Nanami said her goodbyes for the time being. Not sure if they would be a team again. She sighed a little at that as she left with Sakura and Sakuya. Her mind fluttered from place to place, as they traveled back to the Hidden Leaf. They vision of their dead Sensei, and herself covered in Sigmund's blood only focused her further. Even while distracted she kept up and Nanami's balance was better then usual. Maybe it was the intense memories that centered her, or maybe it was something else. For the time being she wouldn't realize what was truly going on in her mind.

The day went by in a blink of an eye. Though as sharp as her mind was. The fight with Kotatsu was revealing. She knew she couldn't copy his jutsu as it was some form of Kekkai. But she would start trying to find a way to neutralize it. Genjutsu seemed to be difficult to hold him. He saw right through it the first time. Nanami then realized, next time would be different. Using the Sharingan's genjutsu eye would likely succeed where her basic jutsu failed. She hated having to submit to Kotatsu in their round of fighting. Though it seems she was lucky to have escaped at all. Remembering the match against his own teammate. Then the actual battle against him in the arena did not go so well. Through Kotatsu's trickery, he had managed to use Sigmund as his substitution for the jutsu. Then she nearly killed him. She felt bad, but then she was also strong enough to save him. This lead to why Nanami had to become stronger.

Another day goes by like a flash of lightning. Almost home. Almost back to father. She knew she might get one night with him before the training takes up all her time. Her mind is alight with so many thoughts, strategies, and jutsu. While she was a strong support type, even more so now with the Sharingan. Nanami wanted to be more, much more. It might be the influence of her blood or the Sharingan. She couldn't just sit back and be support. She needed something else. A jutsu that would be a game changer. Then it dawned on her, she remembered her lessons on fuinjutsu. They used an Kushina's Adamantine Chains as an example of one of the stronger sealing techniques. A fuinjutsu of sorts, able to seal away a person's chakra for a while or if the user willed it, permanently.. also able to be used as a defensive technique and form an area in which no one could leave. A giant dome, made of chain. The thought of that jutsu sparked an idea. Since she knew the Uzumaki clan would likely deny a request to learn a clan technique. Even though unknown to them and her, that she carried Uzumaki blood in her. So this type of technique might be possible.

This was all she thought about for the remainder of the travel. Her mind decided to close to the tragedy that had happened for the time being. It would only be a distraction to her. Nanami's soul focus had to be on training, getting much stronger then she is now. Her mind thought about ways to create the arrows without the bow. She knew that this was one of her big hindrances. Nanami also knew the training she was about to be put through would help her chakra control. Leading to her not needing the bow. Also she would make a request to go through taijutsu training. If she was able to summon the arrows without the bow. Then fighting hand to hand and using the arrows would be possible. This would be her side training. Meaning it would be training and sleeping for the next year if she wanted to achieve this.

The village is in sight, it is much quieter then normal. Nanami knew why. They arrived just after dusk. Sakura gave the two leave to get settled and or say hello to any family that was living there. Nanami arrived to an empty house. She guessed with all the commotion caused at the Chunin exams that he would be busy trying to figure out who would fill in for the Hokage until he was retrieved. The way everything went down though. She feared something was waiting for them. Something that was not going to be fun. Namami walked up to her room. Worn out from the ordeal. She collapses onto her bed. Nanami stretches out "Why couldn't it just have been a normal Chunin exams." She covers her face with a pillow. Acting kind of girly again.

-Every month Nanami sends a letter to Nori..-

                              The first day starts with her and Sakuya meeting with Sakura, here is where she revealed the Sharingan. Nanami also made sure to inform her, that she had already talked with her husband about it.. We then made formal introduction. They started training Sakura went over the basics. Which both of them knew, but Nanami didn't speak up. She knew she had to be very respectful. Nanami absorbed every word Sakura said, and never tried using her own knowledge to counter her. The knowledge she would learn would be invaluable in many aspects of her life. They started with the fish technique in the first week. Both of them worked hard. Sakuya showed an affinity for healing that Nanami didn't have. She completed the task a day ahead of Nanami. This only fueled the young woman's drive. She quickly caught up to Sakuya. Even though she kept up. It always took more chakra for Nanami then Sakuya.

Sakura's hopes came true as the two girls not only developed a friendship, but also a rivalry. When they were training it was pretty intense at times. Neither would show a sign of being tired. Even though Nanami was at times. When it came time for healing jutsu training. This is when Nanami would first use her Sharingan to copy a technique. While it still takes time to learn. She had the hand-seals down. They trained all day. Then Nanami trained when she got home. She worked on forming her arrows without her bow. This initially would prove hard. The control to create the Arrows without a focus was very hard. After the first few weeks of both Sakura's training and her own. She would nail down the healing arrow. As it fell in to what she was currently training in.

The third week came and went in a blur. She trained from dawn till bedtime. She always ate correctly for maximized energy. She never missed a meal. Though her rivalry with Sigmund was not lost on her. She alternated nights of training with her arrows, and training in Taijutsu. Nanami started to see why Sigmund was so good. Though he was considered a prodigy, so she knew competing with him would be difficult. Though she remembered his style, even though she thought the use of bones from his own body was a little disgusting. Nanami also knew the strength of such a Kekkai was amazing. Nanami wondered what type of training her team was enduring. Though Nanami frowned slightly remembering how much damage he had taken. Remembering that. She knew Sigmund, for month of two would be in recovery and physical rehab "I know you will bounce back. You better not let me out do you." She smiled to herself. Then she remember what Nori said to Sigmund. Her confession of sorts. She hoped Nori and Sigmund would grow closer "I hope their bond grows, for it will make them both stronger." Nanami was stargazing as she said this. The first month ends. With her training for now firmly set now. Nanami prepares for the next month's training to be even more intense.

                         
The month begins with another lecture. Sakura wasn't kidding when she said it would only get harder, and more intense. They started on healing broken bones of small animals, and helping out at the clinic with minor injuries. This would last a few hours out of their training, once a week. Nanami really enjoyed the interaction with the parents, kids, and even their pets. While the little ones were a bit rambunctious. Nanami seemed to win them over with her beautiful smile, and kind touch. Each day she would talk with Sakuya about different ways of healing, and such. They seemed to get along quite well.

Every day was different, this made learning a lot more fun, and a lot more challenging. Nanami loved this. Her energy went through the roof. You definitely see the Uzumaki blood in her shine in training like this. Everyday Nanami was all smiles. She worked as hard as anyone could. Her other training began to show progress. As she was able to hold the healing arrow while doing intense movement, like rock climbing or free running. It did take a lot of focus. So occasionally she lost her focus and the arrow faded. Each day was more fun to her then the last. Sakura would most likely notice her enthusiasm increase each day. It might remind her a little of both Naruto and Sasuke. Sasuke's focus, and Naruto's fun side.

Nanami started to grow a little adding a few inches to her dancer-like frame. She filled out a little more in the chest area. Her night training started improving bit by bit. Her kicks were becoming harder. Her punches faster. After her nightly mountain climbing she stood up as she stared at the stars "I wonder if there is someone out there for me." Nanami gazed into the sky for a while. Her mind and body was changing, and growing. Nanami energy kept increasing. She finally got a grasp on using her healing arrow without her bow. Next she worked on her wind arrow. Which was way more volatile. So training with that form of arrow went much slower, as the arrow needed precise control. Which Nanami lacked at the moment. The final day of the second month comes to a close. Sakura administered a very difficult written and hands on exam. Nanami wasn't perfect, but she did well. Not as well as she wanted to do. The month ends on a good note. The training has yet to truly begin.


         
Nanami wakes up early to another day of training. She rushes down past her father, saying hi and bye at the same time. She was excited. She arrives on time, and ready to train. Thats when Sakura hands them both mission attire "Time for field work. Without knowledge of the lands you will travel through, things will become deadly for those you are trying to help, and yourselves if you are not prepared. I have a month long trip planned. We will aid those along the way, as well as do some endurance training." For the next month they traveled the safe paths. Into snow, ice, heat, wind, and storms. The terrains were harsh, the weather even more so. Giving aid to people in such weather was difficult and tested both control and concentration.

Nothing eventful happened with the exception of delivering a child. Which opened Nanami's eyes a bit more. She really enjoyed this aspect of being a medical ninja. But she knew it wouldn't all be fun like this. Nanami knew battles were coming. Battles that could change everything. They arrive back in Konoha. The difference in air could be felt. It was so clean in Konoha. Other places you could smell the differences as well as feel them. Sakura gave her a day to rest after the journey. For the first time since training started Nanami slept the entire day away. The third month moves by and more trials are to come.


                             

The previous months went by quickly. Nanami's night training also improved. She was able to control the wind arrow, and produce as many as three at once and five of the healing. Being able to produce multiples in a fight would give her an edge. Adding this with her Genjutsu would make her a formidable opponent. However when actually fighting with Taijutsu. Nanami could only sustain two arrows. A work in progress. The next day her training intensified, every moment there was a new challenge. These new challenges and tests started to wear nanami down a little more. It was rough and the training started to use more chakra. It made her night training all the more challenging. It took more concetration to keep even one arrow up. But she managed and worked through it. Always bright and cheerful after sleeping.

Day after day went by. She grew accustomed to the harsh training. It never got any easier. Which helped her night training. Eventually she got back into dancing and training with her fire and wind jutsu. Though in a different manner. She had gained enough control to freely direct two arrows. She had managed to master the flame arrow finally. She had the flame and wind arrows dancing around her as she practiced Taijutsu. At times she had an arrow fire at a target at the end of a punch. Knowing at times she would have to fight a group of enemies. Her fire arrow's explosive area and the power of the explosion made her strategy for it change a bit as well. This would be her long range power attack.

The month came to a close and with how the training with Sakura was going. She knew she would have to tone down her night training.

                            The month started off with a day spent at the clinic. This time however instead of the minor wounds they started sitting in and eventually participating in the surgeries. She watched as Sakura used her Chakra scapel with extreme precision. Sakura explained how the jutsu worked and how it was unwieldy in combat. Though after saying this, she looked at Nanami and explained with the Sharingan much like the chidori. She could wield the Chakra Scapel with extreme efficiency and lethality in combat. This made sense and excited Nanami a bit. The ability to sever tendons, ligaments, slice arteries, and much more with just a touch. The medical applications were unprecedented as well. It was a double blade technique for Nanami. Useful both in and out of combat. A technique that makes use of her Sharingan. It dawned on Nanami, that like the chidori the Chakra scalpel could be a base for countless jutsu.

Nanami wasn't at all reluctant to use her Sharingan. She put it to use through all her training so far. According to what she had learned at the academy about the Sharingan, is that the third tomoe is based on how much and how hard the person practices and uses it. She would try through practical means to increase the Sharingan's power to the third tomoe.

The young woman asked Sakura if she could teach her the Chakra Scalpel technique. Sakura studies the girls expression when she asked. It seemed to be genuine, and there was no ulterior motive. The Chakra scalpel was added to her training regimen. This only made her night training worse. She cutback on all training from this point on. Nanami smiled a bit as she laid on a hill "I wonder what everyone else is doing?" She hadn't heard anything from Sigmund. She had heard that Nori began training with Rock. That excited her a bit "If we become a team again. Not many will be able to stop us. I don't know why, but the thought of revenge seems almost pointless now. I can't let it cloud my judgement." Her fist clinched and she made a throwing motion almost like she was throwing something away "I remember your words Sasuke-kun. I won't follow the dark path any further." She kips up in one fluid motion. Its clear now, that her clumsy movements were gone.

The level of chakra control kept steadily rising. It was even noticeable in her wind and fire jutsu. The tornado's were much larger, and her flame jutsu looked more like a flame wall. She was able to materialize her arrows fully and launch them at the a faster speed then with the bow. If she focused she could even to some limited degree control their flight path. She could cause the wind and flame arrows to detonate mid flight which gave her even more versatility and surprise.

Her progress on the chakra scalpel was moving along quite well. Sakura seemed pleased, and also a little concerned. She saw how Nanami trained relentlessly. It reminded her of Guy in a way. Nanami was never silly or outlandish with her training like he was. But also looking at how strong guy became. She saw Nanami's growth potential to have no cieling. The month comes to an end.


                           
The sixth month arrived. This lead to a paramount challenge for Nanami. She was placed in charge of the clinic for the day. She had to direct the other medical staff, as well as determine which injuries had to be treated first. The day went along fine. So far no major injuries. Just a lot of minor to medium injuries. Burns, broken bones, bruises, and such. Two hours before her shift ended an alarm went up meaning a critically wounded patient was inbound. Nanami quickly started barking commands. She had the operating room , burn ward, and the healing ward on standby. She took a deep breath as the sounds of many footfalls echoed in the clinic.

Nanami did not recognize the boy. He was about her age, but seemed to be dressed in fine clothes. Another man followed by a cadre of Anbu ninja. It was the Land of fire's Daimyo. Apparently there was a fight that broke out on his way back to his home. His son was caught in the crossfire. Nanami directed to medical ninja to get him into the O.R. stat. Her and three other medical ninja began various healing treatment. The wounds weren't deep but the boy had lost a lot of blood. She read the boys file and sent for several blood packs of the appropriate blood. After Nanami and the others had closed all the arteries, and sealed the boys wounds. Then they began a transfusion of the blood. The boy regained his color and started breathing normally. The boy was sent to the recovery ward. The Daimyo thanked Nanami a milion times. Nanami made sure he knew it was all of them including her staff. They were thanked as well. The shift came to an end for Nanami. She goes int othe office and collapses into a chair. She fell asleep with a smile.

Her second life saved. Nanami loved the feeling of saving someone's life. It made her push herself even harder. The month ended with a big leap in progress towards learning the Chakra Scalpel.

                         The seventh month started with an increase in difficulty. Everything they had learned was being put to the test. Then a twist. Sakura started explaining how small adjustments in chakra output, and in shaping the jutsu could create a new use for the jutsu. Or even a whole new jutsu. We watched and followed Sakura's lead. Nanami picked it up quite quickly. She loved altering Jutsu's and seeing where they lead. She found many other uses for her various jutsu. Like using her wind jutsu to snuff out fires. Though Sakura never forgot about Nanami's Sharingan. Sakura also did some one on one training. Sakura taught Nanami how to use the Sharingan to identify poisons, chakra affliction, bleed points, and so on. She used the Sharingan as Sakura instructed.

The weeks went by quite quickly. Every day there was something new to learn, and Nanami wanted to learn everything she could. Her time for night training had all but vanished by this point. She still went on runs and practiced taijutsu. At this point Nanami was very close to learning the Chakra Scalpel jutsu. The last day of the month was an odd one. Sakura called Nanami out to a training ground. She explained to Nanami that the months prior, that she had been watching her train, and that the level of training was something to be proud of. Sakura went on to tell her that Nanami reminded her of both Naruto and Sasuke when they were her age. She was thankful that Nanami didn't run off seeking revenge or the like. Nanami would shake her head and explain that would break a deal she had made with someone. She doesn't go back on her word.

After they talked for a while. Sakura explained the real reason why she had summoned Nanami to the training grounds. Sakura wanted to test Nanami's Taijutsu. Nanami was on edge for a moment. Then the sparring started and Nanami found out what it felt like to be hit by Sakura. It was like a frieght train slamming into your body. Nanami kept up and blocked several attacks. But Sakura was a lot faster then she seemed. Sakura paused and told Nanami to use her Sharingan. Nanami obliged and they began again. This time it was completely different. She was able to predict some of Sakura's movements. She blocked and even landed a few blows. While Nanami's punches were no where near Sakura's level. Her kicks were powerful. Sakura smiled and looked at Nanami explaining how she kicks like Tsunade did. That made Nanami happy. After they finished. Sakura mended all the bruises on Nanami and sent her home for the day. Another month gone, and yet the coming months would be an even bigger trial for Nanami.


                               
The eighth month began with a hard and difficult test. She managed to pass. The test was on stuff they had yet to cover. Nanami realized that the test was more of what we knew and how to apply it to the questions. Nanami kept up her duties in the Clinic. She delivered several babies, did a few minor surgeries, and one major one. Unfortunately the major one was afflicted with an unknown jutsu. There was dark chakra in the mans blood. Nanami immediately asked where the man had come from. Apparently a skirmish had broken out near the Land of Snow. The man was a causality of the conflict. There was no way to be sure if it was Kotatsu. Sakura saw the look in her eyes, its one Sakura had seen in Sasuke's eye's many times throughout her life with him. Nanami hadn't noticed yet. But the Sharingan was glowing brighter then ever. This concerned Sakura. She quickly ushered Nanami into her office and they had a long talk. Nanami nodded and explained she was just angry that she couldn't do anything to help the man or the others in that fight.

Nanami took several deep breaths and smiled again. She went about her duties without so much as mentioning the incident. This month she had finished learning the Chakra Scalpel. Once Nanami had learned it she began to use it not only in the clinic. It made a huge difference. Then she started training with it for combat use. Nanami's Sharingan allowed her to move without fear of accidentally striking herself or anyone that wasn't her target. Nanami came to find it could destroy organic material and stone. It was a scary technique, and a very useful technique for saving lives and taking them. Sakura watched Nanami closely for any sudden changes, ones that Sasuke exhibited before he left the Leaf Village. None were exhibited, but even Sakura could feel the eerie killing intent. Almost exactly like Sasuke's, this worried her as well.


                     
The ninth month begins. Sakura shifts the focus of Nanami's training from chakra control, which Nanami excelled at. It was changed to Nanami's Stamina and chakra reserves. So the training changed for Nanami as Sakuya had chakra in spades. Not only was it physical it was also spiritual. Nanami meditated for hours on end. Sakura then had her do mountain climbing and wall running. Doing all these things together was tiring. But Nanami felt her chakra growing. One night as she meditated, and Sakura was watching her. Nanami's chakra aura became visible. This was not a common thing. It took Sakura by surpise. That was the only time Sakura saw Nanami's chakra aura. Nanami's chakra reserves grew and grew. She was able to create and fire her arrows while performing flips and rolls. It was impressive to watch. Nanami's fire arrow explosions were kind of scary, but cool looking at the same time. The radius, the color.

Sakura began training Nanami on the principles of the six paths. Nanami found it really quite amazing. The Rinnegan was barely explained in the outlines for Dojutsu. Only it was said to be the strongest next to the True Byakugan that Kaguya wielded. This became an area that Nanami started studying. She read everything she could find about the six paths. She read about a few of the powers each of the paths could wield. But there was no mention of a clan or how one causes the Rinnegan to appear. This became a hobby of sorts. She spent a lot of time in the archives reading what she could. There wasn't much. Nanami absorbed what she could and asked many questions about them. Nanami eventually calmed down on the subject. Though Nanami kept digging whenever she found something new. The ninth month comes to an unusual end.

                                 The tenth month began with a lecture on natural chakra or Senjutsu. The training and ability to absorb natural chakra is long and arduous. This peaked Nanami's curiousity even more then the six paths. Due to the fact that the six paths seemed unattainable. While Senjutsu could be trained upon. This is where Nanami's focus changed. However she knew no one in the village outside of their captured Hokage, that knew or could even train someone in Senjutsu. This did not curb her enthusiasm though. Sakura told her the basics. But warned her not to attempt it without a proper teacher. Nanami knew for the time being that there was no such teacher. Though this gave Nanami a side mission to find someone or something to train her in Senjutsu. She spent her free time researching people, and the clans of various summons. Though it hadn't dawned on her yet. It would near the end of her training.

After those lectures things became a bit interesting. Nanami was trained to identify most of the poisons found in the world. So that an antidote or jutsu may be used to remove or cure it. Sakura showed them how to extract poisons, and parasites from the blood. It was fascinating, though Sakuya seemed to pick up the proper methods faster. They both seemed to be able to grasp it quite quickly. Both removing the poisons and identifying them. Nanami still found a little time to train her Taijutsu. The tenth month ended.


                                 The eleventh packed in even more information. Though Nanami was sidetracked with the thoughts of learning Senjutsu. Her goal was similar, but a little altered. She now wanted to become the strongest ninja. So nobody would cause death like this new enemy was. Nanami kept up her Stamina and chakra reserve training. She enjoyed meditating. She used it to center herself, and focus. Occasionally her aura appears for a brief moment. Like a flash of light. Not even Nanami saw it. So she never bothered to look into it. More tests and more surgeries. They became regulars at the Clinic. This is when Nanami seemed to forget all about the tragedy. Even if she can't save a person she tries her hardest too. Sakura never doubted Nanami's resolve. More and more Sakura saw Tsunade in her. They were both quite similar. Both ferocious combatants, but they were both selfless. Their skill sets matched up quite a bit as well. Strong with medical ninjutsu, but also strong in comabt. Sakura smiled as she watched them run the clinic.

More and more severely wounded ninja and villagers who were caught in the crossfire, were brought in. Nanami was exhausted already. Yet she had a room full of patients. Nanami kept at it until her shift ended. Sakura gave her the rest of the night to sleep. Which Nanami did. The dreams started coming back and more vividly. Always explosions and ninja in black with an odd headband. Neither of those two features were ever clear though. Like her subconscious was hiding them from her. The entire month was spent in the clinic. Putting what they had learned to use. It was very tiring, but Nanami loved it. Working there was never dull or boring. Month eleven ends..


            The last month was spent in review. Nanami asked as many questions about Senjutsu as she could. Though it did finally dawn on her to ask a final request of Sakura. Nanami asked if she could talk with Katsuya about two things. Nanami knew she was asking a lot of Sakura. She hoped Sakura would grant her final request.

[Private to GM: If allowed we can do that bit of RP in PM's, or wherever you wanted to.]

Sakura went over everything they had learned. Had them perform each jutsu she had taught them. Nothing was lost to Nanami. The Sharingan also gave her a better memory it seemed. Maybe a perk unique to her. Everything went smoothely. She still was a ways away from Sakura's skill. She knew she had a lot more training to do. Though she felt much stronger, smarter, faster, and she felt like she had an endless amount of chakra. After all the chakra reserve training and stamina training. Nanami had little issues with running out of chakra. Nanami smiled as Sakura congratulated them. They did what usually takes three years in one. Which was amazing for two genin to do. Nanami bowed and thanked her for the year of training. It was intense and fun. Nanami never regretted taking on this training. She loved it. Nanami learned so much, and it gave her a goal to reach for.

After leaving she went home and at a meal with her father for one time during that year. Shikamaru was busy with work, Nanami was busy with training. So they got to eat together for once. It was peaceful. Nanami talked about her training and what she had learned. the night flew by quickly.

Overall Nanami grew to be about 5'7". She cut her hair to be just above her shoulders, if not a little shorter. She traded in her Kimono look for something more practical (Check her character page for the updated look.) Also she no longer carries her bow with her.

Nanami walked out of her house and up to the training ground where they had first met their Sensei. She remembered the couple weeks of training they actually got to have. It was fun. Even Sigmund laughed. For a time Nanami actual got Sigmund to open up a little. These were all memories that came back to her as she looked at the training grounds. She walked over to a corner and planted a white orchid. Nanami said a few things about how he will be missed. She kicks off landing in the center of the water. She remembers falling in a few times when they did water walking training.  Nanami smiled remembering how she displayed her ability to dance with her elements. Even though it was short. These memories will stay with her forever.

Everything seemed to overwhelm her as she stood on the water. Tears welled up and hit the sparkling water. She only cried for a moment. Then a smile flashed over her face. She began to sing. This is the first time anyone has heard her actually sing. Her voice was spot on as she sang a song about friends and friends lost. Her voice seemed to carry over the entire village. Even to the point where people gathered and listened to her. Though while she sang her flames danced around her creating quite the sight. Nanami had no real idea that a lot of people had gathered. But it seemed like everyone needed something to wake them up from the miseries many suffered. The song ended with a small tribute to their Sensei. It was at this point she noticed the fifty or so people clapping. She smiled and waved not realizing that she had been singing so loudly. But it felt good letting all that emotion out.
This message was last edited by a game editor at 07:40, Tue 01 Aug 2017.

   It wasn't long until he heard singing nearby. The signing had disrupted his meditation. From the tree of the training grounds at the academy, it wasn't long until he saw a crowd of locals, applauding and gawking at the musical performance from a red haired. Narrowing his eyes from afar, he realized it wasn't just some ordinary villager, it had been Nanami, his former squad mate, He noticed the changes in her demeanor, her hair fairly much shortly than what he remembered, and she danced with grace. He wasn't surprised that she'd try to show off her newly appointed training which was clear it had paid off.

   He was more annoyed that more people had gathered around, creating an uncomfortable noise disruption. He didn't think he'd see Nanami again though. Deep down, he was grateful she made it back from her various trips. He hadn't spoken to her in about a year and he never spoke to Nori again either. They all had went their separate ways and as far as he heard, out of the trio, he was the only one who was promoted to Chunin rank while they remained genin for the fact that they were not around to receive the promotion.

   He remained in the tree, just watching silently. His hair fell around his face as he patiently waited for this new sensei of theirs. Their old sensei was but only a memory in which he hated thinking back on, however a sensei like that made an impression on them. He left behind three wonderful students and unfortunately a family here in Konoha. Sigmund paid his respects when he ran into his widowed wife and fatherless children, but nobody could ever replace the guidance he had provided for them. He had worked them passed their limits and showed them the true meaning of friendship and teamwork, however Sigmund had a feeling that they were all going to get off at a rough start like before. But this time, Sigmund had rankage over them; his commands were final.

   The sun shined throughout the village, an atmosphere Sigmund was use to. He was eager to get back out of Konoha and travel. Staying put wasn't his forte anymore; all the traveling he had done only made him more adventurous and eager to go into battle already.

There have been many tales, many stories, many songs of events that have changed the course of history, that people, to this day, still sing, read, and talk about. Some good. Some bad yet still memorable. To future generations, they would never be able to understand or comprehend what was lost, what was sacrificed, what was given to hand them the life they had. While these events were a win for some, there were many that lost something or someone precious. Husbands. Wives. Sons. Daughters. Friends. Mothers. Fathers. Senseis. Pride. Honor. Respect. There were just some things that could never be given back. Sadly, there is always a cost for something that is gained and for Nori, what happened at Kumogakure was no story, song, or tale to her. It was an event that truly changed her life forever. A memory that was going to stay embedded into not just her mind, but in her body. She would remember every detail. Every sensation. Every feeling that she ever felt. While Sigmund had treated her bones and made her whole again, there were just wounds that no amount of chakra would ever be able to heal. There would be no medical mantra or technique that would be able to change the scars that were inflicted upon Nori's heart. There was nothing she could do to change what happened. All she could do was blame herself for not being strong or quick enough. If she had been, she could have saved their sensei. She could have saved the one person in her life whose life mattered to her more than her own. Instead all she could do was mourn the loss of their sensei and sit on a hard, plastic stool as she watched Sigmund lay in a bed helpless and in pain. There was never a time in her life where she felt more helpless than she did in that instant. Something had to change and she knew this well.

While Nanami came in and announced her departure from the group to go and train, Nori knew there was nothing she could do to change her mind. To make her stay. She had an ambition and she was going to see it through to the end. Nori was sure that leaving the group wasn't for good. She believed her friend and her teammate would come back one day. She didn't know when, but she knew when she did, things would never be the same. All she found she could do was be understanding of her friend's decision and wish her the best of luck. However, although she thought that, she wasn't sure if Sigmund had felt the same way. Maybe he did understand Nanami to a degree that she didn't, but she somehow knew that if he had the opportunity to train with Sasuke Uchiha to get stronger, he would have. There was no one he looked up to more than him. However, after parting ways with Nanami, it made Nori think of what she wanted for herself. Where was she going to go from here? The wound on this village and on this world, was going to take a very very long time to heal. And Nori...she never wanted something to happen like this again. There was so much loss. So much pain. She never wanted anyone to feel this kind of pain again. Although, being realistic, she knew there was nothing she could do to change this world or the people in it, but there was one thing she could change and that was herself.

When an opportunity arose and she heard Rock Lee, the master of Taijutsu and her idol, had been in the village of Konoha, a conflict stirred within Nori's heart and mind. She could stay here, be with Sigmund, and help him recover or she could seek this opportunity to meet Rock Lee, plead with him to take her under his wing, and make her stronger so nothing like what happened at Kumogakure would ever happen again. Nori had to decide what she wanted more and when she thought of Sigmund, all she could think of was that she wanted to protect him. He would probably think it useless for her to even try as he saw her as the weak link of the trio, but she knew she had to try. She had to be better, stronger not just for herself, but for him so she never had to see him in a hospital bed like this again. So she decided. She would return to Konoha and even though her chances may have been slim, she knew she had to try. It wasn't an easy decision for her to make and she could only hope in her mind that Sigmund of all people would understand why she had to do this. It wasn't that she wanted to leave him. She had to leave him. Nori knew he would never forgive her if she didn't take this opportunity and just stayed here to babysit and watch over him. So about a week after the tragedy happened, she discussed her leaving with Sigmund and although he didn't say much, deep down she knew he had to have understood. She told him she would write him letters and check on him every now and then to see how he was doing. But she never knew that with her leaving that he would see it as abandonment. So with a kiss to Sigmund's cheek, she packed her bag and left for Konoha without looking back.

When she arrived at Konoha, Rock Lee was the first person she sought out. It wasn't her parents, but him. She just needed time. She was sure they had heard about what happened and that they were probably worried about her, but she couldn't have their worries on her shoulders now. She wasn't going to let anything weigh her down anymore. She wasn't going to be the weak link on the chain. She was going to change. She would definitely change and she would show her teammates just how much when they came back together again. Upon finding Rock Lee, she told him her story and what had happened. Deep down in him, Rock Lee felt that Nori had somehow resonated with him on a level that he didn't think someone of her age could possible do. She reminded him so much of how he was at her age. He was always determined to get stronger and although he wasn't the strongest in ninjutsu techniques, he remembered a man that took a chance on him and wanted to help him achieve his dreams of being the best in hand to hand combat. Rock Lee saw that this girl had the look of determination in her eyes and the willingness to work hard. After careful consideration, he agreed to be Nori's mentor. Nori was beyond ecstatic, but could not be grateful for this opportunity. She knew she was going to have to work hard to even get close to what Rock Lee could do, but she was more than willing to train day and night if that is what it took to get stronger.

From the first moment of training, Nori listened carefully to what guidance Rock Lee had to offer finding that, just like him when he was young, writing down what guidance he was giving her was going to be useful. However, training was more than just what was on paper. Taijutsu was solely based on the art of using your body to fight and in order to do that, one had to condition their body first both physically and mentally. You had to have good instincts, use good judgment on what move to use, stay focused on not just your opponent, but your surroundings. One couldn't lose composure in a time of battle. There were going to be battles that you would lose, but that doesn't mean you should give up. You had to get up, dust it off, and try again. And that is what Nori did every single time she fell. The first month of training was hard as she had to push herself beyond the limits of what she thought she was capable of, but over time, she found herself gradually adapting to Rock Lee's methods and techniques and her own skills improving. Bit by bit, she found herself getting stronger. Not just mentally, but physically. Like Rock Lee, he strapped weights to her ankles. Light at first. Not too heavy, but over time, those weight became heavier. Nori didn't quite understand why she needed them at first. Finding that all they were doing were weighing her down, but Rock Lee informed that that was the very purpose of the weights. He didn't tell her exactly why at first, but told her that even at night while she slept that she had to wear them.

Until one day came where he told her to take them off and to come at him with her Leaf Rising Wind technique. When she took off straight for him, she found that her speed had increased vastly. Although she had managed to land a few hits on him, her attack was still unsuccessful but that was to be expected at this point. 'A taijutsu user has to be quick on their feet and fast with their hands. You must always be one step ahead of your opponent. Look at their feet. Anticipate where they are going to move and which side they are going to strike. You must always be prepared to take a hit on both sides of your body. Do not assume. Your hands and your feet are your quickest means of defense, so use them accordingly even when you are using them as a means to attack.' Those were words that Rock Lee had given her and words that she would never forget. 'As I told you in the beginning, a taijutsu uses their bodies as a means to defend and attack. There is more to it than that. You must use your brain, your strongest muscle, and your senses.' Nori wasn't exactly sure what he had meant when he told her to use her senses to help her, but little did she know that they contributed more than she ever thought possible. Touch. Feel. Taste. Smell. See. Hear. Surprisingly, they played a bigger part in a battle than she realized. Rock Lee called it a Spirit Sensor. This had allowed him to be more aware of his surroundings than any regular person would be. It was a technique that even he had taken some time to learn, but was sure that Nori would pick it up fairly quickly. She seemed to have good instincts about her and her ability to focus was impeccable.

Over time, her flexibility and dexterity began to climb and her speed only seemed to increase each and every day that she used those weights. These things certainly came in handy when she practiced her 16 Palms technique. They had worked more on her increasing the accuracy, strength, flexibility, and strength of each kick and punch. It was a technique she wanted to perfect as it was one that she had worked on with her sensei and there was nothing more she wanted to do than to make him proud. When she had first started learning it with him, it was still something that she was trying to get down and there were many failures at getting it right, but Rock Lee had shown her a whole different side to performing this technique and over time, using everything that he had taught her to use with her mind and senses, she was able to perform the move successfully with no problems at all. She had even managed to take Rock Lee down, which to her, was a big accomplishment. She couldn't wait to tell Sigmund about it and with every time she progressed in her training, she would write him a letter. However, she never seemed to get a response back, which was something she was expecting. Where was he at? What was he doing? Was he okay? Those were things that she asked herself each and every day, but Nori knew she couldn't focus on him right now. She needed to focus on herself. She had to remind herself of why she was doing this and it wasn't just for him. It was for her.

In the time that they were training together, Rock Lee had shown and Nori different techniques that he was taught at her age and upon seeing her abilities, he knew there was something inside her that if she continued her training, she would be able to tap into them even more and if that happened... There were certain things that he did indeed teach her in the ways of conditioning her body and making her attacks stronger. However, little did she know that he was training her to perform certain techniques for a reason. She had the potential to do one of the strongest moves that took him years to learn. He knew the toll it would take and what it was capable of doing, but Nori was a lot more different than he was. He was just hesitant to teach her this move because of how dangerous it could be. She was still young and he was sure her body could only handle it to a certain extent. It did require the body to push past the natural limits after all. When he sat her down and told her about what he wanted to teach her, Nori seemed a little hesitant. It seemed dangerous and that could do her body physical harm, but when he told her it was only something to be used in the most dire situation or to protect something dear to her, she thought of Sigmund and Nanami. If she could protect them, then it would be worth it. Not entirely sure what she was getting herself into, Nori agreed to have Rock Lee begin to teach her this move, but was warned that was it was going to take time to build up and the more she did, the more dangerous it would become. However, she knew she had to do this. If she wanted to be stronger, she had to.

And thus, Rock Lee began to slowly train Nori of one of his most well know techniques, but it would not be named. In the last remaining months they had together, like she was told, Nori's body did take a beating and she was exhausted and in pain, but she made progress. Progress that she was sure was going to take her far when she returned back to her team. She was not going to be the weak link anymore. Her time with her mentor came to an end, but she was told that whenever she wanted to continue her training, to find him and they would. She thanked Rock Lee for everything she had learned from him and in turn, he thanked her for everything he learned from her. When she left him, he couldn't help but see the back of the young child he used to be. She was so full of hope. So full of determination. She was not the girl he had met a year ago. She was stronger and somehow he had a feeling that he was going to hear amazing things about her one day. She would be one of those people that changed the course of this world forever.

The morning came when Nori would meet with their new Sensei and her teammates once more. She was sure that much change and growth had happened and she honestly couldn't wait to see what it was they had gained over this one year. She through her new waist length hair into a ponytail and tied it tight at the top of her head. In the year she had grown, it was not only her mind that had matured, but her body as well. She was taller, a little leaner but was toned and defined in certain parts of her body. Especially in her arms and legs where she grew more muscle. She strapped her weights to her ankles, which had felt like paper weight to her now, and her wrists. Hiding them beneath her clothes. She wore black, mid thigh capris, mid calf black socks, a fitted burgundy tank top, a black black on her left hand, her headband strapped to her waist by a belt, and white bandage wrap that extended from the palm of her hand and up to her elbow. Okay. She was ready. After she grabbed an apple from the fruit bowl on the counter, Nori made her way out of the door of her house and walked down the path that would lead to her next adventure.

Time skip posts are complete for this group.

Resume normal RP now please.

   From afar, he began to see another familiar face heading his way and Nanami's entertainment circle. Nori. Great. he thought to himself. He dreaded the reunion with both of them truthfully. As much as he wanted to hear about their travels, accomplishments, and training, the showing off had already irritated enough to not want to be around either of the girls. He admitted he was still mad at them. He was glad they found a way to better themselves, but to abandon him in his time of vulnerable state; a time where he needed his friends to support him in his recovery but they ditched him. They left him in that hospital bed to practically rot. He didn't receive any letters from Nanami and Nori sent constant letters that managed to make their way to him and he only read one and after that, he forwarded them back to his home with his parents. He didn't need the distractions from his own training.

   Thinking about the whole ordeal made him clench his fists. He resented them but he promised himself he would tolerate them long enough before he could continue his own journey. After learning the family history of himself, he only wanted to get stronger. ANBU wasn't even a goal anymore; he wanted to be a legend without having ties to anyone, anything, or a village. He would prove himself in this mission. He was able to practice his leadership skills with newly graduated genin upon returning awhile ago. He focused on team tactics, communication, and diplomacy. He lead them on several missions of retriever and recover, whether it was a stealth approach or going all in; he helped them discover what they wanted to do when they reached his rank. Lastly, he helped them learn one jutsus each, even though C-Rank, he kept it pretty basic by teaching them His most basic Lightning jutsu.

   He eventually got lost in thought, forgetting about both the girls as he reminisced.

Nori had approached the familiar training grounds that she and her teammates had  been on over a year ago and it was as she was doing so that she heard a beautiful singing voice coming from the direction of the lake. She found the voice to be soothing and almost trance like. She stopped in her tracks and closed her eyes. The song had made her go back in time to a place where things were once peaceful and just. Where their sensei had been alive and pushing them to work together as a team. Everything that he did to train them, both as individuals and as a team, was only to help enhance their abilities so they could help each other when the time came. Like that time back in Kumogakure. After seeing the death of their sensei only caused them to attack on pure impulse and without thought. They had been foolish to think there was something they could do, but at that moment when someone precious to them was taken away, they thought of nothing but to avenge him. Thinking back on it now, Nori knew their sensei wouldn't not want them to do something so reckless for his sake. He would not want them to die to simply avenge him. What he would want is for them to do him proud and maybe coming together again and working as a team would do just that.

Nori was sure that here had been much change in Nanami and Sigmund. So much that she  was anticipating to see exactly what this year had done for them. It was a period of growth and of change. None of them would be the same person they were when they parted ways a year ago. Somehow she felt , though, that Sigmund resented her for leaving. He never returned any letters when she wrote to him , but then again, would it be like him to take the time to write one back? She didn't think so. He was probably too focused on healing and his training. In this process, there were wounds that all three of them needed to heal from. They needed to come back stronger and better than the person that they were on the fateful day. Not all pain and wounds were physical. And she could only hope that Sigmund understood that. Leaving had been the toughest thing she ever had to do and she was sure that he didn't want her around anyways. He never really did. He only saw her as weak saw himself as someone that she would never be able to catch up to.

Nori opened her eyes and began to walk closer to the singing. Well, she was going to prove that she wasn't the same person she was a year ago. She was stronger, faster, smarter, and more mature than the person she was back then. She would be damned if she ever let him see her as the weak link again. She began to slowly make her way through the crowd and stopped when she reached the front. Although her appearance had changed, she knew instantly who this girl was that was standing on the water. She made eye contact with Nanami and  said nothing as she brought up a hand to give her a wave.

Nanami smiled as she looked at the many other smiles from the people around. To Nanami this wasn't showing off, this was her tribute to their Sensei. It was a powerful message she had hoped his soul would feel and hear. The thing with Nanami is she wanted to be known. She had a big goal now. A goal that would take more then her lifetime. Nanami could guess at how Sigmund would great her. She expected this type of greating regardless if she had stayed or not.

She finished three years of training in one year. This to her was a huge step in the right direction. Regardless if Sigmund hates her or not. Her next goal was simple, find Kotatsu and begin the undoing of those who had hurt so many.

As her song ended she saw Nori waving to her. She waved back. They both looked a little more mature and Nanami was definately more toned then when she left. She makes a hand seal and kick off high above the crowd performing some spins and such. She lands in front of Nori her eyes sparkled "Its been a long while. I hope you can forgive me for leaving like I did? After the battle with Kotatsu I had little choice. I needed to know more, and become stronger. I finished three years of training in one year. It was very rough. I have learned so much. Though I have new laws to follow being a certified medical ninja. How did training go on your end? Rumor around the village is Rock took you on as an apprentice, is that true?" Her face was all happy as she talked "I have yet to talk to Sigmund, have you heard anything from him?"
This message was last edited by a game editor at 17:19, Sat 05 Aug 2017.

When Nori saw Nanami wave back at her, she lightly giggled and let her hand fall back down to her side. She didn't know how it was going to be between three of them when they got back together, but somehow she knew that things were going to be okay between her and Nanami. The two of them seemed to have left on a mutual understanding and the two of them did stay in contact whenever they could throughout the year they were apart. It was probably more contact than either of them had with Sigmund. Nori didn't want to think that he was upset with either of them for leaving because when she had left, he didn't really seem to care less. He really didn't know how hard it was for her to leave him after everything she had said to him that day in the infirmary. She was sure that he knew that she had liked him, but he wasn't interested. They weren't even really friends. Just teammates, so why should he have cared if she left or not? It wasn't as if he tried to stop her, either but stopping her was probably the last thing that he would do.

Nori watched as Nanami did a few spinning tricks and other moves after she kicked off from the water. Soon her friend was standing in front of her. The girl certainly did look a lot different than she did when she left, but she should have expected? It had been a year. She looked much more mature than she did a year ago. However, she still did have that same sparkle in her eyes like she did before. "It has been awhile, hasn't it?" she said with a small smile and listened to her speak about how she had to leave to get stronger, but she knew that all too well herself. "Nanami, it's alright. You don't need to apologize for anything. I understand why you had to leave because, I, too, left for the same reason. I had to get stronger. I didn't want to be the weak link anymore. More than anything, I...wanted to be able to protect something from happening like it had with Sigmund. I never want to see him or you in that position again."

Nori brought up her hand and placed it on Nanami's shoulder in a comforting manner. "Thank you for staying in contact with me and letting me know how you were doing. It all sounded so amazing. I have also learned a lot and have grown a lot stronger than we were last together. I learned a lot from Rock Lee. He taught me so many things. I can't wait to show you...and Sigmund." Upon hearing her ask about their teammate, Nori lightly shook her head and removed her hand from her shoulder. "I haven't, but then again, I haven't talked to Sigmund since the day I left Kumogakure. I wrote him letters, but never received anything in return. Somehow I get a feeling he's angry at me for leaving him. I would hope that he would understand why I had to, but then again, he might see things a lot differently than what I hoped."

Nanami sighs a little as she looks around "You know those weeks leading up to the chunin exams. We all acted like teammates and friends. The chunin exams kind of ruined that a little. Sigmund made it us versus him. It frustrated me to no end. I never understood what caused that change. I remember the first talk I had with him. He actually smiled. I wish he had chosen a different path, but there's nothing I can do about that." Nanami seemed almost a little sad. Though she smiled through it.

The young woman smiled "I missed you and him. I will say if anything, Sigmund was good at motivating us. Though I am not sure that was ever his intent." Her gaze looked back and down towards their Sensei's old house "My mind no longer falls to revenge. Its not what our Sensei would want. My purpose is to find our Hokage and keep you two alive. That is all that truly matters. If we get too kill those responsible for Sensei's death while doing so. Then that is just a bonus." Nanami hugs Nori and lets out a sigh of relief "I think our new Sensei is suppose to meet us here."

   It wasn't long until a courier arrived and appeared in front of Sigmund. He had tossed a scroll to him so quickly it almost caught him off guard however it brought him back to reality for a moment.

   "I was told to find you by the one and only Sasuke-sama. Jin-sama will be arriving late, maybe not make me apperance. With your rank, Sasuke asked me for you to personally take on this on and regroup," And his the courier explained, Sigmund just watched the courier disappear again. As a Chunin it was his duty to to lead and fulfill and do what he needed to do, even if it meant facing the girls again. He sighed, dreading that reunion because he honestly didn't want to hear it and he'd have to pretend to be friendly with them again.

   He sat on the tree branch and opened the golden scroll after untying the black string that held it together. It detailed a mission that they were assigned and needed to deal with it immediately. As he kept reading it, his eyes widen to the information he kept reading and when he got to a particular part, a look of revenge was in his eyes. He would definitely take on this mission, but he wanted to do this alone. He didn't want the showing off female duo over there on his tail because it wouldn't slow him down, but it would just be annoying and he doubt they'd all work together again.

   He sighed as he jumped down from the tree, the scroll in hand  mid-way from falling down to the ground, he had disappeared and reappeared near one of the academy buildings close to the girls. He had stood up tall, completely unrecognizable. His hands remained hidden inside his pants' pockets and looked down at the two of them. "Afternoon, ladies," he greeted. His hair was long and spiked, passed his shoulders and his eyes a piercing blue color. Dark eyeliner outlined the lower lids of his eyes. His hair moved slightly with the breeze. His face seemed to have remained hidden with the hair's motion with the wind. The scroll had remained in his pocket for the time being.

Nori thought back to the time before the chunin exams had begun, thinking of when exactly Sigmund had actually acted like a friend to her. He just her as an annoyance that he had to tolerate. Maybe he got along with Nanami because he actually respected her abilities and her as a person. When did she ever receive that from him? There was no use dwelling on that now. It was in the past and she was over that. However, there was still a small part of her that wanted his friendship again. She knew she probably would never be able to obtain it, though. "Sigmund is...very different than he was as a kid like I remember him. Of course people change. I understand that. I honestly just wondered what it was that changed between us? He started seeing me as more as a rival than an actual friend. Sigmund is going to do things his way for his reasons and we don't have to agree with them as much as we may dislike them. He's not going to be diverted simply because of our opinions." And now that he was a Chunin, his decisions were going to be final since he ranked above them. However, it was because of that that she feared it would cause more bumps along the road.

"I missed you, too. And Sigmund, but I don't think the feeling is mutual with him. However, I have learned to accept that things are never going to be easy with him. After training with Mr. Lee for a year, I have learned that the small little things don't matter. The fighting, the arguing, the disagreements. They are trivial. I refuse to let the past have a hold on me and I refuse to be treated as insubordinate by him. I do respect Sigmund as a teammate and I do respect his abilities, but that feeling of respect should be mutual. We should learn to forgive what happened in the past and move on. We have to work together as a team even if we aren't all friends. Things aren't the same anymore as they were a year ago, Nami," she said with a soft solemness in her voice as she, too, turned her head and looked over towards their Sensei's old house. "I know sensei would want us to work together. That is the least we could do to honor his memory. We couldn't do anything to save him back then and I think of that experience as something to be learned from. We each have our own goals in mind, but I think we can all help each other achieve them. I know that is something Sensei would want." She smiled and brushed a strand of hair behind her ear as she looked into Nanami's eyes before she wrapped her arms around her in return to give her a hug back.

Before she could respond, Nori felt a gust of wind blow through her hair and something in that instant changed. Her senses told her that another presence had just joined them and she was right. She slowly let go of her friend and turned her head to see that it was indeed Sigmund. He looked very different than from when the last time she saw him, but that was to be expected. "Sigmund," she said with a curt nod as she turned towards him.

Nanami looked up. Even though the boy that stood before her looked more grown up. The voice and demanor had not changed in the slightest. Well at least to her. At first she didn't reply. Or wasn't really sure what to reply with. Though she knew via Sakura, that Sigmund had been promoted. To her , in her mind. This wasn't going to be fun at all. Unless Sigmund had changed who he was. She expected him to be worse not better then he used to be. Nanami hoped she was wrong. For Nori's sake, she hoped she was wrong.

Nanami tilts her head as she stood there for a moment pondering exactly what to say. So She decided to test Sigmund in a way. To see if her fears were right or wrong. She hopped up to Sigmund and attempted to hug him "Its been a bit Sigmund. Hopefully your training went well as ours did? Also I am sure you heard I am a certified medical ninja. Anyways, where is our new Sensei? He was suppose to be here by now." Nanami smiled as she always did. She hoped things would go back to the way they were before the chunin exams. Only time will tell this.

   When Nanami hopped up to him, he took two steps back but then she attempted to hug him. Not sure what to do, he stood there frozen in he awkward hug as his hands remained in his pockets still. It felt like forever however only several seconds had passed before he pulled one of his hands out of his pocket and very delicately reached up behind Nanami's back and gave her this awkward hug back. It was forced but civil. He wasnt expecting it.

   When she spoke about her training and Nori's too, he remained silent. He already knew about their training. Word had spread to him rather quickly and Nori's letters kept him up to date. Taking a moment to answer, he finally broke the silence as he dropped his arm around Nanami and back into the pocket it went. "Yes, I heard. You and this Sakuya girl were talk of the town for awhile before I disappeared," he managed to get out before he began to address the sensei concern. "Your new sensei will not be joining us today. I am taking pointtoday," he answered, a more serious tone came out.

When Nanami saw Nanami give Sigmund a sudden hug like that, she wasn't sure how he was going to react. She assumed he would do the polite thing and hug her back. She wasn't exactly sure why her friend had done that knowing the possibility that his reaction would not be a good one, but he actually hugged her back so her initlal thought of him doing it out of politeness was correct. Although the hug seemed to have been distant and somewhat awkward. She could only imagine the reaction she would get if she even tried to attempt something like that. She wasn't going to bring up what had happened when she left nor was she going to apologize. She felt like she did that a lot with him. If he was going to hold some kind of grudge against her and dislike her more for what happened, that was fine. She was past that. "You look well, Sigmund. What is the assignment we were given?" she asked.

   Sigmund's eyes moved quickly and glanced at Nori for a second. He didn't particularly answer her, however he gave a quick smirk and winked at her before stepping away from Nanami. He motioned for Nanami to go back down to Nori as he sat on the edge of the building's roof, pulling out a golden scroll which was missing the black string that kept it tied, indicating he had already opened it for his personal pleasure. He placed it on his lap as he looked down at the girls.

   "You're training is about to pay off. I have here a special S-Rank mission assigned to us personally by the one and only, Uchiha Sasuke," he informed them as he opened it up, unrolling it on his lap and began reading the contents to them. "Accordingly to ANBU, within the last year strange beams of light have been appearing at random in three different lands: The Land of Frost, The Land of Demons, and lastly the The Land of Snow. After careful observation, it is believed the beams of light are responsible for making the Land of Snow suddenly vanish, making it impossible to even cross the borders of the land to enter. Rumor is believed that our good 'ol pal Kotatsu has been seen quite a few times igniting these beams, however that cannot get a confirmed identity on the ninja doing this. The shinobi that has been spotted recently bares black clothing with raven colored hair, but this doesn't necessarily mean it is Kotatsu himself," he paused for a moment to take a look at them. "We are to travel to the Land of Frost to investigate the beams that occur during the late evening and observe how they work and if possible disable if necessary. Because the Land of Snow are involved, it is believed that this won't be a walk in the park. We are to expect confrontations," he finished and rolled the scroll up, placing it back in his pocket.

   "The last note on the scroll states due to the history we have with Kotatsu himself, we are to only take this mission if we cannot promise to not get it over our head that we are going to get revenge. Revenge shouldn't be our motivation to take on this mission. If we cannot promise this to Sasuke, we are to give up the mission and be assigned something else. And if we do give up the mission, if we are seen anywhere near those 3 lands, we will be placed on the missing-nin list and ANBU will be forced to take you down,"" he added. Sigmund understood the nature of the promise. As much as he wanted the revenge, he had cleared that out from his year long journey. The only thing that motivated him to do anything was Sasuke himself and he would do anything to please his mentor no matter what.

Nanami nodded, his response was better then what she thought it would be. She hops down and leans against a tree and listens. Seems even he knew to think of adding that clause. Though revenge was not her intent. Though the mission did not hold the contents she wanted. Nanami knew that mission would hopefully come in time. For now Nanami knew she would have to deal with this mission. So lights being shot into the sky. Her eyes closed as she thought about what they could be. Nanami looked back up to Sigmund "When me and Sasuke had our brief discussion just after the incident at the chunin exams. He warned me never to go down his path. He saw my eyes, he knows how they can guide someone to vengeance." She pauses and then smiles  "I made that promise to him there. He was very clear on that point. This beside, I agree to the terms of the mission."

Nanami takes a deep breath "I am following the goals we set with Sensei. I have no investment in vengeance. It isn't what he would want us to do. He would want us to do our missions, train, become stronger, and live. A path of vengence will lead to two inevitable outcomes. Their death and then the person who was seeking vengeance will not have a path, or that person will die and those close to them will suffer." Her voice lowered a little as she talked about that.

She looked back up at Sigmund "I take it you know the laws governing medical ninja's, Sigmund? When you give me orders take those into account. If your orders break one of those laws. It is my duty to refuse such orders. I wanted to make sure. Just incase there happens to be such a case in the future, that you don't think I am refusing a direct order without cause."   
This message was last edited by a game editor at 01:25, Tue 08 Aug 2017.

   Sigmund was pleased with Nanami's answer to the terms and conditions. Before his eyes glanced at Nori, Nanami brought up an important clause of her own about medical ninja. He was well educated to know in all his years about their own terms. That was the reason why squads had medical ninja to begin with was to ensure the safety of the entire platoon and/or squad. "I am aware of your...conditions. It is not me who has to worry about them. It is you who has to worry about them. I forbid you to even confront any enemies on this mission period. Your laws are between you and your kind. If your laws are broken, that is on you, not me," he addressed. Medical ninja had their clauses or laws as they put it because they were the vital member of their parties.

   Sigmund simply did not want to be the one responsible in breaking those laws. It was on Nanami's shoulders, not his. He'd keep them in mind however he already ordered her to not confront anyone regardless so his word was law in this mission. Who was he to ask her to stop medical treatment, put her on the front line of battle, or have her be the one to die first in their group. He wanted to prevent any casualties on his own. This gave Nori a better role for their trio, but she had yet to prove her worth right now though.

Nori was honestly a little surprised by Sigmund smirking and winking at her. It took her back for a second. That was certainly an interesting reaction. She didn't think she'd get that from him. She lightly folded her arms across her chest and leaned back against a nearby tree as she listened to what the mission was. It didn't sound like it was going to be easy, but if this was coming from Sasuke Uchiha himself then it had to be of vital importance that they proceeded with this mission with caution and of the right state of mind. They couldn't go into this with the intention of revenge, but it was clear that none of them were in that place anymore of wanting to avenge their Sensei that was taken from them. "I want to honor Sensei's memory and do right by him. No good will ever come out of us wanting anything more than doing what he taught us. Kotatsu is an evil being who did a lot of bad things to a lot of good people, but we have to move past that. We can't hold onto those feelings of hate and revenge. If we do, it will only manifest inside us and turn us into cruel human beings. And that...that is not who we are. I want us to be the kind of people that Sensei believed in us to be. We may all be on different levels now, but that doesn't mean we can't carry the same ambitions we did back then," she spoke before she turned her head and looked over in the direction of their Sensei's old house. "He would want us to work hard together as a team and build each other up instead of down. If we pursued this with revenge, we would only be hurting each other, so you have my word that my mind is clear and I have every intention of completing this mission with respect towards Sensei's memory." A wind swept through her long, burgundy hair as she turned her head up and looked at Sigmund.

   With the promise for both girls that their minds were in the right place, it was time to get down to business. He already introduced the mission and briefed it. It was time to pack up and get ready to head out at this point. There was no use in standing around and wanting to train because he didn't want them showing off their newly learned skills. They weren't children anymore, however maybe that's why he found it annoying; he was the grown up here, not them. Standing up from the building again, he began to speak. "Nanami, grab any medical supplies you may need for the trip. I presume they're vital if you're going to be treating us," he ordered and then looked at Nori. "And you, traveling gear for all three of us. It's a long road ahead of us and we'll be needing to make frequent stops," he explained. "I'm going to head to the kage's office; I need to gather the necessary paper work to travel in case we aren't allowed to cross borders. In times like these, everyone is on edge. We are to be careful and communicate. I am done with this childish circle. This is professional. I am not your friend; I am your leader from here on out. This is not a vacation. Lands depend on us," he explained, making his authority clear now.

   "We are to not draw attention to ourselves as best as we can. We are to engage enemy shinobi if necessary. We aim to kill unless otherwise ordered. Nori, it is your job from here on out to protect Nanami. She is to not engage in any confrontation unless ordered to or she willfully does it on her own. They have strict laws and I'm not about to be responsible for that in any way. If she wants to fight she can, but from me, I say no," he ordered. "As your leader, I will protect you with my life if I must. And if the time comes, I order you to step down if we face Kotatsu. This isn't about revenge for our sensei. This is about settling the score. I was cheap shotted last time. I'm not going to let him do it again and I sure as hell will not let him burn down another village. If either of you get in my way, I'll kill you too," he finished. He meant his words. It was because of Kotatsu that he was in the ICU for an entire month. It was painful, lonely, and he had a lot of anger through that entire time. Physical therapy was a nightmare and not to mention that countless stitches, the infection he had gotten, he had a transplant of the liver because it had been shredded to nothing because of Nanami's arrow, and the pain. It was one of the worst recovery periods he had ever experienced; it not only effected his mental health but his physical as well. Now he had scars on his torso to remember the whole ordeal and he sure wasn't going to let Kotatsu get away with it, at least not again.

   After addressing what he needed to, he simply walked away, not wanting to address anymore questions or concerns for the time being. He had things to do. He would continue to lead them on, making them believe everything was all good and okay, but deep down he was still hurting inside and only held hate towards them. He actually found himself scolding himself for winking at Nori. However wouldn't it be the perfect revenge to lead her on and hurt her own feelings? Perhaps, but he needed to keep his cool. When the time came, he'd make the right decision. But for now, he'd go along with this ordeal a little longer. He made his way back to the Kage's office; it wasn't long before he got the correct paper and scrolls he needed from Sasuke. They spoke for a few moments, Sasuke concerned with Sigmund's attitude that he caught outside on the grounds. Sigmund profusely apologized and Sasuke said nothing more on the matter. If anything, Sasuke had his suspicions and addressed it right then and there. After a few moments Sigmund explained all his feelings about the girls and Sasuke could only advise that he tell them as well if ever given the opportunity so he wouldn't head down the wrong path. Sigmund left on the note of a "maybe," and complete silence as he exited the office. Sasuke couldn't help but be reminded of his old self in Sigmund and it worried him, but there were greater things to attend to.

   It wasn't long until Sigmund made his way back to the training grounds, same building, same roof. He had sat on the edge again, playing around with the calcium in his bones. He allowed his bones to crackling and pop and expose themselves out of his skin. He even played around with his finger bullets, shooting every possible rock and tree leaving perfect holes in each one, tearing through each surface as he waited for the girls' return. It was about sunset.

Nanami bowed "As you say sir." The leader role suited Sigmund she thought to herself. That was one point she never had any doubts that Sigmund could excel at it. Though her eyes looked directly into Sigmunds for a moment as he talked about Kotatsu. This worried her greatly. The mission statement applied to him to. If he fights Kotatsu the village will excommunicate him. Something Nanami did not want. But she chose not to speak up. Nanami looked at Nori and smiled "Lets be off. I have a medical kit already stocked. Lady Sakura expected the need for one. I just have to pick it up. I'll see you soon!" Nanami turned and kicked off. Her form was still perfect, her speed had increased.

Nanami made her way towards the clinic. She lands outside the door and walks in. She is greeted by the medical-nin she had trained with, and many of the patients. Nanami smiled, she had some fond memories in the clinic. Nanami picked up her kit and some antidote packs, incase an enemy used poisons. Sakura happened to walk in. They talked for several minutes. Sakura seemed excited that we were going on a mission. Sakura gave the young ninja some advice to follow the mission guidelines, and the medical ninja laws. Nanami nods and leaves. Sakura wishes her good luck as she leaves. Nanami also stops by her house and talks with her father for a few moments as well as gathering some spare clothes.

She kicks off and heads back towards the predetermined meeting spot. Her mind drifted to many fond memories. This was her way of steeling her mind for the coming weeks. Nanami lands next to Sigmund "I am as ready as I can be, Sigmund." Nanami's medical kit had been transferred into her summon scroll to lighten her load a bit.
This message was last edited by a game editor at 07:50, Wed 09 Aug 2017.

   When Nanami finally joined him on top of the roof, he had stopped messing around with his fingers and sat there quietly for a moment. He knew what he wanted to say, but he honestly didn't want to. It couldn't be avoided though. The gaze she had given him earlier, he knew she had wanted to talk about it, scold him even if that was the case. With Nori's absence, it was the best time. Nanami was easier to talk to. He didn't have to worry about hurting her feelings or have that awkward crush crap going on. She was like one of the guys to him, but Nori was just this girl who had goo goo eyes for him and with someone like him, it just wasn't in his cards. He didn't want a repeat of history. He finally broke the silence by saying,"I know what you're going to say." She knew what he was talking about.

Nanami looks at Sigmund "Do you now? I'll give it to you as straight as I can. There are three issues right now that will prevent this team from being the best in the world. I'll do my best not to criticize you. First even without the Sharingan or some special jutsu I can see you are in pain. We left you in a vulnerable state, and you probably felt alone or some sort of betrayal. Though you were the one always saying how weak we were. Thats why when the opportunities came about both me and Nori left. You have to forgive us for leaving you. Know you were in both of our thoughts. Being covered in your blood is what pushed me. I didn't ever want to be in that situation again. I thought I was going to lose a friend, and acted on instinct." She bows deeply "So as your friend I am asking you to forgive me for leaving your side when you needed me most."

She sits down "The second thing is the topic of Kotatsu. We must stay on mission. If it is him or the mission. The mission must come first. In time we will have our vengeance. I will keep you alive long enough for that. I want him dead too. But right now the retrieval of the Hokage and foiling of their plans are the priorities. Also our Sensei told us our priority should be to live and have a life, not to sacrifice our lives for something that is not worth such."

On this topic Nanami looks at Sigmund with a serious expression "Nori is my best friend. I don't like seeing her sad. Though you have made it obvious that you have no interest in her. Part of me thinks you actually do, you are just afraid it will complicate things. So do one of two things not only for yourself, but for the sake of our team. Talk to her and let her confess her feelings. Then tell her as a person, as a friend. Tell her sincerely that you have no interest, or actually open up and tell her you share her feelings. You don't have to say anything on this topic. This topic is truly up to you to handle. I will help her with any fallout, if needed." She rests her head on her knee.

   He had remained quiet, allowing Nanami to have his full attention. He didn't directly look at her but rather his feet that he kept dangling off the roof, swinging his feet. Everything she had told him stayed inside his head. He listened intently as a friend would. She gave her feelings and thoughts about all that had been said earlier, Nori even came up, and her apology. Her apology is what made him realize the most that she never meant to hurt him. He knew that much because being shot by a chakra infused arrow by your own teammate was never intentional. When she finished, he remained quiet for a few moments before he gathered the appropriate words to respond to her. "I won't openly admit it, but I was hurt and angry this past year at the both of you," he began then he actually looked at her with those deep blue eyes. "I was alone in the worst recovery I have ever endured. I resented the both of you, but I knew why you girls left. It had to be done because I pushed you both to be better and that's exactly what you did: you went after what was right," he explained. Although it wasn't direct, but he did forgive her.

   "I cannot forgive what Kotatsu did to me. It wasn't a fair fight to begin with even though I believed I could take him on. He was a coward for what he did. All that destruction because of me..." he uttered before he sighed. "I know the mission must come first and it will be my priority to get it done, but I cannot promise I will hold myself back if he is there. I have a score to settle. This is not getting revenge for that attack or avenging our sensei's death. This is me getting that fight I didn't get to have fairly for the exams. This is a pride thing and if it marks me as a missing shinobi, so be it. That is the risk I am willing to take. I'd rather know I died trying to stop this man from causing more destruction as oppose to allowing him flee and cause havoc somewhere else," he paused for a moment as he tried to figure out what he could say on the topic of their other teammate. He couldn't find the words though.

   "I have been avoiding that for a very long time and I will continue to avoid the subject of Nori. I don't know how I feel about her. I need to figure myself out before I can figure out what I feel for someone else, if there is anything to feel about her at all. As her best friend, Nanami, just keep her at bay for the meantime. Keep her focused. Don't let her feelings cloud her duties. That is what I ask of you. Not as your leader, but as your friend," he stated. It was a complicated situation with Nori and with their past, it only complicated it more. Nori allowed it to get in the way sometimes whereas Sigmund didn't. It was a brick wall to him; a bridge he temporary burned. He needed to stay focused.

Nanami sat there and a smile formed "The world for us will change, for everyone it will change. I don't know of your and Nori's past. I will do as you ask, because you asked as a friend. Nori is important to me, as I know in some form she is to you. You will both survive. I'll see to that, and understand one thing. Regardless of your pride, if that fight happens. And there is even the slightest chance of you dying. You know my laws as a medical nin. I won't allow you to fall. Even if you hate me afterwards. I won't see someone who is important to me die again. Ever.." The Sharingan was glowing brightly in the daze of the light falling to dusk.

The young woman gathers herself "Now as far as our mission goes. I have some ideas about our stealth. Though it is based on that they will not have any Genjutsu specialists. But as long as they can't pierce my illusion, I can keep us stealthed until we decide to take action. If there is any action to be had. Also if I am forced to fight up close, which I will avoid at all costs. I do have a few trump cards. I promise if this happens my soul purpose will to fall back until you or Nori are able to intercept. Since we don't now each others training, we all may surprise one another."

   "I know," he muttered, were the only words he could manage to reply with. There was no use in convincing Nanami that he would face Kotatsu alone. For that, he was grateful but he too didn't wish to see either of them hurt. Never in his life did he manage he would be apart of a war. He believed something like that was over and everyone would be at peace. It had been 16 years since anything catastrophic had happened. The only thing that dawned on him was how did his own birth happened. He had many questions about his father and this unknown mother of his. He had his own journey to unfold later on in life.

   "If he is there, I can be sure he would see right through something like that. He seemed to be proficient in whatever new chakra nature that he wields. That would be the only flaw in your stealth plan. I'm fine taking a stealth approach. We don't know what is out there, how armed it is, or how many men are there. We need to observe and stay hidden as much as possible to get to know the areas in a timely manner. Once we take care of that, we need to stop these beams," he explained. The scroll had explained that these Strange beams of darkness were connected to the Land of Snow's disappeareance. He knew that's where all the operations had to be taking place at; the mysterious man and whatever hide out he may have there.