Dead Rivers (223)

[Ańbu Juniør]

This post marks the beginning of my mission using these storyboard elements:

- Defeat a large group of Undead (4)

Summary: Kōtetsu and his ninken continue to fight against the undead army.

---

Coming from: Veskal's Exchange

During my travel, I'd witnessed first hand the trail of death and destruction the undead had left in their wake. It made me shudder to think of what they would do once unleashed upon the western continent, and specifically Zhouhua. I was more determined than ever to put a stop to them here before their forces could spread. I'd come to learn that Dead Rivers served as an important location due to being a place of convergence for several important rivers that ran through central Tobusekai. This meant that while I didn't have to be as careful of my surroundings as I was when dealing with the undead army in The Last Bastion, it wouldn’t be wise to drastically alter the terrain.

“I hate dealing with these filthy creatures,” Solaire whined. “Their putrid stink is making me nauseous.”

“Deal with it. Would you rather eradicate them here or have them spill over into our homeland?”

The ninken muttered something under his breath, to quiet for even me to hear, and trudged off to go deal with some of the undead. Though I told him to deal with the smell, it was starting to get to me too. I took to small pieces of cork and inserted them into my nose, opting to breathe through my mouth as I passively activated the night vision eye enhancement I'd gotten from The Spider in Veskal’s Exchange. The moonlit landmark suddenly adopted a green hue as the enhancement illuminated the area. I took hold of Caladbolg's hilt and pulled it free from the clasps that held it in place across my back. The only black blade gleamed as the light reflected off of it. I channeled my lightning chakra into it, increasing its vibrating frequency and giving it more cutting power before binding the enhancement to the weapon indefinitely.

“I’ll go with Solaire,” Sirris informed me mentally as the undead took notice of me and began heading in my direction. It was rare for her to unmerge from me. She spent so much of her time either sleeping or simply observing that I’d sometimes forget that the multiple tails that sprouted from my lower back belonged to her. “Are you sure?” I asked.

“It’ll be good to get some exercise every now and then,” she replied as she unmerged from me and quickly caught up with her brother off in the distance, leaving Sif as the only ninken housed within me.

‘Be careful,’ I said telepathically, ensuring that both of them would hear me, and returned my focus to the horde of undead coming towards me. I held Caldbolg outward as I began spinning at ferocious speeds in the form of an upright vortex and added a specific rhythm to my rotation to generate air pressure that I released as a unidirectional shockwave of cutting wind that slicked apart the undead it came into contact with, lessening their number a bit before plunging into them. It might have seemed reckless, but I had my armor to protect me from any unexpected damage, and my greatsword easily cut through the rotting flesh and exposed bones of any undead in my path as I haphazardly danced across the battlefield.

****​

Sirris and Solaire watched as their pack brother relentlessly cut down large numbers of the undead. “Let's get to work too,” Sirris barked as she lowered her stance and channeled chakra into her tails to increase their length and empower them to the point they could easily pierce, tear and rip through the undead.

“Right!” Solaire replied excitedly. It was rare for him to fight alongside his sister, so he couldn’t help himself. As she elongated her tails, he channeled his chakra and released it throughout their body, causing his fur to stand on end and vibrate at ferocious speeds. Without warning, he began to spin across the ground at high speeds in the form of a buzz saw wheel, plunging himself into the army of undead as his pack brother did. His vibrating fur shredded the flesh and bones of the undead as he rammed into them. Sirris followed in his wake, whipping her tails about to slam and pierce through the undead. She was always aware of the outside world while merged with Kotetsu via his senses, but it was only now when she was fighting the undead herself, did the magnitude of their stink start to overwhelm her.

Solaire ceased his spin as he doubled back beside his sister, making use of his fur to protect her flank as she used her tails to tear apart the undead on her opposite side. For every three zombies and skeletons they killed, six more took their place. They were starting to believe that there was no end to this. That the undead would eventually overwhelm them, but they continued to fight, to thin out their numbers as much as possible.

“You were right, Solaire,” came Sirris's voice.

“About what?” He asked, curious. While fighting alongside his sister was rare, her agreeing with him was even more so.

“This smell is a bit too much. I don’t know how you’ve put up with it for so long.” She sounded genuinely impressed, causing her brother to puff his chest out with pride.

“I am the strongest of us after all, it’s only natural that I can withstand the smell for longer.” he laughed as he spoke, and Sirris immediately regretted complimenting him and remembered that this was why she avoided praising him.

She moved to say something as he tails coiled around a zombie and ripped his body in two, when Kōtetsu’s voice cut her off, “You two, back to me.”

He sounded a bit frantic, winded even, but instead of being worried about him, she was instead glad that he’d interjected before Solaire’s head could swell even further. The two turn to the left where their pack brother was and quickly made for him, mowing down any and all undead in their path.

****​

Both Solaire and Sirris were breathing heavily when they reached me. They’d killed an impressive number of undead, almost more than I did, but there really seemed to be no end to them. No matter how much we killed, it was useless. The only way I could see this ending was to find where they had originated from. By now the horde had surrounded us, and the ninken and I stood back to back as we continued fighting them off, creating piles of unmoving corpses at our feet. I was honestly starting to get irritated.

“We aren’t getting anywhere like this!” I yelled as I swung my greatsword to cut through the heads of six zombies at once.

“I know!” Sirris yelled back as each of her tails pierced through rows of the undead.

“Then what do you suggest we do!?” Solaire asked, thrusting his body into a wall of skeletons and ripping them to shreds.

“I have an idea!” I exclaimed. “You two, merge back into my body and I’ll try getting rid of as many of them as possible.”

The ninken disengaged the undead and quickly retreated into my body as I channeled my steel chakra and released it from every point in my body. The released chakra took the forms of numerous demon-like tendrils that burst forth from beneath the steel wires that made up my armor and rapidly expanded up to mid-range in all directions, impeding every single undead within range before retracting back into my body. I stuck my sword into the ground to hold myself up as I looked at the aftermath. My immediate vicinity was littered with gaping holes and deep gashes, with water from the rivers quickly trickling into them. All around me lay the corpses of the undead, and it was only now that I could see that my fight was far from over.

In front of me lay a number of fortifications manned by a large number of undead.

“F**K!” I shouted in frustration. I was seriously pissed off now.

‘Do you need our help?’ Solaire asked telepathically. ‘No!’ I snapped at him. ‘I’ll take care of it alone.’

I pulled my greatsword from the ground and dragged it behind me as I made for the closest fortification, hell-bent on destroying it.

Techniques used:

Spoiler

(Chō Biburāto Raitontō) - Super Vibrating Lightning Release Sword

Spoiler

Type: Supplementary
Rank: B
Range: Short
Chakra: 20
Damage: N/A (+40 to Kenjutsu/sword-related attacks)
Description: The user channels their lightning chakra into a blade, increasing its vibrating frequency and giving it more cutting power than standard wind techniques.

(Fuuinjutsu: Baundoenchanto) - Sealing Arts: Bound Enchantment

Spoiler

Type: Supplementary
Rank: C
Range: Short
Chakra: 15 (-5 per turn)
Damage: N/A
Description: This seal may only be used on weapons that are in contact with the user. This seal may also be passively applied to the user's weapons or formed onto a weapon the user is holding by expending a move. Only activated when the user is utilizing a jutsu to enhance or otherwise affect said weapon, this seal (which is marked with the kanji for "bind") will activate and drain chakra from the user to fuel said jutsu, even when the user uses another jutsu. It will permanently (or for as long as the user chooses to keep paying chakra) bind the enhancement to the weapon by doing so, as it is constantly being fueled. Each turn the weapon will be able to be used as if the enhancement that was made on it was newly activated, so that they may block and attack with the weapon it was used on without breaking the freeform dodging/blocking rules.
- Only one of these seals may be active at a time on a single weapon
- Only works on weapons

Ōkami Surudoi Kiba | Wolf God’s Piercing Fang

Spoiler

Type: Offensive
Rank: A - S
Range: Short - Mid
Chakra: N/A - 40
Damage: 60 - 80 + (40 = 100)
Description: Ōkami Surudoi Kiba is a technique that combines Kenjutsu and the Gatsuuga and Gatenga rotational methods of the Inuzuka Clan. The user will spin at a ferocious speed toward their target with their weapon held upward, putting it at the tip of their drill-like rotation as air is gathered around them to form a protective shell, protecting them from attacks and techniques up to equal rank. Alternatively, instead of rotating along the horizontal axis in the shape of a drill, the user can spin across the ground vertically, similar to Dance of the Wolf God where they appear as an upright vortex as they rapidly traverse across the ground, with their sword held perpendicular to their body. This allows the user to attack in a 360-degree fashion, and even defend against techniques that come from multiple angles. The A-ranked version of this technique doesn’t require chakra, but when the S-ranked version is used the user will leak chakra from their entire body as they rapidly rotate. This chakra will form a drill-like shell around the user and their sword and can be made of either raw or elemental chakra such as fire, lightning, or wind. The usage of raw chakra will allow this technique to be equivalent in strength to elemental technique due to shape manipulation, while the use of elemental chakra will cause it to adopt the appropriate strengths and weaknesses of the chosen element.

Notes:
- The A ranked version of this technique can only be used four times per battle, while S ranked can only be used twice and requires a single turn cooldown between uses.
- Due to their sharp nails, members of the Inuzuka clan can perform this technique with their bare hands.
- This technique can only be used by members of the Inuzuka Clan.

Fenriru no Tayori | Tidings of Fenrir

Spoiler

Type: Offensive/Supplementary/Defensive
Rank: B
Range: Short-Long
Chakra: 20
Damage: N/A (100)
Description: This allows the user to, when performing a Gatsuuga or Gatenga variant, add a specific rhythm to their violent gyrations that will facilitate the generation of wild air pressure and rapid winds, not at all unlike those of ‘Leaf Dragon God’. The formed vortex(created with the aid of chakra) will span out to a distance thrice that of the users length/height in all directions, and will be created with either a push or pull property. Depending on how the user spins, the air pressure generated by their Gatsuuga will either drag opponents caught within its vicinity to the center of the vortex, or repel them away, both iterations will deal slicing and blunt damage equal to that of the Gatsuuga or Gatenga that spawned it. The created vortex is equal in power to elemental ninjutsu, and the user is capable of separating from the vortex and releasing it in a set direction as a unidirectional shockwave should they so wish.
Notes:
Can only be used 4x
Once used the user cannot use Inuzuka techniques above S rank for the rest of the turn
Can only be performed at the same time as a Gatsuuga or Gatenga variant, and as a result can be performed in virtually the same timeframe as it has no independent usages.
Can be used by either Inuzuka or Ninken.

Kitsune No Shukufuku | Kitsune's Blessing

Spoiler

Type: Supplementary/Defensive/Offensive
Rank: A
Range: Self
Chakra: 30
Damage: 60
Description: Allows a Ninken to channel chakra to their tail and greatly empower it, chakra usage servers to heighten the physicality of their tails to above the norm, which strengthens muscles for various effects; such as allowing for the faster movement of the tail and also implanting iron like strength unto a Ninken's tail - with a strike from a hardened tail being akin to a strike from a steel bar, and also making it prehensile. Chakra released outside the tail serves to create a barrier of chakra which, a Ninken, employing their familiarity of spinning motions from Gatsuuga variants to shape manipulation, will employ violent gyrations to the barrier of created chakra. This will essentially turn a Ninken's tail into a weapon that can be utilized to pierce, tear and rip through enemy structures, while the inwards surge of chakra serves to assist in the manipulation of the now destructive appendage, allowing a Ninken to whip their tail around at rapid speeds, harden it to clash with solids, and also, employing the Inuzuka clan's signature body transformative techniques, lengthen it so that it can extend to up to twice their body size, and then retract again.
Notes:
- Can be used twice per Ninken.
- No Inuzuka techniques above S rank for the rest of the turn.
- Lasts for four turns.
- The offensive force of this technique can be bolstered by use of a Gatsuuga, as the generated centrifugal force is directly translated into destructive power, as it is used to increase the speed and strength at which the tail lashes out, adding +20 damage and making the tails attacks a blur to the naked eye of Sage rank and below Shinobi.
- Naturally this can be used during combination transformations such as Two Headed Wolf Beast.

Fenriru No Busō | Fenrir's Armament

Spoiler

Type: Supplementary/Defensive/Offensive
Rank: S
Range: Self
Chakra: 40 (-10 chakra per turn)
Damage: 80 + (20 = 100)
Description: A problem that many Inuzuka faced was how vulnerable their Ninken were in battle - Ninken were easily struck down by elemental attacks which essentially made them a liability. As such this technique was developed as a defense mechanism for Ninken so that they would be more resilient in fights. By channeling chakra to their skin and fur a Ninken is capable of causing all of their hairs to stand on end and, through the use of chakra, force the erect hairs to vibrate at ferocious speeds. Visually a Ninken's fur will seem to spike up, and then once the vibration begins their figure will seem hazed, ethereal even, as their spiked fur rapidly fluctuates, giving rise to the image of a hellhound or demonic entity. Enemy techniques that come in contact with a Ninken under the influence of this technique will be shredded to pieces and forced to pass to the Ninken's side, leaving them unharmed. Even energy-based techniques such as fire and lightning are neutralized by this defense, with the Ninken's engorged and strengthened flesh serving to protect against any heat or electrical based affliction while chakra will empower the Ninken's fur to become flame retardant. A Ninken is capable of fine-tuning this technique as they wish so that their Inuzuka partners can still freely come into contact with the user. This technique functions as a standard armor and is capable of defending a Ninken from attacks of equal strength. Normal Ninken will have their fur damaged by elemental attacks blocked through the use of this technique, resulting in the armor weakening. High Breed Ninken however, as a result of their enhanced constitution will be capable of quickly growing their hair back by sacrificing 20 chakra, completely restoring the strength of the armor when it is damaged, requiring for the armor to be destroyed in one hit to neutralize this technique.

Notes:
- This technique lasts for up to four turns, unless destroyed.
- This technique can only be used twice per Ninken, and a Ninken must wait for two turns before utilizing this technique again.
- A Ninken can angle their hairs so that they will protect vulnerable spots such as the underside of their paws and the insides of their ears, although the prior is toughened through chakra as well.
- Gatsuuga/Gatenga techniques utilized by one clad in Fenrir's Armament will gain an additional rank, this works on A-rank and below Gatsuuga variations, S rank and above will merely gain a flat +20 damage boost.
- Naturally, the armor will persist during transformations if the user has fur.

Ōkami Kan'nomai | Dance of the Wolf God

Spoiler

Type: Supplementary/Defensive/Offensive
Rank: A
Range: Self
Chakra: (N/A) 30 if used with chakra
Damage: (20) 60 if used with chakra
Description: Employing the use of Gatsuuga concepts, this technique allows for a Inuzuka or Ninken to rapidly spin horizontally or vertically. Unlike the Gatsuuga and Gatenga variants however, this technique is designed for the user to spin across the ground. Inuzuka users tend to spin across a vertical axis, doing so at such speeds that they appear to be an upright vortex that is capable of rapidly traversing across ground. Ninken tend to spin across a horizontal axis, essentially rolling across the grounds at high speeds like a buzz saw wheel, with both being capable of tearing through enemies and lesser structures. This movement can be done without the use of chakra, in which case the user will be limited to traversing across ground at speeds only slightly greater than their top running speed, or facilitated through chakra, in which case the user will be capable of traversing across ground at speeds significantly greater than that of their running speeds as the use of centrifugal force assists in the users directional movement. Ninken will be capable of going up to twice as fast as rolling across the ground puts the generated force to better use (Increased traction, large surface area, etc), while Inuzuka that use a vertical spin will be limited to 1.5x their speed. Additionally the user can transition directly into a Gatsuuga or Gatenga variant through use of this technique, granting the chained Gatsuuga/Gatenga an additional rank.
Note:
- Chakra empowered usages can only be used 4x.
- If used with chakra, -10 chakra per turn if sustained.
Excessive usage of this technique may induce vertigo, as such if used for three turns in a row the an Inuzuka user will experience vertigo that will prevent efficient usage of A rank and above Taijutsu (Reduces their power to B rank)
- When used with Chakra, the created force will be so great that the user will be capable of tearing through or dispersing B rank and below attacks (The movement generated violent air pressure much like other Gatsuuga variants), while A rank and below will neutralize their momentum. A layer of chakra is also created around the user to prevent any adverse effects while doing so.

(Purototaipu: Sensō No Nami No Shihai) Prototype: Dominion Of The War God

Spoiler

Type: Offensive
Rank: S
Range: Short - Mid
Chakra: 40
Damage: 80
Description: The user channels and releases their steel chakra from every chakra point in their body, releasing it outward in a burst of numerous demon-like tendrils that rapidly expand to impale everything around them. As these tendrils are a part of a single central structure, the user, the power of this technique is not divided between the individual tendrils. After expanding to their maximum range, the tendrils will retract back into the user’s body as quickly as they shot out, leaving gaping holes and deep gashes in the surrounding area. Alternatively, instead of releasing them omnidirectionally, the user can instead create the tendrils through his feet and have them erupt from the ground, creating a deadly circle of massive spikes that reach up to 15 meters into the air. When used in this manner, the tendrils disconnect from the user’s body and remain on the field, crumbling after two turns.

Notes:
- This technique can be used twice per battle and requires a two turn cool down between each use.

---

Mission Completed​

 

[Ańbu Juniør]

This post marks the beginning of my mission using these storyboard elements:

- Destroy the undead fortifications (3)

Summary: Kotetsu comes across a number of fortified positions occupied by a legion of undead and proceeds to destroy them.

---

The fortifications created by the undead were made from stone and dirt, making them easy to destroy, but there were a number of them. For a brief moment, I felt the urge to unleash wide-scale destruction. To destroy all of them in one fell swoop, but the damage that would be done to the landmark would cause it to lose its strategic value. Still, even that would be preferable to having them control such an important location. Following the army this far, I could gather that this wasn’t just a mindless invasion. They were clearly searching for something on this continent, and I could tell that whatever it was, should never fall into their hands. Regardless, until we found the point of origin of the army, then it would be useless no matter how much my ninken and I defeated. This would be my next objective, for this fruitless struggle to combat them so deep inland wasn’t one I could or would continue.

Returning my sword to its holster, I quickly weaved four handseals as I channeled my chakra into the earth, giving rise to a thirty-meter tall western composed of liquid caesium from behind me. Upon creation the massive familiar spread its wings and roared fiercely, causing a fun indeed around us to be blown away. The very ground it stood upon began to corrode due to the nature of its elemental make-up.

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I looked to the dragon and pointed upwards as I spoke a command, “fly.” With a beat of its wings it effortlessly lifted into the air and hovered eight meters above me.

Turning back to the undead army held up inside their joke of a fort, I jumped forward and began to rotate my body with such speed that the air visibly rippled in my wake as I moved. This rotation had a specific rhythm that generated wild air pressure and rapid winds that I was able to fire forward as a unilateral shockwave that ripped through numerous forts in its path. The shockwave was quickly followed up by my own rotation as I made use of my sense of smell to identify large clusters of undead to target. It was in this manner that I spun through the landmark, drilling through and undead that came into contact with my immensely powerful rotation, and ripping apart the fortifications littered throughout Dead Rivers.

The liquid caesium familiar followed in my wake of destruction, primarily focusing on the fortifications I had damaged. With his body's ability to naturally corrode solids meant the earthen forts were just minor obstacles in his path. He flew directly into them, covering them one by one with his massive body. The undead writhed in agony as their skins burnt and their bones were eaten away. Any armor they word was useless to stop his corrosive power, and even the very structure of the forts themselves corroded into nothingness, leaving behind only a small mound where the fortification once stood.

I ceased my spin and slid to a stop and watched as my familiar reach havoc on the undead, greatly reducing their numbers while doing little damage to the surrounding area as planned. With all of the fortifications destroyed he rose into the air. His work was done. Similar to my hand motion earlier, I pointed towards one of the rivers some distance away and the dragon made straight for it, plunging into the depths. Immediately as his body made contact with the water, a massive explosion was created that shook the entire area.

My objective was now complete, leaving me free to focus on my new task of finding the origin of the undead. I already knew that the Last Bastions was the first place to be attacked, which meant I would have to backtrack, but the very thought of tracking their scent was repugnant to him. Regardless, it had to be done in order to end this nightmare.

Techniques used:

Spoiler

(Seshiumuton: Surtr No Fōsuobukaosu) Liquid Caesium Release: Surtr’s Forces Of Chaos

Spoiler

Type: Offensive/Defensive/Supplementary
Rank: B - S
Range: Short - Long
Chakra: 20 - 40
Damage: 40 - 80
Description: The user channels their chakra and performs the necessary handseals to create entities made of Liquid Caesium that rise from the earth or are produced through the user’s body. These entities or familiars, vary in size and can mimic the form of anything the user has seen or can come directly from their imagination. They can use their body to attack directly, dealing damage according to their rank, and are capable of performing Liquid Caesium techniques equal to their rank without the need for handseals. Additionally, these entities hold the effects of Liquid Caesium, such as exploding outward and leaving behind blinding smoke upon contact with water or ice, dissolving solids, burning upon contact with the skin, or releasing blinding blue light when exposed to heat.
Notes:
- Created entities can last up to four turns per usage of this technique.
- The familiars created can be no larger than the Great Stone Golem.
- A-rank entities can be created four times per battle, and S-rank ones can be created thrice.
- Creating B-rank entities require a single hand seal and cost -5 chakra to sustain, A-rank requires three and cost -10, and S-rank requires four and cost -15.

Ōkami No Kaminoikari | Wrath of the Wolf God

Spoiler

Type: Offensive/Supplementary
Rank: Forbidden
Range: Short - Long
Chakra: 50
Damage: 90 (80)
Description: Existing as the pinnacle of Gatsuuga or Gatenga variants, Wrath of the Wolf God requires the expenditure of vast amounts of chakra so as to reach staggering gyration speeds. Initiated by channeling chakra throughout the body so as to cushion internal organs and heighten muscle, bone, and connective to place the body in an above peak state, Wrath of the Wolf God will have the user then begin to spin just as they would when utilizing a Gatsuuga or Gatenga technique. The difference, however, lies in the immense amount of chakra that will flow through, and seep out of the user's body. At times the chakra will spin in the same direction as the user, at other times it will spin in the opposite, adjacent or random angles that will generate increased traction for even greater rotations per minute. Regardless of the manner in which the chakra spins, one thing will be certain, that the user's physical spin will far surpass that of any Gatsuuga or Gatenga technique ever demonstrated. So fast in fact, that the air will visibly ripple in the wake of the user as they move, as the user will easily achieve the tops speeds of Dance of the Wolf God, and a howl - said to be that of Fenrir himself will emanate from the user's position. The flaw of this technique, however, is that it is not immediately invoked at its full power. On the turn of its creation Wrath of the Wolf God will only possess the power of an S-ranked attack (it is considered neutral to elemental techniques), however, as the user's rotation speed continuously increases it will, by each passing turn, receive a cumulative +10 damage boost that will allow it to reach its full powered forbidden ranked damage by the turn after it is used. Once Wrath of the Wolf God is started, it can only be stopped by the user or a technique of equal or greater power, against anything else the Gatsuuga/Gatenga will merely momentarily lose momentum, and then immediately recover by the beginning of the next turn, it may be vital, then, for an opponent to stop it in its initial stage, before it can ramp up in power.
Notes:
- This technique can only be used once per Ninken or Inuzuka. If an Inuzuka uses it, then the Ninken cannot use it, and vice-versa.
- The backlash when this technique ending is severe, once stopped the restrictions will take a turn to kick in. On the next turn, the user will, on account of achieving such immense rotation speeds, experience severe dizziness to such an extent that they will not be able to walk properly, halving their speed, and their vision will also be severely impaired as everything will appear blurry. On account of motion sickness, the user will experience severe nausea that will prevent then from using any technique that involves spewing a substance from the mouth for a turn, and their extremities will be racked with pain for two turns.
- If canceled before Wrath of the Wolf God can reach its forbidden ranked power, then the user will only experience the pain backlash, and for only one turn.
- If the complete version is achieved the user will, upon receiving the backlash, be barred from Inuzuka or taijutsu techniques above B-rank for two turns.

Fenriru no Tayori | Tidings of Fenrir

Spoiler

Type: Offensive/Supplementary/Defensive
Rank: B
Range: Short-Long
Chakra: 20
Damage: N/A (80)
Description: This allows the user to, when performing a Gatsuuga or Gatenga variant, add a specific rhythm to their violent gyrations that will facilitate the generation of wild air pressure and rapid winds, not at all unlike those of ‘Leaf Dragon God’. The formed vortex(created with the aid of chakra) will span out to a distance thrice that of the users length/height in all directions, and will be created with either a push or pull property. Depending on how the user spins, the air pressure generated by their Gatsuuga will either drag opponents caught within its vicinity to the center of the vortex, or repel them away, both iterations will deal slicing and blunt damage equal to that of the Gatsuuga or Gatenga that spawned it. The created vortex is equal in power to elemental ninjutsu, and the user is capable of separating from the vortex and releasing it in a set direction as a unidirectional shockwave should they so wish.
Notes:
Can only be used 4x
Once used the user cannot use Inuzuka techniques above S rank for the rest of the turn
Can only be performed at the same time as a Gatsuuga or Gatenga variant, and as a result can be performed in virtually the same timeframe as it has no independent usages.
Can be used by either Inuzuka or Ninken.

-Leaving Landmark-

Travel Itinerary: #223-> #222 -> #218 -> #219 -> #209 -> #210 -> #211
Departing #223 Dead Rivers at 07:44 PM (12/27/20)
#222: 08:44 PM - 09:44 PM
#218: 09:44 PM - 10:44 PM
#219: 10:44 PM - 11:44 PM
#209: 11:44 PM - 12:44 AM
#210: 12:44 AM- 01:44 AM
Arriving at #211 Siren's Lair at 01:44 AM (12/28/20)

---

Mission Completed​

 

[Imperfect]

Coming from #227, Mistheaven.

Additionally, this post contains a mission, using the following Custom Story Element:

Retaking the Dead Rivers. (5)​

Summary: Control of Tobusekai rests on who controls the Dead Rivers. Phetra's incursion cost the Spider hundreds of thousands in Ryo, primarily because his agents stationed in the Dead Rivers were forced out. He has requested you venture into it and wipe out the remains of the undead army that have occupied the land.

---

A vengeful, thunderous roar accentuated by a blinding flash of dazzling gold light were the first indicators of Emiya's arrival in the Dead Rivers, the confused bare-bones skeleton who managed to witness it left dazed long enough for a conceptually unstable Noble Phantasm fired from a golden ripple-like distortion in space-time to impact it, erupting in a colossal explosion that could be seen from quite a distance. Emiya's typically neutral, if not welcoming expression twisted into a gnarled scowl. As another was alerted to his presence, a rattling of bones acting as a rallying cry that there was an intruder, another weapon was fired from a glimmering portal to a stolen treasury of a certain King, or rather, an imitator thereof. It killed him to rely on such an ostentatious Noble Phantasm, and more importantly one that belonged to an enemy who had defeated him, but he would give these monsters absolutely no quarter. They would feel the pain and sorrow they had inflicted upon him a thousand times over. As his steady gait quickened, Emiya pulled his bow out once more. He would be the last thing they never see. These were not the actions of a "Hero" seeking justice. They were those of a scorned Hero fallen low enough to use the harshest weapons in his arsenal, used by the cruelest enemy he'd ever faced. He began loosing wrought-iron arrows at a speed not witnessed in this modern era, each one shattering another undead warrior, scattering what remained of their chitinous bodies to the winds, as the Gates of Babylon opened to their fullest, each one rotating in the air above Emiya, adjusting itself to focus on a distant target while Emiya engaged those immediately ahead of him. From one outpost to the next, he slaughtered these once-human monstrosities, hardly noticing the scarcely populated masses as he tore a path of destruction through the Dead Rivers.

Spoiler: Unlimited Blade Works - Projection

(Kingusugureivu ♕ Busōko) Kingsglaive ♔ Armiger Arsenal
Type: Supplementary/ Offensive/ Defensive
Rank: B-Rank
Range: Short (Portal Creation/ Orbit) Short - Long (Projectile)
Chakra: 20 (Activation) 5 (Per Turn Active)
Damage: 5 - 40 (Depending on the severity of an injury)
Description: The user starts by performing the Seal of Confrontation, drawing blood, channeling Chakra into their hand(s) and performs the Summoning Jutsu for a "Pact" they have with a distant, isolate Land engulfed in boundless armaments. However, instead of Summoning the weapons themselves, the user creates small Space/ Time Portals (similar to the kind formed in "(Doton: Nentsuchi Otoshi) – Earth Release: Sticky Earth Drop"), after which they use Shape Manipulation to mould the shape of these portals, making their general shape identical to that of the weapon the user wishes to Summon. This is done due to the sheer scope of the available arsenal, requiring the user to shape the portal to take the same shape as the visualized weapon, with only that weapon capable of "fitting" through that portal, like cutting a key for a lock. Since these portals are composed entirely of the user's Chakra, they are practically weightless, and their positioning can be controlled by the user at will, allowing the user complete control over their "arsenal" in this state. The number of Portals the user can maintain at any given time is limited to a max of 8, with the user able to freely manipulate the number of portals active at no additional cost. Because of it's massive scope, the user can draw from a virtually infinite arsenal, summoning different styles of weapons from the same type of weapon (For example, in regards to summoning a sword, one has options such as a long-sword, broadsword, rapier, falchion, katana, ninjato, etc, for this one type of weapon, with this example applying to all forms of weapon types). Once the user has selected and summoned their weapons, and have their "arsenal" orbiting their person, they can start to utilize these weapons in combat. Once the portals are directly interacted with, the corresponding weapon is automatically pulled through whether that's into the user's hand, or to deflect incoming projectiles, etc. In the case of the user directly wielding the weapon, this allows them to use the weapon as though they were physically carrying and transporting it, however, as soon as the weapons leave the user's hand/ control, or leave a Short Range radius of the user, the Summoning is immediately undone, reverts the weapon to it's previous state, and returns to orbiting the user with the rest of their arsenal. The only exceptions to this rule are projectiles utilized by ranged weaponry, for example arrows fired from a bow, which are naturally unaffected by this limited range. Finally the user can change the weapons they have with this technique by "visualizing" a different weapon and moulding the portal to fit that weapon, allowing them to switch between various weapons for radical changes in their combat style, however this can only be done on weapons that are not being directly interacted with.

Note: This Jutsu can remain active so long as the user has the Chakra to sustain it. Once deactivated, this technique cannot be used for 2 turns.
Note: Can only be taught by Iᴍᴘᴇяғᴇᴄᴛ.

Spoiler

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Spoiler: Gates of Babylon

(Kingusugureivu ♗ Jūko) Kingsglaive ♘ Arquebus Arsenal
Type: Offensive/ Supplementary
Rank: B-Rank
Range: Short (Portal Creation) Mid (Portal Orbit) Long (Projectile)
Chakra: 20 (Activation) 5 (Per turn active)
Damage: 5 - 40 (Depending on the severity of an injury)
Description: The user starts by performing the Seal of Confrontation, drawing blood, channeling Chakra into their hand(s) and performs the Summoning Jutsu for a "Pact" they have with a distant, isolate Land engulfed in boundless armaments. However, instead of Summoning the weapons themselves, they create small Space/ Time Portals (similar to the kind formed in "(Doton: Nentsuchi Otoshi) – Earth Release: Sticky Earth Drop"), after which they use Shape Manipulation to mould these portals into flat ripple-like distortions in the air. Being composed entirely of the user's Chakra, the portals are weightless, and key characteristics such as the positioning, distance, angle, etc of the portals can be controlled by the user at will, granting them complete control over their arsenal. Unlike with the aforementioned technique however, the portals created for this technique are far less complex and intricate, making their creation easier, allowing the user to create more as a result. The user can create and maintain up to a max of 20 portals, and is able to freely manipulate the number of portals active at will, at no additional cost. Just like with Armiger Arsenal, the user can draw from the virtually infinite arsenal that the Land provides. The portals that the user creates are linked directly to the Land, but don't select specific weapons to arm the user with. Instead the Arquebus Arsenal allows the user to draw from any kind of weapon, usually at random, partially pulling that weapon through the portal, before suspending it in place, then, at the user's command, usually with some kind of gesture or a surge in their Chakra, the portal the weapon is suspended from contracts sharply, firing the chosen weapon at the user's designated target with great speed and precision. Due to the forced contraction of Space-Time firing the weapons like projectiles, the portals emit both a bright flash, and a loud explosive sound, clearly telegraphing which portals are firing. Once this is performed, the portal then selects a new weapon, and repeats this process for as long as the user wishes, or is able to sustain it. Finally, once the weapons have made contact with something tangible, they automatically start to disappear, however this is a slow process than the almost instant reaction the "Armiger Arsenal" possesses, taking 2 turns to slowly "fade away".

Note: This Jutsu can remain active so long as the user has the Chakra to sustain it. Once deactivated, this technique cannot be used for 2 turns.
Note: Can only be taught by Iᴍᴘᴇяғᴇᴄᴛ.

Spoiler

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Though it was faint, with every passing moment a strange construction began to solidify above Emiya. The faintest outline of rust across a large number of initially unidentifiable shapes that seemed to rotate in place, locked in an orbit around the Hero of Justice. As his kill count grew, so did the clarity of these shapes, seemingly feeding off the very concept of merciless slaughter, though the truth was much simpler. He was not killing in the name of justice, nor really for himself. Regardless of his reasons, he was acting as a mere tool, an extension of the Spider's will, clearing the Dead Rivers for him in all but name. The assault they had performed on Mistheaven was just a convenient excuse that helped him rationalize his actions as being for more than one man's selfish ambitions. He wanted desperately to have this be for the greater good, so he retreated within the rage of that destruction, and got to work. The gears slowly manifesting were a betrayal of that self-told lie, that in truth he was nothing more than a machine that forged death. So with every former human enthralled by Phetra mercilessly slaughtered on behalf of that wretched arachnid, that mental landscape from where he drew his power was encroaching upon reality itself, threatening to turn him into a cold, soulless killer, with their endless, steady churning of his ideals, all to spit out tools in the service of the "world".

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Spoiler: Manifestation of Law

(Kamunagara) – Manifestation of Law
Type: Supplementary
Rank: N/A
Range: N/A
Chakra: N/A
Damage: N/A
Description: Kamunagara is not itself an ability that is consciously activated or utilised like one would a jutsu. Rather, it is a product of one’s intent, or emotions, influencing their chakra in such a way that it visibly manifests as a pattern or object that hovers behind or around the user. One such example of this is extreme bloodlust or rage, which has been seen before by Naruto and Zabuza, under the influence of the Kyūbi and sheer force of will respectively. The object, pattern or symbol produced is unique to every ninja, and thus it can be considered as a physical manifestation of their will and being. The color produced is dependent on the type of emotion, e.g. anger will produce red, sadness will produce blue, happiness will produce yellow, etc. While the behaviour of chakra in this technique is able to give off specific auras and incite particular sensations in other people, it cannot paralyse or frighten others on the level of something such as Killing Intent. It also cannot physically interact with or cause any kind of injury to an opponent. This ability, functionally, is passive in nature, as it doesn’t require activation or any form of active input from the user, and is entirely cosmetic.

Spoiler

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Emiya's path of destruction, while cathartic, was followed by a revelation that came far too late. This was too easy. At most he'd managed to kill just under a hundred of these things, and yet there were far more than that number rumored to have attacked Mistheaven not hours ago. To further this suspicion, Spider's intel said the region was overrun, and heavily fortified, and although he wasn't holding back, even Emiya could tell there numbers had been far too thin. As he began to suspect foul play, a hollow, vacuous sound filled the air. It wasn't quite laughter, more like something was sucking the warmth out of the air, and the result sounded like a human's guffaw. Next were the chattering of bones, similarly mocking him with sounds that resembled but were not laughs. It wasn't until the tip of a sharpened bone blade penetrated Emiya's left foot that he got the punch line; he'd waltzed straight into an ambush. As dozens, if not hundreds of bone soldiers began clawing their way out of the ground beneath his feet, Emiya realized what had made that initial mocking sound, and seemed to steal all the warmth and joy from the air. As a colossal skeletal ghost, wreathed in an icy blue veil slowly rose out of the ground, it's pawns followed suit. This is what had lead the assault against Mistheaven, directing the undead forces from the shadows, giving them their commands, maybe even from Phetra herself. If not, it certainly held some authority over the rank and file, enough to where it had ordered them to lure him in to this exact situation. Surrounded, cut off from escape, reinforcements, and marginally wounded, Emiya began to contemplate retreating, but this thing was here right now. If he could take this apparition down, it might disrupt the undead army's endeavors this far East, and give Spider enough of a chance to take back the Rivers.

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With a disbelieving smile, Emiya tensed his arm as he aimed it, and every last portal from the Gates of Babylon on the spectral being before him, loosing a volley that shook the ground with excessive force. As the debris from the attack was sent hurtling into the air, Emiya watched as all of the amassed skeletons made that same mocking sound of chattering bone striking bone. When the dust cleared, he knew why; his attack had no effect whatsoever. Despite releasing an entire nations worth of force on it, the ghost remained unfazed as they had simply passed straight through. It floated defiantly, looming over him like a representation of impending death, though it would not be his death it represented, but it's own.

The skeletal warriors were upon him before he knew what to do next, gripped by fear, and the pain in his foot, Emiya began shooting everything within striking distance with his bow, while he fired the Gates in a 10m perimeter around himself to try and establish a safe zone, but there were far too many told hold such a position. For every one he shot down, three more broke the line, and for every one he managed to shoot down, two were left to swipe at him. Though he still refused to retreat, taking the occasional shot at the Gallû spirit, each one simply passed through as though it were not there at all. Conventional, physical attacks, regardless of their speed, power or nature could not touch this thing. If he wanted to defeat this unconventional existence, he would need to counter it with an equally transcendental attack. But with the horde barrelling down on him, he could hardly line up a proper shot, never mind consider taking stock of what he had that could take on that thing. He needed time and space to breathe, and gather himself. He waltzed into this situation with reckless abandon, so wildly flailing would do nothing but drag him further into oblivion. As he took a second to collect himself with a calm, steady breath, Emiya's hazel gaze became glossed over with an otherworldly white shine.

Spoiler: Minds Eye of the Hawk ᴱˣ

(Migatte no Gokui ☯ Chō hon'nō) Mastery of Self-Movement ☯ Ultra Instinct
Type: Supplementary/ Defensive
Rank: N/A
Range: Short
Chakra: N/A
Damage: N/A
Description: An advanced Taijutsu art, based on the martial art of "(Mushin) Empty Mind", a mental state where the body reflexively reacts without the need of having any specific input from the practitioner, resulting in such refined levels of instinct and intuition to a level where they can respond to any threat without the need for thought. This is achieved via an intense level of training, wherein one is endlessly bombarded with incredibly fast, yet weak strikes, until they eventually grasp the concept of "self-movement", where each part of the body seemingly acts independently of the user's own will. It teaches one to abandon the practice of "thinking before moving", and simply initiate "moving without thinking". This is incredibly useful, as messages from the brain can only move through the nervous system to one's body parts so fast, subsequently losing precious time in combat that add up with every consecutive movement and action. This technique does not increase, or grant any kind of additional boost to the user's movement, tracking or reaction speed in any sense. Instead, it is akin to an automated defensive stance that allows the user to effectively negate any incoming physical attack that they can, visually or otherwise, register, without actually thinking about performing the actions. The body moves, almost as if on it's own accord, to respond to incoming attacks, and attempts to negate, redirect, or counter them in the most logical manner, before proceeding to intercept the next attack. A perfect idiom to describe this stance is "The lights are on, but no one is home", as the user is clearly responding to external threats, yet doesn't always seem entirely "present". One of the many benefits to this technique is that it is purely physical, and, by it's very nature, requires little to no input from the user themselves, especially in regards to their Chakra flow. As their body is reacting instinctively, rather than with directed motions and a proper input from the user themselves, they're free to use their heads to perform other actions, such as analysing attack patterns, potential weak points, and formulate and initiate proper counter attacks, etc. There are significant drawbacks to this technique as well however as, by it's very nature, it can only allow the user's body to react to actions and attacks that they can witness. This means the user cannot use this technique against attacks faster than they can track or logically register due to speed, but also attacks of a deceptive nature, or attack the user in some unregisterable manner, such as attacks that cannot be physically seen, like "Frog Kumite", or attacks that strike outside the user's field of vision. However, in the case of techniques that are directly applied via physical actions, such as in the case of a Shinobi driving a Rasengan into the body of their opponent, the user can divert this incoming threat by redirecting the physical motions of the opponent's strike, "countering" the Rasengan without making physical contact with it, or even ending the technique. [SUP][

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][/SUP] Finally, entering into this stance does not constitute the usage of one of the user's 3 Jutsu per turn, however, if this technique is used to defend against another Jutsu, every instance of a successfully defended technique does consume one of the user's allotted Jutsu from their next turn. When used to defend against freeform actions and movements, no Jutsu slots are consumed. This can, in most cases, force a stalemate in close-quarters combat centric fights, as neither party gains any ground, or inflicts damage upon the other.

Note: Can only be used for a max of 3 turns, and user must wait 3 turns between usages.
Note: Can only be taught by Iᴍᴘᴇяғᴇᴄᴛ, and can only be used by Biographies with a Taijutsu specialty.

Spoiler

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Suddenly Emiya had no issue finding the right openings to weave through to avoid being completely surrounded, his movements became more deliberate, as hesitation was erased from his body entirely, each part moving independently. From one skeletal warrior with an axe-blade for an arm, to another with a large skull for a club on the end of it's arm, Emiya avoided them entirely, drawing a confused, angered warbling from the spirit overseeing the battle. For the first time, it dared to even move, raising an arm to swipe out at the air before it, it's bony, sharpened fingers tearing through the air itself creating a razor-sharp shock wave from each extended digit. Watching the ranged attack come from the ghostly host, Emiya's body adjusted itself to face the attack side-on, allowing it to pass by him harmlessly as he became too slim of a target for the attack to hit. Two more slicing motions erupted out of the fingertips as the ghost slashed at the air in Emiya's direction, which Emiya continued to avoid alongside the thinning hordes of skeletons, which drew out an ear-piercing screech from the towering specter. Clearly it was not amused, and expected things to go differently, yet as far as he could tell, Emiya hadn't killed nearly as many of it's own soldiers with those three swipe attacks alone. Though he wasn't out of danger yet, Emiya was beginning to feel more confident about his position in this fight.

Finding some space to think, Emiya began channeling Wind aspected Chakra into an arrow, the projectile erupting into a torrent of spring green winds. As he released the arrow, it carried through on it's trajectory through three skeletons, before suddenly shifting, altering it entirely, and shot off in a straight line through another row of undead. This carried on two more times before Emiya caught it, then repeated the act, quickly thinning the hordes even more, and leaving only scattered groups, and the spirit left to contend with.

Spoiler: Straight & Arrow Path

(Fūton: Chokusen to Yajirushi no Pasu) Wind Release: Straight and Arrow Path
Type: Offensive/ Supplementary
Rank: B-Rank
Range: Short - Long
Chakra: 20
Damage: 40
Description: The user starts by infusing Wind Release Chakra into a projectile weapon, typically a Bow and Arrow, but other forms of weapons that fire projectiles are applicable, such as blowguns, crossbows, etc. As they infuse their chosen weapon with the Chakra, they become completely shrouded in a light swirling vortex with a faint green hue. The user then launches the projectile, deliberately aiming off-target as a means of faking-out their true quarry, as the shroud channels from the weapon into the fired projectile. As the infused projectile flies through the air at high speed, thanks to the shroud of Wind reducing wind resistance for the projectile, once it reaches a certain point, usually as it is about to fly past the intended target, the user surges their Chakra, activating the shroud's second effect. The majority of the shroud's presence becomes accumulated at one specific point along the shaft/ body/ etc of the projectile, and immediately releases three bursts of Wind, first to halt/ slow the projectile down, second to change its trajectory, then finally fire the projectile in that direction at top speed. The sudden change in the projectiles trajectory, and the process used to achieve this change, is virtually instant, making it very difficult to track without some form of Chakra Sensory or Dōjutsu but not impossible and harder still to defend against, simply due to the tricky nature of the shot. Finally, the user can either apply the shroud to multiple projectiles, such as knocking multiple arrows on a bow simultaneously, or infuse a single projectile with the ability to change it's trajectory multiple times, but with each additional projectile or infusion into a single projectile, the power of this Jutsu is distributed equally amongst them, to a max of 4 projectiles with 10 power each, or 3 consecutive changes in a single projectiles trajectory. Easily utilized for swift and silent take-downs during covert ops, this technique is also very handy for simply outright shooting the user's targets with a blindingly fast, Chakra infused projectile, and was used by a lone Guardian, and legendary Hero of Justice, who only appeared when the world was drenched in warfare, and on the brink of annihilation.

Note: Can be used a max of 5 times per battle, and only once per turn.
Note: Can only be taught by Iᴍᴘᴇяғᴇᴄᴛ.

Spoiler

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Growing weary from the nonstop assault, Emiya was quickly losing steam. With every pull of his warbow's string his arms muscles cried out for relief, with every hasted step to avoid another skeleton's assault his legs threatened to give way beneath his own weight, exacerbated all the more by the wound on his left foot leaving him hesitant to rely on the limb, placing that much more on his right. He'd long since given up using the Gates of Babylon, as the continual drain on his reserves on a technique that would do nothing to his main foe was nothing but a hindrance. The frustration began to show more and more clearly on the lack of the face the spectral entity had, until it reached the point it could take no more. With a howl like a banshee, it willed it's servants lifeless shards to follow it's commands. Emiya watched as countless shards of bone, though not even a fraction of those still littering the plains, rise into the air and converge before being fired directly at him. Instinctually he raised an arm and called upon that memory he'd been shown back in Mistheaven, creating that same petal-shaped shield before him. The Aias burned away countless fragments of the bone shards, though many still broke through, a testament to the sheer density of the swarm that had been fired at Emiya. Each one as sharp as a razor, they penetrated both the Aias, and his flesh, tearing him to ribbons, but the shield remained steadfast against the vast majority of the broken, vengeful last attack these soldiers would inflict. By the end of it, Emiya stood, body covered in grazes and holes, but still very much alive. And more importantly, pissed.

Spoiler: Rho Aias (S-Rank)

(Ritsuton: Pureryūdo ♫ Sensō no Oto) Rhtyhm Release: Prelude ♫ Sounds of War
Type: Offensive/ Defensive/ Supplementary
Rank: E-Rank - S-Rank
Range: Short - Long
Chakra: 5 - 40 (-5/ -10 per turn to maintain applicable applications)
Damage: 10 - 80
Description: The most basic Rhythm Release technique, the user starts by gathering Rhythm Release Chakra, performing a hand seal if necessary, then utilizes Shape Manipulation to mould their Chakra into various applications, before utilizing them to attack their target in whatever manner is logically applicable to the chosen application. There are 3 potential applications, which are as follows; The first is the creation of basic projectiles such as shock waves, streams, blasts, arcs, etc, all of which can be small or large in scale (Larger projectiles becoming available at B-Rank and above), and can carry the same pinpoint accuracy found in select Sound Release Jutsu. The second is the infusion of Rhythm Release Chakra into a medium, such as tools and other forms of weaponry, objects, and even surfaces, either as a form of enhancement for the former cases, or as a means of channelling Rhythm Release Chakra through a medium, like the ground, for covert ranged attacks in the latter. The "enhancement" method is safe for the user to wield in direct contact so long as they don't manipulate their Rhythm Release Chakra at the same frequency and amplitude of the chosen medium, thus avoiding Rhythm Release's "resonance" application, preventing the chosen medium to violently break down and melt. Finally the user can apply Rhythm Release to their own body, enhancing their physical attacks, such as Taijutsu, simultaneously dealing damage from the vibrations and physical attack, and burns from the intense heat upon contact. Despite this seemingly large amount of versatility, the user is unable to achieve complete sustainable changes in their Chakra's shape, meaning they cannot create lasting, tangible/ physical constructs from their Rhythm Release Chakra, such as tools, weapons, etc, due to the inherent erratic nature of Element itself. However, they can mould the general shape of their applications to suit their needs, allowing them to shape their projectiles before or as they fire them, or extend the range of other applications slightly beyond the norm. For example, if the user wishes to utilize the "Taijutsu" application of this technique, they could "coat" parts of their limbs, or their entire body should the application be of a high enough rank (Again, B-Rank and above), in Rhythm Release Chakra instead of simply channelling the Chakra through their limbs/ body on contact with their target. This is useful in creating defensive applications of Rhythm Release, extending their Rhythm Release Chakra in front of them and constantly streaming Chakra to maintain the semblance of a shape, like a shield, which would burn, scorch, melt, etc, as well as bombard incoming projectiles with Rhythm Releases vibrations as they passed through it, destroying them, and defending the user in the process, despite not possessing any "tangible" or "physical" aspects. In this respect, the applications of this technique are only bound by the user's imagination, and the general logic applied to the chosen application.

Note: D-Rank and below projectiles can only attack targets within Short Range, C-Rank projectiles can reach up to Mid Range, and B-Rank and above projectiles can reach up to Long Range.
Note: At the cost of additional Chakra per turn, the user can maintain "applicable" usages for up to 4 turns. These include most basic applications, such as the infusion of Rhythm into a medium, or one's own body, and the creation of defensive shapes, however, this naturally excludes applications of a projectile nature, because once fired, they will no longer be close enough for the user to provide them with additional Chakra to maintain them. For B-Rank and below applications, this costs 5 Chakra per turn, and for A-Rank and above applications, this costs 10 Chakra per turn.
Note: A-Rank applications require at least one hand seal, and can be used a max of 4 times per opponent. S-Rank applications require at least three hand seals, can be used a max of 3 times per opponent, with two turns between uses.

Dropping the Aias after the merciless barrage of bone fragments, Emiya struggled to raise his arm with the weighted bow, but achieved it despite the pain. His body would not thank him in the morning, but if all went as planned, he would indeed wake up. From a tattoo concealed within the intricate circuit pattern on his body, Emiya drew forth a unique arrow, one he'd never used before. As he did, the gears above his head appeared as solid as the genuine article, and their slow pace had begun to quicken. His body was still moving under the effects of it's own autonomous will, though he didn't know exactly was about to happen. The unique, spiral-bladed sword was nocked into his bow, where it flashed to life with an ominous wind, and surge of energy as he spoke those same words of power. Drawing the string back, a sharp surge of pain equally making it's presence known to Shirō, the sword's shape contorted, twisted around itself in that same spiral pattern, elongating as a telltale flash of energy began to hum to life at the tip of the projectile. Seeing this, the spirit began to retreat, silently floating away from Emiya, as it threw a hail of swipes at him, but it was too late. As he let go of the string, the effect was instant. Everything before him stood still for only a second, before the world itself seemed to twist and distort in on itself from his perspective. Space itself was being torn asunder. The swipes were spun around, and fired off in every direction along their X axis, harmlessly carving the ground where they had been stopped by the False Spiral Sword. The Gallû spirit on the other hand was not so lucky. As the target of the technique, it's ethereal body was twisted, then shredded by the projectile, an agonized shriek being the only sound to escape it's form as it was torn asunder, and sent back to Irkalla.

体は剣で出来ている。Karada wa tsurugi de dekiteiru.
「 I am the bone of my sword. 」
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Caladbolg!!​

Spoiler: Void Creation of Blades

(Rentetsu Kyūjutsu: Mu no Kensei) Wrought Iron Archery: Void Creation of Blades
Type: Supplementary
Rank: D-Rank
Range: Self
Chakra: 10
Damage: N/A (+20 to Kenjutsu techniques)
Description: A small seal emblazoned with the Kanji for "虚" or Void, which can be applied to the user's Warbow, their body, or both. Sealed within are a number of Sword-Arrows designed for Wrought Iron Archery techniques, and in the case of the body seal specifically, the user can also store their Warbow. The user activates their seal with a small burst of Chakra and summons forth one of the many Sword-Arrows, which appears in an unoccupied space within 1m, typically within reach of, or summoned into their hand itself. When the user is finished utilizing their Warbow, or alternatively don't wish to fire their selected Sword-Arrow, they can reactivate the seal, returning the selected target back to the seal at half of the cost of activation. Neither drawing nor returning the Warbow or a Sword Arrow from/ to the seal expend one of the user's 3 Jutsu per turn, but can only be performed once per turn, and the user cannot have more than one Sword Arrow at a time. Finally, when a Sword-Arrow is utilized for Kenjutsu, including those that fall outside the realm of the Wrought Iron Archery Fighting Style, the damage is increased +20 due to the weight of the Sword-Arrow increasing the force behind the technique.

Spoiler: Caladbolg - Path of the Arrow

(Rentetsu Kyūjutsu: Caladbolg II) Wrought Iron Archery: False Spiral Sword
Type: Offensive
Rank: A-Rank - S-Rank
Range: Short - Long
Chakra: 30 - 40
Damage: 60 - 80
Description: With one of their unique "Sword Arrows", Caladbolg II, already in hand after being summoned through the "Void Creation of Blades" seal, the user will employ one of two applications unique to the Sword-Arrow, which has a uniquely shaped blade which spirals down toward a jagged point, almost like a lance.

Caladbolg - Path of the Sword: With Caladbolg in hand, the user drives the weapon into their target, as they channel Chakra into it, creating a barrier similar in nature to "(Fusen no Kekkai) Tag Barrier", which possesses physical qualities. They then activate the barrier, which spirals in a similar nature to the sword's design, rotating outwards from the point of impact, potentially shredding the target asunder. The end result is an A-Rank Kenjutsu attack whose effects are similar to that of the Rasengan, rotating the targeted surface, and tearing it apart, albeit with more of a drill-like application.

Caladbolg - Path of the Arrow: Instead of attacking a target with the Sword-Arrow directly, and effectively drilling them, the user instead knocks the unique instrument into their Warbow, and begins to draw it's string back. As they do, they channel the same Chakra into the weapon, giving it a barrier, though in this instance, it's wildly different. Though with the same properties as "(Fusen no Kekkai) Tag Barrier", providing the projectile with a physical barrier, they take it one step further, and add the quality of the "( Kekkai Kireme no Jutsu ) - Barrier Shatter Technique" to it. As they do, Caladbolg's physical form changes, extending while retaining that similar "spiral" shape. Once fired, Caladbolg rotates rapidly, as the barrier and it's imbued "shattering" property allow the projectile to pierce through defensive barriers and structures by twisting and distorting them, allowing Caladbolg to penetrate all but the strongest defenses. The additional Chakra, as well as the increased force from being fired from the user's Warbow make this application stronger than the Sword Application, resulting in an S-Rank technique.

Note: A-Rank application can be used a max of 3 times per battle, and the S-Rank 2 times per battle, with two turns between uses.

Spoiler

Spoiler: Caladbolg - Path of the Arrow

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Spoiler: Caladbolg's Conceptual Design

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A blue streak, akin to a shooting star could easily be seen flashing overhead in a straight line to the south west towards Theodoro as Emiya dropped to his knees, relieved it was finally over. He'd need to take his time getting to his feet, but for the moment, Dead Plains was officially claimed... Then the rattling of bones filled the air, as an acrimonious, bitter wail resonated throughout the Landmark. The bodies and remains of the Irkallan foot soldiers began to shake on the ground, before being pulled, almost magnetically towards a swarming mass of growing bones and tattered cloth. Emiya couldn't believe his eyes, as staring back at him was that same spirit, reborn through the countless bodies of it's fallen soldiers.

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His body, though shred to ribbons, and more than willing to give up, the hero known as Shirō fucking Emiya would not go down so easily. He still had one last trick up his sleeve he could rely on. Closing his eyes, and summoning forth a simple katana, he temporarily relinquished control back to that simple blacksmith. He would be the one to forge this victory. As the eyes opened once more, there was a minute, but noticeable change in Emiya's demeanour. Though physically there was no change, his gaze was as piercing as a hawk, and defiant to match. Embers began slowly drifting from his form, as the Manifestation of Emiya's "Law" changed, the gears glowing red from a rapidly increasing temperature as the slow, monotonous droning of their gears turning began to speed up, like a machine with a proper purpose. That purpose being to forge a sword to defeat this monstrosity once and for all!!

Spoiler: Litmus Form

(Ninpō: Ritomasu Fōmu) Ninja Art: Litmus Form
Type: Supplementary
Rank: N/A
Range: Self - Short
Chakra: N/A
Damage: N/A
Description: A simple technique, with varying applications, Litmus Form takes principles from both of it's related techniques, namely the simplicity of Litmus Finger, and the full body applications of Litmus Fist, and combines them both, to create a full-body application, which is achieved through a very simple method. This technique utilizes the Chakra that naturally leaks from the body [SUP][

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][/SUP], and is what allows Chakra Sensor-types to detect other lifeforms, such as enemy Shinobi, to create an unranked, full body cosmetic. It has been shown that this naturally exuded can be directly manipulated, such as with the "Chakra Suppression Technique", allowing the user to prevent this Chakra from escaping the body, making them virtually invisible to Chakra Sensors. This technique follows a similar principle, allowing the user to passively manipulate this ambient Chakra, moulding it much like they would for a Jutsu, applying both changes to the Shape and Element, giving it a basic "form" as it leaves the body. This however, unlike the aforementioned technique, doesn't make the user invisible to Chakra Sensors, as the Chakra is still "leaving" the users body, simply in another "state". This allows the user to re-purpose this Chakra, for example, allowing them to wreathe themselves in flames, or cloak themselves in an aura of electrical energy, vortex of wind, etc, and other purely cosmetic applications, without any actual Chakra cost, or effort on part of the user, leaving them open to perform other actions without interference. These cosmetics carry no damage, or tangible properties, not from a lack of control or influence from the user, but simply due to them being composed of the "dregs" of one's Chakra Flow, Chakra that would otherwise go unused, making any impact on both the user, other beings, and the world around them, almost entirely negligible.

Note: Can only be taught by Iᴍᴘᴇяғᴇᴄᴛ, and only to those who have learned "(Ninpō: Ritomasu Fingā) Ninja Art: Litmus Finger" and "(Nintaijutsu: Ritomasu Fisuto) Ninja Body Technique: Litmus Fist".

Spoiler

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Spoiler: Manifestation of Law

(Kamunagara) – Manifestation of Law
Type: Supplementary
Rank: N/A
Range: N/A
Chakra: N/A
Damage: N/A
Description: Kamunagara is not itself an ability that is consciously activated or utilised like one would a jutsu. Rather, it is a product of one’s intent, or emotions, influencing their chakra in such a way that it visibly manifests as a pattern or object that hovers behind or around the user. One such example of this is extreme bloodlust or rage, which has been seen before by Naruto and Zabuza, under the influence of the Kyūbi and sheer force of will respectively. The object, pattern or symbol produced is unique to every ninja, and thus it can be considered as a physical manifestation of their will and being. The color produced is dependent on the type of emotion, e.g. anger will produce red, sadness will produce blue, happiness will produce yellow, etc. While the behaviour of chakra in this technique is able to give off specific auras and incite particular sensations in other people, it cannot paralyse or frighten others on the level of something such as Killing Intent. It also cannot physically interact with or cause any kind of injury to an opponent. This ability, functionally, is passive in nature, as it doesn’t require activation or any form of active input from the user, and is entirely cosmetic.

Spoiler

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Muramasa looked down on his ragged form, and the utterly useless blade in his hands, scolding himself, or rather his other self.

"I'm a smith, not a miracle worker kid... Oh well, no point whining about it.
Just need to take advantage of the head start you gave me!!​

Rising to his feet with a strained grunt, Muramasa gripped the blade in his hand tight. The poor thing was about to be blown apart in pursuit of the perfect weapon. If nothing else, this would be a decent test drive of Emiya's capacity to reach that insurmountable goal any blacksmith should aspire to achieve... As he held the blade as tight as he could in one hand, with the other Muramasa began tracing a sigil in the air, which appeared on the edge of the blade, immediately igniting the metal as the blade began to become engulfed in ash. Muramasa gave a sigh as it wouldn't even last a minute as was, so he accelerated the forgery, adding another technique to the blade. As yet more ash crept along the blade, Muramasa erupted into a full dash at the skeletal demon before him. As it released another wave of slashes, Muramasa's eye flashed white, utilizing the leftover dregs of Emiya's instinct to avoid the last ditch attack from the Spirit, before arriving directly before it. With an altered incantation, Muramasa delivered his stirke;

"Essence, unravel. Perfected ideals, converge. Forging techniques, reaching critical.
Take this as your parting gift for your trip back to Hell!! For this is my False Tsumukari Muramasa!!!"​

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Spoiler: Cat's Determination (S-Rank)

(Shōkeimoji-Katon : Neko no Ketsui) - Heiroglyphic-Fire Release : Cat's Determination
Type: Supplementary/Offensive/Defensive
Rank: B - S
Range: Short - Mid
Chakra: 20 - 40
Damage: 40 - 80
Description: The user creates a Circular Red Glyph using their Fire Chakra on the battlefield; the pattern of the glyph is custom as long as it is circular and has the Kanji for "Kokoro 心" inside it. When created it flashes into view almost like an explosion except this is cosmetic. The Glyph can be created horizontally and vertically on the field and then manipulated to move in a certain direction, it can also be created parallel to the user's palm and thrown like a shuriken acting like a very compressed fire techniques, thin and hot which will cut through matter like a hot knife through butter.

Glyphs can be created in front of a Wind Technique and combined with it, creating the infamous fire and wind combos; For example if combined with the Wind Glyph Cat's Dance it can be thrown through the Fire glyph creating a flaming wind glyph. Though this can be combined with other elements; a glyph can be placed on an earth technique and it can create a flaming golem with almost a molten like skin for example (Can be placed on tools to make them extremely hot and burn/cut through things more easily, the glyph is burned into the metal).

Glyphs can be burned onto a surface leaving an ash residue, on the command of the user it will explode and can be used to propel things along or send something flying; the explosion is controlled; For example if planted on the side of some earth or an earth technique it can suddenly speed it up and be shot in a different direction - can be planted on the soles of ones shoes (Fire wouldn't burn through) the ash residue would explode and send the user flying. Basically creating a redirection for solid creations. Trip mines can be created, when the ash is come into close contact it will ignite and explode in a fiery malestrom depending on the size of the glyph + 2 meters.

- S-Rank can only be used Twice with a three turn cooldown and no Fire Techniques of A-rank or higher in the same turn.
- A-Rank version can only be used four times with a two turn cooldown
- Only One Glyph can be created with one use of this
- Glyphs created last four turns on the field
- Must be Taught by LonelyAssassin
-The glyph can only be created/materialized within short-range of the user unless it's made from the ground

Spoiler: O' Brahma, Curse Me

Katon: Brahmastra Kundala / Fire Release: O' Brahma, Curse Me
Type: Offensive / Defensive
Rank: A
Range: Short - Long
Chakra: 30
Damage: 60
Description: This technique has two methods of being performed. The first involves the user simply coating a held weapon, such as a shuriken, kunai or sword, in ash. The second usage instead requires handseals, and is used in situations where the user doesn’t have a weapon on them to use, or cannot apply the jutsu to their present weaponry for any reason. By performing 3 handseals, the user will create a construct of ash, being a maximum of 3 meters in length and width. When the weapon is thrown or collides with another object, or any other event occurs which will produce friction, will cause the Fire Release chakra within the weapon to activate, setting it alight with the flames of Fire Release. When the coated weapon is thrown, the weapon will erupt in a short-range blast of highly intense flames upon collision with any object, target, or surface. This ignition allows it to play on par with other Ninjutsu, particularly large-scale techniques. Blasts are always angled away from the user so as to prevent them from being injured. When interacting with other techniques, the clash follows the S&W of Fire Release.

⇒ Coatings and constructs last for 3 turns.
⇒ Usable 5x per battle.

The resulting explosion, while intentionally angled away from himself, still sent Muramasa soaring back through the plains, coming to a rest several dozen meters away. Looking up, he watched as, while the attack hit it's mark, the spirit was still partially intact. Undoubtedly a failure... As half of it's assimilated torso and skull had been blown away, it still had enough strength left in it for one last attempt. Pointing in Emiya's direction, the tip of the skeletal finger began to glow a deep purple. As Muramasa braced himself for whatever the attack was, he watched as the bony digit started to shake, as though it had trouble maintaining it's form. As the telling glow of life faded from the Gallû Spirit's eyes, what remained of it's broken, burned, melted form collapsed, much like Muramasa himself. Staring down at what remained of the blade, merely the hilt, and the shortest sliver of the overcooked blade that was still somehow attached, Muramasa mused to himself.

"Tch...that was pretty lackluster. Guess I'll be keeping this as reference for later..."​

As the region had finally grown quiet, Muramasa hung his head, and simply basked in the moment. Though it could cut neither bonds, nor fate, nor destiny, and couldn't even approach cutting karma itself, it wasn't the worst thing he'd forged... Looking over the remnants of the battle, he decided it would be best to take a short rest before he continued on with Emiya's assignments...

---

End of mission.

 

[Red-Robin]

Arriving from Here.

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This message marks the beginning of my mission using the following storyboard elements:

Explore a landmark (1 default; upgraded to 3)

Description: After having coordinated with a fellow Surgebinder Shiro Emiya in the Last Bastion on a joint effort to reclaim the region of the Dead Rivers from the Undead forces entrenched there still, Emiya had plans to assault the entrenched Undead that resided there. However, Zhongli had opted to inspect the area, as the shift of the landmark's environment from brimming with rich life and fertility to adhering to the recent Undead occupation warranted investigation..

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​

After having made his way through The Blood Fields, Zhongli finally arrives in a timely manner along the western point of the region. It was almost immediately upon stepping foot within the Dead Rivers that he could tell the differentiation between the two landmarks: The air here was far sharper; it carried a chill that belied even what was expected of a chilly winter's air. The slightest gust was like sharp daggers dragging across any exposed flesh, the soil had grown dark and darker still, drying and cracking in several areas as any signs of life had begun to shrivel and decay. Death permeated like a foul odor that was all too recognizable and too difficult to ignore. If something wasn't done to alleviate the blight that had befallen this region soon, then the damage could presumably become irreversible.. For now, he needed to examine the landmark itself; he had only managed a visual observation of the condition of life in the area, yet he wanted to have a more in depth look at what was going on, beneath the surface. Steadily, Zhongli had descended the hill he had initially showed up upon, sliding his way down it's side until he'd find his footing somewhere near the lower ground. It didn't take him long before he'd find himself walking along the bank of one of the rivers. Though it still flowed in it's natural direction, something seemed.. off.​

At a glance the river was entirely neutral; unimpeded in it's direction, yet not so much as a ripple was out of place. Lifting his hands, Zhongli had performed a small sequence of hand seals, of which was meant to harness a small swelling of his suiton chakra through his lungs before expelling it from his mouth outward, of which took form as a steady stream of a considerably sticky, adhesive liquid substance that was practically like syrup. He aimed this technique at the river in front of him, moving to arrange it in a straight line down several feet of the river, ensuring that the fluid sunk beneath the surface of the water as it was meant to be used as a form of net, intended to ensnare anything that would try to pass through it. After waiting a minute or two, Zhongli would eventually approach the edge of the water, uncaring for if his shoes would touch water as he steadily crouched nearer to the water's surface. His amber irises peered into the river, staring intently at the net he had just set out into the water. What he wanted to see was fish, urchins or shellfish, yet all he saw was loose debris that was ever expected in natural rivers such as leaves, twigs and the occasional stray stone. Not even an insect could be found, at least not at a thorough glance.. "So it's as I suspected. The Undead leave little in the way of compromise for life. The ecosystem is surely to suffer lasting damage, if it isn't already a lost cause.. " Standing to his feet once more, Zhongli had released the chakra that was binding the adhesive liquid in it's syrupy state, allowing for it to practically bleed away in a steady dissolving manner, all that had been caught up in it once again freely flowing down the river.​

Type: Supplementary
Rank: C
Range: Short-Long
Chakra: 15
Damage: N/A
Description: The user, after performing the required handseals: Ram → Tiger, spits out high-viscosity, chakra-infused water, aimed at a surface of wide scope. This is a stream of sticky liquid which can be used to form an adhesive trap that can inhibit a person's mobility. One can effectively reduce their enemy's area of activity with this technique, and has the effect of being able to take complete control over the battlefield. The normal scope of this technique is normally just a few metres, but if prepared, it is also possible to make an entire pond of starch syrup. Being caught in the technique can be avoided by channelling chakra to one's feet allowing one to walk upon it uninhibited, beforehand.

After having inspected the river and it's contents, Zhongli had set his gaze toward his sides; first to his left, then to his right. Right away he could spot a couple of small fishing huts. They were commonplace, especially near rivers that were offset away from any nearby village or town as it provided those who frequented the location a place to temporarily store equipment, food and whatever else they may want or need without concern of having to travel back and forth from their village in constant encumbrance, lugging everything to and from. Yet these particular huts were certainly worse for ware. Though they seemed to stand on their own still well enough, a certain bleakness enveloped them, as though light had not burned from them for ages..

Zhongli had picked a direction and begun to make his way toward one of the huts. In a casual manner, he strolled up to one of the doors, where he steadily gave it a once over, focusing intently at it's frame. His gaze shifted across the entire outline of the door and it's frame, as though searching for something that would otherwise not normally be there. In what seemed to be his prediction, there was no sign of forced entry.. Not a single sliver of the damp, cracked wood was out of place, any damage that there was to find all seemed from natural usage over time and exposure to the elements. It's only true harm was from being neglected at this point. Reaching out a hand, Zhongli moved to grip hold of the handle of the door. In a careful manner, he began to slowly turn the handle before the hinge would inevitably pop and creak from the movement. "It wasn't locked.. curious. " After only a brief delay, Zhongli at last opted to open the door in a natural confidence, letting it swing

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open with his steady guidance. What little light there was from the misty, cloud-caked sky outside tried to bleed through the now opened door and fill as much of the dark, dreary space inside. Taking only two paces inside, Zhongli stopped and began to look around. A horrid stench was ripe inside, one that assaulted the nostrils and burned the eyes, yet it was of no particular consequence to Zhongli; unpleasant as it was still, he was no stranger to the smell of death and decay.. In this particular hut, it was outfitted with a space designated for a kitchen and dining area, as well a small space set aside for a sleeping area in a back room separated from the rest of the hut only by a makeshift rack filled in by what appeared to be simple driftwood and branches. Though it was quite.. modest, it would certainly serve the purpose intended of it without question. Upon closer inspection, he would find that the table in the hut had seemingly been set for a meal; the bread that was originally arranged at it's center surrounded by plates and cutlery had long since molded and begun to decompose in the bowl. Arranged upon a few boards and in a bucket that was sat on the ground next to the counterspace along the back wall were several fish, all of which had begun to be gutted and prepped for being cooked; the source of the foul smell no doubt. Lifting a hand to pinch pensively at his chin, Zhongli stirred in his thoughts for a moment as the uncertain scene before him. "... Not a thing is out of place. It is as though they left willingly, simply taking a stroll yet never returned.. " Zhongli's thoughts began to race with questions. If the people who lived here had fled this place, then why did they take nothing with them? If they were attacked by the Undead, then why was nothing damaged or out of place? It was as if the scene was set on purpose and left for someone to find, for no particular reason. Though there was nothing left to learn there, Zhongli now had questions to seek answers for, which was largely his purpose for being there in the first place.

Stepping out of the hut, Zhongli had one other thing he wanted to inspect with regards to the environment. The ground he walked upon was stiff, as though he were walking across solid rock. Given the nearness to the rivers that surrounded the area densely, the soil was expected to be soft and rich in nutrients meant to feed the growth of life within it quite abundantly. Yet it all seemed quite dried up like a desert. It was obvious that nothing was meant to grow here, at least not anymore, yet he needed to see what was causing it, or at least try to discover if there was anything directly causing it. As he began to roam around, Zhongli had moved near a tree, of which had since lost all signs of life on it and around it. Each of it's branches were barren, it's bark turning an ash coloration, as if petrifying and shriveling inward upon itself. Zhongli had moved to kneel near the roots of the tree, his gaze softening as he moved to place his hand against the rigid soil that surrounded it. In a steady manner he had begun to release his doton chakra through the soil, allowing it to practically flow and fall through the separating soil like a fluid trying to push through any gap it could find. His only goal was to utilize the chakra as a means to attune himself in some degree to the soil he presently stood upon, in hopes of potentially finding anything that was within it that might suggest either life, or perhaps a source of a problem that he could trace toward. As he silently tried to focus on his chakra, something had suddenly broke through the ground and lunged around Zhongli's arm. A serpent, one in which had attempted to sink it's fangs into Zhongli's arm and no doubt inject him with an otherwise unpleasant venom. Unfortunately for the snake, Zhongli had an affinity with poison ninjutsu as well medical ninjutsu to boot, one that accounted him the means to resist any such weaker poisons. Despite his lack of reaction, the snake was desperate to persist, it refused to remove it's fangs from his arm, its tail lashing about in an effort to try and coil around his arm and restrict his movement. With something of a soft sigh, Zhongli merely stared upon the creature in a momentary disappointment. Snakes weren't incapable of surviving in harsh conditions as these, so it came as no particular surprise that this one was here still, yet it no doubt had been without proper food for quite some time; it's death inevitably from starvation at this point. "I fear you chose the wrong prey, little one. " With that simple comment, Zhongli golden Prana had begun to swirl around his arm, of which then seemed to disperse from his appendage like a small surge. In that instant, the Prana had passed through the snake, of which resulted in the creature immediately beginning to crack and fall apart on a structural level as it's body began to give way into the conversion of the same energy that had just made contact with it. The serpent released Zhongli's arm at the last second, only for it to completely dissolve away into a complete conversion of the frigid energy source at his command. While he could just have easily left it alive and tossed it aside, Zhongli viewed it as a simple mercy. This was no place for the living any longer, and a creature such as that would have suffered until it's final days in starvation, helpless of its situation. At least this way, it had no such suffering in it's future.

Type: Offensive/Defensive/Supplementary
Rank: D-S (D)
Range: Short-Long
Chakra Cost: 10-40 (10)
Damage Points: N/A
Description: This technique encompasses the basic applications of the Surge of Evocation. The Surge of Evocation is the usage of Prana in its raw and unrefined form; whatever this Prana touches is transformed into ethereal energy and transported to the Throne. Prana will neutralize and be neutralized by techniques that possess the same amount of chakra. Similarly it will be useless against attacks of greater chakra and will not be weakened by techniques of lower chakra. However when used on living targets this ambient energy will feel extremely frigid to the touch and induce cold burns on contact or even freeze a target solid for higher ranked applications. D to B-Rank uses will inflict cold burns as well as all of the effects of frostbite. A-Rank uses will cause necrosis of the afflicted parts of the body, making them appear dark purple and bruised to signify the death of cells. Affected appendages and organs will cease to function, becoming completely immobile in the case of limbs. S rank uses will freeze the struck targets solid. In the case of Surgebinders, who are immune to all of the above effects, they will be transported to the Throne when struck by the prana of another member of their clan. Era of Gods can be split into three separate applications, all based on the same principle: constructs, armors, and familiars made of prana energy.

Pride of Gilgamesh – Gates of Babylon
The Pride of Gilgamesh allows the user to produce Prana either from the user’s body or on the battlefield. The Prana can only be manifested within short-range of the opponent if the user is also within that range, in which it must be created a minimum of one meter away. This restriction does not apply if the user chooses to release the Prana from their body, rather than manifest it away from themselves. The energy can be released from the body via various hand signs depending on the user's rank in the clan. This can be done to generate constructs bound only by the rank of technique used and one’s imagination; alternatively the user can simplify the application by creating streams, waves, and constructs of Prana. Manifested Prana is capable of taking solid form, granting tangibility at the user’s volition. Non-projectile uses of this technique are capable of levitating and can be governed through mental commands and a sustained chakra cost. B-Ranks and below are sustained through 5 chakra per turn, A-Ranks and above require 10 chakra per turn. Created constructs will last three turns per usage unless they are prematurely cancelled. S-Rank applications can only be used once every three turns and no Prana in the user’s next turn.

Embrace of Ishtar – Armory of Akkadia
This variant allows the user to manifest armors, auras, and coatings of Prana around their body. This can be used to enshroud a single or multiple body parts in a layer of colored energy. These defenses can be made to fit the body like conventional armors or enveloping it in a formless manner. The first type can be created with additional limbs and appendages such as wings which enable flight. The user can also constantly reshape it and create small-scale weapons from the body of the armor, though at the cost of one of the user's three moves. It should be noted that these constructs remain attached to the main body of the armor and so act as an extension of it. The second type generates a “flowing aura” that appears to flicker like an open flame. This aura is often made as an upwards column that is streamed into the sky with its base remaining around the user. It should be noted that its power is not split or divided as all of the Prana energy is part of one whole. The armors can exhibit tangibility, although this does not hinder the user’s techniques and their passing which can freely move in and out of the armor per the user’s will. B-Rank and below applications require being sustained with 5 chakra per turn while A and S Ranks require 10 chakra per turn. This technique can last a maximum of three turns. S-Rank applications can be used twice per battle. After an S-Rank application expires the user is unable to utilize Prana single turn.

Divinity of Merlin – Garden of Avalon
The Divinity of Merlin allows the user to produce Prana in the same way as the Pride of Gilgamesh and can be shaped in the same way, limited by rank and imagination. However, unlike the Pride of Gilgamesh which creates static constructs the Divinity of Merlin creates constructs imbued with a limited form of sentience – familiars. These familiars can be created anywhere on the battlefield, with the exception of short-range of the opponent unless the user is also within that range; in this case the familiar cannot be created within two meters of the opponent. This restriction does not apply if the user chooses to release the Prana from their body. Familiars are capable of taking numerous shapes, not simply limited to animals. These familiars are also capable of taking solid form at the user’s volition. Familiars are capable of remaining on the battlefield for four turns. B-Ranks and below are sustained through 5 chakra per turn, A-Ranks and above require 10 chakra per turn. S-Rank applications can only be used twice times per battle and no Prana in the user’s next turn.

Note: The upper echelon of the clan (Servants and above) are capable of using this technique without hand signs for B-rank and below. A-rank will require two hand signs and S-rank requires three.
Note: The lower tier clan members (Phantasms to Guardians) will require 5 to 3 hand seals for all ranks, decreasing as they they ascend in rank.

With a brief moment of silence after the event, Zhongli had inevitably brought himself to a standing posture once again. He lifted his gaze skyward, as though to take in the possible time of day, yet the clouds were thick and prevented an clear view of the sun. For now, he opted to make for a hill that stood in the distance. He needed a vantage point to view from if he was meant to see anything meaningful in any clear way. In one swift motion, his body had flickered from visibility in his starting location and reappeared at the hill's peak. He was careful to take in his surroundings upon arrival, casting his attention over both of his shoulders as he peered passed the trees surrounding him. The Undead presently ruled this territory, so it wasn't wise for him to ever assume safety anywhere he went for now. Once he felt everything seemed clear for the time being, he resolved himself to step further up the incline of the hill until he'd find it's highest point, of which allowed for him to peer over past it's top curvature and see onto the other side of it. Immediately he had found himself staring upon what appeared to be a fortified fortress; one that was enraptured in the Undead that had made this region their "home" recently. This was doubtless the place where Emiya had intended to assault, of which Zhongli was meant to survey and relay any details to him for his arrival. Just as he was gearing up to do just that, Zhongli watched as the very man he had expected to aid appeared in a storm of blades, the carnage to follow doubtlessly of a grand scale. Though Zhongli had considered possibly stepping in to assist the fellow Surgebinder, he concluded that it was better to leave him to his devices, and take this opportunity to observe his fighting style. Whatever lectures he would have to give the young man later on his methods of "reckless abandon" would have to come after the dust settled...

---

This message marks the end of my mission.

 

[Imperfect]

Spoiler

Arriving from Here.

---

---

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​

After having made his way through The Blood Fields, Zhongli finally arrives in a timely manner along the western point of the region. It was almost immediately upon stepping foot within the Dead Rivers that he could tell the differentiation between the two landmarks: The air here was far sharper; it carried a chill that belied even what was expected of a chilly winter's air. The slightest gust was like sharp daggers dragging across any exposed flesh, the soil had grown dark and darker still, drying and cracking in several areas as any signs of life had begun to shrivel and decay. Death permeated like a foul odor that was all too recognizable and too difficult to ignore. If something wasn't done to alleviate the blight that had befallen this region soon, then the damage could presumably become irreversible.. For now, he needed to examine the landmark itself; he had only managed a visual observation of the condition of life in the area, yet he wanted to have a more in depth look at what was going on, beneath the surface. Steadily, Zhongli had descended the hill he had initially showed up upon, sliding his way down it's side until he'd find his footing somewhere near the lower ground. It didn't take him long before he'd find himself walking along the bank of one of the rivers. Though it still flowed in it's natural direction, something seemed.. off.​

At a glance the river was entirely neutral; unimpeded in it's direction, yet not so much as a ripple was out of place. Lifting his hands, Zhongli had performed a small sequence of hand seals, of which was meant to harness a small swelling of his suiton chakra through his lungs before expelling it from his mouth outward, of which took form as a steady stream of a considerably sticky, adhesive liquid substance that was practically like syrup. He aimed this technique at the river in front of him, moving to arrange it in a straight line down several feet of the river, ensuring that the fluid sunk beneath the surface of the water as it was meant to be used as a form of net, intended to ensnare anything that would try to pass through it. After waiting a minute or two, Zhongli would eventually approach the edge of the water, uncaring for if his shoes would touch water as he steadily crouched nearer to the water's surface. His amber irises peered into the river, staring intently at the net he had just set out into the water. What he wanted to see was fish, urchins or shellfish, yet all he saw was loose debris that was ever expected in natural rivers such as leaves, twigs and the occasional stray stone. Not even an insect could be found, at least not at a thorough glance.. "So it's as I suspected. The Undead leave little in the way of compromise for life. The ecosystem is surely to suffer lasting damage, if it isn't already a lost cause.. " Standing to his feet once more, Zhongli had released the chakra that was binding the adhesive liquid in it's syrupy state, allowing for it to practically bleed away in a steady dissolving manner, all that had been caught up in it once again freely flowing down the river.​

Type: Supplementary
Rank: C
Range: Short-Long
Chakra: 15
Damage: N/A
Description: The user, after performing the required handseals: Ram → Tiger, spits out high-viscosity, chakra-infused water, aimed at a surface of wide scope. This is a stream of sticky liquid which can be used to form an adhesive trap that can inhibit a person's mobility. One can effectively reduce their enemy's area of activity with this technique, and has the effect of being able to take complete control over the battlefield. The normal scope of this technique is normally just a few metres, but if prepared, it is also possible to make an entire pond of starch syrup. Being caught in the technique can be avoided by channelling chakra to one's feet allowing one to walk upon it uninhibited, beforehand.

After having inspected the river and it's contents, Zhongli had set his gaze toward his sides; first to his left, then to his right. Right away he could spot a couple of small fishing huts. They were commonplace, especially near rivers that were offset away from any nearby village or town as it provided those who frequented the location a place to temporarily store equipment, food and whatever else they may want or need without concern of having to travel back and forth from their village in constant encumbrance, lugging everything to and from. Yet these particular huts were certainly worse for ware. Though they seemed to stand on their own still well enough, a certain bleakness enveloped them, as though light had not burned from them for ages..

Zhongli had picked a direction and begun to make his way toward one of the huts. In a casual manner, he strolled up to one of the doors, where he steadily gave it a once over, focusing intently at it's frame. His gaze shifted across the entire outline of the door and it's frame, as though searching for something that would otherwise not normally be there. In what seemed to be his prediction, there was no sign of forced entry.. Not a single sliver of the damp, cracked wood was out of place, any damage that there was to find all seemed from natural usage over time and exposure to the elements. It's only true harm was from being neglected at this point. Reaching out a hand, Zhongli moved to grip hold of the handle of the door. In a careful manner, he began to slowly turn the handle before the hinge would inevitably pop and creak from the movement. "It wasn't locked.. curious. " After only a brief delay, Zhongli at last opted to open the door in a natural confidence, letting it swing

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open with his steady guidance. What little light there was from the misty, cloud-caked sky outside tried to bleed through the now opened door and fill as much of the dark, dreary space inside. Taking only two paces inside, Zhongli stopped and began to look around. A horrid stench was ripe inside, one that assaulted the nostrils and burned the eyes, yet it was of no particular consequence to Zhongli; unpleasant as it was still, he was no stranger to the smell of death and decay.. In this particular hut, it was outfitted with a space designated for a kitchen and dining area, as well a small space set aside for a sleeping area in a back room separated from the rest of the hut only by a makeshift rack filled in by what appeared to be simple driftwood and branches. Though it was quite.. modest, it would certainly serve the purpose intended of it without question. Upon closer inspection, he would find that the table in the hut had seemingly been set for a meal; the bread that was originally arranged at it's center surrounded by plates and cutlery had long since molded and begun to decompose in the bowl. Arranged upon a few boards and in a bucket that was sat on the ground next to the counterspace along the back wall were several fish, all of which had begun to be gutted and prepped for being cooked; the source of the foul smell no doubt. Lifting a hand to pinch pensively at his chin, Zhongli stirred in his thoughts for a moment as the uncertain scene before him. "... Not a thing is out of place. It is as though they left willingly, simply taking a stroll yet never returned.. " Zhongli's thoughts began to race with questions. If the people who lived here had fled this place, then why did they take nothing with them? If they were attacked by the Undead, then why was nothing damaged or out of place? It was as if the scene was set on purpose and left for someone to find, for no particular reason. Though there was nothing left to learn there, Zhongli now had questions to seek answers for, which was largely his purpose for being there in the first place.

Stepping out of the hut, Zhongli had one other thing he wanted to inspect with regards to the environment. The ground he walked upon was stiff, as though he were walking across solid rock. Given the nearness to the rivers that surrounded the area densely, the soil was expected to be soft and rich in nutrients meant to feed the growth of life within it quite abundantly. Yet it all seemed quite dried up like a desert. It was obvious that nothing was meant to grow here, at least not anymore, yet he needed to see what was causing it, or at least try to discover if there was anything directly causing it. As he began to roam around, Zhongli had moved near a tree, of which had since lost all signs of life on it and around it. Each of it's branches were barren, it's bark turning an ash coloration, as if petrifying and shriveling inward upon itself. Zhongli had moved to kneel near the roots of the tree, his gaze softening as he moved to place his hand against the rigid soil that surrounded it. In a steady manner he had begun to release his doton chakra through the soil, allowing it to practically flow and fall through the separating soil like a fluid trying to push through any gap it could find. His only goal was to utilize the chakra as a means to attune himself in some degree to the soil he presently stood upon, in hopes of potentially finding anything that was within it that might suggest either life, or perhaps a source of a problem that he could trace toward. As he silently tried to focus on his chakra, something had suddenly broke through the ground and lunged around Zhongli's arm. A serpent, one in which had attempted to sink it's fangs into Zhongli's arm and no doubt inject him with an otherwise unpleasant venom. Unfortunately for the snake, Zhongli had an affinity with poison ninjutsu as well medical ninjutsu to boot, one that accounted him the means to resist any such weaker poisons. Despite his lack of reaction, the snake was desperate to persist, it refused to remove it's fangs from his arm, its tail lashing about in an effort to try and coil around his arm and restrict his movement. With something of a soft sigh, Zhongli merely stared upon the creature in a momentary disappointment. Snakes weren't incapable of surviving in harsh conditions as these, so it came as no particular surprise that this one was here still, yet it no doubt had been without proper food for quite some time; it's death inevitably from starvation at this point. "I fear you chose the wrong prey, little one. " With that simple comment, Zhongli golden Prana had begun to swirl around his arm, of which then seemed to disperse from his appendage like a small surge. In that instant, the Prana had passed through the snake, of which resulted in the creature immediately beginning to crack and fall apart on a structural level as it's body began to give way into the conversion of the same energy that had just made contact with it. The serpent released Zhongli's arm at the last second, only for it to completely dissolve away into a complete conversion of the frigid energy source at his command. While he could just have easily left it alive and tossed it aside, Zhongli viewed it as a simple mercy. This was no place for the living any longer, and a creature such as that would have suffered until it's final days in starvation, helpless of its situation. At least this way, it had no such suffering in it's future.

Type: Offensive/Defensive/Supplementary
Rank: D-S (D)
Range: Short-Long
Chakra Cost: 10-40 (10)
Damage Points: N/A
Description: This technique encompasses the basic applications of the Surge of Evocation. The Surge of Evocation is the usage of Prana in its raw and unrefined form; whatever this Prana touches is transformed into ethereal energy and transported to the Throne. Prana will neutralize and be neutralized by techniques that possess the same amount of chakra. Similarly it will be useless against attacks of greater chakra and will not be weakened by techniques of lower chakra. However when used on living targets this ambient energy will feel extremely frigid to the touch and induce cold burns on contact or even freeze a target solid for higher ranked applications. D to B-Rank uses will inflict cold burns as well as all of the effects of frostbite. A-Rank uses will cause necrosis of the afflicted parts of the body, making them appear dark purple and bruised to signify the death of cells. Affected appendages and organs will cease to function, becoming completely immobile in the case of limbs. S rank uses will freeze the struck targets solid. In the case of Surgebinders, who are immune to all of the above effects, they will be transported to the Throne when struck by the prana of another member of their clan. Era of Gods can be split into three separate applications, all based on the same principle: constructs, armors, and familiars made of prana energy.

Pride of Gilgamesh – Gates of Babylon
The Pride of Gilgamesh allows the user to produce Prana either from the user’s body or on the battlefield. The Prana can only be manifested within short-range of the opponent if the user is also within that range, in which it must be created a minimum of one meter away. This restriction does not apply if the user chooses to release the Prana from their body, rather than manifest it away from themselves. The energy can be released from the body via various hand signs depending on the user's rank in the clan. This can be done to generate constructs bound only by the rank of technique used and one’s imagination; alternatively the user can simplify the application by creating streams, waves, and constructs of Prana. Manifested Prana is capable of taking solid form, granting tangibility at the user’s volition. Non-projectile uses of this technique are capable of levitating and can be governed through mental commands and a sustained chakra cost. B-Ranks and below are sustained through 5 chakra per turn, A-Ranks and above require 10 chakra per turn. Created constructs will last three turns per usage unless they are prematurely cancelled. S-Rank applications can only be used once every three turns and no Prana in the user’s next turn.

Embrace of Ishtar – Armory of Akkadia
This variant allows the user to manifest armors, auras, and coatings of Prana around their body. This can be used to enshroud a single or multiple body parts in a layer of colored energy. These defenses can be made to fit the body like conventional armors or enveloping it in a formless manner. The first type can be created with additional limbs and appendages such as wings which enable flight. The user can also constantly reshape it and create small-scale weapons from the body of the armor, though at the cost of one of the user's three moves. It should be noted that these constructs remain attached to the main body of the armor and so act as an extension of it. The second type generates a “flowing aura” that appears to flicker like an open flame. This aura is often made as an upwards column that is streamed into the sky with its base remaining around the user. It should be noted that its power is not split or divided as all of the Prana energy is part of one whole. The armors can exhibit tangibility, although this does not hinder the user’s techniques and their passing which can freely move in and out of the armor per the user’s will. B-Rank and below applications require being sustained with 5 chakra per turn while A and S Ranks require 10 chakra per turn. This technique can last a maximum of three turns. S-Rank applications can be used twice per battle. After an S-Rank application expires the user is unable to utilize Prana single turn.

Divinity of Merlin – Garden of Avalon
The Divinity of Merlin allows the user to produce Prana in the same way as the Pride of Gilgamesh and can be shaped in the same way, limited by rank and imagination. However, unlike the Pride of Gilgamesh which creates static constructs the Divinity of Merlin creates constructs imbued with a limited form of sentience – familiars. These familiars can be created anywhere on the battlefield, with the exception of short-range of the opponent unless the user is also within that range; in this case the familiar cannot be created within two meters of the opponent. This restriction does not apply if the user chooses to release the Prana from their body. Familiars are capable of taking numerous shapes, not simply limited to animals. These familiars are also capable of taking solid form at the user’s volition. Familiars are capable of remaining on the battlefield for four turns. B-Ranks and below are sustained through 5 chakra per turn, A-Ranks and above require 10 chakra per turn. S-Rank applications can only be used twice times per battle and no Prana in the user’s next turn.

Note: The upper echelon of the clan (Servants and above) are capable of using this technique without hand signs for B-rank and below. A-rank will require two hand signs and S-rank requires three.
Note: The lower tier clan members (Phantasms to Guardians) will require 5 to 3 hand seals for all ranks, decreasing as they they ascend in rank.

With a brief moment of silence after the event, Zhongli had inevitably brought himself to a standing posture once again. He lifted his gaze skyward, as though to take in the possible time of day, yet the clouds were thick and prevented an clear view of the sun. For now, he opted to make for a hill that stood in the distance. He needed a vantage point to view from if he was meant to see anything meaningful in any clear way. In one swift motion, his body had flickered from visibility in his starting location and reappeared at the hill's peak. He was careful to take in his surroundings upon arrival, casting his attention over both of his shoulders as he peered passed the trees surrounding him. The Undead presently ruled this territory, so it wasn't wise for him to ever assume safety anywhere he went for now. Once he felt everything seemed clear for the time being, he resolved himself to step further up the incline of the hill until he'd find it's highest point, of which allowed for him to peer over past it's top curvature and see onto the other side of it. Immediately he had found himself staring upon what appeared to be a fortified fortress; one that was enraptured in the Undead that had made this region their "home" recently. This was doubtless the place where Emiya had intended to assault, of which Zhongli was meant to survey and relay any details to him for his arrival. Just as he was gearing up to do just that, Zhongli watched as the very man he had expected to aid appeared in a storm of blades, the carnage to follow doubtlessly of a grand scale. Though Zhongli had considered possibly stepping in to assist the fellow Surgebinder, he concluded that it was better to leave him to his devices, and take this opportunity to observe his fighting style. Whatever lectures he would have to give the young man later on his methods of "reckless abandon" would have to come after the dust settled...

---

Slumping down in his tattered form, Muramasa pulled out his communication scroll, and began lazily scrawling on to the parchment as it slowly vanished, reappearing on Zhongli's own with an indicator that a message had been relayed.

"Zhongli. Dead Rivers. Come at once if convenient. If inconvenient, come all the same.
Just follow the smell of fire, smoke, and the sounds of battle."​

As he finished writing his message, Muramasa simply let the scroll fall to the floor. He couldn't even muster the strength to pick it back up, so instead he stared down at it, as though his gaze boring through the communication device would suddenly make it spring to life, roll itself back up, and return to his pouch. Seeing the futility in staring holes through paper, he returned his attention back to his own body, and the glorified gory state it was currently in. Though they were just bones, the sheer number did one on him as they passed through his Aias. He'd probably lost enough blood to consider seeking medical help, but without the strength to even lift a hand to pick up bound paper, his chances of making it to a doctor were rather slim.

"These young bones sure can take a hit... But damn it, that still hurts."​

As he winced through the pain, Muramasa began cradling the more heavily wounded parts of his body, though was shocked when there was a bright light emitting from them, and they began closing almost instantly.

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Spoiler: Mystic Palm

( Iryō Ninjutsu: Shōsen Jutsu ) - Medical Technique: Mystic Palm Technique
Type: Supplementary
Rank: S
Range: Short
Chakra: N/A (2x the amount of damage healed, 200 max)
Damage: N/A
Description: This medical ninjutsu allows the user to speed up the body's natural healing process by focusing chakra onto their hands, forming an aura of greenish chakra which he then sends into a wound or afflicted body part. This allows the user to heal a patient without the need for medical equipment or surgery, making it very useful on the battlefield. It can be used to treat both external and internal injuries. It is vital to match the amount of chakra used to the severity of the affliction or injury. This requires a great amount of chakra control. Because of this, only a few highly skilled medical-nin are able to use this technique. The limitation of the technique is that it cannot regrow missing body parts or remove with poisons or toxins, though it can heal damage by them. Additionally, perhaps its more severe drawback is the chakra cost, which is much higher than any other medical technique. For each damage point the user of the technique wishes to heal, he needs to spend twice as much chakra. Basically, for x amount of damage the user needs to spend 2x amount of chakra to repair/heal. The user can also use this technique on himself and it can be used with one hand or two and even in two targets at a time or while using another technique with the other hand. The speed of the healing is fast but not instant.

Note: Can be used on up to 2 targets.
Note: Can only be used by Medical Ninja.

---

Chakra: 220 used in previous post. Minus an additional 260 for Mystic Palm, as I was counting myself close to zero = 1120.

 

[Imperfect]

As his body suddenly felt, well, not "better", but not injured either, Muramasa quickly rose from the heap he'd created on the floor, and began testing his body. Though the fatigue was still there, along with a noticeable drain in his Chakra, he was actually healed. By what exactly he didn't know, nor truly care. Reaching down to the fallen scroll he began rolling it back up to be returned to his pocket, when an notification pinged in the helmet he had somehow managed to keep a hold of during all of that insanity. One of the Spider's associates had sent Emiya an urgent alert that a high-value target had apparently been spotted not too far from his current position. A sudden pang of fear struck him as he began to wonder if it was Demetrias once more and, considering how the last encounter went, he wasn't particularly fond of another brush with death as close as that. Still, Spider held all the cards, and without his intel Emiya wouldn't find the Armory any time soon. Thankfully as he read the rest of the notice, it seemed he would not be required to engage directly, merely act as the vanguard and run reconnaissance to verify the apparent sighting. Unfurling the scroll, Emiya sent another notice to Zhongli, before immediately changing course back towards Mistheaven.

"Zhongli, apologies, change in plans. I'm heading North East.
Pass through Mistheaven, and help the refugees there if you are able, otherwise I'll meet you at the Strand."​

On the way out of the region, satisfied with his first smithing attempt, Muramasa returned to the subconscious reaches of Emiya's mind, relinquishing control back to the young man.

---

Leaving Landmark. Heading to #227, Mistheaven

 

[Red-Robin]

As his body suddenly felt, well, not "better", but not injured either, Muramasa quickly rose from the heap he'd created on the floor, and began testing his body. Though the fatigue was still there, along with a noticeable drain in his Chakra, he was actually healed. By what exactly he didn't know, nor truly care. Reaching down to the fallen scroll he began rolling it back up to be returned to his pocket, when an notification pinged in the helmet he had somehow managed to keep a hold of during all of that insanity. One of the Spider's associates had sent Emiya an urgent alert that a high-value target had apparently been spotted not too far from his current position. A sudden pang of fear struck him as he began to wonder if it was Demetrias once more and, considering how the last encounter went, he wasn't particularly fond of another brush with death as close as that. Still, Spider held all the cards, and without his intel Emiya wouldn't find the Armory any time soon. Thankfully as he read the rest of the notice, it seemed he would not be required to engage directly, merely act as the vanguard and run reconnaissance to verify the apparent sighting. Unfurling the scroll, Emiya sent another notice to Zhongli, before immediately changing course back towards Mistheaven.

"Zhongli, apologies, change in plans. I'm heading North East.
Pass through Mistheaven, and help the refugees there if you are able, otherwise I'll meet you at the Strand."​

On the way out of the region, satisfied with his first smithing attempt, Muramasa returned to the subconscious reaches of Emiya's mind, relinquishing control back to the young man.

---

Leaving Landmark. Heading to #227, Mistheaven

While Zhongli had remained on the sidelines for the majority of the event and seemed "less than useful," in truth a large sum of it was on purpose. While Emiya had charged in, unannounced and unhinged, waiting not for Zhongli to provide him information or even requesting for aid in the effort to blitz the fortress. At the same time, it was a convenient means for Zhongli to witness Emiya's "resolve," seeing the boundaries of his power and the lengths he was willing to pursue in order to accomplish his goal. It was valuable information, especially if he were to be fighting side by side with his fellow Surgebinder in any future endeavors. For now, he simply eyed the scroll as Emiya's message unraveled across it in translation. He had requested that he do what he could for the Mistheaven refugees, of which he had no particular attachment to himself, but he had to pass through the destination regardless, so he'd at least inspect the situation, then determine what he'd be willing or able to do there, then decide his course accordingly.

As the scroll was still unraveled in his hands, Zhongli began to write out his own response. "I shall see what the situation is, but I make no promises. Best of luck in your next objective, I shall see you there when you have finished. " With that, Zhongli closed the scroll and stuffed it into his coat before making his way out of the region in the direction of the contested Mistheaven, stopping only for a moment to take one final inspecting look of the scarred battlefield that was left in the wake of the recent conflict before continuing on.

---

LLM ( 223 ) < ( 227 )

 

[Drackos]

Solomon arrives and continues Eastward.

LLM

 

[Arthorius]

Coming from: https://animebase.me/threads/hellmouth-222.768216/post-22101501

Lucifer continues his journey home

Llm

 

[Skorm]

Coming from [x]

Alucard and Lilith continues south west from the Dead Rivers.

LLM

 

[Imperfect]

Coming from #224, Hogwarts.

---

Sickening streams of crimson fluids beating through the heart of Tobusekai, the lands long since corrupted by the Basmu and it's foul presence only felt in the ground and the water and the air. The Dead Rivers were once the most strategic position to hold, now it's the deadliest hive of disgust in the east. Dozens of monstrosities of Rot scream in pain as they are engulfed in a torrent of flame, burned to cinders and ash as Emiya continues his labored pilgrimage east. And where normally he would be using that word in error, he was technically travelling to meet a flesh and blood god, so he was well aware of it's place in this situation, and the irony contained therein.

Spoiler: Blaze of Glory

(Kaen Kakkusei Iden: Eikō no Honō) – Atavistic Flame: Blaze of Glory
Type: Offensive, Supplementary
Rank: S
Range: Short – Long
Chakra: N/A
Damage: 80 (110)
Description: Blaze of Glory is a powerful Atavistic Fire technique that employs devastation on a wide scale. From their hand or their mouth, the user generates a single golden ember and launches it to a targeted destination on the battlefield. Upon reaching its destination the ember erupts in a massive inferno, encompassing up to 40 meters to unleash fiery devastation in a widespread area. Upon creation the user is able to designate allies, following Atavistic Flame’s rules, and render them immune, along with the user, to the damage inflicted by Blaze of Glory. Those designated by the user instead are healed for a massive 80 spiritual Health Points, not including the user themselves. Activation of this technique requires the user expend 30 spiritual Health Points. They will heal themselves for 10 spiritual Health Points over three turns, 10 per turn. This technique can be used three times per battle, once every two turns. Grandmaster applications increase the damage of this technique by an additional 30, not counting as a boost.

Grasping his weapons tightly, expecting to run into many more Adherents before he finally arrived in his destination, Emiya continued east, his mind constantly wandering to the lingering semblance of the smith, tormented in isolation within his own body.

---

Leaving Landmark. Heading to #228, Heroes' Rest.