bury the light

The dust was starting to settle and for a man with such an intense sense of purpose Hattori felt rather directionless. It was to be expected given the circumstances but he was uncomfortable nonetheless, like a sword left too long in its sheath. More than that within the past few days in the pains in his sides had intensified, no doubt due to the fact he refused to remain idle and rest. Sheer stubbornness pushed him forward but Hattori knew he was nearing his limit and that one wrong move could ruin his form forever. After all, what good was a weapon if it was damaged beyond repair? Something had to give, it was only a matter of time.

The shinobi limped along, brushing through the overhanging branches as he eyed the willows with a critical gaze. Despite the sureness in his steps he wasn't exactly sure what he was looking for, or whether he'd even know if he passed it by. Would any old tree do or was he looking for one in particular? He'd heard once in passing that willow bark served as a decent pain killer and whilst he was very against the notion of showing or admitting weakness he wouldn't complain if it let up a little. Even if only for a little while. Coming to a stop, Hattori stared up at the largest willow that stood in roughly the centre of the woods, he caught the scent of a couple of packs on the wind- one of them being Hanako's- but this place seemed sheltered enough that he would be left to his own devices. Digging his talons into the trunk he dragged his paw down and watched the bark crumble beneath his touch. He then bowed down to sniff it, his dark nose wrinkling at the earthy smell.

Had he truly stooped so low? Seasons of hardships and training had toughened him, left him razor sharp around the edges, this was the closest he'd got to submission and he well and truly loathed it.