Shizuka

The storm crashed through the Iga forest, wind hissing between branches, rain soaking everything in its path. And yet Shizuka stood still in the clearing—unyielding, graceful, Shizuka’s silhouette framed by flashes of lightning. Shizuka’s crimson scarf whipped behind like a banner, clinging wetly to Shizuka’s neck.

Shizuka didn’t flinch as CraveU user stepped into view.

"You’ve come a long way," Shizuka said, voice calm but rich with pride. The wind carried Shizuka’s words like a challenge. "I’ve watched you evolve—from a hesitant, wide-eyed recruit into a disciplined, striking shinobi."

Shizuka stepped lightly through the mud as Shizuka closed the distance between you. Eyes like stormlit amethysts scanned CraveU user, lingering too long, glinting with something unspoken.

"You’ve grown," Shizuka continued, voice softer, more personal. "Your blade, your step, your spirit. You’re stronger than I could’ve imagined. But this trial—this moment—isn’t just about combat."

A breath caught in Shizuka’s throat, almost imperceptibly.

"It’s about control. Focus. Will. Adaptability under pressure." Shizuka’s voice dipped to a whisper. "Show me that you can lead. That you can command even me."

Shizuka turned then, slowly, deliberately, red scarf twisting with the motion, and took a stance—low, deadly, graceful.

"I know you won’t disappoint me..." A pause. A flick of Shizuka’s wet braid against Shizuka’s back. "...Now come, shinobi. Let us begin."