Masquerade--

[Ravage Nocturne]

Watching Nevan slowly recalled memories. Hadn't he too been a feral animal? When he crashed, he had nearly lost his mind until Madara had found him. Even then, the guttural growls escaping his throat were animalistic, and not human. How hypocritical, for him to judge Nevan's emotional state. Biting his lip, he finds himself contemplating the matter. No...even until shortly he had been insane. He had been carelessly setting ablaze Iwagakure, with no remorse at all. And then, something happened, and Nevan was the catalyst.

Nevan made him human, then.

Feeling guilt bubbling inside of him, he clucks his tongue at the ironic picture that had been painted, and sighs. Yes, he could not so easily lose faith in his brother. For only a while ago, he himself had become human again. Glancing towards the lad, he feels more calm now, and smiles. Yes, he would make a fine heir to the throne.

He would revert him to humanity, now.

But, catching wind of the unmistakable sound of a well landed punch, he turns to see Syaoran crashing into Nevan's jaw.

And then he felt that familiar hatred.

Growling with ferocity, Shinaki snaps outwards and moves towards Syaoran, only to be restrained by the ANBU guarding him. It was a passionate, purposeful movement, and was clearly correlated to the striking of his brother. Eyes narrow and eyebrows knit together, he clenches his teeth as he is drawn back, and begins to breathe heavily. Trying to shake off the ANBU, he does it to no avail; he was drained of energy, and for good reason. The Kinjutsu he had performed with so much ease had been one with a high cost. Glaring towards the ANBU that laid their hands on his flesh so fondly, he sends a quick current of electricity through his body, creating a high voltage zap to their bodies.

"Don't fucking touch me."

He states, regaining composure as he takes a more relaxed position, signaling no further intention to rebel.

Edited January 2, 2007 by Ravage Nocturne

[Exodus]

M

erciless.

He fell with a smile; the corruption still veined through his blood flow and he knew just what was to come. He spat a rough coagulation of red liquid from his mouth and cursed Syaoran in an impossible to hear tenor. He had hit him, and for some reason it did not strike home as he had first thought it would; it was to be expected he thought. A brilliant sheen of hair masked the true expression that Nevan had suffered from the discomfiting strike. The blind thickheaded Alchem still continued to speak, the mentioning of friends, family and those that he cared for; none of it mattered to Nevan because the fact was, each and every one of them had betrayed him. What did it matter if deserters lived or die? Yes, deserted; they had all deserted him, left him alone in the darkness to suffer at the simple will of the one named Hikado.

The men that surrounded Shinaki had all crumbled and Nevan witnessed the simplicity from his peripheries but reacted in an irrelevant taste. Instead, he stood to his full height without further ado and faced up to his sightless friend once more. Syaoran continued to make mistakes and continued to overlook the complications of it all; he assumed far too often and persisted to lean into the fact that, perhaps Nevan was a traitor?

"You're a fool old friend. You think… I could've stopped this?”

The realization must've hit then, there was no other possible elucidation to the situation. The same sentence put it all into plain view and not even sheer pigheadedness could excuse a lack of comprehension. This was a war that did not stress importance on just the Uchiha; this was a battle of Hikado and Madara, two men who had crossed paths in the past, where one sought to rectify the truth. Nevan was nothing more than a vessel returning home.

"How could you blame fault on me?! Are you delirious? Open your fucking eyes, this is more than just us, this is more than just people; this is a war of Gods, we have no say! You of all people need to get your head out of your ass and recognize this, not even you could've stopped this from happening Alchem, not even you.”

He looked up into the sky, and at that moment, the clouds parted ways and the moonlight reflected into his eyes. Deep down it pained him how this had turned out, it haunted him throughout his entire voyage, but he knew he could not be blamed for this. It was impossible to avert this catastrophe, this misfortune, but as all men of wise understood; this was war. A war afar from this day and age, something that continued inside of each man, woman and child; a struggle for peace of mind. He returned focus to the diehard Asher, and then to Syaoran with a trickle of blood still cascading down his flawless skin.

"It was either, return to the place that abandoned me, or be murdered without an answer. What would you have done, friend?”

[cntrstrk14]

Syaoran looked at Nevan with disgust. He had expected to much of him, thought he was better than this. He had dragged his own spirit down and had lost any resemblance to the noble fighter Syaoran knew. As the three ANBU guards fell Syaoran took due note, he was prepared for the Uchiha to make a move, but had not expected something so simple to push all the ANBU back. He was right in that assumption.

Behind him the Uchiha would feel two cold fingers press behind the small of his back as the fourth member of the ANBU squad, a noted badge and marking across his robes to symbolize him as the squad leader. His pale white dog mask, two vivid red scars reaching across the two eyes, was only visible for a moment as he whispered the jutsu.

"Kanashibari no Jutsu”

(Body Freeze Skill)

The Uchiha's stance became a still life as any natural movement gave way to a statue pose. The fourth member of the squad had stayed at a range observing, and had moved in when it had seemed that there would be a problem. Though the original attack had only been one to make the ANBU back off, it was a show of offense, and even the slightest had made them move.

"Don't give me this cut and dry shit. All you had to do was convince him to lure Hikado out, or get him a message to come and fight outside the village. You could have simply let off a Jutsu Formula and we would have engaged you guys out in the open. You WANTED this, you made no effort to even think of a possibility, to even reach out for help. You always have more than two options. If it was a choice between my life or that of a single civilian I would have given my life without hesitation. Ninja of their village live to protect those that they care for. I thought you were strong enough to realize that, but I was wrong. You are a coward, and you are weak. You let your revenge for Hikado override your senses to the point that you would stab your own friends in the back just to get back at him.”

Syaoran was calm now, his words distinct and chosen, he still stood toe to toe with Nevan.

"There are no such things as Gods, only power starved fools, pointing their strength at the world in an attempt to leave a mark.”

[Exodus]

The tension intensified and an explosion of senselessness overwhelmed the two. Nevan had never wasted such time on another, and this was just pushing it. He understood that with those futile words of ridicule and contempt, the man decided to act like a child instead, a child lost in the world of heroics. His exemplar, his role model; he mortified himself with such self-indulgent speeches, Nevan shook his head in skepticism; complete disbelief. He exploited the conversation and found that, the Alchem was without his common sense and spoke through passion and pain just as he did before. An irritated heave of breath released itself from the miserable Uchiha as his decision to waste more words came to pass.

• • • •

"All you had to do was convince him to lure Hikado out, or get him a message to come and fight outside the village."

"Madara is not someone who reasons; he is a nightmare and has planned this settling of scores before me. Hikado did not just insult him, no; he offended an entire nation. A nation that sought his blood. There was no convincing, especially after what I saw."

"You could have simply let off a Jutsu Formula and we would have engaged you guys out in the open. You WANTED this, you made no effort to even think of a possibility, to even reach out for help. You always have more than two options."

And despite that biased conclusion that was implied; that I wanted this and made no effort to send for help? Well, you're right about one thing and thing only. There was no effort to send for help; Hikado forbid the contact and assistance of any of his men, there was to be none who knew, but knowing your heroic antics, you would've came regardless and then have Madara hand you a silver platter with your brainless head on it. He sent me alone, and alone to Hell was his destination, he knew what he was doing.

• • • •

Uchiha Nevan stood firm and with little expression to be seen; just how it was back then. He never wavered and spoke the truth of mind; ridicule was just a charade that was wasted, Syaoran knew this but persisted nonetheless. It was entertaining however, how the two had captured time for themselves and that life seemed to be in their own hands. These two were pinnacles of two different stories, both incompatible with another but each with their own morale. What happened next didn't matter, because this illumination of truth would draw out to the very end despite the consequences and the sheer ignorance that was shown.

"But still, you stand against the very same thing you have sworn you protect; Your friend."

He meant it, but the stain of the past interfered with their next decision. Nevan knew Hikado was a lost cause at a moment like this, and his senses had been renewed. The animalistic savageness hallowed and buried itself for now. There was no such manner to avoid the fact that he was somewhat responsible for this mess, but whether he could prevent it or not was something that no man could understand. What was done was done. Even memories of the old team had unearthed and the recollections of what Nevan had seen in the ball of fortune; watching as Hikari wished him death before he could even reason. Perhaps this is what Syaoran looked for too?

"Let's stop this nonsense; what happens next?”

[cntrstrk14]

“What happens next?”

Syaoran felt confused. Nothing was resolved, he still did not know where Nevan stood, and the older Uchiha on the sidelines became more of a threat with each passing moment, his chakra slowly regaining over time. Syaoran could not maintain this for long, he needed to subdue both of these men before anything happened to further endanger the village.

“You two are going to give me a non-conditional surrender, I will detain you and you will be under arrest until this mess can be sorted out. I do not know who to believe, and this seems like a much better deal than any we have given to the rest of your army.”

Syaoran said, making a sweeping gesture and the corpses riddling the arena and surroundings. He was making himself very clear. The two had come in as the enemy, and it would not be a show of words that would get him to turn back to their side so quickly. The ANBU around the other Uchiha kept him under their bind, his chakra reservoir still low, but that would not last long. As if reading his mind the man in front of the Uchiha, with the large bear mask on made a series of seals and reached out, grabbing the forehead of the immobilized Uchiha.

Chakra Kyuushuu

(Energy Absorbtion)

His remaining chakra would be filtered out until he could be properly detained. Syaoran still kept Nevan in front of him, speaking directly to him and no one else.

“Now lift out your arms so I can seal them apart.”

[Exodus]

D

eath

S

entence

Nevan acknowledged the command with a simple nod. He extended both of his arms and said nothing more. His submit was definite when he lowered his face and once more, that magnificent mane of hair curtained his true expression. It was a depraved illustration that these witnesses would miss; a final remorseful tear had shed at that moment but even more unforeseen was the sadistic smile that accompanied. His plans had come to a cease; he would not be able to find the rest as he wished too, just to arbitrate their reaction and wonder if their allegiance to him had also turned to rot. His love was still out there alone, and Nevan wouldn't be able to rest until he discovered her true condition. But all of this was but another secret locked into the impossible mind of a mastermind who had almost seen it all.

"Kia.."

[Ravage Nocturne]

Luminescent and iridescent in the evening light, his eyes blaze with a furious passion. Uchiha Shinaki stands still with an unnatural presence and awkward stance before his enemies. His nervous system temporarily halted, any and all muscle function was prohibited due to the lack of neurons firing. Although it was only a momentary fix, his bindings proved formidable to one of his current fatigue. Lips contorting into a grimace, he shuts his eyes tight as he feels the palm of yet another hand grasping at his flesh. Today was a rare one indeed, that so many unprivileged limbs should touch his person without suffering some penalty. Casting a glance towards his brother, he retracts any thought of fortune involving his tale, and hangs his head low. He had heard only bits and pieces of his past, but already he had proven himself a stalwart warrior. Having the gall to rise against the death that surely awaited him and to revoke his rights and allegiance to this place, he sought to carry out the justice that he had not received. Shaking his head slowly, he feels the tightness of his muscles retaliating against even this. Gritting his teeth together, Shinaki begins to feel the pain of defeat. Their leader had fallen so...easily it seemed. And although the tugging at the back of his mind insisted that Madara did live, there was no current sign of such a fact. If this were the case, both he and Nevan were the last remaining Uchiha that he knew of. Other than his deceased parents, he had not noted any other community like the Uchiha once held, and for good reasons.

Good genetics were hard to come by.

Cutting his gaze towards Syaoran, he summons some unknown energy and begins to move his lips. As though he were struggling with the simplicity of the motion, he furrows his brows as he speaks.

"We have done no wrong to you outside of any a General would in war. Release me, and offer us less constrictive movement, such that we may cooperate with a more relaxed conscience."

He wasn't against having ANBU surrounding him, and certainly wouldn't object to having his limbs fastened together, but this was ridiculous. He saw no need in the oppression he faced, and felt his pride suffer for some unknown reasoning. The senseless humiliation in having already drained him of his remaining Chakra was enough, let alone being bound with some pathetic jutsu. He craved to walk alongside his brother, and to be granted the freedom of speech and typical movement without having to summon his innermost energies to do so. He wanted to promise Nevan that he would relinquish his bonds, and save him, but he was not foolish. Unless by some miraculous display of favor, the gods would not grant him another opportunity to escape. Frowning, he simply nods.

"You can expect our full cooperation. The Uchiha Clan is not one of deceit, as much as you'd love to believe it."

Maybe sometimes it was alright to walk the path fate spreads before you...only for a little while.

Edited January 3, 2007 by Ravage Nocturne

[cntrstrk14]

Syaoran's face was one of stone, no emotion could be seen on it despite his outbreak of tears earlier. He lifted a single obsidian stone from his belt and raised it between the spread arms of Nevan. With a flash of gold and blue light the stone extended out and wrapped around his arms. Solidifying it into a inch thick block of steel that separated the wrists of Nevan by a good foot, Syaoran lowered his hands and walked over to the other Uchiha as he spoke to him. His movements were flawless and robotic, as if carrying out the duties set before him without a thought. It was obvious that he did not want to cage up his friend like this, but it was a must. This other man though, he had no problem killing, but they may find his information useful later on.

"I know that Uchiha, it is the reason why I have not killed you yet. You will get your chance to walk.”

Completing the same sequence of events as two of the ANBU guards held up the arms of the older Uchiha, Syaoran locked his hands in steel. Stepping back as he nodded to the first ANBU to release his draining grip, Syaoran spoke once again.

"Now, what is your name, Uchiha?”

The bond binding would wear off in a few moment's, though the ANBU would be ready to perform the jutsu again if necessary. They would not take any chances with two of such a historic blood.

[Ravage Nocturne]

A wave of disgust slithered through his body as he feels his muscles loosen, and with a quick glance to reaffirm the ANBU's distancing himself, he relaxes himself accordingly. There was something repugnant about this situation, being held hostage by the pathetic ANBU squadron and this Alchem. Had he faced the team of ANBU exclusive of Syaoran, he was sure that he would have bathed in their blood. Sadly, events unfolded in a far different manner, and left him prone to arrest. Still, it was nice to be alive. Although a killing intent swam through his head, and the Mangekyou whispered dark words of violence and hostility, there was a certain charm to this Syaoran fellow. He had been cherished by Nevan at some point, meaning that there was some common ground between them, and that a fondness of one another brought them together in the tightest of situations. On this ground, he offered some slight form of respect in regards to the Alchem, despite his personal feelings. Yes, he could sense that on the inside, his intentions were good, but it was this kind of heroics that left him nervous. There has never been a hero that didn't crash hard. Even so, their current predicament left him wary of the man, and considered fully obliging to the demands.

In this case, rebellion would have him killed.

Straightening his posture, he wiggles his wrists to gauge the resistance of the strange bindings. Constrictive but not to the point of aggravation, he offers an impressed expression at the structure, and considers the blue and gold Chakra. It was similar to the kind that Syaoran had released during their combat. Was this a personal creation of his? Breathing in slowly, he floods his lungs with oxygen, and relishes the feeling. While under the affliction of the Ninjutsu, his lungs could only grace minimal amounts of air, leaving him craving for breath despite his efforts. Lifting his arms to brush aside a particular bang from his eyes, he exhales fully. Even in this circumstance, he felt rather safe so long as he abided by the practical and reasonable obligations of a prisoner of war. Still, there was a conundrum to consider. When he had revealed his name as his dear and departed friend "Asher", Nevan's eyes had brightened considerably. There was some clear connection between the two. Pronouncing his name as such may be revealed as a lie, if the Alchem indulged in some mind-invasive technique, and could prove to form friction between the two brothers. Still, were he to admit his true name, Nevan would be just as devastated.

But then, he was Uchiha Asher now. Reincarnated, perhaps.

"My name is Uchiha Asher."

He states slowly and clearly, his voice devoid of emotion. His face flaccid and vapid, only on occasion his eyes drift to catch movement at some other location, only to snap back to the one who had addressed him. The warmness of the soul that the Alchem possessed was both intriguing as it was strange. On some level, he had the idealistic beliefs of his father, and on another, the compassion of his mother. What a strange and awkward breed of person. Completely vulnerable to the dark realities of this world, and susceptible to the cruel hand of the gods. Such agnosticism would only condemn him. Still, he felt friendly even under these conditions.

Would he have been a friend, had they met under different affairs?

[cntrstrk14]

Syaoran's mind clicked, the wheels geared around, switched directions and processed this lie to its fullest extent. Why would he lie under such circumstances, what was his true motive in this name and its use? It was possible that his real name was Asher, but that likeliness was near under 1% probability. If he understood the Uchiha enough, two family members of such close age would not be named after each other, it would hurt their pride to remove that individuality. But that was all speculation, and he would push this as it were a lie. Turning his full attention to the Uchiha, whom he refused to call, even in his head, by the name of Asher, he asked the question again, slowly.

"What is your REAL name?”

[Ravage Nocturne]

His expression wavering not in the least, he glances back towards Syaoran after having taken a moment to appreciate the evening twilight. He was on dangerous ground now, and he sensed it. Although it was mere speculation, he had sensed some esoteric reaction within the Alchem; one that suggested the impossible. There was no way that Asher had survived the war with Kumo, so why was he pushing the inquiry so strongly? Without hand seals, there was no likelihood of his mind having been searched with such intense speed and efficiency, so the only conclusion that he could draw as that the Alchem had heard of Asher. This was most definitely bad. Tempted to allow his mind to wander at just how the friend who had laid bleeding out in his arms managed to escape fate and live on, he shakes his head and focuses on the matter at hand.

Somehow, his friend had at least lived to meet this man.

Sighing lightly, he shoots a sympathetic look towards Nevan. He knew that his brother would never forgive him, since he was about to disrupt any real connection that they had shared. It was time to end the charade, it appeared. Closing his eyes, he paints a relaxed visage over his apprehensive and troubled one.

"Uchiha Shinaki."

He imagined that he would have plenty time at some later date to explain the reasoning behind his false identity, and since now was neither the time nor the place, he felt little devotion to continuing. Still, even if Nevan wouldn't show it, he already began to consider the position of the lad. So many lies in one day...would this be the one to top it all off? Had he in his own unintentional way achieved the fantastic feat of being the last of those he held dear to betray him. Shinaki didn't know, and there was obvious remorse in the tough front that he was quick to put up.

Another bridge burned.

[cntrstrk14]

Syaoran’s speculation had been right, and after being caught in a lie once the man had no reason to lie a second time. The look and reaction of the man left Syaoran with no reason to believe he was lying. Letting out a smile, he would not reveal how he knew the man had lied, but he would use this to his advantage. The man had some connection to Asher, he needed to find out what though.

“Shinaki then.”

Syaoran said, without further question Syaoran motioned for the ANBU man to leader the group. Three ANBU around Shinaki, one behind him ready to subdue if necessary, and Syaoran in the back where he could see the two of them. They would begin to walk inside the arena, down towards the ground level.

[Exodus]

L

ies.

Nevans' irises glazed over and went dull. The breath was sucked from his esophagus and cut loose from his withering soul. He felt numb, frozen for what he could not define. His lips touched and moved to form words, but the air had vanished. A piece of him died right here beneath him and he could not understand how. Nevan could not hold his expression; he could not hide behind his mask any longer. Another lie, another sacrifice; Nevan was prone to this life and his cold heart had been stomped on in a brilliant finale. There was no conspicuous reaction however, he just continued onward, dragging his feet against the place he once called home, shackled in complete humiliation.

The depression hurt so much, he just wanted to tell someone he was sorry, for something, for anything; but he couldn't. His mouth became dysfunctional and he found himself mute. What did he do to deserve such hatred and falsehood from all that he once cherished? The Sharingan itself had even left him for the first time since his arrival. Tears slid down his face but matted against his disproportioned strands of hair; none would see him weep. The pack moved down the Arena at a slow mournful pace and headed towards the point of conclusion. Nevan would die for his sins and Hikado would achieve his spoils of war; the extinction of Uchiha it seemed. On the other hand, Nevan lacked the state of mind to even be concerned.

The doors of trust slammed such, and friendships had become lost to him in a split second. Albeit, he came here to save the one last person who had placed faith in him; Syaoran, those words of spite had crushed him more than Nevan led him to believe. Execution was his only answer now, and he hoped for the pain to end, this was the only way; he was trash and a dishonor to all that he had lived for. And so, the final stand came to an end and judgment would come to pass. He murmured a whisper inside of his demented and moreover broken mind, a whisper that could bring him salvation;

"Kill me.."

[cntrstrk14]

Syaoran seemingly ignored the hushed words that slipped Nevan's lips. His face was like stone, but the phrase had cut him deep. His old friend had been pushed so far as to wish for death now, it was obviously something beyond what they had spoken about, that had not broken him. Coming out of the arena Syaoran approached one of the four corners of the array. Reaching up to his ear he tapped the receiver and spoke into it.

"Are the forces subdued within the arena.”

"-”

"Ok, I am taking the barrier down for a moment, it will be back up within 5 seconds.”

Walking in front of the small convoy Syaoran put his hand against the ground and raise it up. The same blue and gold light formed and with his hand rose a square pillar, on the front was an engraving in gold of the Iwagakure no Sato symbol. The small group nodded and the wall fell like a stage curtain cut loose. Walking past the squad, keeping an eye on them Syaoran nodded to the group and the seals were made. The wall rose back up, sealing all those inside once again.

"Lower the wall if Hikado requests, but ask him a question beforehand to confirm his identity. Something about the resistance should do.”

Walking beyond it Syaoran let the ANBU lead the convoy through the village, keeping to the back as he did before. They walked only a few blocks before getting to a large facility, though it looked small from the outside. There were multiple Yuki ninja being dragged in, unconscious, bound, etc. They were all taken into this facility while Iwa guards remained outside.

Once inside Syaoran would keep them in their bindings and put them each in their own cell, next to each other. The rooms were concreted wall, though there seemed to be an odd suppressant, as if it was hard to mold chakra, or even breathe within the room. The doors were steel, with a small hole near the top that you could see through. There were no windows in either room, and they had walked down multiple staircases to get to the rooms, so it was assumed they were far underground. Guards stood duty at either end of the far hall, not moving from their stations or responding to any call, nor stopping inmates from talking.

[Ravage Nocturne]

The dampness of the cell was irritating, as was the suffocating darkness. There existed some phenomena that suppressed his internal energies, and to that end effectively disrupted his Chakra Flow by some extent. Breathing through his nostrils, Shinaki detects the unmistakable scent of urine, unwashed skin, and possibly decay. Flexing the muscles in his forearms, he once more tests the mettle of the his bonds, and clucks his tongue at their durability. Although normally the process of deconstruction would be a small feat, the Chakra suppression limited his abilities. It was a simple event, outside of such a place; breaking down steel, it was mostly composed of elements from the Earth and from remnants of flames. Having immaculate dominance over the first, he would simply draw out the properties of the elemental with magnetic splendor as he incorporated the soil. Sadly, this cell was not conducive to such research and procedure, and this disheartened the young man. All of this was a game, and the victor was determined by the one who could maintain the requisite level of sanity and concentration in the end. Focus on the latent potential of the situation, and don't allow circumstance to consume. It was the philosophy of watching the future, and it was one that he could easily adapt.

After all, with nothing but time now, what else could he do?

There was a method to his thinking, and he figured that since he was capable of even the slightest manipulation of Chakra, that it was not a fully functional system that dampened his Tenketsu. Closing his eyes, he breathes in slowly...deeply. Surging the miraculous energy from his Inner Coils System, he feels the heat building up inside of him, sweat pooling around the features of his face. The familiar sizzling and popping catches his attention, but only a frown comes from his discovery. With so much vigor, he had only produced a mere spark. A flash of his Chakra interacting with the environment. If he would ever gather the strength to wield his Chakra in this place, it take time and lots of practice. Sighing heavily, he throws his back against the wall, shivering as the wetness crawls through the fibers of his shirt, and tickles his skin. Just where had he gone wrong? Contemplating the issue, he considers his allowing himself to be talked into this entire thing. None of this was his business, nor his problem. And yet, here he stood. Victim to some cruel fate shared with the brother that by now cursed his very name. Sliding down to the floor, he draws his knees up to his chest, and rests his arms atop them. How inconvenient.

Shutting his eyes tight, he begins to understand the concept of absolute darkness. Forcing Chakra behind his eyes, he maintains a sense of vigilant devotion as he fights against the suppression, tightening the muscles in his jaw, and clenching his teeth tightly together. Opening his eyes quickly, he views the world in shades of red. Crimson and whirling ever so slowly, the capricious Sharingan takes form as triplicate perfection, tomoe gliding clockwise with effortless grace and motion. So, he was capable of activating his precious doujutsu, so long as he had a few moments of time. An interesting thing of note, and perhaps one that could aide his situation. Glancing once towards the wall that separated him from Nevan, he considers rapping his knuckles against it, and explaining his side of the story. Stopping himself mid-movement, he feels his arms go limp, and drops his gaze to the bleakness of the floor.

He didn't deserve contact with him yet.

Wasn't he the fool, though? All this time, he had been deceiving the lad, and despite best intentions, ended up hurting him the most. Where he was to be the savior, he played against his brother. Shifting into a more comfortable positioning, he takes comfort in his spinning inheritance, only if for a brief moment in time. He truly did have an affinity for the thing, and this provoked a cruel smile on his face. No one could take away this strength, and no one would likewise know it. Sitting within the prison, his features are shadowed with the lack of light, save for the angry, spinning device in his eyes. Scarlet and luminescent, it remains a visible and distinct mark of defiance. A sure means for future amplification and defeat. No walls could hold him, and no suppression could still his beating heart. However, this must remain a secret, and to this end, he closes his eyes one last time, allowing the Sharingan to fade to indigo. Over time, his practicing with Chakra molding would strengthen him. He would become more and more adept at it under these oppressing environments, and find a means of crafting his most powerful Ninjutsu. Soon, he would have as much strength as he did at any time. But all of this took rest, and secrecy. There could be no obvious display of talent, and he would have to mask his energies. Feigning weaknesses and illness, perhaps. Shifting his gaze to the wall once more, he sighs heavily. If only...Nevan would talk to him. Prove that he believed he existed still, despite his identity no longer being that which he had originally claimed. If only. For Uchiha Pride was one that could never be caged.

He would escape this place. For now, he would wait.

[Exodus]

T

he

B

oy

N

o

P

rison

C

ould

H

old. --

"Wherever it leads you, it will be a dream. The very idea of going beyond the dream is illusory. Why go anywhere? Just realize that you are dreaming a dream you call the world, and stop looking for ways out. The dream is not your problem. Your problem is that you like one part of the dream and not another. When you have seen the dream as a dream, you have done all that needs be done."

"I see.."

His mind had come to peace. Perhaps an epiphanous flight of imagination had unearthed his aesthetic sense but this was the conclusion that was drawn. At last, an authentic breath released itself from his spirit and he felt whole. The silence was an important factor in his life; one that remedied the complexities of the world it seemed. There was a flawless semblance of heartlessness that Nevan loved to demonstrate in his time of hurt; this callous behavior abolished that same pain and buried it beneath the folds of indifference. He was a man who had almost felt it all, the others would never understand as their masks of heroism and duplication boosted just who they were; thickheaded impostors, but there was time for them. On the other hand, these specific circumstances were a problem that needed to be quelled soon.

He dismissed the Uchiha on the side parallel to him and removed all consideration for him. He chose to reveal his true self to the Alchem but under no hesitation, hid himself from Nevan. It was despicable to the point where explanation would bore him to death. There were others in these multifarious cells; others that also received the same sentiment. Once again, he had to think for himself and himself alone, which seemed to turn out for the best in these trying times. However, the situation was in the hands of one who fought against him and chose to imprison his friend for common ideals; he controlled the actions and controlled the future of each man inside these cells. Nevan would do nothing and await judgment as he predicted nothing less from the very start.

[cntrstrk14]

The large metal door to the cell of Shinaki slid open with a violent clattering. In the doorway was the Alchem, Nothing on his person but a short dagger tied securely to his side. Walking across the room, the door sliding shut behind him and two ANBU standing on guard, either side of the door. Placing his hand gently on the backside of a chair he drags it from its place next to the door and lets it come to rest a couple feet across from the sitting man. Straddling the chair Syaoran sits himself down on it and leans on the back, looking the man over.

“I am sure you know why I am here, Shinaki.”

Syaoran says, his voice calm and clear. The statement was an introduction to what would be the course of their discussion. Not moving from his spot he continues onward.

“Who are you? Why are you with Madara? How did you make contact with him? What are your intentions and his?”

The questions fired off one after another, and though they were rapidly set out, like kunai, Syaoran expected every single one of them responded too. His comfortable seating and demeanor said it clearly.

[Ravage Nocturne]

There was a sickening blend of scents descending around his cell. Perhaps it crawled through the cracks of the door in the form of some smog, or maybe it was the remnants of some previous inmate. From what he could make out of it, urine, excretion, and unclean flesh; they certainly stood out from the rest of the vile concoction. With every breath, his nostrils are met with a stinging sensation, causing headaches over and over again. Sliding the palm of one hand to his forehead, he compresses his temple, trying to relieve the pressure. Opening one eye to examine the intruder, Shinaki raises an eyebrow in speculation. The light from the hallway was foreign and unappreciated, forcing him to squint as he tries to register the one that stood before him. Upon recognizing the frame of the young man, he closes it promptly. His breathing was both shallow and frail, his chest rising only on occasion. Bathed within the darkness that represented his foul imprisonment, his movements were veiled with unnatural shadow, despite the simplicity of them. Pushing himself off his side, he rises to a sitting position, and leans forwards. Listening to the inquiries of the Alchem, he relaxes his posture.

He certainly asked all the wrong questions, didn't he?

Refraining from speaking in response to his first statement, he leans against the wall of his prison, and relishes the coldness of the stone. Previously, he had been feeling overheated; perhaps the onset of a fever. He was in no condition to fall prone to sickness, however, as he had much to do with little time. Still, it helped portray an image of weakness; one that would play a dire role in this magnificent game of his. Brushing his dry tongue across cracked lips, he tries to dampen them by some degree with the saliva that wasn't there. Water and other such luxuries certainly went without proper appreciation, that much was sure. He had only been here for some time, but already he was beginning to miss the easier life. Curling his arms around his chest, he shakes his head slowly as he prepares to answer Syaoran, one question at a time.

"I am Uchiha Shinaki, as you well know by now. I had for reasons you need not know to take on a new name as I was reborn as a new being. My close friend whom I had assumed perished in my arms during the Kumo war came to mind. So I took on the name of Asher, and ever since then have responded to it."

He states quietly, his voice but a whisper in this dark place. Shifting his gaze towards the roof, he sighs lightly. Yes, but the real million dollar question was how did Asher survive in the first place? Were they speaking of the one and the same, his Uchiha cousin, or perhaps was this all just coincidence. In any case, he understood that now was not his turn to ask questions, so he would save that one for a later date.

"Madara is the father of all Uchiha. He had happened upon me, and offered to train me in the ways of our blood. He saved me from a state of self destruction, and morphed me into who you see today. Acting as a paternal figure in my life, he replaced my deceased father, and began to teach me the ways of this world. We shared some connection, but nothing of the sort that you would consider Father-Son. He is the catalyst that promotes evolution. As for making contact with him, it was quite the other way around. While venturing into the West, we crossed paths at some point. After an initial display of force, he seemed intrigued with me, and persuaded me to follow him. Even today, I have no regrets for doing so."

Yes, but wasn't Uchiha Madara the true king? He had been in the process of raising two heirs; the princes of the Uchiha Clan. Both himself and Nevan. All of that seemed trivial now, however, and for a moment he felt a burning sensation in the corners of his eyes. Fidgeting with his bonds, he snorts at their resisting his attempt to scratch his neck, and finally surrenders the entire motion altogether. Shaking his head, he shrugs his shoulders while promoting indifference.

"Despite my accompanying him and Nevan, I knew nothing of his past nor Nevan's until the two of you spoke. He commanded my allegiance, and I gave it. I owed nothing to Iwagakure, and was convinced that by some manner, Hikado is a traitor. Believe what you will, as will I. I believe he fully intended to finally kill Hikado due to some friction they share. As for myself, I intend to do exactly what you assume. Getting out of here one way or another, and traveling to the Country of Fang. Some of us don't get caught up in public affairs, and remember the core reason any of this has happened. I still have a job to do."

Closing his eyes, he lays down on the ground once again.

"If you have more questions, come back later. I need rest."

[cntrstrk14]

Ignoring his demand to come again later Syaoran stayed sitting in his chair, his eyes fixed on the Uchiha’s figure, taking in his entire air. Syaoran wished to extract as much information from Shinaki as he could, and he was far from done in this interrogation. His mind played the small bit of information he had over in his head.

‘Going to Fang? So he is in good terms with the NCIA?’

The thought played in his head for a moment before Syaoran decided to continue his questionnaire. His voice the same tone as it had been before, his posture still comfortable as he sat on the chair facing the man.

“What is your relation to your home village of Konohagakure no Sato, what were you even doing in the Wild West? You expect me to believe that three Uchiha, a dying breed in itself, are all able to be found in the same place, in the middle of such a forsaken land as the west? What was your real purpose in going out that far, if you claim you had no knowledge of Madara?”

[Ravage Nocturne]

Fighting back the instinctive urge to awaken his triplicate Sharingan, he represses any feelings of hostility towards the Alchem, fully aware that his gentle disposition was quite frankly why he still drew breath. Still, the audacity of the young man drove him to spite and careless delusions involving his death. Gnawing his lip gently, he seriously considers rushing the Alchem. While under the laws of this Chakra suppression system, if he was quick and severe enough, he could more likely than not overpower the Alchem with silence and efficiency. Admittedly, he was no master of the realm of Taijutsu, but he was quick on his feet and sported lethal precision. A quick strike to the throat, and catching the body. Yes, wouldn't that be a fanciful dream? Sighing, he nods his head. Growing tired of this interrogation, the Uchiha sneers towards the general direction of Syaoran. How thick headed must this Alchem be, to be so incapable of drawing the conclusions? Fate, whether he believed in it or not, had governed his path, and led him to his blood. The Uchiha Clan shared a bond unlike any other, and because of this, their presence was well known. Bloodline inheritance, in this sense, acting as a mark of distinguishing feature amongst brethren. Shifting himself into a more comfortable position, he stares hard at the image of the young man. Still, how inconvenient, that he was not half as wise as originally believed. If his complete cooperation and excessive obedience wouldn't explain this all to him, perhaps it was time to unmask the true soul of the Uchiha, and to speak his mind.

"Is the General of Iwagakure honestly this dense? What do you think my relation is with Konohagakure no Sato? I was born and raised there, as is any true blood Uchiha. Do I detect some confusion in that voice of yours? Do you seriously believe that my reasoning for entering the cursed land of Fang is for some pleasurable business? If this is the case you surely do not deserve a title of wisdom. You are as foolish and blind as an infant. I have no traitorous blood in me, unlike you. I find it ironic that someone of your nature, that is to say, a man whose heart loves Iwagakure no Sato more than anything else, would have a hand in harming her the most."

Allowing this to sink in momentarily, he takes a shallow breath before continuing.

"I plan to crumble the empire, once and for all. Not because I believe that what they are doing is wrong, but because I believe that I can. Perhaps I am the only one of several who have the courage to finally move to finish this worthless war."

Swallowing the fire in his throat, he begins to calm down. How hypocritical, that he would assume him a traitor. Breathing more deeply now, he summons the energy to take a standing position. Dragging his fingernails down the length of his cell, he feels the friction breaking small shards of his nails, and cringes. These stones, despite their slippery status, were a formidable barrier. Facing the opposite direction of the Alchem, he makes sure to maintain a neutral position, and one of vulnerability. Avoiding any quick or unnatural motion could only serve him well in the end, and so he trusted himself to hold a tight grip on his self control, and to stifle his temper.

"I'll explain this once more, Syaoran."

Although the idea of addressing him with informality was not one that he was comfortable with, his aim was to push the message so deep into his mind, that he wouldn't inquire about the same thing twice.

"Some event that I cannot recall had left me without faith in humanity, much less in life. Trying to escape such a world, I fled to the West, hoping to avoid any and all human contact. I had once heard as a child that the West was untamed land, and that there was no chance of bumping into a country, or some village. This is why I went in that particular direction. I began to train myself to take my mind off of everything, and swore that the time I left this land, I would be another person. Stronger, smarter, and more adaptable, I would leave the West as a new being. Uchiha Asher, the one I loved as a brother, and wished to be. My idol, I would finally become."

His voice taking on a more gentle and quiet tone as he reaches the end of his initial statement, he pauses to choke down a deep breath. No time for reflection, he had to remain vigilant.

"Upon finishing the majority of my training, I began to travel further Westward. I was dehydrated and fatigued. I-I don't quite understand my reasoning now, but at that time it felt right. I was more animalistic than human, and happened upon a convoy led by Madara. I was seen initially as a threat, and was ordered to be eliminated by Uchiha Nevan. He underestimated me, and even in my weakened and fragile state, I overpowered him. Something about that caught the attention of Madara, and he invited me along with him, promising to teach me everything I needed to know. Call it crazy chance or fate, I can't honesty tell you that I had planned to meet him. In fact, I hated him for a good long time. I have no reason to deceive on this matter."

He says as he sits back down, his legs tiring quickly from the previous posture. He was undernourished and ill. Finding it an appropriate time to remind Syaoran of the terms of post war tradition, he drops his elbows atop his knees, and plants each palm beneath his chin.

"Just what is it that you think I am concealing from you? I am simply a General in the defeated, opposing force. There are no secrets to entail further acts of terrorism against this Country, except for my following orders. If you wish to condemn me on this basis, then you betray your ancestors, and the politics of this age."

Having established his opinion, he opens his eyes and stares at the Alchem.

"Or is this all part of the 'hero' business?"

[cntrstrk14]

A thin grin spreads across Syaoran's face. The man had done exactly as he had wanted. Pushing these questions on he had revealed more about his inner psyche than he probably meant to. He felt that he was above others, though not everyone, his shot on Syaoran's intelligence said so. His idea of approaching Kumo alone was also a laughable plan, and whether he was serious or not it had shown another side of his mentality. Syaoran slowly took apart the man in front of him, understood him. His ideals to become more like Asher showed his weak confidence in his own persona. Not his skills, but his own essence. He did not draw strength for or by himself, though he worked along. His true strength seemed to come from him memories of others, namely Asher. He played the anti-hero character, but at the same time took the actions of the hero. Trying to escape with Nevan, pleading for his life, his ideals to alone take down Kumo, and his last shot at Syaoran there, all pointed to the true Shinaki. Unaffected by the remark of Syaoran hurting Iwa, or the shots at his hero act, Syaoran continued on with the smile wiped across his face. He had taken all of this into consideration and dismissed it, he would not show Shinaki any reaction to anything he said back.

"Why does Yuki attack Iwa? What was it that Hikado did to aggravate the small village into an assault against one of the five great nations?”

The longer he thought Syaoran an idiot the better.

[DragonOfAnger]

Leaping through the war-torn city, Iwakagure no Sato, a young Kunoichi strives to impede the enemy. With a Chuunin she flies past these ruined buildings, structures failing all around her. Fires blazed and corpses morbidly decorated the scene. Any normal person would loose their stomach to such a site.

But then again, ninja are not exactly normal.

"Hey, does this not seam odd to you?” Nanase called to the Chuunin she had been trailing, their destination the same- the arena.

"It does. We have encountered no resistance from the enemy up to this point.”

"Is it already over?”

"I have a feeling it continues, but the lessened numbers have concentrated themselves into the Arena.”

As the two were passing the academy, the trek came to a halt.

"What the hell is that?” Nanase was astounded. She had seen no such thing before. A large purple cube enclosed the Arena.

"That is Shishienjin.”

"Four Violet Flames Battle Encampment?”

"Yes, it is a barrier Jutsu. We will not be able to pass it or penetrate it. It can hold forever, there is no stopping it from outside. So reinforcements of either army will not arrive.”

"Son of a-” Nanase stopped. A noise could be heard below them.

The Chuunin motioned for Nanase to head down first.

Sliding down the roof, launching off the edge Nanase stared with full intent. Was this friend or foe?

Landing with the utmost grace, Nanase scanned the area, but to no avail, she saw no one…

The Chuunin landed with a thud. Scanning the area as well.

CRASH

The two switched their attention to the left immediately. A trash can had fallen, and out of it, a small white and brown spotted cat.

"Well we look stupid, huh?” Nanase said. "You there?” The Chuunin stared at the cat.

"You've seen through it?” the cat spoke.

Her face contorted in shock Nanase nearly jumped into the air, "What the hell?!”

"My illusion that is…” The cat disappeared into a cloud of white smoke and re-appeared as a kneeling Iwakagure Gennin. He was short, maybe about twelve years old. His brown hair gave a shaggy look to his head, his clothes slightly torn perhaps from today's battles. Stains of blood covered this spot and that…

"Genjutsu!” Nanase hated Genjutsu, she could nether use nor easily spot it…

"Your illusion was well done, however you did not properly mimic the mannerisms of a cat. Had even I not been paying the utmost of attention you would have gone unspotted.” The Chuunin turned to Nanase, "Those are the things you should pay attention to, or you will end up as one of the corpses that line the walls of these buildings.”

"Ah…” Nanase felt like her pride as a ninja was just stabbed through its heart. Quickly changing the topic at hand, "Why were you hiding?”

"I heard talking and having depleted most of my chakra fighting against the enemy I would not stand a chance against more. Being unsure of your allegiance I could not act until I knew you were Iwakagure no Sato Ninja.”

Bending down the Chuunin held out a small brown pill in his left hand. "Take this, it is a solider pill. It will revitalize you.”

"How many of those things do you have?” Nanase held up an eyebrow.

"A true Shin obi is always prepared.” Nanase again felt like her pride as a ninja was just stabbed through its heart. This man seamed to do that a lot.

"Thank you, my name is Dariusz” The Gennin stood up and dusted himself off.

"I am Nanase. Pleasure to meet you.” Nanase offered out her hand for a friendly shake.

"Now is not the time for an introduction. Come.” The Chuunin rocketed up the walls and over the buildings, his destination was clear. They would head to the Arena again.

"He is scary…” the gennin stated as Nanase was jumping up to get back to the roof.

They headed for the arena at top speeds.

"Hey check it out!” The barrier was dropping…

"Is this a good thing?” Nanase questioned.

"I wonder…” the words from the mouth of the Chuunin trailed off at that…

With an eye twitch Nanase said under her breath "What kind of answer is ‘I wonder'?”

Less than thirty seconds from when the barrier fell, it rose once again, in all its glory… or in Nanase's eyes, in all its spite… How could she help the village if she could not get to the fight?

"Looks like we still will not be able to get inside after all…” The Chuunin stated.

The three kept on their course. Even if they could not get in the battle, being there was almost as vital as being involved in the fight. Although Nanase did not think so. She had thought simply being there without fighting was useless. Why be there, if one was capable of nothing, or causing no change to the outcome. What good is it to be a witness to the fight without partaking?

Arriving at their destination, the group had been prepared to fight. However, there were none to fight in fact; they could not even get into the possible fights inside the arena. Nanase felt useless, like she should have just stayed in the hospital bed…

"So what exactly is this barrier?” Dariusz had questioned the Chuunin and Nanase.

"That is Shishienjin.”

"Four Violet Flames Battle Encampment?” Dariusz mimicked Nanase's earlier response.

Nanase narrowed her eyes at the barrier. Bending over she grabbed a small rock. Hurling it at the barrier for a test she saw the barrier's potential…

Crack! Fizzle!

The rock was hurled back, engulfed in purple flames. "So… How do we get through that?”

"You know, I do not know.”

The Gennin stared him directly in the eyes. "You do not even have a clue?”

"Nope”

"What good are you?” Nanase fell backwards onto the ground. This was it, the final battle in Iwakagure no Sato. Yet, she was unable to partake.

Dariusz sat down next to her. "So… What happens next?”

"I assume, we wait.” Nanase could not get over the horrible feeling of being useless…

"I am going to check all the other sides of this barrier, I will be back. I want you two to stay here” The Chuunin stated and took off…

Ten minutes passed of pure silence

"So Ms. Nanase-”

"You can call me Nanase.”

"Ah, so, Nanase, have you ever killed before?” Dariusz looked toward her.

"Yes, many times, it is what shin obi do after all. Why do you ask?”

"I killed my first person today and well-”

"Please, you need not get all sappy on me, I already understand what you are going through.” She looked at Dariusz, his eyes watering, ready to burst like a dam. "Everyone feels like that at first. Anyone who does not reminds me of quite the monster. In time, killing becomes easier and easier. Do not worry, as long as it is for the proper reasons, not without meaning, killing is not a horrid affair.” She sighed and looked at the clouds as they passed overhead. "Trust me, this pain you feel, this remorse, it will pass in time.”

Dariusz had been overwhelmed by her words at first, expecting a different answer. "I am kind of unsure at weather it is a good thing or a bad thing that killing becomes easier.”

Nanase stood up, dusted herself off and sighed. "That, is up to you”

((1250 words. Damn that barrier! Damn it I say!))

[Ravage Nocturne]

The stench of the cell was beginning to get to Shinaki, as he brings the palm of one hand to his forehead. In times of such technical advancement and the greatest minds, it befuddled him how people could manage such unsanitary and loathsome prisons. Granted, criminals weren't entitled to luxury, but they also shouldn't be so easily pawned off to disease and starvation. Flexing his wrists once more, he further tests his restraints. The friction from the steel had slowly been carving a gash into his flesh, but he figured that it would be worth it. Having learned a little trick while in the Academy, while being restrained, he had taken a deep breath and flexed his muscles as much as possible. The end result was a less constrictive pair of hand cuffs. Sadly, it proved worthless, as even now, they did not promote nearly enough flexibility as he had originally hoped. Hanging his head, he listens to the next question, and offers an inquisitive expression. Fully perplexed, he begins to detect an interesting yet subtle tone in his voice. It was not unlike the kind his Father would use while vaguely referring to something other than his statement. An odd concept, it was surely taken in effect at this point in time, and called for contemplation.

The estranged smile that crawled upon the alabaster face of the Alchem was unsettling and troublesome. Surely this interrogation session was beneath that of a typical shinobi with expertise in this area, but had he stumbled upon some great answer through these questions? Brushing aside a handful of bangs, Shinaki considers the mannerisms of the young man. Perhaps this was a duel of the minds; he seemed more interested in something beyond the answers to the questions he kept asking. Was he trying to evaluate his persona, or was he literally just pleased with his success? It was such a burden, trying to sort so many things out at once. There was some sort of facade that the Alchem was intent on veiling himself with, and he would soon find the answers that lay behind it. If there was some point to all of this, beyond the simplicity of gaining the answers to his questions, was it not for a loss? Was he bargaining for revealing some dark secret that he hid, or did he believe that he would gain some level of insight by pushing questions on him?

How foolish, to consider that any of this at all could define who he was now.

"You seem to ask many questions to the wrong person. If you have sight, let you see that you speak to someone other than Madara. I cannot account for his reasoning nor his history, as I have just as much Intel on the matter as you. Everything prior to this, has either been common knowledge, or vague guess work. Whatever it is, exactly, that you wish to learn, ask it outright, and give me the courtesy of a rival General. Don't treat me like the rubbish of some traitor."

He was tiring of this game. If Syaoran wished to believe that in some way he had managed to gain an upper hand in terms of intelligence, let it be so. If he planned on delving deep within the inner workings of what made him an Uchiha, let him. He would never encompass the true meaning of the heritage, and he would never be able to comprehend the depth that surrounded his soul. Let him press, and let him find defeat. Anything he could retrieve from his mind, Shinaki could do without. He had been well trained in the art of withholding valued information, and was no stranger to torture. There was quite literally very little that the Alchem could do to get him to talk about anything of real importance, or to grope about in his mind, searching for some answer to some worthless question. He was an Uchiha, and this made him invincible. Though his life may one day fade and pass, his blood would live on forever and ever. The isotope that would birth the evolution of this world, and define the strengths of his name and country. The genetics that slithered through his veins were those of greatest legend that would always have an impact on this world. Clan Uchiha, the mighty, would always adapt and live on.

And he could not steal that fact from him. So how could he ever lose faith?

[cntrstrk14]

Syaoran leaned back in his chair, an expression of faked, mocking surprise in his eyes. In a voice not of his own he quoted.

"‘Hikado did not just insult him, no; he offended an entire nation. A nation that sought his blood. There was no convincing, especially after what I saw.'… Nevan said these words, am I to believe that he saw something you did not? If so, you are right. I am talking to the wrong man."

Syaoran's studied mind had served him well, the phrase had stuck with him and he would push to find out what the reason for this whole incident was. The Uchiha talked as if there was some narrator, and everyone knew exactly what was going on. The truth was that Syaoran and all of Iwa only know that an Uchiha had a vendetta against Hikado, and that he was somehow a traitor, or so says the man who just laid havoc to the village and killed the innocent. Syaoran searched for an answer, a truth to Nevan's change of heart, and the true nature of Hikado, through those that would raise arms again him. The workings of this Uchiha had only intrigued him, the mind games he came in playing had started to take effect. The Uchiha took more time to answer now, he thought about what he was saying. There were better ways to get information than physical torture.

"So what DO you know of Yukigakure no Sato then? You must have been there, can your little brain even remember the color of the buildings?”

The mocking tone in his voice, the ridged placement of his body on the chair, and the grin. It all played to insult the entrapped Uchiha. Syaoran mentally prepared himself if the man bull rushed him, he would ready up a defensive strategy that would keep him at bay for the precious seconds as the ANBU rushed the room, both of them Taijutsu experts, which was to be expected given the stone they worked with.

[Ravage Nocturne]

Digesting the quote, Shinaki finds it foreign and new. Whether or not it had come directly in that format from Nevan's lips, he couldn't be sure. Whatever point it had been said -had it been at all- he must have had his attention on something else; his own business, for sure. There had been talk about Madara's history with Hikado, but he tended to tune out whenever a topic not involving him came up. If it was so important that he should be informed, he imagined that Madara would have taken him aside and explained it. No, Madara understood exactly what Shinaki was. A tool, a weapon, and a General. He was his own blood, and in some manner was his son. He would do as he was told, obediently and without questioning it. This is why he had not been spoken to about things as irrelevant as intentions. No, this was all Madara's past, not his own. He respected the privacy that the man held, and therefore, felt rather pleased that he could not answer.

"Does it surprise you that Nevan would see something I could not? If Madara trusted some information to him, he had his reasons for doing so. Otherwise, it could be that my attention span for such things dwindles. I would assume that you could relate, Alchem. If it is not my business, why should I indulge?"

He states slowly, his voice even and strong. This entire session had been invigorating for the Uchiha. Because he could feign sickness with such ease, he was able to reserve his strengths and gather his thoughts. Slowly but surely, he was expelling Chakra from his Tenketsu in attempt to override the suppression system. Yes, but wouldn't the Alchem envy the sight that the Sharingan could have lended him? Poor him, that he would never know that he thrived on such conversation. By talking at such length, he was given the opportunity to expound on his research without suspicion, and also could lead him to believe that he was being deprived of energy, due to his treatment.

How wonderful, this.

Another question, another reason to accept just what torture could be considered. Incessant inquiries coming from such a flaccid, boring person. All of those qualities that he had previously exhibited, gaining respect from Shinaki, seemed to fade at this time. How disappointing; he would have preferred the passionate reactions and the honesty. It seemed so typical of a shinobi to depart from his true self, simply because he needed information. If only they could realize that by being themselves, they could coerce more out of a prisoner than by playing the tough act. Oh well. Yet another thing he would jot down in the back of his mind, saving the tid bit for a later date. Twitching at the comment so easily made, he begins to wonder just how much courage it took to press the buttons of a tiger while restrained? It felt vaguely similar to children pestering a dog on a leash, staying just out of its reach. They always felt so proud of themselves, until that leash broke, and the dog was released. He couldn't help but feel less than offended. He was trying to get a reaction out of him, wasn't he? Poking at him, in attempts to reveal something...for some reason. But there was no anger, no spite, and no dread that bled into his soul. Just serene tranquility. And yet, something caught his attention. Had he just been insulted in a childish manner? Washed with mirth, he settles back against the wetness of the prison wall.

So he was running out of ammunition.

Darkness swept aside momentarily by the Alchem's change of posture, small rays of light caress the bottom of the Uchiha's face, revealing a cruel and malicious smile. Crawling full length, his jaw tightens as the ivory smile pierces the darkness, becoming the only visible and distinct aspect of the young man. Embodied by shadow, it offered a terrible contrast to the realm in which he lived, his other features invisible within the shade. Whether he was reliant upon his ability to rattle the chains of the Uchiha, or simply was testing his mettle, it mattered little. This surprising change in tactic proved to be a natural weakness, and shined through the veil that he had been trying so desperately to unmask. He was slowly drawing Shinaki into his own mind, without even realizing it. If there was anything to discover, he certainly would.

If.

Syaoran seemed like a normal lad, outside of his position right now. He reminded Shinaki of those idealistic hero types that go out of their way for some objectives that they believe are 'right' instead of what they feel is 'correct'. He wasn't a bad person, no. He was just ignorant, and narcissistic. Both qualities that landed him in a less than impressive scope of perspective. Still, Shinaki had the feeling that this session was coming to a close, and for that he was relieved.

"I do recall quite a bit of snow, actually."

He states, that wicked smile lingering on the face of the Uchiha. Loop and loop. What goes around, comes around. They would soon be switching places, unless the Alchem broke this off. This was going to turn into some real fun, soon.

Sometimes, fate just throws you all the right answers.