Naruto Fantasy (AU) : The Rise of the New Generation

[fieldbox="Nope, royalblue, solid"]
Aya Oda- Team 14 Genin

She already felt a shiver when the new guy looked a bit too happy. Was this his first team? To her it felt like the third team she was on. Shin, Genso, some odd animal guy and girl. Yet she didn't see Shin leaving coming. She was now a total stranger and felt like it on this team. Carrying a burden didn't really help either. Yet the test to day was simple when spoken but rather intimidating when you thought about it. She already knew first hand what LITTLE Mika could do. So when the new guy suggested a team huddle, she humored him and turn towards him but didn't huddle up.

He introduced himself followed up by what he could do and that she and the other guy knew each other. He then asked if they could introduce themselves. Aya would stare at him before sighing. "Aya Oda, and no offense but I'm not doing this. You two can try by all means though. Maybe if you two are doing well i'll join in." she spoke as she started walking the other way and proceeding to sit down with her sword on her lap. She couldn't really say she knew what Mika was capable of, that would be betraying their word together. She also knew her longer, even if she was more distant. So knowing the little of which Mika could do, she rather not try and fail over and over.[/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox="Isobu, cyan"]
Sanbi | In Reyna's Tummy​

Not the right time. Not the right time. Gyuki was saying it was not the right time. If he ran off now the body he was in would probably be killed and then he would 'die' and it would take forever for him to be reformed. He didn't like this argument. Not the right time seemed so... mundane. When was the right time then? He had been stuck for so long inside the dark that time was just a word now.

Reyna was talking to him. His help was evil. The beast looked at his/her hands. He was evil and it was not the right time. He combined those two sentences which somehow he had handpicked from the one sided conversation she was having with him. His help was evil. His help came in the form of his power so that must mean that his power was evil. Was that right? So far he understood it, his power was just power. Nothing evil about it. Killing people was also not evil, it was just what it said: killing people. But if his power was... Was there a perfect time for evil power? Maybe that was what Gyuki was referring too?

Also there was the argument that he could not squish his brother. It was a valid point but at the same time it made him wonder: was that actually a possibility? He doubted that Gyuki wished to do so the moment he would lash out to that orange haired girl, Gyuki would no doubt do something about it. No, he did not want to kill his brother. They were family. Not that that word meant much. How long had it been since that word had meant anything?

Slowly but surely Isobu pulled back his power and let Reyna real him in. The red coat would fade away as her lightning aura kicked in again to heal the caused damage. "Well you're stupid!" he yelled back at Reyna as he appeared before her in their shared space. "Find your own stupid help next time when your body lies broken on the ground and there is no one around to help you. Whatever. This is stupid..." He started mumbling to himself as he retreated behind the bars. He had a lot to think about.

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[fieldbox="Midori Sato, yellowgreen"]
Team 13 Sp. Jounin | On the Beach​

Midori didn't think she had ever felt so relieved in her entire life. The red coat was fading away. Reyna was coming back. Behind her she heard Yumeji shout that she had secured the corpse and as she turned her head ever so slightly she saw how the unknown ally incinerated the last opponent. She wrinkled her nose at the foul smell, but didn't seem otherwise perturbed by the whole incident. Sighing she turned back to Reyna and was about to shoot the girl a light smile and some kind words to indicate everything was okay, when she heard Kaya's call.

Half afraid that there was another enemy, Midori whipped her head back to the girl who was now standing with Yumeji near the corpse. It took her a second to understand why her teammate was calling out for her. The unknown ally was leaving. First, Midori considered that not so much a bad thing, but when she saw Kaya throw several shuriken towards the man she suddenly understood. This man was not from the Lightning Country. And he now knew that her best friend was a Jinchuuriki.

What would he do with that information?

"On it!" she yelled back at Kaya. She shot Reyna a quick look. "Stay with Yumeji and Kaya. Get back to the camp. I will be right behind you."

And she was off. She raced past Yumeji and Kaya. "Protect Reyna. Get back to the camp!" she yelled as she ran past. She wasn't overly fast, but she wasn't slow either. She flexed the fingers of both hand as she gathered lightning chakra in her palms. They lighted up with a blue glow and Midori didn't hestitate to send four rapid bolts of lightning after the retreating man.

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[fieldbox="Karma Minami, #FFFFCC"]
Genin from Team 7, Konohagakure

After being allowed to rest for a bit before heading out on her new mission, Karma set out for the stables. She had the scrolls that she needed to message, a map with a list of locations to go to, along with the names of who to approach and give the message to. She was told that there wouldn't be a need to report back to them, only return the horse to Oakrath if she chose to, they allowed her to leave the horse back in Daril if she was uncomfortable with it.

Once she was given a horse, she settled on it. The horse made a couple of steps on the spot, clearly not overly pleased with the unfamiliar rider, but Karma petted its neck to try and calm it down a bit. She learned how to ride a horse quite some time ago, when her grandmother had less issues with taking her and her siblings out. Being on the saddle again, after a long time, felt somewhat comforting, as if it served as a reminder of better days.

As she begun heading out, Karma gave Oakrath one last look as she made her way towards the main entrance. She wondered if she would ever have a chance to see it again, but not on a mission. As a visitor. She was somewhat skeptical about that as she made her way out the place, deciding to put her focus on getting this done properly.


The mission went by rather flawlessly in Karma's opinion. No one stopped her or asked her questions, and at each of her stops, she managed to find the person she needed to hand the message to without difficulties. She did receive some odd looks from the fact she delivered messages on behalf of Lady Sarutobi but did not know how to communicate in Chonobi, but luckily no one started to poke too deep or refused to cooperate without further confirmation.

Despite the rather smooth trip and message deliveries on her way to Dalir, it still took her longer than she hoped it would take her to get there, a total time of about four and a half days. Karma found the gates of Dalir under the slowly fading sunlight. She was feeling exahusted, and the horse made indications that it wasn't willing to go much further either. Getting off it, she petted its neck a couple of times before beginning to head towards the gates by foot, to give the horse a bit of an easier last few steps as they got to their final destination in their mission. After she showed why she was there, she was allowed inside, and given instructions about where the person she needed to find was at.

About 30 minutes later, she was at Dalir's stables. Knowing it was already late, she asked if she could rest in the barracks for night before heading out the following morning. After some considerations, due to the state of things in the area, she was told that they would allow her a rest, but she will need to depart as soon as possible in the morning, as she wasn't under anyones protection in case anything happened to her. Thanking them for allowing her the rest, she went to the stables to put the horse there for the night before heading to the barracks.

While finding her way to the room she was told to sleep at, she briefly spotted Authun Blackroot, the grandson of Knvell who escorted them for part of the way in the caverns, and the one that led the attack on the Zealots in there. She thought about approaching him then, but decided against it, feeling like it would be disrespectful if she approach him in a state where she could fall asleep in front of his face. Going to the room, she laid on the bed and closed her eyes, immediately falling asleep.[/fieldbox]
 
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[fieldbox=A march through snow]
Wolf Country.
The allied force of Hayate Hyuzu, Kiro Oda and Satoshi Jun.​

It started with the fall of snow from the heavens. It wasn't anything that did concern most of the leading officers in any of the three armies. With the camps being deconstructed, scouts were sent ahead of the armies as a quick march was made towards the location. To the hills where they would have the river at their side, forcing the enemy army to either take another approach or cross it. While word reached with the return of the Tiger Claws and Kumogakure Team 13 that the enemy wasn't too far away from their position, no opposition was met on their way. Not by any human or creature.

Nature, however, seemed to be in the mood to try to make the march as hard as possible. Though some of the Lightning country troops were used to snow, most of the allied force wasn't. And when the march started, the snowfall would increase. It slowed down the progress. Frustration and stress started to increase, decreasing the morale and the atmosphere of the marching troops. Surprisingly enough there wasn't any trouble between the allied force either. Where there wasn't much trust or respect between various parts of the allied force, there wasn't much time or space to bother with it. Everybody seemed to understand that they had to move in line and make certain to do their part to not make the plan fall apart.

Managing to reach the large hill, it was clear that this was probably the best position they could get under the current circumstances. It provided a good look-out position as well a defensive place from which the enemy couldn't just assault their camps. The top of the hill was relatively flat and did support more than enough place for the camps without getting too cramped, as long as they wouldn't construct and make room for large training fields.

Slowly the snowfall started to decrease but it had already covered the landscape in white. A most serene scenery, considered by many, that would soon be disturbed by the prospect of a future battle.
[/fieldbox]
 
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[fieldbox=Some talk and planning, wheat]
Wolf Country.
The new position, near the hill.

A collab between Sketching and Gerontis.

Summary:
Koike and Katsu examine a bit of the scenery together. A few plans are being discussed between the two as they also briefly talk about that Koike Hon is an amazing name for songs. Then they head back to the camp where Koike decides to teach and help Katsu understand a few words and terms in Chonobi, which might help quite well for the upcoming battle.

[spoili]
The sight was quite something else. It reminded him of the highlands near Magnhild, where it could snow. The biting cold against his skin was, however, less welcome but it didn't take away the beauty of the snowy landscape in front of him. Eyeing the landscape he considered that it could very soon be ruined with their troops standing their ground against the expected enemy onslaught. Sighing out loud, creating a small cloud of cold breath. Rolling with his shoulders Koike wondered for a moment if he could perhaps scout the surrounding area. It was bound that there were various groups doing that already but before they would have a meeting on where everybody would take their positions, he would find it comforting to know the surrounding area. Throwing a look back as he turned half around, he saw that troops were still busy with digging out the trenches for the camp. Even though it wasn't audible, Koike was aware that most weren't fond of the snow. It made the digging take longer and requiring more effort. "You know, I wonder how long the snow will last," He said, throwing a look at Katsu, "Never seen this much snow before. And looks like it will start to snow very soon again."

"It doesn't look like it'll melt anytime soon," Katsu said. "This is quite a difficult situation... If this is the usual climate here, they're probably much more comfortable fighting in snow than we will be. Long fights that drag on and on might prove unwinnable for us." He shuddered before speaking again. "Gods it's cold..." he muttered to himself. He looked around at the soldiers making camp. "Let's hope the 13th can remain as eager as they were when we arrived."

He nodded upon hearing Katsu's response. It would be quite a troublesome factor if their adversaries would be used to fight in such conditions. While Koike was attempting to think in how the snow could factor their defense, he wasn't sure without seeing or experience a large battle in the snow how accurate his thoughts would be. "The 13th will remain eager, trust me on that," Koike said, shaking his head lightly, "They will be perhaps even too eager and more of a trouble to hold on to follow the plans that will be soon formed. My biggest worry regarding the battalion is that nobody will try to gain some personal glory." Knowing all too well how some of his kin were eager to prove their worth, certainly with the likes of the Lightning and Republican troops, Koike's features would adopt a worried expression. "You know," he started a second later on a softer tone, "I was wondering about something the other day. Might be a bit of an odd question, but I never got to ask you. But what do you believe in, actually?"

"Let's just hope we can finish our battles quickly," Katsu said with a faint smile. As Koike went on, Katsu looked at his friend, trying to understand what he meant for a few seconds. "Ah, you mean because--I just say it as a manner of speaking, you know? People say 'Oh my god!' not because they're religious but because they're shocked. It's just a figure of speech," he said quickly. "What do I believe in, though? Religiously--I was raised in a more... secular house, I suppose. I've never really given it much thought." After a brief silence, he looked back at his friend. "And, uh... How 'bout you?"

"I don't think that I can call myself really religious. I believe in the fact that once I am dead that I will enter Lord Akumu's hall and be judged. Hopefully, allowed to enter further and perhaps meet some of my... renowned ancestors, I guess," A faint smile crept on Koike's lips as he once more gazed to the east. The direction from which they expected the enemy to approach. "Not that I am hoping to fall in battle or such. Think that I value living a bit more than to meet my dead relatives or kin in the afterlife. And the reason I asked was, well," Koike turned silent.

"You know that I don't want you to be here. Not that I don't appreciate you being here but the problem is that if you get hurt, I blame it on myself. Not to mention that you probably will stop me from doing anything reckless, so I guess that evens each other out. But now with this... large clash approaching, I am just getting a bit worried," throwing a sideways glance at Katsu, the worried expression slided back over Koike's scarred features, "I already hope that it isn't just going to be Hon, Sarutobi and Cho in the afterlife my people believe in. But well, yeah..."

Katsu let out a nervous chuckle before staring into the snow for a few seconds with a faint smile. "I'm afraid of dying, myself, so don't worry about me rushing in to get myself impaled," he said, trying to be comforting. "We all die in the end. Nothing can stop that. I just want to do what I can so that I don't end up spending my life without any of my friends and family. Yeah... I think that's worth fighting for. And hey, who knows?" He flashed a cheeky grin at his friend "Maybe you're right."

Frowning, he wanted to say something but shook his head. "Well, as it has been going on with the weather, I like to think that I am quite often right. That and I suppose that dying isn't in essence a bad thing." His face hardened when he considered what it meant. "We will just be in some major problem if Aiko will hear we allowed ourselves be killed a continent away. I fear that she will just decide to figure out how to drag us by the ear away, even in the afterlife." Shaking his head once more, he did try to consider everything together in a positive manner. "At least, they could make a good story of it. Or song. Koike, is a good name for a song, don't you agree?"

"Don't get ahead of yourself," Katsu said. "You won't be getting any songs until you're nice and old. That's why I'm here, remember? Let's keep on our toes and show these nutheads what we're made of."

"That aside, I still think that Koike is a great name for songs. Just too bad that I never dabbled in composing songs. Would be pretty neat to be able to compose great songs about oneself," Koike said as he briefly rubbed his chin. "And guess we will have to. The only thing that I am still wondering about is the area. The general idea is that they will come to us with superior numbers," Koike pointed at the east as he further spoke, "They will have to go down hill and already I suspect that we can pepper them with arrows. The snow will make it hard for them to move fast and thus easier target for the skirmishers. Then comes the river that they have to cross," pausing for a moment, Koike frowned, "The current isn't strong to make it impossible for them cross it but it will further slow them down. Allowing us to perhaps launch other projectiles at them than just arrows. I was considering if we couldn't perhaps dig a trench even... wait, come with me." Gesturing Katsu to come down the hill with him, Koike was getting more eager as he pondered on a few things.

Reaching down and nearing the bank of the river, he tried to test the ground. "If we were able to dig a trench here, we could delay the enemy's approach and perhaps even settle down a defensive line. Meaning that we would allow our skirmishers and supporting troops to pepper and take down the enemies while the rest hold them off. The only problem is that they will be able to try to cross the river at another point. Perhaps from the south," turning to the direction, Koike scratched the back of his head for a moment, "What do you think?"

Katsu looked at the flowing river with his hand cupping his chin. "Hm. It's a good idea. Though if they scout ahead, they might do as you say and bypass this area altogether. Perhaps if we could make trenches and then cover it up with snow... Perhaps with the help of an earth user, we could take them by surprise once some of them have passed the river. We could divide them, raining arrows on the ones at the river while the ones that passed and are boxed in are finished off by our skirmishiers. It would be quick and with minimal casualties on our part," he said. "Even if they move south after that, they would have lost quite a few of their men while we'd be almost at full strength and with much higher morale. Do you think it's feasible?"

"Yeah, true. And they probably will. Perhaps even more cautious as Saki and her Tiger Claws did manage to cut down a large recon party of the enemy," Koike narrowed his eyes. He could remember the odd mounts that the enemy had used. Would those creatures be capable of carrying their riders through the bitter cold of the river? He was hoping that it would detter them but doubted that it would be the case. "We could try that. I do think that we could else attempt to deploy our cavalry and some infantry as reserves to provide any protection against troops crossing else where. The only trouble that might occur is that we won't have enough to hold the line here. We are facing the odds of three versus one. Maybe..." Koike's voice did trail off but he was getting an idea on how to try to even the odds.

"I might suggest that we will perform a night raid on their camp. They might be with more but we have various units who are more than experienced with launching such offensive operations. That and think it will please a certain captain," Koike thought out loud. The more they were thinking about it, the more Koike saw some chance that they would be able to hold their ground. "From what I had seen last time, the enemy doesn't seem to have good quality weapons or armour. But perhaps they don't regard their scouts as vital or necessary as we do."

"We can't win a 3 on 1 fight in any conventional means, let alone by spreading men too thin. With any kind of little tricks, we should be able to score a win," Katsu said. "A night raid would be good for both recon and subterfuge to help with the battle the next day. We might learn some information about their formation from that kind of raid, so while it's a good idea to have a plan in mind, we should be flexible enough to accomodate unforeseen circumstances. These forces might not be as il equipped as your previous encounter."

"It would make up for a fair fight if they are as ill-equiped as the first encounter," Koike said, chuckling. "But you're right. Though, I have to admit. It would be somewhat of a spectacle to be part of a large battle. Odd, I used to dream of fighting with kin and friends in large battles. Even desiring for a small war with just one or two battles. Just to experience and see what it would be like. Now only to think that it would be best to avoid it all together." Trying to find a spot at the other side, as if the enemy was already upon them, Koike tried to think of more ways how they could hinder their enemies. "We luckily can fortify the large hill on which the camps are build. So that is one place we can withdraw to. Hmmm," following the direction of the river, towards the south, Koike tried to think of something. "Shame that I don't have the resources to make more bombs. Then again, the snow would make it hard to make some trapwire bombs."

"If we end up pushing the enemies south, there'll be a chance they hadn't scouted it out yet, since they didn't expect to go there," Katsu said. "Maybe we could make some fortifications there too, in order to trap them. Even if the front line ends up seeing it, as everyone pours in, we'll be able to clear out quite a few of them. If we get overwhelmed, as you say, we can always withdraw. And if at the night raid, we can find a way to silence any news that might come in to their camp, they'd be flying blind."

Nodding, he thought about Katsu's words. Turning to throw a look at his friend, Koike started to unleash a laugh. "You know, I just realised. I thought that you had been sleeping during the courses and time that we had spend at the War Academy. Seems you have picked up a thing or two, huh? Am wondering how much you would have picked up if you had stayed more awake and took notes," he joked before deciding that they should return back to the camp. "But let's head back. Seems that it is going to snow again and I rather want to be inside the tent and plan the battle than to just freeze my toes off."

Katsu feigned shock, going so far as to take a step back. "I am very studious, thank you very much!" he said in an exagerrated, snobbish tone. His demeanor returned to normal as a wide smile appeared on his lips. "Yeah, let's get near a fire. We should make the best of all the heat we can."


Back at the camp, the amount of activity hadn't cease at all. While the defences were set up and done, there some bit of the trench that stilled needed to be dug out. Luckily for Koike and Katsu, their positions and ranks allowed them to retreat to the tent, which safeguarded them somewhat from the cold. Spotting Akumu laying in a corner, Koike noticed that the dire wolf's lips trembled for a moment, revealing the upper fangs when it noticed that somebody else was about to enter the tent behind Koike. Only to drop the threatening sight noticing that it was Katsu. Getting up, the large canine moved to the Uchiha, with the clear sight of expecting to be petted by Katsu. Katsu quickly dropped, bending his knees to get on Akumu's level, bringing his hands to the sides of the wolf's head, squeezing and playing with him with affection. "You doin' well, Akumu?" The question was answered as the black canine would sit down and lean against Katsu, his jaw opening as he yawned.

"I also have made a decision," Koike began, "The thing is that the 13th brigade is... well, Chonobi. And it might be easier if you understand certain terms and words in Chonobi to be able to react or know what is going on. If you would like me to teach you some of it, just some words."

Katsu turned his attention from Akumu to Koike. He got up and thought for a moment before nodding. "I think that would be helpful. I wouldn't want to be left alone when everyone's retreating," he joked with a light chuckle.

Smiling faintly by the thought of such a situation, Koike nodded. He would speak out a word and repeat it so that Katsu understood what he had said. "Shieldscreen. I assume you know the formation, right? Where we will use the shields and form a formation to protect and form a blockade against enemies. It is somewhat different than," saying another term in Chonobi, Koike would continue in a calm pace, "Shield wall. The thing is that it is also mostly just noticing what others are doing, which might help to understand what is being ordered."

"So," Katsu repeated the first word Koike said, "is 'shield screen'." He repeated the sound a few times before saying the second word repeatedly, each time followed by "Shield wall" until he was satisfied. "Alright, got it."

"Yeah, it isn't that hard, I guess to just learn a few words. The next one is," Koike continued to teach the words such as retreat, assemble and more. Once he was certain that Katsu had understood some of them, he decided on that he would write them down later. "Your position will be near me, so don't think it will be that hard to follow. Then again, I am not sure where we will be at. I am suspecting that we will be at the front line but that it is all up to Hayate to decide."

Katsu nodded as he muttered the words under his breath in order to revise it once more. "We expect them by tomorrow, right?" Katsu asked. "Then any mission to scout their numbers and capabilities will have to be done tonight. Do you have any method in mind?"

"I do expect them to arrive very soon, yes. Can be tomorrow or the next day." Koike answered at first, "I already have instructed Torrad to send out a few scouting parties to be aware of movement at night. With clear instructions to not engage in any conflict. He and his men know how to operate in the dark of the night. Probably even better than we do," Koike said, considering to now rest out and make him and Katsu join Torrad's nightly operation. "I will have a meeting with Hayate soon. I expect then to know what he will expect from the 13th. Though, if Erling decides otherwise, then we have to follow his plan and instructions."

"Usually I feel like I'm much more flexible but this uncertainty is killing me," Katsu grumbled. "At least we'll know what to do soon enough. It just drives me crazy, waiting, you know? Every hour, we might be missing an opportunity to hamper with their progress..."

"I know," Koike said as he felt pretty much the same way. They would probably feel different when facing the enemy army but right now it was worse than any fight that they had anticipated before. "Hopefully, they will be anxious or worse. Think that we can use every advantage against their numbers. Such as also getting some good rest. And supper," Koike said, wondering what they would have for supper. Probably nothing too great. While he had managed to learn to not expect or long for luxuries when being out, he couldn't stop himself from thinking about a good dish of baked potatoes, with some steak as pepper sauce. Together with something as sake or ale, the Hon had some trouble to push the thought of his favorite dish out of his mind.

"Still, it's quite lucky that we have time to make strategies like this. If we'd gotten caught off guard, we'd be wiped out for sure," Katsu grumbled. "Since we can't really do much to stop anything right now, maybe we should go get some grub. We've got some rough few days ahead of us, and it wouldn't hurt to have some energy to stand and up." He looked at the entrance of the tent. "Hell, if they can get a fire going to heat food up, we might actually get a bit warmer with our bowls in hand."

He agreed with that. If they had been caught off guard and forced to face such a large hostile force on their previous position, Koike wasn't so certain if they could make it out. Probably if they had been able, with severe losses. That brought him up on a question he had been thinking about for some time. "I do wonder, where is this large force originating from? This region has been seeing quite some violence and doubt that they could wipe out such a large force. It doesn't make much sense, so it has to come from the east." Koike thought out loud, frowning. "Ah well, you're right. Let us grab some food and see what the plans will be."
[/spoili]
[/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox=The sergeant and the commander, lightsalmon]
Wolf Country.
The new position, near the hill.

A collab between Sketching and Gerontis.

Summary:
Arriving at the location where they are setting up their new camp, Miu is being ordered to head towards Satoshi's commander tent. There Satoshi requests Miu to explain in her own words what happened and how she managed to become elected as the sergeant. He has then a surprise for her as the two briefly continue before heading back to their tasks.


[spoili]
The long march was done and while there was much work to be done, a messenger had searched up Miu and told her that the commander was expecting her. The fact that it was still snowing didn't bode well for the mood of most. The trek through the white landscape was already something that most didn't like. There were various people who were either used to it or had somewhat expected it. While much work was focused on putting the camp on the large hilltop, there were this time more attending to their gear. Sharpening weapons, checking and caring for their armour or doing some practice. The place where Satoshi and most other high ranked officer's tents were located was already up in order. Most of the snow being shoveled away and the elite troops patrolling the site, almost looking ready for a fight with anybody that dared to looked wrong at them.

The messenger would guide Miu to the tent, where he would take his leave as the guards recognised Miu. One opened the flap and would allow her to enter. Inside the large tent it was less cold. The cold biting breeze and snowfall didn't get inside but it wasn't warm enough to make it really comfortable. At a small table was Satoshi bend over some open scrolls and papers. Hearing somebody enter the tent, he looked up and noticed Miu. "Ah, yes, the Sanosuke sergeant who I have heard off." A smile played around Satoshi's lips as he would straighten his back. "Didn't expect you to take the responsibility. There were some chuunin or soldiers who I had figured to pick the position the moment it would be offered."

The men under her watch did well on the march, they kept up the pace and stories were told to keep each other amused on the long and snowy treak. Surprisngly the Chuunins who had an issue with her taking charge didn't say much or caused any trouble during this move, which was fine by her. Once it was done though, the enxt part was getting the camp set up. She could see a bit away the Republic Force was setting their camp up as well, yet as she got ready to start helping the men set everything up she would be meet by a messenger who said the commander requested her. Wondering what she possibly did, she would follow the man all the way to Satoshi's tent where once she went inside, she was greeted by a smile from him as he admitted to being surprised to her taking charge.

Brushing some snow off her shoulders she would plant her fists on her hips and sigh. "Don't remind me, stupid bitch face asked who wanted to be in charge then got snippy when I took it up. What was more funny was the Albino bitch trying to one up me with her.... achievements if you can even call them that. Yet I had to have the biggest balls apparently. So whatca need commander?" Miu would state not even caring about the kind of language she just unleashed infront of the commander of the entire army.

The man stared for a moment at Miu. Blinking twice rapidly, the man would shake his head slowly. "I have been a bit busy but might try to explain who, stupid bitch face is? Or who I must consider Albino bitch?" Satoshi decided to ask, deciding that he could show that he was a bit amused at the sight of Miu speaking in such a 'rough way'. In a way he had expected it from her, considering she was family of Asami Sanosuke herself, but on the other hand it was still somewhat of a surprise. "As for what I need, that will come in a moment. Am seriously wondering what happened when I was attending to other matters."

"Huh?" she muttered when he asked who these people she was insulting were. "Oh right. Bitch face is um....." Miu had to honestly think for a bit as to what the woman said her name was. "Niji Yakei is stupid bitch face. Shes the one with the massive thighs that you could put a harness on. Albino bitch is that Hojo woman. Not Yumeji, but her sister. I don't really know or care for her name but she acts like tough shit when she aint." this was when Miu started taking a few more steps inside the tent. "So pretty much you left to let us decide. All fair so far. No one was speaking up and when somone did which was Stupid bitch face. She asked who wanted to lead. Like really idiot? The commander just told us to decide. So I volunteered." Miu said as she was silent as she cracked her neck. That was when thick thighs almost had a broken nose as she called me out on my experiences. So I retaliated way better which the soldiers seemed to find pretty damn funny. Then Albino bitch came along said she should lead cause experience on sitting on her ass. That was when Toshi said he voted for anyone but Albino Bitch. Then the Soldiers chose me and started calling me Hot Head." Miu concluded but follwoed it up with one more thing. "So I didn't break two Chuunin's jaws. Which I think took real self control." which was when she finally stopped speaking to allow Satoshi to process and make do with what she said.

Niji Yakei? He wasn't entirely sure who that was. But clearly not a friend of Miu. That much was certain. The way how Miu described her both amused as puzzled Satoshi. It was clear that, he thought, that he had to take her words with a grain of salt so he wouldn't continue about Niji's thighs. Hearing who was nicked 'Albino bitch', Satoshi just nodded. That was a name that rang a bell but these past days he had to memorise so many names and what not that he only managed to keep a handful up his mind without confusing them with another. Crossing his arms as Miu continued to explain on what happened. Patiently and clearly amused by the story, Satoshi would let a brief pause follow her story. "I have to admit that I hadn't expected it to go like that. I was hoping that a chuunin or experienced member would take charge and take some of my role over. Clearly, that didn't happen. But," putting a clear emphasis on the word to make it clear that he really didn't mind her being the sergeant now, "This can be a good experience for you. Other than being close to attempting to break two jaws, let us not commit such deeds and just focus on what is more important? Cause regardless of what rank you are, I can't condone any infighting. Certainly not now in this situation," the tone of Satoshi shifted into a more stern one. Gesturing Miu to come closer, Satoshi would turn around and pick something up. Soft jingling of metal rang through the air as he did so.

"I had to let one of the smiths adjust it to your size," he stated, turning around with a chainmail vest, "It is going to be quite vital for what is to come and sergeants do have more right on gear such as this. You will get a gambeson which will keep you further safe. I would rather prevent you being in the medic tents for a prolonged time because you decided to try to remain at the front for as long as possible."

"I wouldn't have actually broken their jaws...... much. But yeah you are stuck with me as Sergeant, so I'll try to keep them in line." Miu would reply back before being motioned to come closer which she did. As he turned around a jingling sounds followed, she stopped moving. "Is this where I say I don't like sur- Oooh!!" Miu said looking at the chainmail that was apparently custom made to her size. He sweetened the deal by saying she would get a gambeson which made her whistle. "My my sensei. Bet your wife loves you if this is how you treat ladies." She said grinning reaching out and holding the chainmail in her hands. Had a bit of weight but nothing that would weigh her down. "You sure though? I appreciate the gesture, but this stuff is good gear. My dad would every now and then make this stuff and I was told I could ram a sword into as ahrd as I wanted and I would only make the man laugh."

"I guess, I like to treat everybody in a nice way." Satoshi replied back to Miu. "And I am sure. You are aware that the enemy outnumbers us and from earlier encounters it is clear that their troops aren't really that well armed. This should keep you somewhat safe. Only thing is that you will need a helmet but that will come later. Besides, a sergeant needs to stand out, don't they?" He asked, though the grin made it clear that it wasn't technically a real question. "Other than that, I will need you to keep the group disciplined and sharp. Make certain that they do their tasks or else report to the quartermaster that they receive half the rations. All of them, if you feel the need to motivate them. Other sanctions that won't be anything physical will be tolerated as well. Only other information is that I do want to see if I can't train you or Toshi before the battle. I am quite aware that you two are still genin but at this moment everybody that is capable of bearing arms and armour will be needed."

"I was informed of the outnumbering yes. By you no less. Yet I will admit, if I can keep better defended things will be a different story. Don't know if you experienced it but only so much adrenaline blocks out." she spoke only to perk up a bit more when she was given the task to keep her group disciplined and sharp, doing as told and if not she was allowed to half rations for them. Anything goes as long as it isn't physical. She couldn't help but grin a bit deviously at this, as Satoshi mentioned training but her and Toshi. "I'm up for it, don't know about Toshi though. I think he feels hes more of a long distance fighter than up close and personal."

Remembering that, Satoshi realised that he really was letting things get to him. Hoping that he wasn't forgetting anything, he noticed the shift in Miu's features. Perhaps it hadn't been a good idea but then again, he doubted that Miu would do anything to invoke him taking her sergeant position away. When she brought up Toshi, Satoshi did remember the boy's fighting preference. "Yes, I know. Sadly, the weapon of choice he had when we previously trained isn't going to work that good in the upcoming fight. I wish I had more time to introduce you lot to how formation fighting works. There isn't much room to swing or hold your weapon. A wrong move can easily prick an eye out of the person next to you or cause some other awkward situations to happen. Still, you and the others will be in the unit I will be personally leading. And that will not be far away from the front lines, I imagine."

What? Toshi never mentioned sparring with Satoshi to her. Wonder why that would be, hell she would brag about it. Did he lose badly? Is that why he wanted to tarin both of them. "Well I'm up for it, I'm sure if you command it he can't really decline it. Besides I doubt he knows how to use a bow. Well let me know when this is happening. It might be fun to have a spar with you!" Miu said grinning at the idea of facing off against the commander.

"If I would command and demand everything then I doubt that I would be able to claim much respect of both my students and troops," was Satoshis initial reply, "And I am not certain. We can see to that later, if sparring with me is any fun." For a moment Satoshi wondered how much alike Miu was to Asami. Would be quite troublesome if the girl was capable of boasting the same fighting spirit and skills as the Red Devil herself. "In any case, unless you have any questions I do think that you should return to make certain that the troop keep up the work."

"Eh sometimes you gotta demand though. Can't expect everyone to polietly accept shit. Every now and then you have to reach out and just smack an idiot. Sometimes thats how you get a message across. yet you consider it. I would love to spar with you commander!" a beam of joy was written on her face at what he said about seeing late rif sparrign with him is fun. He would then dismiss her if she had no further questions. "Nope, I should head back and make sure those chuunins are pulling their weight and not letting the soldiers do everything. Thanks again commander." Miu said giving the man a salute as she would turn and walk away, the chainmail jingling with eevry step she took out of the tent and back to her group.
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[fieldbox="And Then There Were Two, #0033cc, dashed, 10, Tahoma"]
Taishiro Kanai | Team 14 Genin | Kirigakure ​

Whenever sensei didn't respond, it took the genin a few moments before he realized how stupid a question he asked. Rubbing his forehead lightly, Taishiro waited for his teammates to arrive. Shortly after he had arrived, another boy with a large sword arrived. Not the one who had been on the mission with them then, perhaps he was new or simply was occupied during the mission? He supposed it didn't particularly matter. Not long after he had arrived, the girl from the mission arrived. He couldn't recall her name, as they hadn't gotten to talk much on the mission itself. He watched the two quietly before Hayashi-Sensei spoke up. So Shin had been reassigned, driving home to Taishiro that mistakes wouldn't be tolerated. Swallowing anxiously when he heard their task, he wondered how they were to do it. They needed to get an idea for what she could do, first. Information would be an ally in this case.

Staring at the the boy with the large sword, who had just introduced himself as Hisahiro, Taishiro was about to respond when the other member spoke up. Introducing herself as Aya, then promptly declaring she wouldn't be taking part in this exercise. With furrowed brows, the boy looked towards her. Wondering why she thought that was a good idea. With a small sigh of annoyance, as he was far from in the mood for that, he looked towards the boy once more. "Taishiro. Now isn't the time for chatting. We need to get an idea what she is capable of, no doubt she's got something planned. Try an attack since you're close quarters. Test the waters, let's not risk anything yet." He said before taking a step back, and then throwing two shuriken in long arcs towards the woman. One aimed for her upper body, a while the other aimed lower. Hopefully her reaction would provide some insight...[/hr][/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox=Making preparations, burlywood]
Pinedale, from Oakrath towards Dalir!
A (relative short) collab between Alice and Oetje.

Summary:
In the city of Dalir, in the region of Pinedale, Meilin spend some time with the present Blackroots, Sarutobi and few Hon who have mustered together a fighting force. But it isn't yet everybody and with the enemy not advancing at a rapid pace, the day is spent in training and getting to know those who have gathered a bit better.​

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The night, after arriving in Dalir.​

She wasn't sure how to show it. To be grateful for the fact she was allowed to stay and join the future clash against the Zealots and their allies. But it seemed that she also had a small room for herself. It wasn't luxurious at all but she didn't need to share it with anybody. Even while Meilin had stated she couldn't accept and wouldn't mind sharing a bunker, Lord Blackroot had made a rather 'compelling' case when he insisted on that she would be given a small room for her own. Entering the small room, Meilin wondered why. The first thought was because she would sooner or later return to Konohagakure, to report on what had happened. To be on the positive side of the Blackroots and Sarutobi could mean that she wouldn't report anything bad about them. Not that she could think of that they were doing anything wrong. If anything, they were quite in their right, rising to defend their own homes and land. Dropping her bag on the bed she would release a sigh before dropping herself on the bed. The sounds of people cheering, singing and laughing as the music from the hall was still faintly audible. Throwing a look at the door, Meilin wondered for a moment if she would be able to enjoy pleasant evenings with her own family. The thought of the cold winter days when they had been together, seeking comfort and shelter in each other's company and the warmth of the house, sharing many funny stories. Or listening to her father, speaking in the most exciting ways about various stories and myths. Of heroes of old, going on an adventure or attempting to do what seemed impossible. Or hearing how they would overcome the odds with wit or sheer willpower. Slowly Meilin would lay on her back as she continued to listen to the faint sounds from the hall.

It would never return to normal.

She was aware of that. Painfully aware. Her mother was now buried and had joined their ancestors in the afterlife. Perhaps even watching from where she was. The mere thought made Meilin's eyes narrow. She hadn't ever been the easiest to have around. She had done quite the things that she shouldn't have done. Mischief and bad things that she blamed on the fact that her parents cared more for the likes of her younger brothers. Wishing that they were gone or that she wasn't a disappointment. At least, now she knew a bit better. She felt even sorry for what she had done and wanted that she could just say that to her parents. Sadly, that would be somewhat impossible now.
"Hey mum," Meilin began, her voice a bit shaky as she clenched her right hand into a fist, "Not sure how much you can see or hear from the halls of our ancestors. I am pretty certain that I would spend my time with bothering the more prestigious guys and girls there but..." Meilin's voice trailed off.

"I am sorry. Really," a pause followed as Meilin didn't want to cry or make it sound that she was about to, "I guess I was a bit dumb. Just a bit, mind you. But I am working on it all. Dad is a tough one. Willing to bet that he won't go down, even if he had to face fifteen boggarts with just a broom. And the others will be alive. Going to make sure that they will be safe and sound back. Really, you can count on me for that... I do guess that makes you needing to wait for us somewhat longer but knowing you, you would like some time on your own. What I am trying to say, I guess, is that I will make things alright. "

It became silent, save it for the sounds from the hall. Staring at the ceiling, Meilin was hoping for a certain sign. Something that could let her know that her mother or perhaps an ancestor had heard her words. That she wasn't just alone.
A sigh passed from Meilin's lips as she closed her eyes.

If she could just make things go back to normal. To how it used to be...

The next morning.​

Waking up pretty early, Meilin would head into the hall. There were a large number of people enjoying breakfast. Much like the previous evening, there was a cheerful atmosphere present. Almost as if there wasn't a large threat approaching them. As if they wouldn't see be shedding blood or bleeding in the attempt to take the threat of the Zealots down. Wanting to join a table, Meilin would feel somebody tapping on her shoulder. It was Amund, pointing to the table where Knvell Blackroot was sitting. A bit surprised, Meilin would just walk with Amund to the table where Knvell, the lord of the Blackroot, was enjoying some simple breakfast. With only Authun being present at his table.
"Lord Blackroot," Meilin said as she would incline her head and salute towards the man. Uncertain what more she should say, she waited for the man to reply back.

Authun looked up from his breakfast, flashing a smile towards Meilin. Knvell also looked up, clearly in thoughts. He would clear his mouth before speaking back to Meilin. "Ah, yes, join us. I am not certain if you had much chance to meet my grandson, Authun." The man began, as a young woman would come and bring Meilin's breakfast.

"Thank you, lord,," Meilin replied before taking her seat. Nodding slightly, she would once more answer Knvell. "I have. Briefly travelled twice with Authun." Mumbling thanks for the breakfast, it wasn't anything too luxurious. But as she dug in, it was quite good. Certainly the cheese. It was just soft and delicious that Meilin almost forgot the company she was in. "May I ask, my lord, what will happen today?"

Amund would also take a seat, soon also enjoy his share of breakfast. Knvell would be forced to clear his mouth again, taking a sip of his water before answering Meilin's question. "Today we will make some preparations. Various scouting units have been moving out. If matters go as I expect them, then the enemy will soon be close to a village that goes by the name of Homdar. It might take them a day or three while we can relatively approach Homdar in a day's march. Authun will stay behind with the majority of the city's garrisson and a small detachment of my troops. We will then make further preperations at Homdar."

The words of Knvell caused Authun to look up as he was about to say something. However, he didn't say a word and continued breakfast. His hands trembled a bit as his features started to pale but yet no word of protest would leave his lips. Amund also seemed okay with the plan as he would not say anything of a protest against Knvell's decision. "You said that you were a member of the Cho Guard, right?" Knvell asked, clearly wondering about something. "Is it true that you lot still make... certain sacrifices at moonlight?"

Meilin remained silent, much like Amund and Authun. It would take a blind man, and perhaps that wouldn't be enough, to see that Authun wasn't agreeing or approving of Knvell's decision. But he didn't say anything, which Meilin found both admirable as well realising that it was only a subtle testimony of Knvell's authoritaty over his people. They really trusted him with his judgement, so it seemed. As Knvell brought up the statement she was part of the Cho Guard, Meilin just nodded. Chewing on a bite she hadn't, however, expected the question. Yet when Knvell asked the question, Meilin wouldn't instantly answer. Would be a bit difficult anyways with her mouth not emptied. Clearing her mouth Meilin decided to answer the question.
"We do what must be done, my lord."

The, cryptic, answer of Meilin caused Knvell to snicker. "Good! Soon we shall water the ground with blood and sweat!" The man would rise up from his seat as he raised his right hand into a fist up, gathering the attention of those in the hall. "Let the ancestors watch and enjoy the spectacle we shall give them! And let it be known from then on, once more, that nobody but nobody, will be able to just enter our land with ill-intention and in arms! Not with us making it clear who rule this land!"

Cheers, shouting and fists coming down on tables would resonate through the hall after Knvell's words.


It was happening. Meilin wasn't sure how she should feel as she stood ready. A large line of Blackroots and Dalir soldiers as watchmen, marching in a relative calm pace as many citizens would watch them go. Meilin noticed that some threw a flower on the ground to the side or offered either a piece of red cloth. Some children along the side offered something as small as a toy to the bypassing men and women. Judging by their faces, even the children were aware of how grim the situation was. If they wouldn't be able to repel the incurssion then they would return to a destroyed home. Biting her lower lip, a certain anger started to rise in Meilin. An anger that desired to see every single Zealot's life ending in the most painful and agonizing manner she could think or deliver. Her eyes narrowed as she couldn't push the thought quickly away on how her own siblings and father could very well at this moment suffer.

Even if it would take her to overcome the like of every damned deity or god in existence, she would make certain that she would see those responsible suffer. Regardless if they were Zealot, Uchiha or something else.
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[fieldbox=A friend and father?, teal]
Akinian Empire,
Vindex, the capital of the Tokugawa clan.

A collab between Fieryfly and Gerontis.

Summary:
Shozo and Zakito have a talk regarding where Hisoka is. Zakito won't budge, much to the frustration of Shozo. The talk doesn't last long before the two decide it is enough.


[spoili]
With the meeting concluded, there wasn't much to stay around. Where some perhaps did stick and decided to speak or interact with each other, Zakito and Kenta would head towards the door. It had been a rather fruitful meeting, so far in Zakito's opinion. Everything seemed to go much smoother than the first one where that Kusanagi representative had basically been a big nuisance. Nothing that had truly upset anything with the realm but it had been a killer of his patience, that was for sure. Exiting the room, Zakito didn't need to ask or look that Kenta was waiting for his answer on his unspoken question. Explaining something in Chonobi on a soft tone, the older Hon just nodded and would take his leave with some of the bodyguards. Zakito would just stand in the hallway for a moment, watching the old man heading back on the route. Word had to travel to Maghild that he would soon try to go and set some things straight. Raising his right hand up his nosebridge, Zakito closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose for a moment. Turning around, he would wait as he hadn't forgotten yet about Shozo and his request. If it wasn't bad enough that he wasn't on friendly terms with the Uchiha leader, the topic was quite the sour point for him.

Shozo would leave the room without haste. Sure he was impatient and sure he wished for answers, but he had let his emotions slip past his carefully crafted diplomatic rethoric once and that was enough. He didn't have to run after the Hon leader as a puppy looking for its bone. So he was patient with getting up and calm in walking pace. When he exited the room he found the Hon leader waiting for him. There was some satisfaction in that, having the man wait for him instead of the other way around.

He gave the man a nod. "Lord Hon, you perhaps have more experience with the Tokugawa halls than I. Would there be a place where we can talk among ourselves or would you prefer discussing this in a hallway?"

Zakito began with just a nod towards Shozo. Hearing the questions, Zakito glanced around. Gesturing Shozo to come with him, Zakito shot an order to one of his guards to inform Lord Tokugawa that he would use one of the nearby rooms. The remaining of his guard wouldn't intrude on following into the room but setting it off. Once inside a room, that seemed to be somebody's study, Zakito felt somehow the need to be on guard. This man hadn't been his friend nor political ally. They had some mutal goals but also a lot of differences. Placing his hands behind his back Zakito decided to start the conversation. "Lord Uchiha, before we start, I must remind you that I am obliged to keep some matters of the state secret. Even if it is about your son. If you desire to know such information then you have to request an audience with her grace."

"I am very much aware of that, Lord Hon," Shozo replied as soon as Zakito had finished his sentence. He had followed the man to the little study. It was a strange thing, standing here with the man who was in so many ways his enemy. If history had shown anything then it was that the Hon and the Uchiha did not get along. And here the two leaders were, without guards, in a room together. Shozo's father would have scolded him for it. While Shozo had fighting capabilities - you couldn't be leader of the Uchiha without them - this man before him was younger, more experienced, and had something that didn't belong to him as added bonus. A Sharingan eye. Shozo held no illusions that if Lord Hon decided that he had to die here, he would die right now before any guards could arrive.

"We all deal in secrets, it is our most potent currency. I am not asking you to share those secrets. I asked a very simple question: where is my son? You, consequently, lied to me about him being on a mission for the state while I know he is not." His tone was surprisingly calm even through the accusation he was throwing at Zakito. "I am sure you are aware, seeing as you are such a close... friend of my son, that his relationship with me is somewhat strained. However, some rules have always been clear between us and have stayed clear. Hisoka does inform me when he leaves. He knows the pain he caused his mother when he disappeared for two years. Hence I will ask you the same question again and I would appreciate it if you would be truthful in telling me that he is not on a mission from the state. I don't care if you know exactly where he is or not, I don't mind if you don't tell me the exact reason why he is gone, but I wish to get some inkling as to why. My son. Is. Missing."

He listened but Zakito wasn't really interested in how Shozo would bring it. He didn't even consider the man he was in the room as a clan leader of a prominent clan. It was a worried father that tried to get aware. Aware of information that shouldn't be leaked out. For a moment it did occur to Zakito that his relationship with Hisoka was probably better than it was with Shozo. Just one more note to the list why it wasn't easy for him and Shozo to cooperate. If there was any Hon or Uchiha that could be paired to resemble their history and rivalry, then they were the living embodiment. For a moment he wonder what his ancestors would wish him to do. The majority would likely have him to end the Uchiha life right here and now, for how he treated in the past and even in the current. But that wouldn't happen. He wasn't his ancestors and sadly for them, they were dead.

"If you accusse me of lying, then this conversation will be short, Lord Uchiha," Zakito calmly answered at first, "But the answer is that I can't lay out precise details. Matters of a diplomatic nature required the Governor of the Fire province to move with haste. Matters which are to kept secret until the Empress herself decides if they can be just shared with... others." He was first considering family but decided against it. He wouldn't win any personal or political gain with angering Shozo. Nor did he enjoy the satisification. If things were around and it was Akimoto that was lost, then Zakito wasn't sure if he would have kept it at words to figure out where his child was off to.

"You said that before. Twice now. I can assure you, I am more than aware of the fact that you cannot lay out details. I am not accusing you of lying, Lord Hon. I am fearing that you do not know the answer yourself if you are so reluctant with your words. 'Matters of diplomatic nature' are nice words, but they do not say anything. I am not saying that you are supposed to trust me with information, I know the world doesn't work like that. But I am sure you could give me more than that. A direction. An indication of time. Something actually substantial." There was an intent in his words as Shozo spoke as he stared Zakito straight in his one eye.

He mentally sighed as he was aware he had said it twice. He wanted to say it again just to once more state that he wasn't able to answer the question, due to various factors. "I am certain that they don't bring any comfort and sadly, I am not able to say anything of comfort, Lord Uchiha," Zakito said, feeling a bit tired as he wished that he could just leave this conversation and haul Hisoka back. When he would be back, there would be a debt to pay. A big one. "If you wish to desire to learn more then you need to request the Empress for such. I can only repeat what I have said before. I understand that it isn't just about concern of the governor of the largest province in the realm, but that it is more about your son. I would not accepted the answer I gave myself if it would be about my own son but I hope you do understand that I can't just put aside my duty every time a worried parent asks me where their children are."

Shozo's eyes narrowed ever so slightly. "Except that this child is the Governor of the Fire Province and his father should have a little bit more rights to know what is going on," he said almost venomously for a second, before reeling himself back in. "But then to the Empress I will take it. If she even has an answer. Though you reactions and denial makes me doubt that." He paused for a moment and his eyes flickered through the room as if the walls had ears. "Let me then ask this, something that partains no information whatsoever. Do you believe he will come back soon, or will I be waiting two years without news again?"

Standing there, gazing with a calm expression at Shozo, Zakito remained silent. He had a fitting reply at the ready that Shozo had no such rights, no matter what he would demand or state. Nor would he expect that Shozo would gain more information from Kiyomi. If anything, he was starting to pity the man. Something that was new and slightly confusing. The last question was met with Zakito frowning slowly. "I expect him to come back but I have no estimation of time." He answered this time, deciding to not further it.

"Then I will take the word of his friend for it." There was a weird undertone in Shozo's voice, not an accusion, but almost a warning that it better be the case or the friend would have a problem. "Then I believe we have nothing to say to each other anymore unless you wish to discuss the matter of the gift with me here as well."

"From a friend," Zakito gestured, "To a father, you can take my word. As for the gift, I must prepare it. I am most certain it will brighten your mood, Lord Uchiha." That having said, Zakito wouldn't first leave the room but almost with a certain kind of friendly courtesy would wait for the man to leave first. There were thoughts he wanted to shape into words but it wouldn't get him or Shozo anywhere. Not today.

Shozo nodded his head twice at Zakito's words. "I suppose I will look forward to it then," he said. With another sharp nod to show some half way decent respect, Shozo stepped past Zakito, extremely conscious of the fact that he was turning his back to the leader of a clan of whom many wouldn't mind seeing him dead. As he exited the room and made his way through the palace he was met with his guards. He had not gotten the information that he wanted and as much as he wished that he could discredit Zakito's words completely, the option of Hisoka not being on a diplomatic mission was even less comforting.

But he supposed that that had to wait for now. Now, he had to find Lord Hanta.
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Nothing Held Back

Hisahiro Matsui | Team 14 Genin | Kirigakure


Aya's words shocked Hiro. His household had been one of ninja loyal to the old ways. He had been taught that it was forgiveable to retreat, it was forgiveable to fail, but it was unforgivable to refuse orders from up the chain of command. "Aya," he said with a frustrated sigh as he drew his sword "I can't make you fight. All I can do is ask that you reconsider. If we fail, we fail, but Sensei has given us a mission, so if you aren't willing to help, maybe..." He was practically choking on his tears and rage now. He had put so much work in at academy, he had obeyed when the orders had come down to abandon ninjutsu, he had failed his first academy exam because of rustiness, and now that he had finally gotten the chance to earn his place among the ranks of the ninja, to make his parents proud, this girl wasn't going to even try. "maybe you should..." he knew what he was about to say was stupid and hurtful, but he couldn't help himself. "Maybe you shouldn't be a ninja."

With all of that off his chest, his heart was lighter. He lined up the point of his sword with Sensei, held the hilt close to his chest, and charged at Sensei. by the time he would reach her, he would be going quite fast. If she dodged back, he would extend his arms after her. If she dodged to the side, he would swing his sword at her. If she tried to jump over him, he would lift the point of his sword to follow her. Regardless of what she would do, he wouldn't stop his charge.
 
[fieldbox=And the start is... , royalblue]
Mika Hayashi.
Jounin-sensei of Team 14 | Republic of the Water Country | Kirigakure, training field #5.

Mika just waited and watched. The three genin would react in a manner she had expected from them. The new guy, Hiro, suggested huddling together. If this was a real combat situation then they would not have gotten the time to do so. It would just present a chance for any enemy to pin them into an awkward position. But the purpose of this test wasn't to see how they would just do. Nor was this a real combat situation, so Mika decided to allow them to try to interact together. Something that saw a smile dawning on her lips as things weren't working out as one would suspect from a team of genin.

Aya had decided that this wasn't going to be her fight. She took her distance and would only join in if this would go well for the other two. Something that wasn't honourable or fair but how much did that matter? Who expected honour from a shinobi? Or if argued by the fact that they were part of the regular military, from a common trooper? No, Mika could more or less guess why Aya decided for such a decision.

This decision wasn't going without some hint of annoyance or frowned looks from her team members. Taishiro didn't respond much to Aya's decision, stating that Hiro should get moving in first. Throwing two shuriken, Mika wondered what Taishiro would get in information to what she would do. Simply moving backwards, in a quick skid, she would evade the thrown weapons. "And? Learned anything?" Was the mocking question, thrown towards Taishiro, from Mika.

While she was expecting Hiro to move instantly up to that, likely trying to give his big sword a swing or two, Mika was gazing at the newest member of the team. Was he... getting emotional? A sigh escaped the woman's lips as her eyes half closed. "You got to be kidding me..." She whispered to herself, listening to Hiro literally stating that Aya shouldn't perhaps become a shinobi. If he only was aware what kind of background or Aya had experienced, he would speak differently. Then again, wasn't her bone to pick. When the genin focused his attention at Mika, the jounin considered to use one of her tactics to throw the genin from their feet. In a manner of speaking.

Deciding against it, as Hiro came charging straight at her, Mika would form just one hand signal - Tiger - with her left hand. The technique she would employ wouldn't work instantly but slowly she would start to vanish in thin air. She would remain mostly visible when Hiro came up close and gave a swing with his large sword. Honestly, a bit faster than she had assumed he would be with the clunky choice of a weapon. Evading the large sword by moving to the side, going into the direction the sword was swung at, forcing the boy to either moving back into a stance or making a twirl. The problematic fact for any following up attack from that point on would be that Mika was almost fully invisible.
[/fieldbox]
 
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[fieldbox="Still Nope, orchid, solid"]
Aya Oda- Genin of Team 14

Seeing the annoyed look from Taishiro Aya would simply return the gesture with a wave of her fingers, going back to resting her head on the palm of her hand. Wondering if this would be over quickly or if sensei would drag this out. She should have brought a book with her to read while this was going on. Then the newcomer Hiro seemed to be getting.... emotional over her choice. Saying that sensei had given them a mission and if wasn't going to do it that she should... should what? He took his time getting the words out, however when he did it wasn't what she was expecting. It was wayyy funnier than she thought it would be, so much so that she couldn't hold back the laugh that made its way to her throat. So from behind the two young males, a resonating girlish laughter would echo. Her sitting posture turned into one of her laying back on the ground holding her stomach as her laugh continued to come out of her.

Spending a good minute laughing she wiped a tear from her eye, a tear of joy. Watching Taishiro throw shuriken to no avail and be taunted, then watched funny man charge at sensei who did the technique that made her opt out in the first place. "Boys will be boys. Gotta get their asses handed to them by a woman before realizing the error of their ways." she spoke mostly to herself proceeding to stand up and walk further away. Now deciding to rest against a tree for some back support, as she would watch her teammates get the stupidity beaten out of them.... she hoped.[/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox="Breakfast without Breaks, #FFFFCC"]
Genin from Team 7, Konohagakure
At the Dalir Barracks Dining Hall


A Collab between Aliceee and Nim

Summary:
Karma goes to eat some breakfast and ends up talking to Authun Blackroot about recent events that she had witnessed and took a part of. She ends up getting a new order from a very high ranking source.​

[spoili]
After waking up and making sure she hasn't left anything behind, she started making her way to the dining hall in the barracks. While her rations lasted her all the way here, the extra time on the way meant that her calculations were wrong, and now she needed to go and buy herself some more rations for the way. Wondering if she could also eat breakfast while there before heading out to return the horse, she entered the dining hall and pretty quickly noticed Authun was sitting at one of the tables, eating breakfast alongside a few other men. Seeing how there weren't many men in the hall, Karma approached him in a quiet and polite manner, briefly wondering if they had already departured on to the battlefield and for some reason, Authun stayed behind.

Once she reached his table, she gave him a brief smile "Good to see you in one piece, Captain Blackroot. After we went our seperate ways in he Catatombs, I didn't know if you made it out or not." She said, and then thought about how he might not remember her name due to their lack of communication in the catatombs "I'm Karma Minami, part of the team that Meilin Cho led that escorted you and your men down into the Catatombs." She said, giving him a bow as she did.

Authun frowned at first when Karma spoke up. One of the men at the table eyed the woman and said something in Chonobi, that caused various other men at the table to burst in laughter. Authun, however, seemed to ignore the comment as he nodded towards Karma. Gesturing that she could take a seat, the man reacted back in a friendly fashion. "Ah, yes. I remember you. Good to see you're still alive." For a moment Authun would break off and order something in Chonobi. Turning to Karma as a servant would be busy to get some breakfast for Karma, Authun would continue the conversation. "But where is the rest? I believe that you were with more people? Did something happen on the way to the Packmaster?"

Seeing his gesture, Karma sat down in an open spot and listened to his questions "We encountered and took down a Boggart while still in the Catatombs, but beyond that not much has happened to us in regards of attacks, fortunately for us. I know Meilin should've passed by here before me, heading off towards the battlefield. We were still following her lead when she decided to leave us behind. That did not sit well with the rest of my team when they decided to request to talk to Lady Sarutobi in Oakrath. Things did not go well for them, and she ordered them to leave the clan lands before they were excecuted. I was fortunate to get to talk to her alone, and be given a message delivery mission, one which ended here, in Dalir." She explained, looking down towards her feet "It seems that my team has split apart, something I fear could only lead to worse things. But, I suppose those matters aren't your concerns, as you have bigger matters on your head right now." She said, and looked around at the rather vacant appearing dining hall.

"I assume the people going for the battlefield already left?" She asked in a polite manner.

Listening to what Karma said, Authun frowned for a moment but said nothing. Once Karma was done and asked her question, Authun would respond back. "They have, yes," was the answer, followed up by Authun's comment on the story of Karma. "Why not? Isn't it normal to listen to your leader? If that would happen with us, some big consquences would occur afterwards." Though still speaking in a friendly fashion, the fact that the team had disobeyed Meilin's order confused him. "Besides, which lady did you speak? The council of Pinedale has various ladies. Unless you mean Lady Oakrath, though she isn't really the official ruler of the city or region, you know," the man added with a faint smile.

So the men and women heading to the battlefield already left. That was somewhat unfortunate in her eyes, but Karma's expression did not change as she listened on to Authun "I agree that it is normal to listen to your leader, but in this case Meilin decieved us. She told us to meet her in a certain place, and then failed to do so herself. As for which Lady we spoke to, I did not refer to her as such, but I believe she was called Lady Ragnhild. And I have learned it is best to try and not assume things on people unless I can be certain that is what they are. Especially after a mission my team had in Keishi." She said, and watched as the servant came back with the breakfast. Her eyebrows rose slightly as she gave Authun an uncertain look if she could eat this, as she haven't even requested anything.

"And how are you aware that she deceived you? Did she mention that she would be back in a specific amouunt of time or did you guys just distrust her and decide to venture on your own decision?" Authun questioned, finding it a bit surprising and amusing. He was wondering about the situation but he wouldn't do much about it anyways. Hearing that they had spoken to Ragnhild, Authun clicked his tongue. "She is a feisty one, she is. If that tall man and the other Cho were send away, then they must have rather poor diplomatic skills or no understanding how affairs are being handled in this region of the realm." The glance that Karma gave him regarding the breakfast was subtly answered with a nod. "So, what will you do now?"

Authun had good questions. After his nod, Karma looked at the food before picking up a fork "Thank you." She told, looking at him Authun before grabbing the first bite of the food. After eating nothing but rations of rice cakes and simple food, it was nice to eat something different. As she chewed, she thought about what would she tell him. Meilin told them she will be with them shortly, yet afterwards Kensuke decided to have them go back to the Oakrath barracks. Swallowing, her sight moved to Authun once more "She told us that she will be with us shortly. After waiting a while, Kensuke begun spotting men leaving. He couldn't spot Meilin leaving, but made the assumption that she left us, and made the call to go back to Oakrath's barracks and then find someone higher ranking over there to speak to. It is clear that you understand how poorly things went. I felt humbled that Lady Ragnhild told me stay while she banished the rest of my team, after I only requested that Meilin will be looked after, and if possible that they ensured her safety as they would do with any of your men." She said and grabbed another bite to eat.

Another moment of silent eating before Karma kept speaking "As for what I will do now, I have completed the mission that Lady Ragnhild gave me. She told me that I could go and look after Meilin following this, but her brother, Frode, gave me different instructions, to return the horse to Oakrath and then go back to Konohagakure, as none of them are responsible for me and they do not wish to be held accountable in front of the First Major General should anything happen to me. Seeing how I missed my chance to see Meilin here prior to her departure, and I have no further instructions from her or my team leader, I will follow the instructions that Frode gave me. I will obtain a bit more rations so I will have enough for my travel back, and then head out. I do not wish to cause any problems to any of the higher ranks in these lands." She said and then went back to eating in silence.

One of the men at the table scoffed and grumbled something but Authun just threw a sideways glance, which silenced any likely comment on Karma's story. Turning his attention back to Karma, Authun leaned a bit forward. "I understand that you guys decided to make your own decision instead of staying where your leader could find you. If the decision was made, there has to be a reason to it. As long as you don't know the reason behind the decision, I find it just odd to call it deceiving. But what happened has happened. After all, without being informed I wouldn't have trusted the likes of you or the group you were with and just ordered you to remove yourself from this land and region. Enough trouble as it is. We can't, and certainly now, use more trouble. If you do wish to have some provisions, I can share some." Was Authun's answer. He did think about something and decided to throw in another question.

"Was there anything that was said that made Ragnhild decide to kick you or those others out? Anything that was said specific or suggested?" Authun asked, taking a sip of his drink afterwards.

As she ate a couple more bites, Karma paid attention to Authun's words. It was true, she should've have called it decieveful. Perhaps she was slightly rushing to certain conclusions after all. Looking up and cleaning her mouth with a napkin, she thought back to the meeting after hearing his question "Before I tell you what I believe made Ragnhild kick the rest of the team out, I ask that you remember this is my point of view. Her decisions could have been made from entirely other reasons." She said, took a small sip from her glass and then moved to focus her sight on Authun.

"When we arrived in Oakrath, a new person that claims to have been waiting for our team joined us. She followed Meilin and then Kensuke's instructions. When we were given audience with Lady Ragnhild, there were sevearl things that were spoken of. Blame on who is responsible for what happened to my team, potential endangerment due to Kensuke's reputation, but what I really think was the downfall was when the newcomer decided to speak up. She started saying that Meilin shouldn't have been trusted at all, that Meilin is actually traitor. Following this, the newcomer tried making things better but made them even worse, to the point where archers held their bows at the ready towards us. Someone who didnt know anything about Meilin was the reason the rest of the team got kicked out immediately, with no further aid from the Sarutobi. I personally thought the words of both Kensuke and the newcomer were wrong. While Meilin did appear to leave us behind, she was still a member of our team. We still needed to try and get to her. They gave up on her. I didn't."

Grabbing a hold of her cup, she took another sip "But now, despite my efforts, this is as close as I will get to her. I have been given instructions from people who are responsible for these lands, and I do not intend on disobeying them." She said, and then looked at the food briefly "Any provisions you can share are deeply appreciated, captain Blackroot. Thank you." She added before going back to eating the food.

Authun nodded. He understood what Karma said but i was a different story if he would let himself be affected or not by it. Hearing the story, Authun frowned. It was also clear that some others at the table listened into the conversation but if they had their opinion, they didn't voice it. Waiting for Karma to be done, the confused expression was still present on Authun's features. "So, you guys literally called your team leader a traitor, because you couldn't wait or have the patience to wait longer?" Some muttering in Chonobi followed Authun's words. From the looks of some heads shaken and a few disappointed as amused looks, it would be clear on what the bystanders thought of this all.

"I can understand that the Nimatsu's presence would... make certain people a bit unhappy. I have stayed and lived at Magnhild during Katsuro's reign. Wasn't exactly a pretty one but he had good reasons to do what he did. Ragnhild probably didn't want to create any tension between Pinedale and the neighbouring Hon houses. Even though, I do imagine that Gunnvor and his troops wouldn't have given any damn about it. Might also be because you lot didn't report back to the capital," Authun would produce a folded letter from his pocket. It had already been opened as he would shove it over the table towards Karma.

"I already read it as it was brought here this morning. Apparently the mission was just to deliver information. If only with our consent, the team would be allowed to stay longer. But it is still then the team's responsibility to report back when matters shift or change. Something that could have easily be done. From either locations you and the team were at in the Blackroot Vale or in Oakrath. So yeah," shrugging lightly, Authun continued, "Without any knowledge, the threat at hand and tensions rising north, I would have most likely put you and the entire team in prison until word would have confirmed that you weren't spies. But what is done is done, I guess."

When Authun begun to speak, Karma placed her fork and knife and looked at him. When he said that they called their team leader traitor in the manner he did, it stung somewhat. She had said that she did not agree with Kensuke and the newcomer's words. Listening further, she watched as the Blackroot captain shoved an envelope towards her. She quickly grabbed a hold of it and took out the letter. An order from First Major General Zakito Hon for team 7 to immediately head back to the Capital. As she listened to the remainder of his words, she folded the letter and placed it back in the envelope "What's done is done, yes. I suppose I placed my faith in both team leaders to take care of such matters." She said, and pushed the envelope back towards Authun.

She took a moment to think about this. Neither Kensuke or Meilin reported back to the capital that they were aiding past the initial information mission. She had figured that one of them would, but apparently she was wrong. With her appetite sated from the breakfast and the new order known, Karma looked at Authun "I will send a message to the First Major General that Kensuke and most of my team are already on their way back, and that I will arrive a few days after. Thank you for showing me this, Captain Blackroot." She said "And thank you for this breakfast. I suppose I best begin heading back now with haste." She added before standing up. Turning to Authun again, she bowed.

"It has been an honour getting to meet you and fighting alongside you and your men." She told him before getting up from the bow. She then begun making her way towards the stables. She knew that he had offered to provide her with some provisions, but considering how there has now been an order from the First Major General, then she couldn't afford to wait. She will have to make do with what she had, Karma thought to herself as she then begun wondering how she should phrase the message she will send to the First Major General.
[/spoili][/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox="Probably a Stupid Idea, #0033cc, dashed, 10, Tahoma"]
Taishiro Kanai | Team 14 Genin | Kirigakure ​
Taishiro was... stunned for a few moments whenever Hiro had his outburst. Was he seriously getting emotional over Aya not joining the training? The genin was not in the mood for dealing with somebody like that, and for moment debated going to sit with Aya. Only when he heard her laughter from behind, he still felt a slight tinge of annoyance at the girl for stepping out. No, he'd try to finish the training, regardless of whether or not they would win. He could hopefully still learn a thing or two today. Turning his attention back towards Mika and Mr. Emotional, Taishiro noticed the former was starting to... disappear? With a small swear, he began to quickly weave hsndsigns, until a clone of himself formed out of water next to him. He had to ensure that Hayashi-Sensei didn't completely disappear from view, else it would be completely impossible to even spot her. For two genin, the exercise would be good as finished at that point, he thought for a brief moment. Looking at his clone, he had a brief, and probably stupid, idea that he wanted to try. He reached for a moment into his pocket, before taking a moment to tap his clone's hand.

A mere moment later, the clone began to run towards Mika. Just a straight line towards what was left of the woman, hoping to catch her before she disappears. With any luck, Taishiro's clone would get close enough to pull off what he was attempting. As it got closer, the clone went to grab the Ninjato on it's back with the hand Taishiro hadn't tapped. In a move that seemed clearly to be a charge and attempt to strike at the woman, the clone continued to close it's distance. Please work. He thought to himself, watching the other two. Hopefully, he wouldn't look like a total idiot after this.[/hr][/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox="Yoshikuni Sadako, #1589FF"]
Amegakure Team 11 Chuunin | Akinian Empire | Royal Palace

Summary:
Kuni speaks to Son-Goku. There is no response from the 4 tailed majestic being.​

While in the emptiness of her room, Kuni was sitting on the bed and found her thoughts consistently moving to either Eiji or Son Goku. Knowing that until she returns to Amegakure she won't be able to contact Eiji or talk to him in any sort of manner, she decided it would only be a bad kind of distraction to think about the people she misses. She shouldn't be kept there for much longer, hopefully. Moving her mind to Son-Goku, she begun to think about the last time she had seen him, which was when Kiyomi spoke to him in that unknown language. The way she approached him, and the way he responded to her, the things that she understood and the way they both appeared to be having a decent conversation, albit a short and rather straight forward one. Why hadn't she thought about approaching things in that same manner?

Well, because she is an impulsive, energetic person who jumps to conclusions without thinking twice. Shaking her head, she thought back to when she made that promise to him. Empty words, he said, due to not doing the deed then. Somewhere in her, she knew that he was right. Her promise was empty, but she was too arrogant and annoyed with him at the time to say he was right. And since then he refused speaking to her, or even acknowledging she was around. Considering how he knew the Nibi was inside Kiyomi without Kuni saying anything about it. Beasts can sense each other, and know exactly which beast too. But that knowledge won't get Son-Goku to talk to her, most likely.

Letting herself go to in front of the cage, Kuni watched the darkness. Not even a tip of any of the four tails was showing. There was a good chance he was asleep, as he didn't have anything else to do. She coughed lightly before she begun to speak "I'm starting to think I'm establishing a pattern here. Coming to talk to you, and no response from you until I fulfill my promise. Well," She said and grabbed her right arm with her left hand "Shortly after I made that promise, you called my words empty. You were right. I was too scared and arrogant to admit it, but you are right. While I wish I could really make such a promise, it is actually out of my hands. The only person who can most likely have you be released from me, in any sort of manner, is her majesty, Kiyomi Homura the first. But even if you are released from me, I doubt that you will be given your freedom back. The people that live in the empire are scared of you, and you being in here gives them a bit sense of security when it comes to you. But, then again, I am considered by many to be a ticking bomb, just waiting to explode."

"But you don't care about my problems, you made that very clear. You will only talk to beings who approach you in an honorable manner, perhaps also speak in a language that many others won't understand but you do. Thats why there is a short list of beings that you have conversed with, and even shorter list of people. I feel like no matter what I say now, I won't be able to ever convince you to talk to me again. I lied, and kept backing my lie for too long. You have no reason to trust me, talk to me, tolerate me. I think right now, the best solution for you is if they find a new host for you, someone who didnt lie to you and that could potentially be a much better host than I will ever be. At the same time, that solution will lead to my death, and no one wants to die willingly. So until the day that I die, you are stuck inside of me. Neither of us wanted this, but this is the situation. This is the reality. We have been handcuffed together in an unbreakable chain and the key will kill me and lead you to a different chain." She stopped speaking and took a deep breath for a few moments.

"You should accept the fact that the person you are stuck in lied out of fear, and being quite the moron for keeping up the lie. I have already understood that if I ever want to approach you again, if you decide to talk to me again, then I should do it in the same manner Kiyomi did. Unfortunately I can't really talk in a language I don't know, but I can suck up my attitude and come to you with a 'Good day Son-Goku Sama' and then try to strike up a proper conversation."

After letting the silence stay for a couple of minutes, Kuni let out a small sigh. She wondered if any part of what she said was offensive to him in any way, and repeated it to herself in her head. Short while afterwards, she turned towards the gate once more "Alright, maybe I shouldn't have said that you should accept any facts. I mean, if past talks taught me, I should probably accept facts you tell me, considering you are much older, wiser and intellegent. And we have a bunch of sayings about how we need to respect our elders, with age comes wisdom, and so forth. So tell you, a beast that is so much older than me, to accept a fact is probably like if I told you that from this day on, you cannot speak in a certain language. It is idiotic of me and only shows how much more I have to go through before I can probably get to a point where anyone won't think I'm just speaking nonsense consistently." She said, and then sat down in front of the cage "I think that I should speaking without properly thinking about things."

More silence. Looking down at her feet, Kuni started citing the riddle that Son-Goku gave to Kiyomi "West till you hit a mountain range, then north until you get to a place where the wind has free roam over the plains. West until you hit a mountain range, then north until you get to a place where the wind has free roam over the plains. There is the mountain country to the west, but I have a feeling you wouldn't go according to the territories set by humans. So if you need to go west until you hit a mountain range, then you probably mean an actual set of mountains. But then north until you find a place where the wind has free roam over the plains. There is the earth country, which has many barren areas. So you probably mean a clearing that comes after you finally lose track of the mountains, thus allowing the wind to come at the plains from any direction. I suppose that it doesn't matter anyway, considering how I can't really go looking to see if I'm right or not." She concluded, giving the cage a quick glance "Being stuck in a place where you are dictated what you can or can't do sucks." She whispered to herself before beginning to whistle a soft whistle.

She would remain in front of the cage for a while, whistling the tune with closed eyes until she ended up opening them, seeing the room she was in back in front of her once more. Moving to lay on her back from sitting, Kuni decided to close her eyes. Perhaps, if she kept going at it, she would manage to find a way to make Son-Goku speak to her like he spoke to Kiyomi. Perhaps.[/fieldbox]
 
The Opening Gambit

Hisahiro Matsui | Team 14 Genin | Kirigakure

Hiro was surprised to see sensei disappear. He continued his charge until he figured he was well clear of her, and swung behind him when he stopped just to be sure. Sensei really had no mercy in this. Hiro supposed that, once sharp metal started flying, mercy was no longer a consideration. He saw Taishiro and a clone performing a manoeuvre at where sensei had been. He didn't know for sure what Taishiro was planning, but he had his suspicions. Hiro readied his sword again and carefully moved to be on the other side of where he had last seen sensei while keeping his senses alert to any disturbance along the ground that might indicate sensei's current position. Hopefully this manoeuvre would allow him to flank sensei when they located her.

Hiro didn't care about her laughter. He had done lots of things that had gotten people to laugh at him. What bothered him was the part where she was acting like a quitter. How could you rely on somebody who would just give up because things seemed difficult. His parents had told him about the olden days when Kirigakure was strong, and if your jounin sensei told you to run into a wall, you did it. This was usually followed by a rant about how the nation was going soft. In any case, he now saw Aya as unreliable and a bad team-mate.
 
[fieldbox=Debriefing of Team 7?, teal]
Konohagakure, capital of the Akinian Empire.

A collab between Glitchy, Roran and Gerontis.

Summary:
Kensuke Nimatsu, Kyoi Hyuuga and Sen Cho return from the region of Pinedale, in the eastern part of the Empire and Fire province. Sen Cho had decided to resign from service, receiving some aid as it turned out that the girl couldn't cope with the stress and demands that come with serving in the military. Kensuke Nimatsu and Kyoi Hyuuga have a debriefing with Zakito Hon. After the debriefing, Kensuke is requested to cooperate with the Intelligence Division as to figure out if he was aware of high treason towards the Empress or not. Though feeling threatened, things don't go out of hand but end in a peaceful manner.



[spoili]
It was raining for the past two days non-stop. Sitting behind his desk, Zakito was working also non-stop. Only during the evening he was able to get some 'reprieve' from the decisions, paperwork and meetings he had to attend. It seemed after the last clan meeting at Vindex as if his work had become more. Knowing that it was because he was taking up some tasks and responsibilities of Hisoka on his shoulder, it just felt as he was in the situation of a decade ago. Labouring till the late hours and then getting a few hours sleep to then do the same all over again. In a way it wouldn't have mattered that much. Zakito didn't mind to be kept busy or aid the administration and ruling of the Fire Province of the empire. Only problem was that he had also his own goals and ambitions. Small ones, sure, but at this rate he wouldn't be achieve them. Hopefully, Hisoka and Meisa would just return soon enough.

As he was about to open a letter, send from Ecla, Zakito looked up. The door was opened by one of his guards to allow a man inside. He didn't look that much apart or rare. Just what one would expect from a citizen. Yet, the way how he strode with a certain confidence said enough. "They are here." The man simply said, envoking a loud sigh from Zakito. Signalling that he could go the Hon leaned forward, his elbows on his desk. People were getting really good at having a bad timing, he thought to himself, waiting for the people he was expecting.

Having passed the gate checkpoint a few minutes ago Kensuke let out a loud sigh as he walked inside the Jounin Commander's office with the last unofficial member of his team in tow. The man at the desk didn't seem surprised to see an arrival despite the dreadful weather. His identification was easily verified and the man passed him along to his old mentor with a silent nod before returning to his paperwork. Despite the entire fiasco that this mission'd become the sight drew a thin smile from the Nimatsu clanleader. Paperwork. Dreadful paperwork. He waited for Kyoi to finish at the desk before he moved up the stairs towards the office of Zakito Hon. He passed a clerk on the way up who excused himself as they passed, and then he was at the door of the man he would call his second father. Or was that still so? Kensuke decided that such thoughts had no place for a time and place like this, and knocked.

There was less resignation in Kyoi's demeanour compared to her departure from Oakrath as she finished up the last bits of paperwork that she had to complete. And as soon as she was done with it she bowed her head respectfully to the man sat at the desk and straightened herself out before following behind Kensuke, taking a moment to let the clerk pass by her first before they reached the door. Like Kensuke, Kyoi was quiet as he knocked on the door, there was some concern in the back of her mind about the situation due to her mistake whilst talking to the Sarutobi leader of the village, but hopefully the Jounin Commander would understand the severity of what had happened there.

The knocking would be answered with a voice from inside, that they were allowed. The door would be opened by one of the guards at the door, who shot a neutral glance at the people entering the office. As Kensuke and Kyoi entered the office, the door would be closed behind them. First, Zakito would return the nod of Kensuke and then incline his head towards Kyoi. It would continue to remain silent as Zakito just eyed the two. There was no hint to what the man was thinking but he would eventually speak up. The usual friendly tone absent, instead a neutral - almost pure business like- tone being dominant. "I have received word from various sources. But I would like to hear what happened and... where the rest of the team is? Not to mention," Zakito's right eye shifted his gaze from Kensuke to Kyoi, "Why a specialised jounin that was send to function as a 'stand-by' was sent away by the Council of Pinedale."

Zakito's pose was slightly tensed, and his tone said business. It made Kensuke feel better about the entire situation. Some boring routine always helped ease the mind. He asked the obvious questions of course, as was expected. He had departed with a far larger team after all. Especially with Sen's resignation the team'd undergone quite the transformation. He cleared his throat and replied on the same business-tone as Zakito had begun. "We delivered the message to our target and then attempted to offer aid to the Blackroot as ordered. Meilin Cho succeeded in having them accept our aid, but on the condition that she would lead the team, a condition supported by Lord Knvell Blackroot. The team continued operations in this order with arguable success until we ended up redirected towards Sarutobi lands. Once at the town of Oakrath Meilin opened communications with the Council of Pinedale after which she disappeared. Upon contacting the council itself we were informed that she arranged for herself to join an expedition and had left without informing her squad." Kensuke reported, eventually throwing a glance at Kyoi besides him. "After signing our protest we were asked to leave, which we did." Kensuke continued.

Listening to Kensuke's briefing, Zakito was already aware of how things had gone and were. But only from the viewpoint and arguments delivered by other people. Among them being Knvell, the lord of the Blackroots, and Ragnhild of the Pinedale council. Both sources were reliable from what he knew but they were mixed. Kensuke's addition to the overall picture of the situation didn't do much to improve Zakito's mood regarding the mission. "Why didn't you send a message to inform me how things were going?" Zakito just asked, not sounding affected by the fact that Kensuke hadn't done such a thing.

"Pardon my intrusion, sir, but if we had done so and waited for a message back we would have been sent upon and imprisoned by Pinedale's own special forces for having a disagreeable opinion of Meilin's actions compared to Lady Sarutobi's own opinion." Kyoi spoke up, expression and tone matching those of Kensuke and Zakito. "When Kensuke's team arrived in Oakrath I greeted them at the barracks and explained my position there and was understandably met with distrust. But whilst Meilin still had technical leadership of the team she spoke to the Council and, from what I heard during our conversation with lady Sarutobi, she came up with a "good plan" to combat the zealots and supposed Uchiha presence within the area. After she returned to the Barracks she claimed that she was going to get some equipment for us from the armoury and then we would head out to assist them in the battle. We waited for at least an hour and a half for Meilin to return to our original meeting point with the equipment she said she would acquire and she never showed." Kyoi paused for a quick breath.

"Upon returning to the barracks, with no idea on what Meilin had done aside from potentially betraying our trust to follow ambitions of her own, we spoke to Lady Sarutobi upon the matter with the intent to find Meilin and find out why she had left us in the town without warning and to adequately punish her once it was over for the transgression of abandoning the team she was supposed to have command over, implying that she may have gone rogue. This wasn't tolerated nor appreciated by Lady Sarutobi and she said that we should leave for the grave insult of wishing to punish someone who had gone rogue without explanation, I asked her that she only lay blame for that upon me, as I was the one who stated that Meilin should be punished but she was having none of it and threatened to set her guards upon us immediately. Meanwhile Karma said something that caught her attention and Lady Sarutobi requested she stay whilst we leave. And so that is why we are the only ones who have returned from the original mission." With another quick breath, Kyoi added one last thing with a somewhat serious tone.

"After some thought, I don't believe I was in the wrong for what I said to Lady Sarutobi, but I realize I probably should have kept my intent hidden instead of being as honest as I was. If there is to be punishment for it, Kensuke Nimatsu and Sen Cho aren't to blame and I should be the only one that takes it."

Kensuke patiently waited for Kyoi to finish and then shook his head. "I don't claim to be faultless. I should have contacted you the moment our first objective was completed, but there would never have been time to receive your answer." He said without trying to sound remorseful. It was what'd happened. Both his mistakes and the realities of their situation. "We never remained stationary for long enough to receive any substantional response." He shrugged as he finished his argument, a rebellious shrug that stated that he knew his responsabilities. "Before we left Karma managed to convince the Council of Pinedale that she should be sent after Meilin, unlike us. Details are in the report, of course."

His attention shifted back as Kyoi spoke up. Just listening Zakito's right eyebrow slightly rose up but no word would leave his lips or any expression flowing over his features. His attention then moved back as Kensuke answered but still no major change from the jounin commander. "I see," he simply said, leaning slightly back in his seat as he seemed to ponder on what was told to him. "I must remind miss Hyuuga, that it is my decision if I want to punish somebody for breaking protocols. While it is in a certain way admirable for you to shield somebody else, believing that they didn't anything wrong, we're not in the Academy anymore." A stern gaze made it clear that he wouldn't prefer to any objection or argument regarding punishment or what her thoughts were. Shifting his attention to Kensuke, Zakito continued. "You should have. There are more things that you should have done and I am not fully certain what to think of it. It would also not matter if you would have to wait a day or an entire month for my reply. Just going off on your own accord is sometimes wise but not when you're somewhere that isn't known and being faced with the dilemma that one of your team members takes over. A genin, even," he didn't sound that upset but it became appearant that the man was disappointed. Even if he didn't show it, yet.

"Regarding the ordeal with Lady Oakrath, otherwise known as Ragnhild Sarutobi of Pinedale," Zakito shifted his attention back to Kyoi, "You may believe that you were in the right. Matter of fact is, however, that you're not on the council that governs the region. You're not aware of the political atmosphere there and not to mention, you're not the person to state who should get punished. If you do desire to do so, I would recommend to obtain a position where you can suggest such matters but until hen, I would deem it quite wise to not begin over if another should be punished or not." Letting his words sink in, Zakito would eye Kensuke for a moment. This was anything but fun or what he desired. Somewhere he was wondering if Kensuke realised that there was no time or space nor chance to sugarcoat it all. To just brush it off and try to work on a solution to make things better. He wasn't the same young man who had been sent as a political hostage. Not anymore.

"I will agree, however, that he actions of Miss Cho are perhaps not something I would accept. A genin taking over control of a team. Leaving her team behind. Venturing on her own accord. Then again," Zakito released a soft sigh as he shook his head slightly during a short pause, "I will deal with her later. The thing is that as the leader of a team, you have your responsibilities. You should have tried to maintain control or just tried to see what would be reasonable. Even if Miss Cho was booking success, you're held responsible for everything. You should have acted. So yes, miss Hyuuga, " Zakito said, without sparing a look in Kyoi's direction, "I will hold Kensuke acountable for neglecting the duties that go along with his rank and position. Even if the situation regarding the whole matter isn't black and white, I can't turn a blind eye now." A silence of short duration followed after the sten words as Zakito would once more continue.

"Besides, there are many matters that I disagree with. You state," he looked at Kyoi, the frown on his brow together with his tone making it clear what kind of mood he was growing in, "That you waited a hour? What if miss Cho had got to the place and waited there only for you to be kicked out of the city? So that is already one point that I will need miss Cho for, before we can state that she left you and team 7 behind. Might very well be that you guys were too judgemental and decided to just go on frustrated conclusions. Then there is the matter that, of course, that team 7 was there without verification that they were allowed to be there. As you can conclude, I hope, there are many factors and facts that have contributed to the current state of matters. So yes," his right eye slightly narrowed, "If such as a small thing happens to either absent members of the team, you two will be hold accountable for it. And don't think that I enjoy or amuse myself with this. I, for one, would have rather wanted that things had gone different. So unless you two have anything to ask then we can conclude this and move on to another point."

Zakito's disagreement with Kyoi's statement and belief wasn't fully expected, causing a brief shift in posture as she dipped her head and looked to the ground in a form of shame. "I understand, sir. I mistakenly spoke with resentment for Meilin Cho after her actions and words and caused us to be expelled from the city."

"Perhaps next time a more proper candidate for missions of these nature should be sent. Unfortunately my status brings several responsabilities that conflicted with what this mission demanded of me." Kensuke said on a neutral tone that betrayed his frustrations despite his efforts. The old man angered him, but he was schooled enough to hide it. But it was this accepting demeanour that translated his youthful frustrations. Disciplined, but there nevertheless. "What other news?" He managed.

Zakito briefly glanced at Kyoi. His posture became a bit more relaxed by hearing the response of the specialised jounin. However, as Kensuke spoke up, Zakito frowned once more. "Perhaps I should. Ignoring that I made it clear that you were send because the prior mission in Keishi and my good faith in you. Then again, that is my blame to carry. Perhaps I should seach for less demanding errands then, fitting for somebody of your... stature." There was a slight and barely noticable shift in the man's tone, yet enough to mark that Kensuke shouldn't cross further than he already had in Zakito's opinion. "As for the other news, I will begin that I hope you will cooperate. Word has reached of a plot having been formed against the Empress. As such," Zakito would pause and knock on his desk a few times. "You will be taken to be questioned by the Intelligence Division, mister Nimatsu."

The words hadn't been fully spoken or the door opened as two members of the Intelligence Division moved in. One of the guards outside the door would also stand at the ready, but nothing more than holding his right hand on the hilt of his short blade. "You're not suspected of high treason and such you won't be treaten as a criminal unless proven. Unless you have anything to say right now, I would implore you to stay calm and follow the instructions given. If you won't resist then there won't be any drama or measures such as dragging you or worse. But I am certain you will make the right choice."

His eyes narrowed when Zakito spelled the words 'cooperate'. An unreal sense of danger and betrayal flushed through his mind when Zakito knocked his desk almost at the same time as the door behind him swung open. This was an arrest. Without volition he'd sunk into a combat position, his hand on his borrowed sword. Zakito's words were like ice-cold daggers that stabbed through his chest while Kensuke taxed the situation. He might have expected something of the sort. Shinobi life was all about subterfuge and situations like this. But he thought that despite their recent troubles Zakito didn't view him this way. Yet his words couldn't be more clear. At least it was an arrest, he thought, and not an assassination. His memory ran back to the few assassination missions he had completed. He'd been quite indifferent towards his targets. He didn't ask too many questions, and did what had to be done. A candidate selected for the purpose, to abuse the target's weaknesses. Even as his mind wandered he thought of how curious it was how one's thoughts could dance to such remote memories during a stressful situation like this, as if avoiding having to act.

A moment passed. Kensuke relaxed his pose with a deep sigh and put his hands on the back of his head. His gaze shifted back to Zakito, whom he observed with a dead gaze. He hoped his decision to trust the system he'd been starting to doubt, the system that was arresting him now, the system he had killed for, the system his friends had died for, was not a mistake. As he allowed his mind to wrap around the reality of his arrest he thought of what Zakito'd said. A plot against the empress? It'd have been funny if his former mentor wasn't so serious about it. He of all people should know he regarded Kiyomi as a sister.

"Fine." He spat.

The Nimatsu dropping into a combat stance would be answered as the alerted guard would also follow. Judging by the sound, he wasn't the only one but neither Zakito or the two members of the Intelligence Division would follow as well. Gazing at his former student, Zakito remained silent. Kensuke decision was met with a frown from Zakito, who shook his head barely a second later. "Just leave your weapons and tools behind. You're not going to be handcuffed or treated as a traitor. Like I said, you will be questioned regarding a certain plot. If you have no involvement, which I personally doubt, then just see this as a mere necessity to rule you out. So please, just drop your hands and don't jump to conclusions. The previous mission should provide enough evidence that following quickly formed conclusions aren't the best way to go around." One of the members of the Intelligence Division would step forward to stand at Kensuke's side, calmly offering up a hand, nodding towards the weapon and pouches of the Nimatsu. Meanwhile Zakito turned his attention to Kyoi.

"You're dismssed, miss Hyuuga. Both you and mister Nimatsu will be later informed on what I shall do. First, I will need to know if the remaining and absent members of Team 7 are injured or not. Not to mention if miss Cho truly left you and Team 7 behind and not that you and the team made a choice, basically being impatient. Along other factors, I will for now postpone my decision on how to conclude this mission of Team 7 and your involvement in the matter. I bid you a good day," nodding towards Kyoi, Zakito shot a meaningful glance towards Kensuke. There was something that the lord commander did want to say but decided against it. "Same to you, mister Nimatsu. Good day."

Kyoi was just as suprised at the arrival of the Intelligence Division, but quietly waited for the situation to simmer down before she nodded in response to Zakito. "Understood, sir, I shall await your decision." She turned and left for the Hyuuga clan household so she could await whatever decision was made.

Kensuke merely shrugged. His 'old man' could kiss his ass right now. He removed his katana's sheath from his belt, along with the small arsenal of throwables and knives the average shinobi kept on his person. Finally he also retrieved his broken sword, wrapped in oiled linens, and its decorated scabbard. He looked at the weapon for a moment and wasted a thought on the bloodied, old blue ribbon tied to the handle. He carefully untied it and held it in his hand before stowing it away. "I hear you." He said and followed the pair of intelligence division shinobi outside of the room.
[/spoili]
[/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox='Shikaroku Nara | Konoha Genin | Team 13, purple']
Waking Nightmare​

The hall was dark; that much was clear.

His eyes still hadn't adjusted to it and something nagged at the back of his mind, something he couldn't quite remember. Trying to focus, Shikaroku looked down the hallway, his eyes only able to make out blurred shapes in the darkness. Doorways, he assumed.

Taking an uncertain step into the hall, Shikaroku put his hand out in front of him, feeling along the wall, hoping to find something to light the way. Stepping further into the hall, he bumped into something, stubbing his toe. Cursing under his breath, Shikaroku moved his hands to the cabinet he'd walked into, feeling along the surface. His hands made contact with something and he quickly grasped it. It was a candle. Finally, Shikaroku thought, reaching out again in search of the matches. Feeling something that felt like a matchbox, he moved to pick it up and froze. A sudden chill crept across his spine and through his body. For a split second, the Nara could swear he felt something brush across his hand.

Quickly pulling a match from the box, Shikaroku struck it, bringing a tiny sliver of light to the darkness around him. Holding the lit match up high, he glanced around. The hallway was empty, save for himself and the small cabinet. Taking a second to gather his nerves, Shikaroku shook his head. Stupid... There is nothing here, stop being such a wimp. Bringing the candle up with his other hand, Shikaroku watched as the fire caught, causing the light to spill out into the hall. As the boy looked around to make out his surroundings better, his eyes narrowed. For a moment, it had appeared as if the darkness was peeling back from the light, moving almost like liquid... As his vision focused, the strange effect disappeared and Shikaroku blinked.Shaking his head again, he resumed moving forward, heading towards the room at the end of the hall.

Strangely enough, the candle did not fully illuminate the end of the hallway, even as he grew closer. It became clear that the door was open, but the room remained pitch black. Shikaroku hesitated. This darkness seemed almost unnatural. Taking a single step into the room, Shikaroku felt the same cold chill as before. Turning, he was caught in a moment of panic as he realized the way he had come was no longer there. Instead it was just a wall, covered in inky shadows. Shikaroku took a step back, lifting the candle to try and make out more detail. With growing dread, he saw the light of the candle begin to flicker and grow dim.

Cursing himself for not bringing another match with him, Shikaroku tried to steady the candle, watching in vain as the darkness began to close in once more. A sudden noise caused his head to whip around, searching for the source. There was nothing behind him, however, nothing save for the darkness. The noise filled the space once more, growing louder. It was laughter. A dark, chilling laugh, devoid of anything but a sense of sadistic pleasure. Shikaroku pulled the candle closer to himself, looking around, hoping to find an exit. He could see nothing now, not even the walls. A chill ran through him as he felt something slide across his shoulder. Paralyzed with fear, Shikaroku watched as a tendril of pure darkness appeared, somehow illuminated by the last remaining light of the candle. His hands trembled and he could do nothing as the tendril slowly moved towards the candle, sliding across the dying flame and snuffing it completely.

Left in the pitch black, Shikaroku still could not move. He didn't even know where he would move to if he could... For what seemed like an eternity, he stood in the silence, even the cold laughter had faded. What happened next, he felt more than actually saw. Something moved in the darkness. Something large and nebulous. As its form gathered in front of Shikaroku, he could feel that it was easily twice his size. Forcing himself to look up, the Nara tried to stop himself from shaking, the fear completely taking over. Out of the darkness, two spots of glowing red appeared, staring right through him. Looking into the lights, Shikaroku realized he was staring into the eyes of whatever creature this was. Once he stared into the light, he was unable to look away. The cold laughter returned and the eyes seemed to glow brighter for a moment before the creature spoke. It was a language Shikaroku had never heard and it chilled him to his core. The creature reached out to him and Shikaroku closed his eyes, the last part of his body he could control.

Opening his eyes, Shikaroku shot forward, gasping. He was in his bed, sweat pouring from his brow. The room was lit, dimly, but in comparison to the darkness from before, it felt incredibly bright. Reaching up, Shikaroku rubbed his eyes, trying to catch his breath.

Just a dream... just a dream...

An all too familiar sensation began gnawing at the back of his mind, starting at the base of his spine and moving rapidly into his head. Wincing, Shikaroku grabbed his head as the first spark of pain shot through him. The migraine was going to be a brutal one, he could feel it. Grunting as another wave of pain shot through his head, Shikaroku rolled himself out of his bed. Landing on the floor, he barely felt the impact, trying to block out the pain of the migraine. Pulling himself over to his closet, he pushed it open, frantically digging through his clothes to find the chest. Fiddling with the latch, he threw the lid open and reached inside. Pulling out two pills, Shikaroku quickly swallowed them. Turning to lay on his back, he grit back the tears as the pain racked through him. The pills would take some time to have any effect and Shikaroku could do nothing but lay still, waiting for it to pass.

~Some time later~

Once the pills had taken effect, Shikaroku let out a relieved breath. The numbness swept through him, blocking out the intense pain and replacing it with a dull throb. Remaining still for a moment longer, the Nara finally pulled himself to his feet, downing the water he had placed on the nightstand. As he finished the glass, Shikaroku set it down, breathing heavily.

Looking up, he realized that today was the day he was supposed to meet with Hiron and the other members of Team 9. Cursing, Shikaroku began to scramble to get ready. Throwing his things together, he got dressed, stopping in the washroom to splash cold water on his face. Returning to his room, Shikaroku grabbed his pack and headed for the door. Stopping, he looked at the closet. Shaking his head, he moved back to the chest, pulling out several more pills and placing them inside a pouch within his pack. Closing the chest, he returned it to its hiding place and closed the closet doors.

Thankfully his parents were not home so he did not have to face them as he left the house, his mind still in a daze; a side effect of the pills. Making his way towards the meeting place, Shikaroku could not stop thinking about the dream. It had felt different than any he had had before. It had felt real. A chill ran through him and he shook it off. Now was not the time to be focusing on stupid things.

Shikaroku arrived at the meeting place, looking every bit as haggard as he felt. Glancing at Hiron and Kouta, he nodded briefly. "Sorry I am late." He did not know what else to say and desperately hoped they did not ask him any questions. Right now it was hard to think straight thanks to the medicine.

That was when he realized there were several horses present as well. Shit... Shikaroku thought. Riding horses was not something he was familiar with. With any luck, he could just sit there and let the animal walk without needing to do anything his own end, but Shikaroku didn't have much faith that that would be the case.

Great start Shikaroku, the boy sighed, great start indeed...

[/fieldbox]
 
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Kenshin Hishima
Rank: Kumogakure Genin
Location: Wolf Country Camp

Kenshin dedicated himself to helping the elder soldiers pack their gear, after all, he couldn't think of anything better to occupy his time with. The boy would be witness to a weaker side of the soldiers or in their words "the consequences of war", meaning back problems, knee problems, and maybe hearing impaired as a lot of them had to shout and repeat themselves. While Kenshin was finishing up the boy would overhear two soldiers talking what seemed like to be the election."Yeah, I see what you mean, the shorter one right?Lacks experience." Intrigued by the conversation, Kenshin would quicken his pace, eager to put his point in. Kenshin lifted his knees off the ground and make his way towards the soldiers, holding eye contact to one that last voiced his opinion.

The soldier's eyes shortly widened in surprised, lifting his upper lip slightly baring the fronts of his teeth. They were middle-aged and grizzled, one with patchy facial hair, the other completely bald, with fuzzy sideburns. "I agree, I would have chosen to Niji Yakei, you know? the taller, pale skin and dark hair." The patched grizzled soldier rested his chin on his fist processing the boy's opinion."I'd do anything just to have my head between her thighs." A confused look curtained Kenshin's face, Kenshin slightly opened his mouth however his voice did not escape."Dark hair, pale skin, and mature, but hey what about that Mizuchi woman. I don't care if she's albino I want a taste of her.""Aye why not ask Yuuta for some tips, he's always getting his ass handed to her."The thought of patchy bearded man eating Mizuchi made Kenshin feel disgusted and a little sick to the stomach.The mention of the name Yuuta knocked the excitement out of Patchy."Yuuta," a boastful chuckle emerged "You honestly think I need Yuuta to get this girl, behave, You know as well as me I got the high kill count, plus I got a lot of girths, Aye Fuck Yuuta, Fuck Niji." "Fuck Mizuchi, the bald soldier interrupted, hey why not fuck them both? The patchy bearded soldier nodded in agreement, Nizuji, now that would be a feast, banquet".

Kenshin shook his head in disgust, it was too clear that he had entered the wrong conversation, slowly the boy would distance himself away from the soldiers the more perverted the longer the distance.​
 
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[fieldbox="What Are We Men!, #eeb422, solid"]

Kiro "Yuuki Narukami" Oda - Anbu of the Republic, currently commander of the Republic forces

Having done quite the long march to get to the new camp point, where they would be awaiting any day now to engage this massive enemy force. Kiro couldn't help but think upon the travel there if these were the culprits who kept stealing away the Anbu he led here disguised, in an attempt to get Wolf Country to come crawling back to them. That was roughly less than fifty of them he brought there only to leave with five, all of which who didn't join them just upped and vanished. Were these fucks toying with him around that time? If they had these numbers then why didn't they just take the entirety of the group he led? Was this their way of mocking him and telling him he was powerless to stop it? Kiro would grit his teeth as he clenched his hands. "These fuckers... I'll leave no survivors... I refuse to be treated as a weakling by anyone!" Kiro said letting his anger get a hold of him, causing some of his men to look at him. While a hand would find itself placed upon his shoulder. "I like this rage boy. Let it run wild on the battlefield. I can't wait to see the dance you create." the grizzled voice would tell him, which Kiro would recognize at the Mercenaries's leader Sol that they hired. Sol would then walk on ahead causing Kiro to grumble to himself among the whispers of his force.
A bit later~

With their camp being set up he could tell most of the men's spirits were not high at all. Hearing them utter why they were even here if their death was all but guaranteed. He could tell which were soldiers who had families, maybe even children waiting for them back home. Only to see defeat already plastered in their eyes. He looked at the snow covering the ground and knew that by the end of this confrontation either their side would remain white or dyed the sickly red color of defeat. This was when he clenched his chest as his eyes widen, gasping a bit caused some soldiers to look at him wondering why he looked in pain. Picking this up he waved them off with his right hand. "Stepped on a sharp rock, don't worry and get back to your orders." despite saying this they still looked rather dejected inside and outside, easily being seen by how they carried themselves. yet as his chest kept throbbing. A woman would approach him giving him a frown. "Commander a word with you. she would state leading him to his tent where once inside his gasping would be more audible now as he clenched his chest tightly as some drool was coming out of his mouth. She shook her head and handed him a vial. "Take it before we mysteriously don't have a commander anymore. We don't need hostile relations for the upcoming battle Yuuki." she would tell him putting some emphasis on the Yuuki part, meaning she knew he was Kiro the former missing nin. Meaning she was one of the several ANBU that Kimi had sent with him.

Downing the contents of the vial the pain would stick around for a few seconds before going back to normal. He wiped the drool from the corner of his mouth breathing a bit heavily. "Thanks." he stated as he was about walk out, his arm was grabbed by her causing him to stop and look at her. "You need to take control of this situation Kiro." she spoke softly pulling him away from the entrance/exit of the tent. He kept looking at her as she continued to speak. "Right now those men and women out their are a shit show. They are basically cattle waiting to be butchered with how low our morale is. A massive force that double the entire allied force? It hits deep, deep enough to kill someones spirit. So it has to be you who rekindles their spirit. It can't be anyone else. So play the role of Yuuki, yet show them the fiery spirit of Kiro. The man that I knew to never back down from anything, going as far as to betray everyone he ever knew for his own cause. Where is that man now? He may be a criminal but hes the man we need right now to get our own spirits ignited for this foe." having said that she would let him go and walk out before he could even question who she was and how she remembered him.

Standing in silence he would start glaring at the ground before calling for a messenger to get a message out to everyone that in the middle of camp he would be speaking to everyone.

Thirty minutes from that moment Kiro stood at the center of his camp where a large gathering had taken place all around him as he stood on some crates. Looking around at everyone, he could see their hopeless looks gazing up at him. Not really caring as to why they are here or what he even has to say. It was a simple accepting of their fate that was plastered as far as he could see. He would clear his throat before his voice sounded through the area.

"Are these the men and women that have fought for our country time and time again?! Are these the men who struck hard and deep into the Fire Country?! We claimed multiple victories against a country who's manpower outnumbered us and yet we beat them on several occasions all because of you brave men and women! Yet now that some poorly equipped army that doubles the allied force is coming at us, we are going to give up so easily?!! I didn't know I was leading a army of cattle into battle. When the Fire Country was knocking on our door after they pushed us back, did we give up then? No we went out for one last battle against them and gave them a fight like the warriors we should be! When have we ever cowered in fear just because a threat was in front of us?! This is not what our parents and grandparents died for. They died so we could live on and give each and every threat that snarled at us, a roar and a mighty one! Know what I say to these attackers? For every one of us, we will claim a hundred of them, no a thousand! We will not back down before them! We will open our arms and welcome them to try and take OUR land from us! We are not cattle waiting to be slaughter! We are slaughterers welcoming our cattle with sword and shield in hand! I'll be dammed if we let the Empire and Lightning country one up us in this war! I don't know about you men and women but I'm sick of our homeland being considered a joke! I'm sick of people thinking we can't carry our own! We are god damn fucking warriors! The warriors that will purge this threat and every other threat that comes our way until the end of time! Now show me, show the Lightning country, show the Empire of Akino, show the enemy just what wild beasts are here and ready!!"

Having said this panting a bit, he looked around the faces around him shocked at first turned more bright. Then a roar a mighty one at that. One loud enough that snow on nearby trees fell to the ground, as the hands of every man and women in camp shot up in a cheer surprising even him. He gave a grin and raised his own hand. As Koi would look on as even his own mercenaries were cheering. "What a time to be alive. he would mutter joining his men in the cheering. As the woman who told him to go rekindle their spirits gave a thumbs up among the crowd. After this speech the camp was set and finished and everyone seemed in high morale with tasks being completed quickly, even getting themselves ready for their cattle to arrive.[/fieldbox]
 
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