The city ambushed them as they ascended to over the next low, rolling ridge, wedged between rivers. The morning's lingering mist was starting to disperse when they were greeted by Hanaguro. The mist gave the ancient fortified city wedged between the rivers a mistifying view, as if it came straight out of a painting or a romantic's book. A less cursory glance broke that image, with carts on the roads and the busy traffic on the river itself showing perhaps the true nature of Hanaguro's wealth. Kensuke made a particular sniff and looked back at Karma and Kyoi. "Let's get this over with." He said, and descended down the path to the Eastern gates.
It didn't take too long before they found themselves escorted through the town which, despite that it'd been dawn not even an hour before, was bustling with activity and commerce. Eventually they arrived at the fortified castle dominating the capital of the River, where a more formal hailing followed. Yet here too Team 7 passed without many difficulties.The team would be led into the castle. Their escort existed out of a few servants who would lead them towards a heavily guarded entrance. Double thick doors of dark oak were already opened as some soft sounds of people whispering and mumbling could be heard. Some more voices were audible. Team 7's escort would guide them silently into the throne room as the courtiers made way for the few shinobi. A line of heavily armoured and armed guards formed a line between the courtiers and the throne of the current reigning governor. Two guards would step aside, allowing the few shinobi to pass through the line of guards, to close it behind them. In front of the team, there was a heavily decorated scene. Banners that represented the Tamiyo dynasty as several banners that presented the royal Homura dynasty were hanging at the walls. There were two doors in the back but each door was guarded by the masked guards that cleary didn't seem fond of allowing just anybody to pass through. In the center, some meters in front of Team 7, was the throne. Decorations in silver and gold run around in the stone, which was occupied by a plump man. Next to the throne was a smaller version, which a small lady sat in. A slim man with a pale complexion would clear his throat before taking a step forward.
"You are in the presence of the current governor of the River province, blessed by the Empress herself. The current head of the Tamiyo dynasty and the most beloved of the entire region. The Generous and the Wise. Takeo Tamiyo," the herald would announce as the courtiers would bow deeply towards the man that occupied the throne. Subtly, Takeo would gesture that those who knelt or bowed could rise up as he would bestow a large smile upon the small group of nin in front of him. "Greetings, I hope that the journey from the Fire province was a most pleasant one. As I certainly hope that the journey through the lands of my ancestors and people have been pleasant to eye. Hopefully, you will be able to enjoy your stay in Hanaguro during the tenure of your vocation here." The man said as he would eye each of the present members.
As they passed through the city, Karma couldn't help but admire how active Hanaguro was and the mysterious yet charming feeling it gave. Just from looking around, she was certain that she would want to explore this place further, while off duty. On the way, she glanced at Kensuke's back for a brief moment, not appreciating how he seemingly wanted to get things going with haste. This was yet another mission in a different setting, different people in a different province. This type of mannerism worried her that it would make them all be sent back without a question, and this time she did not have any thing she could possibly bring up to allow her to stay back. Meilin was on her own team with Madoc, and she felt a bit jealous, but she had kept her jealousy to herself, along with a straight face.
When they arrived at the castle and walked within it, she appreciated the banners and how much effort the Tamiyo had put into both the decor and protection. Once they passed the line of guards and faced the thrones, Karma listened to the man who introduced Takeo Tamiyo, before the man himself would greet them. She wondered briefly if she should say anything as she bowed towards the man in a show of respect, and remained silent for the time being.
The picturesque aesthetic of Hanaguro's misty morning landscape was quite a beauty for the Hyuuga to behold, she had never been in this area so everything she saw was a new and fresh experience. She was focused on the scenery for a while as she briefly nodded to Kensuke's words, there would be time for getting properly immersed in the town's features later on after all, in fact it's business was something she could at least enjoy the sight and sound of for the time being whilst they were led to the Tamiyo castle. Within the confines of the castle she took cursory glances to the decorations in the halls leading to the throne room where there was even more to look at, huge banners as far as the eye could see and oppulence practically dripping from the walls.
Her gaze finally rested upon the two figures sat in the thrones, one being introduced as Takeo Tamiyo and the other no doubt his wife, although it seemed her name wasn't disclosed to them. Having knelt down in a formal manner of greeting upon their arrival, she took care to rise to her feet after the gesture from the lord of the land prompted her to do so. She took a small glance over to Kensuke, checking to see if he intended to speak for them or if they were free to voice their opinions on Hanaguro to the lord before they got down to business. Kensuke seemed, to Kyoi at least, to just want to get straight to the task at hand so she remained quiet, giving Takeo, his wife and the herald a warm smile.
Rising at Lord Tamiyo's will Kensuke endured his courteous greetings. Takeo Tamiyo certainly was an agreeable member of society, but society was not why they were here. Also, Kensuke was not one for society. "Thank you, Lord Tamiyo. We have come as requested. We shall commence our duties as soon as possible." He replied on a tone that was both matter-of-factly and respectful.
The former daimyo and current governor eyed the small group with a clear curiousity. Only a second later after Kensuke had spoken, Takeo would clap his hands as he would nod towards Team 7. "Certainly. It will on the Tamiyo's honour to receive such exceptionall guests in these halls. May we speak soon again," The guards would form an opening as three servants would come to guide the team away. The moment that Team 7 walked away, they could hear the voice of the herald announcing one of the minor nobles that seemed to desire to address a problem regarding one of the bridges. But under the guidance of the servants, the team would be walking through the spacious halls of the keep. Many a form of art was present. From paintings to various other arts, such as sculptures of various designs and fashions. Slowly however, they started to encounter less of the expensive looking art pieces. One of the servants would explain that they were allowed to stay in a room as they were currently in the wing of the servants and guards. The room that was 'reserved' for the team was average in quality. Nothing that seemed bad or lacking but no form of luxury was really presented. A small window was slightly open, allowing some fresh air into the room. Once more the team would find themselves being guided through the halls. The walk took around ten minutes as they would start to encounter more guards than before. The silent men were armed and armoured in a typical Taika atire. Their makes helmets did hide most of their facial features but they clearly held an eye on the newcomers. Eventually another sort of guards seemed to be present. Less heavily armoured but still armed with various short bladed weaponry, these guards would shot a look as well towards the bypassing Konohagakure nin. Some of these guards seemed to be female but much like the heavier equipped counterparts, they didn't say a word.
The walk would come to a halt as the team would be guided to a heavily guarded door. A mixture of guards stood at the door and one of the servants would approach the largest of the guards. A swift and hushed conversation took place. The large masked guard simply nodded as he slowly eyed the team from the Fire province. With a short command, he would step aside as one guard would open the door for the servants and shinobi. Entering the room, it was clearly one of the personal chambers of the Tamiyo. The luxury that was presented was a stark contrast to the more simple room that was reserved for Team 7. In the room was a large bald man, who had various black lines and symbols carved on his scalp. His atire wasn't conform to the local Taika traditions and seemed more rugged while almost casually a handaxe and blade rested on each of the large man's hip. The only other person was a young woman with dark brown hair, reaching just a bit past her shoulders. Spotting the arrival of the newcomers in the chambers, the young woman would softly say something to the large man. The man slowly nodded and threw a bored look at the newcomers before taking his leave.
The young woman briefly eyed the new company. There was no visible expression on the woman's face that clarrified her thoughts or stance on team 7's arrival but she would shot a look at the servants and made a subtle wave at them. The servants would simply bow and leave the room. Folding her hands in front of her stomach, the woman would speak with a friendly tone present in her voice to the Konohagakure shinobi. "I take it that you lot are from Konohagakure? Apologies for not receiving you in the throne room. Some personal matter occupied me. In any way," she would make a short and graceful bow towards the team, "My name is Haruka Tamiyo. The one who had requested the presence of a Konohagakure team. Though, I suppose my second letter had not reached the Lord Commander and Hon in time. Not that it matters, now. I hope the journey was without any problems."
Bidding the throneroom and its inevitable share of plotting and court intrigue behind Kensuke followed the servant to their room in the servant quarters. He frowned at the idea, but kept his silence. It served no use to complain to a servant. Instead they followed the man through the palace. What was remarkable was the heavy presence of armed guards, all on full alert. Samurai and some men he suspected to be the former daimyo's private shinobi corps guarded the hallway to the room of their protégé. They gave the team of Konoha nin unflinching stares of utter distrust. Fortunately they trusted more in their lord's judgement than the appearence of the Konoha shinobi and let them pass after a single command.
Inside Lady Haruka's rooms they found a single tall, burly man. Tattoos covered his scalp and a hatchet adorned his right hip. If anything, not the sight he'd expected inside the rooms of the Tamiyo firstborn. The man left without a word and left them with the lady, who introduced herself. "My name is Nimatsu Kensuke, jounin leader of Konohagakure team 7." He introduced himself with the standard amount of formalities required of a jounin on mission. "We have been assigned a room by your father, it will not do. We need to be stationed closer to your rooms if we're expected to act as your last line of defence." He said pertinently. "Our travel here was without incident, thank you for asking." He then added, rapidly weaving new threads of conversation.
Raising from the bow as Lord Taimyo spoke again, Karma followed the servants that came to escort them, and on the way admired in silence the many pieces of art that hung in the halls. The presence of the many guards that did not appear to trust them did not surprise her one bit. They had come here to help protect Lord Taimyo's daughter, but that did not indicate they had to trust any outsiders. When they were shown the single room they were meant to stay at, Karma didn't feel the most comfortable, but kept it to herself, Missions were not about comfort, after all.
Soon enough they were headed towards the next location Kensuke wished to go to, The Taimyo's Daughter private chambers. The presence of the guards felt increased in this area, and as they entered the room she felt as if she was going through a tougher security check than the one leading to the inner parts of Konoha, just from the gazes of the guards. As they briefly waited for the man that was inside with Lord Taimyo's daughter to leave, Karma gave him a brief bow of her head as a form of brief greeting. Even if they did not need to know everyone, Karma still felt they should be polite towards everyone who is close to the person they needed to protect, as they would both need to know faces and perhaps also gain their trust at some point.
As she listened to Haruka's introduction and saw her bow, Karma felt like frowning at how little effort Kensuke put into his manners in return. Bare minimum would give a bare minimum in return, she thought before bowing towards Haruka "I'm Karma Minami, Genin of Team 7. It is an honour to meet you, Lady Taimyo." She said before rising from the bow and offering a small smile.
Kyoi patiently, and quietly listened as Kensuke spoke to the lord and stated his wish to get to work, upon the lord's response she gave a respectful bow of her head before following out the throne room at the guidance of the servants. Her gaze swept over the artwork lining the walls with a sense of admiration, be it at the sheer quantity of the art on show, the fact that this must have cost an incredible sum of money to obtain or the quality of it all. But soon that splendour began to dwindle as they soon shown the room they were assigned and subsequently lead on a ten minute trip through the halls, hopefully not the fastest route possible, to the room that housed their charge. Kyoi had been happy to see the simple room they'd be using, so much so that her only complaint was just how far it was from Haruka Tamiyo's room.
At the door to Haruka's room, the Hyuuga gave slow, polite nods of greeting towards the guards stationed there until they were let into the room to meet with the girl they would be protecting. Kyoi's interest was piqued by the sight of the bald man whom was just... there, really, he was even more out of place than they were at this moment but he was most certainly meant to be there so she decided against voicing any concern over it. Once again she left Kensuke to initiate conversation, figuring that saying anything at the moment would be to speak out of turn and cause trouble, though it turned out she thankfully wasn't the only one with concerns about the proximity of their room to hers even if it was blunter than she'd expected.
"Kyoi Hyuuga, Specialised Jounin of Team 7." She spoke clearly, bowing her head before speaking once more. "We'll be sure to give it our all to protect you whlist we're here, Lady Tamiyo." She would've looked to either of the other two to gauge their own expressions, but Kyoi kept her focus on Haruka for the time being.
The young woman would incline her head as the three introduced them. Her attention first went to Kensuke. She seemed to consider his words for a moment before a polite reply was returned to the tall Nimatsu. "I fear that has to do with the previous guard that hailed from the Imperial capital. Not that there was anyhing wrong but seeing that no chambers near mine are free at the moment, it will be tricky to arrange. I shall see what my father or his valet can do if I will request them. Though Hallbjörn might have some space free. Yet I doubt that he will appreciate three strangers," a smile played for a moment on Haruka's lips as she toyed with the thought, which seemed to clearly amuse her. "In any further regards, I suppose we should be speaking about the reason why I requested a team of shinobi from a different province? I should state that there is nothing wrong with the personal retinue of my dynasty or the Valley nin. A small error had been made on my mistake as I had desired the same team that had aided and took care of when the Jashin cult was getting problematic. However, it would be most unfortunate to send you back all the way to the Imperial capital. Besides, you still could aid me in what I hope to aspire. " Introducing a pause, Haruka considered how she would put the situation in the right words.
"I am aware that these troublemakers, labeled as Zealots, are quite present in other areas and regions of the realm. There have been various reports and concerning rumours that a number of these Zealots have been conspiring something in the River province. Once I heard from my stay in Konohagakure that various times people were tempted or contacted by Zealots, I desired some outside help. As a certain measure against moles, you see? While investigations are being handled and me handling some of these investigations with some personal presence, so to say, I was hoping for outside aid and protection. Hanaguro isn't a dangerous city but it isn't all charm and joy either. Certainly not if groups of fanatics are once more consipring to cause chaos and strife." Gesturing briefly to the door, Haruka continued in a calm pace. "The large man that you saw, was one of these outside sources that has proven quite useful against these Zealots. That having said, I hope that I can count on your aid as well? I am aware that it is rather risky not knowing with how many potential threats you all might deal with and I must confess that I can't tell shinobi ranks, so if you rather have another team take over, I understand and shall respect that decision."
Kensuke shrugged when she brought up the issue regarding the fact that she'd specifically asked for a Konoha team. He suspected there were political reasons behind it for what it was worth. But her personal reasoning, or at least the one she gave them now, made sense. It seemed Team 6 had left a very favourable impression after their tasks here. "That's not a bad idea." He said, nodding in agreeance when she mentioned she feared that there might be moles. "The zealots have proven to know how to infiltrate even shinobi units." He informed her as he offered her a mirthless smile. Being a shinobi team himself, it wasn't exactly information that advertised their services. But it was the truth, one she deserved to know.
"Rest assured, we have been sent to complete this mission, and we shall." He said once she was done. "There's a couple of things we'll have to run over though." Kensuke then continued as his eyes did a preliminary scan of the room. Potential hiding places for weapons, hiding spots, entrances, that sort of thing. Then his gaze snapped back to her, like a hawk's. "This Easterner, you trust him?" He then asked, cocking his head. If he had some experience with the zealots and was trusted enough to be alone with Haruka in her private quarters, he undoubtedly would be an excellent guide to the intricacies of this place. "I'd like to get a list of people you trust unconditionally in this place. It's imperative that we are stationed next to your room. We cannot protect you from the dangers your samurai might miss if we're not here." He listed, and then looked at her again, gave his surroundings a quick glance, and gave her another look. "I assume that when we speak in this room, noone listens along?"
A smile was returned once Kensuke stated that she could rest assured. It seemed more polite than anything else. When Kensuke stated that they had to discuss a couple of things, Haruka subtly nodded as she listened. Her thin eyebrows slightly perked up when Kensuke mentioned the term 'Easterner', only catching on that he meant the man that had been in the room before. "Hallbjörn seems perhaps a bit," searching for the right word, Haruka flashed an apologetic smile, "Intimidating. Or rough. But our previous experiences with the likes of his clan and kin have awoken some interest. Not to mention that Hallbjörn has already been a great boon. If he is working together with the zealots, then I fear that they would already commited some horrid actions. So yes, I do trust him." There was a firm undertone mixed with the previous friendly ring of Haruka's voice, that likely made it quite clear that she wouldn't like to hear more doubts about the large bald man. "I can arrange the list. I suppose I can also give one of people that I don't trust. Though, at the moment, that one would be quite long. As for the room, I will soon request my father and his valet to see if they can make arrangements. But until then, I won't promise anything nor say yes, Nimatsu-san." She further replied. Briefly the eyes of the young woman shot to the right, towards some material badly hidden behind a closet. A painting canvas was still clearly visible, despite the likely hurried attempts of hiding it. "As for the privacy, no need to worry. Unlike most of my family, I greatly value my privacy. The walls and doors are thick. Nobody will be able to hear us as long as they aren't in this room." There seemed to be a sliver of bitterness and a certain mocking to the phrase, but not directing towards Kensuke or anybody else present.
"If you desire, I could arrange a few matters that will allow you and yours to move freely through a few wings of the keep. Of course, you will be watched but I assume that it is clear that we can't just let recent outsiders go everywhere."
"Exactly what I needed to hear. Is there someone else in this room right now? If not, then I propose that we always have one member of this team hidden behind a fake wall in this room, ready for immediate response." He said, nodding to himself. "And yes, some freedom of movement would be appreciated." He said, mentally marking that one off the list. He'd see for himself if they could really trust the Easterner, and it was too bad she couldn't just assign them a room here. But he knew that their employers usually valued other things above their security. With any chance enough of his good suggestions would be accepted, or at least considered. "Furthermore," He said, turning his gaze back to her. "There is only so much we can do by just sitting here and guarding you wherever you go. With your permission, I'd like to proactively root them out. For starters, you spoke of investigations running to find moles or zealots. What can you tell us about those?"
"Not so far I am aware off," was Haruka's answer to Kensuke's first question. Her head slightly titled to the side as she listened to Kensuke. "A fake wall? Hm, I will have to think about that. I am not uncomfortable with one of you here on guard duty. I take it that you have some way to communicate with each other on some distance. Actually," Haruka raised her right hand to halt any answers, "I don't need to know that. As for the investigations, I will have to see which information I should share with you. I hope you understand that I am not quick of trusting. I might have already handed quite some information but in time I shall see if I can share the more sensitive information regarding the ongoing investigations and operations. I hope you understand that it takes some effort and time to trust another. Which is why I had hoped the Lord Commander and Hon would send the previous team." An apologising smile would find its way back on Haruka's lips as she would wait for any further questions or comments.
Kensuke smiled in return, although his was harder. "If you didn't trust us then you really shouldn't have let Hallbjörn leave the room." He said, and then shrugged. "So there is no little to withhold information now. Regardless, we'll do a little bit of intellencing on our own, as a safety net." He said, and then paused, as if something just struck him. "I believe a list of all servants that come into this wing of the palace would be necessary as well. Along with whom you trust among them. We'd also need to meet all your guards and servants in person. Not because we suspect all of them, but because we'll need to remember their faces." He continued.
"Is there anything else you want us to do specifically?"
"Hallbjörn was excused for other reasons, Nimatsu-san," Haruka calmly stated as her eyebrows slightly perked up. She decided to not further that subject as a small nod was given. The request to meet all the guards and servants caused the eyebrows of Haruka to rise further. "I see," she basically stated as she seemed to consider the request. "I will see what I can do about that. Like the room, I can't make any promises that I can arrange it but I will see what I can arrange." On the question of Kensuke, Haruka considered something but would shake her head. "No. I think that you got a start to attend to. A servant will probably be waiting outside. In case that you desire so, I can either suggest you start with Hallbjörn or with Aratoshi. The latter is an officer of the local retainers. He is also a confidante of mine."
Kensuke nodded. "Very well. We'll leave you to your business now then." He said and bowed before turning around and leaving the room. All in all, that hadn't been entirely unsuccessful.
Paying attention to the ongoing conversation between Kensuke and Haruka, She felt as if Kensuke was wrong to call that man in the manner he did. Just because of he had a slightly more unique appearance did not entitle him to get such a title. She also noticed the glance towards the tucked away painting canvas, which made Karma want to smirk, but she kept her calm expression. When Haruka stated they have a start to attend to, She couldn't help but feel as if Haruka was trying to make them go quicker away. Most likely due to Kensuke's nonchalant behavior, she thought as she watched him leave the room without waiting any further.
Turning back to Haruka, she decided that letting Kensuke's behavior dictate what others thought of her was not something she was going to let pass "Before I leave you to your own matters, Lady Taimyo, I wanted to know if I could perhaps have a more private conversation with you. I'm not asking for the meeting to occur immediately, of course, and I will also understand if you cannot grant me such a meeting." Karma said, her gaze briefly moving towards the painting canvas behind the closet.
Haruka would nod towards the team and seemed to turn around. Halfway during the motion she stopped as one of the team approached her. Blinking twice in a rapid fashion, Haruka seemed to waver. Turning to Karma, the Tamiyo would flash a polite smile. "I will see. Perhaps indeed later," Haruka answered, briefly following Karma's gaze. Briefly Haruka's eyes narrowed before turning her attention back to Karma, the polite smile still present on her lips.
Returning a smile, Karma bowed "Thank you for the consideration, Lady Taimyo." She said before rising from the bow and turning towards door "I hope you have a pleasant remainder of your day." She added as she made her way to the door, and soon she left the room, following Kensuke.
During the entire conversation Kyoi was patiently stood waiting for the time they would either be leaving or she would be asked to speak up, no prompts to talk came up despite how interesting the situation seemed, so all the Hyuuga did was give Haruka a small bow as farewell and turn to follow Kensuke out of the room. Admittedly she was more curious about Hallbjorn's presence more than any other detail of their encounter, it may have had something to do with Haruka's investigations into the Zealots or maybe just a private guard and attendant of sorts to the clan... Either way she wanted to find out more about him and they soon would seeing as Kensuke wanted words with him too.
Kensuke threw a glance at Karma as he knocked on the door for the guards to let them out. "You'll have more than enough time to catch up once we actually begin our shifts." He said, and nodded a thanks as the door was opened for him. He walked outside and looked around to see if this Hallbjörn was still around.
The guards outside would make some room for the team to pass by without any hinderance. Just as the team left Haruka's personal chambers, a door down the hall would open. The sight of the large man that went by the name of Hallbjörn left the room, his right hand rubbing the bridge of his nose. Closing the door behind him, the man would make way towards the opposite direction, further down the hall. A servant that had waited outside would bow towards Team 7. "I am to your assistance," the servant said. The appearance made it clear that the servant could not be older than eighteen and with a slim build, he seemed awfully frail as his pale complexion didn't do much to improve his appeal.
Kensuke's gaze switched between the Easterner and the servant besides him until he nodded at the young man. "Good. Can you find me Aratoshi-san? I would like to meet him in ... say half an hour, if that works for him." He told the pale man. It was curious how the boy could at best be two years younger than him, yet his frail physique made him appear almost fifteen. Kensuke then turned away from the servant and looked down the hall. "Hallbjörn? A word please." Kensuke called down the hall as the burly man turned away from them.
The servant seemed for a moment confused on who Kensuke could mean but he would make a bow and make his way to do what was requested of him. The large tattood man would half turn around, just as he had been ready to take a turn around the corner he was nearby. Spotting who were approaching him, a frown would appear on the brow of Hallbjörn as he remained silent while Team 7 closed in the distance with him. "Yes?" There was a certain accent faintly present in the deep and dark voice of the large man. His brown eyes moved his gaze over the group while his thumbs hooked behind his weapon belt.
Hearing Kensuke's remark about catching up later made Karma frown. It sounded as if he made her and Haruka be old friends that got to see each other again. While knowing he was just focused on doing his job, she didn't wish to have him make everyone around be completely unwilling to cooperate with them unless they had to. She wanted to inform the young appearing servant of more details about Aratoshi after spotting his brief confusion, but the young man quickly left and she watched as Kensuke walked towards Hallbjorn. Deciding to take quick action for a change, she quickly caught up to Kensuke and looked at Hallbjorn "Lady Taimyo told us we could speak to you regarding certain matters. And if I may inquire, but is your name from a Chonobi origin? I've met a few people with similar sounding names who are from the Chonobi clans." She said.
Kensuke raised an eyebrow at his student's quick interruption, and rolled his eyes at her inquiry of his origins. They were here on a mission to protect Haruka, not to talk about naming conventions. "Do you have a place where we can talk in private?" Kensuke asked the man, ignoring Karma's attempts to have a chat right in front of a dozen guards in a palace hallway.
The question of Karma caused Hallbjörn to briefly throw a glance at the girl. "Who knows." He simply retorted, clearly not eager to just spill beans to people that he had never seen before. The question of Kensuke caused the large man to frown once more. "Possibly. But why?" The man simply asked in return, no malice present in either his phrasing or tone.
The response from Hallbjorn didnt confirm or deny, only showed he was a private man. A good quality in a person, and she understood she most likely overstepped by asking such a thing without any prior introductions from their side. She did wonder if Kensuke's straight to business approach would fair any better in accomplishing things.
"Lady Haruka told us she trusted you. If we're to do a good job protecting her, it's best we have a chat." He said with a whiff of the shoulders, as if it all made good sense and there was no reason to delay. "If you're available of course." He added as an afterthought. Although, as what he suspected to be another bodyguard of Lady Haruka, it'd probably be best for him too if they talk. Even if it was just to figure out if this Konoha team was to be trusted.
For a second it seemed that the man was considering his options. A glance was thrown into the direction he had wanted to head before team 7 had approached him. "Follow me." He said while starting to walk back to the room he had left before. Opening the door, the team would be stepping into a room that wasn't as spacious as the chambers of Haruka but was clearly luxurious. It even had a small window that provided some view on the courtyard and other parts of the keep. There was a rack where various weapons were hanging of various designs and origins. Closing the door behind him, Hallbjörn would simply step a bit more into the room before turning back to team 7 and cross his arms. He remained silent, waiting for somebody of Team 7 to speak up first.
Kensuke nodded and followed the man inside what appeared to be his private quarters. They were luxurious to the point that Kensuke suspected the man was no simple bodyguard, or one with a reputation of his own. He glanced over the weapon rack and nodded appreciatively at the two spears and the long axe. Simple. Efficient. He turned to Hallbjörn and gestured for Kyoi to close the door behind them and gave Hallbjörn a look. "We're a team of Konohagakure shinobi who've been sent here - at Lady Haruka's request - to act as bodyguards against the threat of the zealots. I have done my research, but that only ever goes so far. We need to build up some data of people we can trust and how things work around here. You're not from around here and Lady Haruka said she trusts you, and given that you're allowed to be alone with her in a time like this, I take it that trust borders the absolute." Kensuke began, looking the Easterner in the eyes to judge his reaction. "She also said you've been a great help so far. That include any previous attempts or the running investigation towards the zealots?" He added.
Kyoi, quiet as ever, followed the conversation that lead them into Hallbjorn's room, her gaze drifting over everything in there. They lingered on the weapon rack for a moment before she shut the door to the room as per Kensuke's gesture whilst he was busy talking to the man, otherwise she kept quiet, mostly surveying the room with her eyes once more and activating her byakugan to make sure no one was trying to listen in through any of the nearby walls or windows.
The words of Kensuke caused Hallbjörn to briefly scratch his lazy bearded chin. A light scoff resonated from the man when he heard that Haruka trusted him. "It seems so," he briefly just commented on that. "Zealots? You folk sure have amusing terms for these sámr. But yes, I have done a bit of hunting. Not that I yet see any reason why I need to share information with people who I don't even know by name." The calm voice of the man held a sliver of amusement. "Other than that, I doubt I will be much of interest for your kind of folk." This statement would go together with Hallbjörn lightly shrugging his shoulders.
Following Hallbjorn into the room, Karma also listened in silence to the ongoing conversation. Both sides made points, but she understood Hallbjorn not wanting to share information with people who did not identify themselves as more than 'shinobi from Konoha' "I'm Karma Minami, Team 7 genin from Konohagakure." She introduced herself with a short bow, while thinking to herself that saying he wouldn't serve any interest beyond the information on Zealots would probably be off, both related to their mission and perhaps, if he would be willing, beyond it. But she would keep that thought to herself as she rose back up from the bow.
"Believe me, you will be." Kensuke said, shaking his head. They were inside a palace. It would be too much to say that Kensuke would kill for a pragmatically-minded ally who wouldn't colour his speech with flowery language, but it was close. "The name's Kensuke. You don't strike me as some fancy courtier. Which is to say, you'd probably know more about the practicalities of this place than most others we could ask." Kensuke introduced himself.
The man barely seemed to acknowledge the bow from Karma but did subtly incline his head towards the introduction. His attention shifted towards Kensuke as the Nimatsu spoke up. "I am not. Probably would make myself look like an idiot to say those fancy words," Hallbjörn grumbled as first reply. "I might, yes. The thing is that in my trade, doing matters for free is a rarity." Hallbjörn seemed to consider something as he eyed the group. Pointing at Kensuke's sheathed sword, the large man nodded. "How about either a trade or some ransom?"
The man's words piqued his interest when he said things weren't done for free. When the man suggested a trade and pointed at his sheathed weapons, that interest grew, along with a sly smile. There were some things he wouldn't trade. "Certainly. What did you have in mind?" He asked.
"You claim that you serve in the interest of the Tamiyo, at the moment. They are currently my source of revenue. If our goals align and we thus work towards a similar goal, there won't be much harm in keeping a weapon of yours ransom." Hallbjörn said, at first. He would glance at the visible gear that Karma and Kyoi had on them. "In order to safeguard my own trust somewhat, I want to make certain I have some leverage. Until, it is proven you truly are what you proclaim." The man concluded as he waited for what the answer would be.
Kensuke grew a grin once he knew what the man was talking about. He unsheathed his blade, casually, carefully, and handed it over for Hallbjörn to inspect. "Feel free to take a look." He said, unable to hide his pride over the newly forged blade. "I don't mind an insurance policy, it's good sense when you're dealing with shinobi. You must know of course," Kensuke said while he drew two kunai from hidden sheaths while he looked the Easterner in the eye. "that shinobi have fallbacks. Lots of them." He shrugged and put the knives back where they came from. "But let me ask you, wouldn't taking away my sword make me less capable of protecting our employer? Are you certain that this is the leverage you'll ask for?"
Taking the blade with a rather casual motion, Hallbjörn frowned. He studied the steel and ran a thumb at the blunt back of the katana. A soft grumble resonated from the large man. "I am aware. Dealt with worse." Shrugging lightly, Hallbjörn decided to bring up a question. "Hyuzu steel is rare to get by. Expensive and well sought after. Even more than Ecla forged weaponry. Stole it?" There was an amused tone accompanying Hallbjörn's question, marking it as a not serious accussation. "As to answer you question, not really. You got 'lots of fallbacks', don't you? If you thus don't mind, I will keep this princess with me. In any case, I will be willing to pledge on Valdar's name to not use it. I am used to my own equipment, anyways." Another shrug followed as the large man would wait to see what kind of question would be asked first, now that the deal seemed more or less sealed.
Kensuke shrugged. His pride flinched at the thought of leaving the sword with the Easterner, but as he'd said, he had lots of fallbacks. "Bought it. It's not cheap, so I'd rather you didn't lose it." He said. "But let's start with the beginning. How do we know that the zealots are trying to hit Haruka?" He said, consciously avoiding to look at the sword he'd just given away in loan for the man's trust.
As she paid attention to the ongoing conversation, Karma couldn't help but grasp a hold on the rope of the naginata that hung on her back. She hoped she wouldn't need to part from it. But the way he observed the sword made it somewhat clearer Hallbjorn appreciated metalworks, something she unfortunately did not have much knowledge at, and the mention of Ecla forged weaponry made her wonder if he is from the Chonobi clans after all. But she decided to stay silent some more for the time being, not feeling like she could contribiute anything to the conversation currently.
"I won't. I almost wonder now if you are afraid to lose one of your many fallbacks." A grin started to play around the corners of the man's lips. The question, however, caused the man to gain a serious expression. "Easy. They consider themselves clever but some of them are easy to spot. Got a sensor with you? I reckon the Hyuuga can come in handy," Hallbjörn threw a look at Kyoi as he spoke of her, "Some of those cowards have this weird chakra fluxation. Enables them to turn into beasts. Ironicaly, I enjoy hunting beasts. There are some who are more human but they haven't attempted to infiltrate the keep or surrounding. Yet," was Hallbjörn's answer on Kensuke's question.
It seemed to be a weird trade, loaning the Hallbjorn the sword Kensuke had recently come into ownership of in order to gain his trust, but if it got the man to trust them even a little she couldn't complain about it. The only problem was that she wasn't sure if she had any possession to offer in terms of trade if she needed to give something too, it thankfully seemed to be only Kensuke who had to offer something though. She raised a brow at being referenced to by Hallbjorn, but gave a small nod upon hearing him. "I will certainly keep my eyes out for them in case they manage to make their way into the keep, is there anything else about them that I should know? I have been informed about similar creatures before that could also drain chakra so I need to know if my arts will be effective or not. If you know, of course, sir."
"There's both shapeshifters and worse, the leaches. Both are very capable of hiding in public, although," Kensuke underlined Hallbjörn's statements, and paused to look at Kyoi. "they've proven to have a far harder time hiding from the Byakugan. They might seem like their appearance is different to your eyes than ours." He explained. "We've encountered them before. I can give you a look in the files I have on them." He added with a glance at both Kyoi and Hallbjörn. "What's the investigation taught us so far? Anything on their presence, plans or contacts? Haruka mentioned she feared moles, how large is this threat?" He then asked
Hallbjörn chuckled after hearing Kyoi's response. "There are worse creatures than what the sámr have conjured so far." Kensuke's addition made Hallbjörn consider something. "Pretty large, I reckon. I have dealt with various expeditions to sniff those cowards out of hiding. Almost managed to capture one but they tend to be fragile. Nothing concrete regarding their plans, though. Though I do believe that there is a plan in work to flush out some out of hiding. But you got to ask Haruka for permission to know more about that. I won't be participating. My main occupation here isn't to hunt men and beast, after all."
Kyoi nodded in affirmation. "I'll read over those once we're done here and stay on watch in case I see something amiss. I'd like to suggest that it may be best for me to be stationed in or near Haruka's room more often than yourself or Karma so that I can keep an eye on the area surrounding the room with my dojutsu. If you think it would be put to better use surveying those coming in and out of the keep, or even checking the city's citizens itself, then I have no qualms with that. I just have a preference to staying completely hidden whilst observing."
Tilting his head, Kensuke smiled at the burly man. "What are you here for then? Clearly you're not ordinary bodyguard, but you are employed in their service." He asked. "I'd also like you to tell us who you trust, and where you'd suspect any moles might've infilitrated. Your opinion as someone outside the system's better than the lot of them."
Hallbjörn seemed anything but interested in the conversation and planning that Team 7 had regarding guarding Haruka. The man briefly scratched his neck, only to look at Kensuke as the latter asked him a question. "My occupation here? A trainer of some sorts. The hunting is simply a boon, in my perspective. As for who I suspect and trust? I won't say that yet. I thought that you shinobi were capable of uncovering secrets and information." An amused expression became visible on the man's features. "So far, I had to give more than I assumed you managed to take yourself. But as things stand right now? I don't see any reason why I should share my opinions with you lot, yet."
He sighed, shook his head, and then laughed. "Right. We'll get on with our business then. Don't hesitate to let us know if you notice something out of the ordinary. Or if you feel like your opinion's worthy of being shared. Fair day to you." He said and turned around for the door, waiting to hear the man's reply.
"What is your surname?" Was the responding question of the large man, who once more folded his arms out front of his chest. He briefly threw a look at Karma and Kyoi, his gaze lingering a moment longer on the Hyuuga as she hadn't introduced herself. But that didn't seem to bother Hallbjörn much as he directed his attention towards Kensuke.
"What's yours?" Kensuke replied with a smile.
For a moment, Hallbjörn remained silent. Slowly a smile would grow on his lips. "Hon."
Kensuke's smile grew into a wolfish grin. "Nimatsu." He said, and headed back into the hallway.
Karma gave Hallbjorn a small bow before following Kensuke towards the hallway. While hearing that fact he was a Hon was a nice confirmation of her suspicions, she didn't want to indulge any further in it right now, as they still had another person to talk to, or at least, one Kensuke wanted to talk to, and the last thing she wanted was to hear another one of his remarks.
