorak, stood there in the globe of icy wind that spread in a 6 meter radius around him and then moved his covering from his face, to reveal a smile as he went to place his NINA mask on his face. With the covering removed, an Ice like skin would be reveal, with ice like canines, protruding through his smile. "Now the fun starts." Zorak chuckled.


((OOC: Jutsu Uses, is one that is on site. made the fortitude save, with Ryu having 14 Fortitude. If that is incorrect, please let me know so I can make the appropriate changes. ))

[Ryutatsu "Sakurai Sword"]

Ryutatsu had that instant of surprise as the man somehow managed three words and a counter attack that broke through an attack designed to take out even the best sowrdsman or ninja in less than a instant. There shouldn't have been time to think but this man was apparently fast enough. That was another nugget of information in addition to favoring ice as Ryutatsu flew back and ice coated him. He was being frozen by the counter attack.

But that lasted only for a moment as Ryutatsu's natural abilities with lightning surged forth and flood the ice exploding it into shards. And while the Snow globe or whatever may have countered the physical blows of his sword it shouldn't have stopped the parts of the attack that would have bypassed it completely. The lightning should have still struck home on Zorak, and it didn't that was interesting as well. Well they knew one ability of this six eye wearer. Five more to find out, and each one has a reset time. He was frozen for a time but the ice could only hold him for so long. The ice while not melting the ice still did damage to it. Eventually though the ice would still shatter as it wasn't as powerful as he. 

Ryutatsu took very little actual damage, the damage was more to his pride than anything now that he was soaked with ice water and ice shards. Living in the mountains of his land he was able to handle the chill his body now had. He took a moment more to catch his breath as he assessed once more. "Don't worry about me, keep him on the fence. That Ice should break eventually with your strength. Giving him time is a mistake. "

Best counter for ice was fire based or heat based attacks. But failing that Lightning is a good second as the water that make up ice can be used to conduct. But so far his lightning has been ineffective. Was that the work of his NINA? Ryutatsu's eyes flicked to the other guard person. Interesting, ice man and a big guy. 

[Madame Loki]

Zorak chuckled as he heard Ryu, "Time... time is relative." Sandy looked at Zorak and then charged towards him at Ryu's command. Ryu still had no issued any of her Eye commands so she would have to make due with her base abilities and her fighting skills. As she charged in Zorak placed the Mask on his face. As the mask was placed on him a surge of energy blew through the area. As Sandy came up to the globe of snow, she noticed that she could pass through it easily if she had the mind to. This move was an odd one to her. The Globe was physical yet not. There was no time to think, she'll just use sound to destroy.

Sandy stopped just shy of the Globe, just as Zorak put on his mask. She then began to make a series of strange sounds. As she made the sound impact after impact, of sonic energy. The Globe would begin to crack and a voice echoed through the globe, "Stop." As the words left Zorak's mouth Sandy was frozen in place. It was not frost, it was not paralyses. Her time was simply stopped. The Snow Globe engulfed, her and then moments later she was blasted out of it, and sent sliding, next to Ryu. She was badly beaten, more so then what should have been possible in that instant. She gripped her side, as she slowly stood up, next to the still frozen Ryu.

The Snow Globe, then faded from around Zorak. He didn't feel he needed it anymore. "Give up Boy. This fight is finished." Zorak Through his mask, as he walked towards Ryu's Location. Grove was still in position, waiting for Ryu to give the command. Though she was getting rather antsy just watching the scene unfold from her perch.