From the Sidelines

Kenchi Midorigawa stood amidst the bustling crowd gathered in the grand courtyard of the Unseen University. His emerald-green hair and eyes stood out amidst the sea of onlookers, his youthful features betraying excitement and anticipation. As the ceremony for the promotion of the Wolf Squad commenced, Kenchi's gaze was fixed on the trio of ninjas being presented before the esteemed Kage, Ayato Hyuuga, the Seventh Hogokage.

Among those being promoted, Kenchi observed Youta Shinkou, a seasoned ninja with striking white hair that contrasted sharply against his dark attire. Youta's battlefield experience was evident in how he carried himself despite being only a few years older than Kenchi.  Next to Youta stood Typhon Sepsus, a member of the Canopic clan, renowned as the enigmatic "plague doctors" of the ninja world. With a reputation for their expertise in unconventional techniques and mastery over poisons, Typhon's presence added a sense of intrigue to the group. Finally, there was Ryuumi Hiyu, hailing from a lineage known for its dedication to honing physical abilities. Ryuumi stood as a testament to her people's traditions. Her disciplined demeanor and unwavering resolve spoke volumes of the training she had undergone.

"Maybe one day, I'll be up there too, earning my stripes with the Wolf Squad." " Kenchi murmured, a determined glint in his emerald eyes. "Pinned on my shoulder by the mighty Ayato himself." Despite his unassuming appearance, Ayato commanded respect and admiration from all who beheld him. His jet-black hair framed his face with piercing lavender eyes, exuding an aura of quiet authority. Dressed in the traditional black and white robes of the Kage, he stood as a symbol of power and wisdom.

As Kenchi observed his fellow comrades-in-arms, a fire ignited within him. He promised himself that he would catch up soon and ascend to the rank of Chuunin. His attire was simple, his gear essential—he had no prestigious bloodline to boast of, nor did he wield any advanced elemental techniques. He was as ordinary as they came, but he was determined to defy expectations.

Once the ceremony concluded, Kenchi wasted no time setting his plans into motion. He would start by taking on a few low-rank missions, honing his skills, and proving his worth. But he knew that to make a name for himself genuinely, he needed something more - an opportunity to shine on a grand stage.

Reflecting on the recent conflicts that had shaped the ninja world, Kenchi couldn't help but feel a pang of regret for missing out on the action. Hoshi's victories in the Fifth Ninja War, the Hoshimura Rebellion, and the liberation of Kirigakure had catapulted many ninjas to fame and glory. But Kenichi had been just a boy in Tsukiakari at the time, far from the frontlines.

However, amidst his musings, a glimmer of hope emerged. Rumors of an upcoming tournament began to circulate among the ninja community. Kenchi's heart leaped with excitement. Perhaps this was the chance he had been waiting for - an opportunity to prove himself on the battlefield of honor. 

With his heart pounding and determination coursing through his veins, Kenchi stood amidst the crowd, envisioning his future painted in vibrant hues of ambition and possibility.

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WC: 533
Note: This is an observation post from the "Small Pack of Wolves" topic, documenting the ongoing events. Kenchi is situated within the crowd surrounding the campus.`

Joro woke up this fine morning with a mix of emotions. He looked to see Stout resting above him in his hammock. He rolled over out of bed, checking his watch, seven o'clock, a little later than usual. But that's okay, Joro didn't need to be anywhere pressing till later in the day. He walked over to his small kitchen and started heating some water. He got out a mug and some honey. As he waited for the tea to heat up, he did a few things around the apartment. He went outside to see what was happening on this breezy morning in Hoshigakure. He had been invited along with his fellow ninjas to a ceremony for a couple of Genin making Chunin. He knew one of them, Youta Shinkou he called himself. They had done a mission or two together as well as they had spent some time in a tea shop a while ago. He turned to see Stout had hopped down from his hammock to Joro's bed.

He looked at him with a smirk, "Hey buddy, how are you doing this morning? Sleep alright?"

The stoat turned and looked at him with soft eyes as Joro sat down beside him. He nuzzled his face on Joro's arm as they sat together with the morning air filtering in and out of the apartment. It seemed to Joro that Stout was doing well. He worried about him switching homes and all. He didn't know how he would adjust, especially considering Joro lived in such a small apartment. But he seemed to be doing just fine. He did make an escape tunnel for him, which he used quite often. He still thought about his meeting with Mikey. He wondered many things about him, he mostly wondered if he would ever see Mikey again. Joro poured his tea, sipping on it as he enjoyed the morning with Stout. When he was done with his tea, he told Stout to explore, Joro would call him when they were to leave for the ceremony. He quickly hopped in the shower and got ready, he shaved and did a couple of other things to look presentable. Especially as the Hogokage would be there as well as the Nova. Joro hoped one day he could reach that level of power and respect. Not just for his reasons, but also to help protect this wonderful land he called home. He was all ready to go, as he headed out, he looked up into the trees to see Stout hurrying around.

"Hey man, let's go we're gonna be late if we don't hurry," he said with a smile.

As Stout scampered down the tree, he jumped onto Joro's shoulder.

"Hold on, we'll be there in a second," he said to the Stoat.

He weaved a few hand signs and tapped his forehead and woosh. They were off and were just at the right spot for the ceremony. As he appeared he almost ran into a woman passing by.

"Oh shoot, so sorry, you alright?"

"Yes, fine don't worry about it,"

"You sure?"

"Yes"

"Okay, you have a good day!"

He made sure Stout was still on his shoulders, as he sat down to watch the ceremony. Beside him was a green-haired individual,

"Interesting," Joro thought, wondering who he was.

"Hi, I'm Joro, lovely morning right?" he said extending his hand and offering a shake if he wished to.

WC:571

Zatoichi overheard Ayato discussing some ceremony that morning. When he left his room for breakfast, he spotted Ayato clad in his distinguished Kage robes.

"Hmmm?" Zatoichi pondered to himself, intrigued. As Ayato prepared to depart with two of his Nova Corps, he glanced at Zatoichi, his expression soft yet firm, reminiscent of a parent's warning. With just one word, "behave," Ayato conveyed authority and expectation. Recognizing Ayato as the man who took him in when he was three, Zatoichi respected his command.

"Yes, sir," Zatoichi affirmed, meeting Ayato's gaze. With that, Ayato and the Nova Corps exited the house, leaving Zatoichi to hastily grab a piece of toast before darting to the attic to prepare.

Joining the crowd as they headed to the ceremony, Zatoichi soon spotted a familiar face: Joro. "Sup Jo?" he greeted, settling beside his newfound friend. Despite Joro being older, Zatoichi found him pretty cool.

"So, what's happening?" Zatoichi inquired, curious about Ayato's ceremonious attire.

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