The Brothers' War

A Certain Non-Magical Index

Page 30, post 749

Their trip to Shirotsume was an interesting one. Indra choose to let Tailong rest back at the guild, while he and Kage decided to take on the retrieval mission. The two flew there via Kage's Aera magic, which INdra was very surprised to know Exceed cats could grow wings as part of a racial trait. He never seen such things before. Still, he was happy he didn't always need to depend on Tailong to fly them from place to place, especially when his mouth became more annoying.

As they reached Shirotsume, Indra landed with a soft drop while Kage soon made his ash-grey wings disappear. The cat landed in a 'ninja crouch' on the ground and tucked up his tiny ninja scarf around him as the cool air nipped at his whiskers and cheeks. "Brrr... its cold here. How do you stand it dressed like that? " he meowed.

Indra looked over his present attire of his usual gi and golden boots. He had a red cloth and sash around his waist. Furthermore, he had nothing covering his chest-- partly to show off his muscles for the ladies but also easier for him to move in. THe only thing he wore above the waist was a golden necklace he had around his neck that rested just at his chest. He shrugged and cast aside the thought. "Meh, you get used to it. Part of training too-- to adapt to the enviorment no matter what. After meditating under freezing waterfalls, a small late winter chill is nothing unless we find snow." he explained.

Kage's whiskers twitched in awareness to his friend and teacher's words. "Oh, well then... I won't be bothered by the cold either. If you can take it, so can I." he said chipper, trying to bury his earlier statement.

Indra snickered and ran a hand through his black hair. "Come on, Kage. Let's get to the client and get this job started. " he said and urged the Exceed to follow.

The client's house was pretty big and fancy. The building was a seemingly marble building but upon entering, there was a few mercinary guards and servants--- a good majority of women as he approached. As they entered, one of the servants led them up the stairs to another chamber. Inside was a well decorated room with several portraits of people, some of older relatives and probably one of the client himself. It was a kind of parlor with bookshelves all around, reliefs on the room pillars, a mural on the ceiling and comfy red velvet armchairs. At the end of the room was a fireplace that crackled nearby. Whoever the client was, he seemed loaded.

Happy to be in such a warm place, Kage hopped into one of the chairs and sat down. An unconscious purr escaped him as he felt content. Indra rolled his eyes pleasantly, wondering if Kage was more cat than tiger-- since tigers never purred. Then again, Exceeds seemed to be the exception to those rules.

Just as he was about to get a stiff drink from the small wet bar there-- he heard footsteps approach the door. The doors soon opened and he looked to find the client. The client appeared as a tall man in a brown-colored suit with blonde hair, mustashe and leather shoes. His feet licked on the wood floor as he made his way inside, upright as if he was a man of overly glorified glitz. Though Indra never cared for the 'stinken rich' types, a job was a job and he gave him his full respect... for now anyway.

"Are you the mages from Sabertooth I requested?" he asked in a snobbish tone.

"Yes, we are," Indra said in an indifferent tone. The client was about to speak up till he glanced in Kage's direction...

"THIEF!!" he shouted.

"Mrur?!" Kage sat up in attention, confused why was he singled out. "ME?! No-no-no! I haven't stolen anything from you-- I mean yes I did steal, but not since I joined Sabertooth. What I mean is--"

Indra glanced crossly. "Kage!"

"I didn't do anything!"

After a moment, the client was able to tell he made a mistake-- but soon got upset over another matter. "A cat?! GET OFF MY CHAIR YOU HAIRBALL!"

Indra groaned to himself, already feeling this job was going to be a pain in his ass.

WC: 732

Hex looked like a 'cat that ate the canary' as the client didn't care to see cat hair on his felt chairs. After Indra kept Kage closer and after assuring that he didn't steal anything-- the client calmed down to explain. "I'm sorry. As circumstances would have it, ninjas are indeed my problem. Perhaps it is a blessing in disguise that you are involved. You see, a few nights ago my villa was invaded by shadowy figures and they stole something from me."

Indra raised a brow. "Just 'something?" " Indra asked with knowing intent. "You're entire home is filled with valuables yet the thieves took one thing?"

"That's exactly right," he emphasized. "The burglers were all masked men, and all extremely agile. I only caught them as they retreat. They took one of my books-- which contains great personal information to me. A compendium really, but one that must be returned ASAP. But these men took that specifically, and with great skill. " he explained in detail and glared angrily. "All of them appeared to be of... your advocation?"

Indra glanced at Kage and the Exceed did the same. "Ninjas? Really?" Indra asked. Kage, however, appeared more giddy at the idea. "And you want me to kill them."

"I don't care what you do. Kill them, fine, mane them fine-- but I must have that book back," the rich man shouted, his veins of his forehead showing a bit. "Bring me their masks of the leaders as proof and I will reward you with a bonus. I trust you will not dissapoint. And one thing-- do not, under any circumstance OPEN that book. That is my property and its content is private. Understood?"

Indra just nodded and that was all the client needed.

"Then go. My bodyguards can provide you with any details of their wereabouts. But please, return that book to me. "

WC: 316

The parting from the mansion was less than courdual as one of the bodyguards gave them a small account of the night of the break in, the rumors that had floated around and the surrounding area. Whoever the thieves were, they were good. They left no trace or clue for Indra to sniff them out or to track them. SO they were left with one avenue-- to check out the direction they fled in and the rumor of the newly built settlement to the west of the town. Indra grumbled as they walked out of town towards the direction given.

Kage looked to his master in concern. "You mad about something?" he asked, though his tone more chipper than normal.

"Just more often than not, I hate going in blind into a mission. A lack of a location or clues isn't how I like to hunt an enemy." Indra said as he crossed his arms against his bare chest. "And the fact our adversaries are stealthy, they clearly have skills to not wanting to be found."

Kage's whiskers twitched as he hopped along the road alongside Indra. "Well, I'm sure we can figure it out. I can't wait to find these guys! Twa-cha!" he said with a little chop of his paws.

Indra shook his head. "You seem happy about this mission." he stated matter-of-factly.

"Ninjas, Raijin-Sensei!" Kage meowed happily as he hopped a few steps ahead and made little Midian hand signs with his little scarf covering his maw. "Stealth, deadly excitement-- shadows! Time to show em what this ninja is made of. Nin-nin!" he said.

Indra kept a tight lip as he saw his giddy Exceed partner get all excited to face off against ninjas. He would remind Kage how deadly real shinobi could be, but this was what Kage loved. He wanted to train with him so he could become a ninja , or some form of Midian warrior. In truth, Indra's techniques were akin to ninjas-- but lightning was never what he considered 'stealth'.

"Remember Kage, keep your mind open and alert. Don't get so excited your focus suffers. Clear?"

Kage hopped around and faced him with a bow. "You got it, Sensei!"

Indra smiled as they proceeded to the settlement. The 'town' was a small little collection of buildings, what looked more like storage sheds. It seemed more like a shanty-town with a collection of buildings clustered together. It was unusual , including a small temple-like structure here.

"Reminds me of Hosenka," Indra said as they walked into the town.

Kage looked around the town, curious. "This definately look like fun for a ninja showdown. Nin-nin! " he chirped.

"Please, stop that." Indra said curtly, which made Kage frown and lower his paws.

However, they soon felt the chill of uncertainty down their backs as they stepped further in. Indra realized how quiet it was-- and soon it became clear to them both. "Um, Sensei? Does something seem off to you about this place?"

Indra didn't even respond as he too grasped the unusual detail of this town. It was quiet, still and unmoving. His eyes narrowed and his senses began to expand to try to smell or hear anything.

There was no one in the town. It was as still as the dead, even in the middle of the day.


WC: 577

Roll for fights-- 3 rolls .

The member 'Zabertooth' has done the following action : Dice Rolls

---

'Monster Dice' :

(Engaging Crimson and Gold Ninja so far)

Little Kage's fur was on end as they slowly approached into the town. There was only one street and while Indra walked, his sensitive ears didn't even hear any stirring or living movement in the house. The sheer stillness was starting to get on his nerves. "You sense it too, cat?" Indra said in mild warning.

"You mean that sudden bloodlust-suspense that makes people lose their nerves right before ninja attack from the rafters? Yeah-- pretty much," the Exceed commented.

INdra rolled his eyes. "Trust me, if i wanted scared sarcasm I would have taken Tailong with us. Focus..." he warned as they approached.

They soon made it halfway down the street with the buildings on both sides-- till he stopped. There was a subtle sound. A rustle-- just barely audible even for his hearing. People who knew how to stay hidden and quiet. Even the air was a sublte hint of scent that was undetectable. However, the sound till he heard it. THe feint whisper of a thought that reached his hearing.

Attack the intruders.

"Look out!" Indra shouted and grabbed Kage in his arm. It was then that red blurs jumped out of the windows-- followed by the blur of numerous thrown projectiles. It all happened in a flash.

And in the flash-- Indra was gone with the same strike of lightning. The moment he grabbed Kage he teleported in a bolt of lightning and carried the cat to a small alleyway between the two buildings just thin enough for the two of them. As Indra reappeared with Kage, the two looked to see the damage. A barrage of shuriken were now among the spot where they were, looking as if the dust ground was turned into a pin-cushion.

"I think that was one of my nine lives..." Kage meowed softly in surprise.

IT was then the ninjas in red landed on the street and saw them. Slowly, Indra rose up. "Take a minute, kage. I'll get this party started..." INdra said as he slowly approached the assassins. "I'll make this simple. Return the tome you stole from my client... and only some of you will die. "

There was no words exchanged as the ninjas just drew their swords. Indra just blew out some air in distaste. If they were going to fight, he might as well play along. Without any gesture, lightning erupted around his body-- his Raijuu Spell. With a simple kick off the ground, he proceeded right into the thick of the first bunch, striking the first group with lightning kicks and blows. THough not lethal, it was enough to easily wound and cripple them. He struck three in the midsts of five seconds, and easily began to move to the others.

However, there were far more of them above, among the roofs of the building, and more on the way...

WC: 477

Among the red-clothed ninja were those with a more regal design of attire-- black with golden designs, a possible sign of rank as Indra smashed the lower red ninja below. He blitz from one foe--- dashed to the next, then the next...

However, those above would be aware of him as the black ones aimed something else. Kunai knives, aimed to strike in the back. Even with his Lightning Dragon Cloak-- the raw lightning that radiated off of him, wouldn't protect him from projectiles like that. However, he heard as the knives flew through the air.

Using the sound and his lightning speed, he side-stepped the majority of the kunais-- one just grazing his hair. He wanted to roar out and fry the others-- but he had his hands full already with 6 remaining ninjas around him. The best he did at the moment was keep aware and avoid it via his speed.

From the alley where he had been last, Kage saw as Indra proceeded to tear the hell out of the ninjas, using a lightning fast punch to send one ninja flying across the street. Though smaller now, he knew he had to get in on the action. He gave it some thought for a second, but soon had an idea with the ninjas up above. With a small bit of focus, he caused his Aera wings to appear. The little Exceed then hopped up and took flight up the ally to reach the rooftop. As he flew up-- he spotted the ninjas preparing another volley of kunai.

With a cat-like grin on his face, Kage struck. With a growl, he flew by and snatched each kunai out of the prepared ninja's hands-- including the gold ones. By the time they realized someone snatched the Kunai from their hands, they turned to see the black Exceed fly by with a grin. "Take this! MROW!" Kage shouted and threw the Kunai at them-- striking the red ones and one of the golden/black ones with his own flying momentum.

As the lesser ninja fell, the golden ones were now turning their attention to the winged tiger-cat they missed.

Indra saw Kage's little ploy and smiled. "Nice Kage!" Indra said more to himself as he jumped up and delivered a swirling kick to knock one of the ninja in the head.

Now aggrivated by Kage, the black and gold ninja glared to the cat as he landed on the ground with a drop of his wings. "Alright, fellahs. Show me how real shinobi fight," He said and made a hand sign with his paws. There was a sudden puff of smoke around him-- and he soon transformed into his larger, more intimidating form. Now adorn with a more clearer design of his ninja garb, Kage smiled wickedly at the ninja as he flexed his now 'visible' claws. "Let's dance, ladies..." He said in a darker tone, egging them on.

THe first of the black shinobi rushed for him, a short katana at the ready. He aimed to slash Kage right down the middle until--

-- his blade slip right through him as if he was just a shadow or an illusion. If he didn't have his mask, one would imagine how dumbfounded he would appear. The moment he passed through Kage completely-- the Tiger reached out at the exact moment and struck with his paw to the back of his neck, causing the ninja to tumble down the rooftop.

THe tiger looked to the other 4 and gestured a 'come on' hand at them to chase him.

WC: 597

Between the fighting and the movement, Indra looked to spy Kage holding his own against some of the more elite ninja among the gang. He grinned, knowing how badly Kage wished to grow stronger and in ways he had. He owed the cat a present when he had chance. For now, they both were enjoying the fight with the other ninja.

He now thinned out the enemy red ninja to 3-- and one of the black and gold ones joining the fray. It was then they drew out swords of their own intending to slice at Indra. With lightning still crackling all over his body, he smirked as he realized he now had to up his game a little. Up above, the storm clouds began to brew and the sky darkened more with INdra's lightning-- beckoning the coming storm.

Indra soon reached out a hand and focused his magic into it. WIth a grip-- he extended a katana made out of pure, flickering lightning. As the ninja charged, he was able to parry with his own blade. With swift spins and slashes, he struck down his sword to each ninja-- and soon was left with the black one as he slashed through the remaining reds, having struck with fast movements. The black one moved with more hesitation-- clearly smarter than the runts of the group. THough not a swordsman, Indra had been trained to use their arts well enough to handle the lightning dragon's fang.

It was then Indra smirked as he thrust his sword forward--- and the blade extended. Taken off guard, the ninja wasn't fast enough as the sword crossed the distance easily and gutted him in the stomach. Once he was skewered-- the lightning sword quickly faded from his grip, its job done as he now saw the ninja crumble.

With his share done for the moment, Indra looked up to see his fuzzy companion fleeing from the enemy ninja.

THough never leaving hte rooftop, Kage easily slipped through the 3 black and gold ninja, aimed to strike him with a variety of chained weapons and swords. He easily dodged some and those that he couldn't he phased through it. Still, that technique was hard to maintain for long periods of time.

"Kage, get clear!" Indra shouted to his companion. Kage heard it as he phased one more, this time slipping right through the roof and back into the building. As his head dipped below like a ghost-- the ninjas were wide open and stunned by his disappearing act.

"Lightning Dragon..." Indra breathed, inhaling a good amount of energy and focused it out. "... ROAR!!" Lightning erupted from his mouth as he aimed for the rooftop. The blast struck the nearest ninja, instantly frying him with its powerful blast-- whiel the resulting explosion left a cloud of dust in its wake. Indra quickly jumped upward towards it, to try and spy where his enemies had ran off to.

THe smoke was thick, but he glared into it unafraid as he tried to sense it. It was in that moment his eyes began to glow yellow with a lightning bolt like shape in his irises. He didn't see it-- no one else would , til he caught a glimpse of their movement in the smoke. He spotted them charge at him from 9 o clock.

He let out another roar-- this time directed right towards them both. The two bolts of lightning hit their targets, causing them to crumble to the ground in charred corpses along in their black costumes and masks.

ONce the lightning and fighting faded, the smoke drifting away, Kage soon reappeared through the roof. The now antrho-sized Exceed rose up like a ghost and stood on the roof next to his master. "Wow sensei, you're a bad-ass." he commented with a growl, seeing the damage he caused.

Indra looked around but signed. "Duely noted, but despite this being the place-- none of them seemed to have the book we need." Indra commented.

Kage wrinkled his whiskers as he knelt down to look over the small settlement from their perch on the roof. "If this is their hideout, they probably got a stash of goods somewhere. Let's check out the town. We may find it here... " the tiger Exceed suggested.

"And Probably more shinobi..." Indra commented as they made their way back down the building.

***

As they ventured off, in the shadows among the buildings, others spied on them. "Look there. Seems those two are pretty strong," a voice said with amusement.

"Maybe so, but something is vexing me about the taller one-- the man with the lightning." another said, his voice deeper in the dark.

"Hmm, well what about the mission? Are they a problem?"

"Not just yet... we will see. Besides, something is oddly familiar with the man."

"And what about the chimney sweep of an Exceed? Talk about a newb."

"I detect jealousy."

"PLease, I could kill both of them with my paws tied behind my back. "

"Heh... careful what you wish for Kiri. You just might get your wish."

WC: 852

A bolt of lightning fell from the darkened sky towards Indra-- which he took like a tank. However, the sound of gulping and bodily sounds could be heard as he swallowed the lightning bolt. Though he still had plenty of magic energy, it was better safe than sorry to replenish his magic power. He took in the lightning and felt it recharge him but just slowly. Kage kept his distance as he sat on a nearby barrel, in his more grown form.

"I will never get how you can eat lightning like that," Kage said as his fur slowly smoothed out from the mild boom of thunder.

Indra wiped his mouth with his arm, and sighed in a refreshed tone. "Takes pratice," Indra commented, reminded how it took him near-death experiences to catch Koryu's lightning and convert it into himself.

After the thunder cleared, Indra listened around. He couldn't smell or detect any sounds from the ajoint buildings that made the majority of the town. Perhaps the town was a front for whatever operation was going on. Still, he didn't understand how it related to the stolen book or the rich bastard. Either way, a job was a job.

However, he could hear faint sounds from the distance-- in the direction of the largest tower-like building at the end of the settlement. Even his nose could detect better smells of people than from before. "This way," Indra said simply, urging his companion to follow.

Without any hesitation, Kage hopped onto his feet and followed happily.

The approached the towering temple-like building. Though seemingly quiet, Indra knew by now never to judge by appearances. Cautiously and quietly, the two approached the double doors of the building. With glances at eachother in silent gesture, the two slowly opened the doors to check inside.

The doors creaked and only darkness shown inside for the moment...

WC: 313

(First boss roll will be honored at the end)

ROll another 3 for enemies.

The member 'Zabertooth' has done the following action : Dice Rolls

---

'Monster Dice' :

The inside of the odd tower was dark, windowless and empty. Pitch black with small slits that light did pour in. IT was so dark, Indra couldn't see the borders of the room itself-- just the endless black. He wished to use his eyes-- but he didn't get master control over it. It seemed to kick in during moments when his adrenaline was pumping. He couldn't hear anything just yet but he cautiously entered into the room with kage just behind him.

"Um... maybe I am paranoid, " Kage whispered softly as he followed behind Indra, "But going into a big exitless room seems like a good way to make a..."

IT was then the lights went out-- as the doors slammed shut behind them.

"... A trap," Indra finished.

Bits of light soon filled the room-- from blinders that were lifted just enough to let in sunlight-- and when it did, the room revealed its secrets. The light soon revealed a few DOZEN white ninja, among with a few of their black and gold ninja friends. THe numbers were stupid as they were now surrounded-- when they had been gone just moments ago.

Indra grumbled-- feeling as if he was losing his edge. "This is embarrassing..." the man grumbled.

"Kill them." One of the ninja shouted and the mass of white ninjas moved in. Indra was quick as he teleported upward in a flash of Lightning. Kage, thinking the best way to escape immediately used Aera magic to give him and wings. He kicked off and left a mass of ninjas below him.

WC: 265

As the two were airborne, Indra growled with annoyance as he saw a mass of ninjas move towards them. He growled as he disliked how things were starting to progress as they would soon be surrounded by all sides including above. "Kage, get clear. You take the east-- I'll cover the west. " he said.

"Aye, Sensei!" Kage said as he flew off to fight some of the other ninjas.

While Indra was airborne, he glared at the enemies in front of him. They all charged, quite amateurishly to strike him down. it was then he grasped they had more quantity than quality-- and he grin with confidence. With a raised arm, lightning magic crackled from his limb. "Lightning Dragon-- THUNDERCLAP!! "

He threw down the arm and released a wave of lightning that swept across his line of sight. The mass wave of lightning magic struck the ninjas, electrocuting over a half-dozen of the ninjas and threw them into a paralyzed state.

Meanwhile, Kage handled them the only way he could. Hand to hand, or rather tiger claw-to hand combat as the Exceed used martial arts against each ninja. With flaps of his wings, he easily maneuivered among the enemies and struck with well placed kicks, punches and slashes of his claws. One at a time, the Exceed fended for himself. Still over 40 ninjas were there, among with some of their elite-- only being a matter of time for one or the other to be overrunned.

WC: 260

Though strong as Indra and Kage where-- the ninja well outnumbered them. One of them soon got behind Indra as he soared upward, poised with Kunain to strike at the back of Indra's neck. Though in a free-fall, Indra released his Raijuu cloak again and shocked him as he came into contact. The number was too large for them alone as even with his lightning-armor, they would overrun them without any room to counter-attack. Kage also had a tough time as many of the white ninja tried to get the jump on him. In his transformed state, however, Kage was well more than capable of fighting them off as he struck with his martial arts move-- and use his cat-like agility to hop, bounce and slip out of the enemy grips.

"HAha!! COme get me, ya newb ninja-fan wannabees. I'll beat you senseless and make you my--"

POOF!

In the middle of the fight, Kage's body erupted in smoke-- and soon was replaced by the little cat's smaller state. He soon noticed the change himself and felt his face freeze in embarrassment and dread. "Uh-oh.... my transformation wore off..."

Indra groaned as he slapped his palm against his forehead in embarrassment. By now, the entire hoard of ninja saw the little Exceed now vulnerable and moved in to try and attack him. However, Kage always knew when to save his own fur as they all charged to grab him. THe little cat extended his wings again and flew upward among the rafters. The resulting ninja all crashed into one another, hitting nothing but themselves in the clash.

As Kage flew back towards Indra, the dragon slayer landed among one of the rafters that criss-crossed all the way through the towering structure. The little cat reached him and looked down at the surrounding forces. "There are too many. What do we do?" the cat squeaked a little bit.

Indra, however, growled and his gaze narrowed on the enemies. "Kage, get behind me and do not move. Understood?" he warned. He soon saw as the ninja from earlier, the one he struck with his Thunderclap spell, begin to recover.

It was at that moment, the high adrenaline-- his eyes flashed to reveal the lightning-shape iris and yellow glow of his eyes. He could soon see them all-- represented by the bio-electricity each one possessed. As he focused on them, he soon began to weave hand signs, which was a Midian art of spellcasting. Bird... Ox... Dragon... Snake... He ended it with the hands clasped tightly as an electric charge buzzed between his palms. "Lightning Dragon-- BALL LIGHTNING!!"

With a grasp of his hands, he extended it and tossed out a series of sparks that flurried into the air. The simple sparks grew and multiplied with each bit in the air. They soon became several dozen lightning balls that surged with electric magic. With a final hand sign of Indra, the balls went flying in multiple directions, aimed for the ninja below.

The balls slammed into several of the ninjas instantly, shocking them with deadly force. However, while many of the ninjas scattered in an attempt to evade-- many couldn't as the ball lightning darted in another direction and chased them. That was one of Indra's more powerful spells-- a multi-target guided attack that tracked down enemies following their bio-electricity. Almost impossible to dodge if it chased after them. Indra watched with a small bit of sadistic glee as both the stronger golden ninja and the rest of the white ninja were struck down by the deadly lightning.

The impacts caused explosions throughout the tower, pouring in more light from the outside . As the blasts cleared, it showed several charred and dead ninja around them. A sigh escaped Kage as the exceed saw the results, the majority of the 'army' dismantled.

But still, their goal didn't appear to be in sight.

WC: 681

(Rolling for another encounter)

The member 'Zabertooth' has done the following action : Dice Rolls

---

'Monster Dice' :

(Forfeiting the previous roll to encounter 1 of the unkilled gold and the 'boss' from before)

As things quieted down, Indra took a breath as his cloak still charged around him for protection. Till they had found what they were after, he couldn't afford to drop his guard. "I'm sorry Master... I can't hold my battle form for too long in battle." Kage said as he hovered beside him.

"It's fine, Kage. I'm sure you will get more used to it," He said as he looked around. "Anyway, as much as I would like to get out of here-- we need that book and despite how strong a handful of them are here, I doubt we met their leader. If the thief was coordinated, they needed someone to call the shots. "

Kage wrinkled his whiskers in uncertainty as he had no clue where the leader could be.

There was an odd quiet for a time as the last of lightning sizzled-- then they heard a strange flap of wings.

"Well, well-- you morons seem to be proud of yourselves. I suppose I should give you some credit," a voice spoke from out of the darkness of the tower. "Finding ninja are not easy to find-- at least of our caliber, but then again, if they are not strong, they are not worth the effort. "

Indra growled and sniffed the air. He turned in the direction of the voice-- easily detecting the source despite the echo. "SHow yourself, scardy cat," Indra spat out, "Hiding is pointless at this point. " His enhanced eyes soon looked through the darkness, able to see his new enemy's silhouette--

-- who appeared to be quite small.

"Heh, that's rude... especially with your friend there..." the figure stepped along the rafters in small steps, revealing he was of small stature... and odd feline features.

Kage gasped as the person appeared-- and even Indra had to narrow his eyes in surprise and alarm.

The voice belonged to a small cat-creature, not unlike Kage in the least. He appeared very much like him, from the size of his smaller form to the ninja garb. The biggest difference was his fur-- unlike Kage which was black and ash grey, this one was a lavender and deep indigo color in his fur. A rather odd color scheme. His eyes were a shade of blue and gleamed with deadly intent.

"Whoh! No way! He's an Exceed like me!" Kage meowed, surprised.

"Pfft. What an insult, comparing me to you. True, those idiots down there couldn't put up a real fight... still, you are in no way close to my league. " the cat said, with a flick of his tail.

"SAY-WHAT?!" Kage growled, annoyed.

It was then that the enemy Exceed back glowed and wings of his own appeared. The cat hovered a bit overhead of them. "I believe your words were... 'ninja-fan wannabees'. Or something like that. That seems to speak well on you. "

While Kage was about ready to fly off and scratch the cat-- Indra took hold of his partner's tail to stop him. "I take it you're the one giving them orders. If so-- make it easy on yourself furball and hand over the book you stole."

The oddly colored Exceed grinned in a cat-like manner. "Heh... you think you can threaten me? Please... You may have some skills, but no way you can best us. " he replied.

Indra's brow narrowed. "'Us?'" he asked.

It was then a subtle blow of air began to churn in the tower. At first, Indra thought it was the air outside from the resulting storm. However, it seemed to churn and swirl from INSIDE the building. The scent of the wind felt different, like a malice or bloodlust that lingered on it! His eyes widened as he sensed the source and looked down. From the floor-- he couldn't see whom, as a sudden gush of wind howled, black as night.

It tore throught he tower and engulfed Indra and Kage in its flow. The two shouted as the wind pushed against them-- and in a matter of seconds lifted them up into the air itself. Their cries were drowned out by the wind as the cyclone blew all through the tower, and soon to the ceiling.

WC: 794

(Rolling for more boss fight mechanic only. If more are drawn, the more damage the boss needs to defeat.)

The member 'Zabertooth' has done the following action : Dice Rolls

---

'Monster Dice' :

The tower soon erupted-- and the roof of the large oriental building was blown off by a funnel of black wind-- as if the already existing storm had released a mass of its clouds from below. The black wind blew Indra and Kage up with its flow right out of the building, causing the two to land with a thud on the tiling of the roof. The wind had left scratches and the blow knocked the wind out of Indra as he fought to rise up. Though not seriously hurt, that one was far stronger than any the lackies up till now.

Indra slowly knelt up as he turned to the hole he had been blown out of, and Kage slowly growled as he began to push himself up with all four of his paws. Indra soon sensed his enemy-- not just by scent but by the sound of the air. He could sense the existence of another-- not just the other Exceed.

He turned to soon find a figure float up out of the hole in the building. The wind churned, to actually levitate the stranger. The man was in an odd choice of black clothing of baggy pants and a thin black top, adorn with golden accessories. He had long, spiky black hair that ran well behind him. His arms were snugly crossed against his chest as he rose up like some sort of god. A wicked smile was on his face as he rose up well above Indra and Kage.


Thunder and lightning echoed in the heavens as he hung there, looking down at them. He didn't say a word but just looked at them with ill content. Indra glared back, bothered by the man and his smug grin.

"I take it you are the one leading these clowns," Indra shouted up to him, not mincing words.

A chuckle escaped him. "Heh... true, they were... lesser ninja. Those not even of my clan. But I assure you, I am the real deal. I was wondering who was causing such a ruckus among our base, but little did I know it was YOU." He said with a sneer, "Brother."

"What?!" Indra growled, not understanding what he meant. "The hell are you talking about?!"

Kage shook his head as he finally recovered and now hovered via his wings. "Brother? Master, is he really your brother?"

"No... I mean, I was adopted by a monastery. I never knew who my real parents were, let alone a brother..." Indra growled but informed Kage all the same. "You're full of it!"

The stranger just glared back down at him. "No need to be so ill-tempered. After all, we both hailed from the same clan. Or is it-- those idiots of monks never told you. You are of the Tenzoku, right?"

Indra's eyes widened at the mention of his sirname. He had always assumed his name was given by the monks, but it made him wonder if he knew more.

"If you don't believe me, then why do you have a shuriken tattoo on your left arm." he stated. He soon turned his own arm-- showing a spiral shuriken design right in the same place.

Indra felt short of breath as he saw the mark-- and soon reached to his left out of instinct, feeling the same mark. The monks told him he had it when he was found, but never understood why it was there.

"That is proof-- proof we come from the same clan. Such a shame many of our kind were wiped out by the shogun's decree. Or... did those monks choose to not tell you that." the black haired shinobi spat in disguist. "Speaking of, your name is Indra now is it. How Ironic they gave you the nickname Raijin, after all-- a name given from our clan."

Indra's outrage slowly dimmered at the words of his so-called brother. "You seem to know alot about me. Can't say the same, but how the hell do you know me so well?"

The stranger grinned. "Any shinobi worthy of the name are pros to gather information. Either way, I heard of whispers of others of our clan scattered about. But to see you here is pure coincidence. Fate is quite ironic, isn't it?" he said.

It was then another figure emerged from the hole-- the same Exceed from before. With wings drawn, the violet colored cat flew beside the black-haired stranger in the air. "Come on. Why waste our breath on these losers. Let's waste them already," The Exceed said.

"Easy there, Bloody Mist," he said. They might be out of their league, but that doesn't mean they couldn't be worthy allies. If they are worthy to serve under us. "

Indra almost laughed. "Really? Very kind of you to want to recruit us after we trashed your subordinates. Trying to recruit your enemies after all this seems like a coward's move to me."

The black haired shinobi in the air just grinned and took out something from behind his back. He slowly rose it up to reveal a brown, leather book. There was no doubt-- it was the book they were sent to obtain. "This book contained information hidden in a rather amateurish code-- I already deciphered it. This is what you came for right, at the behest of that idiot duke? But tell you what, let me keep this, and I will tell you everything. That is what you want right? To know the truth of your past?"

Indra glared at the two strangers, perplexed by how things had developed into this. He let out a sigh as he gave it a moment thought, till he turned back to look at them. "Hate to disappoint you... but I am afiliated with another 'clan', and my dedication is to them. And since my mission is to get that book back, you can take that offer and shove it."

WC: 1075

The cocky expression on the shinobi turned into a frown as Indra told him to get lost. It was then that the little Exceed next to him levitated beside him with eager intent. "Come on, Fujin. Let's just waste them. We don't need these losers." Bloody Mist snickered.

Fujin, as he was called, eased his glare. "We will see about that. For now, I shall show them how to respect the legacy of the Tenzoku clan."

Both Indra and Kage got ready to fight as the black wind of the enemy began to billow around him. "Brace yourself!" Indra shouted, warning Kage.

Fujin's eyes widened as he inhaled. "Sky God... BELLOW!!!!" he roared and released a spiraling blast of black wind from his own mouth-- not unlike Indra's own roar.

Alarmed, Indra acted on instinct as he didn't anticipate such an attack. He gritted his teeth and clapped his hands together. "Lightning Dragon-- CHARGED RAMPART!!"

WIth a slam to the ground, he erected a massive wall of two pillars-- a mass of electricity between them that met with the tornado of black wind. The impact was great as it struck the wall hard, making the surroundings blow away and rock from the force of it. Kage cringed from the clash, as the roar pressed against the shield.

Just as the wind seemed to die down-- they were distracted by movement above as jumping right over the wall came the stranger. "Master-- Look out!!"

"Sky God-- Storm-Breaker!" Black wind flew from his hands in a series of crescent blades, and soared right for them. In a quick dodge, the two separated-- to get clear from the multi-target attack. Kage quickly flew free from the attack, getting airborne to avoid the mass of them, but Indra was forced to run as the crescent blades chased him similar to boomerangs.

"Sensei!" Kage shouted-- and soon moved to fly towards his aid.

However, his airpath was blocked as the other Exceed appeared in front of him. "Sorry, buddy. You're not going anywhere." the violet Exceed purred with flicks of his tail. Kage growled angrily, now faced with the enemy Exceed.

Indra dashed in zig-zagged formations as the air blades exploded behind him. As he escaped the last one, the blast did in fact knock him off his feet, causing him to skid to the end of the building. He quickly grabbed hold of the roof just as his body would of went over! He now hanged from the edge, having just escaped harm. He was about to pull himself up when he felt a crushing pain on his fingers.

He glared up to find the black haired stranger-- his brother-- above him with a foot on his hand. "I gotta say, I did want to have a fight between us. See which one is stronger, though these circumstances are such a disappointment. With your powers and mine, this entire country could be ours. " he boasted, putting a bit of pressure on his hand.

Indra grimaced against the pain, fighting to hang on to the ledge. "Wh-where did you learn magic like that?" he grunted.

Fujin snickered. "A treasure of our clan, it seemes. Magic that far trumps yours. I suggest you submit, or you face the wrath of the heavens, brother..."

Indra snarled, furious as he began to swing his legs back. "That's an impressive trick-- but don't you dare mock the power of the dragons!" he roared, It was then he let out a roar of his own-- lightning erupting from his maw right almost point blank from Raijin. The man had gotten too close and was hit by the massive lightniing burst.

... Or so it should have been as he moved away just in time-- the movement as swift as the wind.

The moment he was off his fingers, he swung and flipped back up. Indra soon looked to find Fujin hovering in the air-- now clear he was using his form of wind magic to fly. "Wind Magic? I seen children more threatening with it than you." Indra mocked.

"Let's put that statement to the test? Lightning or Wind-- who shall prevale!!"

WC: 749

As Indra, aka Raijin fought-- Kage was face to face with his slightly different colored, carbon copy. Kage glared at Bloody Mist, furious. "Get out of my way, or I'll smack you so hard your nine lives are gonna feel it."

Bloody Mist snickered and shrugged as he hovered there on his dark-colored wings. It's a shame. Its actually nice to find an Exceed with the same interests as me-- The difference is I am a true shinobi and you... are nothing but a sad pretender. " he said. "You might as well fly off and go back to training-- cause it looks like your poor excuse for a sensei is nothing but a joke compared to Fujin-sama."

This time Kage grew a dangerous look in his eye. "You can mock me all you want, pal. But don't you DARE mock Indra-Sensei, or I swear I'll make you suffer for it."

The violet colored cat gave a wicked grin not unlike his master. "Really? Then show me what you got-- you third-rate ninja wannabe..." He sneered.

"That's IT!" Kage roared-- and focused a hand sign. Another poof of smoke appeared, showing Kage back into his stronger, fighter form. "Let's Rumble!"

Despite the transformation, Bloody Mist let out a chuckle. "Your funeral, pussycat." It was that instant, Bloody Mist's body glowed too! In place of the smaller violet cat-- it grew into a combat form of his own. The same shinobi styled outfit was on him along with a similar scarf-- but his fur a more defined color of violet and indigo. His blue eyes glared back with a killer instinct, showing more skill and depth to his fighting abilities. "Time to meet your maker!"



The two tigers soon clashed-- as the two struck with claws and blows-- but both using passing glances via their ability to fly in an almost passing pattern. Neither one made contact for long, trying to land a lasting blow on the other. Kage swung with one of his claws, trying to swipe at Bloody Mist's head, but the cat merely flew upward, staying at a hair's length from the attack. In retaliation, Bloody Mist swept back around-- and kicked Kage when his back was turned, causing the cat to fall a small distance in the air.

After a second to recover, Kage shook his head and glanced up, finding the tiger ninja hovering above him. "You're out of your depth. And so is your sensei. We are TRUE ninja."

Kage growled furiously, intending to strike back the first chance he could.

WC: 480

Lightning struck down from the heavens and right upon Indra-- who used the sudden recharge from the storm above to recharge him! He let the lightning flow into his body and down his gullet-- eating its energy. He needed that after the long fight with this guy's minions. But he now had some bit of a recharge.

Fujin raised a brow in interest, seeing how Indra ate a single bolt of lightning like that. "Impressive... you must be a hit at parties," he commented.

"Shut up," Indra replied as he flexed a hand into a grasping motion-- and lightning sparked wildly from his hand. The lightning seemed to flicker to show a "Lightning Dragon's Claw". "I'll show you what real 'shock and awe' is, you windbag..."

The stranger said nothing but beckoned him to attack with a save of his hand.

Indra took the mock head on as he let out an animalistic roar and threw his arm back. THe Lightning in his grip exploded with a massive discharge that literally tore the roof below him apart. He charged forward, the surface below him scarred by the lightning he carried. Both with devastating force and speed from the lightning-- he charged right for Fujin with the intent to skewer him with his claws.

"Sky God... Storm Armor!"

The lightning powered claw struck and aimed right for the man, but was soon masked by a swirling silhouette of black wind. The power of the wind pushed right against Indra's jab, even stopping the lightning blast as the wind took the hit.

"Heh, that tickled a little..." a voice echoed from inside the armor.

Despite the cockiness--t he armor was quickly dispelled but not before he used a bit of the wind to move it towards his leg and delivered a fierce kick against Indra's face. The big fighter was knocked off his feet and sent flying. Though in mid air-- he flipped back upright and used what was left of his Lightning Dragon Claw to keep from tumbling further down the roof.

Indra glared at him-- seeing the black wind that swirled around him. It was as if he could wind around his attacks and counter in a single move. As much as he hated to admit it, wind magic was one of the most versatile arts of Midi-- and capable of doing real harm if used right. This guy clearly was a natural of its arts. He rose back up to his feet and wiped his jaw with the back of his hand, wiping some blood away.

Do I really need to use THAT... he thought.

"Sigh... Killing you would be such a waste... but leaving you in traction for a few weeks may teach you a lesson in respecting your family," he said as he made a hand sign of two fingers crossing one another before him-- and the black wind began to gather and blow his long hair back. "They say what doesn't kill you only make you stronger. You will thank me for this."

Indra just glared-- through his anger seethed as hot as lightning, he focused on his next move. He waited for just the right moment.

A maddening look crossed Fujin's face as he showed a blood-lust, ready to kill. "Sky God-- Boreas!!" he roared-- and from his outreached arms, released a cyclone of black wind that encompassed most of the building!

The blast of wind blew off parts of the 'battlefield' and tossed tiles into the mountains ahead. Lightning and black wind flashed as there was a minor flash-- from the storm above they had both conjured.

The black cyclone soon passed, having carved out a piece of the building. Fujin didn't care, but soon panted with a satisfied breath-- not a trace of Indra in sight. "Huh... maybe I over did it a bit.. " he said, not really sounding too disappointed he might of destroyed his 'brother.'

Another flash of lightning came from above and---

WHAM!! A sudden shock struck Fujin in the face, followed by the boom and electric sensation of an electrocuted blow. This time he was reeling from the sudden blow, baffled as he looked to find Indra in mid-air, having delivered an electrified punch at him. His eyes were aglow with his lightning-eyes, which flickered with electricity in their pupils.

"You may be strong, but you can never be as fast as lightning." Indra spat as he landed.

In that flash of lightning, he had teleported using Flying Raijin just in time, to fake him out and slip out of the line of fire-- using the natural lighting to fool him.

Fujin slowly rose back up and tossed his hair back to see. "Well, you might be more shinobi than I thought. Using the lightning to mask your teleportation jutsu. I believe you call it Flying Raijin, am I right?" he said with a bit of a pained admittance. "Your reputation precedes you..."

Now with mild scratches on his body, Indra glared at him. "Compared to some moron I never met," he replied.

A light chuckle came from Fujin as he smirked wickedly back. "But you are not too bright. A true ninja lives in darkness-- as did our clan. TO have a reputation is contradictory-- but not that it will matter. You showed me a secret. Only fair I show you one of mine..."

It was in that moment, he took in a deep breath, but heard a suction sound. It took Indra a moment to see it, but he soon saw the flow of air and how it went into Fujin. The man was consuming the air, no differet than a Dragon SLayer! Indra felt suddenly alarmed.

"How..." he gasped.

After a few seconds, Fujin stopped. Not only did he look more alive, but the wounds Indra inflicted had lessened and healed up. "For a Lightning Dragon Slayer, you are not very smart. My magic is called God Slayer Magc-- can you guess what that means, you fool!?" His words ended with a sudden bellow-- and another blast of black wind to try and nail Indra where he stood.

WC: 1087

Wind from both the storm above and the ninja Fujin's Sky God SLayer Magic tore up the tower as the two warriors fought. Neither side were willing to give in and looked as if nature itself was turning on itself. Luckily while the two 'brothers' fought below, Kage and his foe fought in the air with their wings. Both ninja Exceeds clashed with one another with swipes and blows. The enemy, Bloody Mist, threw kunai of darkness at Kage-- who just dodged by length of his whiskers.

The latest bang from the colliding wind and lightning attacks distracted Kage briefly-- causing him to glance at the destruction like a black storm cloud that masked the two. "Sensei!" Kage cried-- hoping his master was alright.

But that was a fatal mistake as Bloody Mist swept right up behind him and grabbed the ash-colored tiger. He threw Kage into a headlock and wrapped his legs around his waiste while putting pressure around his neck. Kage growled fiercely and struggled to get free, but the enemy tiger had him tight.

"Never turn your back on an enemy. That is the most basic of basics, stupid!" Bloody snickered as he squeezed his arm into Kage's neck.

Kage fought the pressure to try and push free, his arm grasping at the enemy's arm to give some leeway. Still, Bloody Mist was far more skilled and stronger for the Exceed alone. Now even Bloody Mist could glance at the destruction below. "Seems like your master is a loser too. You two aren't even worthy to consider yourself ninja. It's only a matter of time till he is good as deadl. "

Kage growled as he pulled as hard as he could on the arm. Don't... count on it..!"

In the blink of an eye-- Bloody Mist's hold fell apart as his momentum to hold Kage felt as if it was nothing but air. Kage had slipped into his shadowy state and passed right through Bloody Mist, as if he was an illusion. As Bloody reeled from the shock of having his foe slip through his paws, -- Kage had merely passed through him and was now behind him.

"Surprise!" he snarled and slashed his claws at his back where his Aera wings were.

THe slash was right on target as it struck the magically conjured wings. With that critical hit-- the wings immediately popped away in a blink of light and Bloody Mist immediately plummeted. A loud roar came from him as he fell-- entering the hole of the building where they had emerged from.

Kage huffed and puffed, as he had managed to turn the tables just in time. With the enemy Exceed out of sight and mind for the moment, he looked towards Indra, hoping he could help his friend.

WC: 487

Each blast of black wind and followed a pattern of Indra barely evading its full force, him trying to counter-- and the Sky God Slayer soon consuming the surrounding air to refuel his energy and heal his injuries. It was becoming an uphill battle with no real end. The last gush of wind blew Indra backwards, tumbling down one of the last remaining bits of the building-- now with more holes in it than Swiss cheese. Indra coughed as the wind was knocked out of him as he fought to stand-- while Fujin floated above to look down at his brother.

"I should of expected this. A member of our clan, yet clueless of our power or training. Dragon Slayer or not, this is a pitiful sight..." he sneered.

Indra glared back, a now animistic glare in his eyes. Once again, they were of the different eye color-- but now his eyes tiny pupils in the fit of his anger. Still, he didn't answer back.

"This fight is over and the advantage is in my favor. Do you know why?" he boasted proudly, "While we are both slayers, our elements determine our battle endurance. You, while capable to eat lightning, can only eat it in distinctive moments. I-- on the other hand, can freely consume the air for energy any time I wish. My magic energy can regenerate far easier than yours. "

"Your point, jackass?"

By this time, Kage had gotten closer. "Master, hang on! I'll back you up!" he urged.

However, Indra turned his gaze to Kage-- the same dangerous, angry glare. "Stay back, Kage!" he commanded.

Startled by his sensei's fierce command, the tiger Exceed stopped and hovered where he was in the air. A worried look graced his mussel as he watched the fight continue.

"My point is-- It doesn't take a genius to tell you are both worn out and low on magic power. " He said as he held out a hand leisurely, black wind forming a sphere in his palm. "Now , I suggest you submit and pledge to serve under me, brother. Do so, and I won't suffocate you to death. "

There was a silence as Indra knelt there, the lightning and thunder clashing above in the storm. However, there was silence from him at first-- then a mild laugh. It suddenly grew into a bellow of his own, which made Fujin raise a brow in question.

Slowly, Indra rose to his feet. He was now at his limit. He had no choice now but to show him the truth. "I'll say this much. You are right that I am low on magic power and true you have a strong advantage... but here is where you are wrong," he growled deeply, and looked up at him through the bangs of his hair. "The only pathetic thing is you... and you're about to see why..."

It was then that the lightning above were no longer flashes, but began to flicker more constantly and illuminated the sky. The latest bang of thunder caused Fujin's eyes to widen with curiosity and look up.

Suddenly, lightning began to swell within the thunderclouds that eclipsed the entire area. It flickered wildly among the clouds, as if it was building up stronger with each passing second.

Worried, Kage quickly flew to a significant distance-- now worried if flying in the air in this kind of storm would be dangerous. However, the storm wasn't a random thunderstorm. It was the one Indra had began to build the moment the fight started with the other shinobi. Indra's lightning had caused a massive thunderstorm-- and fighting Fujin and his black wind only added to its ferocity.

"You called my magic pathetic... God slayer or not, you will pay for your blasphamy and be smited by the dragon's wrath." he said ominously. He soon raised a hand up-- lightning crackling from his hand in an odd pattern, almost akin to the lightning of the storm overhead.

Kage looked up in amazement, then back to Indra-- and back up again. "No way... He is using the storm's own lightning instead of his own magic power."

Even Fujin was speechless as he saw the intensity of the lightning dance in the clouds just overhead-- feeling foolish he never noticed the rapidly growing storm up till now. While it did grant him much more air to feed on-- it was building up to a bigger cluster of lightning as well.

"This jutsu guides the lightning down from the heavens themselves. All I need to do is merely direct its power right at you. And this spell cannot be dodged or evaded... " he explained, the storm now crackling with insane power. It was clear now why Lightning was so terrifying-- it strikes in 1/1000 of a second, faster than sound. And while lightning magic only generates a fraction of its true power, the natural lightning above could do one hundred times more power than any wizard could.

Fujin's eyes widened in surprise, dreading what was to come. "Wait--"

"Dragon Slayer Secret Art..." INdra growled and arched his hand high into the sky. "Raikou--- COME!!" WIth his cry-- the lightning in his palm shot upward into the sky-- where it met with the light-storm above.

In an instant, the lightning moved and took form! Out from the clouds emerged a creature, made of the very lightning of the storm itself. It pounced out of the very air-- like a massive giant tiger. The creature was indeed a cat-like creature, looking more like a regal tiger bathed in the lightning-- saved for its yellow eyes. After it showed itself, it let out a massive roar and jumped right back into the electrified clouds.

"Now be gone with the thunderclap..." Indra said and brought his hand down.

THe very gesture caused the massive tiger to reappear-- and lunge right down upon where Fujin was. The very impact caused an eruption and strike of lightning-- a massive pillar of searing, blinding energy that shot right through the tower and tore at its surroundings. The very thunder of the attack rang in their ears as it struck.

WC: 1090

The massive blast soon began to die down as the lightning stream faded and the thunder rolled away into the mountains. Smoke billowed from the now gaping hole of the building, now like a chasm. Indra breathed heavily as he saw his spell's effect, impressive even by his standards. He had little magic left and that blast from the sky exhausted the thunderstorm overhead-- a side effect on using the storm's own power in his attack. Kage had blinked from where he flew, feeling lucky as hell that the lightning didn't hit him. His eyes were wide with fright, unaware his friend and sensei could harness that much power in one hit.

Indra looked through the smoke, trying to sense his enemy's presence. There was an odd silence as he soon saw something through the smoke--

-- and there he was. Fujin still was there, but clearly different. A disappointed and surprised expression was on his face. But more so-- he was covered in series of burns and sears against him, likely from the lightning blast and resulting debris from the explosion. Further, his back had wings on it-- to reveal he was now being carried by Bloody Mist now sent back into his little cat form.

"That was a close one..." Bloody Mist growled. After he had fallen from Kage's attack-- he had transformed back after hitting one of the support beams. After he recovered a bit, he had tried to fly back-- only to catch Fujin just as he was about to fall.

"Indeed..." Fujin grumbled, glaring down at Indra from above. The two brothers glared at one another. Indra hated the fact he couldn't finish him off-- but he didn't seem to be in any fighting condition either. "That was impressive. Using the storm's own energy against me. Even with my recuperative powers, I cannot heal myself completely from the damage that spell did to me." He gritted his teeth. "It pains me to say it... but I'll consider this a win for you this time."

"Running away? Not very 'shinobi' of you , is it?" Indra mocked venomously. "Come back down and face your defeat."

Fujin didn't say much, but soon reached behind him while Bloody Mist held him up. "Consider this the price of my shame..." he said and tossed it towards Indra. Indra soon saw it-- being the book he was hired to acquire. He quickly caught it, realizing it was the target they needed. . "We already know the contents, so I might as well let you have it. But next time we meet, I hope we can make that reunion more... interesting,"

It was then that he gave a small wave-- and a billow of black wind swept over the two enemy shinobi. It swirled for a bit, and with a puff of 'air'-- they were gone.

Indra silently cursed himself for having those two ninja get away-- but it seemed more complicated. A brother he never knew, another ninja exceed, and he seemed to know him. What past Indra had, he didn't know himself, but there were more questions than answers there... and he would find it.

As Kage returned to the remains of the rooftop-- he gave a small puff of smoke and returned to his smaller form. "Are you okay, sensei?" he meowed, concerned.

INdra grumbled as he fought to keep standing. "I'm fine Kage" he replied grumpily. "Just not the ending I had hoped this mission would turn out to be. "

Upon obtaining the book, Kage took hold of it for safe keeping and went to look at it. "Alright, lets see what was so important..." Kage said as he opened the book and read a random page... ""Zelda looked at the chimney sweep. Her father, the vicor wouldn't be home for hours. Her loins were -- " WHAT?! " Kage shouted as he saw the book. To both their embarrassment, it was a book of erotica that seemed to be the target of their mission. "Are you kidding me?!"

Indra knew at least a bit better-- possibly a ledger hidden in code disguised as such a book, but he didn't tell Kage. His little fit was amusing to lift his mood after that clash.

With the enemies now gone, Indra proceeded to check the remains of the hideout. Among the ruins of the building, along with collecting the masks of the vanquished Shinobi-- he soon found another treasure of his brother's. A pair of clothing that seemed to radiate powerful magic. Taking it as a spoil of war, they soon made their way back to the client-- intending to return the book.

Kage soon followed, a defeated, disappointed look on his mussel to find the book of secrets was poorly written smut.

END>

WC: 850

TWC: 11,682