Shinju Yuzuki

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Name: Shinju Yuzuki, “Maiden of the Moon”

Age: 22

Gender: Female

Village: Konoha

Ninja Rank: Jounin ANBU

Clan:

Yuzuki

Clan Description:

The Yuzuki clan is quite gifted. Anyone of this clan has exreme amounts of chakra along with the chakra control to handle it. This clan is very intelligent and can use their minds to do just about anything, such as tending to wounds by focusing great amounts of chakra to heal or moving objects mentally. Most people of this clan are quick to think, as well as quick to act. They have a slightly greater amount of speed than normal, and most are very tolerant to pain, but everyone has a limit. They also specialize in wind elements and have some control over it as well. The Yuzuki clan is most powerful at night. This is because the moon grants them more strength, speed, and chakra. The fuller the moon, the more powerful. In other words, on a new moon they aren't granted power at all, but on a full moon, they are twice as strong. With that said, members of the Yuzuki clan are usually weak in daylight. In the day, their power can range from that of a normal ninja to a lot weaker than the average ninja. The moon is their power source, therefore the sun drains them. The stronger the sunlight or higher the sun is in the sky, the weaker they are. On cloudy days, this might not have much an effect due to the clouds blocking most of the sunlight, but do note that radiation from the sun still exists.

This clan also passes down special weapons to the young elite of their ninja. Because earlier in history there was a dispute among the clan, it split up to different regions, and for each region, there was a special weapon. The dispute was over power, and how some of the Yuzuki clan believed that power was everything, while others believed they should focus on intelligence. Before this dispute became violent, members began to break off and move to different villages. This settled problems, but the different beliefs effected the split clan's strong points. Now, some of the clan is more about intelligence, while others seek to be more powerful.

Bloodline: Ayamugan (Psychic Eye)

Bloodline Description:

The Ayamugan has incredible vision and can find the smallest details. These highly sensative eyes, combined with the Yuzuki clan's mind reading gift, grant the user the user the ability to predict moves to an extent with their psychic abilities, making it so the user can see a move the opponent intends to use before they actually use it. On the other hand, if the opponent comes at the user recklessly and without thought, the user cannot make a full prediction and is likely to be hit anyways. This occurs when the opponent is fighting completely out of emotion or is disorderly, including the drunk and insane. Anyone wielding these eyes can also use extremely effective genjutus with various effects. Some Yuzuki may not be able to read minds completely, but they can use telepathy to communicate between minds. An opponent that is asleep is majorly vulnerable to the Ayamugan. The user can see the opponents dreams as well as their nightmares, making it easier to create more effective illusions against them.

Activation Chakra Cost: 75

Looks:

Shinju has light brown hair, with strands of red. It's a medium length, not too long. She is only about 5’ 6”. Naturally, her eyes are hazel, with tints of green. When her Ayamugan is activated, her eyes turn lavender. Either way, when light hits them, they shine brightly. She's normally seen with a blank or serious face, but she smiles occasionally. Shinju is very small and petite, almost like a doll. Her complexion is lighter than most, although she isn't pale. Shinju dresses casually, usually in comfortable clothing, but sometimes a kimono or dress. Her idea of attire is normally kapris and a shirt.

She isn't into the whole ninja look, but she gets by. Shinju doesn't care to wear her headband much, if it's not in her pack, it's around her waist. Her pouch of chosen weaponry is also at her waist, matching ninja sandals worn on her feet. On her back is her fan, strapped across her torso. Around her neck she wears a choker necklace, a heart locket in the center. It's was a gift given to her by her mother as a child, so she takes good care of it and doesn't wear it in battle often if possible. She also wears a cross necklace given to her by her old friend, Orochi Nara. He gave it to her shortly before he died, so she holds it dear to her, remembering him by it.



Personality:

Shinju is quite intelligent, though she has her moments. Normally, very shy and reserved. Since she isn't all that great with words, she's quiet. She doesn't speak much unless spoken to, but occasionally she'll try to spark a conversation. She has a good temperament, usually keeping calm. With that said, she usually stays cool, even when provoked. Although, if she's pushed far enough, she can have a nasty temper. Being very compassionate, she's kind to almost anyone. When friends or others close to her are put in danger, she will fight with all her heart.

Even though she can read one's thoughts, she'd rather get to know them personally. She's even more hesitant in using her abilities than speaking to someone, she feels it better that they open up to her. Her caring nature makes her easy to get along with, so it's hard to hate her. Shinju likes helping others in anyway she can. Even when she's treated disrespectfully, somehow she brings herself to remain kind. She's quite difficult to understand because how deep she thinks into things.

A lover of nature and art, she's usually outdoors. In her free time, she enjoys sketching and painting. It's not unusual to find her staring at plants or animals, her sketchbook and pencil in hand. Most people pass her, some stare at her in confusion. She likes to look at every little detail in everything, it makes her feel more aware of her surroundings and what inhabits them. Shinju takes great interest in the sky. In the day, she lays in the grass, watching the clouds as they pass her by. At night, she stares at the moon and stars. This may have to do with her clan and their beliefs, but she truly loves natural beauty.

Special Characteristics:

Being of the Yuzuki clan, she has high amounts of chakra as well as the chakra control to maintain it. Shinju can also read minds to a larger extent than most of her clan for unknown reasons. Also, through much meditation, she has trained her senses to be stronger, as well as strength. With that said, her hearing, sight, and sense of touch of slightly more sensitive than ordinary people. This has given her some communication with weary spirits, but she is still working on improving her abilities. In focusing completely on one of her six senses, she can increase the sensitivity of that one sense more than the others.

Elements: Wind and Earth (Sand)

Skills/Specialties:

Main: Ninjutsu/Genjutsu; Sub: Weaponry

Weapon:

Name: Lunar Fan

Description:

The Lunar Fan is quite large and takes a good amount of strength to wield. When closed, all that can be seen is its durable, steel, handles. Even closed, it can pose a threat. When fully opened, a waning crescent is placed at the left, full moon in the middle, and waxing crescent on the right. It glows brightly in the light, especially moonlight, when all else is dark. It is just one of the weapons passed down through the Yuzuki clan, only to be used by those with the potential to handle it. Shinju was given this fan by her great grandfather. He helped her train with it years before he passed, therefore she keeps him in mind while training and fighting. If it wasn’t for him, she wouldn’t be as strong as she is with her fan now.

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Jutsus

Kekkei Genkai:

Name: Ayamu Rimu no Jutsu (Nightmare)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 30
Damage: -
Element: -
With the Ayamugan activated, the user creates nightmare-like illusions only the opponent and user can sense (see, feel, hear, taste, smell). The user isn't effected my the nightmare due to the fact that the nightmare is based of the opponent's. Like most genjutsu, if the illusions seem realistic enough, the opponent may become unconcious or even die. Either way, it gives the user the advantage to attack.

Name: Nomu no Jutsu (Possessive Dream)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 35
Damage: -
Element: -
With the Ayamugan activated, the user may put the opponent into a sleep so he/she can possess the body while remaining in his/her own body, but the user can't move their own body until the jutsu is released. In possession of the body, the user can only manipulate the opponent's thoughts, sleeping or not. It's a basic jutsu for torturing the mind, mostly used for interrogation.

Name: Seishin Souran no Jutsu (Hypnosis)
Rank: C
Chakra Cost: 50
Damage: -
Element: -
With the Ayamugan activated, the user looks the opponent in the eyes, and in doing so, can manipulate the opponent's movements to an extent. In manipulation, the user can move the opponent as they move; monkey see, monkey do. This jutsu takes great concentration and meditation to perform. If the user becomes distracted or loses concentration, the opponent may be able to break free from the jutsu.

Clan Jutsus:

Name: Kaze Bakuha (Wind Blast)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 20
Damage: -
Element: Wind
Chakra is forced through the focused part of the body and released as as a blast of wind. This jutsu is mostly used for close combat, but can also be used to deflect some projectile attacks. It doesn't take up much chakra, but requires descent chakra contol.

Name: Boushi Kaze Bakuha (Spinning Wind Blast)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 25
Damage: -
Element: Wind
Chakra is forced through the focused part of the body and released as as blasts of wind. This jutsu is mostly used for close combat and can be used against mutiple enemies. It can also be used to deflect projectile attacks as well as provide as a temparary shield. It takes up quite a bit of chakra, and requires great chakra control.

Name: Toku Kage no Jutsu (Cloak)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 25
Damage: -
Element: -
Enable the user to hide within the shadows. This jutsu can only be effective when used in non-lit areas, therefore, it can't be used in daylight unless within the shadow of an object. It is a stealthy technique, and requires descent chakra control.

Name: Seishin Shouten no Jutsu (Meditation)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 25
Damage: -
Element: -
A type of meditation that completely clears the mind. Increases accuracy, reaction time, and slowly regenerates chakra.

Name: Seishin Chiyu no Jutsu (Ply)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 35
Damage: -
Element: -
The user focuses chakra to tend to wounds, though only minor. Healing is done mentally and spiritually, so extreme focus is needed to perform this jutsu.

Name: Kuuchuufuyou no Jutsu (Levitation)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 35
Damage: -
Element: -
Enables the user to levitate, or float. Takes amazing chakra control as well as focusing the mind and spirit, although it doesn't require too much chakra. If focus is broken, the jutsu ends.

Name: Seishin Tenkyo Tai no Jutsu (Teleknesis)
Rank: C
Chakra Cost: 40-59
Damage: -
Element: -
Enables the user to move objects with their mind. Takes amazing chakra control as well as focusing the mind and spirit, although it takes little chakra. When used to move heavier objects, the chakra cost increases.

Name: Seishin Seiryoku Hara no Jutsu (Forcefield)
Rank: C
Chakra Cost: 45
Damage: -
Element: -
The user foucuses mind and spiritual energy around the user like a shield. The shield deflects projectiles with a force like that used in Seishin Tenkyo Tai no Jutsu (Teleknesis). The forcefield doesn't provide much a defense against taijutsu, and can block few ninjutsu.

Basic:

Name: Kinobori no Waza (Act of Tree Climbing)
Rank: -
Type: Supplementary
Chakra Cost: -
Kinobori no Waza, the art of tree climbing serves a dual purpose. Taking part in Kinobori Shugyou (Tree Climbing Training) helps a ninja learn how to focus their chakra. It also teaches the ninja how to run up trees and walk on vertical walls. The training helps the ninja learn how to focus just the right amount of chakra to a particular part of their body. The amount needed to climb is small but it must be precise. The feet are regarded as the hardest location to master chakra focusing. So by gaining the art of this skill, the ninja will have any jutsu available (theoretically) because they will be able to focus their chakra as needed

Name: Bikou Ninjutsu (Shadowing Stealth Technique)
Rank: -
Type: Supplementary
Chakra Cost: -
Bikou Ninjutsu is the technique ninjas use to follow their targets covertly. The manner in which the ninja shadows their target can differ, from the basic hiding under a nearby object, to using a jutsu to turn oneself invisible. The skill and length in which one can stay hidden varies by rank and ability.

Name: Suimen Hokou no Waza (Act of Water Surface Walking)
Rank: -
Type: Supplementary
Chakra Cost: -
A variation on the Kinobori no Waza (Act of Tree Climbing), the art of water surface walking allows a ninja to walk on water as if it was a solid surface. Focusing an even amount of chakra out of the soles of their feet, they can balance themselves on the very surface of the water.

Name: Muon Satsujin Jutsu (Silent Homicide Technique)
Rank: -
Type: Attack
Chakra Cost: -
Muon Satsujin Jutsu, the ability to commit a silent homicide, is a technique to dispatch your foe with no warning. Your quick speed and skills will instantly kill them before they can provide a defense

Name: Explosion Tag: Activate
Rank: E
Type: -
Chakra Cost: 5
The user will activate an explosion tag. Normally, the tag will be placed by them, so they know where it is and can easily activate it.

Name: Kakuremino no Jutsu (Magic Cloak of Invisibility Technique)
Rank: E
Chakra Cost: 5
Damage: -
Element: -
Kakuremino no Jutsu is a very basic Ninjutsu technique. The ninja uses a camouflage cloth to cloak themselves in the background.

Name: Nawanuke no Jutsu (Escaping Skill)
Rank: E
Chakra Cost: 5
Damage: -
Element: -
A very basic technique that allows a ninja to escape from rope binds.

Name: Kawarimi no Jutsu (Change of Body Stance Technique)
Rank: E
Chakra Cost: 5-19
Damage: -
Element: -
When in danger the ninja will quickly substitute themselves with another nearby object. This can be a block of wood or even another person. This allows the ninja to quickly flee and hide while the original object takes the brunt of their opponents attack. Explosive tags can be attached to the replacement for an added surprise.

Name: Henge no Jutsu (Transformation Technique)
Rank: E
Chakra Cost: 10
Damage: -
Element: -
Allows the ninja to transform themselves into any person or object. This allows the ninja to move with stealth or to trick their opponents.

Name: Bunshin no Jutsu (Clone Technique)
Rank: E
Chakra Cost: 15
Damage: -
Element: -
Creates a copy of the ninja without substance. The copy resembles the ninja in every way. This clone can function as a distraction or as means to confuse one's opponent. As soon the clone gets attacked or comes into contact with an opponent, it will disperse.

Name: Shunshin no Jutsu (Body Flicker Technique)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 20
Damage: -
Element: -
The ninja will appear and disappear in an instant, allowing them to retreat or attack suddenly. To facilitate the movement the ninja will often use nearby elements such as mist, sand or leaves to mask their appearance or disappearance.

Name: Kage Shuriken no Jutsu (Shadow Shuriken Technique)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 20
Damage: -
Element: -
When throwing a shuriken, the ninja will also throw a second shuriken to hide in the shadow of the first. The hidden secondary shuriken can then approach the target without their being aware.

Name: Kanashibari no Jutsu (Temporary Body Paralysis Technique)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 20
Damage: Lasting 1 post
Element: -
Kanashibari no Jutsu is an advanced Ninjutsu technique used to temporarily bind an individual or animal. With the person frozen in place, the ninja can either take the opportunity to attack or to retreat.

Name: Sumi Bunshin no Jutsu (Ink Clone Technique)
Rank: C
Chakra Cost: 40
Damage: -
Element: -
Sumi Bunshin no Jutsu is a Ninjutsu technique that utilizes ink to create a Bunshin clone. If the Sumi Bunshin is injured, the clone will usually revert back into its natural ink state.

Name: Sumi Gasumi no Jutsu (Ink Haze Technique)
Rank: C
Chakra Cost: 40
Damage: -
Element: -
Sumi Gasumi no Jutsu is a Ninjutsu technique that utilizes ink to hide an escape. After forming the needed hand seal, ink will surround the ninja to hide the movement of their ultra fast escape.

Name: Utsusemi no Jutsu (Man of the World)
Rank: B
Chakra Cost: 60
Damage: -
Element: -
Forming the needed handseals, the user will project their voice to different areas to hide their location and the number of allies at their side.

Name: Ukojizai no Jutsu (Fierce Raining at Will)
Rank: B
Chakra Cost: 70
Damage: -
Element: -
Ukojizai no Jutsu is a Ninjutsu technique which allows the user to blanket a wide area with a downpour of rain. They can maintain a connection to the rain and tell when someone is obstructing it. This also allows them to detect the individual's location, chakra level, and skill.

Name: Kage Bunshin no Jutsu (Shadow Clone Technique)
Rank: B
Chakra Cost: 70
Damage: -
Element: -
Kage Bunshin distributes the ninja's chakra evenly among the clones and creates a real copy with form and substance. The clone itself can also utilize any jutsu the original ninja knows. When the clone finally disperses, any new knowledge it has gained is passed back to the original ninja and any additional clones. This makes Kage Bunshin an excellent training method if the ninja has the chakra capacity and stamina to maintain the Kage Bunshins for an extended period of time. This allows the ninja to essentially reduce the time it takes to train and learn with each clone added.

Name: Shinranshin no Jutsu (Mind Derangement Technique)
Rank: B
Chakra Cost: 75
Damage: -
Element: -
Shinranshin no Jutsu is a Ninjutsu technique which is used to confuse the targets body into attacking a nearby ally. The ninja will form the needed hand seal and then send their spirtual energy of confusion at the opponent. Though the opponent is mentally aware of their action, they are unable to stop their body from carrying out the attack.

Name: Choujuu Giga no Jutsu (Super Beast Imitation Drawing)
Rank: B
Chakra Cost: 80
Damage: -
Element: -
Gifted with much artistic talent, Shinju can remove her special scroll and ink drawings on its surface. Forming the needed handseal she can then give life to the art, allowing it to spring off the page and obey her will. She can only draw and perform this with crows, foxes, pandas, tigers, and turtles.

Name: Bunshin Daibakuha (Clone Great Explosion)
Rank: A
Chakra Cost: 150
Damage: -
Element: -
This jutsu works in combination with the Kage Bunshin no Jutsu (Shadow Clone), and creates a Shadow Clone that will explode on command, potentially killing or injuring those caught in the blast.

Name: Kai (Dispel)
Rank: -
Chakra Cost: 20-200+; Depends on the genjutsu being dispelled
Damage: -
Element: -
A jutsu that destroys/cancels out an illusionary jutsu attempted on the user. Only shinobi with strong chakra control can perform this. The user releases a large amount of chakra then quickly halts it. The genjutsu is usually dispelled after that, depending on how strong the skill is.

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Genjutsu:

Name: Magen: Narakumi no Jutsu (Demonic Illusion: Hell Viewing Technique)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 25
Damage: Lasting 1 post
Element: -
Narakumi no Jutsu is a Genjutsu that causes its target to see a horrifying vision. The ninja will use the serpent hand seal that causes a circle of leaves to spin and envelope the target and then fall away. Once cast, the world will appear normal to the target until they have seen the illusion.

Name: Magen: Jubaku Satsu (Demonic Illusion: Tree Bind Death)
Rank: B
Chakra Cost: 80
Damage: Lasting 3 posts
Element: -
With this jutsu, the user can make themselves disappear so that they can approach their opponent unnoticed. Once near the desired target, a tree will grow at the target's feet and branches from an illusory tree will bind them from behind so that they are unable to even move or use hand seals. Once the opponent believes that they are captured, the user can then reappear from above the tree and quickly attack, possibly even kill, the opponent, preferably with a kunai.

Name: Kokuangyou no Jutsu (Journey into Black Darkness Technique)
Rank: A
Chakra Cost: 120
Damage: Lasting 5 posts
Element: -
Kokuangyou no Jutsu is a Genjutsu technique which causes the ninja's opponent to be enveloped in total darkness. While in the black void, the ninja will be unable to see any incoming attack or threat.

Name: Nehan Shouja no Jutsu (Temple of Nirvana Technique)
Rank: A
Chakra Cost: 125
Damage: Lasting 5 posts
Element: -
Nehan Shouja no Jutsu is a Genjutsu technique that allows the caster to place a large body of people into a unconscious state. The target can avoid the spell by forming and using the dispel skill.

Name: Magen: Supekutoru Doragon no Jutsu (Demonic Illusion: Spectral Dragon)
Rank: A
Chakra Cost: 150
Damage: Lasting 3 posts
Element: -
The user will cause the area around the target to be enveloped by darkness. Once inside the black space, the target will see grotesque figures said to be tortured criminals, the previous victims of the technique. These grotesqueries will reach out and grab a hold of the target. They will then be thrown into the void to the mercy of a spectral dragon. The horrifying oni can even extend from the targets own body to attack them. All aimed at transfixing the victim with fear and shock while the user themself chokes and kills the target.

Wind:

Name: Kaze Shuriken (Wind Shuriken)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 20
Damage: -
Element: Wind
The user manipulates their chakra into disks of wind, resembling shuriken. The user then launches the disks of wind at their opponent from almost any direction.

Name: Fuusajin (Dust Wind)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 25
Damage: -
Element: Wind
Using their fan, the user will blow a strong current which will cover the surrounding area in dust. This dust will serve to loosen the footing for any opponent who walks nearby.

Name: Reppushou (Gale Wind Palm)
Rank: D
Chakra Cost: 25
Damage: -
Element: Wind
After forming the needed hand seals, the user will send a strong gust of wind towards their target while acting in conjunction with another thrown weapon, increasing its power and deadliness.

Name: Kaze Baria no Jutsu (Wind Barrier)
Rank: C
Chakra Cost: 45
Damage: -
Element: Wind
The user pushes wind chakra out in front of them. They mold it into a 2 meter tall, 1/2 meter thick wall of wind chakra. This is a purely defensive technique. The chakra slashes at anything that touches it.

Name: Daitoppa (Great Breakthrough)
Rank: C
Chakra Cost: 50
Damage: -
Element: Wind
The user sends out a powerful explosion of wind, which can easily level almost an entire area. It is known that a variation of the technique involves a smaller blast of wind which gets ignited with flame, making it stronger and more damaging to the given target.

Name: Kaze Bunshin no Jutsu (Wind Clone)
Rank: C
Chakra Cost: 55
Damage: -
Element: Wind
The user forces out wind chakra and molds it into a human-like shape. Then the user molds the chakra with further detail to make it resemble them. When this clone is attacked, instead of poofing, it cuts what it touches with the unleashed wind chakra.

Name: Kamaitachi no Jutsu (Cutting Whirlwind Technique)
Rank: C
Chakra Cost: 55
Damage: -
Element: Wind
Using a giant fan, the user creates huge gusts of wind mixed with chakra capable of cutting the target apart. This whirlwind is powerful enough to repel and destroy multiple types of throwing weapons and can even reflect sound waves right back at their original source.

Name: Daikamaitachi no Jutsu (Great Cutting Whirlwind Technique)
Rank: B
Chakra Cost: 100
Damage: -
Element: Wind
This technique is a bigger version of the normal Kamaitachi no Jutsu, having the ability to cause a great amount of cutting damage to the nearby area.

Name: Tatsu no Ooshigoto (Dragon’s Big Job)
Rank: A
Chakra Cost: 150
Damage: -
Element: Wind
The user will swing their fan into the air, causing the sky to grow dark and stormy. These clouds will create a cutting tornado that will drop down on top of the target.

Name: Itonami Myaku (Life Pulse)
Rank: S
Chakra Cost: 350
Damage: -
Element: Wind
The user focuses their chakra in front of them in the form of the wind element. After collecting a suffice amount of wind, they can manipulate it with the movement of their arms or hands, or other designated parts of the body. With a powerful blast, the user can release this wind in the desired direction toward the opponent, or separately attack from multiple directions with less power. This takes on the form on a tornado, 15 feet in diameter traveling about 100 mph, but when separated, it takes on the form of miniature tornadoes or whirls, 5 feet in diameter traveling at the same speed. This jutsu can stay intact for up to 150 meters, unless it comes in contact with large slopes. This attack is attracted to the life energy of a living thing, so when directed at the opponent, it will be unlikely for them to dodge. With enough preparation, speed, and evasion, the opponent maybe able to escape the path of the devastating attack. On the other hand, if it’s manipulated into less powerful blasts in several directions, it becomes nearly impossible to evade.

Sand:

Name: Suna Shuriken (Sand Shuriken)
Rank: C
Chakra Cost: 40
Damage: -
Element: Sand
Using chakra to control nearby sand, the user will hurl disks of sand at the opponent. Spinning through the air the disks are deadly in strength, inflicting large amounts of damage to his target and surrounding objects.

Name: Sabaku Fuyuu no Jutsu (Desert Sand Floating Technique)
Rank: C
Chakra Cost: 45
Damage: -
Element: Sand
Using their ability to levitate sand, the user will bring together sand into cloud shape clumps. These clumps are dense enough for the user or another ninja to rest on. This can allow the user to rise above any threat from below.

Name: Sabaku Kyuu no Jutsu (Desert Coffin Technique)
Rank: C
Chakra Cost: 45
Damage: -
Element: Sand
The user will cause sand to rise from the ground and wrap around the legs of their target, restraining them in place. The sand will then rise up to full encase the target. This technique alone can crush the bones of the opponent but the technique is usually used to prepare the victim for the Sabaku Sousou technique.

Name: Sabaku Sousou no Jutsu (Desert Funeral Technique)
Rank: B
Chakra Cost: 75
Damage: -
Element: Sand
The user will cause sand to rise from the ground and encase their target using his Sabaku Kyuu technique, making them captured in place. They will then do this jutsu to constrict and crush the target, most likely killing them or crushing them to a large extent.

Name: Sabaku Rou no Jutsu (Desert Prison Technique)
Rank: B
Chakra Cost: 75
Damage: -
Element: Sand
With the further expansion of their powers, the user is able to control larger and larger amounts of sand. Sabaku Rou is a large scale version of Sabaku Kyuu. With this technique, the user will cause a large sphere of sand to encircle and trap their target.

Name: Ryuusa Bakuryuu no Jutsu (Quicksand Waterfall Current Technique)
Rank: B
Chakra Cost: 115
Damage: -
Element: Sand
The technique functions similar to Sabaku Kyuu except on a much larger scale. With the development of the user’s powers, they gain further control over the nearby environment. By crushing rocks and pebbles in the ground with sand, they can create more useable sand. After focusing their power, a large tidal wave size amount sand will rise from the ground to cover the surrounding area. This technique serves to set up his Sabaku Taisou technique.

Name: Sabaku Taisou no Jutsu (Desert Imperial Funeral Technique)
Rank: A
Chakra Cost: 195
Damage: -
Element: Sand
The technique functions similar to Sabaku Sousou except on a much larger scale. With the development of the user’s powers, they gain further control over the nearby environment. By crushing rocks and pebbles in the ground, they can create more useable sand. After focusing their power, they use the Ryuusa Bakuryuu technique to cover the surrounding environment in sand. They then place their hands down to the ground and cause the sand to constrict and harden; thereby crushing everything it is covering.

Name: Kuusa Bouheki no Jutsu (Sky Sand Protective Wall Technique)
Rank: S
Chakra Cost: 250
Damage: -
Element: Sand
Kuusa Bouheki is a Ninjutsu technique used completely as a defence. Using the ability to levitate sand, the user will form a large protective wall to block incoming attacks, such as explosions, etc. Because of the large amount of sand involved, the jutsu drains a lot of chakra.

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History:

Where it All Began

Kiyoko Yuzuki, a fine young lady of Sunagakure, had just been appointed a job at the village academy. Although she wasn’t the best kunoichi when it came to fighting, she was outstanding at learning and performing jutsus with perfection, as well as she was great with children. Her new career was the perfect birthday gift for a ninja of her expertise. Although she had to give up some of her old interests, such a music and art, she was deeply excited. She was considered a woman, the age of twenty. In her family, any girl the age of eighteen was a women and was expected to fend for their own. Though, her parents kept her around for awhile. Kiyoko had already moved into a vacant house near the center of the village, starting her life of her own. She stayed in contact with her family. Her favorite people were her grandparents, especially her grandfather Satoichi, and she didn’t want to miss anything involved with them.

Her first day of teaching in the academy was rough, but by the end of the week, she already had all her students’ names down, and they were ready to learn. Kiyoko was determined to educate her students into becoming the best kunoichi or shinobi they could be. She examined each and every one of them carefully, detecting who was best with what. Her lessons were harsh on the children, but she eventually found a better and more sufficient way of teaching. At the end of the day, she’d always have a surprise for them. Usually she brought her grandfather in, as he was wise and quite the jokester. Besides his boring stories, the students seemed to love his sense of humor. Seeing both her students and grandfather happy filled her heart with joy; she knew she had made the right decision in teaching. Though, after class was a different story. Since she just moved out on her own, she was desperately in need of supplies all the time. Instead of going to her parents, whom would gladly lend her a hand, she decided to take care of her problems on her own. Whether being independent was the right choice, she wasn’t sure then.

After a long day at the academy, Kiyoko made her way home. The sun was blazing, and the temperature had to be above the normal in Sunagakure. Squinting as she took her usual route through town, she got as far as the village bar. She had been working hard all day, the exhaustion finally took its toll on her as she fainted from fatigue in front of the small building. The next thing she knew, she woke up in the arms of a complete stranger. Completely startled and entirely disoriented, she jumped out of his arms. As she brought herself to stand, she simply stared at the man, observing his every detail. He was quite a bit taller than her, dark eyes, and careless hair the color of the finest wines. Although not too muscular, he was fit. Talk about tall, dark, and handsome. While she was enjoying her scenery, the man just stared back. Moments after the awkward silence, he helped her to a seat. He explained her situation and asked if she was feeling any better. Kiyoko didn’t speak, but nodded. Finally, he introduced himself as Seijin Kazoku, son of the wealthiest men in the Wind Country. Then he insisted he buy her dinner.

As they finished their talk over their meal, Kiyoko thanked him greatly. Seijin thanked her for accompanying him. Although he knew the chances of him being in Suna again was unlikely, he asked, “You wouldn’t mind doing this again sometime, would you?” She simply smiled and said, “Of course, but hopefully next time I won’t faint.” They both had a good laugh, then he escorted her home. Arriving at the door, she turned and looked at him one more time. He caressed her hair from her face, then gently kissed her. She didn’t expect it out of him, but who was to argue? Her face bright red, she entered and closed the door behind her. Seijin stood at the door for a moment in thought, then parted his way. Little did he know, they would meet again soon.

A month or so passed, and Kiyoko wondered if she’d ever see him again. Exactly forty-two days after their last encounter, she saw him again. This time, he was on her doorstep with a handful of freshly picked flowers. Her face lit up as she ran to him, greeting him was a hug. If he hadn’t convinced her that this time he was staying, she would have never let go. It was that day their romance began. At first he stayed at the village inn and took her to dinner every other night. Eventually, he moved in with her and their love grew stronger and stronger each day they were together. She continued her career as an academy teacher, and he made trade in town as a traveling salesman.

Two years later, they finally decided to make plans to marry. Kiyoko’s side of the family was extremely happy for the couple and intended to attend the wedding. On the other hand, Seijin’s family wasn’t all too pleased. The Yuzuki were prosperous, but more so a middle class clan. The Kazoku were expert traders, and came from a long line of wealth. They didn’t find Kiyoko or her family suffice enough for Seijin. Despite their opposition, Seijin was determined to marry Kiyoko whether his family approved or not. He did demand that they at least attend, feeling they should show their respect. The wedding took place, and surprisingly enough, both families were there. Kiyoko was twenty-two, Seijin was twenty-four, and this was only the beginning of their love and many years to grow together.

First Born

Shortly after they wed, Kiyoko conceived a child. Both were greatly excited, and equally nervous. She wasn’t sure if she was ready to be a mother, but Seijin convinced her she would be a lovely mother due to her experience with children and caring nature. Although he didn’t show it, Seijin was afraid he wouldn’t make the cut as a father. His work kept him away from home during most the day, and when he did arrive back, it was usually evening. He was afraid he wouldn’t have enough time to even bond with his own child, or if the child would like him. In his eyes, Kiyoko was the mother and sure to have a strong bond with her baby. She could also stay home with the child everyday due to the generosity of the head academy teacher. The thought of bringing a living, breathing baby into the world scared them both. Luckily, family was there to support them in anyway needed. One of them was grandfather Satoichi. He helped them prepare by building a cradle, and other helpful tools in raising a child. He also advised Seijin to find some toys in his travels, that it was sure to please any child.

A good nine months later, as any other pregnant women, Kiyoko went into labor. It was as hot as the day the couple first met, but the sun was slowly setting. Satoichi helped Seijin escort Kiyoko to the village hospital, immediately being taken to a room as they entered. As the sun finished setting, the temperature began to cool dramatically. Seijin didn’t think the blankets were enough to keep Kiyoko warm, but the nurses and doctors insisted he calm down and wait in the other room, and so he did. Patiently, Satoichi and Seijin sat outside the hospital room. Then suddenly, a cry was heard. Seijin jumped up and headed for the door as the nurse walked out. She smiled and directed him into the room to see his newly born daughter. Satoichi came in soon after, his face glowing as he set eyes on his new great grandchild. The baby girl was asleep in her mother’s arms, Kiyoko smiling warmly as the two men walked in.

A few hours passed. Kiyoko had been resting, her daughter asleep in grandfather Satoichi’s arms. As the new mother’s eyes slowly opened, a question sparked. “What shall we name this new born child?” Seijin asked. Kiyoko pondered, the question really never came to thought. Her gaze drew to the window of her hospital room. She smiled as her eyes came across a full moon. It was the most beautiful she had ever seen the moon that night, a pure white. Satoichi read her mind and decided to speak for her. “What about Shinju?” he suggested. Kiyoko turned to her grandfather and nodded. “Pearl…” she mumbled, “The moon is…a pearl tonight, it’s perfect…Thank you…” Seijin nodded at the both of them as well. “Shinju Kazoku.” he repeated in his mind, then eventually aloud. The whole room smiled as they’re attention directed at the sleeping child.

The day after Shinju was born, Seijin and Kiyoko thanked Satoichi as well as the medics and took returned home with their new born daughter. The rest of this new adventure was for them to find out, so then their journey as parents began.

Early Years

At first, Seijin and Kiyoko obviously had no idea what they were doing. Everyday was difficult, whether they be taking care of the baby or providing for the family. Business was good for the man of the house, but staying home with a crying baby was a headache. The first few days, Seijin stayed home and helped Kiyoko with Shinju. This allowed her a break, or some time to teach at the academy. He was indeed helpful, but duty always calls. If he wanted to support his new family, he was going to have to work. Although he didn’t want to leave Kiyoko behind with her baby, he had no other choice.

In the beginning, everyone wanted to see the new heir. Then, visiting gradually slowed. Eventually, the only one who was coming to see Shinju was Satoichi. That didn’t provide much a problem for Kiyoko, for Shinju made less fuss when he was there. This made things a lot quieter, and gave Kiyoko time to rest.

In only a few months, Shinju was crawling across the floors of their home and babbling baby talk. Kiyoko could get a lot more done around the house now, and she had finally given up her career as a teacher. It wasn’t that heartbreaking to her though, she enjoyed staying home with her infant daughter. She resembled both her parents, having light brown hair, and hazel eyes. Shinju was even taking on a personality now as she observed the people around her. Above all, the infant was curious. She was always getting herself into things she shouldn’t. One day, she knocked Kiyoko’s jewelry box to the ground. The frightened mother hurried into the room to find Shinju teething one of her necklaces. Sighing out of relief, she pleasantly walked over to her child. Picking her and the jewelry box up, she reorganized things as they were before. Instead of taking the necklace off of her completely, she hung it above her cradle. Each time Kiyoko put Shinju down for a nap, the baby’s big, bold eyes stared at the locket and slowly drifted to sleep.

A few years passed, and Shinju grew rapidly. Still, each night, Seijin returned home after a long day of work. He was greeted by both his loving wife and daughter. Shinju could walk to him now, as well as make small talk with the few words she learned. Her brain was like a sponge, absorbing the world around her. At the age of three, she would either be making mischief, or helping her mother cook and clean. It wouldn’t be long before she’d go out into the world and make friends with other toddlers. Kiyoko hoped Shinju would be good at choosing friends, and who not to play with, or what not to do. Seijin had no worries at all about Shinju.

New Residents

A couple of more years passed, and Satoichi moved in with the small family. He had recently become ill, and was too old to take care of himself now. Kiyoko nursed him back to health with her little helper, Shinju, who was now four years of age. Kiyoko was pregnant again, and due any day now. Seijin convinced Satoichi into staying with the family by explaining how much they enjoyed his presence and help with their first child. Shinju was overjoyed, she loved her great grandfather more than anyone else. Though, she wasn’t sure what to think of a little brother or sister.

While Kiyoko was doing housework, Shinju found Satoichi more interesting. She’d listen as he’d tell her stories of his past or how their clan came to be. Shinju became more and more interested in her clan, as well as their abilities. She pleaded that he teach her, and so he did. He even passed down to her the fan that was used by the elite of their ninja in the past. He had been saving it for someone he thought worthy, and found no problem giving it to Shinju as a gift on her fifth birthday. When she received his gift, she couldn’t have been any happier. Thus, her training within her clan had begun.

Only eight days after Shinju’s birthday, Kiyoko went into labor once again. As before, they rushed her to the hospital. This time, Satoichi stayed home with Shinju. When she finally gave birth to another girl, the other two made their visit. They decided on the name Yuuko, and so she was called Yuuko Kazoku. At first, Shinju was completely excited with the idea of having a baby sister. Even when all attention went to the new resident of the home, she was pleased to have Yuuko to play with.

Unlike their first child, the couple had no problems raising Yuuko. Seijin continued his work, Kiyoko stayed home with the children, and Satoichi trained Shinju when he could. The progress of the five year old amazed the old man, she learned quickly. The fact that she could wield a fan so large, let along lift it, was outstanding. Shinju most certainly proved herself strong and hard-working. Satoichi saw her potential and convinced the rest of the clan in training her in their special techniques. She took on the clan training willingly. Kiyoko was happy with Shinju taking interest in her family and their history, but Seijin wanted someone to take on the family trade.

When Shinju wasn’t training or performing simple chores, she was playing with Yuuko and teaching her new things. She was determined to teach her little sister right from wrong and the safest ways to have fun. Some of her teachings got across to the new baby, but she was still young and didn’t comprehend much. Even so, Kiyoko, Seijin, and Satoichi commended her efforts. They could tell Shinju was going to be a great elder sister and friend to Yuuko.

Death and Despair

Exactly one month after Yuuko was born, Satoichi passed. It was of natural causes, most thought it was of old age. The sudden death traumatized both Kiyoko and Shinju, but mostly Shinju. Being only a kid and five years of age, the fact that someone she kept so close to her died was absolutely depressing. Seijin comforted Kiyoko, and Shinju, as much as her could. Kiyoko, having had family die before, got over it after a week or so and attended his funeral. Shinju, on the other hand, attended the funeral as well, but wouldn’t forget. She kept him in her heart.

Shinju decided to continue her training, for it was something she could remember him by. She even trained more with her fan, becoming stronger and stronger each day. The elders of the Yuzuki clan took Satoichi’s word, observing Shinju secretly as she trained. They realized her potential as well and couldn’t wait until she was old enough to start real training as a kunoichi of the Village Hidden in the Sand.

Soon, she started her own routine. She’d wake up in the morning and have breakfast with the whole family. When her dad left for work, she’d help her mother with household chores and the baby. After that, she’d eat a quick lunch and head to the clan training grounds. Every step she took, every move she made, she put her heart and soul into. Occasionally, Shinju would stop and cry. She missed her great grandfather dearly, but she knew even pretending he was there wouldn’t bring him back. Her parents tried to explain to her that she would have to accept his death and move on. Even so, she didn’t, nor would she ever forget him.

~~~~~

~~~~~

Growing Up

As years began to pass, Shinju realized just how much more Yuuko needed attention than she did. Kiyoko and Seijin focused a lot more on Yuuko than Shinju, mainly because they were accustom to Satoichi taking care of her. Their work began to grow sloppier and sloppier by the year. Kiyoko started forgetting to make meals for Shinju, she even began to forget that Shinju was there. Shinju didn’t make much a fuss about it, she figured she could just cook and fend for herself.

Seijin wasn’t home much anymore due to work. Occasionally, he’d come home and sit down at dinner, but most the time he came home in the middle of the night. Kiyoko disliked not seeing Seijin as much as she wanted, and in the process nearly completely forgot about her other responsibilities. When Kiyoko ran into friends while out shopping with Yuuko, they would ask about Shinju. The questioned how she was doing, how grown up she was, what characteristics she’d taken on. That’s when Kiyoko realized just how much she didn’t know about her eldest daughter. She also noticed that Shinju didn’t play with other children as she should.

Gradually, Kiyoko and Seijin would try and spark a conversation with Shinju. They wanted to know how her day went, who she hung out with, what she did, and her interests. Unsure of how to react, Shinju answered, but didn’t really keep the conversation going. Truthfully, she was growing apart from her family as much as they were her. It didn’t pose much a problem until Shinju started getting home later and later each night. Both parents became worried, questioning her. Shinju simply explained that she had been training, all in preparation to take part in the academy as her great grandfather wished. Neither her mother nor father knew what to say to that. Kiyoko only wanted to make Seijin happy, and all he wanted was an heir to take on the family trade. Any plans or dreams Shinju had were all shot down by her father’s pride.

As time progressed, so did Shinju. Even at the young age of seven, her basic fighting skills were precise. She could throw shuriken and kunai at a target, and all but a few would hit. This wasn’t all that impressive to her clan, for accuracy wasn’t a problem for any descendent. Shinju took on more clan training. They decided to teach her some of their clan techniques, and were greatly amazed at how quick she caught on. By the end of only one month, she was capable of moving a projectile with only her mind. This sparked more interest in the elders, so they began to provide a new technique each month.

After a year of training under the clan, she could perform all clan techniques, even if they weren’t perfect. She practically mastered her telekinesis, and could create a small force field to deflect any weapon based attacks. Shinju also learned how to slightly manipulate the wind element by using her own chakra. Meditation was an important process in all of this. Everyday, she’d meditate with the elders and other members of her clan. The focusing of the mind increased her reaction time, accuracy, and slowly regenerated her energy. The elders even began to teach her forms of genjutsu and how to activate her Ayamugan, though Shinju didn’t use them much at first. Before she began her training, she would always stop to meditate in preparation. The fact that she was so dedicated to her training shocked the other members of the clan. Shinju was only about eight and was determined to be a successful kunoichi.

When Shinju was dragged away for her training, her father taught her the family trade. In this, she wasn’t very successful at all. She had no motivation at all; it was of no interest to her. Although she could help sell a lot when she stood by her father, it was only because of her pretty face. Being young and adorable, she attracted more attention than her father alone. Even so, Seijin was disappointed. He wanted one of his children to take on the family trade, and Shinju was obviously not the one to do that. Then he began to debate on whether his three year old daughter, Yuuko, would ever take an interest in the business. This made Seijin frown even more. Kiyoko suggested they try to have another child, hopefully a son. They were both sure that a boy would take interest in his father’s work. After many failed attempts, they went to the village hospital for answers. Unfortunately, after a brief visit to the doctor, they discovered Kiyoko couldn’t have anymore children. This deeply upset Seijin even more, and he began to come around less and less, working later each night. Kiyoko even went into a stage of depression due to the fact that she won’t ever have another child again. The couple never moved on after the incident, and their love became more distant each day they were apart. This had little effect on Yuuko, but Shinju happened to notice.

About two years had passed, Shinju would soon be ten. Seijin was normally on business trips, and Kiyoko would take up her artistic talents while he was gone. She could be found singing or whistling a tune while doing housework. Occasionally, Shinju would walk in on her singing when retrieving a glass of water after a long day of training. She was practically memorized by her mother’s delicate voice. Every time, Shinju would listen closely as she sang different notes. Soon enough, she had Shinju singing. This pleased Kiyoko, so in her free time she’d teach her the basics of music. Of course, Yuuko was interested as well. Although Yuuko was only about five and more domesticated than Shinju, she still had a lot to learn. Her little sister would try and play along, but found it hard to even pronounce words correctly, let alone sing. Yuuko stayed home and was taught basic living skills by Kiyoko as well as speech and writing. It was only her first year of schooling, so she was still catching on. If Kiyoko wasn’t singing, she was painting. With one less person to care for in the house and her children a little more grown now, she found more free time. Art seemed to have caught Shinju’s eye more than music, because sometimes she’d skip training to watch her mother paint. She was amazed at the least, she watched every brush stroke and stride of the hand as pencil or paint brush met the paper. All the colors and pictures seemed to brighten the room. It wasn’t long before Shinju began to help her mother paint. They all seemed to be bonding.

On her tenth birthday, her mother came across the old locket she would hang above Shinju’s cradle each night. With a new sketchbook, pencils, and paints, she added the locket to her basket of gifts for Shinju. Surprisingly enough, she remembered the locket. Overwhelmed with joy, she hugged her mother and sister for the lovely gifts. After having a small celebration with a few friends, she immediately began to sketch. She’d usually sit on her roof top, sketching the scenery before her. Her favorite things to draw were the nature before her. Shinju would sketch a variety of animals and plants she saw in old scrapbooks of her clan’s travels. She would even paint photographs her family kept over the years. Her love for art grew as she did, and so she became more passionate in her sketching, music, and training.

Shinju was the average age enrolled in the village academy, but her father still protested. Although Kiyoko wanted them all to be one big happy family, when Seijin wasn’t home, she’d teach Shinju the ninja basics and common elements ninja used in Sunagakure. Being a retired academy teacher, she was a little rough with her own skills. Even so, it was enough for Shinju to learn to perform basic jutsus and fighting techniques. Business for the Kazoku clan was dropping abruptly, and for unknown reasons. This went on for about three years, and then Seijin happened to find out. He was furious with Kiyoko for teaching Shinju behind his back, and blamed them both for his business problems. He claimed that it was no one but Kiyoko’s fault that she couldn’t have another child, and that Shinju should have been the next in line to inherit the family trade. This hurt both Kiyoko and Shinju, but her mother took more damage. She attempted to comfort her, and at the same time became royally peeved with her own father. Shinju and Seijin began to move further and further apart.

After enduring about a year more of her father and his ignorance as well as arrogance, For the oddest reason, Kiyoko continued to standby Seijin in everything he did, regardless whether he was inconsiderate of anyone else or not. For this, Shinju couldn’t forgive either of them. She tried talking some sense into her mother, but it was no use. She began demanding that her father let her enroll in the academy, but he just completely ignored her. Eventually, Shinju grew tired of begging and pleading. Instead of just giving up, she decided to take matters into her own hands. She was about fourteen now, she could cook, clean, and do just about anything on her own. Her skills as a ninja developed over the years as she trained, so she could fight for herself as well. Determined to follow her dreams, she packed herself a knapsack full of necessities. Her fan, locket, and pack equipped, she left a note on the table, and set out on a journey of her own.

Lost and Found

With no sense of direction, nor experience of travel outside of her home village, she wandered off into the desserts of the Wind Country. Maybe it was just the sun beating down on Shinju and her barely covered feet pressing the hot sand, but whatever it was, the heat was unbearable. Using a few stealthy techniques she had learned, she avoided coming in any contact with other ninja that might happen to pass by. With the little chakra she had left, she trudged on.

After a day and a half straight of traveling, her only motivation, the determination to follow her dreams, she finally approached some wood. Towering trees shaded her as she followed a dirt road leading her astray the sandy grounds she walked only moments before. Shinju shook the sand out of her shoes, and adjusted the fan on her back more comfortably. For only a moment she glanced at her locket. Convincing herself not to look back, her eyes stared forward as she followed the path.

Without food and water, she soon became dizzy and disoriented. Not once did she stop to take a rest. She couldn’t feel her legs, but that didn’t keep her from walking. As she approached the gates of what seemed to be a village, she gave in. Completely fatigued, she passed out only feet away from its entrance.

The next thing she knew, she woke up in a hospital bed. A nurse came in with a warm smile and greeted her. “Good morning, it seems you rested well.” the friendly women said. Shinju wasn’t sure exactly where she was, nor how to react to the unfamiliar face. Her eyes skimmed the room, and then came back into focus on the nurse. “I see you’re unaware of what happened.” she continued, “One of our younger shinobi found you laying on the ground just outside our village gates.” Right as the women spoke, a young man entered the room. He was quite large, both tall and muscular. His hair was as white as clouds, reaching for his waist. His eyes were a piercing gold, meeting hers as she stared at him blankly. As she observed him, he smiled faintly. “Oh, and there he is right now.” the nurse finished, leaving the room. Shinju watched her walk off, and then looked back at the mysterious young man who had supposedly saved her.

After a long moment of silence, the stranger spoke. “Are you feeling better?” he asked compassionately. Shinju sat up in her bed and nodded. Despite her condition, she didn’t want to be rude. If her father had taught her anything, it was to be polite. “That’s good.” he said with a sigh of relief, “The name is Mitsuhide Akechi by the way, but most people around here call me Mitsu.” Shinju wasn’t sure how to react; she most definitely wasn’t accustom to conversing. Returning the favor, she spoke up with the little breath she had. “A pleasure to meet you Mitsu…” she said in a soft voice, “I’m Shinju Kaz-…” She stopped herself for a moment, and then continued her introduction. “Shinju Yuzuki…” Mitsu smiled in return. “May I ask you something?” Shinju asked him. “Umm...Sure. What is it?” he replied. Looking around the room once more, she proceeded to her question. “Where exactly am I?” Mitsu chuckled slightly, and then answered. “You’re in a hospital in Konohagakure. Did you not intend to enter this village?” Shinju shook her head. “I kind of…wandered off…” He tilted his head a little to the left. “I live in Sunagakure…well, did…” This seemed to spark his interest, as he questioned her some more. “Will you be going back after you recover?” Shinju looked down. “Not likely…I’ll probably just wander off somewhere again…” Mitsu frowned for a moment, and tried to convince her otherwise. “Well, you could always stay here in Konoha.” he suggested. Shinju rose her head, thinking. “Maybe I will…” she mumbled, “After I recover…I’ll take a look around…” He smiled once more. “Very well then. I’ll let you rest now.” Waving goodbye, Mitsu exited the room. Shinju laid down, making herself comfortable again. As she closed her eyes, jumbled thoughts raced through her mind.

~~~~~

~~~~~

A Warm Welcome

After recuperating for a few more days, Shinju was back to her normal health. Something she did discover was that she was more sensitive to the sun than most. As she had told Mitsu, she decided to take a walk around Konoha. It was a lively village, though not very noisy. She passed many market and houses as she followed the roads. At one point, she came across the academy playground. Shinju stopped a moment and stared at the children playing. They were all so filled with joy. There were varieties of children, different aged, and from different clans. All seemed to get along regardless their differences, it made her smile. She stood there the whole day, staring at the vacant playground as they all entered the academy for their lessons. By sundown, her eyes were heavy. With the little energy she had left, she walked off into the nearby clearing. It was just outside the forest, having a few sporadic trees here and there. Finding a pleasant spot, she climbed a tree, positioning herself on a large limb, her back against its trunk. Since she had nowhere else to go for now, she’d sleep there. After a satisfying day, she finally rested her weary mind.

Early the next morning, Shinju woke up. In her dreams, she had realized that Konoha was where she was looking for the whole time. Determined to take part in their village academy, she started by training herself in preparation. She unlatched her fan from her back and torso, and took wield of it while finding her stance. Meditating for a few moments, she kept her form in silence. Then, opening her eyes, she brought her fan back. Forward, with a burst of sudden wind, she directed the air straight ahead at a tree. It did little damage, but enough to keep her going. She repeated this many times, each time taking more damage to the tree. After hours of non-stop training, her body began to give in again. It was the sun, it was already noon. She wiped the sweat from her forehead, and sat against the tree. Shinju closed her eyes, listening to the sounds around her. Leaves danced as a gentle breeze picked up. It was refreshing, cooling her face each time it passed. Then, suddenly, she heard a different noise from a bush not too far from her. She immediately jumped up, bringing her fan to her wield again. Slowly, a young boy about her age walked out.

The new boy scratched the back of his head, flailing with his other hand as to say he was of no threat. Shinju brought her fan down, but watched him carefully. He had reddish brown hair and was wearing a black pair of shades, something she found odd. He wore basic shinobi attire, and a leaf headband. A smiled stretched across his face as he spoke. “Didn’t mean to startle ya there, I just happened to se you training and thought you wouldn’t mind a little company.” Shinju stared at him with a blank expression. “I can go if ya want.” he proceeded as his grin began to fade. As he turned to walk away, Shinju tried to speak up. “Wait…you don’t-…don’t go…” she stuttered. He slowly turned to her, smiling again. Something about him made her want to smile to, and so she did. It was small and faint, but it was a smile. “You take part at the academy here? I don’t think I’ve seen your face before.” he continued. Her body more at ease, she relaxed and answered him politely. “No...You could say I’m new around here…” The boy took a seat atop a branch, and then replied. “I thought so, you didn’t look very familiar. You are going to take part in the academy though, right?” Shinju took a seat under her tree again. “That’s the plan…” The boy chuckled out of pure amusement and accomplishment, pointing to his headband. “I just graduated from there today; I’m a true shinobi now. Though I’m only a Genin, I’m going to be a full fledged ninja someday.” Shinju rose a brow. “Is that so…?” The boy grinned even wider. “Uh huh. Orochi Nara is my name, and it’s going to be a famous shinobi someday. Don’t you forget it!” Shinju just stared at Orochi and his pride, she had never seen anyone as determined as herself. “Nice to meet you…I’m Shinju Yuzuki…” Orochi just kept smiling, she assumed it was something he must have done often. “Shinju, huh? I’ll try and remember that. By the way, I was watching you train ya know.” Shinju blushed out of embarrassment. “Y-You did…?” Orochi laughed slightly, then jumped down from his branch. “Yup, and you don’t look like you’re that bad a fighter either. Care to have a small spar?” Her face continued to turn red as she tried to speak. “A spar…?” Orochi palmed his head. “You’ve never sparred before? A spar is a friendly fight between two or more people. It can be good training too.” Shinju nodded. “Umm…okay, but I probably won’t be that good.” Orochi frowned slightly, and Shinju wondered if she had said something wrong. “Have some confidence. I’ll be happy to be the first spar of yours.” She smiled a little again, lightening up some more. “I won’t go easy on you…” Orochi grinned again. “Now that’s the spirit!”

He allowed Shinju to make the first move. Taking her stance, she swung her fan directly at his position. With little effort, he dodged her attack. She had never seen anyone move that fast, except for the occasional training of her fellow clan members back home. “You’ll have to do better than that!” he shouted, throwing a few shuriken her way. Remembering some of her speed training from the elders, she watched closely as they came directly at her. Then, at the last minute, she dodged. A few would have hit her if she hadn’t defended with her fan, and she was quite impressed with his precision. “Amazing…” she said under her breath. Orochi smiled, giving her a chance to make a come back. “Thanks, you’re not too bad yourself.” Thinking things though a little beforehand, she prepared her attack. She threw a few of the shuriken he had used back at him, then directed her fan attack at the ground in front of him. The wind loosened the ground, and was sure to loosen his footing. “Ya missed!” he said as he dodged his own shuriken. Shinju smirked as she waited. As soon as Orochi’s feet touched the ground again, he immediately slipped and fell forward. “What the-…” he said as he stumbled. Orochi just sat there on the ground, completely confused at what she just did. Shinju walked over, providing him a hand to get up. He smiled, then took her hand, rising from the ground. As he slipped a little, she directed him to more stable ground.

“Ya know, you should enroll in the academy. It wouldn’t take you long to pass.” said a slightly distant voice. As Shinju drew her attention to the unfamiliar voice, Orochi smiled and greeted yet another young man. He was quite a bit taller than Orochi, and a little more muscular. His hair was a light color, his eyes crystal blue. “Hey Cirrus. You were watching, huh?” Shinju looked at Orochi, and then Cirrus, her face red again from the sudden attention. “Hello to you too Orochi, and yes, I was observing you two. I didn’t interrupt, did I?” Orochi laughed. “Nah, I just got beat.” Shinju just stood by, watching the two as they spoke. Cirrus looked at Shinju, her heart skipping a beat. “A new face I see, and you are?” She tried to find the courage and words to speak. “S-Shin-…” Orochi interrupted her, noticing her struggle to speak. “She calls herself Shinju Yuzuki. I don’t think she’s from around these parts.” Cirrus nodded as he listened. “I see. So you probably haven’t had the ramen here, have you?” Shinju tilted her head. “Oh yea!” shouted Orochi, “You should come eat at Ichiraku Ramen Bar, they have the best ramen ever!” Shinju looked at Orochi as he eased her confusion, then back at Cirrus. “I-I don’t have any money…” she muttered. Cirrus smiled lightly. “Money isn’t a problem, I have plenty. My clan, the Xiahiw, is quite wealthy. In fact, I’m hungry as we speak. How about we all go have a bowl? The treat’s all mine.” Shinju didn’t like the thought of mooching off of people, especially when it came to money. Even so, she ended up going, willing or not. “Alright!” shouted Orochi in joy, “Let’s go Shinju!” He grabbed her by the arm and dragged he along as the three proceeded to the center of town.

On their way to Ichiraku, Orochi and Cirrus talked about their graduating from the academy and what they looked forward to as shinobi. Shinju just listened, curious about what it would be like to take part in an actual academy. Finally they arrived at their destination, stomachs growling. Cirrus and Orochi made their orders, Orochi psyched on having a bowl or pork ramen of no charge on his part. Both boys, and the waiter stared at Shinju, awaiting her order. “I…umm…” she mumbled. Orochi happily ordered for her. “She’ll have the same as me.” Then, looking to Shinju, he whispered. “Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll like it. It’s the best, in my opinion.” The three of them happily waited for their meals. Not long after ordering, they were served. Shinju was starving, and no matter how unusual the dish looked to her, it was delectable. Orochi slurped his noodles, telling jokes here and there. Cirrus shook his head and laughed, taking bites every so often. Shinju just shoveled the food down her throat, both boys staring occasionally. “I see you have quite the appetite.” said Cirrus with a smile. Shinju looked up, apologizing. “I’m sorry…I haven’t eaten all day…” Both boys laughed. “It’s fine.” Cirrus reassured her. Then a question popped in his head. “So, where are you staying if you’re not from Konoha?” Finishing her bowl surprisingly last, she wiped her mouth and answered. “In the tree we just left…” Cirrus rose a brow. “Wouldn’t you like a more comfortable place to stay? I’m sure my clan wouldn’t mind sparing an apartment.” Trying to be polite, Shinju replied hesitantly. “I suppose…but I’m fine, really…” She even smiled a little, trying to make it sound more convincing. “Really, I insist. It wouldn’t be a problem at all. In fact, it would be more honorable for you to take the offer, but if that’s what you want, do as you wish.” he said with a sigh. Cirrus was using a form of psychology on her, and Orochi snickered at it. Unaware of the complete situation, Shinju blurted out, trying not to be disrespectful. “I’m sorry! I didn’t mean it that way…I mean…I didn’t know…I-I…” Cirrus stopped her. “It’s okay, I was just messing with you. I really do think it would be better if you had a better place to stay though.” Shinju attempted to calm herself, trying to come back to her senses. “I’ll stay then…” She went to put her hand to her mouth, but she had already said it. Before she could take it back, Cirrus smiled and spoke again. “Good. Now that you’re done, I’ll escort you to you new home.” Orochi couldn’t help but laugh, and then he bid them farewell. “I’ll see ya guys later. Bye Cirrus! Goodnight Shinju!” With that, Orochi took off as Shinju shyly waved goodbye.

Cirrus paid the waiter, then signaled Shinju to follow. The sun was almost complete set now, and crickets could be heard as they played their tunes. Shinju stayed close, sure not to bump into any new strangers or get lost. As they reached a bunch of apartments, Cirrus stopped in front of one of the doors. “Wait here.” he said as he walked around the other side of the building. After he explained the situation to his clan and received the key to the spare room, he returned. “I’ve got the key. They’re fine with the idea as long as you keep the room nice. Don’t worry about paying any rent either, we’re wealthy enough as is.” He smiled, handing her the key to her new home. “Thank you…” she said in a soft voice. She looked to the ground, she didn’t enjoy taking anything that wasn’t rightfully hers either. “You’re welcome. It’s not that big of a deal anyways.” he comforted her. Shinju looked up, her eyes shining in the moonlight. She inserted her key in the keyhole, opening the door. Turning around, she smiled. “Goodnight Cirrus…” He simply stood there, smiling faintly back. “Goodnight.” With that, she shut the door behind her. Shinju walked over to her new bed, guiding her hand along the sheets. They were amazingly soft, making her think they might be silk. Taking her sleep attire out of her pack, she changed into more comfortable clothes. Then she climbed into bed, immediately falling asleep. It had been a long day, and tomorrow would surely be just as interesting.

~~~~~

~~~~~

A New Beginning

It wasn’t long until Shinju enrolled herself in the academy. After a week or so of getting to know the town and her newly found friends, she couldn’t wait to start her path of becoming a Konoha kunoichi. The town seemed really kind and organized from what she could see. She wouldn’t mind meeting new people at the academy either, though she was still nervous. Shinju was starting to think that for once in her life, she made a good decision, and this time, no one could keep her from her dreams.

The first day at the academy wasn’t too bad. As soon as she walked into the classroom, she came across a bunch of noisy kids. They were all teasing each other, throwing paper airplanes, and placing childish bets on who would graduate and who wouldn’t. Though, there was one person who stood out in the crowd, a young female. She had longer hair than Shinju, deep blue eyes, and wolf-like ears. She was most certainly unique. She was sitting at the back of the class, silent, a book in hand. Her expression made it obvious that she was irritated with the lot of kids being obnoxious. For some reason, Shinju didn’t feel that different from her. They seemed to be the only two girls in the classroom, and they were both quiet. Hoping to make a new friend, she approached and greeted the girl with a simple “Hello.” As she did, everyone in the classroom stopped what they were doing and stared. Whispering could be heard. “Who’s the new girl? Does she know who she’s speaking to?” The girl slowly put down her book. “May I help you?” Shinju’s heart stopped beating a moment. She looked around the room at all the astonished faces, then back at the girl. “I’m sorry…I just thought I’d introduce myself…” The girl sighed in disgust, then replied. “Sooo…Are you going to tell me you name then?” A boy in the class spoke up. “Rin, stop it. She’s new and is just being nice and polite, something you should do more often.” Rin turned to the boy, and snapped back. “Mind your own business Jaden!” Then, she turned back to Shinju. “Rin Ukiku. What’s your name again?” Shinju stared for a moment, then spoke up. “Oh…umm…I’m Shinju Yuzuki…Nice to meet you Rin…” She smiled warmly at the wolf-like girl, hoping to lighten the mood. “Shinju? That’s a different name. Anyways, I’ll see ya around. I need to finish reading. I won’t rest until I find more information on my clan. Later.” With that said, Rin put the book back and walked off out of the classroom. Although she couldn’t be sure, Shinju was happy to have made another friend.

The academy year came and went, she made new friends here and there. With a sense of accomplishment and the unknown feeling of joy, Shinju graduated the academy in no time, at the age of fourteen. It was just as Cirrus and Orochi said, she had no problem at all. Equipping her newly awarded leaf headband, she dashed off to the spot she trained where she first met Orochi and Cirrus. As she thought, someone was there. It was Cirrus, and he seemed to have been stopped and staring at the scenery. Shinju slowly and quietly approached him, Cirrus turning to her presence. She stopped dead in her tracks, then when she realized he wasn’t disturbed, ran to his side. “I graduated, just like you said…” She said, pointing to her headband adjusted around her waist. Cirrus smiled and teased her. “Told ya so.” Shinju smiled back, and asked him a question to keep the conversation going. “That means we’re both Genin, right?” He began to walk. “Uh huh. You should be assigned to a team of three soon. They’re probably finding a Jounin for the job now as we speak.” Shinju followed him. “A sensei? I can’t wait to start training as a kunoichi of Konoha…” As they continued walking, Cirrus continued to answer her. “Yep. Your sensei is responsible for training you and two other shinobi as well as leading you on missions. I’m sure you already know that from the academy though.” Shinju nodded. “Mhm…” Cirrus began to slow down some, then stopped completely. “Well, I’m off to train with my team. We’re going on a mission tomorrow, and we have to be prepared. Even if it is a simple task, there’s nothing wrong with being safe than sorry.” Shinju paused too, then looked up at Cirrus. “Oh…Okay then…I’ll see ya around…?” Cirrus smiled. “Yea, see ya.” Then they parted, he walked to his team’s training grounds, Shinju turning back to her own.

Claiming the Ranks

Missions as a Genin were quite easy for Shinju. They usually included simple tasks, such as delivering packages, finding lost kitties, and other minor village problems. They even began to bore Shinju. She’d been assigned to the Jounin, Drake, and two other Genin, Brad Lee Uchiha and another boy. They were given the title Team 1. She respected Drake, for he was slightly strict yet kind and he got his point across. As a plus, he was apparently a good friend of Cirrus’. Learning and training under him was definitely a lot easier than trying to pay attention in a crowded classroom. She got along with Lee quite well, for he was a lot like Orochi in a good many ways. Drake would even take them for ramen on occasion, which was always a treat. Little did they know, their loved sensei wouldn’t be around for long.

As usual, Jounin were sent on private missions at times under the Hokage. Drake was sent to retrieve a Genin who had been missing for a day or so. It didn’t seem like that difficult of a mission, but the outcome changes when a trap is set. The Genin wasn’t just missing in action, he had been kidnapped by the infamous Akatsuki and taken hostage. Completely unaware of this, Drake walked right into their trap. As he arrived at the spot of the missing Genin, he was ambushed. He quickly set free the Genin and sent him on his way toward the village. As the boy made his escape, Drake fought off the two Akatsuki members in hopes to stall them. What he didn’t know was they weren’t interested in the Genin at all, but were looking for much greater fish to fry. In his heroic and selfless act, he gave his life to save a young boy with a great future. Even so, it was a great loss to all in the village. He left behind a devastated lover, friends, his team of three, and many others he touched in his short lived time as a Jounin of Konoha.

Shinju happened to be wandering the streets as a man by the name of Hodaka Hyuuga carried what was left of Drake’s body into the village. People crowded around as he stopped, mourning his death. Unaware of what all had happened at the moment, Shinju slowly approached the scene. Her heart nearly stopped as she laid eyes on the man who was her sensei. Shinju fought to hold back tears, some leaking here and there. He was a true shinobi, giving his life to complete his mission. A true shinobi wouldn’t cry over such a thing, she kept telling herself this. Villagers questioned Hodaka on how such an incident happened and who had done such a thing. Cirrus happened to be passing by as well, and immediately recognized the body. He rushed over to the crowd of people, pushing his way through. Drake’s lover cried out as she saw his lifeless body in Hodaka’s arms, he face as white as a ghost. Cirrus just stared at his body, then slowly drawing his eyes to the ground. Shinju couldn’t hold back anymore, tears rolled down her cheeks. With such as rush, she began to feel lightheaded, and fell to the ground as she tried to control herself. Finally Cirrus noticed her presence, walking over and sitting beside her. Almost completely emotionally unstable, Shinju bit her lip in resisting the tears again. He held her close, in a hug, attempting to calm her. Giving in, Shinju let out several sobs, her head against his chest. He escorted her home and stayed with her the rest of the evening. Exhausted from crying, it didn’t take long for Shinju to fall asleep. Cirrus rested himself on the floor until she closed her eyes, then he opened the door and sat outside, staring at the moon and stars all night. Waking to the sudden draft, Shinju looked at the open door and Cirrus. Sleepily, she made her way to the front porch and plopped herself down beside him. After that, all was silent. Not many words were made, only thoughts. He stayed until sunrise the next morning.

Not long after Drake passed, Team 1 became entrants in the Chuunin Exams. Surely enough, Shinju passed the written test with ease. Then, with no surprise, Shinju and Lee were paired in the Forest of Death. They made their way though the dark and captivating wood, somehow avoiding other ninja. As they made their way to the end, a team of three from the grass stopped them in their tracks. Shinju used her trained sand attacks to capture and apprehend all three of her opponents, while Lee took one of them out with his taijutsu. Shinju took care of the other two with her crushing sand, Lee’s opponent hiding while he thought he’d taken care of him. With her Ayamugan, Shinju was able to predict and pin point his position and take him out with ease as well. With great satisfaction, Shinju and Lee proceeded to the tower.

As Shinju and Lee took part in the third and final part of the tournament, they were soon separated and put against their own individual opponents. Shinju ended up facing Gabriale Kyru, a unique shinobi who specialized in archery. He was the perfect match for her sand and wind based jutsus. In the middle of the fight, she wasn’t even sure if she would have been able to put up a good fight. Gabriale’s speed and accuracy with his arrows were remarkable, but after defending herself several times, Shinju found and opening to attack and end the fight. After a long struggle and a good amount of chakra lost, Shinju finally claimed victory. If it wasn’t for her Ayamugan, she may have never won. Showing fair sport, she walked up to her opponent and shook his hand. She complimented him on his fighting skills, claiming it a close call and hoping to meet up with him again some other time, on more friendly terms.

At the age of fifteen, Shinju had made the rank of Chuunin. She was given more complicated missions in teams with other Chuunin. No matter how difficult, Shinju completed each mission without fail. When she wasn’t on missions, she was training or hanging with her friends, Orochi, Rin, Mitsu, Lee, and Gabriale. On a few of her missions, she was lead by one of her best friends, Rin. After their first encounter at the academy, both young ladies had respect for one another and started running into each other more often. Although very different, Shinju and Rin were also a lot alike. Putting aside their differences, they were able to create a strong friendship between the two.

~~~~~

~~~~~

New Family

A couple of years passed, and little by little, members of the Yuzuki clan kept popping up in and near Konoha. Soon enough, there was a descent enough amount of members to create clan headquarters. With the help of her friends, and the Hokage, she was able to make a living space for everyone, including herself. She was able to move out of her old apartment Cirrus had provided her, causing her much excitement and anxiety. Cirrus was seen around much anymore, and this worried her. Trying to put her mind at ease, she assumed he had a lot of important missions as a Jounin to attend to. Now, she needed to focus on her clan. Shinju was appointed leader of the Yuzuki clan in Konoha, and strived to teach her fellow members correct meditation and performance of clan jutsus. In the process, she heightened her own abilities. Being a leader definitely posed itself a difficult job, especially for Shinju. Every choice she had to make for her clan, she revised in her mind over and over again until she found the best possible decision with the best possible outcome for everyone.

Awhile after turning eighteen, Shinju decided to also take up the responsibility as an academy teacher, as her mother did before her. She had some of her clan members as students, and surprisingly enough, Cirrus had taken on teaching as well. Shinju was appointed teaching Battle Practice, and Cirrus was down the hall teaching Tactics. Being an academy teacher was busy itself, so they didn’t see each other much, even though they worked in the same building. Her career was quite successful, and her training for her clan was just as great. One day, upon returning home from work, Shinju came across a young boy sitting outside the clan quarters. It was pouring down rain, and sure to storm. She approached the boy, comforting and offering shelter. He was so small, she wondered why a boy his age was out alone. She questioned whether he was lost, but he shook his head. Shinju couldn’t seem to get much out of him, but one thing she did know for sure, he didn’t talk much. Finally, using her telepathy, she was able to understand his situation. Coming to the conclusion that the boy was homeless, she adopted him as her son. His name was Takeshi, and was only nine at the time. Her fellow clan members had no problem with this, and seemed to get along quite well. They were all one big happy family, something Shinju had never experienced before in her childhood. Therefore, she held each and every one of them dear to her.

Each day, she taught her students in the academy, returned to the clan quarters to train her members, as well as herself, then rested for a new day. It was routine now, every so often a slight change in her day. An afternoon, upon her walk home, she caught up with Orochi, and his friend whom he made in his travels, the one called Zetsumei. He was pretty tall, with white spikey hair. Orochi spoke of his training under Zetsumei and his decision in staying in Konoha as a new resident. Shinju welcomed him as any other friend of a friend, and hoped to become acquainted. Every so often, she’d run into the man. On one occasion, she ran into at a bar, completely and utterly nervous. He was trying to work up the courage to propose to the women he loved, but doubted she would accept his proposal. Shinju encourage him, and lifted his spirits. In no time, he was out the door and ready to ask the women of his dreams to marry him. Shinju was happy for her new friend on finding love, and immediately wondered where Cirrus might be. She left the bar that evening, intending to follow her usual routine, and did just that.

Shinju hadn’t heard from anyone of her friends lately, and was beginning to believe she had lost them. One cloudy evening, she was out walking and ran into Orochi again. Seeing him brought a smile to her face, but when she noticed his expression, it slowly faded. He looked as if he had seen a ghost, his skin was as gray and pale as the rain clouds above. She saw the scratch across his headband, and knew why she hadn’t seen him. Although he was a Missing Ninja now, she felt him no threat and approached him anyways. He told her how glad he was to see her face again, bringing a smile to her face once more. His face was serious, and unusual look for him. Shinju became worried at his new expression. He didn’t speak much, but gave her a gift. It was a cross necklace, his cross necklace. Orochi told her it was for he to remember him by, that he didn’t need it anymore. With that said, their short conversation ended and he was off into the distance. After that day, Shinju wore his necklace around her neck from that day on. Little did she know, not even a day after he left, he was murdered by the same man who had brought back Drake’s body so many years ago, Hodaka Hyuuga. Word never got to her, so Shinju never heard about Orochi’s death, but still continued to wear his necklace.

A few months later, Shinju was meditating on her clan training grounds when she was interrupted by a familiar face. Zetsumei had come for a visit, and possibly more. He asked her on a date after explaining that the women he proposed to had turned him down. She felt for sorry for the man, and took him up on his offer. Shinju hadn’t been on a date before, the closest thing she had to a date was when she, Orochi, and Cirrus all had a meal at the Ichiraku Ramen Bar. He let her chose, but she didn’t know of any other restaurants other than the ramen bar. Instead of taking her there, he took her to a much fancier place. He ordered both their meals, and as they waited, violinists played beautiful music as their shadows flickered in the candlelight. The meal was absolutely delicious, and she even had herself some wine. Little did she know, Zetsumei had yet another surprise in store for her. He escorted her to a room, a suite. Zetsumei told her that it was for the two of them, that he had made reservations. When they entered, there ended up only being one bed. He scratched the back of his head. “I thought I told them two beds. Umm…I can sleep of the floor if you want.” Shinju stared at the bed, then Zetsumei. After such a lovely dinner and his kindness, she couldn’t let him sleep on the floor, so she shook her head. “No…I couldn’t let you do that…” No matter how awkward, she felt the need to be polite. With that said, Zetsumei immediately jumped into bed. “Well, I don’t know about you, but I’m tired.” He patted the opposite side of the bed, signaling for her to lie down as well. Shinju attempted a smile, then looked around some more. “I’m going to change into more comfortable clothes...” Zetsumei pointed at another door. “There is the bathroom, if you feel more comfortable changing in privacy.” Shinju simply nodded, opened the door, and entered. When she returned, Zetsumei appeared to already fallen asleep. Gently, sure not to wake him, she moved the covers and lay down beside him. To her surprise, he spoke. “Goodnight.” Slightly startled, she muttered back. “Goodnight…”

Shinju awoke the next morning to the sun hitting her face and birds chirping their songs. When she opened her eyes, she noticed Zetsumei wasn’t where he was when she went to sleep. She sat up, rubbing her eyes. Soon enough, he entered the room from the hall, and greeted her. “Good morning.” Shinju looked at him, then smiled warmly. “Good morning to you as well…” After a long awkward silence, he set down on the bed and spoke up again. “There was a reason I took you to dinner last night.” Shinju just tilted her head. “I’ve been meaning to talk to you about something.” he continued. She yawned, then replied. “What is it…?” He stood back up, Shinju sitting on the edge of the bed now, bringing herself to her feet. “I have a son. His name is Uryu. I know this is sudden, but I need to ask you something important.” She rose to her feet, rubbing her head. “A son…? Please…Continue…” A long sigh exited his mouth as he spoke once more. “He’s young, and needs a mother. Ironically enough, the women whom carried him, and who I first loved, was a Yuzuki, just like you.” This caught Shinju’s interest, as her eyes widened. “A Yuzuki…?” Zetsumei nodded. “I’m afraid she left him to me, and I’m unaware of her location. Would you happen to know a female Yuzuki with similar appearance as yours?” Shinju shook her head. “No…I’m sorry, I don’t…” He looked to the ground, then raised his head again, with a small smile on his face. “You remind me of her a lot ya know, in so many ways. You’re well with children too.” A puzzled expression covered her face and she replied to him in confusion. “I’m sorry, I don’t really understand…What do you mean…?” Zetsumei turned to her. “Uryu really needs a mother right now, and I think you’d be perfect.” Her expression immediately changed to astonishment. “Are you trying to convince me to adopt your son...?” He simply chuckled and shook his head, then getting down on one knee, made his proposition. “Close, but there’s a little more to it.” Shinju just stared at him, failing to find words. “Will you marry me?” His voice was sincere as he finally got to his point. Unsure of how to react or exactly what to say, she finally answered. “Y-Yes…” A grin stretched across his face as he pulled her into a hug and fell back onto the bed. “I love you Shinju Yuzuki.” Shinju fell with him, and returned the words. “I love you too Zetsumei…” A smile appeared on her face as he held her in his arms, for once she found happiness.

The wedding was set to take place in a few days, and Shinju was busy making preparations. She had already officially met and adopted Uryu, giving her two sons including Takeshi. Everyone was excited and couldn’t wait, and Uryu’s hope of having a real family was restored. His father was everything to him, and now he had a mother too. It seemed like nothing could take that away from him now, he felt safe. After running a day’s worth of errands, Shinju returned home that evening. As she entered her room, a mysterious man broke through her window. Startled and confused, Shinju couldn’t put up a good enough fight and was tied up, knocked out, and kidnapped. He placed a cloth around her mouth so she couldn’t speak, then took off into the dark depths of the forest. When Shinju finally came to, Zetsumei had already arrived to her rescue. It appeared he knew the kidnapper, and it was a plan set up to pick a fight with Zetsumei. Her fiancé quickly picked her up and took her to a nearby cave where he freed her. Then, just as quickly, he returned to the criminal to finish him. Instead of running off to safety, she stayed and watched Zetsumei fight in hopes the battle wouldn’t last long. To her surprise, it lasted horribly long. As both gasped for air, they prepared their final attacks. Shinju could only sit and watch in suspense, like a horror movie happening in front of her. Both ran at each other, full force, jumping into the air the land the final attack. After a huge boom and blast of light, Shinju opened her eyes to find both men lying on the ground. This time, they were fighting for life. Tears rushing down her face, Shinju ran to Zetsumei’s side. “D-Don’t go…Please don’t leave me…Please…” She sobbed, putting her head to his chest. “Take…good care…of Uryu…” he mumbled. “No…Don’t go…” She listened to his heart beat as it became rapid, then suddenly slowed. “No…” she said under her breath. “I…I love you…” he said with his final breaths. For awhile, Shinju just sat there staring at him in silence, crying. It was the last time she saw him. In returning home, she had to explain the news to Uryu and Takeshi. Unfortunately, Takeshi hadn’t been seen for quite some time and was said to have been kidnapped as well. Shinju revealed the news to Uryu, he didn’t take it well at all. He ran away that night, leaving Shinju with her lonesome. All her friends seemed so distant now, her clan was all she had. She cried herself to sleep, hoping it was all just a bad dream, not a living nightmare.

~~~~~

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Moving On

Days passed, and news eventually got to everyone else on Zetsumei’s death, including Cirrus. He had been out of town when all this occurred, so was unaware that Shinju was going to marry him as well. While Shinju was on a walk, thinking about the past events, Cirrus spotted her. Joining on her walk, he tried so show his sympathy. It was mostly small talk, for Shinju didn’t care to talk about it. They walked off the path, leading to a cliff, the ocean roaring below as the waves crashed again the earth. Staring off at the ocean, she kept her emotions bottled up, numb and broken. Talking with Cirrus was something she didn’t expect, the last time she saw him, he was distant himself. His memory of the people he loved and cared for seemed to be erased then, but this time he seemed more stable. As she focused on the ocean, the only thing it restored was forgotten memories of Zetsumei, rather than the peace she hoped for. He could see her heartache, hurting him as well. Trying to ignore her memories, in the process she became colder when she spoke. As Cirrus tried to comfort her, she acted as if she were pushing him away. Unaware of her own actions, she didn’t see the pain she was causing him. For a moment he broke down, catching her attention. Finally aware of what she had done, she walked over to him pulling him into a hug and holding him close. After she thought she had comforted him, he got up and slowly made his way to the ledge. As he got closer, she rose and walked to him, increasing her pace as she realized what he was doing. Putting herself if front of him on the very edge of the cliff, she began to use her levitation as she backed up, staying afloat over the rigorous ocean water below. “You jump, I lose concentration and fall with you…” she said in a somber voice. Cirrus just stared at her a moment, then made his choice. Reaching out for her, he pulled her into a hug. “Forgive me.” He took out a tranquilizer needle, carefully pushing it into her arm while he restrained her. Those were the last words she heard before she went unconscious.

Shinju was out for quite sometime, Cirrus carrying her as he made his way through the forest they had passed awhile ago. When she awoke, she was tied up on a roof, her weapons taken and set at his side. She looked around, disoriented and confused. Then her focus stopped on Cirrus. “Why…Why did you do that…?” she asked him. Cirrus simply looked over, acknowledging her consciousness. “…I don’t know…” he replied. Shinju just sat there looking at him for awhile, and then directed her attention at the moon and stars above. “Why am I tied up…?” was her second question. “…I don’t know…” he repeated. She kept her gaze at the moon. “Can you untie me…?” she questioned, yet again. Cirrus nodded, and then carefully walked over to her. He gently untied her, his touch tickling her some. When he was done, she stayed where she was and stared at him for a bit. “You don’t have to stay if you don’t want.” he said, turning his attention to the night sky. Even so, she stayed put, gazing at the starry sky as well. It was silent for a few moments, and then he moved to the edge of the roof, Shinju scotching herself too. She didn’t intend on leaving without some kind of answer to all the current events.

Then he decided to lead her to a lake. Using his knowledge on water walking, he stepped across the surface. Shinju stood at its bank, staring at the liquid if fear. She had a fear of water, and therefore couldn’t swim. Eventually, Cirrus coaxed her to try and walk across it first. He helped her every step of the way. Once they reached the middle of the lake, he released his technique and sank in the water. Shinju’s concentration broke, she fell too. Unlike Cirrus, she panicked and clang to him due to her fear. After convincing her she was fine and that she would float, he let go. Calming herself, she stayed afloat. Then Cirrus decided to go for a swim, going underwater. She watched him, making sure he was okay as well. After a few minutes of him not rising to the surface, Shinju went under to try and find him, despite her inexperience of swimming. When she found him, he looked as if he had drowned. Panicking again, she tugged at his arm and tried to pull him up, losing air of her own. Unaware that Shinju had been worried, he opened his eyes to see her struggling as she pulled him. He grabbed her and swam to the top, Shinju gasping for air. “You okay?” he asked in a worried tone. After catching her breath and realizing they were both safe, she responded in confusion. “I’m fine…but I thought…” Cirrus smiled in relief. “I’m fine too. I didn’t mean to scare you.” Shinju sighed, and then smiled warmly. Not too long after, she wanted to return to shore. Although she was slightly over her fear, that didn’t mean she liked water. Both walked to dry land, Shinju shivering. As water dripped from her body, bumps formed all over in reaction to the cold. She sat in the grass, staring at the sky as it began to lighten. The sun would rise soon, and they had been out all night, they both needed rest. Shinju lied against the trunk of a tree as Cirrus made himself comfortable on a limb. Both slept until noon. Cirrus was the first to wake, and took of into the wood. When Shinju awoke to his absence, she headed into the forest looking for him. As she finally caught up, his back was to a tree. She tilted her head in question at him. “Why did you leave…?” she asked. He looked at her, shaking his head. She assumed he wasn’t sure himself. Shinju sighed as she realized how long she had been from the village. “You should return home.” he stated. She looked to the ground. “Where are you going to go…?” He looked down too. “I have business out of Konoha.” Shinju looked back up at him, puzzled. “Business…?” Cirrus’ eyes kept focus on the ground. “I suppose you could come, but you probably should stay with your clan. They need you.” She looked away, sitting against the tree. “What if I don’t want to leave you behind…?” Cirrus finally looked at her. “It’s your decision, but you should really think it through.” Silence again, both deep in thought. After debating in her head, Shinju came to her conclusion. Whether she liked it or not, Cirrus was right, her clan needed her. They were her only family now; she couldn’t leave them behind either. The thought also hurt her. “I guess I should return…” she said, breaking the long silence. Cirrus nodded. As she walked through the wood back to her village, she wondered if she made the right decision. The more she thought about it, the harder it was on her. She paused, stopping dead in her tracks. She wanted to turn around, but if she looked back, she knew she would tear. Finally, she began to walk again. Then she ran, all the way back to the village gates, her eyes filled with tears. To her, that was the most difficult decision in her life.

Shinju returned to her clan, taking on her usual routine again. She dropped her academy teaching, providing her more time to regain her love for art. Every masterpiece she ever created was hung in the rooms of the clan quarters, mostly her room. Her painting seemed to give more life to the world around her, something she needed. Though as time passed, she became more and more lonely. Her clan was diminishing again, most of her members seeking the life of a wanderer. For a good long time, she even considered taking up such a life. Her mind was quickly changed as she came in more contact with old friends again. She saw Rin a lot more now, and apparently she was pregnant with Mitsu’s child. Instead of questioning the awkward situation, Shinju supported Rin in anyway she could. Unfortunately, Mitsu’s love had move on to another women, so Shinju’s support became greatly handy. Occupied with new situations, Shinju never heard from Cirrus after they parted what seemed like so long ago.

Four years passed, Shinju grew up a lot. Her knowledge expanded as well as her patience. Sadly enough, the former Hokage mysteriously disappeared and was proclaimed dead. Although, due to her experience, Shinju became a Jounin ANBU through appointment. Her new responsibility kept her occupied and gave her more hopes to a better future. She even became determined to restore her clan name again, awaiting the appearance of more Yuzuki in the area, and if possible, she’d search for recruits. Either way, she was prepared for change. If she wanted to move on in life, she was going to have to give up her time to plan and make possible. Her new rank gave her some anxiety, as she wasn’t sure if she could meet the expectations of an ANBU. Even so, she trained herself more. She could hide her emotion some more now, strategize quicker, and problem solve more than ever. In training herself, she also came up with ways to combine her love for things with her fighting style. In doing this, she learned to put art in her techniques, making her job a little more enjoyable. Shinju began to improve on her genjutsu, and different ways in using her fan. She began to study the mind more, hoping to develop new techniques for her clan. She is still making progress, and hopes to impress her fellow ninja…

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I know the history behind her XXD so not gonna read all of it... ^^ but all the jutsu seem fine so I will call the aproved