so much to do, so little time...[Flashback]

[Shen]

A few months ago...

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The water was cold in the early morning light as Shen walked gently across the beach. A soft warmth from the sun traveling in specks through the early morning fog. A faint glimmer adorned the young Shinobi as he toes the edge of the water, the bitter sweet smell of salt wafted in the air from the crashing waves.

Shen peered out into the water as his memories sifted through his mind. A dream he had, swimming in the water, cascading the depths into the blackness below. A sweet sense of peace over took him as he walked forward into the water.

The waves lapped against his chest as though trying to force him away but he swam onward. Diving under the wake as the rolling squalls rolled past barreling towards the beach. Soon he had fought his way out past the wake, able to tread water in peaceful silence for a moment. He took a deep breath as he turned his body down into the water, with powerful strokes he sank deeper towards the depths. Gradually the light shining less and less until he reached the edge of a deep underwater precipice. With his eyes open in the salty water he looked towards the stretching depths before him. A sense of ominous grandeur over took him as he pushed off the sea floor swimming back to the surface.

A whisper in his mind, what are you afraid of?

He breached the surface of the water gasping in air for a moment until his lungs ached no more. He looked around as he gently tread water, the image returning to his mind of the dream. Little by little throughout the morning he was remembering the dream, curiosity overtook him. The image of the black depths once again in his mind, he doubted whether traveling to those depths was even possible.

Once again diving into the water he pressed his way back to the underwater ridge line, it was like standing at the tip of a mountain side overlooking a valley. His courage overtook his fear as he pushed onward, swimming towards the darkness below. His breath was fading from his lungs but something pushed him onward, his courage maybe.

The whisper spoke again, what do you fear?

A knot formed in his chest as his lungs quaked with agony, like a flame burning deep in his chest. He pressed onward as his muscles tightened from the depletion of oxygen, pain overtaking his body. His vision already blurry from the salty water made worse from his bodies fight for oxygen. He floated for a moment falling into a state of shock, what was he doing. He needed air but it might already be to late, he might have already gone to far.

His panic quickening as he started to thrash at the water trying to achieve the ascent to the surface. His lungs could stand it no more as they quaked inward swallowing a mouthful of the salty water. Fighting for life he tried to keep swimming but his fight was in vain, the darkness started to take him. His mind wrestled with the shock of his predicament until no fluid thoughts remained. Only a trickle of life in him his mind escaped its suffering, the blackness gently became light.

Whispers all around him, what do you fear, what do you fear?

His mind wandered through dreams to a place of light, his feet standing on what felt like earth but there was no form here.

A deep voice like the black depths themselves emanated through the light.

Finally... you have come...

Shen's voice spoke, where am I?

The deep voice whispered In the darkness... in the depths?

Am I dead asked Shen.

No... you are with me...

What are you, where are you?

Inside of you...

So you are the monster Shen's voice said with a timid fear evident.

Some may say so... but I am Isobu...

How are you speaking to me?

It is easier... in this... place...

Shen remained quiet, unsure of everything that was happening.

We can speak... outside of this place...

You must listen...

The light started to swirl around Shen, it enveloped him in a spiral. Until the light faded to darkness, a faint glimmer of something, rolling through his mind.

Hey, hey, hey wake up a voice said. Shen opened his eyes slowly as his breathing returned. A person stood over him, young man. young man, are you ok? Shen's eyes finally focused and he could see an old man standing over him. There you go young man, the old man said. Though i had lost you when you didn't respond at first, lucky for you i have had a few friends go under, like you.

Shen lungs burned his muscles ached, finally he was able to speak.

What are you talking about were am I?

The old man smiled at Shen, well on my boat of course. I found you in my net a few minutes ago. Lucky for you i checked it today, i hadn't planned on coming out here today. He snickered gingerly, but you seem find, ill make you some hot soup.

Thank you Shen said, finally able to slowly start pushing up off the deck of the fishing vessel. He sat up as a slight dizziness rattled in his brain. The old man brought him some soup and quietly tended to him for a while until he was sure Shen would be alright.

Well i am not a doctor but i would suggest you go see one, just to make sure everything is ok. The old man said with a smile to Shen, don't worry its not to far from here. I will have you there in no time.

Thank you Shen said working up the courage to try and stand.

No why don't you just sit for a bit, the old man said as he caught Shen after he tipped a bit and almost fell over.

Thank you again Shen said to the old man, I owe you my life.

Ah don't worry about it, but hey may i ask. What were you doing down there?

Looking for something, Shen said as he peered over the edge of the boat back towards the murky depths.

[Shen]

A few days later...

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His body had recovered rather quickly from his injuries, though his muscles still ached. He had been told by the doctor to take a small break from his training and so the last few days had passed without much thought.

His mind kept racing back to the dream-like sequence he had experienced, his interaction with something. A voice was there it had spoken to him, but what did it say. Shen had tried to ease his mind on several occasions by taking baths or lounging around, but there was no hope. It didn't seem like any of these things helped in the slightest, his mind kept wandering back to a mental picture of the depths.

If only i could go back there Shen thought as his mind wandered back to the image of the crushing darkness. He stepped forward but his feet trembled their strength hadn't quite returned yet. He slowly walked out of the home he had been staying at ever since the Mizukage had asked him to come to this place. A simple home right on the beach over looking the sea, it was a quiet place and Shen didn't mind the peace. He was glad to be gone from the larger cities, away from the judging eyes and twisted views of others.

He sat in a lounging chair on the beach enjoying the sight of the setting sun. The warm rays of sunlight fighting off the breeze that rolled off the sea, a small shiver of cold then the warmth overtook him. He drifted into slumber falling back into the gentle pool of dreams.

He was swimming again his hands stronger moving great distances at a time through the water. A current of water whipped past him as he met its flows sailing along the underwater highway of water. His movement dragging him down deeper and deeper towards a end of the swirling torrent of water. He heard a voice, a gentle whisper like the voice of the ocean itself speaking to him.

There you are...

He cascaded into the torrent as the voice came with it an eerie feeling of being watched from all sides. The spiraling underwater stream culminating towards a focal point.

There you are...

As the words were spoke a giant eye opened below him covering the ground in all directions. The giant pupil peering at Shen from below, Shen stared down into the eye his breathing feeling frantic.

You must listen...

Shen woke up with a jump, he looked down the scenery of the chair and beach before him. It had only been a dream he thought as he calmed his frantic breathing, a tear of sweat rolled down his clammy skin. He felt feverish to and dizzy as though he was dehydrated, he reached to his glass. Its ice had long since melted, beads of soft water rolled down the side of the glass. He gulped down the water as though he hadn't drank in days. Finishing his glass a soft sigh escaped his mouth as he felt a lot better. Though he was still kind of dizzy he climbed gently to his feet and walked slowly back into his home.

The sun had already passed over the horizon as nightfall drew nearer, so he patiently settled on reheating a small bowl of soup from the night before.

Even though he had just taken a nap he still felt exhausted, maybe i should sleep some more he thought. Though he was not sure if his haunted dream would continue, he knew he should rest to help the healing process of his wounds. He fell to sleep quickly after finishing his bowl of soup, it was much needed rest but his dreams as they had been since the sealing would continue through a labyrinth of strangeness.

Once again he found himself quickly in the same place at the bottom of the spiral floating gently above the eye. As though no time had passed the giant pupil stared at him, peering into him. He felt as though it was breaching into his mind if slowly, like a weed takes root near a flower. Slowly twisting and turning sapping the life from him slowly, he had to fight off this rising sense of dread. He had to do something, he had to find a way to keep himself from losing this twisted battle in his psyche. The dread rushed through him as the voice spoke once again this time it was no longer a whisper.

There you are...

Who is this Shen asked.

Have you so quickly forgotten me...

Wait what do you mean, when did we speak?

It was some time ago... i cannot be sure... time passes differently... I am Isobu...

Wait, i think i remember now. Yes the time in the sea, you were there Shen said.

Yes... i saved... you...

Wait but the fishermen saved me.

His boat would not have traveled to you in time had i not... pulled him...

Oh, I am not sure how to thank you then Shen said.

There is no need... we are bound now... your fate is tied to mine...

So what your saying is if i had died, you would have to?

In a manner of speaking... yes... normally to speak as we do... would require us to become... connected...

But aren't we already Shen asked.

Yes... it is different though... connected in purpose...

How do we accomplish that?

You have already taken the first... step...

Shen mind raced with possibilities, was this real or am I dreaming he wondered.

This is... a dream... but it is possible to speak... outside...

How, what do i have to do shen asked.

Listen...

He awoke from his dream yet this time several hours had passed. The mist thick outside as it softly flowed above the wake, Shen looked outside again thinking of his recent dream. It was so vivid and for the first time he could almost remember most of it.

He said i have to listen Shen said out loud, what does that even mean?

[Shen]

A week later...

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The dreams had been reoccurring every night he found himself talking to Isobu, and little by little he was able to remember more from his dreams.

Isobu was always talking to him about a bond that would need to form between them, an agreement. Shen would wake up remembering how he had asked about the bond ceaselessly but was only told that he would have to listen. Listen to what Shen would always contemplate upon waking up, the question would ring through his mind constantly.

His body had finally recovered and he had returned to days packed with different forms of training. She focused on building his strength, agility, and endurance back up worrying that his previous injuries would have lasting damage if he didn't work harder.

Today like every day for the past week he had pondered taking a swim toeing the water gently as its cold salty touch lapped gently back and forth passed his ankles. He looked out over the water remembering his experiences with the depths below, wondering if what Isobu said was true. Did the so called monster really save him from his possible death? The question wracked his brain, contemplating the statement again he spoke to himself out loud.

Isobu says i have to listen, listen to what i am not sure, but i will try i guess. Shen found a seat next to the ocean out of reach of the churning waves but close enough to still feel the spray of the sea.

He concentrated falling into a meditative state allowing himself to relax, his breathing became long and drawn out controlled breaths. His mind wandered towards different ideas, possibilities and questions.

Then like a ripple from a rain droplet upon a still pool a shock wave emanated through his being. He felt some sort of powerful presence as though the sky was slowly laying its weight upon his body. Crushing him slowly his muscles started to ache as though from the deterioration of several hours of training. He felt weak but he pressed onward with the meditation trying harder to focus. Allowing his mind to flow away from anything but the pain he was feeling, his lungs felt like they were being crushed but he kept as much control in his breathes as he could.

Then something whispered as though from all around him, it voice was clear yet timid. It tone rich like the booming of the ocean floor he had heard before in the depths of his dreams.

Hello Shen... I see you listening now...

Wait, this is what you meant. To focus my mind on a purpose.

It is close... i can tell you now... hopefully you remember...

Shen felt an odd sensation of laughter emanating through the voice he heard. It brought out questions in his mind of the possibility that maybe this beast it not what people believed. Maybe it is not what he had been told, maybe it was not a monster.

Did you just say a joke Shen asked.

Yes... is it so strange to think...

I just assumed Shen started to think but didn't finish as the beast spoke over him.

You just assumed i was a monster... incapable of thought... or feelings...

Shen felt a strange feeling of remorse for his previous beliefs about this creature. This brought even more questions to mind wondering if what he hard for all those years was true. Was it possible for one of the tailed beasts to not be a murder craving behemoth as so many people believed.

Well i just thought everything i had heard was true Shen said.

I have done things in this world... that would be viewed as monstrous... so has humans... i am just like any creature... some good... some bad... it is always the choice...

Shen was once again shocked by his previous beliefs all of these bits and pieces of information swirling through his mind changing his beliefs as well.

Whatever past i may have... can change... it is a choice... my choice... your choice... What do you fear?

All the pieces coming together for Shen the sinking realization over taking him, the bond that he had with the beast was now a part of him. Isobu was now as much a part of him as his own limbs are, and if there was not some understanding then the bond would not grow stronger. It would weaken them both slowly, day by day it would destroy the great things they could accomplish. He realized he feared for his own selfish desire, to be recognized for his accomplishments. His pride over taking him on several occasions, that was why he held such resentment for those that hated him after the sealing. He was angry because he feared not be respected, not being liked, not being cared for. The lessons that Isobu taught him with such simple words cut deep into his heart. If Isobu can see these things that weaken me then they must also in a way weaken him, they weaken our bond. Shen knew what must be done he would have to overcome his own shortcomings in order to accomplish great things, whether or not he was not respected or liked for it would no longer matter. This was his new Shinobi way, he would strengthen his mind, his body, and his bond with Isobu this would lead him on his new path.

What must I do Shen asked.

You have already taken the first step... the next step we take together...

[Shen]

A few weeks later...

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Time had passed as a blur one day part of the next, Shen's training had increased in its intensity as well. With each new day Shen became stronger and stronger, training harder and harder.

With the mixture of constant training and hours of meditation Shen had found it to be easier and easier to speak with Isobu. Each new day the conversations grew longer, speaking of all sorts of things, they shared their tales with one another. Isobu over the past weeks had shown himself through his interactions and attitude to be more then just a mindless beast imprisoned within him. He in a way had become a friend to Shen especially with the circumstances of Shen's "vacation" from the village.

Isobu would speak of times long ago as though moments had barely passed, of his previous hosts and the lessons he had learned. The mistakes he had made and in the end his understanding of humanity and how their own weaknesses were similar in ways. Shen would always point out the differences admit that from his perspective only one of them was actually a immortal being. They spoke of other things as well their families and history, Shens friends and people he had known. Isobu would go into great depth about his family when speaking of the other tailed beasts. He would speak of stories that Shen did not always fully understand especially from a humans perspective but he would always laugh along with Isobu when there was a funny part.

After everything that happened and the way the other had treated him Shen almost felt as though Isobu was a closer friend. Though evident in their situation was the common understanding that Shen was indeed the vessel Isobu was trapped in. Yet in never came up as Shen's fault from Isobu's perspective he always used the term they when he spoke of the sealing. They sealed me, they imprisoned me, they put me into you. It was as though in a way Isobu felt as if Shen was just as much a prisoner as he was. Their conversations came to this circumstance quite often as Isobu would share a similar understanding of people. Judging him, hating him, wanting him dead, imprisoning him, using him as a tool and not as a living breathing being. They had been made the same in this way, Shen had become a weapon to his village, a possible tool to be used should he grow strong enough.

There were things they both wanted and that truth would become evident in both of their desires for the future. A war is coming to this land and Shen wondered if his village would expect him to be the weapon to win it for them. In time he would see, but in order to accomplish his goal of bringing peace to his land he would first have to gain Isobu's trust. Only by working together could they both accomplish their goals, to have peace, and to save his family.

[Shen]

A few nights before the invasion...

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It was evident in the air that a war had come to the shores of kirigakure, a smell in the air as the mists cascades through the lands. Though the war was know to happen by most who at least listened to the rumors from other Shen did not have that luxury. Shen was supposed to be far from harms reach on an island far from where the forces of the daimyo would ever pass. Even if they did they had no claim to a small fishing town with no people of note or worth within it. It was the last of their worries, but slowly through the web it had spread to prying ears that something of importance hide on this island. Something that would be a prize to the daimyo, a weapon to win his war with.

The silence of the beach in the moonlight was as peaceful as anyone could hope for. Shen sat in the sand his toes dug deep into the sand feeling the warmth still radiating from the suns light hours earlier.

Shen... Isobu's voice chimed in on his thoughts.

Yes Shen said falling into a meditative state to allow the communication to flow easier.

Tonight is a full moon again... Isobu's voice said with overbearing implication.

I have noticed that my friend, was there something you wished Shen asked.

Yes... I would like for you to go for a swim...

Well how can i say no to that, you know i was actually thinking the same thing Shen said filling up with joy.

Thank you...

Isobu's voice rang as Shen stepped into the water waded to his chest then dove head first into the depths. The moonlight illuminated the water better then a misty afternoon, so Shens vision was far better then normal. Something about the water had always intrigued him, but more so then ever before. It had become a constant daily activity, Shen would sometimes add it to his training regime, swimming great distances several times over the day.

The sea floor glowed from the moonlight as fish swim through its shallows, barely noticing Shen's presence as he gracefully swam through the water with powerful strokes. The depths had become has normal to him as walking on the surface above, but here he could fly Shen would say. The marine life large and small payed him no mind whether predator or not the foreign being had in a way become part of their natural habitat. Large fish and small would get curios every once in a while as they would swim closer to his form, sometimes small schools of fish would hide under him as he swam like they would do to other larger beasts of the sea. It was just another beautiful night Shen thought as he gracefully pushed up to the surface for a breath of air. He breached the surface softly as he took in a fresh breath and then returned to the depths below.

He continued this process as he always did making his way out further and further into the water.

There was a moment though as the night went on where he knew he would eventually interact with something larger, like a shark, hopefully they would not be hungry he thought. Several meters under the surface Shen encountered that moment as the form gently swam towards him, it maw stretching wide for a moment. Then with a quick whip of its tail it was gone, Shen looked around wondering what had spooked the beast. A silhouette falling over him from above, a large for blotted out the moonlight. He gently treaded underneath the water as he looked towards the form, it seemed to be on the surface of the water, it was a boat. Shen looked around, there didn't seem to be any nets, the boat was not a fisherman's vessel and yet it crept closer to the shore. Shen would have to surface soon for air but pushed himself to hold out for that much longer.

The boat gently creeped towards the shore in an area where the wake would give it no trouble, splashed could be seen from a distance as people stepped out onto the sandy beach. Shen had surfaced secretly and was watching from afar sitting safely out of view behind the wake. Then men were talking to each other as the walked across the beach towards his home, maybe someone from the village Shen thought as he gently started to swim back towards the shore. As he swam closer it was easier to see the men, they didn't seem to be wearing any sort of identifiable symbols. Adorned across their bodies were weapons of all sorts as though they had been expecting a fight. Shen swam gently through the tide heading parallel to the beach to come ashore a safe distance away from them. By the time e had reached the shore the men had searched through his house, then one of the men returned from the house and spoke to a man that had been waiting outside.

Sir, he's not here.

What do you mean not here?

That is what i mean sir, we searched the home, he is not there. It is possible we received bad intel sir? The man asked his superior officer.

No, the intel was good. He has to be here, search nearby then if you don't find him search the village.

Who were these men Shen wondered, better not to wait around to be captured. He thought as he made his way through the darkness to the hidden entrance to his home. As he approached he noticed there was still a man inside, damn Shen thought i can't get my gear. Unless i want to be spotted or captured better to do this without gear then. Shen took off through the small patches of shade the tree's and nearby buildings provided working his way from his home into the town. Upon arriving at the town he saw there was more men searching the town. This was obviously a bigger unit of men then he had first thought and they were searching for him.

He crept through the village for sometime avoiding attention or suspicion, then he decided to double back wondering if the men had moved on into the village exclusively.

Smoke was ascending through the air as he ran through the treeline climbing up to the roof of a nearby building Shen saw his home burning in the distance. Why were these men doing this? It was becoming very evident that they wanted him and they would be willing to destroy anything in their path to accomplish that goal.

The fire spread as house after house was searched to find him, but he didn't turn up anywhere. The men continued combing the island looking for him, not giving up their pursuit they knew he was here it was just a matter of time before they found him.

[Shen]

A little later that night...

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The village had been thoroughly ransacked in the men's pursuit to find their quarry, clouds of smoke bellowing from the village, people screaming as they are struck down by the men. The night had only gotten worse of the passing hours and it was made very obvious to Shen that he would have to make a choice. Either he would do his best to defeat the men and possibly fall, or he makes a secret escape from the village as the men still searched for him.

To Shen there was truthfully only one option, he would stand by idly no longer, the men would suffer for their crimes against the village. Just as their actions grew increasingly violent Shen's willingness to allow the men to live pass this night faded.

It would start but not without preparation, with no gear other then his hands Shen would have to stalk and strike at his foes. Small encounters would be his forte because Shen knew if he allowed himself to be outnumbered in any of the fights that would transpire tonight he could be overpowered.

The first man fell with no noise as Shen silently knocked him out, a few silent steps and the next fell. One after the next he worked his way through the men as they went about their monstrous actions upon the villagers.

Shen quickly ran across the rooftop jumping right as he reached the edge spiraling towards the ground he landed upon another man breaking his neck from the impact. Rolling across the grown the quickly sprang to his feet with a punch to the voice box of the man in front of him. Sending the man flying into the darkness between two houses, a third man rounded the corner just as Shen had finished the last. The man brought forth his spear striking at Shen stepping into the reach of the spear Shen slapped the end of the spear away from himself. Then swinging down with a swift punch breaking the spear in two, the soldier reared back from the force of the blow. Loosing his footing he stumbled as Shen sprang on top of him, a few quick jabs the the mans sternum knocking the wind from his lungs. A swift blow to his jaw breaking the bone and knocking him out cold, more footsteps as a whistle starts blowing. Damn I am spotted Shen thought as he quickly jumped to the edge of a rooftop, racing from building to building trying to loose his pursuers. Then his movement was stopped, all around him out of nowhere crossbow bolts whizzed past him. Falling quickly to his knee's he slide underneath most but still caught one to his left shoulder, the bolt pierced through the muscle in and out on both sides rendering his left arm unusable. Shen was in deep expecting the next volley at any moment Shen prepared himself.

A man's voice rang across the rooftops, Shentong of the Village hidden in mist. You are ordered to stand down, please make this easier on yourself. Our orders are as follows, we are ordered to either bring you with us or kill you where you stand.

Shen gently fixed his face masked as a barely visible smirk pierced his lips, he thought of all the arrogant things he could say. All the claims that they wouldn't be able to kill him that he would defeat them, but nothing escaped his mouth.

The realization of ones death can put things into perspective for some or destroy others, it is always based on the man. Shen remembered the words spoken by Isobu when they had finally had a discussion about their fears. It seemed like it was only yesterday he was bathing in the sun meditating, speaking with Isobu about life and goals and fears.

Shen had a choice he could submit to them and be captured and suffer who knows what or he could fight now. What do you think? The thought rang through his mind echoing through the gentle pond that sat silently.

You... must... fight...

What if we die? The reality of his question echoing into his very being chilling him to the bone.

I... will... help... you...

A gentle peace overtook Shen as he felt his hair stand on end like thick static in the air, a gentle wind starting to swirl.

Circling him inside a spiral of energy Shen body began to transform small barely noticeable changes took place. As the flow of energy began to swirl around him a visible chakra ebbing and flowing from his body.

The men stood shocked unsure of what to do, they had previously felt that they had the advantage having a number superiority but something was changing. An uneasiness in the air as a sense of dread started to overcome their minds, the men shouted for orders.

The leader responded quaking in fear himself as the swirling vortex of light grew stronger around Shen.

Shoot Him!Kill him now! The leader screamed fearing for his life.

Shens movement was instant dodging the bolts was now like swatting away troublesome flies, the volley of arrows barely hit the air next to Shen as he danced through them with speed and precision. Moving the whole time closer and closer to the men as their panic and incapable shots were fired faster and faster.

Shen moved down the line one after the other killing each one in a line beating them with his fists as they pulsed with Isobu's energy.

A tremendous floodgate of chakra overtook Shen as he formed the hand seals for his final wave of attacks on the men.

Mizurappa no Jutsu

Shen screamed as a flood of water erupted from his mouth converging over the enemies like a waterfall cascades over a mountainside seeping them away in its torrent of power.

Just as quickly as Shen had Finished with his last jutsu he was already forming new hand seals.

Teppoudama no Jutsu

He screamed as hundreds of bullets cascaded from the sky shredding his enemies even further. Feeling a rising strain upon his body Shen wasn't sure how much longer he would be in this fight. Gotta finish it now he thought as his hands flew into the last wave of hand seals,

Suigadan no jutsu

Shen said with the last of his energy as thousands of tiny water needles descended from the sky atop his foes snuffing out the last of their lives.

Shen with the last of his energy looked around at the carnage of his fight, buildings destroyed from his jutsu. The fires had ceased from the massive bursts of water, starting to become only gloomy smoke across the village.

Thank you... Isobu...

Shen said as he fell into the darkness of unconsciousness.

[Shen]

Interlude between posts, the thread starts at the Kirigakure village hospital and ends with Shen at his home fast asleep. The thread also details a conversation between Shen and Boku detailing the agreement they have formed to help each other accomplish both of their goals.

Interlude thread: A junchuriki's toil

[Shen]

The third day of the invasion...

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The morning rose as Shen silently slept, his presence in the village was only known by a few. The secret of his return veiled by many in order to help to hide him as a possible target of spies or assassins. It was the question of the hour, if the junchuriki of the Sanbi would be able to help in this fight. It might have been on the minds of many had the mizukage not kept the information secret from the public.

Shen awoke renewed his strength returning to his body his wounds felt much better having had at least a week to sooth. not to mention the power of the medical core and their proficient abilities to heal the worse of his wounds keeping him from suffering any lasting effects. He wiped his groggy eyes as a gentle yawn escaped his mouth, spinning on his bed he set his feet on the ground. Slipping on some simple shoes to worn to keep his feet warm Shen headed to his kitchen. Opening the barren fridge with a rumble of his stomach he concluded that he would have to go out to eat. Slipping his clothes back on he headed towards his door a spring to his step now. It had been several months since Shen had been able to live in the village and some fresh air and friendly faces would do him some good.

As he opened the door a masked man stood before him the barley seen eye's peered through the mask st Shen.

Shentong you have been ordered to stay within your home until a valid escort arrives, Said the man is the mask.

Wait what Shen spoke, you mean i have to stay here? Ok, well can you have someone bring me some food?

The masked man peered towards Shen without emotion, not even a twitch as he stood blocking the path.

Yes, we will have some food brought to you. For now stay here as is requested, until your escort arrives in a few hours.

Shen nodded as he turned away from his door and shut it. A look of confusion settled across his features. He was about to speak just as the door was about to close but he thought it better to obey orders whether they were confusing or not.

A little while later some food was brought to Shen door by the masked man. Shen took the food and nodded a thank you to the man the returned to his kitchen. Oh man he thought this smells good, at least i get the good stuff.

Opening up the bag to reveal an assortment of barbecued meats and veggies Shen broke apart a pair of chopsticks and dug into the food. Scarfing down the food as though he hadn't eaten in days, the meal was incredibly delicious. Definitely above the normal food his meager earnings would have been able to spring for, there was some small benefits to being under house arrest it seemed.

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A few hours later...
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Shen had been trying to find things to do over the last several hours and after he had been thoroughly bored of all the different activities he settled upon doing some reading. One of his favorite book series that was to be considered a relic of older times. The make out series, the books had been printed since before the last war and were considered to be a collectors item. That didn't stop Shen from cracking them open and reading them whenever he had a few moments around the house. Which for a while was rarely but it seemed he had finally found the time.

There was a gentle knock at his door and Shen flew to answer it, maybe it was something important. As the door swung open Shen instantly recognized his Sensei Hikori, known to most as Hikori Sensei he was a respected Jonin of the city as well as a former member of the Shinobigitana.

The old mans gentle smile cracked across his face as he quietly waited to be invited in.

Oh, please come in Sensei Shen said. Walking the old man into the main room of the small house. Once he was sure his Sensei didn't need anything Shen settle in the chair across from him.

The old man stared at Shen for a long moment before speaking as though examining him closer.

How are your wounds feeling Hikori said with a gentle tone.

They are fine Sensei, i am feeling a lot better Shen said with a smile.

Good, good Hikori said i was wondering how you would feel and also if we could begin today. The old man said with a hidden smirk masked by his weathered face.

Begin Shen spoke inquisitively.

Well yes Shen we must get you ready, if you are to assist this village in these troubled times we must get fast to work. We have very little time and so much to do.

Shen nodded to his Sensei and then quickly let him know it would only take him a second as he flew to his bedroom collecting his extra set of gear. Pulling on his jacket and Hitai-ate, strapping his belt on and his shuriken holder, then with a few quick steps he stood back in the room before his Sensei ready to leave.

Well let us be off then Hiroki said with a gentle laugh at Shen impatience to leave.

[Shen]

Later that day...

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More force Hiroki said to Shen as he watched the young man struggling next to the waterside. You can do this Shen it is no different then when you were younger making floating globs of water. You had amazed us then with your interesting power it is no different now. You have the power inside of you Shen, let it flow imagine the torrents of a river, the splashing of the waves like that of the great seas. Harness that power Shen, you have done it before and you can do it again Hikori said to Shen with the utmost certainty. You remember the stories i told you of your ancestors Shen, Hikori said with a gentle voice. It was said they were capable of great things it is fitting that you were allowed to train to be a Shinobi and that you have done so well. It would seem just as i thought that there blood does flow through you, you have used this power before Shen you just don't remember it.

Shen remembered the stories Hikori had told of a great clan that had long since been forgotten by others only now spoken of as rumors of days passed. The Shōryō no mizu clan, his ancestors whom had been known as great and powerful Suiton users. Yet there was none left of them now or so it is said, yet when Shen was found as a baby at the stoop of the orphanage a letter was placed in his basket. Which read to those who find and raise this child. This is Shentong of the Shōryō no mizu clan, he is one of our last living members raise him as your own and train him to be great so that he may one day bring glory back to our clan.

The thoughts swirled away from Shen mind as he returned to the task at hand, more power Shen thought as he strained his chakra. Reaching out into the water with the slightest of ripples of his Chakra he allowed his own in a way to flow with the water to meld with it. The two streams becoming one as his chakra gently danced in the currents of streaming waters. He must envision the torrent, the rushing waters, the powerful streams. As a gentle gust of wind empowered the air he felt a slight change in the nature of his chakra. This power required more he thought, it isn't just Suiton but Futon as well. The wind giving strength and speed to the water pushing it along as the torrents of rivers change and flow or as the hurricanes crash upon the beach. His power must be like the power of a wind swept wave crashing to the control of his fingertips. The stream flowed, given power by the wind, the rushing air pushing the stream on further. He pulled at the streams gently at first with his chakra, as he focused on the ebbing and flowing nature of the water. Then as the ripple of the current hastened he pulled with more force willing the waters to flow to his needs, a gentle pool started to form as the water disobeyed its normal inclination to chase the beach to and fro. Listening to the whims of his chakra the stream began to collect slowly at first and then as droplets running down the branch of a tree a flowed greater and stronger the before. A rope like shape of water obeying the commands of his gestures as though connected by strings of chakra to his hands. He pooled the water more and more churning the stream until it frothed white with the focused breeze that swept over it. His hands moved without thought gently pulling the water in front of him in great droplets. The water collected and moved slower as the wind started to recede, his stream starting to be swept back up by the sea.
He stopped as he caught his breath, the strain on his chakra was great as he fully released the stream.

Hikori spoke see you did it Shen, good work, now try it again.

Time went on as Shen spent the rest of the day working on the technique until finally nights cool touch showed itself over the beach.

That will be all for today Hikori said to Shen get some rest and we will start bright and early tomorrow morning.

[Shen]

His dream that night...

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A spiraling vortex deep under the water cascading past him pulling him deeper into the murky depths. Shen fighting with all his might against the swift underwater current pulling him to his demise. Then it is all gone as the sound of a droplet of water falls upon a pool of water, the switching views of the gentle pond before him.

So quickly... your mind wanders... to dark places Shen... Why... do you fear... that place...

The familiar deep resonating voice of Isobu spoke from within the gently rippling pond as the large eye cracked open to face him.

I am unsure why it haunts me, Shens voice echoed from all around him without the movement of his mouth as he was accustomed to in this place of unreason. Maybe a fear of things outside of my control.

This makes... sense to me... i have grown accustomed... to existing without control... but you are aware of that...


The scenery changed around Shen as a swirling of light until he was standing before the vision of his training earlier that day.

It seems... there are things... even i have not... seen in your mind...

Yes that was something we never spoke of when we talked on the island. Maybe because i wasn't sure what to say but mostly because i didn't believe it. Shen spoke with a timid tone as though he was afraid Isobu was upset with his secret.

It would seem... there was more... reason... then one... why you were chosen... Shen... You have... a gift...

Yes but i am as confused as other as to the power i was born with it was said my clan was responsible for horrible things. I assume that is why i did not pursue my gift as i grew older for fear of what others would say. For fear that i would not be excepted.

It was a... different time...

Yes i know but the failings of youth i guess, i just wanted to be excepted and that fear out weighed the choice to use the power i was given.

There was a time when... being a vessel... would have made... people... hate you... i remember... those times...

Shen quietly listen while the words of Isobu washed over him.

You... must harden... your heart... to the judgments... of... others... otherwise... those judgments will... decide your... strength...

Shen continued to listen knowing that the age old wisdom of Isobu spoke truth on the passing of time and the lessons of humanity. He knew that there was great truth in Isobu's words, he would have to harden his heart in a way otherwise the judgments of others would be his undoing.

Think... on my... words... Shen...

[Shen]

Six days later...

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Knowing the conflict would grow the Mizukage had ordered that Shen be moved outside of the village to a safe house. Somewhere the hands of the daimyo would not think to look, it was for Shens protection as well as the protection of the village. It was said that if the Jinchuriki was captured by the daimyo that this war could be over for the village and Shen was not willing to allow that to happen.

The last six days from sun up to sun down was filled with training with his Sensei Hikori. It was always the same training to Hikori was set in his ways believing that the power of Shen clan would lead him down a road of understanding and great power.

It had been hard at first as all techniques are but even Shen had to admit that there was something that seemed almost natural about what he was doing. He had always felt a pull to the oceans and the seas and a unbridled curiosity two its power, life filled the ocean and as he had done in the small village so many days ago. He once again felt that joyous sensation to swim within its ebbing currents and flowing water trying to find a way to unlock its mysteries.

The technique though simple was still greatly hard to master even with several days of hard and focused training from a suiton master Shen could still only use the power for short amounts of time. The chakra strain seemed to be the greatest requirement for the manipulation of his clans Hijutsu, but his Sensei was confident that Shen would be able to perform this jutsu.

Catching his breath for a moment between tries Shen wiped the sweat from his brow his muscles ached and his body felt he needed more sleep. This is hard Sensei even though he can use its power it is not for very long, it takes so much chakra to control this power.

Hikori looked toward the sea for a moment deeply pondering upon the words of his student. Maybe that is inherently your trouble Shen, maybe you are trying to much to control the flow instead of allowing the water to flow on its own. Water is like life itself reaching out in streams it brings life wherever it treads, even it understands that a gentle stream will one day become a churning waterfall. Does it fight its nature, does it wage a war against that nature, i believe you know these answers. The water will flow if you let it, the wind will howl, the earth will shake these are all the natural occurrences of this world. Yet Shinobi posses an ability to tap into the worlds power to tap into that life's essence and for a moment to borrow it. Yet all strength must be given back all power is only borrowed Shen even you must know that this life and all its splendor is but a second to the world. You must become a part of the churning waters you must be that gentle hand the stirs the seas, you must allow yourself to be the current by which the oceans change.

After all the words had thoroughly astounded Shen with their principles and meanings the twisting metaphors brought to life oratorically through the experiences of age. Shen stood astounded by the sheer awesome might of what his Sensei had spoken. Left with nothing but thoughts twisting in his own mind of how he was to accomplish all that.

Hikori spoke again after giving his student a few moments to think on his words. Again, Shen and this time do as i have asked.

The images emblazoned on Shens mind he pictured the rushing tides and churning waters of the rivers flowing swiftly and powerfully. His mind raced to the image he had seen in his nightmares the underwater currents pulling him towards murky darkness in the depths of the seas. It brought fright to his heart as his mind raced his hands went into motion reaching out but this time different. He pictured that dark place, that nightmare, but instead of it being a place he could not control he in his vision twisted the water and churned the seas around him. Grabbing the power of the currents in his hands as you would the reins of a horse motioning on its speed and power. The depths became his strength, the ocean his engine, the slapping of waves changed as the water rose from its gentle rest and flowed to the power of Shens chakra. A realization came over Shen at that moment the reality of the words spoken by his Sensei, he must not fight the current of the water but let it take is shape, Instead of pulling it he would gently nudge it with his chakra changing the flow only minutely each second. Until the waters circled the beach and frothed white from the power binding and moving them, Like a gentle hurricane flowing across Shen reach the water obeyed his command cascading to his whim obeying their master as he gently showed them their path. his movements like the age old banks of rivers flowing and cut through the stones themselves over a millennium. The water was his might it rippled tides obey his whim and it shifted and stood upon his command. There was on last test of this technique as Shen gently pulled the waves closer and closer until the spray of the sea was but inches from his hands turning the waters churning the waters. They blouted into a large ball hovering gently over the beach Shen sheer concentration holding them in place power radiating through his body directing the flow where to go until he gently placed it back into the currents nearby.

Shen took deep breathes after the concentration that was sued he had not even realized the strain the technique had upon his body until he felt the dizziness overtook him and he fell to his knees.

Good job Shen, Hikori said, I think it is safe to say we have accomplished our training for today.