Meeting the dragons! [P]

The boy opened the large gates, walking inside a small chamber. This one was "one", so was this the weakest dragon? Set up around the chamber were torches attached to the walls. Whatever was lurking here loved the heat because it was extremely hot. Kaito began sweating as soon he stepped in. "Oh man, it's so hot in here." A shadow quickly passed by his side, moving quick enough to evade the boy's gaze. He looked around for the creature, trying to find who his first summon would be. A large shadow then projected itself on the wall, appearing to be of dragon-like figure and shape. "Who goes there!?" An intimidating voice, as deep as the dragon king's called out from around a pillar. The boy stood there, sweating bullets. "I am Kaito! Kaito Uchiha. I've come to meet the first dragon!" He stood completely still, remaining silent. The shadow on the wall grew closer, but as it did, whoever was projecting it grew smaller. "An Uchiha? So you're the one who signed the contract!?"

Stepping from behind the pillar was a small red dragon. He walked over to Kaito to examine him closely. "Hey man! I'm Mushu! I'm the first dragon! You actually look cool! So this was the dragon that Kaito would summon first? Interesting. "You seem okay yourself. It's a pleasure to meet you Mushu." Kaito'd smile, shaking the small dragon's hands. "So what exactly do I have to do from here on out?" The boy would need some information, or direction, pertaining to how he'd be able to meet the other dragons. Hopefully he'd have his question answered. "Oh! Well, that's easy! You just open the next door over there! You'll meet the next dragon! I warn you though! You have to play one of his games in order to befriend him and gain his trust! You've got to be fast." Mushu'd grin and point in the direction of the large gate. "Good look man!" 

With a nod he'd take his leave, walking towards the large door with the "Two" Romanji. The next dragon awaited inside the next chamber. What game would he present to the Uchiha? 

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TWC = 361 
250/250 Summoning: Mushu
111/750 Summoning: Momonosuke

The next door was opened. Temperature levels suddenly decreased to a more standard temperature, about seventy-five degrees. This was very refreshing to the boy. Way better than what he was in just now. "Finally, some refreshing air." He wiped the sweat off of his face and walked deeper into the chamber, looking around for the next dragon. This chamber was much different in terms of structure and build. There was much more room in here and it looked like a dome. Nimbus clouds floated around in the room, which was very odd. Kaito would stop in the center of the platform and look up the clouds, trying to figure out how these clouds were formed and maintained. "You don't see that every day." The boy smirked, turning away from the white clouds. He walked aimlessly throughout the dome in search of the dragon. There seemed to be nothing in there with him; it looked empty, besides the clouds. Where was this dragon? 

"Are you looking for me???" A voice from above drew Kaito's attention. Did that happen to be the dragon that Kaito was searching for? "Who's there? Are you the dragon?" A pink head peeked over one of the clouds, looking directly at the Uchiha. By the looks of it he was definitely a dragon. "Shouldn't I be asking you that!? Anyways, yes, I am the dragon you were searching for! My name's Momonosuke!" The pink dragon would float over the cloud, descending to Kaito's level. "What are you doing here anyways?" Surely this dragon must have also been informed of Kaito. Why would he be asking this question? Was he playing stupid or something? "You know exactly why I'm here. I have come because I seek help. I must meet all the dragons before I consider asking for the dragon king's assistance and guidance." Momonosuke would grin, understanding very well that Kaito needed him to continue onto the next dragon. "I see. So you need my help? In that case, I'll help you out! There's just one thing you have to do!" 

This must have been the game that Mushu had told Kaito about. Would he have to play it in order to gain Momonosuke's trust? Most likely. "It's a game isn't it?" The dragon comedically gasped, wide eyed and all, "Whoa! How'd you know? Don't tell me that Mushu told you! Man, he's always ruining things." The dragon would pout, "Whatever! Yes! It's a game! You're going to have to find me! Up in the clouds I go!" Just like that the dragon shot straight into the clouds above. Soon the clouds would lower onto the main floor, covering the entire dome in a thick cloud. Kaito's visability was greatly reduced because of this. How would he be able to find him? "So you're using the clouds to your advantage? Great strategy! But I can get you!" 

Even though his eyes could not see through the cloud cover, he had his Sharingan. The boy'd activate his three-tomoe, hoping to see the dragon's chakra signature. Bad idea! Everything around Kaito was Momonosuke's chakra. 'He created these clouds using his chakra? Man, this guy is smart.' Kaito was going to have to depend on another form of finding this dragon if he was going to win this game. "You're pretty good Momonosuke!" 

---------------
TWC = (361 + 553 = 914)
(111 + 553 = 664)
664/750 Summon: Momonosuke

What would Kaito do now? With his visibility stripped, how would he be able to locate the dragon? The Uchiha stood in the cloud, surrounding everywhere by the white gas. He could hear the giggles coming from Momonosuke as he flew around. The dragon was beginning to toy with him and Kaito didn't like it one bit. What would he do in situation like this? If an enemy used the Hidden Mist technique, for example. How would he be able to locate whoever was using the technique? Kaito'd have to work on that when he got the chance. For now he'd have to improvise! "What's the matter Kaito? Can't catch me? Hehe. Of course you can't me. How silly am I? You cannot even see me!" The dragon chuckled as he flew around the dome. Kaito not see one single thing. Instead of even trying he'd wait it out and think of some kind of strategy. With his vision out of the question what else could he use? Hearing? Maybe, but it was a little hard hearing out for a flying dragon. He could hear him when spoke though. That momentarily gave away the dragon's position. "Hmmm."

Kaito rubbed his chin, his eyes looking around in the cloud. "What's the matter!? You give up!? Haha. This was too easy! You'll probably end up becoming a crab-man if you fail! Do you know that?" The boy smirked, finally understanding what to do. "Of course not. You're just too scared to face me like a true dragon. You play too much, unlike your kin, who take matters more seriously." The dragon stopped in mid-air, catching every single word. And as expected, grew a little angry. "What did you say?" Trap set. Prey caught. Momonosuke had been lured right into Kaito's hand now. The boy slowly walked in the direction from which the dragon spoke. "You heard exactly what I said Momonosuke. You are afraid of facing me face to face. You're not a dragon. You're a lizard who can fly and make some clouds." The dragon's fuse had been lit. He'd hear no more of this, "You think I'm a scaredy cat!? I'll show you!" The dragon smelled the boy out and flew towards him, growling as he did. Kaito kept his ears open for anything that he could hear; and as Momonosuke grew closer that growling was registered. Kaito would know exactly how far the dragon was from him. "Gotcha!" 

He could finally see the shadow in front of him. In a quick fashion he'd turn his body, watching the dragon fly by him. As he did he'd reach out and grab a hold of him, with both arms wrapped around the serpentine body. The dragon was caught! "Oh man! You tricked me into coming out! You got me!" Momonosuke would hang his head in disappointment. The Uchiha would let him go, smiling. Even though this was a trial, he thought it was fun. It was good to know that there were some fun dragons. "I sure did. That means I beat you in your game." Kaito'd cross his arms, watching the dragon lift his head up to him. "You did. You did. I'm not going to be a sore loser. You may now proceed to the next door. The next dragon is Haku! He's pretty cool!!" Kaito nodded and walked away from Momonosuke, heading the next door, labeled: "Three." 

"Hey Kaito! Maybe we can play again next time okay?" The Uchiha would stop and turn his head, "Yeah! Anytime Momonosuke! Thanks for the fun!" He'd turn around and continue to the door, pushing it open. Momonosuke didn't have the slightest doubt that Kaito'd become one of them. The dragon believed in the boy and would now root for him. 

--------------
TWC = (914 + 629 = 1543)
(654 + 629 = 1283)
750/750 Summon: Momonosuke
533/1000 Summon: Haku

The third door was of a light blue color, with the icy blue "Three" encripted on the surface in Romanji. Opening the door, Kaito saw his breathe as he exhaled. Another change in the environment. First was a super heated room, then a cool dome filled with clouds and now there was this, a cold chamber resembling the inside of a glacier. There weren't any torches, unlike the other chambers. In the center he was able to see a white dragon, larger than the other two, coiled up. It appeared to be dormant. "Hello!" The yell echoed throughout the chamber, awakening the sleeping beast. It opened one of its eyes and locked onto the Uchiha, who was at the entrance. Without moving its mouth the dragon sent a message to Kaito using telepathy. "You must be the Uchiha who wishes to use the power of the dragon. I admire your wit, to be able to get pass Momonosuke's little game is quite an accomplishment." Kaito was thrown off for a second from the use of the telepathic ability. That was something he'd never experienced before in his life. These dragons were something else. "I must admit, there was some difficulty in outsmarting the dragon at first, but I was eventually able to get it done." 

The dragon known stood up, revealing his size to the boy. Yeah, this one was much bigger than the previous two. "I am aware that Momonosuke has already told you of my name, but I wish to introduce myself. I am Haku, the dragon of the third chamber. I'm sure you can see what element I deal with based on the chamber." Kaito nodded, looking around at the ice. "Yes, you seem to deal with ice." The dragon nodded once and closed his eyes, "Come forth Kaito." Kaito listened to his direction and walked down the icy pathway. When he reach the dragon he'd stand about three meters from Haku, waiting for any further direction. "You have nothing to prove to me. I already understand that you are a shinobi of high skill. I personally do not have any problem allowing you to use me. It'd be quite beneficial to have you join us." The Uchiha smiled, it was rare to see a dragon compliment a shinobi and notice their skill. It showed Kaito how much of an impact he'd have by joining these dragons. 

"I must thank you for those words Haku. I'm greatful to have you not only as a summon, but a friend." Haku managed to show a smile, even with the snout he had. They wouldn't only be friends, but family. They'd be of the same blood soon. "That means a lot Kaito, but we should get to the important stuff. You do not have much time. After my chamber there are three more. The fourth chamber holds Kurohime, the "Black Princess." Be careful with her, she may try to devour you. I'd advise using your Sharingan to control her and show her your power. After her is Shenron, one of my favorites. Shenron is wise and will not give you trouble, but you must prove to him what you learned through us. Then the final gate shall send you into Ryujin's realm." Kaito stood quietly, wondering who exactly Ryujin was. Could that have been the name of the dragon king? "Understood. I shall carry on now. Thank you for your help Haku!" 

The white dragon bowed his head, in which Kaito would return a bow of his own. With this information it'd make things much easier for the boy. Now he didn't have to worry about being surprised; he knew what to expect from the upcoming dragons. Kaito would walk up to the fourth door, "Four." This was going to be a difficult one if what Haku said was true. Kurohime sounded like she was uncontrollable by the sound of it. In order to survive, he had to make sure that he was physically and mentally prepared to take her on. "Here I go."

---------------
TWC = (1543 + 673 = 2216)
(533 + 673 = 1206)
1000/1000 Summon: Haku
206/1500 Summon: Kurohime

Onto the next chamber; the domain of the "Black Princess" Kurohime. Why exactly she had that name? No clue. But Haku did mention something about her devouring Kaito if he wasn't careful. Could it be that she, unlike the other dragons, held some kind of hatred for anything else? Possibly so. Kaito'd think of the beast that'd be awaiting him, Kurohime. Depending on her strength and power, he'd probably have a hard time pursuading her to lend him some help. This was the type of dragon that she was turning out to be. The boy would walk down a hallway, lined with green-flamed torches. What was with all these torches? As he walked deeper he could see green pits that released a gas that didn't seem too safe to be around. Not to mention that there were piles of bones everywhere. This place was starting to look like a monster's den, which wouldn't exactly raise Kaito's hopes of easily getting her to lend her power. "Something tells me this is going to be troublesome."

Kaito walked onto a massive platform, green liquid surrounding it like some moat. Once he did the green liquid overflowed onto the path connecting the hallway to the platform, blocking any kind of exit. Kaito'd look behind and sigh; now he was stuck here. "Kurohime! I've come for you!" The boy's shout would echo throughout the entire chamber. There'd be a tremor in the chamber, lasting about a minute or so. Kurohime most likely was aware of his presence in her chamber. If so, Kaito'd have to ready himself for anything! "Let me guess, Haku has informed you of me?" A voice from a massive black hole on the upper wall of the chamber spoke. Kaito peered into the darkness, hoping to spot the dragon. From the pitch black hole opened two glowing eyes, yellow in color. She'd grin, showing her full set of teeth and the same yellow glow within her mouth. The massive dragon would climb out of the hole and slither down to the platform, where she'd look down upon the small Uchiha. 

"You are the Uchiha that everyone's been talking about? Hmph. You do not look to be powerful." The dragon lowered her head to Kaito's level, inspecting him with curiosity. "Not too many make it to my chamber. But for those that have been lucky enough..." Her eyes shifted to one direction, in which Kaito would follow. To his left was a large pile of human remains. She was no joke. "They have not lived to tell the tale of Ryugu-Jo." She grinned and stared directly into his eyes. Kaito could feel her cold stare looking into his soul. What kind of dragon was this? "What makes you think I'll be like the others who have reached your chamber?" Refusing to show weakness to the dragon, Kaito would challenge her. If he didn't, he'd sure be eaten up. The dragon's forked tongue slowly slipped through the opening at the tip of her snout, smelling the boy. She fed on the fear of those who entered her chamber. Of all the brave souls that managed to get here, none of them were able to hold back their fear of this particular dragon. 

"Are you like the others Kaito? Do you have what it takes to reach the fifth chamber?" She raised her head, awaiting an answer. Kaito'd simply nod, "Of course I do dragon." Kurohime's expression changed, as if she did not like the answer. She brought her head back and shot out in attempt to snap her jaws shut on the boy and devour him entirely. Kaito could see her attack coming; he quickly jumped to the right, moving from her direct line-of-sight. "Do not seem so confident boy!!!" Green flames gathered at her mouth, escaping the corners of her mouth. She'd turn her head in his direction and open her mouth, firing a stream of green fire at the boy! The fire rained down upon his previous location, missing him by a hair as he managed to jump onto the wall. 

"I shall crush you!!" In order to pursuade the dragon, Kaito would have to battle!!

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TWC = (2216 + 696 = 2912)
(206 + 696 = 902)
902/1500 Summon: Kurohime

The green blaze spread across the platform, sending in a wave of heat. Kaito'd stand on the wall waiting for the dragon's next move! She'd look up at him and open her gaping mouth again, sending another stream of the green fire at the boy. He'd repeat his previous move, moving around with speeds that would be difficult to follow. However, Kurohime was no novice; she was a high ranked dragon with the ability to use heightened sense! "Do you honestly think you can run from me?" The ran along the wall until he was met by Kurohime's massive tail. The tail would slam into the wall, breaking in the wall and blocking the boy's path. Kaito's balance would be knocked off because of the shockwave traveling throughout the wall. That'd give Kurohime an opening to attack again, where she'd swipe at the boy. Fortunately, he was able to escape the claws but he was still hit by the palm. Like a fly getting swatted, the boy was sent flying into the opposite side of the wall. "You are nothing to me!" Kurohime would send another blaze attack, trying to hit the boy while he laid in the indent created. 

Kaito raised himself from the indent, his body scathed and clothes ripped. Blood began leaking from the corner of his mouth. "That was a good hit! But you're going to have to try harder to put me down." A green glow lit up the side of the wall as the fire closed in. In order to make a clean get-away he'd have to use Shunshin, which he did. He'd appear directly to her right, behind the green flames that already burned over the platform. "Finally resorting to jutsu? This will not help you!!" Kurohime turned her head towards the boy's new position, where she'd be met by a punch to her face. The blow had sent the dragon's face back, where'd she'd stagger a bit. After connecting with the punch he'd perform a hand seal in mid-air, sending a large fireball at her chest. The blazing fireball had smacked her dead in the chest, sending the already staggering giant crashing back into the large pool of green liquid! 

He'd land on the platform, within the ring of green fire. "Do not underestimate me...." A roar would resonate throughout the chamber as Kurohime climbed out of the liquid, fire flaring from her nostrils. "You will pay for that!!!!" Now she really looked angry! The dragon would open her mouth, firing the green liquid out of her mouth like a pump. Chances were that the liquid wasn't safe at all. So Kaito was not going to let that hit him! The boy'd store enough chakra into his legs and jump into the air. It was enough to get him onto the ceiling, where'd flip and plant his feet onto the surface. Like a bat he'd hang upside down. From above he'd see the liquid hit the previous location, spreading across the platform and touching the bones, which would melt upon contact. "As I guessed. That was acidic liquid. You aren't battling an ordinary shinobi Kurohime." It was all mental games now. If he could breach her mind and play with her, she'd succumb to her anger and would act irrationally. "Shut up! Shut up! I'll destroy you!"  

Kurohime had completely lost her temper! She'd sway her head, releasing the acid onto the ceiling above, hoping to catch Kaito at least once. From Kaito's perspective, this wasn't good. The quickest idea that came to him was using his new Katon technique to try and hit her once more. As quickly as he could, Kaito formed the needed hand seals and kneeded chakra in his lungs. He then expelled a  spiraling volume of flames that would meet the acid and burn it up. The fire would continue on its path towards Kurohime, where she'd also spew her green flames to defend herself. Both attacks clashed! But Kaito's did not fail in reaching her; his attack overpowered the dragon's. This showed how powerful the Uchiha truly was! His fire continued on its path and hit Kurohime, sending her crashing down. By now the entire platform was covered in fire. 

There wouldn't be much room down there for Kaito to safely stand if he jumped down. He'd stay up on the ceiling, looking down into the mixture of green and orange flames. Within the scorching heat Kurohime laid; she was defeated. The dragon would look up at Kaito from the fire with her glowing yellow eyes. To her he was a powerful shinobi. Besides Shenron and Ryujin, no one was ever able to put her in her place, until now. "You have defeated me Uchiha. You have proven yourself to be a powerful warrior." Kurohime swung her tail, extinguishing the fire on the platform. She'd then stand up and bow her head, showing the boy the respect he rightfully deserved. "I now believe that you will be able to become one of us. You carry the heart of the dragon and possess enough power to be recognized in Ryugu-Jo. You may proceed to Shenron." 

Kurohime didn't sound too happy. She was a prideful dragon and this loss wasn't exactly what she had in mind. But she did give respect where it was due, and Kaito had earned it. She wasn't going to lighten up to him so easily. "Shenron won't let you proceed so easily. So you better be ready...." Kaito dropped down from the ceiling, landing on his feet. The boy would bow to Kurohime, "Thank you so much for everything you've helped me with Kurohime. I really owe you, you know that?" As much as she wanted to grin, she kept a serious expression. She wanted the boy to believe that she was tough. "You're welcome." Kaito would nod and walk off to the next door, "Five." 

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TWC = (2912 + 997 = 3909)
(902 + 997 = 1899)
1500/1500
401/2000 Summon: Shenron

The fifth gate had opened, revealing what appeared to be a black chamber. There was absolutely nothing inside; it was a dark void. To add to it, once the door closed shut it completely vanished. Kaito'd walk around, unknowing of what was to come.......

"Uchiha. I have been waiting for you." A thunderous voice from the darkness. Kaito's only instinct was to reply, regardless of his current position. "Yes, I am Kaito! I come here for Shenron! I assume that's you!" There was a brief silence; not one single sound came from the darkness of the chamber. In fact, Kaito didn't even think he was in a chamber at all. For some reason he felt weightless, like gravity wasn't holding him down. It was so weird. "Yes, I am Shenron. I shall be your guide to becoming the dragon. You have shown that you are indeed worthy enough to become one of us.  Kurohime has informed us of your power. In fact, all of the dragons you have crossed paths with have informed us. There is still one more test that remains. You must be ready to make a transition." Shenron's words were quite confusing. Every dragon that he had met mentioned something about becoming like them. Could the final test be transforming into a dragon? Becoming a beast of Ryugu-Jo? Just the thought of it sent chills down Kaito's spine. 

If this was the case he'd forever be changed. "Make a transition? What exactly do you mean by that?" Kaito knew well what it meant. It was the only possibility that made the most sense. He just wanted some verification on this. "Exactly what you think it means. You are to become a dragon and face our king Ryujin as his kin, not an outsider. Do not fret, you shall not transformed into a dragon for all eternity, you will simply be able to transform at will using Senjutsu." Senjutsu? This was the first time Kaito had ever heard of this. What was this Senjutsu that he spoke of? "I apologize, but what is Senjutsu? I am not familiar with that term." It was then that scenery changed; stars shot across the void. Planets were tossed into the darkness where Kaito could see. The one that stood out the most was his home planet. At this point he actually felt afraid. This was the unknown. Something he had never experienced before. "What is this magic!?" The boy'd take a few steps back, looking down. 

"Kaito, you are in the celestial space. Humans do not yet know of this. Us dragons do not come from your planet. We are from another realm. The gateway to our home and realm and your world is Ryugo-Jo. Your world is filled with a natural energy that us dragons bathe in. It is essential to us. This same natural energy can also be harnessed by humans, but when using it as a dragon you can utilize its full power. I plan to teach you how to harness this energy and use it in perfect balance with your physical energy and spiritual energy. In order to stand a chance against Ryujin and pass the last trial, you must learn this." Kaito caught onto what was going on. Apparently, in order to even approach Ryujin to pass the trials, he'd have to learn how to use natural energy, which was basically Senjutsu. If this was the only way he was going to be able to advance, he wouldn't decline this offer! "I understand now! Show me how to become like you!" Kaito was anxious to learn how to use this Senjutsu. Something like this would come in handy. 

"Good. Good. You shall become powerful Kaito. Your Sage training begins now!" Stars began to rotate around the boy, everything was moving so fast! He couldn't exactly keep track of what was going on. There was then a giant flash, which would blind the boy momentarily. Once his vision returned to him he laid eyes upon the massive dragon that was Shenron. A giant serpentine dragon, green in color, floated in mid-air. Kaito was nothing but a speck compared to him, the behemoth in the stars. "Incredible.." Shenron's glowing eyes pierced the boy. This beast was so majestic. "Kaito, come! Take seat on my head." The boy nodded and flew over to the beast, landing above his head. "To begin, you shall meditate. Try to feel out the natural energy around you. Once you find it, focus on gathering in as much as possible." Kaito'd nod and relax, closing his eyes.

The goal was feel out this natural energy. How exactly would he do that? He didn't know, but he'd try to approach it as he would if he were searching for a chakra source. Kaito tried to envision a network. Some kind of grid where the energies passed through. He'd begin searching for some kind of force that was alien to him; something that came from the Earth itself. Considering that he was already familiar with nature, he'd have no problem being able to become intune with it. That was the point of the meditation after all no? To him it was. 'C'mon, where are you? Where can I find you? Allow me to feel you out." Kaito'd enter a deep meditative state. Meanwhile, Shenron would fly throughout the celestial space that they were in, helping the boy find the energy. 

It didn't take long for the Uchiha to locate some energy source. In his mind he could see the Earth in the center of the void. An aura projected itself around the terrestial body, sending its force to Kaito. This was something entirely new to the boy so it was only natural that he jumped, disrupting the meditation. "What was that!?" Shenron would continue flying, paying no mind to the boy. This was for him to figure out himself and he knew that. He'd close his eyes again and re-enter the meditative state again, beginning his search for that energy once more. 

---------------
TWC = (3909 + 1006 = 4915)
(401 + 1006 = 1407)
1407/2000 Summon: Shenron

Kaito continued to gather the natural energy, sapping the Earth of what it had to offer. The boy was beginning to feel some power enetering his body. It was very alien to him and felt relaxing. Was this the power of the Earth? Kaito remained seated on the dragon's head, his legs crossed. Bridging his hands together at his core, he was well positioned to be gathering more and more energy. "Shenron, I can feel this natural energy entering my body. It's so overwhelming! I can feel it changing me!" Little did the boy know, his flesh began turning gray. It was spreading throughout his whole torso, causing the flesh to become hard. This transformation wasn't the one that Kaito had in mind. This was a transformation that took place when the one gathering natural energy did not know how to balance it out. To add to the problem, the boy was beginning to shake. Whatever was happening to him, it was affecting his body. "I don't know what this feeling is but, I just can't seem to feel my arms." Kaito'd open his eyes to see the change his body was going through. It'd send him into a shock, as he was not able to move his arms. "What is this!? What's happening to me!?" The boy'd drop onto his back and try to move his arms. But he cannot do so. 

Shenron would notice that the boy was screaming and rolling around along the scales. He'd get caught against one of the giant spikes protruding from the dragon's back, his body beginning to take on the gray color entirely. "You have much to learn before you even begin thinking about gathering the natural energy to begin your transformation! I was wrong to even let you try and take a go at it." A pulse generated from Shenron's body, passing through the boy and ridding him of the gray color that was spreading along his skin. Once he was cleansed, he laid there panting. "What in the world was happening to me there!? I felt myself getting stiff!" Kaito stood up and grabbed his head. He was feeling a bit woozy from whatever it was that was trying to take over him. Hopefully, Shenron would be able to explain what it was that was happening to him. Kaito needed some answers if he was going to continue with this training here. 

"You were going through a petrification process. When one does not know how to balance their spiritual energy, physical energy and the natural energy being gathered, they begin to lose themselves. The inbalance will then result in the one trying to gather the energy transforming into a statue. That explains why you were beginning to become stiff and the unusual color of your skin. You must learn how to keep still so you can devote all of your focus to this Kaito. Fortunately for you, I am here to stop that process and revert you back to your human form." Shenron stopped in mid-flight, hovering over a large platform in the center of the void. On the platform were many statues. "Look there Kaito! Do you see those statues? Those were the marine creatures of Ryugu-Jo that attempted to become like us. They could not control the natural energy and so they failed." How could these marine creatures have been able to become like dragons? No, how could they have gotten up to the fifth gate? To Shenron. Was there some kind of short-cut they knew of? "How exactly did those marine creatures get here?" Shenron remained silent after the question was asked. There were some things that were meant to be kept from him until he became one of the dragons. For now Shenron would be in silence on the matter. "Once you are a dragon like us I will tell you. For now, we must get to training. Come, let us begin!"

The massive dragon descended onto the platform, landing on his four legs. Kaito would jump from the dragon's back and land on the floor. Around him were many stars. Something about this place sent chills down the boy's spine; gave him goosebumps. How could such a place exist? What more was out there in the beyond? "We will first begin on your ability to be motionless Kaito. You must learn how to resist the urge to move. You must become like a rock sitting in a valley. Still. Only then will you be able to completely concentrate on gathering the energy without any worry of becoming a statue." Shenron would turn his head to the center of the platform. "You will sit there in the center. Sit the same way that you sat on my head." 

Kaito nodded and walked over to the center of the platform. Once he was there he'd sit crossed leg, the same way he did when he was positioned on Shenron's head. Taking orders from Shenron didn't seem so bad. He was very respectful, much like Hamu almost. What was Kurohime talking about earlier? Pursuading Shenron didn't seem like a difficult task at all! "Okay, now what?" Shenron closed his eyes and started to glow a golden color. A golden energy would form around Kaito, shaping itself into an orb that would contain the boy. "Kaito, this orb that contains you will begin to shrink and outline your body. If you touch it you will feel severe pain. You are to stay completely still to avoid touching the energy." Kaito nodded and breathed in deeply. His heart would slow down to aid in his goal to be motionless. The orb around him would begin shrinking to coat the boy, only allowing a .35mm space between him and energy. One slight move would cross the energy and trigger its pain dealing effect. "Good Kaito. Good. Maintain your position." 

The boy'd begin feeling the space closing on him. About a .12mm space would be allowed. Kaito would begin shaking; he was getting nervous. The boy felt like he was trapped and couldn't escape. "You're losing it Kaito. You are losing your focus." The boy's shaking would be the cause of his failure again. An elbow passed through the energy, sending a sharp pain through his body. Kaito's reaction to the pain would then send him through the enrgy, intensifying it. Shenron would eventually increase the space within the energy, allowing Kaito some breathing space. He'd be screaming in pain, holding his body. "You were doing so well in the beginning Kaito. You will try again and control your body. If not the same pain will run throughout your entire body." This wasn't fun at all. If he could think of a word to summarize the training so far, it'd be torture. But in the end it was all for a good cause. Kaito'd sit up and cross his legs again, panting a bit. "Don't worry....I'll get this done."

---------------------
TWC = (4915 + 1158 = 6073)
(1407 + 1158 = 2565)
2000/2000 - Summon: Shenron
2565/5000 - Dragon God Hermit Mode
563/3000 - Summon: Ryujin

Kaito relaxed himself again. This time he'd search his inner conscious for something to help him keep still. Something that would help him focus and capture his attention, where he'd drift off into another space. That was the only way he saw himself being able to keep still. He'd close his eyes and begin entering his own conscious. Everything was so peaceful there. Unlike the black void he was in before, he was not in another realm. This one appeared to be much more peaceful. A lush open field of flowers by a large lake as clear as crystal. In the center of the field was a small windmill. It was a secluded area that Kaito'd be taken to by his brother Sanosuke when he was much younger. In the distance he could see himself running after an older male. They seemed to be having so much fun. Kaito'd watch from the top of the field, cherishing every moment. These were the times with his brother that he was able to remember, actually, the only memory he had of her before they embarked on the war mission. "Yuna." A breeze passed through the field. When it did the two children would break into glowing fragments to be carried with the wind. The boy would watch the glowing breeze as it carried the fragments through the air.

Now he was alone. Alone like he'd always been. Before he met Kiki and after her death. Kaito was always a loner and that was the main cause of his decision to become a wanderer. There was much for him to learn. "Maybe this could help me with my training. I seem to be at peace here." Kaito'd walk down the field, keeping his hand out as it passed through the flowers. Here he felt free and at peace. Maybe this was the key to completing the training much easier? He'd begin wondering how his body in the real world was doing. Kaito would walk over to the windmill and open the small door to it. In the past, when he was a child, he'd always come here to store some of his most prized findings. There were also some stuff that were precious to him; things that held much value to him. "I wonder if the very first shuriken that Sanosuke had given me is still here." Kaito'd search through the hay stacked inside of the mill, where he had originally placed it. To his surprise the weapon was still there. The boy smiled and rested on the hay, laying his back and fiddling with the weapon long forgotten.

In the real world the boy was as still as the pebble that lies near the stream. Not one single movement came from the boy. His breathing was relaxed and his heart beated very slowly. Shenron would watch from his position, impressed with the boy's adjustment. The dragon wondered what he had done to change up his approach to remaining motionless. "Seems the boy has found a way to get through this. I wonder what he's doing to accomplish this." Shenron grinned; this certainly captured his interest. In fact, to test his tactic, the dragon would shrink the orb once again, fitting Kaito's shape. To begin, he'd leave a .12mm space in between him and the glowing energy. "Let us see how long you can keep this going Kaito. You're doing well so far. If you can hear me, you must be able to gather the energy at the same time. Before doing that, however, you must find some balance between your spiritual energy, physical energy and the natural energy you will be attracting from around you." Within his conscious he was able to hear the dragon speaking to him. But in his conscious the voice sounded like it came from an omnipotent being. "I understand."

So he had to find the balance? Now this would be the tricky part. How exactly would he be able to do this from his conscious? If the conscious was his only working tactic, what would he do if he couldn't work from his inner mind? Another obstacle that would be overcome by the boy. "Shenron, I'll try to keep this going while returning to the real world. My consciousness has done me well. I'm thankful for having such a childhood." Kaito'd place the shuriken that belonged to his brother into his ripped gi. He'd stand up from the hay and walk out of the mill, where he'd look up to the sky. The boy would close his eyes and before he knew it he returned to the real world. There was a .009mm space between him and the energy at the moment. He could feel the heat coming from the energy and hear it. It actually surprised him, seeing that he was able to hold the position even when he was out in the real world. "You are doing good Kaito! Keep this up and begin to balance the energies. Once you do this you will begin to see some change! I guarantee you that you will have this done in no time. Show me what the Uchiha are known for!"

Shenron was right! The Uchiha were a proud clan and gifted. There was no reason for him to fail at this! Kaito was going to get this done no matter what! Kaito's breathing picked up; he was beginning to channel his chakra. It was already divided into two parts, now he just had to make some room for the natural energy. "Kaito, I'll begin speaking to you using my telepathy. I want to make you become as still as possible, which means no moving your mouth." Shenron made it his personal mission to help Kaito gather the natural energy; it's like he wanted him to succeed. For that Kaito was extremely grateful. "Thank you Shenron for helping with this! I'll make sure I accomplish this! After all, I am an Uchiha." If the boy could move, he'd probably be smiling by now. Spiritual energy and physical energy would begin reshaping itself to allow for more room. Natural energy being absorbed by the boy from Earth would begin shaping in with the other two energies.

A 33.3 percent split up of the energies would be enough to give him a good balance. Anything less or lower would probably cause the petrification process again. "You are doing very well Kaito! I have faith in your ability!" Shenron's words would boost the boy's confidence and morale! The three energy sources would begin balancing. They were beginning to reach homeostasis because of the boy's will. "I can feel the energy balancing within my body Shenron! I can feel it rushing throughout my body! A power I've never possessed before in my life!" An aura was beginning to cloak the boy's resting body. "Good Kaito! Now complete the transformation! Ascend into the state of the sage! It shall be your first step to becoming a true dragon worthy enough of standing in our king's presence!"  

Kaito's power was surging through his body. In fact, it was beginning to push back the golden orb that entrapped him. That was how powerful the energy output was! Shenron actually smiled upon seeing it happen. "Yes, release the power that will begin your transcendance into the Dragon God of Ryugu-Jo!" The beast would smile as Kaito's energy completely ruptured the orb. There'd be a last minute emission and then silence. Kaito would open his eyes to reveal his three tomoe Sharingan with a slit pupil. "You've done it! Incredible. You were actually able to do it."

---------------
TWC = (6073 + 1303 = 7376)
(2565 + 1303 = 3868)
3868/5000 - Dragon God Hermit Mode
(563 + 1303 = 1866)
1866/3000 - Summon: Ryujin

Kaito stood up from the playform, feeling much more different than before. Kaito was able to see everything much differently now. He could feel the natural energy coursing through his chakra stream, leaving him vigorated. "Shenron, I feel stronger now. I can feel the natural flow of energy." The boy would close his eyes and take in the air from around him. Never had he felt so good in his life. "Yes Kaito, you should be able to feel everything much differently now. You are now a part of the natural system. This will help you greatly in your journey to becoming a powerful shinobi. There is one more thing for you to learn though. Before I send you back to Ryugu-Jo, you must complete the transformation. You have only attained a part of the Dragon God Hermit power. There is one more thing you must do to complete it. Think of yourself as an egg that has hatched. You are not yet a mature dragon. In order to become a true beast, you must learn how to use the natural energy in the same manner we do." They were beginning to ascend from the platform, no, the platform was moving from them. Like before, the starts cycled around them. Another transportation summoned by Shenron. But where would they be going now?

As the cycle raged on the two found themselves before a massive stream of energy. Whatever this thing was, it was massive in comparison to Shenron, so that said a lot. It also gave off a potent vibe. Kaito was dwarved by the stream, that circled around what appeared to be a small planet. The planet did not look lively, however. It looked dark and dead, stripped of any life that had been on it. "Besides Ryugu-Jo, this is the only thing that we have left of our home, The Dracon Stream. Kaito, you have to complete the training by fully becoming a dragon. In order to do so you must bathe yourself in the stream. Only then will you receive our true abilities. Then I shall consider you a true kin." Shenron awaited the boy; would he follow through with the final part of his training? This was necessary in order to face Ryujin and gain his trust. What choice did he have if he wanted to become stronger? Kaito'd look at Shenron and smile, "I'd never back down. I've come so far Shenron. I cannot simply give up here. I shall become a dragon here today and I will gain Ryujin's trust." With those last words he hovered towards the Dracon Stream. From a distance one would be able to see the tiny speck that was Kaito enter the green colored stream. He would submerge into the energy and be taken in its current.

Inside he can feel something activating. Like some kind of power had been awakened but required this to reach its full potential. Kaito was beginning to feel more power enter him. He'd allow himself to be taken with the stream. His body would travel in its course, absorbing the energy. Shenron would watch from a distance. The dragon could feel Kaito's chakra and natural pulsating in unision. "Good Kaito! I could feel your power rising drastically! No longer are you merely a human! You will be like us! One who lives the life of a shinobi and the life of a dragon!" Shenron, as wise and stern as he was, could not contain his excitement! The beast would begin laughing in joy, finally witnessing a human pass the trials! Finally seeing the emergence of a new dragon. For the first time in history there'd be a link between humans and the dragons that resided on Earth. This is what Shenron had been longing for and today he'd finally get to see his dream come into fruition. "Rise from the stream Kaito! Emerge as a dragon raging into the void! Give it light!"

From the stream of the energy emerged Kaito, in his same human form. The boy would be sent towards Shenron, who held a confused expression. Had the transformation not worked? Everything was going so well and Shenron could even feel the power that was discharged from the boy. But why did he still have a human figure? "Impossible. This doesn't make any sense. I felt the change in your power. Have we failed?" Kaito stopped before the giant dragon, his head lowered. "Shenron, I can feel it. I can feel the natural energy changing." Kaito would slowly raise his head and smile. "I do not understand." The boy would release a surge of chakra, a red energy that would consume him! The more it raged the larger it became. Something very extraordinary was happening here before Shenron's eyes. Something that, up to this point, had only been dreamt about by the wise dragon. From within the pillar emerged a massive dragon, about the same size of Shenron. It was Kaito! He had completed his dragon transformation!

"Can it be!? Have you finally become a dragon! The Dragon God has arrived!" Kaito would fly throughout the void, being followed by Shenron! They traveled pass the stars and planets, returning to Ryugu-Jo. Before Kaito knew it, the same anomally had taken place against. Whatever Shenron was able to do, he did it again! Stars zoomed by them and before they knew it the both of them were in Ryugu-Jo. Shenron would rest upon his giant platform in the chamber and look to Kaito, "I have taught you all I know Kaito. You have now become one of us. Now you may proceed to Ryujin and face him as one of his own kin." Kaito'd revert into his original form. Thanks to Shenron he was able to complete his sage training. "Thank you Shenron. I know what it's like to be a dragon because of you. I promise that I'll complete the final step. After all, I am an Uchiha." Kaito'd smile and gesture a goodbye to the dragon before walking up to the massive coral gate.

Finally, he had overcome all the previous five dragon. Mushu, Momonosuke, Haku, Kurohime and Shenron were all befriended by Kaito, well not really with Kurohime, but she would be now. All that remained was for Ryujin to show Kaito his trust. If Kaito could gain the dragon king's trust then humans and dragons would strengthen their relationship. No longer would Ryugu-Jo be hiding from the surface world. "That boy is something special. I wonder if there are any other humans like him on the surface world." Kaito'd push the main gate and walk through, entering what appeared to be some portal. It would possibly lead the boy to Ryujin's domain. Well, if it did, Kaito would be ready to face him. This is what he was waiting for. "Okay Kaito, it's time to do this." In no less than a second he found himself in a massive throne room. It wasn't like the first room he encountered Ryujin. No, this one was much larger and actually lit. "Ryujin!! I am here!"

-----------
TWC = (7376 + 1185 = 8561)
(3868 + 1185 = 5053)
5053/5000 - Dragon God Hermit Mode
(1866 + 1185 = 3051)
3051/3000 - Summon: Ryujin

Kaito found himself walking down the pathway to the throne. Before him was a middle aged man, of lean look, seated on the throne. He was dressed in royal garments, certainly someone who held power in Ryugu-Jo. "Ryujin? You are human as well?" The king smirked. There was so much for Kaito to learn. "Kaito, you have made it far and for that I congratulate you. You've managed to overcome every single trial pitted against you, even Kurohime spoke highly of you." The dragon king raised his grail and sipped from it before speaking again. "You are now a warrior of Ryugu-Jo. An ally. A friend. My kin. With this power you hold now you'll be able to conquer lands in the surface world in our name." So this was his plan all along? To train Kaito and then use him to take control up above? That wasn't going to happen. "No. I will do no such thing Ryujin. The surface world is my home and I will protect it with your power. I thank you for everything you've given me, but I cannot do that. If you want to battle over this then I shall face you."

Ryujin couldn't help but smile. Kaito was living up to his name. A powerful Uchiha, and smart too. The king admired that. "Excellent! You have done well Kaito! You have done well! That was the final trial my boy! This power has not gotten to your head and for that I allow you to leave Ryugu-Jo with the power you hold now. Go and speak of this day. Teach the world of us dragons. Go and rage my fellow dragon!" So they both came to an understanding just like that! Good. The boy would be able to return to the surface world now and carry on with his travels. Maybe he'd even be able to show Kyo what he had learned. "Thank you Ryujin! I will not disgrace the dragon race! Hopefully there will be legends about us! I shall return in the future." Ryujin would nod his head and before Kaito would open a portal, the gateway to Umi. "I'll hold you to that. If you ever need us, don't be afraid to summon us forth."

Kaito'd return his nod, "Understood." The boy would step through the portal and would find himself at the Umi ports, sitting behind a large crate. What a trip that had been.

[END]

----------------
TWC = (8561 + 406 = 8967)
406/1500 - One Skill
45 Stats

Jeez this was a long post.....