“Thank you for tuning in to KNN, today we celebrate the 200 year anniversary of the ACNL Law. Commonly known as the Anti-Child Ninja Law. Not only does this mark the 200 years of progress, but the 100 years of peace brought upon by our innovations in utilizing Shizen Enerugi. These factors have bought a peace that not only our children will know, but one that the entire world will know.”
-Katie Okata 15 minutes before reporting on the felonious activities of Konaha branch of Government-
The Story
The shinobi world as we’ve known it is quite simply no more. The extended era of peace amongst the nations since the 4th Shinobi War has persisted for centuries. This form of unity between neighboring countries has facilitated real change, shifting the role of a Kage from being a warrior leader and instead statesmen and politicians, from the Daimyo and village elders making selections of leadership to the common people instead. At the center of these changes are the precious resource, Shizen Enerugi, and the ratification of ACNL [Anti-Child Ninja Law]. The ACNL is a treaty formed by all the ninja nations to put an end to the centuries long practice of child soldiers.
These groundbreaking developments gave entire generations of children new focuses, ones that centered around academics, ones that allowed for normal lives, ones that reinforced that there was more in this world than just preparing for the next war. This shifting of priorities made the passing of jutsus a regulated process overseen by the Konoha state. Old clans became armaments of the state that saw the succession of their clans not be decided by bloodlines but by the government. Parents are more focused on getting their children into universities and good careers rather than passing down knowledge from the older generations.
However, in this world of peace, the war is still ever present but now it is simply silent. The victims are faceless and the media paints a picture of placid waters meanwhile there was much more going on underneath the surface.
In this world of skyscrapers and city lights most ‘normal’ people tend to focus on themselves rather than what's going on around the world, but that choice will soon be out of their hands. An unavoidable conflict looms and the alliance of the Shinobi Nations is more tenuous than it has been in centuries.
||General Rules||
- Do not make your character an immortal god who can blow anyone and anything away in one hit with no limitations.
- Everyone is different and there may be disagreements along the way, however keep it cordial at minimum. If someone's behavior is toxic in nature then they'll be told to leave. I don't foresee this being an issue but it may still need to be said.
- Know the difference between what you know and what your character knows. You are not your character no matter what kind of extension of yourself is imprinted inside your character.
- Tailed Beasts are off limits unless you have been given permission by the GM.
- Don't be afraid to come to a GM if you have an idea you want to try or a concern over the game. Consider this my open-door policy.
- Have fun! I’ve seen people get caught up in things like who's the better writer or who has the strongest character. We just want you guys to have fun. This is an RPG based on writing not mathematics. Databook ratings are important but not the end all be all. You can be rated lower and still win under the right conditions.
- The GM has the final say so and I will change anything to the game as I see fit especially if I feel something will harm the positive culture that makes the game fun. People need to be able to express themselves but I will step in whenever I deem it necessary. As James A Jannise would say, "be good people".
- I think it's important to be flexible and to work with people. So if I say no to something I will let you know if it's completely non-negotiable. We can work together and retool whatever it is that didn't get approved from characters, OKRs, abilities, etc.
- If I find a trait is too powerful then I will assess it differently than what is stated in the template. I will let you know directly if this situation applies to a trait.
- Real life events and commitments take precedence over the game. I will not be imposing a rule for posting activity as of now, however that is not to say it will not be added in the future. Just remember to communicate and if it is something private just say so and if you have an idea of how long you will be out just let us know. No other questions asked.
- THE ROCK LEE RULE - You must maintain at least five points in all stats. The reason being Rock Lee; He is a ninja who can't use genjutsu or ninjutsu but still maintains a score in both categories.
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The Land of Fire
Konoha – The Shinobi Metropolis
Konoha – The Shinobi Metropolis
The Land of Fire has undergone a lot of change; one of the more prominent changes is that it has expanded its borders to assimilate the Land of Hot Water and Land of Sound. The Land of Fire has been at the forefront of crafting cutting-edge technology centered around Shizen Enerugi as its power source. With these advancements the shinobi in not just Konoha, but the entire world over, are on the precipice of becoming obsolete.
As the main source of natural energy Konoha has a treaty with Amegakure receiving unknown benefits from Ame and in exchange giving Ame access to their natural energy source, however this alliance is not without strings as Amegakure must stay in the sky. This agreement adds to the security of Konoha as the aerial vantage point essentially allows Ame to raise an alarm if there ever were an attack.
In spite of the declining state of the shinobi due to these factors, Konoha,possibly possesses the most powerful military strength out of the current nations. They are vicious recruiters of refugees when it comes to forming their lines. They promise low income children, specifically refugees, a chance of a new life as long as they are obedient to the betterment of Konoha. This strategy is in spite of the fact Konoha claims not to be a military state, but rather a menacing military power that hopes to never use its full might.
The advancements in technology has stripped Konoha of its bygone traditional architecture instead being replaced by an industrial metropolis. Even a monument like the Hokage Mountain has been affected as while it retains its appearance there are now lights that dramatically shine upon the countenances of Konoha’s former leaders. The lights make the mountain far more visible than they had been in a previous era. The village is now more of a city, a steel jungle with skyscrapers, high rises, roads, underground train systems, bustling bars and clubs, highways, and even its own slums. This urban reconstruction could not be achieved without the generators created by remnants of the Uzumaki clan. These generators supply power to all of Konoha, even providing welfare for the cities less fortunate by offering affordable electricity.
The Land of Wind
Suna- The Nation of Drifting Ideals
The Land of Wind has been blessed with many natural resources to export but chief among them is Orihalcum, a metallic alloy only found in Fuzenkagure. Suna was able to gain the right of first offer on Orihalcum as the sand shinobi exclusively had the ability to refine the metal alloy based on past teachings of past Kazekages, specifically the Third, the Fourth Kazekage Rasa, and the Seventh Kazekage Shinki. This blessing is also Suna’s curse as it paints a large target on the Land of Wind due to the mysterious and valuable properties of Orihalcum. Many of the other shinobi lands, have ever so slyly been trying to get their hands on it by taking adjacent land from Suna. The borders are teeming with conflict and Sunagakure has been hesitant to begin phasing shinobi out as they have what can be categorized as mediocre military power, but they make up for their lack of strength by making leveraging the Orihalcum to create alliances with the villages around them and uniting whatever power they can consolidate together.
The fruits of these alliances had expanded the Land of Wind so it is now made up of Ishi, Kusa, and part of the newly formed Land of Sins aka Fuzenkagure. Fuzenkagure is under the protection of the Land of Wind currently, however, Suna is looking forward to having Fuzen be assimilated into them like its other allies. The main issue with dissolving these three, almost four villages, is the border and land conflicts that arise because of the assimilation. Suna’s goal is to have everyone work together as a collective, just as the Land of Fire, but to keep their individual ideas and way of life intact. However, that is where conflict arises, there is only unity on this shaking bridge called ideals.
The Land of Earth
Iwa- Strength in Solidarity
Iwa- Strength in Solidarity
On the opposite end of the spectrum from the Land of Wind is the Land of Earth which takes a different approach when it comes to its relationship with the other nations. Iwagakure has forcefully annexed Takigakure as well as the land between Oto and Taki. Furthermore, they have very recently and successfully gotten a peaceful surrender from Shimogakure so they too are on Iwa’s side. Iwa has dominated all aspects of life in their expanded lands, things that are commonplace in Iwa have been extended to their occupied territory. The food, the culture, pop culture, even down to idioms and sayings, all have been infiltrated and replaced by Iwa’s domineering culture. Iwa has been able to sway the hearts and minds of their occupied lands by casting The Land of Fire as a villain, giving the people an us vs them mentality.
Currently the Land of Earth and Wind are on friendly terms, however, with The Land of Wind trying to get Fuzenkagure to become a part of their nation things can change at any given moment. The elders of Iwa have proclaimed that If Fuzen will be under one flag, it will be theirs.
The Allied Nations of Lighting & Water
Kumo and Kiri-The Last Bastion of Pride and Power
Kumo and Kiri-The Last Bastion of Pride and Power
While the other big three nations had agreed upon the abolishment of ninja, especially the teaching of children of ninja arts and ways. Kumo and Kiri both agreed that the old ways worked. These two great powers have come to believe the other nations are too radical in regards to change. The system on which both hidden villages were formed is a system that has withstood the test of time making it so both these nations wish to eschew the changing world. They even doubled down, rewarding those that actively become ninjas with financial incentive and land rights. The two allied nations are known for their heavy hand and almost fervent belief in the old system, even if it comes to the detriment of their people.
The citizens of Kumo and Kiri live in blissful ignorance believing that it’s possible to not worry about shinobi politics or the potential changes in their way of life. They hold steadfast to the traditions of prior eras. Those who agree that the ninja creed of old should be upheld usually don’t see young shinobi as child soldiers, but rather as vehicles to pass on teachings, and to as protectors from any and all outside threats. Those on the other side, think of the nation they live in as barbaric and not understanding the times.
However, no matter what the people see, all the other world powers see The Land of Lighting and Water as a potential threat. Especially Konoha, who sees Kumo and Kiri as blatantly disregarding progress for their own “outdated” thinking.
Fuzen- Ravaged and Torn
Fuzenkagure Leader: Haku Minami
Fuzenkagure Leader: Haku Minami
Not being a part of the big nations has left the once small and yet capable village, as a shell of its former self. Fuzen is the birthplace of the mysterious metal alloy, Orihalcum, which Suna has used to reap massive profits. Due to their exclusionary agreement Fuzen only supplies Suna with the metal which they in turn refine and split the profits over. With that said Fuzen lies on a cornucopia of other bountiful natural resources that it sells proportionally more to Iwa in order to not upset them. No matter who controls the territory, they will see a massive rise in wealth.
In this world of peace, there is a secret war to try to weaken the land. Those who live in Fuzen are now just displaced people trying to make a living. There are a high number of orphans and those displaced from the border skirmishes. The ‘relief’ effort to support this burgeoning land is more akin propaganda and political intrigue as other internal proponents of Fuzen try to get the citizens to want to side with one of the bigger nations. There are legit efforts to do well and rebuild especially from the clans that originated there, but with constant attacks it seems as though a band aid on a gaping wound. With the weakening of their belief in their founders, The Minami clan, the people of Fuzen just seem tired.
However, some people are tired of being tired. Fuzen is growing an emergent rebellion force to combat the other nations, almost to the point of terroristic acts. Those that are captured are extremely loyal to the cause, only stating “We will take back what is ours with fire and blood.”
Amegakure
The Terminal in the Skies
The Terminal in the Skies
The Land of Rain “Tranquility Among the Skies” Ame has surfaced to the world in more ways than one. With the aid of technological advances throughout the years, Amegakure is the first village to make its breakthrough of becoming one with the skies. Ame is a flying fortress that glides through the skies of the world endlessly. With 4 ports around the world: one in Konoha, another in Suna, one in the remains of old Ame, and the final one in Iwakagure. Ame upholds a progressive belief on the ninja world. Ame has seen a lot of investment from Suna and Konoha as it effectively serves as border control between the nations. This has effectively created an alliance between Konoha and Ame as well as Ame and Suna. These alliances are separate but necessary for balance as Konoha provides the power source to keep Ame afloat and Suna contributes the special alloy that is nearly impenetrable but incredibly light allowing for Ame to literally stay afloat.
In return Ame has agreed to never let the city touch solid ground again and has also agreed that it will never form a formal military. Ame has an open borders policy and their elevators have allowed for easy travel between Konoha, Suna, and Iwa. Ame tries to maintain neutrality not wishing to draw the ire of any of the world powers. Allowing technology and advancements to pair themselves with old traditional beliefs.
Due to Ame’s status as a trading hub between nations its citizenship consists of the ultra elites and wealthy politicians, while the less fortunate are stationed near the exhausts and propellers of the village, exposing themselves to a more uncomfortable form of living. The only way to transport itself to the village is through an aerial bus. They are a mercantile village and its citizens are recognized as Sky Vagrants. They travel the world and most people go to sell and purchase their rare wares here. Ame is a village that garners its fair share of gossip, it’s by far the most technologically advanced group sustained by a myriad of world powers, drawing its energy from the natural source of chakra that the world naturally develops. It is rumored to be one of the bastions where criminal syndicates congregate, among these syndicates the most powerful is The Table. Politically, they are considered neutral, their loyalty more for the highest bidder than any particular country, although some say that this mentality is a veil to something more sinister.
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The Table
“ On behalf of our High Council, we welcome you to this wonderful organization, we welcome you to The Table.. We hope that this letter finds you in good health and that you continue to provide your services. To those who have been recommended by friends and family to join us, we greet you with open arms. We hope that you enjoy your time working for us and that your talents will serve the high council for years to come. However, to those that...have the unfortunate luck of being indebted to us, we hope that you work hard. As you know freedom isn’t cheap, nor is a human life. As always, treat your fellow mercenaries with respect, and please...Do follow the rules.”
High Council
The Table is an underground criminal syndicate run by an enclave simply known as The High Council. They are made up of 6 powerful crime lords, each with a history spanning over thousands of years. They are people that don’t need to demand respect as they are simply given it as birthright.
How to get a Seat?
You can join The Table in 3 ways, be born/raised into it, some High Council members sometimes adopt children and raise them in something akin to a finishing school. All those that make it to the graduation ceremony are rewarded with membership, and as is often the case in a hierarchical setting, grander privilege.
As the High Council sits at the head of the table it’s members can give those outside The Table a recommendation to join without a need for a graduation ceremony. It is simple as a High Council member giving you their seal, however it is not simple to earn said seal.
The last way to join The Table is the least fortunate of the options, reserved for those who become “Indebted”. Life has a price, from the moment of your first breath to the moment of your dying breath. Everything is quantifiable for the Table, even life can have someone somewhere put a price on it. If you are indebted, then until the Table has stripped you of everything you are,were,and will become. In most cases, some people are born indebted, sometimes babies are given to the High Council and are raised used as collateral for death.
How to be excused from The Table
If you are born into it, then it is very complicated to leave, for you have to revoke your blood, your name, and your history. Family, friends, and even yourself, all must die (figuratively of course). You are left with the wealth you have ascertained for yourself and you can even be granted a new name, a home even, but once you leave you leave. The currency with which to get your seat at the table back is of grave consequence.
Recommendations can go whenever, however, but as is the modus operandi of the Table they too must pay. A leaving fee, a price made from using services such as weapons, jutsus that they taught you, neutral grounds, living arrangements, and sometimes, even companionship. The Table doesn’t like losing bodies, unless they demand it and as such the leaving fee will require blood for blood.The Indebted can not leave until the debt is paid and then the leaving fee is paid. Or, they can get someone to pay for their debts. A debt passing paperwork can be made as long as both parties consent.
Manners at the Table
Once you choose a meal, finish it, doesn’t matter how, doesn’t matter when, and doesn’t matter who you bring in to help. Finish the meal that you are given or risk being seen as ungrateful. The Table does not take kindly to ingrates.
A meal can’t be taken off the table, unless a proper payment is deposited. Payment must be equal to or more than what the meal cost, those are the rules. Of course High Council members have the right to ignore those rules…
The Table does possess hallowed grounds where no blood shed is allowed to take place. These edifices are generally upscale and have a rather inconspicuous sign that says ‘Please Take A Seat’. Those who do not respect the sanctity of these neutral sites will be immediately expelled from the Table and will suffer the full might of the High Council.
Angel Text is an amphetamine that unleashes the berserker within unleashing the most demonic impulses of a human. It’s an underground drug for those who can't properly mold chakra, so that they may stand at the same level as someone that perfectly mastered it. The body’s natural limiters are erased, allowing the user to surpass any previous limitations that have been placed on them.
Angel Text gives the user the complete feeling of euphoria, the more the user is attacked, the greater the euphoria and the greater the mania. The body’s pain receptors are for lack of a better term, misled, giving the user a sense of pleasure and happiness rather than pain. This is needed because after the limits are released the user is basically tearing up their body.
Though as is the natural order of things everything good comes to an end. The after effect of Angel Text is where the true price for a transient moment of strength is had. The user will experience what is undoubtedly the worst pain in their life, the complete inverse of what they felt before. The only way to block out this pain is to take more angel text. It is not addictive, but to combat the drawbacks it becomes a necessity.
Angel Text has become very common in the “hired hand” business. Those who can handle the after effects are looked at as upper rank in contrast to those who can’t handle Angel Text and are called “fake rankers”. To be able to tolerate Angel Text is a badge of honor to its users, it means they earned the strength that comes from Angel Text. Those who can not tolerate the after effects are thus “fake rankers”. Fake rankers are identifiable by their necks, as they’ll have puncture marks at or near their jugular veins. In the most extreme cases people can get Angel Text Rejection Syndrome [ATRS], where the body basically explodes from the chakra overflow.. It's quite easy to determine the cause of death from ATRS as the blood vessels look as though they were ripped out of the body.
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WANT TO JOIN?
Just fill out this form and submit it in the thread. You’ll get 525 points on your starting sheet. Once you’re approved the GM will link your character here with your respective country and/or village.
The World Powers
The Land of Fire
The Land of Wind
The Land of Earth
The Land of Water and Lighting
The Land of Fire
The Land of Wind
The Land of Earth
The Land of Water and Lighting
Unrecognized Countries
Village Hidden By Sin
Village Hidden By Rain
Village Hidden By Sin
Village Hidden By Rain
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The Progression System: Objectives and Key Results
The point of the OKR system is to surface your goals and make them visible to the group so that we can all help each other achieve those goals. We don’t want people to feel as though they are just going through the motions in their little world. We want to promote interaction and teamwork and that is where OKR comes in. These are goals that you wish to accomplish over a set amount of time and are open to everyone to either chip in and or help out in. Anything that can drive your story can be considered an OKR. Based on what you submit to the GM team we will assign points based on the difficulty, creativity, and collaborative elements, if any,to your OKRs. You will get points for simply attempting your OKR's but must complete it for maximum point gains. In turn you use the points from your OKR's to upgrade your character's stats, purchase jutsu, and traits such as weapons, Kekkai Genkai, special abilities, etc.
I will __ as measured by __.
Some major examples can be:
- I will gain more experience as a shinobi by going on a B-rank mission.
- I will learn Rasengan by going through a 10 post character development arc.
- I will raise the star limit of my swordsmanship perk by completing a 5 post mini-arc
Certain ones will be reach goals that'll be longer and have more key results attached to them. So if you wanted Sage Mode that would be the objective. Then we'd work out what some strong reach goals are for the character and RPer to achieve that objective. Further examples could be:
- My character will gain more friends by interacting with this many characters
- I will obtain the Magenkyou Sharingan by killing a loved one.
This is something new so don’t be scared to ask questions and cooperate with one another to help accomplish the goals that you’ve set together. Players will also get rewarded for helping others with their OKRs as well, which range from stat bonuses, skills, or even perks. As a final note every OKR will have to be approved by me before it can begin.
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*Not all weapons have to be traits. A GM will look over the weapon and deem it as such if it's too powerful or if it would cost an exorbitant amount of points. Standard weaponry like shuriken and kunai doesn't need to be inventories just don't go overboard.
Rules of Engagement: PvP Fighting and Interaction