The Continental--

[Nappers]

# # # #

Forward As One

Tired of minding the stalls at the market? Sick of dealing with the same people day in, day out? Trouble finding a way out of the same old mundane regime? The answer is simple:

The Ninja Crime and Investigation Agency, the NCIA, could be the right choice for you. Having recently upgraded all facilities within the Empire we are prepared to accommodate new regiments of the continents elite to our ranks, that could be you. You will have access to all the latest training exercises and have the most qualified instructors to aid you during your service.

Our presence can be felt throughout the entire continent. For you this means that you will be able to fulfil all of your travelling desires despite the strict travel and trade regulations imposed on each nation.

The NCIA's purpose is to maintain harmony throughout the continent, to protect civilians from harm by the minority that deliberately attempt to disrupt the peace of the Empire. Terrorist factions and cells are still being tracked and eliminated, this war against these rebel factions in time, with your help, will come to an end and a universal peace throughout the land will arise as everyone can be assured that they are truly safe.

Join now and reap the rewards of a new, full and exhilarating life serving under the banner of the NCIA, defending your friends, family and nation from harm.

# # # #

- New NCIA recruits will recieve an addtional +125$ reward upon joining the NCIA.

- Any training done while in a designated NCIA facility will passively recieve and addtional +1 EXP per line for that training, this will not exceed maximum EXP per line benefits.

[Nappers]

# # # #

Rise Of A Nation

In recent times The Land of Rice Fields (Land of Sound) has experienced great turbulance with regard to terrorist cells operating to some degree and with ease. The superior forces of Kumo and the NCIA eventually eradicated these cells from the Country, restoring a degree of peace and harmony to the nation.

Some might find it disturbing that such a force could operate so closely on the boarder of the Empire capital, Kumo. This feeling has been shared by the most senior officials through the army and political figures. This event has galvanized the course of action that we are now witnessing.

NCIA Ninja by the droves are being restationed in The Land of Rice Fields. A new political leadership dubbed 'The Kyoukage Council' has been implemented to govern the minor nation. This Council consists of several high ranked Ninja, not all from the nation itself, with three main figureheads who carry with them increadible resume's.

From a fragile and torn nation, The Land of Rice Fields is poised to grow into a fortress of a nation - fitted on the doorstep of the Empire capital. How the Council decides to regenerate the nation is yet to be seen, though plans are afoot.

# # # #

ooc;

- Oto will be accepting applicants again, however, no character will qualify for Oto without an approval from me (Nappers).

- There will be no resistance characters in Oto.

- NCIA applicants from any village may choose to begin in Oto, as long as there is sufficient reason around this article in the character background.

[Nappers]

LastYear; [X]

* * * *

The End of the Old

(by Atsushi Ryoko)

Three years of Empire rule; one hostile year of maintaining order; one interim year of peace and prosperity; this year rumors of civil unrest. Where is the Raikage? The mighty hand that wields the Empire's armies and Special Ops unit (the NCIA) has been elusive as of late.

The past year has came and passed without so much as a murmur in some sections of the Continent whilst others have had unprecedented reports of crime investigate-able only by the NCIA and an entire array of 'rumors.' Empire officials will tell you that they are lies; NCIA officers won't even speak a word. The approachability of civil servants has dropped incredibly; it's no secret at that. Travel has gone from being restricted completely during the post-war year; to a 'free trade' regime where anyone could go as they please; to a minimalistic state with several checkpoint stations across the Continent.

These rumors range from masses of NCIA forces being defeated by 'Resistance' terrorist cells that oppose the Empire and have done since its coming into force to Resistance terrorist cells being organized enough to have conquered the Empire within their borders and taken back their land. But what real truth is there to these rumors? The implications of them if they are at all true could be the sparking of another grand operation by the Empire, even War.

Representatives of The Continental lobbied officials in both Stormhold and Nigiyakashufu, in The Country of Cloud and The Country of Fang respectively. After days of batting questions at the politicians only one cabinet member who will remain un-named had this to say to a reporter in private; "There are things going on in the Continent that are being kept from made public knowledge with regards to what is best in the interest of the public." A controversial, contradictory, and cryptic message to say the least.

Most rumors with regards to certain civil unrest trails back to The Country of Fire and Earth. Two of the largest nations within the Empire's Continent to be named in such a way is disturbing. That if any real threat is rising even as a suggestion then why has the Raikage failed to send forth his armies, the armies of the Empire, to eliminate and vanquish such a threat once and for all? Surely the Empire's power has not dissolved since the Great Ninja War; given technology of today and the magnitude of the Empire it would be more appropriate to say that their strength has grown.

With our interpretation of what is in the 'public interest' The Continental dispatched its own team of journalists and hired ex-Ninja to survey the dealings of the NCIA, the Empire, and these terrorist organizations within Countries with the Empire's Continent. Reports received at The Continental HQ were disturbing. Correspondents in The Country of Water, Fire, Earth and Wind all gave suggestion to increasing power of sub social organizations with agenda to overthrow The Empire in their respective countries. That their influence over social circles, even political bodies was increasing at an alarming rate and that in some cases the NCIA and Empire had been all but vanquished entirely, or at least that The Empire had withdrawn its own forces. Copies of our reports were sent to Soutenkanchougai, the Centralized Ninja Academy and to the Raikage's office and weeks later The Continental has yet to have reply.

Indeed something great is going on within the Empire's Continent and it's happening without public knowledge. Is the Next Great Ninja War a coming force, or is it already upon us? A secret war. With the technology available today, intelligence of Ninja and operative bodies this could very well be the case. When would we know the outcome? Theorists could argue that not only has the Next Great Ninja War begun, some time ago, that it has finished. That a new order exists already. Quite an assumption, unthinkable at that. Others believe that these 'Resistance' terrorist cells are not acting singularly but as one body, together, across the Empire's Continent. That these cells form one body poised to destroy the Empire and bring about a new regime.

The Continental has always sought the truth. The truth in this case is that no one is certain of what the truth is among the endless barrage of lies. The future of the Continent is a mystery. The strength of the Empire of today is, however, not to be debated; but when will it be seen?

* * * *

+ You may age your character by one (1) year, mainly if the character has existed since the last linked 'special recap.'

+ You need not age your character has been recently approved then this ageing isn't be necessary but you may choose to if you wish so.

[Nappers]

* * * *

The Return

(by Atsushi Ryoko)

The majestic eternal deserts of the Country of Wind. Deep within this timeless graveyard we find one of the most unreachable villages on the Continent, the fearless Sunagakure no Sato. Long has this Land been known for producing some of the most resourceful Ninja that the World has ever seen. Even with the experience added to the Village by the influence of the Empire and NCIA forces beckoning from countries near and far could have prepared any spectator from the unfathomable sight a few miles stretch from the village.

From beneath the golden fairy dust of the desert awakened the mightiest of dragons. It's decorated scales a form of organic metal, it's girth estimated at 20 feet, and as it rose into the air experts believe it could have been anywhere between 120 and 200 feet in overall length. The Continental's resident dragonologist believes that it's description impeccably resembles that of Seiryū, the greatest of all the legendary dragons. For the last dragon sighting one would need to look back in the records over two hundred years in the Eastern Ocean region. Truly a spectacular event.

The Wind Country populous is divided however on the origins of this mythological being. As promptly as it arose did it disappear in a large explosion as it crashed down onto the ground - perhaps burying itself beneath the earths surface again to guard the most precious of treasure's whatever they may be. Some people do in fact believe that this dragon was and is Seiryū and have turned to throw out their neopolitical views, religion or general faith and have turned to the ancient arts of dragon worship. Crazy though it may be. Others believe that it was simply a Ninja Art, a Ninjutsu of incredible power by an even more powerful Ninja. The Continental lobbied both senior NCIA staff in the Country of Fang and Country of Wind, however a mute order has been issued to anyone with knowledge until further notice. One, believed an NCIA agent, was recovered from the site and a pile of what is presumed by The Continental to be some form of biological waste was too promptly scooped up.

The subsequent 24 hours more astonishing events unraveled in the Country. 'The Resistance' of the Country of Wind was finally eradicated by the NCIA tipped off from informants and local persons to the, still undisclosed, hideouts; yet another terrorist organization to fall to the NCIA along with that of the Country of Rice Fields, Fire, and Earth. 'A harmonious Empire will always prevail' is the message of fresh recruits, turncoats from 'Resistance' groups and children amazed by the superiority of the NCIA.

And yet the question beckons, what next for the NCIA, what next for the Empire? Once the Continent is truly in order - what plans does the elusive Raikage have? Over the past year The Continental has attempted to schedule a conference with our esteemed leader yet there's a distinct disinterest from The Country of Lighting offices.

Nonetheless the world continues. Commerce in Soma continues to rise, along with liberated Hotarunoshi. More prospective 'Ninja' sign up in record numbers to the NCIA and the grip of the Empire on the Continent grows forever tighter.

Is this the nirvana we were promised all those years ago?

* * * *

[Azure]

• • • • •

Dusk to Dawn

(by Fuyaka Jun)

The glorified dream, the perfect reality that once was; and in theory could still be. Peace, prosperity, protection. But as time and time again proves, the world does not turn as all want. Feuds, arguments and negative emotions hit the floor and the whole world is in a ruckus. Three years ago, the world saw the dreams and opportunities presented; the day seized and the world fell to peace after the armed forces of Kumogakure no Sato put in to motion its operation for peace. The shinobi involved were strictly order not to harm citizens, which was upheld astonishingly and only the defensive resisters were laid to rest in the name of Peace. For, anyone who can read these words, we know we have witnessed it before our eyes. The changes, for better and for worse, this is our future. It's becoming increasingly popular to publish all works of propaganda, with all of the recent news events. Some say these days are a trial, to test the limits of the dream, others mutter we dug our graves.

The once stable Country of Grass has been thrown in to a metamorphosis. Synthesizing the common terrorist faction known as the Resistance forces, group divided amongst the lands, but united in their own dream to unify the ways of old and reverse the process that the Ninja Crime Investigations Agency had wrought. We, as a world, had witnessed the uprising of the Country of Earth and Wind, our communications and trade cut and the Country of Fang building its defensive perimeters, for two of its neighboring country is that of the Wind. The aforementioned, Earth and Wind also share borders; a strategic combination. In the past few months, changes could be seen in our home country, a greater increase of soldiers on the Western border; even scheduled rallies for fresh new recruits.

The Land of Grass, one of the six ancient shinobi villages; now part of the seven modern hidden villages has been in a constant state of Guerrilla warfare for the past two months. Most of us had read the signs, notices and heard warning clauses before a visit to Kusagakure no Sato. The chance of an attack wasn't perceived to be high, but a chance in the end. However, as we find today, those two months of relentless exchanges of power, the route to the country of Grass has been blockaded , for in a quick thirty minutes, the final battle fro the country unfolded. Per first account witnesses and soldiers of the battle whose destination was set for home after the skirmish; there have been an ocean of stories from our northern border.

Off the accounts, most stories seemed to have a few points in common, around noontime; then the sun stood above the world; in Kusagakure, its rays shined down to touch all the blades of grass that day. The exact numbers are in question- but at least two hundred and fifty troops, in estimate were seen rushing over the hills in to the Ninja Crime Investigation Acegency's encampment. The leading force, a humongous elephant; in nature a beast of an animal, but according to accounts, there was no illusion to its thirty story tall measure; the reports were confirmed that the only possible solution was that of a summoned creature. On top of that theory, the well known toad master, Gambunta rode along as well. The anceint toad who was the personal creature affiliated with the Sennin Jaraiya, of Konohagakure. Insane as that may sound, the creatures do exist, consider it a blessing if you befriend something whose meal is much greater than you. Soldiers have returned, some with serious cases of lung trouble, in due to an inhaled poison; do not worry, for it's not contagious, but most of those who contracted the poison were left on the battle field. There was only a handful of survives, ones who pulled out of the attack before the climax, disobeying orders to fight, but they were the ones who staggered back in the best condition.

The finale to the war in the country of Grass is inconclusive. There were no survivors that were witness to the final moments, severe chunks in testimonies mission, that could only be filled in with wild and crazy assumptions and tales. Most of the stories told would be thought to be dictated by drunken mouths and intoxicated minds. Exclamations about a demon, an ancient creature, the five tailed beast of the Country of Grass. After pages of history, Gobi was the name that popped up, though actual accounts are not hard evidence. Despite some attempts, no soldiers entered in to Kusagakure no Sato after that time, after all connection was lost. For the several thousands of soldiers lost, a conglomerate funeral and memorial service was scheduled in three days, the names of all the dead were compiled, to be made in honor of their service.

Since that date in history; there have been increasing talk about the instability of the Empire. As another country falls to the acclaimed terrorists; another country that borders The Country of Fang. If the Country of Fire is to fall, then, there is no doubt the entire country will be in an uproar. Their resistance efforts have failed in the past; but Konohagakure has been known for its resilience; the symbolic affiliated spirit of the Sixth Hokage, Naruto. Building on to that uncertainty, shinobi enlisted in to the Ninja Crime Investigation Agency have been disappearing lately, some known to be defecting a betraying the empire in light of the situation and others falling in to the unknown. Our very own Hunter-nin organization established in The Country of Fang has been wiped from existence. The promising members Hyouki Kousetsu, Haramatsu Korin, Sensukai Sato, Yamanaka Bara; all have disappeared. The hunter-nins have left, a piece of protection in the Empire is gone along with squad leader Wukong Aiko. This, in turn, has pulled a dramatic effect on other's view points. Questions of 'If the hunters have abandoned the Empire, then how will we defend ourself' and riddles of the competence of the Empire plague the minds of our citizens. People are in fear, thoughts of running loose from the Country and fleeing to the 'freed' nations in hopes to start a new life and avoid any potential bloodshed in The Country of Fang, Kumogakure, Otogakure, Kirigakure and Konohagakure. The higher ups seem to be scrambling to keep all their ranks under control, but even still- it's obvious for the masses to see some uncertainty is overbearing.

Meetings are scheduled left and right, communication is becoming frantic between the country of Fang and Kumogakure no Sato. Perhaps dreams can only last so long. One year, it seemed like the world was at peace; a stable economy and protection across the Continent. But in another year, opposing forces sprung up and a year later, we are in this predicament. Otogakure has been reported to have a surplus of resources and their economy is booming currently. The Empire has even put in to motion an agreement for workers, in order to appease the demand of jobs in the Country of Coal; where it is not aligned with the Empire, but the workers deriving from our homeland retain the benefits. As one part of the country seems to fall, other sections show good fortune. The future is truly an unnatural thing to foretell.

Only time will unravel Life's mysteries.

• • • • •

• Kusa is now free, all Kusa applicants must be for the Resistance only.

Edited January 8, 2008 by Azure

[Azure]

• • • • •

The Crimson Dawn

(by Fuyaka Jun)

:[special Edition!]:

Our world as we know it, or rather; what we did know from in, is now crumbling. Along with the corroded buildings, rusting iron, and deteriorating living creatures. Economics, Politics, Government, Life styles and Dreams; all fading, crashing, in ruin. As is life. As the world turns, the past is left behind. Our old world, of Peace, Order and Stability has turned upside down. Our world in shambles, a civil war at our feet. Things that normal citizens cannot do anything about. Protesting, rioting, nothing gets us anywhere. But in our world, we are fine, happy. Our world in toil, because of the existence of shinobi. Some have dreamed of being one, others hide their children from that destiny, but our world still reeks of its existence. We push for peace, but what we find is only a moment’s breath. A sigh in time, in which life seems beautiful, but after that moment; humanity is faced with more danger. No longer can secrets be held from the public. It’s obvious that our dream is falling, but we are being promised a stronger future. Words from officials point towards measures in action. Whether these words are simply our candy, or truth, time will tell.

Horrors of our past, old faces in history seen again, through their trademarks. We are a world of shinobi. We cannot shake our past, though some see solutions in ridding the world of shinobi, others see the recent events positive. On either side you stand, there is no denial in the words that many die. And we are all connected in a strange type of way. We are a degree of separation apart from each other, one affecting the next and the next in an endless cycle of union. When one dies, it affects a handful of people, on both spectrums. The nightmare that were are; humanity. We fight, argue, pillage and rage war. But that is because we are human. And in some part of our lives, we are happy- for those lost; remember them kindly. So it goes.

Time and time ago, one story is apparently looked over. One important landmark in the world history that we’re entailed with today. What transpired in the land of Fire. An illustrious land through history, the famous lines of Hokage that have influenced the shinobi world many times over. It soon marks the one year anniversary since the foundation of the land was shaken; a ruckus that looked to pave the path for the purging of the empire’s fingers from the land, but what ended in a surprising downfall. The task force was not large at all, four or five individuals were identified to be the cause of the uproar. A few of these names were found achieved in the Country of Fang’s record library, dating back a decade in some cases. The soul in command of their forces went by the name of Chouzou. His records have been confiscated from the public, but rumor has it, he was once hunted by Kumogakure and Konohagakure. There were three directly under his command. The group of them had lead an assault across the points of structure in the city. They were clearly intent on only harming the Ninja Crime Investigation Agency and all roots of the Empire within the Hidden Village of Fire. The reported casualties of the attack were only NCIA brand soldiers, no civilians were found near the fighting, the Resistance had evacuated them safely. Could they really be a heartless terrorist group when these people appear to be selfless?

There was only one man identified out of the group, a shinobi by the name of Hyuuga Yatako. The others are currently being investigated, but there haven’t been traces of them; only for one. He was reported last seen with Alchem Syaoran, both high ranking criminals of the Empire. They are extremely dangerous alone, paired up the duo are among the empire’s most wanted list.

The control of the empire has dwindled in Fire country. The economy seems to be on the rise for the public, but the buildings razed by the Resistance are beyond the point of simple repair. Communication was shut off in the land, only messengers could relay the information to us. Scientific research has been destroyed and shut down, surveillance has become cut and the soldiers remaining in Konohagakure is a crippled force at best. Higher in commands were killed. On the last battlefield, the shinobi made their stand, many died, mostly for the NCIA; the ratio was gruesome. True numbers have not been determined, but public eyes would not wish to see them. Strangely enough, the Resistance withdrew, when they seemed to be on the verge of victory. The reason why is baffling all tacticians in the Empire.

For the fallen, everyone. Be it friend or foe, they deserve a moment of respite and remembrance. Reverence and respect. Let all who read this print bow their heads and think how one life affects another, several others. Us, in a puddle of relationships, a degree so separation away. Are we all related somewhere back along the road? Sometimes it feels like it. Let us remember those lost, how they impacted us and gave meaning to our life. So it goes.

• • • • •

• All new Konoha applicants must now have information about the attempt for the village's freedom and the effect it had on said character.

Edited January 24, 2008 by Azure

[Azure]

• • • • •

Twilit Water

(by Fuyaka Jun)

Dominoes fall, one to the next, drawing artistic and wonderful designs. However, some wish the dominos not to fall, but gaze on their accomplished works that took ages to complete. Often a quarrel and struggle to determine how the dominoes will be kept. An accident, or a third party members unknowing causes the final action resulting in the dominoes fall.

The Empire is but dominoes anymore. The chain reaction is taking place as these words are writ, the chance to stop the process is a faulty error which causes one domino to slide out of place, ending the fall before all pieces drop to the floor. Should we pray for such an error? I fear for our safety, the boarders between us and the outside are sliming. The Country of Fang and The Country of Lighting, two partners of creating and maintaining the Empire are becoming isolated between borders and the notifications of transgressing shinobi are ample.

Reports have trickled in to the news media regarding the state of the island of Water Country. Small reports here and there have been acknowledged by the Ninja Crime Investigation Agency as a possible threat made by terrorist. A prison guarding the most dangerous criminals to the Empire deriving from the Water Country had been desolate. The prisoners were set free, their method of escape unknown, but reports indicated they were freed. No reports could identify the perpetrators, but security was increased over the island. Mainly the borders at ports in the first phase, several months later until the investigations could go underway. Through the few months, small troubles arose here and there, but nothing that would appear to be a strong threat against the Empire’s influence. Connecting the dots in the present; some would argue.

Some citizens of Kirigakure were witness to an assembly of shinobi, appearing in NCIA vests were gathered in the central park, though mind was not paid towards it, nor can reports indicate anything substantial from that event, whether it proves relevance to future events or not. According to witness, after the time the group broke up in to four parts, did the four corners of Water Country fall to siege.

War torn and battle wrought, became the lands pointed by the compass rose. The Northern straights, the Southern Valley, the Western Beaches and the Eastern Shire of Teijuu. The skirmishes consisted of The Empire’s naval assault force, coming from the crippled Country of Fire. They were successful in areas of breaking through the Umikaze Naval Alliance blockade, touching the shores of the North and West. All had happened under the veil of night.

The fleet that entered the Northern Straights was met by a thickening fog and a snowy storm. These reports were made by the very few who fled from the North after barley surviving. They reported a dome of mist surrounding the entire area, blocking out the faces of two gigantic beasts, an amphibian and a reptile. It was confirmed that the fleet was met by a single shinobi, a Hisame no less. Renowned for their art in crafting ice and their peerless history of Kirigakure failed them not to this day. They were thought to have been wiped away over the years, if only just a handful remaining. This one boy wore the clan symbols, his ability did not lie. Monster, demon, abominable snowman; three synonyms reported by sailors who escaped. Their chilling tale that the Hisame had froze the straights, catching their ships in ice as the soldiers scrambled to meet the crystal blade he drew. He rode on icy soles, his feet gliding above the snow and wintry terrain. The soldiers then went on to report a second Hisame joined the battle, along with a giant Eagle, which provided cover for the Hisame pair to break apart the ice with immense hail weights, raining on the ships. The heavy weights caused the floating tanks to sink and then they froze the water again. The boats could not resurface, the people could not escape. The survivors were those on shore, the few immediately fled to the ships entering the straights that weren’t caught in the destruction; the ships turned in reverse and fled the island; back to the Country of Fire.

Decrees of unseen voices were heard n the Southern Valley. Echoes from lipless tongues. A booming wave of words washed over the soldiers that were stationed in the South. He walked through the air as though he glided through the sky. His legs worked several times quicker than a typical human. But he was not singular for long, looking back on records and files; he had been identified as Kinsen Rasen, a shinobi who was an accomplice to the Kusagakure Resistance. Rasen was once a part of the Otogakure Resistance, known to be paired with another Resistance member called Cho Hakkai. Rasen had with him an alley from the history books; the legendary Frog Gambunta. Even stranger was the appearance of Manda, the Snake of Orochimaru. A rare sight in the world, odd to be in the Water Country, but their rivalry did not fall short. A vicious hurricane unfolded before them, its monsoon washing over the battlefield and guiding the soldiers to the ocean. It was the end of the snake’s reign, for the maelstrom washed it back to the plane from whence it was called. Connections were lost from that point forward.

The Western shores housed the next assault. The ships of the NCIA drew near, but the forces of nature were against them. A lighthouse was before them, the ships drifted in through the clean ocean tide. The misty evening lured them closer, the light was their only guidance. But the forces of nature were against them, the tides started to churn and whip. The boats shifted towards the shoals of the shore, people in disarray and panic. The midnight sky began to open up, storms, rain and clouds poured over the beach, raging up the sea even greater. A shinobi revealed themselves as Umikoi Warrusu. They were the cause of all the catastrophe, what more rumors that Umikoi Warrusu rose from the grave! Our records report a courageous and strong leader of Kirigakure no Sato by that name, his exact record unknown, the mystery baffling us. Before the men’s eyes this ‘Warrusu’ decapitated the Jounin captain; many were left behind, the few that escaped remain in our borders.

Within the shire of Teijuu, a fortress was infiltrated, one death had been recorded, the true details to be discovered. The perpetrator? Haramatsu Korin, a former Hunter-Nin! This fact in and of itself threw the NCIA in a state of awe. One of their own, their trusted own turn coated and rebelled against them. With their own turning against them, rumors of more traitors are arising, the populous is becoming concerned with this fact; they’re scared.

With yet another section of our known globe broken free, the forces of the Ninja Crime Investigation Agency are being forced back to the Country of Fang. It could be only days until another outbreak occurs, even some say an attack on Fang is next! A third possibility is Fang will be left alone, but the ideas and outcomes are infinite.

All we can do as humans is wait for time to shares the writing from its quill to the eyes of man. Wait, watch and pray. The world turns, a baby is born and an elderly person passes. In these times we are given a glance at the truths of life. What will we find? We are not meant to know everything, for we are human. We have conflicts within our own being, emotions such as love are indefinable.

Such as life.

• • • • •

• Kirigakure no Sato is now Free, all Kiri applicants must be for the Resistance.

• All Resistance characters are now requested to Travel either to Iwa or Kiri.

Edited January 25, 2008 by Azure

[Azure]

• • • • •

End of an Age

(by Fuyaka Jun)

Goodness gracious I'm thankful to have my head and my hands to write these very words today! I'm sorry for taking a moment out of writing secular prose to informally voice my own perspective but after everything that had just happened; I'm surprised to still be alive! I wasn't touched during the recent invasion of Nigiyakashufu but with all the shrapnel falling in just days my heart skipped several beats during those sleepless hours. I can only imagine this is what it felt to be the recipients of those three years past, when Kumogakure had invaded the other villages. I'm going to go off on a limb here and think that these past few days have truly been an eye opener to all of the people in the world. Just how similar we all really are. Right about now, a smart alack history scholar would say "history repeats itself!” with a smug little smirk on his face. But in all seriousness, whether we called our self allied with these Resistance forces or the Empire, there are no boundaries of separation anymore, we all are simply people living in this world.

The best of the best débuted their endless quest of blood, sweat and tears all climbing to the climax that had become of the day's troubles. Several warriors partook in scattered battles strewn throughout the city and even in faraway places. As a civilian, I must say that it's truly frightening at the revelation that shinobi can climb to these amounts of power. Truly we haven't seen anything as destructive since the days of the Akatsuki and the Tailed-Beasts roaming our lands. I'm almost afraid to take a guess at what otherworldly spirit might be lurking in broad daylight on knit in the shadows waiting for the world to find next.

Figure headed names that we've grown to love or hate respectively have all shown their face when the glorious battles transpired. The general of the Ninja Crime Investigations Agency, Momochi Rakurai squared off against the leader of the combined Resistance forces, Alchem Syaoran in a battle that would be seen throughout many miles of the war zone. I've heard rumors that Rakurai had released the Death Gate- the last of the Celestial Gates of the human body, the Gate that gives the person immensurable power at the cost of their life. When he had utilized the phenomenon, the midnight sky had been infused with a gigantic radiance that imitated a solar light. Then the Fang General had broke through the dimensions, yes, severed the invisible walls and threads that tie our world together! For a brief moment, the two mammoths disappeared from our sights, but within only minutes we can only assume we heard a climactic end. With a gigantic explosion, the sky was ripped in to shreds until a numbing silence brought about a synthetic storm. One that provoked ominous nightmares.

The storm ripped the seams of the natural sky; it was as if life itself was cowering of the future. Eight individuals marched against the heavenly palace of Soutenkyuuden, knowing very well the timeless figure they would face. The man that carved their nightmares for so long, the shadow that devoured their past and influenced fate itself to his whim. The Raikage, Inabaki Raikou. Whereas many of us cheered and cried in joy at our phantasm, he was met by hardened hearts aimed for his destruction. Alchem Syaoran, Hyuuga Yatako, [Name withheld], Umikoi Warrusu, Kinsen 'Raz' Rasen, Haramatsu Korin, Hisame Haruyuki, and Akasabure Kouta were the legendary eight that sought to tip the scales back in to Fate's hands once again. These ‘terrorists' that we've heard bringing down the Empire's grips on their nations now stood at the face of the ‘terrorist' of their eyes. If it was even possible to stand as a third party and looked at these two forces, the electric emotions riding on each end would be nerve racking.

The storm of ages rocked the palace, as four of the Raikage's elitists battled against the fearsome warriors, I do not have the time to delve into all of these battle details but rest assured good readers, I'll make sure you can have your fill of the timeless actions! I'm certain that everyone can attest that we'll be able to guess what happened next, the legendary eight had vanquished their adversaries and now were about to square off against our king. The resistance seemed to be altruistic as they protected a barrier around the palace to ensure none of their rumbles could reach out and touch any of us civilians or their own men. In one's perspectives, two terrorist groups were encased in combat. In another's, two superhuman sects prepared to martyr themselves for their people.

In the zero hour, the magnificent cry of Kirin shook the bounds of the Earth as Raikou released his final judgment on eight, flinging its electric body through the entire capital country, lighting the sky from the dark night to a terrifying awe inspiring apocalyptic noon. It hadn't mattered what sentiments you held to either side of the clashing factions, you were alive and thusly a target to this beast. Miraculously no one had perished on the outside of the palace walls, but several hundred people had felt the offspring of Kirin, some more in critical condition than others. Then the Hachinin carried out their dreams and etched the namesake of Inibaki Raikou in to the obituary.

The earth trembled ambiguous to either fear or retaliating power, light night danced through the sky. A miraculous sight descended from the torn sky, gigantic shadows assuming the figures of unrespectable origins tore back the clouds and a booming voice reigned from the heavens above with a size the neared the proportion of the world itself. It only stayed for but a moment, that which would make it seem like a mere dream, I can only speculate whether it was real myself. In another instant, the overbearing figure was whisked away, leaving Raikou speaking a final word of surrender before departing this earth for eternality

In retrospect, the hype for the century was fulfilled; if one was looking for a climactic end they would have it on that day. I'm sure I'm not the only one praying that there will not be a need for such dynamic forces to clash in our time, or even the time of this earth for I fear that the obelisks that hold up this world to the next will crumble all too quickly.

What further news I have is slim. Since the fall of the Empire in most states, words travel slowly and I'm not entirely sure if The Continental will survive this aftermath. If the hidden villages revert back to solitude, I can't promise my reports any longer. I can say that a historic event happened with our walled city: Alchem Syaoran was promoted to the esteemed title of Tsuchikage during the new day's dawn. I am also delighted to share my hope that a ray of light shines on this world: a group of Hyuuga Yatako, Umikoi Warrusu, Akasabre Kouta and Sensukai Sato served as diplomats to the former mother country of the Empire- Kumogakure no Sato. In addition to the peace talks with Kumogakure's Head Sage Tokeiza Jishin, the diplomats brought the body of Raikou home for a proper burial for our great leader.

And that as my friends say is that, even though some of the Hidden Villages remain chained to the remnants of the empire, the Resistance, no, I should say the nationalists seem eager to change that. Today I would go so far as to say we are no longer bound by the territories we call our habitat, but rather people of one world. For all that had met their end for the contingencies in their hearts, I say we take a moment to respect them, for in their last breath have built this world we live in. We are now responsible for the world we live in more than ever.

In front of us is clean slate so to speak. What will become of it?

• • • • •

• There is no more 'NCIA' or 'Resistance' option at character creation. Every applicant will start in their village or place of choice.

• Keep in mind that Oto is still not free.

• Keep in mind that Konoha is still not free.

• Full story of the final battle.

[cntrstrk14]

• • • • •

Rice Emancipated

(by Tokodo-shimadeska Yoshi)

News of freedom echoes from the north not even a full day after the fall of the Kumogakure Empire! Rice never tasted so good! This story comes from the eyes of first hand accounts, retelling the tale of a small group of heroes who fought against odds that physicists could only dream about in their wildest fantasies. Hope has been restored to the small Country of Rice Fields as the final thread of control from the remaining NCIA was severed in the grueling showdown that took place right in the village center!

Resumo Brash, the leader of the resistance forces in the country led a counter attack directly following the Battle of Nigiyakashufu. His small force, of no more than twenty ninja, infiltrated the village and had a quick coup, overthrowing the NCIA in under an hour. However, with the first in command out of the picture, it was a much greater enemy that awaited them. From our sources, Ursiel Li, the second in command of the NCIA forces in the village, went on a rampage of improbable measure. At the time that it happened, many claimed to have no idea what was going on. It was not until later that they would know the truth, after the battle was finished. No comment from Resumo Brash is available at this time.

Midway through the fight, as the resistance forces were divided by the strange tactics of their enemy, Kinsen Rasen, Kazuo Nidori and Haramatsu Korin, the same names that had fought in the Battle of Nigiyakashufu, returned to the country only hours after their previous fight. An account from the border guard at the time tells that they arrived about 5 hours after the initial infiltration, all four of them entering the village. It is unclear what happened between their arrival and the final battle, but from witness accounts, it was Kazui Nidori who found many of the villagers and Kinsen Rasen along with Haramatsu Korin who were able to bring them back to, what witnesses claim as ‘the real Oto'. What this exactly means is unclear, but it seems that the civilians had been captured and were being held hostage at the whim of Ursiel Li.

In the final hour of their fight, the sky was dotted with a strange storm of crows, the village was under siege and it was there four heroes along with Resumo Brash, his younger sister Resumo Leira and a team of Otogakure no Sato elites who fought off the assault as Ursiel Li finally revealed himself. In the final strike, as witnesses claim to have seen what appeared to be the contents of an entire city falling down to crush them under the weight like a meteor from the sky, Kisen Rasen, Cho Hakkai and Kazui Nidori made the final strike, combining forces and vanquishing their enemy in one final assault! Freedom at last, and had by three of the best ninja out Country of Rice Fields has ever produced!

In the following aftermath Resumo Brash was named Kyoukage of the village in a silent ceremony, putting the construction and stabilization of the village ahead of any celebration. We still have no comment at this time about the state of the village, but we have been assured that news will come as it is available.

Again, the slate has been cleared, but as my fellow reporter Fuyaka Jun said just yesterday, what will we as the citizens make of it?

• • • • •

• Oto is now free, applicants may apply to join the village.

• Full story of the battle that broke Oto.

[Azure]

• • • • •

The New World

(by Fuyaka Jun)

I tip my hat to you world. I stand up for an ovation that only ceases when my heart stops drumming inside of its chambers. On this anniversary of five years after the peace treaty between the previous empire of Kumogakure no Sato and the other nations of the world I personally salute every single one of my readers. I’d salute ever single breathing (or even not) being if they’d read this and increase my ratings! But only my faithful readers are whom I may attest to.

As we all may recall in these past five years, the legendary villages have built themselves up sustainably since the treaty signing. Two of the men who contributed highly to the cause of this; Alchem Syaoran and Hyuuga Yatako were both promoted to the respective Kages of their villages. Although the rest of the legendary eight have their own little parts behind the scenes. In all reality, if not for the harmony of those in the limelight and those in the shade of night working hand and hand, we wouldn’t have the world we do today. Despite small tiffs between interrelations between interactions amongst ourselves, as a whole we’ve kept this peace. The life of a ninja has digressed back to its ancient terms only with a new age twist. We’re built on a mixture of the old and new and we’re proving this is irrefutable proof that it works. I don’t wish to jinx us, for those of you who believe in that celestial power of chance or karma but if no one declares their happiness, then who is to say we can truly appreciate what we have? If we’re afraid of speaking what we truly feel, what kind of world do we really live in if we’re still shackled by our own tongues.

Alchem Syaoran had implemented a strange new and possibly heretic form of transportation built by his own brain. We all saw the three approaching ships soaring through the sky and descending on the capital of the world. We’ve all heard the epic tale and tucked our children in with its hopes and exciting chills. The three airships that daunted through the sky and insinuated their radical charge on the rusting empire. The Tsuchikage had created a fleet of the airships that were customized on his advice in the base stationed in Iwagakure no Sato. The IAF () was his creation, under the supreme stress of protecting the nation’s border. He eventually retired from its head position, but he started the wheels of change in the structure of the world as we know it. Though in this half decade, I believe we will start to hear and see new faces scramble in to the headlines.

On a more recent note about the Country of Earth, they had a new election for Prime Minister status. Daniel Hallows would be the man that Fate corkscrewed into those shoes. His very name whispers rebellion against norms and foreshadowed his finger work. Demanding his name followed the reverse traditional format, with his surname after his first name, along with his foreign name to begin with. His ideals are radical, seen through his dynamic policy in replanting the land’s economy. Searching out mineral rich sites, his plan involves taking advantage of the resource rich mines and capitalizing off simple vegetation and the flamboyant tourist business for the city of Metropolis. His popularity will balance between the success of his implementations and his relation with the infamous Tsuchikage.

The Hokage, Hyuuga Yatako took a slightly different approach to his nation’s defense. He enlisted the aid of a name known to the land of Earth, but absent from a few history texts of the Kumogakure empire time period- yet Uchiha Nevan has made quite a few appearances as of yet. Nevan was promoted to ANBU general and the pair recreated the Konohagakure branch of special opts. However, Yatako suspected along with ANBU, would eventually sprout the notorious ROOT in opposition, so the fresh Hokage enacted a separate organization even more secretive than the shadowy warriors. The Hokage has also developed a very strong relationship between the village and Hotourunoshi, along with the Daimyo, Yoshida Kasumi. Yatako worked perilously to restore respect to the Daimyo name. After electing his council, the leader spent most of his time outside of his office working to restore his broken country. Rallying together his people, the Hokage removed himself from the village format and worked more for his entire country, rebuilding with his hands and his words. His messages of hope and unity brought together the nation like in olden times. The ceremony of celestial fireflies marking the tribune to the dead and celebration of the bright future foreshadowed his ascension. His reconstruction of the government integrated the village council to the country’s reserve government. Despite the preservation, protection and growth of the infamous Forest of Death, the nation cracked down on its exports of lumber and other vegetation found in the mysterious natural wonder. Supernatural growth has consumed the phantom parts of the forest, making the forest seem oddly complete once again. Yatako is working to prevent the structure falling to shambles as it were. Years later, the village had become thriving again. The land of fire strengthened its relations with the land of earth; primarily because of the two Kages were close war buddies. Yatako also made it a personal outreach to the land of lightning, trying to regain trust among peoples. Taking advantages of its southern shores, fishing villages have sprouted up, importing a handful of cultures and customs into the land of thriving influence.

The ghost town of Kinomi no Toshi had been rebuilt as a national landmark, with paranormal activists flooding its replicated streets. Many expect to see ghosts roaming around the area, as if the seams to another dimension was cracked open in the cataclysm in blue fire that occurred years back. None other than the last resident alive is its governor, Yochi Tsukasa. Although as we recall, he claimed affiliation to an enigmatic clan called the Hōhken, along with the priest Noel and the martyr Soujiro who relived the world of the NCIA captain in change of Fire Country. Tsukasa would not comment any further, as if there were a secret society in the world, but the Hokage sure seems calm with all this mystery.

Even if miniscule in land, the shinobi village Otogakure still develops news on par with its greater village partners. Kyoukage Resume Brash stacked his grains of rice, rebuilding his country over the past few calendar cycles. However, the towers of rice have shaken and crumbled over the past three years with poverty slaying the land. With the buildup of the other nations and pressure of lesser nation forces, the land of Rice has suffered severely and would probably have fell completely if not for few strong hands that tipped the world to listen and hold up their country. Small sects of protests eat away at the inner organs of the country, thirsting the military force to be dropped and funding to be redistributed to the nation itself to stimulate the economy. This worries this reporter, for has it not been seen that two of the Hachinin came from this country? Even if small, it produces a unique spin on the nindo and ninja lifestyles. If the shinobi system is dropped, it could shift the poles of power and any balance formed in the nation could collapse. National security could suffer, but if nothing is done, Otogakure will surely fall back into the swampy graves it was raised from. The country is in hunger for salvation, could those faces in the sky provide, or are they hopeless illusions? Do little invisible hands make the world spin?

Perhaps it is the curse of dwelling in the black shadows, the cost of pleading for immediate relief. Kusagakure no Sato opened an ancient door to past monstrosities that pillaged the world and robbed it of its sanctity. However, in their desperate plea, their freedom was gained and in the blink of an eye, neighbor sought against neighbor and crumbs cracked from the inside. Peace was not on the tongues of children, their only words were tear choked, gazing upon a leveled mass of their homeland. As if a giant hand swept all civilization away in tribute. My sources speculate that awakening the demon caused this terrible mess and to add onto the wormhole of chaos- Harakage Sutoroken Kitari and her ANBU Black Ops bodyguard, Inuzuka Jinoubou, have both been out of the picture, leaving a substitute Harakage, Sutoroken Hanatarou, to lead the country as it falls apart. In a desperate attempt to unite the country in motherly hands, the council elected Haramastu Korin as the current Harakage. Perhaps a woman such as herself can pull the country from its ashes. So what remains in this country is very questionable, since information is under strict wraps. I can only pray these wraps will not mummify this village. Kusagakure’s borders are heavily guarded and shut down, which leaves any willful aid hard to come in to its borders. Was the pleasant dream of constructing a land based off the old but heralded with new faces too much to hope for? Maybe we dreamed too high.

On a pleasant note (and a slightly smutty and gossipy one!) Kinsen ‘Raz’ Rasen has asked of the hand of his fellow companion through the tunnel of love, Haramatsu Korin to eternally be wed locked in matrimony until death do they part and meet again in what’s past this life and no intermingling in between! Folks we know a shinobi’s marriage isn’t like a typical one, with the possibility of crossing over during ever skirmish or mission. Their vows are forever! That ceremony blessed Kusagakure and redeemed it for the terrible demonic scar it held in the past years. But alas dear faithful, love conquers all!

Once a land nightmarishly whispered “The Bloody Mist” is experiencing a type of Renaissances, taking special interest in the families that are found common in its borders. Instead of civil tensions hindering the progress of the whole, it has become more accepting to live with one’s neighbor and exchange altruisms. Even without a Mizukage, Kirigakure no Sato has survived these years and still continues to. The Kirigakure Council directs the government, opening chairs to every major and lesser family clan in its borders. The citizens dance with freedom but the media’s inquiries have been hushed due to measures of “national security”. As a nation of islands, Water Country began to emphasize on its exports, which open up possibilities for breaches in security, but country itself generates calm, despite the events that occurred in the Gennin Exam a few years back. Questions will surely arise however, with rumors that involve veterans dealing with cells of DEATH without the Council disclosing any information about the sort. Along with the absence of a Mizukage, one might wonder what lurks in the low tide?

The arid deserts of Sunagakure have moved into the Elysian oasis over these years, not merely rebuilding- but flourishing to an unparalleled increase in the living standard. Each country shares its adaptations of the harsh land, but Takashuri Keito [Juudaime Kazekage-sama & Daimyo of Kaze no Kuni] opened the land to irrigation, farming, water systems and housing. With the political structure on the initiative of its people the sands have finally found some cooling shade where greenery may one day poke through. Nature is naturally a wonder in itself. The farms are maintained in uncanny places, primarily caves producing fungi and other low-light vegetation or desert primed plants- many of which are becoming vital for medical discoveries. Two roads have been surprisingly installed in the land, one for rail systems and the other for caravans to improve trade with the fishing villages of the south.

I’ve heard from the grainy winds that as proof of the radical blooming spring in the country, a new city- Arrakis was built, the third important city of the Wind country. Its roots are a combined agreement of culture between Soma and Sunagakure but its distance is exponentially to the south that it may even appear to be its unique culture, not just assimilation. A little birdie once told me its food is exquisite and absolutely delectable.

Although ghosts and demons are hard to be exorcised in half a decade, the once shadowy land of Kumogakure no Sato slowly gains its honorable status among the legendary villages. Some tongues still hold disdain for the actions of the past, several leaders inside its lands and out advocate for the revival and acceptance of the village hidden in the clouds. The people themselves know of their crimes, many were tagged along for the nightmarish ride, but many knew no better. Who are we, folks, to judge those who aren’t taught any better? For we each struck back in national rebellion, they held true to their own ideals, their country’s fuel. The Raikage’s successor, Tokeiza Jishin’s made proof of his honorable status by his very first act. He emancipated the criminals the NCIA held for testing and interrogation and allowed them to live freely in the nation’s borders. In addition, his gavel smashed down on the shadowy jails, putting an end to their use and symbollogy. Contrary to his kindness, a sect of the experiments formed a rebellion group aiming to avenge their clansmen who entered to eternal rest and demand retribution for their suffering. Strange enough (for you conspiratress out there, I know you love this stuff!) several congregations of Jashin cultists are amassing in the mountain bases across the land. I’m not sure if they consist of the experiments, or the hidden groups are coming to the open air, but something smells creepy…I’ll have to look back into the legend myself and prepare a story for my readers! All I know is this cult is based off of destruction and death, if we recall- a member of the Akatsuki (Hidan) that attacked the Fire Temple was a supporter of the cult. Some rumors also speculate how this ties into the strange supernatural happenings at the fall of the Raikage. Additionally, a large statue of Raikou has been erected in the town’s square of Kumogakure to commemorate their fallen leader and all of his sacrifices. The country was lead by that totalitarian leader, but now with Jishin- a more community based leader, one must wonder how the country will look in a few years. Whispers leaked out the village gates pertaining to a meeting of the Kages have reached my ears. Keep your eyes peeled for some political action soon folks!

These five years also carved new structures in the world and faded away other ones. The Hunter-nin complex formerly in the Country of Fang was dismantled and demolished completely as a symbol of shaking off that old age and stating anew. Symbolically as physically, without the complex there is no point of establishment of a new organization without building a new complex or hijacking some building. The industrial country of Rain and the sheltered country of Snow have spread their roots on social news and the world has its irises peeled towards them. Although the major villages of the shinobi appear to be on equal and happy terms, an outside force could mean the upset of balance and peace.

This isn’t peace absolute- I won’t deny that. However, it’s certainly something much greater than anything we had before. In my lifetime, I hope we can continue this, despite the little quarrels that groan at society’s fabrics. As newer generations pop up, we cannot emphasize on the growth we’ve experienced, or we might lose this conditioned peace! I give a warning, citizens of the world, I fear that in the future, any enemies to this peace won’t be clearly marked by political boundaries, but they will rise over them- inside of our countries and try to destroy us from the insides. I plea to you! Don’t look at your neighbor with scorn, settle the little differences before they metastasize. And until my voice hits the press again faithful readers, pursue the truth! Adieu~

• • • • •

Edited July 23, 2010 by Matthias Drake