the good life [private]

[Naoki]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/34g543t.png); width:494px; height:313px; border-top:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-left:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-right:2px solid #f7f1e1;]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/35b8jnp.png); width:494px; border:2px solid #f7f1e1;] [enter] It was actually a pretty damn nice day out, the sun was shining for once and it was warm out. Naoki was actually a little dressed down because of this, as he didn’t want to burn up in his usual suit. Still he had on a long sleeved black dress shirt and dress pants and dress shoes, but he didn’t have his suit’s jacket on or his top hat. Curly ear length dark brown hair wasn’t covered today, and it looked as neatly taken care of as ever. As usual his bright golden eyes stood out on naturally tanned skin, giving the classy young man an almost exotic look. There were two flowers on his neck near the base of his shirt on opposite sides near his shoulders as well, literally growing out of his skin. And because of them, ten butterflies flew around him, occasionally returning to the flowers to drink the nectar. The genjutsu master was choosing to spend this fine day in the park, where all of the plants were alive and well thanks to it being the middle of the summer. They got plenty of water thanks to the humid environment as well, so they were all relatively healthy. Sometimes a mist would roll in and deny them sunlight, but they seemed to manage okay. It was actually pretty common for Naoki to take walks like this, they helped him clear his mind. The young man was such a perfectionist that he had to try damned hard to convince himself that he was perfect, that there wasn’t a damned thing wrong with him. He took time like this to just bundle up all his flaws and shove them to the back of his mind, locked away where they belonged. Naoki had damn near made this a ritual with how much he did it, taking walks to get everything sorted within his head. Because not only did everything have to be organized in the physical world, it did in his mental one as well. The brunette never gave himself any slack with this either, he was so harsh in beating himself up over all his flaws. And yet he would completely deny that he had any to someone else. It was a very self-destructive system, but he felt as if it was necessary.

[Mist]

It was a nice day outside as one could easily tell by the bright sun. The light beamed down on the lands of kirigakure. Kirigakure was truly unique. Even when the sun is bright and shining the land would still be filled with blankets of mists and fogs. Usually its not supposed to be that way. The mists in this land don’t seem to follow that rule of nature it would seem. Why would they. The land was so abundant with water that this place evaporates, rains and practically breathes water.

The mist seemed quite nice and in some parts thicker and some parts thinner. One person wanted to take advantage. Though he wanted to hurry quickly as mist tends to move along its own path and will be gone before he knew it. A boy in his mid teens looked around in his closet for something. Finally finding a slate blue hooded cloak. It was a bit humid out today but he would rather wear this than anything else.

Putting on the cloak he decided it was time for a walk out. Walking outside of his home complex and out into the streets of the shinobi village. The cloak hiding his visage. The boy was very particular apart this actually. Should one actually try and look at his face in the cloak they would stare at a person with light slate powder blue skin, shark like eyes and teeth. Being half shark brought attention to himself and he much would rather hide it.

The boy has been working on being more open and not hiding his true self. While this may not seem like it this was actually progress. A few months back he would just sit in his house and only come out super early in the morning when hardly anybody was out. It was later on in the day and bright out as well. Even with a cloak this was still a step forward with him. Eventually he would come to terms with himself and hopefully not care if others saw him as a shark. The boy walked randomly around the village. He was already acquainted with many of the streets and knew the map of the village quite well or at least he was getting better with it now that he was going out more.


Eventually he came to one of the few parts that this district has. Somebody else was already there. He stopped freezing up. Maybe I should go….No I’m gonna stay here to test my will. I have to do this he began to take small steps into the park. He was walking towards the other person but axtually for aspot past him. He just wanted to practice walking past and being near people. He wasn’t aware of it but his slow way of walking made him look rather like a suspicious person especially while paired with the slate blue cloak he was wearing that hid face. Each slow step seeming more ominous then the last. the only thing that can be seen through the cloaks hood were amber dots which were actually his eye color.

[Naoki]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/34g543t.png); width:494px; height:313px; border-top:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-left:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-right:2px solid #f7f1e1;]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/35b8jnp.png); width:494px; border:2px solid #f7f1e1;] Truth be told, Naoki was completely fine with ignoring the living hell out of others, it was what he usually did. To just not pay them any mind whatsoever and continue on his way, it was very rare that he actually initiated an interaction with another. Unless they needed help or were doing something they shouldn’t be, of course. However, at the moment he was working at reinforcing those barriers he kept up, and during the process itself they were weakened. Normally he wouldn’t have given the hooded boy walking towards him a second thought, not really even giving a damn about how shady the guy looked. What he did give a damn about was that this kid distracted him, a frown, almost a scowl pulling down at the corners of his lips. His own golden eyes narrowed at the ones of a similar color that he could just barely see beneath the hood, as well. For Naoki to keep up his perfect façade, he needed time to himself so he could concentrate and bundle up all his mental flaws and shove them to the back of his mind. That was exactly what he had been doing here at the park, but then this kid had to come and interrupt him. The audacity the other must have. Really not giving a damn about the consequences of his rash decision at the moment, his hands moved in front of him and were suddenly forming a flurry of seals. Literally one second later his genjutsu came into effect, making the boy he targeted think that the ground opened up for a moment under the right foot, then close to trap it. Of course the ground never actually moved, but that leg should still be rendered useless since the other should think it stuck. “What the hell’s your problem?” Naoki inquired with an accusing glare, crossing his arms over his chest as he stood there. It was clear that he wanted an answer, his anger flaring so easily now that this boy had interrupted his little ritual. And even though he had overreacted and this guy hadn’t even done anything wrong and he was being a complete hypocrite, he didn’t care. Not a single fuck was given that day.

SPOILER: Click to show

Magen: Daichi Fusen (Demonic Illusion: Ground Slip)
Rank: "C" Rank
Skill: Genjutsu
Effect: Causes the opponent to believe that a part of their leg is caught within the ground.
Special: "Handseals"
Drawback: The effect is only illusionary, meaning that it does nothing to the opponent if they break the illusion.
Description: Gathering chakra via use of handseals, the shinobi releases this chakra to attack the opponent's brain. The brain, thus affected, will cause an illusion within the mind stimulating the senses of touch, sound, and sight. Within the opponent's vision, a small portion of the ground will gave way underneath either their right of left foot, causing them to lose their balance slightly. They will then find that the ground is seemingly closed again, except now their foot is caught within the ground. Unless dispelled, they become unable to move away from that spot.
Limit: Must know Phantasm Perception

[Mist]

The boy kept walking alone through the park. He saw a bench about eight to fifteen feet away from the other person. The cloaked boy walked towards the bench but kept his path still. Intending to just walk past the other person. His eyes looked at the other person in the park. He wasn’t sure what he was doing. He knew that it wasn’t his business however so he wanted to be respectful and not think about it. What he did think about was getting a better view of the guy as he eventually walked closer to the bench past the guy.

The first was the most obvious was that he was male. He seemed quite young but somehow not in his twenties. So perhaps he was about two to four years older than Tsuyu than? Somewhere around the upper teens. He tried not to overtly stare at the teen as that wouldn’t have been very polite. Keeping the bench in mind and in sight. From what he could see from the general view was that the guy had a dark tan skin and brown hair. Tsuyu himself really didn’t think much about his appearance really.

For the general world his blue pigmented skin was irregular so anything not blue, red, green or other vibrant colors for skin was normal enough. He always wanted a skin color that wasn’t blue. Tsuyu himself never asking or wanting to be a part of the hoshigaki clan. During his advances in accepting his heritage he was starting to learn to appreciate himself. It just takes take to erase the old self and way of thinking really.

He was starting to feel bad about himself. Now he really wanted to sit on that bench and think things through. He felt something odd however which stopped him. It was his right foot and he looked down. The ground opened up and started to trap his foot. What’s going on. Why is ths?. He knelt his other knee down to the ground trying to free his foot. He didn’t know what was going on he just wanted to try and correct this.

The only thing he knew now was that he heard the words of the other guy talking to him. Now standing looking at him.Wha? his pupils shaking as he was taking everything in. The guy sounded angry. Why would he be unless.Is he the one who did this?? B-but why? I’ve done nothing. Did he see through my hood. Is he like the rest who see me as a monster? He wanted to be more open so people like this who didn’t see him as a person wouldn’t bother him.

He wasn’t ready for confrontation. His eyes started to water.”I’m sorry. I didn’t mean anything. I just wanted to walk though. I’m sorry” he voice sounded disturbed, sad and like the victim of tragedy. He kept trying to free his foot. Move around for better attempts. He faced the other guys.till trying to free his foot his hood fell back behind his head without him noticing. Revealing powder blue skin, dark blue hair and tears strolling down his cheeks ”I’m sorry. I didn’t mean for my appearance to bother you.” referring to his shark like image. His sad eyes staring at the other boys eyes begging for forgiveness.

[Naoki]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/34g543t.png); width:494px; height:313px; border-top:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-left:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-right:2px solid #f7f1e1;]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/35b8jnp.png); width:494px; border:2px solid #f7f1e1;] Okay, maybe Naoki was starting to feel a little guilty for what he had done when he heard how broken up the kid sounded, when he saw tears streaming down. His anger seemed to drop quickly as he took in the pathetic state of the boy before him, now feeling pity more than anything. Before he uttered a single word he dispelled the genjutsu, because the younger one didn’t even appear to be capable of getting out of it. He wasn’t at all fazed about the abnormal appearance of this teen, honestly not caring. “Get up,” he huffed, annoyance still laced into his voice, but it didn’t sound nearly as angry as it had previously. And even though Naoki was feeling guilty about making the other cry, he wasn’t about to apologize. Admitting that he was in the wrong really wasn’t his thing. “It isn’t your appearance that bothers me, it’s just your presence,” the brunette admitted as he rubbed the bridge of his nose, trying damned hard to stave off his frustration with all of this. Still he wasn’t happy about his little ritual being interrupted, but he was trying to hide it because it was clear that the other couldn’t handle his anger. It really wouldn’t have mattered who it was, his reaction still would have been the same. What the boy looked like had absolutely nothing to do with it. “Why did you have to walk by me anyway? This park’s plenty big enough for you to have taken another route,” Naoki grumbled as he shifted his weight and looked off to the side a moment, trying to put the blame of his little outburst on the kid. Because it was never his fault. Perfect people didn’t make mistakes.

[Mist]

Tsuyu really wasn’t sure of what to do now. What the other boy was going to do. Or what was going to come after this. This scenario he didn’t really like. He stared at him wanting this to all be over and not have happened at all. Rather suddenly he felt relief on his foot. Tsuyu looked down to find that his foot was normal now. So it was definitely this other guy who did it than. He checked himself and everything was fine. No scratches no pain, nothing.

The same was with the ground. The grass the dirt everything remained intact as if untouched. No dirt was on him either. What exactly did he do? The boy wasn’t exactly sure. He felt like he knew what this was like heard about something like this. Perhaps the concept? But he was too emotionally conflicted to think about that right now. His tears started to stop coming out of his eyes. Though the ones on his cheek still rolled down.

The other boy telling him to get up. He still sounded angry not as much as before. He didn’t even know why this was going like this. He tried to wipe the tears off the his left arm and stood up at the boys request. He took a few steps back to be cautionary as he felt like the boy might try something again. The other boy confused him as well. What did he mean it wasn’t his appearance but presence? Did that mean he didn’t mind him being half shark but didn’t want to be near a shark?

Or did he just want to be alone and not near anybody? He wasn’t really sure. He breathed in and out trying to calm himself and sniffled. The shark boy attempting to clean out his tear filled eyes again. The answer was slightly confirmed when the brown haired boy once more. Asking the blue boy why he was walking near him clarifying that the park was big enough for him to go elsewhere. It is true the park was had enough space.

Tsuyu point behind him at the bench. It was in a straight line away around fifteen feet. “I just wanted to sit down and think about things. That was the closet bench I could see” he explained. The logic was valid as the closest other benches were either clear on the other sides of the park. The park was spacious but this particular park wasn’t all that big entirely. In order for Tsuyu to reach the bench he had to have walked past the boy to get to it.

[Naoki]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/34g543t.png); width:494px; height:313px; border-top:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-left:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-right:2px solid #f7f1e1;]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/35b8jnp.png); width:494px; border:2px solid #f7f1e1;] Naoki turned to look behind him when the other pointed, golden eyes blinking when they landed on the bench as he listened to those words. So this kid actually had a completely valid reason to be here, he was just being a complete asshole. It wasn’t the first time he had lashed out like this, and it certainly wouldn’t be the last time either. And while he knew he had made a mistake, he absolutely refused to admit it. He refused to give the other a much deserved apology. “Yeah, that’s why I came here too,” he admitted quietly, sighing as he looked back to the other. Wasn’t he feeling like a dick, now? This boy just came here to be alone, just like him. The only mistake the other made was getting too close to him, interrupting his self-destructive process. So instead of taking out all of his pent up anger on himself as usual, he slipped up and targeted some random person instead. It certainly wasn’t befitting of a perfect person, and he felt as if he had to make up for it. The genjutsu master still remained silent for a few seconds, rubbing the back of the neck as he tried to think of how the hell to fix this mess. “Look, I… You just caught me at a bad time, is all. I promise I don’t usually attack everyone who walks by,” Naoki said as he looked into amber eyes, which were a similar color to his own golden orbs. He didn’t want the other to think badly of him, he didn’t want anyone to. Although he had a feeling that he just made the chances of this boy seeing him in a good light very slim. “I’m Naoki,” he introduced himself with a nod and forced smile, not bothering to shaking hands as he usually would because it was clear the other was sort of scared of him at the moment.

[Mist]

This was somewhat different. The blue boy felt like he didn’t know what to do. Then again it’s been like this ever since the other boy confronted the shark boy . For now he was just trying to calm himself down from earlier. Continuing to use the breathing technique to calm himself. A few sniffles here and there. His tear ducts no longer watering. He was starting to feel in much better emotional shape than he was a few moments ago. He probably looked pathetic though.

What did he mean that’s why he came here? He said that not long after Tsuyu had stated that he just wanted to sit on the bench to think. Is that what he meant? That wasn’t why he necessarily came to the park. He came to the park by chance, but just as he arrived he figured he might as well use the bench just to think. Some mistake that turned out to be choosing to go visit the park. Well everything done and happened now despite that he hadn’t wanted this at all.

He stared at the other boy. He couldn’t really get a glimpse of his personality at all. Well it wasn’t like you could always do that. But generally you could tell how a person might be by how they acted, portrayed themselves, dressed. The boy in front of him was just a bit different and the blue boy couldn’t gather any info from the general means. It wasn’t a completely accurate way anyways. You could only tell so much from a general appearance like 10% maybe.

What Tsuyu has been able to gather thus far however is that he cane here to be alone. He promised that he usually doesn’t attack people. If that was true why was Tsuyu the exception? He could’ve always waited for him to pass by so he could have been alone again. He just really didn’t feel comfortable like this. He only wanted to test himself but this was simply too much.”I’m Tsuyu. I get the feeling you don’t want me here so I'll leave” he said with sadness still in his voice.

The shark boy sniffled once more while drying the last of his tears and started to walk back the way he came which was past naoki once again. His foot felt weird however. It started to hurt then he realized something. My foot fell asleep. it indeed fell quite asleep so much it tinged with a stiff feeling. Tsuyu started to trip towards Naoki. With his foot asleep and his mind still in a emotion sir he didn’t have the time for basic reflexes to catch himself.

[Naoki]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/34g543t.png); width:494px; height:313px; border-top:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-left:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-right:2px solid #f7f1e1;]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/35b8jnp.png); width:494px; border:2px solid #f7f1e1;] Naoki couldn’t build up the nerve to say something when that still sad voice announced departure; he could only look down to the ground in shame. He had really fucked this up, it seemed. With how he liked to act like he was perfect so much, this certainly didn’t sit well with him. Not at all. Out of the corner of his eye he caught onto sudden movement, and he automatically brought up his hands to catch the smaller body falling towards him. Golden eyes blinked as he looked down at the boy, and he helped the other stand upright again. “Tsuyu, I… You…” The brunette was clearly struggling to come up with something to say, people skills sure as hell weren’t his strong point. “You don’t have to go, you have as much right as I do to be here,” he muttered as he took a step back, once Tsuyu was steady again. Taking a moment to look the boy over, he couldn’t help but sigh as he shifted his weight uncomfortably. It was kind of strange to think that a boy could be broken so easily, none of it sat well with him for a moment. Not that the genjutsu master would ever admit it, but his heart beat increased a little. Sure he normally liked to help people, but this was a little different. Maybe it was just because this boy seemed to be particularly helpless, at least that was what he told himself. “There must be something I can do to make it up to you,” Naoki offered as he looked into eyes so similar to his own golden orbs, wanting this boy to tell him what he could do to help cure him of this guilty feeling. He had made the kid cry, after all.

[Mist]

The blue boy began to fall surely thinking he would hit the ground in no time. However something rather unexpected happened in the process. The other boy Naoki helped catch him and prevented him from hitting the ground. This surprises him as Naoki was just the same person who attacked him. Now he was helping him out however. It didn’t make any sense to him. He wasn’t quite sure why an previous attacker would be helping him right now. Perhaps he wasn’t lying when he said he doesn’t usually attack people.

Naoki had helped catch him and stand once more. Tsuyu not noticing that during the process that somehow his mist shinobi headband slipped off of him and landed on the ground. He doesn’t usually like wearing it on his forehead so he wears it on other places. The Hoshigaki now standing upright again looked at Naoki.”Thank you.” he said politely wanting to just give thanks to the person he had helped him.

Though this technically didn’t wash away the awkwardness between the two. Nor did that erase the fact between the two had a uneasy beginning. Naoki seemed to have noticed this between the two as he said his name. He was rather struggling on what to say. The blue boy just stood there waiting and wondering what Naoki had to say. He wasn’t really sure why but he felt compelled to listen to the brown haired boy. Listening to Naoki that Tsuyu had every right there somehow lifted the Hoshigaki’s spirits.

Not once in his life has he heard that a stranger said that he had the right to be in the same place as him. For most of his life people always say him as different but this was like a form of acceptance. Another tear in his eyes mounded up . Though this was mostly because he was happy. In regards to himself Tsuyu was starting to feel better. The horrible feeling from earlier now washing away with hearing those words. His foot now feeling fine as well.

Naoki had taken a step back once Tsuyu was standing securely. The older boy even asked if there was anything he could do to make it up. He wiped off the new tears out of his eyes. “I’m sorry. I just never heard such words of kindness from a stranger.” he said softly to reassure Naoki that this time he hadn’t done anything wrong to cause these tears.”Though I cant honestly think of what you can do for me” he said. The boy started to smile a bit as he felt in better spirits.

[Naoki]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/34g543t.png); width:494px; height:313px; border-top:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-left:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-right:2px solid #f7f1e1;]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/35b8jnp.png); width:494px; border:2px solid #f7f1e1;] Golden eyes blinked when they saw the headband fall to the ground, honestly not having expected this kid to be a ninja. Tsuyu certainly didn’t seem like the type who could handle it, that was for damn sure. If this kid could be broken down into tears so easily in friendly territory, he couldn’t even imagine what the other must be like on the battle field. It was probably only a matter of time until the timid young lad got killed, he couldn’t help but think. Another pang of guilt hit him when he saw tears welling up in those amber eyes again, figuring that he probably said the wrong thing. He usually did, as his people skills were atrocious and he knew it. But as he heard an apology and a mention of him being kind, he shifted uneasily and looked off to the side for a moment. “It’s nothing,” he muttered, barely managing to look back at the other. In less than five minutes he made this kid cry twice, each for entirely opposite reasons. Naoki could barely hold his ground in normal interaction with others, much less whatever the hell this was. Honestly, the genjutsu master was glad for his dark skin sometimes, like at that very moment when the light embarrassed flush of his cheeks was masked a little by his naturally dark tone. It was only there for a few short seconds too, before he bent down to pick up the fallen headband and recomposed himself. “Maybe I could help you with a mission or something? I mean, I’m sure you could handle it yourself, it’s just…” Naoki trailed off, almost having said that it looked like the other couldn’t handle it. “It’s just that I want to help you out somehow,” he quickly covered for himself, holding the headband that he picked up for Tsuyu to take. His own headband was in a long pants pocket at the moment, hidden from view because he considered himself off duty during his little walk.

[Mist]

The hoshigaki was glad that the older teen wanted to help him. He already felt like a bit useless after the attack and falling over. He tried to think of anything but he really just couldn’t think of anything for the brown haired boy. Tsuyu himself doesn’t really do much besides things at his home and jutsu training. Simple chores weren’t good enough and he wasn’t sure how Naoki could help with jutsu training. Perhaps he can think of one if they talk more or Tsuyu could call for a favor some other time.

He was just glad that he had heard such nice words from Naoki after all. Perhaps he really meant all the things after all. Especially that he doesn’t usually attack random people. He could be a nice person or have some form of kindness inside of him. It was just the beginning part of their encounter is what threw both of them off and their expectations of the other as well. Maybe I should try and get to know him. Or maybe I should see if he really that bad after all the shark boy questioned to himself.

Naoki saying that the words he said were ”nothing” having a sense of humbleness to it. Little by little he was starting to change his view of the boy who had previously attacked him. Now in his attempts to make up for what he had done the Hoshigaki could see the better side of him. It was a nice thing to know that everybody had a sense of kindness in them even after what had happened. So perhaps he could learn to let what happened earlier go.

The older teen knelt over to the ground to pick something up. Naoki said that he could help out with a mission. Mission? I never mentioned that I was a shinobi. a bit surprised him comment to him about mission work. Tsuyu had not noticed at all that he had dropped his headband. Then seeing what he had picked up a mist ninja headband. Feeling his sides within the cloak to feel that they weren’t tied onto his leg pants.

Now understanding what he was talking about. Could Naoki really help though? He didn’t know if Naoki could. The question in his mind was if Naoki was a shinobi of the village or not. He thought about back to when his foot was suddenly caught in a technique and then released. Due to that Naoki must have been. “Well I guess after that ninjutsu of you’re you could be of some help.” referencing the technique from before.”But only people in a team can work together.” this time referencing mist village code as he often reads it. Not sure of what Naoki would say to this.

[Naoki]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/34g543t.png); width:494px; height:313px; border-top:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-left:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-right:2px solid #f7f1e1;]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/35b8jnp.png); width:494px; border:2px solid #f7f1e1;] For a moment, a confused expression passed the brunette’s features when the other mentioned a ninjutsu, but it was soon replaced by a knowing smile. Naoki didn’t actually know much ninjutsu, but he was perfectly fine with not correcting the boy. Tsuyu could go ahead and think that he knew the earth release or whatever. “I can promise you that I won’t get in the way, if that’s what you’re worried about,” he assured the other, not saying a damned word about how the other didn’t even seemed to be fit to be a shinobi at the moment. And he even moved to retrieve his own headband from his pocket, as if to prove that he was also a ninja of this village, and he tied it around his forehead and brown locks covered quite a bit of the metal plate and black sash. A quiet, thoughtful hum was emitted as he thought about that next part for a moment, having honestly forgotten that it was against the rules to go on missions while not on a team together. Never had the genjutsu master been on missions with others, he had been alone since he first became a genin years ago. “Well,” he started slowly, tugging at the bottom hem of his dress shirt almost nervously as he continued, “I suppose we could just register as a team, then? I mean, unless you’re already on one, or you don’t want to.” Naoki shifted uncomfortably where he stood, honestly not liking to put himself out there like this. Failure and rejection were things that he absolutely hated, and if this kid didn’t give him the chance to redeem himself, he would probably be beating himself up over it for a few days. “I understand if you don’t want anything to do with me, after how I acted,” he muttered as he continued to fiddle with his shirt, saying every nice thing he could without actually apologizing. Because the two little words ‘I’m sorry’ were damn near impossible to say for him.

[Mist]

There was something off about this conversation. The hoshigaki couldn’t quite pin point it. It just suddenly dawned on him was odd. He didn’t even know why the feeling or thought was put into motion. But now that he was thinking about it he could definitely feel it between the two. What was it though? If this continued along he might discover what he was feeling to be odd. He just stood there waiting for Naoki to finally comment.

Naoki stating that his help wouldn’t be a problem. He than promptly revealed that he too had a mist ninja forehead band as well. He event went to put it on his forehead. Tsuyu was never really concerned if he would get in the way. He only wanted to know if he would a true shinobi to make things fit together. As non ninja villagers couldn’t really work together with shinobi on missions. This however showed that both of them were indeed shinobi and could work together should they both accept.

Naoki tried to talk to the blue shark boy that they could always form a team together since that’s the way the would have to work together. It was the truth after all. But when Naoki said unless he had a team he mentally chuckled at this. He used to have a team but it somehow drifted apart. It was because they just stopped meeting together and just decided it was better to split up.

Then Naoki started saying that he didn’t have to if he didn’t want to. It was a reference of what had happened from the attack earlier. A feeling had rushed by Tsuyu just now. There it was again that odd feeling from before. It came by when Naoki keep mentioning that Tsuyu didn’t have to if he doesn’t want to. It was something in his voice that caused this feeling. What was this. It sounded like a familiar emotion.

The boy realized it was the emotion was that he was longing for forgiveness. Was this it? Why couldn’t just say he was sorry….unless he has too much pride maybe?? That might be it but I have no proof other than the fact he wants to make up for it. So it has to be.” The shark boy grew a wide smiled on his face and walked closer to naoki and gave him a bug hug. A ressuring hug that everything was alright. “Apology accepted.” he just said believing this was what Naoki wanted. ’So yeah we can be a team. It will be a chance to know each other better” he said and a few moments later he let go.

[Naoki]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/34g543t.png); width:494px; height:313px; border-top:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-left:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-right:2px solid #f7f1e1;]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/35b8jnp.png); width:494px; border:2px solid #f7f1e1;] Tensing right the hell up when he felt arms wrap around him, Naoki was stiff as a board and didn’t move a muscle for a few seconds. He wasn’t used to dealing with people even verbally, much less physically. The last time someone hugged him like this was… He didn’t even remember. The older teen couldn’t build up the nerve to push away or say anything about it, heart pounding away in his chest as his mind practically stopped on him for a few seconds. Not until he was released did his golden eyes blink and he relaxed a little, but his heart was still pounding away. The brunette couldn’t help but feel a little nervous, uneasy, and maybe a little something else that he wouldn’t even allow himself to think about. “Uhm, y-yeah,” he mentally cursed himself when that stutter slipped past his lips, hating how his nervousness was showing. But he was quick to shake his head and shift his weight, trying to regain his composure quickly. Most people probably wouldn’t mind a hug, the genjutsu master simply couldn’t deal with such contact. He was so used to closing himself off from everyone in every way possible, and here this kid seemed to bypass the high and fortified walls he kept around himself so easily. “Alright, good. So we should meet up at the Mizukage’s tower? When will you have time for it?” Naoki was talking a little fast, barely managing to keep eye contact. He was nervous, there was no doubt about that. And maybe he was rushing a little to get going so he’d have something to think about, to distract himself.

[Mist]

The hoshigaki stood there with the smile. He no longer felt the crummy feelings from earlier. They seemed to have faded away as the time with Naoki was spent. It didn’t mean they were friends or anything. It was just an accident, a misunderstanding and something that really should be let go. Tsuyu didn’t want to bottle up bad things in his mind anymore. He wanted to learn to let things go in order to be a freer self.

He was sure if this was his train of thought then things will surely change for him. It wouldn’t only affect him but others as well. The boy could have just simply walked away from Naoki not wanting to hear any apology after what he did. He could have done that if he wanted. But he didn’t want to as that wouldn’t feel like the best answer. Good things always happen if you try to hear things out or trying to resolve an issue.

Since the Hoshigaki has stayed to find things out he learned a few things. One it was just a mistake on the others fault, two Naoki felt bad about it and wanted to apologize, three Naoki isn’t that bad if he wanted to make up for it after all. He might not have apologized directly but this was good enough for him for now. Maybe he can work on that later if they truly do form a team together.

While he was hugging Naoki he could feel his heartbeat. It was a bit fast. Was it simply because of the whole scenario that happened? Or was it he happy that Tsuyu forgave him or previously nervous thinking he wouldn’t be forgiven? Oh well. The brown haired boy could only muster up a “yeah” in response to the Hoshigaki’s hug forgiving.“Yeah I guess we should go to the Mizukage tower.” he said thinking about them being a more direct team.

If they were a team they should know a bit about each other. Bt Naoki seemed just as reclusive as Tsuyu used to be or partially still is. The blue boy summoned up the courage to be a little more out there. Grabbing Naoki’s hand and shaking it. “We’ll need a more proper introduction then. I’m Tsuyu Hoshigaki of the shark clan. I specialize in water, mastered earth style and learning crystal style at the moment.” he said believing that to be sufficient information. The boy kept holding his hand and waited for Naoki’s response after wards he would say ”We should get going to the tower. I know the mizukage” and attempt to drag Naoki there by holding his hand.”I know the best shortcuts in the Martial district.” he would say.

[Naoki]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/34g543t.png); width:494px; height:313px; border-top:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-left:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-right:2px solid #f7f1e1;]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/35b8jnp.png); width:494px; border:2px solid #f7f1e1;] Naoki didn’t react at first when his hand was grabbed, not having expected it. Soon enough he returned the blue boy’s shake, and he had planned on it being quick before they withdrew, like a normal handshake. But Tsuyu wasn’t letting go, and he couldn’t build up the nerve to say anything about it at first. He tried to distract himself by listening to the other, shifting a little uncomfortably because of how long they were touching. It was a very simple contact, but still it was too much for the brunette. “I’m Naoki Sato, of the Kitateha clan. I’ve mastered phantasm perception and specialize in support,” he muttered quietly, still not at ease with this whole situation. Especially when the younger one started to drag him around, still holding his hand. No, no, no- This wasn’t right. His heart rate was still way up there, a mixture of fear and nervousness coursing through him. It wasn’t normal for guys to hold hand like this, right? What if someone saw them? If he was a perfect person, he wouldn’t be doing something like this. He couldn’t… Shouldn’t… The genjutsu master was quick to yank his hand away from Tsuyu once he sort of got a hold of his panicking mind, and he didn’t even realize he was trembling a little until then, either. “I-I… Uhm… I’ll just follow you,” he said with an uneasy voice, a hint of his fear laced into the words at first before he quickly covered it up. It was common for Naoki to get panic attacks like this when he was close to another male like this, because he was afraid of doing anything ‘gay’ himself even if he was attracted to men. It wasn’t what the perfect person that he strived to be would do. Desperately he was trying to calm himself down, quickly masking the external signs of his little episode, like the trembling. Even when he appeared to be calm again on the outside, his mind was still haywire and he struggled to get it all under control again. “So you know the Mizukage, huh?” Naoki asked absently, trying to make sure the subject stayed away from himself for a little bit.

[Mist]

Tsuyu went along the streets dragging along the older boy behind him as if he always does this. So casual and carefree. He was actually just clueless to what was going on. Had he pay attention more he would’ve noticed the nervousness in Naoki’s face, his trembling hand, the even the fast pulse oh his racing nervous blood in the brown haired boys hand. But being as oblivious as he was and the fact he didn’t know Naoki at all yet. He noticed nothing.

All he could think about was just leading Naoki the shorter way to the Mizukage’s tower. It’s been quite some time since he’s been there. Since the last mission he has done. Thinking about it has been even longer since he has either seen or heard from the Mizukage. Even though she is quite capable herself he was still concerned. There was no doubt about her strength. He was watched her tear through a pirate ship as if it wear just stepping on ants.

In fact in some ways she did step on them too not literally but metaphorically speaking. What he was wondering was the fact that the Mizukage was still a child herself. It must be more lonely for her to be in such a position without much contact from others. Especially after her most beloved person, the previous Mizukage has disappeared since then. He contemplated about telling this to Naoki. He didn’t want to give away too much information as he didn’t know the boy quite well yet.

The shark boy thought back in his head. He doesn’t ever recall hearing about it. He could easily ask Naoki about it. That wasn’t his style though. He would rather research about it first and then surprise the person with his knowledge about it. So he would have to make a trip to the library later. Conveniently in was also in the kage tower as well. So perhaps after forming a proper team he could go to the library. He had to research to do about some new jutsus he wanted to practice anyways.

Hmmm. Perception, perception, perception. That word sounded familiar. Why couldn’t he grasp that word yet? He knew it sounded familiar but he couldn’t remember it quite yet. He dug into his mind. Ok so he knew it was a jutsu back. Thinking backwards bringing his jutsu learning history back. 1 year ago he started genin. No recollection of perception, 2 years ago he was in the academy, no recollection. 3 years ago, still in academy wait this had to be where. Perception was…it was… a release!! No that’s not right…..it was a type…of…come on….Genjutsu!

Genjutsu of course. Now remembering his academy days learning about the three forms of jutsu ninjutsu, genjutsu and taijutsu. Genjutsu de never cared much for. For a particular reason. It made perfect sense however.”Genjutsu user huh? he said fitting the gears together.”That explains why the ground wasn’t disturbed or the fact no soil was on my shoe.” he said putting the pieces together he noticed earlier.”and why you’re also specialize in support right?” he questioned believing to hit the guess right on the mark.

Tsuyu only noticed minutes after Naoki yanked his hand away that he wasn’t dragging him anymore. He must have gotten too deep in thought too notice. He looked back. Not noticing any of the other boys nervousness at all.”Yeah I know the Mizukage. We were on the same genin team before she went up.” Referring to her becoming kage.”We did missions together. I even watched her destroy a pirate ship." Figuring that would be enough information for Naoki for the time being. He kept walking through the distract knowing his way. Not even the most stopped him from going towards the tower.”You sure you don’t want to hold my hand?” he asked out.”We could lose each other in this mist. Its perfectly normal for people to hold onto each other to get through the mist.” stating this while extending his hand out to the boy.

[Naoki]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/34g543t.png); width:494px; height:313px; border-top:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-left:2px solid #f7f1e1; border-right:2px solid #f7f1e1;]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=cellSpacing,0,bTable][atrb=style, background:url(http://i48.tinypic.com/35b8jnp.png); width:494px; border:2px solid #f7f1e1;] “Yeah, I’ve always been better at manipulating the brain than elements or my own body,” Naoki muttered when the other asked about him being a genjutsu user, honestly not minding if he shared this information. The only release he even had was sound, which still wasn’t technically an element. And then the clan he was a part of specialized in genjutsu as well, so it was certainly in his comfort zone. He never really did like direct combat, as it was. Being in the back and helping his allies by forcing illusions upon their foes was something he specialized in. It was actually a little impressive to hear that this kid had been on the same team as their kage, and he couldn’t help but think that maybe the little Mizukage had carried most of the weight. Tsuyu didn’t seem to be the type to even be able to handle the life of a shinobi, and he was aware that the kage was very capable of it. Hell, he wasn’t even surprised to hear that she had destroyed an entire ship. These thoughts helped distract him from the main issue he had been thinking about, at the very least. However, all those things he was trying to keep out of his mind were refreshed when Tsuyu offered a hand again. At first there was a lump in his throat and he couldn’t bring himself to utter a single word, that nervous feeling returning so easily. Naoki shook his head at the other before he could gather up the nerve to say anything, holding his right hand up to his chest as if protecting it. “No, it’s alright. I won’t lose you,” he promised with a deceivingly sturdy tone, faking calm so naturally because he was used to doing this. He was so used to pretending. Gesturing for Tsuyu to continue on, he dropped his hand back down to his side as he got ready to follow through the mist.

[Mist]

So then Naoki couldn’t do releases or taijutsu then? That was somewhat of an oddity. Or would the correct term be “somewhat a rarity”? Well either way most shinobi he has met varied in things they could do. He’s always met a person that could use either ninjutsu, taijutsu or medical jutsu. He couldn’t quite remember if he met anybody before Naoki that also liked to use Genjutsu.. Hmmm. Maybe Naoki was the first. After all it did take a certain mindset and personality and preference to use genjutsu.

Bur he hasn’t met anybody that couldn’t use releases or taijutsu styles. Noaki would be the first and only one so far. Releases came quite easy to him. Especially one that controlled the environment itself he could use quite well. He liked those ones as well.”So you use genjutsu and genjutsu alone?” he asked for reassurance.”I use pretty much any release style that uses the land itself. Well since I find releases easy it’s the same for you and genjutsu. As you said. Its why there are various ninja ways of operations.” he said making a mental note of this from now on.

He tried to think of jutsus that would help out between the two. After hearing Naoki said that he wouldn’t lose Tsuyu. He didn’t feel reassured by the answer. Tsuyu didn’t even see the stir of emotions conflicting the darker skinned boy nor his hesitation to the question. Personally he just wanted to show the way. Perhaps Naoki was too embarrassed from earlier to let Tsuyu do that. It must be it. That or maybe he was ashamed of touching the shark boy after the attack. The latter of the two sounding more like the believable reason to him.

He tried to think of other options.”I should have learned more jutsus. Like animal creations. That could have helped us not be separated.” he mumbled out. He did not a jutsu dealing with mud wolves but he would have to create mud first.Why have I not learned the mud spewing jutsu yet? questioning himself realizing it would’ve been useful now to know.”Most of my jutsu’s are based off of trapping and slowing things down. While theyre trapped then I use my offensive jutsus. Its my current battle strategy but I plan to broaden and change that.” he shared out to Naoki. Thinking that it might help for teamwork “Though they wont help us through this mist” he admitted as he guided the way through the misty streets.