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

[Aliceee]

[fieldbox=A talk between Sigeberth's descendants, #9a32cd]
At the Feast in Magnhild,
A collab between Oblivion and Aliceee.

Summary:
Kazumo and Kiyomi interact. They speak of the current feast. But then they also exchange some words about Kazumo's future and his main goal.

[spoili]
He felt a tad out of place at such a location, not the place itself but being in it while highly reputable leaders were gathered at. Aiko helped cover the cost of their attire to fit in a bit better, yet being around all these people was like career suicide. One bad move and that would be it, made him wonder how some of these people did it on a normal basis. Yet it was also a good way to study, see how some acted or presented themselves. They all seemed so fond of whoever they were interacting with, like they couldn't wait to talk with them. Well most did, he could have sworn he saw the Hyuuga representative glaring somewhere. He didn't dare talk to any of the higher ups just yet, however he did spy his niece out of the corner of his eye.

Taking a break from observing, he would do his best to not make it seem like he was in a hurry to talk to her. As he neared her, he would smile and offer a bow as to not seem rude to the others that may have been watching her. "Good evening your majesty, I hope you are faring well."

Watching the ongoings in the hall, Kiyomi kept subtle watch of various people. There were many representatives as leaders of their clans present. And thus, so far, there was no reason to think that there would be any problem on the rise. Holding a glass filled with some wine in both hands Kiyomi turned slightly when Kazumo approached her. The young monarch's right eyebrow slightly perked up. "Good evening, Master Sarutobi. I am faring so far quite well. Excellent company, in a splendid hall and alcohol without my Guard-commander or Sworn Swords attempting to snatch it away from me. What more could I desire?" Kiyomi replied back, a playful smile darting on her lips. "I must say, you're looking dandy. Hoping to impress somebody?~"

It felt a bit weird to talk with Kiyomi in such a formal matter, he understood why he had too. Yet on most occasion she usually would get on his case for being formal with her. Well this was in itself a learning process. He had to resist snorting at her not having to fend off anyone from taking her wine. Although it did fluster him a bit at her asking if he was trying to impress anyone. "Not quite, yet thank you for the compliment. Had to have Lady Cho offer her perspective on what would be deemed appropriate. You are also looking lovely tonight. " Kazumo said wondering if this was how everyone spoke at these kind of events. It felt odd to call his sensei by Lady Cho.

Now both eyebrows of the teen rose, by a bit, by hearing Kazumo's compliment. "I do? Oh please, Master Sarutobi. Could you elaborate what you would find so lovely then?" Kiyomi asked as her eyes slightly narrowed, in delight of asking such a question to 'corner' Kazumo. Only a second later would Kiyomi relieve him of answering the question. "Also, Kiyomi. It is okay." She said, switching to Chonobi instead of speaking further in the Taika language. "I have heard my titles and vocation more than enough for today. It is becoming quite dreadful."

Wait you can ask that as a response!? Kazumo was indeed caught off guard and his posture certainly faltered a bit as he looked a bit confused trying to come up with an appropriate response. The worst being he could tell she found it amusing to ask that question to him. "W-well, the way the outfit compliments you of course." he stated hoping that would be a passable answer when suddenly she switched to Chonobi and began speaking in a tone he was familiar with. This was the biggest relief he has had in a while, still had to act appropriate though. "That many times huh? Yet you still find time to tease the one new to these situations." he said with a slight smile. "You do look lovely though, the outfit suits you really well. I'm sure most Chonobi leaders here would agree."

A smile became more present on Kiyomi's features as she didn't hide her joy of plaguing Kazumo with such questions. "Enough to make me be quite happy to be addressed by my name. Same as for teasing. Not many clan leaders or representatives that I could subject to my humour or torture. Or at least," the teen scoffed, "Not reacting in a fun enough way. But thank you. I like it myself." Taking a sip of her drink, she paused for a second. "Though, most Chonobi leaders? Do you think that the Taika clan leaders as representatives will disagree with my attire?"

"Well I can be one less to call you by your title then for tonight Kiyomi, and I hope they wouldn't openly disagree with your attire choice. I may be new but even I'm not that clueless." Kazumo said looking around. "Only one I could really see openly disagreeing with it might be that Hyuuga lady. Seems rather… cranky?" Kazumo said using the best word he could to get the point across, just in a nicer way.

"Let her be. The Hyuuga clan seems to lack proper diplomats. Previous clan meeting they had send a worse one. So arrogant that I even dreaded that I couldn't match the man's ego with my own." Kiyomi half joked. She shot a sideways glance at Kazumo. "But most are playing a certain game. It is hard to see through it, what each person's agenda is. It can be quite interesting and fun. But I prefer just straightforward dealings from time to time. Which does make me wonder, how you would act if you were a clan leader right now?"

They sent an arrogant leader twice to the clan meetings? That sounded like a horrible decision since they weren't the most popular right now, mostly after several losses in their own leadership. It was a bit scary to hear her refer to these events as a game, although he could see what she meant. Although she would ask him which kind would he be, the one to play games or be straightforward. "Well I guess that all depends on the person I would be talking with. I wouldn't need to play games with people I feel close to, yet I guess I would have to play both sides. Be straightforward with some, and a bit mysterious with others?" Kazumo said before showing a bit of a defeated smile. "Been trying to study how people act at these events, yet I'm not making much heads or tails of it. I guess professionals don't slip up that easily."

Listening to Kazumo's answer, Kiyomi remained silent. She let her gaze move over what they could see from their position. Taking a sip of her drink, the teen remained further silent. "You're just starting to grasp the games that are being played here. Interesting enough, the big dogs don't play a game of words. They are able to be straightforward. Great examples are Lord Uchiha or Lord Hon. Both are more than capable of playing and going with the game but nobody dares to speak against them when they don't conform according to the… unwritten rules." Kiyomi explained on a softer tone. "Observation and experimentation is the way to go in this case. You can consider yourself somewhat lucky though."

A sly smile crept on Kiyomi's lips as she shot him another sideways glance. "As a relative, adopted or not, you are not just some commoner. So most will be keen to forgive any small mistakes you'll make. Likely in exchange to gain your favour and perhaps lobby an idea or suggestion back at me. Clearly hoping that I will be much easier influenced by what you have to say."

She made it sound like this was all easy to her, made him wonder how long it took for her to grasp every concept. Yet there were small players and big players? He was going to have to watch from afar more intently then. They all looked like big players with how they acted, then again it might be terrifying to get on the wrong side of anyone that was well known. The ways they could hinder someone without even touching them was a scary thought. Yet it was good to know, that some might try to use him in order to get closer to Kiyomi. Although he had that thought already. "In a way I guessed that much. After all it makes sense to try and persuade the gullible new guy to get his relative to listen to their ideas. Thankfully I'm not that bad."

"I hope so," Kiyomi said as she flashed a smile towards Kazumo. "Else it wouldn't work anyways. I consider myself too stubborn. That and it would be quite odd to suddenly hear you speak of a plan that somehow involves the Akimichi clan or some nobility from the Grass province. Unless," a soft chuckle escaped Kiyomi as she nudged Kazumo gently. "They manage to use a bribe. Perhaps a 'lovely maid'. Would make quite the story. The gullible fool being 'convinced' with some attractive, noble, young lady."

When she brought up them bribing him with a pretty lady, he couldn't help but smile and shake his head. "I remember you telling me, I wasn't allowed to bring any ladies home with that promise. So don't think I will be gullible in that spot either. Besides, it would take more than just looks to make me fall for anything."

"Ah, you remember that? Good!" Kiyomi couldn't help but snicker for a second. "I hope a lot more. I would perhaps even be willing to say yes sooner to you than to most clan leaders." She added before taking a sip of her drink. "I am intending to stay for some time in Magnhild. I got some affairs that require my attention here. Perhaps I can even see to it that I will personally train you in wielding a sword. Like the Kusanagi say, don't waste anything."

"Not quite sure how long we would be staying here. I don't think it would be for long, I believe Aiko intends to get us more prepared before setting out. Which I don't know when will be the next time we will be able to chat like this. So I would welcome the training..." Kazumo said as he would then look at the ground a more serious expression taking over.
"Is it odd that I'm not scared, but I'm more worried about who I will become after its all said and done?"

It remained silent between the two. Kiyomi kept her eyes from Kazumo, scanning those in front of them. "No. You're right to be worried." She simply answered. Turning half around to face Kazumo better, a frown would appear on Kiyomi's brow. "If you would be so certain of who you would be with so many unknown factors and future events, I would have declared you insane. If somebody would have told me that I would become like this years ago, I would have likely be quite confused. Scared shitless, more likely." Placing her left hand on Kazumo's shoulder, Kiyomi softly squeezed. "But don't worry yourself sick. Just do what you believe is right and you should be doing fine." She further added before pulling her hand back.

"Well I'm no seer. I can't say what kind of man I'll become. Just more worried that it won't be for the better. Yet I'm causing myself to worry over something that hasn't even happened yet." Giving a smile, he would tilt his head slightly at her. "So were you confused and scared shitless? At becoming what you are now? Keeping everyone in check, hell I'd be scared shitless too."

"Yes and no." Was the answer, a hint of amusement clear in Kiyomi's voice. The answer would be followed with a smile as Kiyomi could remember the developments that led to her current occupation. They hadn't occurred more than a year ago, which wasn't that long ago. "But yeah, I was pretty shaken by what I was given. Luckily I had great help and still do. Much like you can rely on Aiko, I can rely on the likes of Zakito and other people to aid me in my ruling over the realm." Kiyomi explained as she briefly glanced at the small quantity of wine in her glass. "But now? It isn't that much different from what I learned and observed as my role as the apprentice of the Yondaime Hokage. Politics is learning how people play the game. I only am a major player myself."

"Think I will be relying on Aiko for a long time to come. How to be a capable leader, how to perform diplomatic decisions, how to spot the lies from truth, who wants self gain. You get the idea." Kazumo said with a more relaxed smile. "Good thing I enjoy learning. Yet I probably stole enough time from you. I can just sense the angry looks being directed at me. Before I leave though, we have too meet up again."

Kiyomi threw a subtle glance to the side. There were a few people who were waiting to jump in and have a chance to speak to her. "And? Let them be angry. But I will allow you to explore the feast by yourself for a bit. I will see to it that we will spend some time this evening. I do intend to join some singing after all." Winking with her left eye, she would follow suit with a graceful bow towards Kazumo. "Master Sarutobi," she said, adding to the respectful and elegant bow through her legs.

"I'm not the best when it comes to singing, yet I doubt you will let me escape that. So I will see you later on this evening then." he said almost just walking away before she would remind him that it was polite to bow before leaving. So returning the gesture he would smile at her. "I hope you enjoy the event, your majesty." Kazumo would say before walking away to get himself his own refreshment.
[/spoili]
[/fieldbox]

 

[Gerontis]

[fieldbox=The Crimson Lord and Hanta Leader, teal]
At Magnhild's Feast, Empire of Akino.
Makoto Hanta and Shozo Uchiha

A collab between Jason and Gero

Summary:
Makoto approaches Shozo and the two clan leaders have a talk. Makoto has some suggestions for the Uchiha leader, hoping to progress his agenda.

[spoili]
Making his way through the small crowd of representatives, Makoto was looking for one man in particular. Shozo Uchiha, the leader of the Uchiha Clan and a close ally of the Hanta. Giving polite nods and words as he passed through the group, Makoto mentally grumbled about how he was getting too old for this. Everything felt sore on most days now, though that was likely attributed to reminders of the injuries from back in his youth. It would be a bit longer before the old Hanta found exactly who he was looking for at the center, and began steadily approaching. His approach was heralded by the sound of his cane tapping the floor with each step as drew close to Shozo.

Giving a light bow of the head, the old man greeted his comrade. "Lord Uchiha." He said in a polite tone, waiting for the other to acknowledge him before continuing. "I hope I'm not disturbing anything, thought a brief chat about matters might be in order." He said, cutting closer to the point. Makoto had never been a fan of all the roundabouts and pleasantries with politics, and as such usually got to the point sooner rather than later in such situations. As he waited for the Uchiha Clan leader to respond, the man would turn down the offer of a drink from a passing servant. As much as he wanted it, abilities were a tad limited with a cane in one hand and the lack of the other arm.

Taking a sip of his drink, Shozo's features were blank. He was somewhat contented with the effort that was made to make certain that the refreshments as beverages weren't just of Chonobi cuisine. The rich flavour of the sake was certainly welcome. Spotting movement in the corner of his eyes, Shozo would slowly turn around to spot that Lord Hanta was the one that approached him. Returning the light bow in turn, Shozo shook his head gently. "Lord Hanta. No, you're not disturbing me." Taking a sip of his drink, he would nod once. "You got my attention, Lord Hanta. What is that you desire to discuss with me?"

As Shozo turned towards him and seemed that he was interested for the moment, Makoto nodded for a moment. "I would actually like to discuss some matters involving reinforcing the relationship between our clans. Something to symbolize our already close relationship. Perhaps another marriage between our clans? My youngest daughter has recently come of age, a very promising young lady." He said calmly, wanting to see how this went before suggesting some of the other matters he had on his mind for their conversation.

Shozo's features shifted.He listened to what Makoto brought up and a second of silence would follow the Hanta's suggestion."A most interesting offer, Lord Hanta. As you might have guessed, I would feel nothing against to see our clans become closer. Your people have always been a most faithful and trustworthy neighbour as ally to mine." The old man wouldn't smile. The Uchiha's tone was even as he meant it word for word. "I will take a look to see if I can bring up a worthy candidate. May I know more of your daughter? To see if we can fix a fitting match for her." Shozo further added as he would hold his glass with both hands.

It seemed to be going well, though Makoto did not particularly expect otherwise. Shozo had been right that Makoto had guessed he would. "Certainly, Lord Uchiha. Amaya has just had her 16th, and with it passed the rites. She's truly a beautiful girl, smart as one could be. She excelled in her training on how to be a good wife, and even seems to have a bit of a head for Politics." He said with a light laugh, and the hints of a smile on his features. "I fear one day she might outwit even myself in the political realm. She's a fairly active girl, and even has a penchant for painting. You should see some of the works she's done, Lord Uchiha, its spectacular." He said before waving his hand for a moment. "Ah but I digress. Overall, she's everything I could wish for in a daughter, surely the perfect wife for one of yours. If you wish, we can stop by Seijou on the way back to meet young Amaya if that might help." He finished off, raising an eyebrow as he waited for the other clan leader's reaction.

Shozo tried to remember if he had ever heard of the particular young lady in question. Unable to bring up any face or thought to the name, he would push any further attempt from his mind. Hearing the praises that Makoto gave the girl made Shozo faintly smile. "She surely sounds like she is a worthy match. But nothing less expected from the Hanta clan." Shozo replied. "I find the proposal most delightful, Lord Hanta. You may certainly consider me open for future discussions regarding a potential betrothal or arrangement in the near future. Though I hope you will not mind that I need to search for a worthy candidate to match such a lovely young lady. I wouldn't like to bring any bad blood between our people and clans." The old man briefly paused.

"I do think that I may send one of my entourages to accompany you when you travel back to Seijou. I, myself, desire to head back to Konohagakure. I find the warmer climate to be more pleasant."

Makoto nodded along, it was only fair that Shozo try to find somebody fitting of Amaya. He certainly wouldn't have been happy to see her end up with somebody awful. Though the two clans had several marriages over the years, so Makoto felt confident it would be a good choice. "A shame you couldn't join us, Lord Uchiha. We would have been happy to host. I must say I do understand, however. The cold does not treat my old bones nicely." The man said with a laugh. ["I did also wish to talk to you about some other matters, should you have time." He added, wanting to discuss the possibility of strengthening their borders with all the instability.

"As it stands now, I have ample time. It would be incredible rude to leave this feast so early, after all," Shozo replied. The ghost of a smile briefly touched his lips but an even expression spread over the old Uchiha's features. "What would you wish to discuss with me, Lord Hanta?"

Nodding simply, the Hanta looked towards Shozo with as even an expression as the Uchiha wore. "The… instability of these times is causing some of my clan to worry. With the friendship and alliance between the Hanta and Uchiha having always been strong, I think it might put some at ease if we did perhaps some joint patrols along our borders. An effort to comfort our people, seeing some of the recent events." Makoto said simply, hoping the Uchiha might agree to some sort of action along their borders. Some of the Hanta worried about their safety, an understandable fret given those nasty rumors traders from the Rain had been saying about what happened. Hopefully an action such as this might restore some comfort to the hearts of his people.

Shozo weighted the option. He was well aware of that everywhere unrest was present. Here more than there, true. If anything, the Imperial military was doing its job but they couldn't be everywhere. Something that could work in the Uchiha's advantage, despite Shozo not eager to send his clan's troop to spend an effort in defending another clan. It wasn't like he had an abundance of soldiers with the Imperial conscription. "I wouldn't mind but I will have to discuss it with my commanders. I do hope that you have something in mind to help me convince my commanders. After all, favours given should be returned, don't you agree Lord Hanta?"

Makoto nodded at first before responding. "I do find myself in agreement, Lord Uchiha. I shall find something which should help you convince your commanders, then we can discuss more details then. Should that be agreeable to you." Makoto said, not overly surprised at the Uchiha wanting some favor in return. He'd have to find something, perhaps a gift or lucrative trade deal? He wasn't sure just yet, but that was something he could figure out at a later date.

The Uchiha slightly raised his chin as Makoto replied. "Good. I find that most agreeable. Obviously, you know where to find me once you have decided on what to place on the table. I shall hold council with some of my commanders to see how much forces I can afford on joint-patrols with your forces, Lord Hanta." The old man waited for a second. "After all, I do hope that the unrest won't rise up between us. That would be quite, bad."

Makoto nodded solemnly in response to Shozo. "That much is certain. Though I doubt it could be much of a match for our combined forces." Makoto said calmly, looking around for a brief moment. After a brief stint of silence, the two men continued their discussion of various matters between their clans. It would be another bit before they parted ways, having finished their discussion of the relevant matters and thus having no need to further continue the conversation. Makoto moved to find himself a drink, and preferably a place to enjoy said drink without worry about losing his cane then likely his balance. Overall, things seemed to be going well so far to the Hanta leader.

[/spoili]
[/fieldbox]

 

[Gerontis]

[fieldbox=To Each their Own, brown]
At Magnhild's Feast, Empire of Akino.
Lord Gakuro Senju and Lord Governor Takeo Tamiyo

A collab between Lord Nim and Lord Gero.

Summary:
Gakuro Senju and Takeo Tamiyo have some interaction. They speak of the clan meeting as discussing some of their opinions regarding clans that have less prestige and resources than they have.

[spoili]
He glanced around, raising the glass to his lips. Taking a small sip from his drink, Takeo could appreciate the large variety of refreshments. There were the beverages as delights that he was already known with, having similar or the same back at home. But some of the unknown drinks and bites were quite good and Takeo wondered if he could bring some of these recipes back home. With the clan meeting done, Takeo had done his observations of who he should approach or contact. Despite the feast being great and to wind down after the hours long of discussing and talking, it was 'the' moment to try to lobby and form pacts. Or curry favours. Something that not everybody likely understood as Takeo couldn't see everybody from the meeting at the feast.
Spotting a recognizable person, the plump man would rally his courage. Taking two breaths in, he would walk with an odd dignity towards the man that had caught his attention.

"Lord Senju," Takeo began, making a small bow towards the younger man. "I hope that you're enjoying this grand feast as much as I am doing. It is certainly a delight to be in the presence of such leaders of venerable, respected as mighty clans. Such as the Senju." A warm smile dawned on Takeo's lips as he paused for a second. "Might I be so devilishly bold to acquire your opinion on some of these drinks? I find some ravishingly delicious. Though I am uncertain what they are called."


Looking over one of the tapestries that was influenced by the Chonobi culture, Gakuro pondered briefly if perhaps his clan could stand to gain from attempting to recover older art pieces that were present in some of the Senju temples that hid around the lands his clan owned. They had been lost in time, and maybe now, at a time when it felt the clan was at its weakest point to him, bringing up the history and culture would only help strengthen it once more.

Before he could continue to think about the matter, the rather plump Lord that sat on almost the opposite corner from him during the meeting had approached him with quite the honorable manner "Lord Tamiyo. It is indeed a very enjoyable event to be a part of, and seeing myself being amongst all of the people here, despite my young age, is something that is hard for me to comprehend with each meeting. Standing here besides you, who leads such a prominent clan, is something I feel truly fortunate for." Gakuro said with a gentle smile. Looking at the sparkling drink in Takeo's hand, the young Senju leader shrugged "I am afraid I do not know their name myself. I would not be surprised if those are drinks which are from a Chonobi origin, considering where we currently stand." He said with a brief look around the impressively sized hall.

Takeo would snicker softly, his eyes closed for a second. "Oh, my good lord, age is such a trivial matter with occasions like these. Look at her Majesty, all respect. She is young and capable. Don't sell yourself too short now! Else I would bring shame to the title of lord." Takeo said, the cheerful tone dominant in the man's voice. "You think? It is different from sake. But it could be a Tokugawa brew. Those folk excel in brewing some excellent beverages, if I must say so myself." For a moment, Takeo glanced from his drink to Gakuro.

"So, may I ask what your opinion or preference would be for the next location of the clan meeting? I think that it would be quite interesting if we would keep moving it from one place to another. Not only for the share of prestige, holding events such as these. But learning some local cuisine sounds quite nice, doesn't it?"

While he had agreed with Takeo regarding her Majesty, the young Senju was still uncertain if he had done anything yet that is deserving of being called "Lord Senju", like many that came before him. But there was still time to change that. Listening to what Takeo said about the Tokugawa beverages, he nodded. They knew how to make fine beverages indeed. When his next question was brought up, Gakuro closed his eyes briefly.

"Well, that is a good question. I believe everyone here would be more than honoured to have the next meeting take place in their lands, including myself, and I would personally be honoured to also come to the lands of any of the other clans. However," Gakuro opened his eyes and looked at Lord Tamiyo "I do not feel like the Senju clan are ready just yet to host. I feel that given some recent actions has brought the clan's standing into more doubt and now I should first make it better before suggesting my clan lands as home to the prestigious clan meeting. I would very much like to see it in Hanaguro, under your host. I am certain it would be a glorious meeting to attend." Gakuro said with a polite smile.

Though he nodded, Takeo wasn't agreeing with what Gakuro said. If anything, being able to host as provide a lavish or grand feast and display of wealth, prestige and power was 'the' way to gain or recover some prestige. But he wouldn't disagree in a place or time as they were in now. "If you say so, Lord Senju. I must say that I feel sorry that you aren't eager to put your own hearth to host the next meeting. I am certain that many would have enjoyed the prospect of enjoying some legendary Senju hospitality." Takeo took a small sip of the drink and visibly seemed to enjoy the bustling taste, which rolled over his taste buds.

"Though, I wonder who it then will be. I haven't heard much from some of those smaller Rain clans. They don't seem to be much of a talkative or engaging bunch. Wouldn't you agree?"

Thinking of the Rain clans, he was unsure of whether to agree or disagree. He had heard rumours of a few destabilizing events that occurred in the shinobi village of the Rain, which could've also influenced those clans. But speaking his mind about matters through rumours could be a rather bad move on his part "They indeed don't appear to be the most talkative as of now. But just because they are not speaking now does not mean they are against speaking at all times." Gakuro said, looking towards Lord Tamiyo "Making assumptions instead of attempting to talk directly to them could only bring about the downfall of any possible future cooperation between the clans before it ever had a chance to be established." He added.

A servant approached Gakuro with a tray of a few drinks, and the young Senju leader decided to take one which had what appeared to be the same drink as the one Lord Tamiyo was enjoying currently.

"But why come if you're not going to speak? Just being there and saying nothing seems much worse than incapable of traveling towards the site of the meeting." Takeo said, his head slightly tilting. "Besides, I would love to make a conversation. But hard to make one when the other party is more silent than a river that ran dry. And more distant than the clouds in the sky." Takeo shook his head, as if they were merely talking about some kids that had been naughty.

"I think it would be much more beneficial if they had spoken or been more active during the meeting. I am certain it could aid the Rain province if they were able to bring more attention to the region. After all," the right eyebrow of Takeo perked up slightly, "It is the province that is economic wise the weakest. Costing the Empire more than it provides from what I can tell."

"Perhaps," Gakuro turned to look towards Takeo "It is not that they do not wish to ask for help, but rather their sense of pride? I know from people I met that throwing away one's own pride can be a difficult thing to do. But perhaps those clans sent the wrong representatives for this type of meeting. We can probably stand here and make assumptions for quite some time. But I do agree the Rain province could certainly use more attention in the economic side. I am uncertain of how costly it is for the Empire, but from what knowledge I have about the trade within Konohagakure and my clan, it appears to be the weakest with the Rain as it stands." He said.

Taking a sip from his glass, Gakuro could certainly see why Takeo seemed to enjoy this drink so much, if it was the same drink "If I may ask, where do you think the next meeting should be held?" The young Senju leader asked with a polite tone.

Taking a sip of his drink, Takeo listened to Gakuro. "And speaking up in a meeting is not a show of pride? I think that you're too cautious regarding these Rain clans, good lord Senju. By remaining silent, they are throwing away the possibility to do or mean something more. It isn't a shame to speak up. Nor is it required to ask help." The Tamiyo still spoke with a friendly tone but he wasn't so sure if the younger man understood this political concept. Or perhaps their opinions just were different. Either way, it was more than acceptable.

"If anything, I believe that we shouldn't concern ourselves with bettering the economy in the Rain. Other regions could thrive much better and sooner than that badlands. My words weren't meant that they should get more attention. If anything, I am of the opinion if her Majesty would just throw their privileges away and make something productive out of it. If all the rumours are correct, those folk could use some real leadership, for they have trouble to govern themselves."

The question of Gakuro caused Takeo to consider a for second. "I think I would favour something as one of the Yakimara clans. Then again, that isn't too far from my own holding. The weather is, in any case, quite hospitable. Though I must say that if the winters in these parts of the Empire are so rough, it only explains why the locals are rumoured to be so fierce."

Holding his glass, Gakuro was unsure of what to think of Lord Tamiyo's thoughts about the Rain province. It was true that it did not hear as though they had the most stable of leaderships, but he certainly did not feel as though that means they should not have the right to govern themselves. They had been a country prior to joining the Fire Union, and they were given the right to have a govern with a title of a Kage from the Empress. It would be a severe show of lack of faith to throw all that away, just as Lord Tamiyo did just now.

When Takeo responded to his question, the young Senju nodded "It would certainly be nice to see a meeting in the Yakimara lands. And as I said before, it would be nice to see a meeting held in your own hold. He said before taking a sip of his drink while thinking of the Hons "There could be many reasons as to why the locals are rumoured to be fierce, if to go by some of the history books." He added, wondering silently where Lord Hon was in the hall.

Once more, Takeo would take a sip of his drink. He did notice that Gakuro didn't engage the previous points any further. It didn't tell too much but it was making Takeo wonder if the Senju was just unwilling or uncertain of how to proceed those points. "It warms my heart to know that such a respectful individual says something like that," flashing a smile, Takeo would continue. "I reckon. Their manners are still strange to me. Fascinating, for sure. But still quite different from what I am used to. I was considering to see if I could enlist a few or invite them to my court. To learn more about them and their manners."

"Enlisting some or inviting them to your court could certainly be one good way to learn about them. While I am curious myself and would enjoy an opportunity to learn more, I don't think I would try to force it. If such a chance arises, then I happily take it, but I do not intend on trying to learn about another's culture, mannerism or such if they do not wish for me to learn about them." The young Senju said before taking a sip of his drink.

"And how would you then try to gain a chance, if you don't mind me asking Lord Senju?" Takeo decided to ask. "If you never try to force something to happen then small chance you'll ever be able to manage all of your ambitions and goals. Unless, you know a better way." The man decided to take one last sip to empty his glass. "Unless you imply that I am going to try to force it." The amused tone in the voice of Takeo did mark it clear that he didn't feel personally attacked by Gakuro's words.

Listening to Takeo's words, Gakuro would slightly shrug "I am not suggesting you will force it. And I personally believe that building things, over time, is a better course of action. Building trust, honour, prestige. Just because the option to force things is there does not mean it is the better option, in my personal opinion. And while it is likely not all my ambitions or goals will be accomplished in my lifetime, I could leave it as something for future generations to accomplish." He spoke in a polite tone, glancing at his glass "But, of course, this is just my opinion." He finished talking and took another sip from his glass.

"I am of firm belief it is the moment that may enforce or persuade one to take it slower. If one doesn't try to accomplish their ambitions then no point in having them. Progress must be made in one way or else it might very well be a sign of laziness, wouldn't you agree?" Takeo replied, his smile slightly growing. "After all, leaving something for the next generation to be done is nice. But it is certainly grand when you can allow them to enjoy the fruit of your success instead of working for it themselves."

It would probably be nice, Gakuro thought to himself as he finished listening to Takeo's words. He wasn't left in such a place though, so he couldn't say he knew the feeling himself "If no progress was made over the course of one's leadership, then yes, it would be a sign of laziness. But when I said building things over time is my preference, I did not mean not trying to accomplish them at all. I was trying to suggest that I think it is better to be more on the cautious side in my opinion. Many of my predecessors acted in a more forceful manner, and my first actions were also towards the more forceful side. And I am inclined to say that in my opinion, choosing that manner was not the best for my clan." The young Senju lord said.

There was something on Takeo's tongue but he wouldn't let it slip and become vocal. "We all make mistakes, Lord Senju. It is part of life. Besides, young age often means that learning needs to be done. If one would know already too much from a young age, not a lot of life could be enjoyed as learning is one of those delights. At least, that is how I see it." The plump man chuckled. "Though caution can serve one's purpose or path well, I am not so certain if it is that beneficial. I feel like we are in an age where passivity only begets regret and stagnation. Though not all feel the same, I wager."

"To each their own opinion, indeed." The young Senju lord spoke before taking another sip of his glass.

"To each their own, Lord Senju." Takeo would flash once more a smile as he followed it with a small bow. In a rather graceful as fluid movement, he would turn half around and start walking away.

[/spoili]
[/fieldbox]

 

[conman2163]

[fieldbox="The Omari Approach the Empress, red, solid"]

A Collaboration by:
Alice and Conman!

Summary:

Feeling out of place at the feast, Chu does not wish to join in the festivities. However, an encounter with the Empress pushes him into the fray of politics and political attachments.

Spoiler

Taking a sip of her drink, Kiyomi glanced at the scenery in front of her. Holding the glass with both hands, she wondered about something. Pushing the thought to the back of her mind, Kiyomi took another sip of her drink. There wasn't much of the alcoholic liquid residing in the glass but she decided that it would be her last drink. At least, for now. There were still a large number of interesting of people that she could approach. But perhaps it would be better to let some of them try to approach her.

The idea gained more holding in her mind. Perhaps she should even see if she could vanish for a time from the event. But that would be far from proper. And she considered herself a tad too old for such rebellious actions. Or too mature? A frown briefly appeared on Kiyomi's brow as she decided to walk slowly through the bustling of the large hall.

Chu swished the alcohol in his glass around, examining the liquid. The feast that was going on was certainly busy, and Chu was here more out of obligation then out of want. He had no wish to drink alcohol either, not that he detested the liquid, but rather because he had a low tolerance for it. Because of this he prefered to drink more privately then openly. Hence he was still drinking what was to be both his first and last drink. Chu felt naked without his family sword at his side, but it was unavoidable, weapons had been barred from the gathering. As Chu moseyed his way through the hall, he found himself in front of Kiyomi, the Empress, walking through the bustling crowd. As he was in her path, he bowed politely. "Good evening Empress, I trust you are well?" Chu found himself asking the follow-up question to his greeting almost unconsciously.

Halting her slow pace, Kiyomi's eyes briefly narrowed as she eyed the figure in front of her. It took a second to realise who had addressed her. Returning the bow with one of her own, gracefully lowering herself through her legs, Kiyomi flashed a polite smile. "Lord Omari. Yes, I am thus so far doing splendid. I can't argue that it has to do with the fact that it is a feast instead of another meeting. I hope you are enjoying yourself so far as well?" She replied, taking another step to close the distance between them.

Chu nodded to her inquiry. "Indeed I am enjoying myself. The feast is a brilliant display of generosity, and a tribute to the graciousness of our hosts." Chu was not lying when he said this, though he did not exactly feel comfortable at such a large gathering. "I do feel that it is nice to be able to enjoy the merriment rather then worry about the formal politics of a meeting." Chu remarked, though he knew that it was not entirely true. Despite not being in a formal meeting, he could not afford to embarrass himself even in informal greetings at this gathering. Chu did not move, allowing Kiyomi to close the distance.

"Indeed. Some leaders of the Great Clans surely know how to throw a party." Kiyomi said as she wondered for a moment on if she should ask Chu Omari on what he liked the most about it. He was of another culture and clan. Hell, even a different region. "The formal politics can be quite exhausting. Though I can say that the informal dealings can be even worse. Never seems to end, in any case. Or," Kiyomi's facial expression changed, amusement becoming evident. "Have you yet to experience that? I must say that I am quite lacking on how the clans of the Rain actually deal with politics. Seeing that most are smaller in size of land and resources."

Chu nodded thoughtfully at Kiyomi's question. "The Omari clan, as I can not speak for others, has maintained a strict code of isolation. We only broke it shortly before the Rain joined the Empire. History taught us harsh lessons when it came to any political attachments. However, my clan prefers to speak clearly and openly about what one wishes from another. It is…. difficult to adjust to those who are not so clear." Chu looked down for a moment at his glass before continuing. [color=cyan"Attending these meetings has most certainly been a learning experience, and the informal talks that the other clans seem to enjoy so frequently are indeed new to me. Are such politics more common in the more Eastern parts of the empire?"[/color]

Subtly nodding, Kiyomi already had five questions at the ready. But she would listen to what Chu had to say. Making a mental note, she decided that she would investigate on how the clans in the Rain conducted their politics internal as external. "I suppose that is why there isn't much information I could find about the Omari. If anything," Kiyomi flashed a smile as she gestured to herself. "We can speak openly and clearly. I am from an origin that is pretty… clear when it comes to verbally stating matters. If anything, I still need to get adjust to how many clans and dynasties conduct politics. Certainly if the rules of conduct can differ so vastly." Letting out a sigh, she briefly shook her head.

"Anyhow, to answer you question. No. Depending obviously where you go, it might slightly differ. But most of the eastern parts are quite… direct. There is some formality but it is much less than said regions where Taika culture is dominant." Kiyomi answered. "I must ask though. Have you been a clan leader for a long time? No offense, of course, Lord Omari. But you don't seem to be much older than me. Unless," a grin dawned on the monarch's lips. "You potentially have discovered the secret of youth? I am certain some old farts would be willing to sell their estates if you did."

Chu listened quietly to Kiyomi's reply, allowing a small chuckle to escape and a grin to break upon his otherwise composed face upon hearing her joke. It was good to know that the Omari's integrity was well maintained. "No, unfortunately I have not found such an elusive secret. It is good to know that other parts of the empire are direct in their dealings." Chu said whilst contemplating his reply to the Empress. "To be quite honest Empress, I only took over as clan head eight years ago. When my father died, the mantle of clan leader fell to me. Is it uncommon for one to be young and lead a clan in other parts of the empire?"

"A shame, truly. Could have made yourself quite rich, I imagine." Kiyomi commented on Chu's answer regarding her previous question. "Ah. My condolences then. Perhaps a tad late. But hmmm. Depends once more. Most parts do not turn away young rulers. As long as they have capable regents and advisers. Stating and tutoring them on important matters. Some parts and clans even detest the idea of a hereditary succession. Following some strict codes on how one is capable of taking the mantle of leadership. But," Kiyomi lightly scoffed, "That is all dull talking. I would love to hear more about the Omari. You lot are located too far away from the eastern parts to have extensive interaction in the past. But how is it with River clans? Any feuds that the Omari have? Would you consider isolation to be something beneficial or not for your clan?" The teenage monarch asked, though the pacing of her questions not fast, clearly giving into her curiousity.

Chu raised an eyebrow, letting out a small chuckle again. "You certainly have many questions about my Clan. I am humbled by the curiosity and interest shown from someone in a position of such power as you are." Chu seemed to think for a moment before speaking further. "To begin with the Omari have always been isolationist, though not in the way some might think. We discourage marrying within the clan, so often it is that the members of our clan in the past would leave to find husbands or wives in the adjoining villages near our province. New blood and ideas are always being brought into the clan through this practice, and large swathes of land came into the clan through inheritance, however up until my ascension to acting clan head and the decree I issued we had no relations with any sort of formal government, and no outsider was allowed into our compound. But with so many familial ties in the region it was hardly isolation in the strictest sense." Chu paused for a moment again before continuing. "Feuds in our region of the Rain have always sought to be prevented by atonement or confrontation, and almost all of them have been between clan members and solved immediately. The elders of our clan have always been revered mediators in such situations, passing down fair and impartial judgement." Chu stopped there, giving pause so that Kiyomi could field any questions she had.

"Of course. I imagine that you might have questions about more eastern clans. I know a fair deal about many Taika clans. Though as you might have guessed, my true expertise lies with the Chonobi. Born and raised as one, makes it easier to understand as known more about them." Kiyomi said as she would make another note about the Omari. "And how are the Omari doing now? Being not bound by an isolationist policy. I can imagine that other than not fully knowledgeable about further away clans, some might feel. Threatened? Scared?"

Chu chose to respond to the second question before the first. "The Omari get along well. We train ourselves to be warriors and farmers, but the placement of our territory ensures that we do not have to worry much about other clans. It is more a driving curiosity that possesses our clan now. For over a century and a half we have chosen isolation. The new opportunities that have appeared after removing ourselves from such a policy are abundant." Chu finished and then decided to address Kiyomi's previous offer. "I appreciate your offer Empress, and I would begin with asking the same question you asked me, What feuds do the Chonobi find themselves in, and how do you deal with them?"

"That is good. Would be terribly frustrating to deal with a populace that is too stuck with isolation and the possible bliss it could provide." Kiyomi reacted, at first. She wondered for a moment how that would be. A life where you were forced by the clan's laws to adhere to isolation. She couldn't imagine how that felt. Or perhaps, didn't want to? The question of Chu made Kiyomi snicker for a second. "Oeh, there is a long list. Regarding feuds within the Chonobi clans. Or against Taika clans. Or even clans that aren't even around anymore. So far, most were dealt with cold steel and shedding of blood. Far from civilized talks," Kiyomi began as she took a pause before she continued.
"But some feuds are dealt by what is called the Thing. Odd naming in the Taika language, I imagine. It makes more sense in the Chonobi tongue, I assure you. It is an assembly of either a local noble that reigns over some land or place. But it is sometimes also organised by more prominent members of the said clan or region. Anyhow, it is where the highest social ranked person determines a solution. A sort of," the teen briefly made a vague gesture as she tried to look for the word, "Judge. Or lawspeaker. Feuds are then either settled in a manner of diplomacy. Or well, if you want to go back to the good old days. With cold steel. Ironically,"
Kiyomi smiled once more. "Cold steel seems to be the answer to so many problems in the past."

Chu shuddered at the thought of feuding with other clans. His clan had not fought in a coordinated engagement against anything but bandits, and those were far and few between and easily defeated. He could only imagine the bloodshed and carnage of two large clans feuding against one another could cause. "It is, perhaps, the most unfortunate part of committing oneself to a particular cause or faction, the tendency to come into conflict with others grows exponentially with such a commitment." Chu was curious to know more about this "Thing" that Kiyomi spoke of. "How did the "Thing" come about in the Chonobi clan? I am curious. Certainly you did not always organize such a formal assembly to settle disputes." Truly Chu was. The hearings put on at the Omari compound were always brief and quick, no more than an hour long. They were not uncommon either. Given that the elders had little to do in the compound aside from wait and pass on wisdom, a hearing in the Omari Compound could be held at a moments notice. All it required was the pair involved in the dispute and at least five elders.

"I fear that the commitment for many isn't a desire or choice. Some might have that luxury but loyalty is greatly valued in the eastern parts. I imagine everywhere actually. For the most eastern regions, it is considered vital. Then, it also might depend on the cause for the feud or conflict. So special or different, it might not entirely be." Kiyomi said. There was a brief second of surprise when Chu actually asked about the Thing. She hadn't imagined that he would return a question.
"How it come about? I don't have the answer to that. It is something that exists for centuries. Perhaps even before the migration that occurred so long ago. I don't know if there are other ways how feuds are settled. Other than participating parties reconciling through arranged marriages, treaties or just the feud cooling down."
For a moment, Kiyomi frowned as she tried to figure out a better answer. It would be most interesting to delve further, at a later time and different place, on how the Thing had become a legatisive manner to settle disputes. "All I can say more is that they do often inquire a matter of religion. Time, day and month can be quite decisive. Outside that parties are then able to partake when the Thing is being held."

Chu was surprised at Kiyomi's answer. All members of the Omari clan were required to learn the history, laws, and practices of the clan once they were old enough. Even new adult members brought in by marriage were required to know. It was how it had always been in the Omari. Barring that, if they did not know the answer to a question, the clan kept a large written archive of all the history, laws, and practices that the Omari were involved with, and the answer could be easily looked up. As Clan head Chu knew almost all of it, aside from non-important details. He did suppose it would make sense if Kiyomi did not know all of the history of her clan's practices, given that her clan was significantly larger. "Does your clan keep an archive of their history? I would be most interested to read some of it one day." Chu privately had a goal to add the records of other clans to the archive of the Omari Clan. Information was valuable and he wanted his entire clan to have access to it.

"Yes. The only problem exists that there are multiple archives. And after a few centuries, some papers and literary sources might get lost. Or damaged. I would be highly amazed if one of those archives have anything that is from before the Chonobi migration, more than a thousand years ago." The tone of the monarch made it clear that she was quite content with how the conversation was going. "If you would be interested, Lord Omari, I am certain that you could make a request to Lord Hon. He is quite fond of history, books and scrolls. If you would to appeal to that, I am most certain he would find it hard to resist to share some copied works. I could even do some recommendations, depending on what kind of fields you find interesting beside cultural differences."

Chu nodded appreciatively. "I will certainly have to make such a request! After being in isolation for so long, I wish to expand the Omari's archives of knowledge. Getting a hold of copied works would be an excellent step, particularly any works depicting clan and country histories. Cultural songs and stories would be another excellent addition to the archive, as well as any works that teach the spoken and written tongues of other clans and nations. If you had any suggestions along those lines, I would appreciate it greatly. It is a shame that any history that goes back centuries would be lost to time." Chu's eyes shone with curiosity. He wanted to know much about other clans, and he had just been presented with an excellent opportunity to do so, and indeed he meant to take it.

She nodded. Remembering how fond she used to be about history of clans and countries, before she had to study them day in and out, Kiyomi flashed a smile. The fact that Chu even seemed genuine was a pleasant surprise on top of that. She couldn't detect anything that hinted that he had another motive with trying to learn more about different clans or cultures than that of his own. "I can recommend several works of Ingvar Hon. He wrote the work that is called 'A lifetime of Bloody War'. Depicting many events and strategies as tactics employed during the Tokugawa conquest by participating parties. If you like to read something that isn't militaristic, there are various written down sagas of various heroes or legends. I am not entirely sure what kind of religion your people or clan follow but we have plenty about our gods and such."
For a second, Kiyomi considered if she should tell him that he could also learn some deal about how some Chonobi compose their songs. But she considered that to be too much. Likely the Lord of the Omari wasn't used to such festivities.
"I will have a servant note down the exact titles of works that I found most interesting to read and learn from. Though, will you stay for a day or so in the city? Or are you planning to travel back to the Rain province tomorrow? I do imagine that traveling for almost a month did make you eager to get some rest, correct?"

Chu chuckled a little more at Kiyomi's words. The Empress's eagerness to share information was refreshing, and the suggestions she made sounded like good reading. "I appreciate the recommendations, I'm certain I will enjoy reading them. Any works on religion would be welcome as well." Chu contemplated the question posed by the Empress. She was right of course, Chu had no wish to immediately leave the city. Besides, he had already taken the leave, he might as well enjoy it. It would serve him well in the long run as well, given that he would be able to get a hold of some information on other clans, and the history of the Empire in general. Plus he did not wish to being his journey home immediately. "Yes, of course. I'll be in the city still tomorrow. I was planning to rest before the return trip."

"Splendid! You must consider the weather and season. The snow can become quite thick. Sticking to the main road is a must. No telling how stuck you might get or even lost." Kiyomi slightly shook her head as she waved with her left hand, as if being stuck in an unknown region was a mere trivial issue.
"I could else suggest some other clans. There are quite some intriguing clans of the Fire province that you might find fascinating. Such as the Tokugawa. Or the Senju. The Hanta are also quite different and might prove to be intriguing to read about."

Chu nodded out of respect to Kiyomi "Of course. I appreciate your concern. However I doubt the return trip will prove to be very difficult. It was simply myself and a few of my fellow clan members on horseback, no wagons or large amounts of luggage to carry. I don't think we will need to worry too much about getting stuck." When talks turned to other clans however, Chu's tone grew slightly hesitant. "I believe that would be an excellent idea. I have heard much about their reputation while taking up quarters in Amegakure, but I have not had the opportunity to glean much information about them"

Quick to pick up the shift of Chu's tone, Kiyomi nodded and didn't act any way different. "I understand. Which might have contributed to what happened at the previous meeting. I can assure you, I doubt that you can go too much wrong. If anything, I could perhaps sway some people from considering to perceive mistakes as slights. Granted, that you owe me a favour or two."

Chu nodded his affirmation, a sheepish smile dawning his face at the memory. "Yes well, in that particular instance ignorance did not prove to be bliss. I would be happy to take your offer of course Empress. I have no wish to create slights were there were none through any blunders I may have made in that particular meeting. I appreciate the understanding." Chu rubbed the side of his glass thoughtfully as they continued to speak. "I still have much to learn about this dangerous world of clan politics." Chu had no fears about admitting the fact. Afterall, Kiyomi definitely already knew it.

"In all due time, you will know it like the pocket of your jacket. I am certain," Kiyomi replied, in a friendly tone. "Sometimes it takes just a bit of trial and error to understand. Luckily, most of the older generation will be easy to coerce that it is your young age. Else, just leave it to me. In return, you can later do me a favour. Nothing too grand though," The empress flashed another smile as she threw a glance to their right. "I do think I should let you try to approach somebody else. Seems some of the interesting parties aren't meddling with another prominent member. If you want," Kiyomi turned her attention back to Chu."I could give you some tips. Kind of, advantage, if you would call it like that."

Chu nodded once again at Kiyomi's offer. "Of course, any tips that you could offer would be welcome. I do have a wish to speak with many of the other clan heads, outside of the meeting, to establish some sort of connection, diplomatic or not. Guidance of that sort would be appreciated, of course, in exchange for a favor later i'd imagine. Who would it be best to start with?" Chu looked around at those members of the feast that were not entangled in conversation.

"Good! The fact that you're willing is much better than to see it as a punishment or drag. Now, let us see." Kiyomi took a sip of her drink as she would move to stand at the side of Chu. "There are the Taika clan leaders as representatives. They are a more formal lot. More used to the various formalities that are brought up between leaders of clans and diplomats. I would consider them to be an interesting as diverse bunch but might not be aligning with your preference for being direct." Kiyomi explained as she scanned the room in front of them.
"Lord Hon is a potential candidate. He is also quite forgiving when it comes to new interaction. And," she shot a sideways look at Chu, "You got a reason to approach him. The only formality is that you will have to address him by his title. Despite this being a feast, it isn't a truly informal setting we find ourselves into. Lady Cho, the wife of Lord Hon, is also a forgiving type to approach. I would perhaps throw a compliment in when you approach her. People like that, you know?"
She paused for a second. "There are the guests that aren't political leaders. I have invited a team, Konohagakure Team 4, as guests. They are somewhere over this feast. In short, try to not to stress out too much. Watch out with deals and requests. If you want to decline something, just say that you will consider it. Allows you to have some time to consider it or allowing yourself to slip away. Hmm, yeah." Nodding, Kiyomi subtly gestured for Chu to get to it. "You should be good to go. If you are in need of help, just try to click with your tongue. Three or so times. If I am around, I will see what I can do."

Chu listened, soaking in all the information and advice that Kiyomi was willing to give, particularly the bits about how to decline requests or offers. There were plenty of guests here, not all of them were emissaries from clans. He would do well to seek those individuals out as well, who knew, maybe having contact with other shinobi from different villages would help in the future. "I appreciate your help greatly. I believe I will attempt meeting with Lord Hon to begin with. Thank you very much Empress."

"You are welcome, Lord Omari. Also, don't try to drink any of the heavier beverages. Later this evening, I imagine according to local customs that there will be more singing and drinking. Usually when most formal guests are retiring to their lodgings. Anyhow," Kiyomi took a step backwards as she would perform a graceful bow in a fluid motion. "Good luck.~"

[/fieldbox]

 

[conman2163]

[fieldbox="The Omari approach the Hon, red, solid"]

A Collaboration by:
Gero and Conman!

Summary:

After speaking with the Empress, Chu is pushed to talk to Zakito Hon. The pair converse briefly, and Zakito promises to arrange for some history books to be sent to the Omari.

Spoiler

Content with how things were going, Zakito would take a position somewhat away from the bustling that was more prominent in the centre of the hall. There were several groups of people but he was content with being on his own for a short while. Taking a sip from the less strong alcoholic beverage he had managed to acquire, he considered what preparations he could make for some of his plans. Thus far, nothing that was requiring him to rush or quickly curry some favours. If anything, if no change would occur then his plans would be executed with impunity.
His right eye slowly moved his gaze, trying to spot an interesting group or pair of people. He noticed the likes of the Hanta and Uchiha leaders, Makoto and Shozo, talking. Nothing too surprising, Zakito thought to himself. Taking another sip, he wondered for a moment if he could speak to Jora Hyuzu.

Chu swished the alcohol around in his glass as he walked away from where he had been speaking with Kiyomi, her advice still echoing in his mind as he did so. His eyes were fixed on Zakito Hon, the Lord Commander, whom the Empress had suggested Chu converse with. Chu approached Zakito, and bowed when he neared the man. "Lord Commander Hon, how are you this evening?" Chu greeted the man formally as he straightened out of his bow.

Slightly surprised, Zakito noticed who approached him. Waiting, the older leader would return the respectful bow with a small bow of his head in return. "Lord Omari," he began, "I am doing well. Certainly with everything going fine so far. I do hope that the event is to your wishes. Else, you're free to request matters. I will see what I can then do to provide." Zakito replied in return. He was curious as he hadn't imagined the young lord to partaken with the event but it was a pleasant surprise none the less.

Chu let a small smile touch his lips. "The evening is a tribute to the generosity of the Hon clan. I thank-you for the chance to participate." Chu waited for a moment before speaking again. "Actually Lord Commander Hon, I was wondering if you would mind conversing with me for a moment?" Chu finished.

The kind words kept the surprise-effect intact as Zakito would once more nod, a gesture of appreciation. "You are most welcome, Lord Omari. I hope that my halls will provide the necessary warmth and respite from the long travel of the Rain province." When the young man made a request, Zakito subtly nodded to indicate that the younger lord could speak of his request.

"I appreciate your hospitality, Lord Commander Hon. If I may, I wanted to apologize for any slights I may have made against you in any of the previous meetings. I am new to the world of politics, and I fear my inexperience may have shown in a rather embarrassing manner." Chu's cheeks burned a bit as he spoke the apology. He wished to make amends for previous errors of course, before he continued on with any other conversation.

A second of silence followed the apology of Chu. Zakito didn't reply right away as he had to consider and think back to the previous meeting. It had been then pretty clear that the young man was indeed somewhat new to the world of politics. A dangerous and weird game played by the nobility of the realm, with unspoken and written rules that could differ heavily when just one factor was in or out of play. "Ah, fret not Lord Omari. I believe you never have given me cause to be upset with you or your kin. So please, don't fret. For all what I consider, no slights were made between us." Zakito replied in a friendly tone.

A small weight was lifted off Chu as Zakito spoke. He had no need to worry. Now he could
speak about other matters with the Lord Commander. "Your compassion is generous Lord Commander Hon, thank-you. I will admit however, that this was not the primary reason I asked to speak with you." Chu said, preparing to shift the topic.

"Oh?" Zakito's right eyebrow slightly perked up as Chu mentioned that he had another reason to approach him. "I will be lying if I said that I wasn't curious to hear what your reason is, Lord Omari. Please," Zakito followed it with a small gesture, "Do continue."

Chu nodded to the man as he gestured for Chu to continue, and continue Chu did. "I was speaking with the Empress only a short few moments ago, and the topic of written works of history and culture came up. The Omari as a clan have only recently come out of isolation you see, and so our archives on worldly history are quite narrow and limited to the Rain. The Empress suggested that I speak with you about some of the works that you possessed."

He had spoken with Kiyomi? Already Zakito wondered what the conclusion of that talk could have been. When Chu spoke further, Zakito understood what the request was. "Ah, you seek knowledge? Anything particular that you're fond or looking for? I wouldn't mind to share some works and knowledge with the Omari. Granted," a polite smile crossed the man's lips, "That it won't be used for any ill-gains."

Chu nodded in assent of the condition. "You have my word. I only seek to expand my clan's worldly knowledge." Chu replied, the thought of what exactly he wanted his clan to learn about crossing his mind as he did so. "I am particularly interested in works related to clan histories, and the history of the Empire."

"Very well. I can offer some works that can shed some light on the history and happenings of various large clans. As for the Empire? The history of the realm is not that long. Not surprising with it just being a year old." Zakito couldn't help but smile a bit as he tried to think of how he could organise it. "If it is no problem, I will have some works delivered to the lodging you're staying tomorrow. May I ask how you are traveling? On horseback or by wagon? Else I might need to see if I can't arrange something else."

Chu nodded. "It seems that perhaps there was a slight misunderstanding. The Empire may be only a year old, however I know that before that there was a country that was its predecessor, although much smaller. I am curious in not just the current history of the Empire, but the various circumstances leading up to its formation." Chu said, replying to the first of Zakito's words. "As for how I am traveling, unfortunately I am travelling by horseback. However, I can arrange for a small group of my kin to return and collect the documents. If it is a single work of course, or even a couple that you might have delivered, those may be easily transported safely along with my belongings."

"The Fire Union?" Zakito remembered when that had been founded. He wondered if the world would ever come to the realisation of who had created and given shape to that idea. But the world was better of believing that Hisoka Uchiha was the Fourth Hokage and creator of both the Union and dawn of the Empire. "I can arrange those works without a problem. It will be a small pile, so it will be best if we arrange the transport in a different way. Storing them in saddlebags might not be the best way to keep important books undamaged for a long journey. I won't mind to arrange the necessities to see to it that the books are brought towards your clan. See it as a gift."

Chu's eyes narrowed slightly, almost imperceptibly so. Gifts were a dangerous thing, even his relatively isolated clan life had taught him that. If they were simply friends conversing, Chu might not have thought twice about it. However, it was a relatively small gift to be receiving, and Chu did not wish to insult the man by insisting he make the arrangements himself. "I gratefully your generous offer, it is very kind of you to give such a gift."

"You are welcome, Lord Omari. I am happy to help you with such a small but noble undertaking. I do hope that the literature will provide the knowledge you seek." Zakito replied, subtly nodding towards the younger man. "Is there anything else you would like to converse with me?"

Chu shook his head. "No lord Hon, I believe that was all I needed to speak to you with. Unless you have something that came to mind that you needed to speak to me about, I will take my leave and return to the celebration." Chu replied in turn.

"Please, enjoy." Flashing a smile, Zakito would nod once more before he would go on his own way. He still was a tad surprised by the Omari's interest in history but that was likely because many young leaders weren't that interested in such subjects. A good trait, Zakito thought to himself.

[/fieldbox]

 

[conman2163]

[fieldbox="The Omari approach the Cho, red, solid"]

A Collaboration by:
Lesli and Conman!

Summary:

After his conversation with the Hon leader, Chu decides to forward his own agenda and source a new set of equipment for his troops. This leads him to speak with Aiko Cho. After some conversing, a deal is struck between the two.

Spoiler

Chu swished the still half-full glass of alcohol around as he looked around for the next clan leader to speak with. He had secured the history books he wanted for his clan, a secondary matter to one far more important, securing arms for the clan levies. A reason to approach one of the clan leaders formed in his mind. The Omari troops, small in number as they were, were not properly equipped with any sort of decent weapon. Spears were of poor quality, shields and armor even worse. The only equipment that was any good in terms of quality were the swords and armor of the clan families. His next goal was to make contact with the leader of the Cho, they held sway over the weapons trade in the empire, and it would be best to negotiate with them. His next goal following would be, secondarily, to see if he could negotiate an informal or formal agreement. Chu vaguely remembered what the clan leader looked like, and so busied himself looking around for them quietly, taking a sip of the glass he held as he did so.

Taking a sip of her drink, Aiko took a moment to separate herself from the busier centre of the hall. She had a few people that she wanted to speak to, but there was no rush for that. After all, she did enjoy the festive atmosphere. It was a welcome change from the long trek that she and her team had taken from Amegakure, even despite they had managed to recover a week or so already from arriving into the city. Noticing a spot near the open doors, that led outside, Aiko saw that there were not many people standing there. Most likely due to the evening cold. Deciding to take up a position there, Aiko would hold a glass with both hands as she viewed the activities in front of her.

Chu spotted Aiko Cho as she moved to the doors, viewing the activities with her own glass in hand. Chu made his way through the hall away from the area he had spoken with Zakito at, moving towards where Aiko was standing and viewing things. He stopped several feet away from her, keeping an appropriate distance as he bowed to her. "Lady Cho, I hope the evening has found you well?" He said, his tone warm, but the greeting slightly rehearsed after repeating it in different ways three times now.

Eyeing the young man who approached her, Aiko returned the bow with a smile. "Most certainly. Good drinks, company and some music. If only every evening could be like this." Aiko politely replied as she tried to remember who spoke to her. Recognising the young man from the clan meeting, she continued. "I hope you are enjoying yourself as well, Lord Omari."

"Indeed." Chu said, nodding in agreement. "I have. It is not often that I get to attend celebrations. My time in the shinobi corps occupies much of my life, and what is left is consumed by clan matters. Little time is often left for me to enjoy myself. Though, I will admit I have been taking care of other matters as well during the celebration. Certain tasks must be attended to for the sake of my clan after all." Chu said.

"Heh, I know all too well how much time the shinobi career can take." Aiko replied at first. She was slightly curious to what he meant with taking care of other matters. She had no extensive knowledge over the Omari. Other than that they were from the Rain province. "I hope that you have gained some success with your tasks. Or will have." The woman politely added.

Chu nodded a sympathetic smile touching his lips. "It would seem the pleasantries of a quiet life happen to have evaded us both then. As it were, I will say that they have been mostly successful." Indeed they had. His talks with Zakito Hon had gone quite well, as had his conversation with the Empress. "It was actually one of the matters I must deal with that is the reason that I must speak with you, I'm afraid."

"You are?" Aiko asked, slightly amused as how he put it. "I certainly don't hope that you're truly afraid. I promise that I won't growl or lash out. Please," she subtly gestured that he had her attention. "I am all ears."

Chu chuckled lightly. "Only an expression fortunately." His look turned serious as he turned to business. "The Omari have only recently come out of isolation, and I fear our choice has not been kind to us. To be blunt, we need weapons for our troops. We could produce them ourselves, but it is not our lot to be weaponsmiths in a degree that would produce more than a few weapons weekly. I am told that the Cho have hold on the weapons trade however." Chu was quite blunt about what he needed.

"Just joking, I know," Aiko said as she would nod. Listening better as Chu would state what he wanted to discuss, Aiko would drop the amused tone and expression. She considered briefly some factors. "We do. I could arrange a profitable agreement with you and even a few weapons as gift but also to cement to your clan that the Cho indeed have a good control on the weapons and armour trade, within the Empire." Aiko paused for a moment. "Of course, such an agreement will require something from your clan as the Omari aren't exactly allies. Neither enemies but charity isn't something me nor my clan could apply in such a fashion."
"Of course, I would not expect anything less. As for compensation, my clan can provide coin, if that is what you wish, unless rice or cattle strikes your fancy, though somehow I doubt it would." Chu replied, putting out what the Omari had to offer. "Unless of course you had something other in mind." Chu couldn't help but feel all of his talks so far were going quite well. If this one went well, he would be able to confidently go into the next one.

"Coin would suffice. I am certain that your goods are of excellent quality but coin would be more versatile to continue other trades and supporting other projects of my clan." Aiko replied. "The quantity, however, is what I am wondering about. Around how many men do you wish to provide with decent weapons and armour? Not to mention, there is a large variety of weapons and armour. Though, I imagine that something Taika would suit your needs best, no?"

"I actually am interested in contracting some custom equipment, based off earlier designs. It would not be anything too fancy, and the Omari could provide the blueprints for the work, I of course have a few examples with me that you could look at. I need equipment for a thousand men, and I am willing to provide a premium if it can be produced, after all it is custom equipment." Chu said, his tone more formal than it was before.

"Hm," Aiko considered it. "Custom equipment will drive the price slightly up. Then again, the quantity wouldn't be so much that it will be noticeable in the price. I can assure you that much already." The Cho said in a most casual tone. "If you could provide the blueprints, I will see what can be arranged. The question that stands now is how much you want to invest into the quality. Obviously, no scraps will be sold. It will look bad on my clan's trade to sell cheap trinkets that break after one day. But it is up to you how far you want to go with the price and quality."

"Well," Chu said as he considered the question, then reached a conclusion. "I will want all of the equipment to be good quality, I am not concerned with the cost it will take to produce, that is something I am more than willing to spare plenty of coin to ensure that the quality is better than average. I do not forsee our clan making any large purchases of equipment like this in the future, so I want to ensure that it will last."

"Very well. I will soon enough send you the costs for the producing as transporting the equipment. If costs are no problem then I doubt that they will be much of an issue." Aiko slightly raised her glass as a smile dawned on her lips. "On future business then." She said, as a toast before taking a sip of her own drink.

Chu raised his own drink "To future business." He repeated, sipping his own drink after raising it in a toast. When he was finished, a smile of his own dawned on his lips. "These talks have been very beneficial. I appreciate your willingness to work with us, it will not be soon forgotten. I must take my leave, there are other areas of my clan that must be improved. I hope your night continues to go well." Chu bowed to the woman.

"I am glad to hear so. We will stay in touch, Lord Omari," Aiko replied as she gave a small bow in return. "I hope you will find success in your future dealings with others as well. Not to mention, enjoy your evening in the meanwhile." The woman flashed a friendly smile as she would nodded to the young man.

"Thank you, I hope you do as well. Have a good evening." Chu flashed a smile to the woman in response, then turned and left, making his way back into the crowd.

[/fieldbox]

 

[conman2163]

[fieldbox="The Omari approach the Sarutobi, red, solid"]

A Collaboration by:
Alice and Conman!

Summary:

After striking his deal with the Cho, Chu next decides to approach the Sarutobi. His goal is to secure some military experts from them to train the newly equipped forces of the Omari Clan. He ultimately fails in his endeavor.

Spoiler

Ling held a glass with wine in his right hand. The few scars didn't do much to hinder one's perception on the facial expression of the Sarutobi. A smile gave a polite expression as the man ended a talk with another participant of the feast. No stranger to events such as these, he preferred to keep himself a bit at the back instead of heading to the active centre. It was where most exchanges, deals and agreements were made between representatives and leaders of clans. But he had his own reason to wait and see how things would go. Frankly, he was a tad surprised to see the likes of the Hanta and Uchiha leaders even walking around. But he did nothing to question it. If anything, that could portray him as a conflict-monger. Even despite the growing anger towards the two men, Ling just took a sip of his drink.

Been several times to this hall, he was more than content to eye some of the decorations. The banners that hang at the wall, the various paintings as well the few tapestries. Knowing the story of some, Ling considered for a moment who he would approach. There weren't many on his list, after all.

Chu watched the crowd, as he had finished his conversation and he was anxious to look for and complete his final task of the night. He needed to speak with the Sarutobi representative. Looking through the crowd of the feast, his glass of liquor still in hand, Chu spotted the representative. Chu made his way over, voicing his greeting to the man as he reached him. Chu gave the man a bow, nothing quite as large as the way he had bowed to the Empress, or the Leaders of the Hon or Cho, but a bow none the less. "Master Sarutobi, I hope your evening is going well." Chu said, reciting the greeting he had already repeated many times tonight.

Ling would return a similar bow back to Chu as the young lord approached him. "Evening, Lord Omari. So far, I can't complain. I hope you won't change that." Ling replied, a sliver of amusement quite present in the man's voice. "How is your evening thus going so far?" The man asked in return.

A flicker of appreciation appeared in Chu's eyes as the man returned the bow, but was almost unnoticeable. "Actually, it has been quite fruitful. I've been able to conclude several interactions with a few other clans in a mutually beneficial way. I was wondering if you might speak with me for a time, given you don't have more pressing matters to attend to of course." Chu replied.

"Oh?" Ling eyed the young lord as he said that he had concluded several interactions with the other clans. He wasn't much aware of the Omari's political standing, but so was it with all those clans in the Rain province. They seemed more or less as the shy bunch of all the Akenian clans. "Then proceed. You have my attention, Lord Omari. Though I can't promise more than that, of course."

"Your kindness is appreciated. I will cut to the chase. I was wondering if the Sarutobi might be willing to spare a small number of soldiers to serve as trainers for the Omari forces. I wish to teach my men the modern ways of conducting warfare, however few have the military experience that the great clans have. The Omari would of course compensate the men, and the Sarutobi that spared them for the time they spend away." Chu said, a respectful tone in his voice.

The request caused a moment of silence between the two. Ling took a sip of his drink as he seemed to consider the offer. "I fear that I can't." He said, letting a pause follow his words. "I am a mere representative. My abilities to round up some Sarutobi officers or soldiers to conduct what you request would be possible but for a hefty price. Not to mention that I will need to go by my contacts with the various… houses within my clan." He explained. "The Sarutobi isn't a clan that is governed by one leader or council. I sincerely do doubt the possibility that some of them might find it attractive to be hired by anybody that isn't a long time ally of theirs. We tend to be a stubborn lot, you see?" Ling flashed a polite smile. "I also don't think you're going to like the prices that might be put on the table. Or well, in any case, later. I can only make an estimate."

Chu smiled sadly at the man. " I had hoped, that it would be the first steps of something of a productive and fruitful transaction. I would not have a wish to burden you if it would take that much effort to arrange." Chu absently let his look leave the Sarutobi man and focus on other members of the feast, before returning to him. "I will not trouble you with the matter any further in that case. I shall just have to approach another clan I'm afraid."

"Mhm. Understandable." Ling replied, as he nodded. "I wish you good fortune with your goal, Lord Omari." The Sarutobi replied before he decided to leave the Omari to his own. He wondered for a second who the young man would approach but already moved on to the question of who he would approach himself. There were plenty of interesting people to engage, that was for sure.

[/fieldbox]

 

[conman2163]

[fieldbox="The Omari approach the Empress... again?, red, solid"]

A Collaboration by:
Alice and Conman!

Summary:

Having failed to strike the deal with the Sarutobi, Chu next decides to approach the Empress, who would be able to order such and arrangement. Another deal is struck between the two, and an oath of loyalty is confirmed...

Spoiler

The feast was going pretty well. Kiyomi was more than amusing herself. There was the occasional and usual intrigue. She had already engaged various people of clans, both small and prominent, that desired to seek out her favour or strike a deal. Despite her own preference to settle matters in a more direct manner, Kiyomi couldn't help but to enjoy the political games a bit. There was something exciting and satisfying to them. Being able to lay out a deal and making the other acknowledge you as the better gave the young monarch a rush. Not as much as being out in battle but it was better than nothing.

Walking around, Kiyomi did try to mark out potential targets for her curiosity. Some representatives as clan leaders didn't indulge into small talks or dealings. Which was their own choice but Kiyomi considered it as a sign of decadence. Moments as these, she wondered how more of the present people did enjoy indulging into political affairs like she did.

Chu spotted the monarch as she walked through the the crowd. Making his way through the crowd, much as he had some time before, he stepped in her path, a warm smile adorning his face. He bowed as he had before. "Empress." He greeted simply, a hint of purpose in his voice. He had determined, in after his dealing with the Sarutobi representative, that he did not wish to get tangled up in politics that might hurt the efficiency at which he might gain training for his own troops. Instead, he decided to consolidate his debts, which is why he greeted the Empress now.

Coming to a halt as Chu Omari decided to approach her, Kiyomi's eyebrows slightly raised. She slowly and lightly bowed her head as a gesture of respect. "Lord Omari," she began, "You shouldn't approach me too often, you know? People might start talking." The young woman stated, a hint of a playful smile dawning on her lips. Deciding to see what the Omari leader desired to talk or bring up, Kiyomi would remain silent.

Chu laughed wholeheartedly at the joke. A twinkle in his eye, Chu said "Forgive me, I have no wish to perpetuate such rumors." He waited a moment before moving on to what he really needed. "After speaking with the Sarutobi representative, I have come to the conclusion that it might be far better to consolidate my debts." Chu said "I would like to request some aide from the Imperial military your grace." Chu finished, leaving what he wanted to request ambiguous for the moment.

"You are forgiven, for now then." Kiyomi replied, placing her hands at her back. She listened to Chu and found herself both amused and curious when he mentioned that he had approached the Sarutobi representative. What favour could Chu have asked of Ling? But when he stated what he wanted, she didn't need to ponder long to realise why he came to her. Ling likely had either stated that the Omari wouldn't get much help from the Sarutobi or that he wasn't able to promise anything like that.
"You want to request aide from my military? My," Kiyomi tilted her head to the light as she placed a hand on her chest. "I must say that I am curious. And I have to state that military affairs are something I am more familiar with. Please, Lord Omari, do continue."

A smile touched Chu's face and he raised an eyebrow. "Well I am glad you are far more open to listening to my proposals then others." He said, a hint of humor in his voice, despite the serious matter he was ready to speak on. "I would like to request that the Imperial military spare some troops to train the Omari in the ways of modern war." Chu said seriously, the humor dropping from his voice.
"I am always open to listen to interesting proposals. I can't, however, promise more than that." Kiyomi replied, at first. She placed her right hand once more at her back. When Chu stated his request, Kiyomi was visibly pondering about the request. "I reckon that you tried to request the same of the Sarutobi, judging from your earlier words. I already could have told you that Ling couldn't offer what you are seeking. But I reckon that I could spare a few officers to help you straighten up the Omari forces. The only question is," the playful tone started to fade away. "How much is it worth to you and your clan?"

Chu considered the proposition before him for a moment. "Aside from gold?" The Omari leader asked, "The Omari do have quite a collection of older weapons, they have been in storage for a long time. Nothing that I would outfit my troops with mind you, but they are relics of a long past era. Perhaps that might interest you?"

"Yes. Gold is most useful but I prefer silver, if we are talking jewellry." Kiyomi said, once more a twinge of amusement returning to her voice. She pondered on when Chu brought up relics. "I would be more interested yes. Though, what kind of weapons? Any notable that belonged to a great Omari warrior? I find that most relics have a fascinating history." Kiyomi further added to her answer.

Chu thought back to his own blade, one carried by his own grandfather, and indeed, every Omari leader before him. There was of course, other weapons like it, but none so storied. "There are several. The one you would likely be most interested in I would be loath to relinquish. I carry it myself. Besides that though, there are of course the weapons carried by those in the clan who fought to establish the Omari clan grounds permanently. Much blood was spilled with them in battle. Some swords, some pole-arms, I can think of a hammer and shield that belonged to one of our more eccentric warriors. There has been many over the years, though fewer now that we have lived in peace for a long time." Chu replied.

"Ah," Kiyomi thought about Chu's words for a moment. "But you wouldn't be keen to sacrifice such a relic in favour to see your clan becoming more powerful? I reckon that you would become more prestigious among your peers in the Rain if the Omari enjoy a stronger military. Something that many Rain clans can't boast, can they now?" The Empress asked, her tone slightly honeyed.

Chu's expression turned hard for a moment, then softened, an idea creeping into his head. "The blade you would ask for is a sword that has been handed down for generations, from father to son, to every clan leader who has lead before me. It is an embodiment of the Omari honor, and a blade that I am bound by oath to protect, it cannot leave my possession. Perhaps I could provide it to you in a way that would not dishonor myself, or my clan?"

She was honestly intrigued. Not in just acquiring the blade but to see how far she could get. In theory, Chu could hold on to his clan and family's heirlooms. But it was always interesting to see how far some leaders would go for a bit of more wealth, influence or means of power. "I would find that most interesting. Do you perhaps have a suggestion or do you desire me to lay out one for you, Lord Omari?" Kiyomi asked, the ghost of a smile growing on her lips.

Kiyomi was not the only one who had the ghost of a smile growing, Chu's own lips had returned to that shape as well. "What you would have me give to you, is something worth far more than the time of a few officers, Empress. What would such a weapon be worth to you, is the question." Chu said smoothly replying to the question with a question.

The return of the question created a moment of silence between Kiyomi and Chu. She couldn't say that she was disappointed with Chu's approach. Normally, people would already be at their breaking point. Either deciding that their honour was greater than their clan progression. Or deciding to forfeit their family's prestige and honour to strive forward. "What such a weapon is worth to me? Hmmm," Kiyomi's eyes briefly moved up as if the answer was presenting itself at the high ceiling. "I suppose that I like the idea of having some exotic weaponry. I can commission all kind of grand and amazing weapons as armour. But they lack a story. They don't have the same kind of prestige. I suppose that such a sword and heirloom will be quite nice to have. I offer some of my officers to train and discipline the Omari military as well considering to see what I can do for the Omari. After all, there is always a shortage on good officers for my armies."

Chu considered the offer, a look of contemplation crossing his face. Silently, he ran over the benefits, and the drawbacks, of such an offer. There were many benefits, and one drawback. Such a choice would mean that Chu was tied to the success of the Monarch. Her shames would be his, her failures his, and there was no taking it back. Becoming a vassal of Kiyomi would, no doubt, be risky, and there could be no mistake that this is what they were speaking about at this point. However there were worse things than becoming the vassal of one of the more powerful players in the Empire. Her gain would be indirect when it came to Chu's success, but she would still profit off of having him as a vassal. He narrowed his eyes at her for a moment. The silence between the pair as he considered the offer had been long, but he finally broke it. "I believe, given your offer, that the loss of a sword would be in the best interests of my clan." Chu concluded.

Slowly Kiyomi made a small nod. Her eyes briefly as subtly narrowed in delight. "Excellent. I will, of course, arrange the officers once I am back in Konohagakure. I hope the Omari clan can wait a week or so before the plans will go into action. The only thing that will remain is on how you intend to deliver me the heirloom. Will you come to bring it in person to the capitol?" She asked, deciding to see what Chu would say on the question.

Chu nodded in return to Kiyomi's question, though it was not a question, it was a veiled command. To force her to travel would be an insult. "I believe that it would be most appropriate if I did travel to the capitol and deliver it in person. I will have to make certain arrangements, but I doubt it would take any effort at all to do so. The question would remain when you would like me to travel to the capitol."

"I will have to prepare lodgings for you and your entourage. So I would reckon that it will be over a month or so from now. By that time, I will have arranged the proper welcome for you, Lord Omari. Which does brings me to ask, have you ever been to Konohagakure?" Kiyomi both answered as asked, genuinely curious for the answer.

Chu shook his head in response. "No I have not travelled there before. It is good, however, that it will take a bit to make the arrangements. The travel back to the compound of my clan will take some time. Your welcome to the city and offer is most generous." Chu said, a hint of formality touching his voice. "If I am honest, I have not travelled much."

"Not? Ah, not so very surprising. I reckon that your clan isn't keen to waste their good leaders to just wander about without purpose." Kiyomi replied, giving the faint compliment that was accompanied with the friendly smile. "I can even see to it that you gain a tour around the city. There are many interesting landmarks for a newcomer to visit. Though the renowned warm weather is sadly missing in the winter, I must admit to that."

Chu nodded in turn. "The compliment is appreciated, and you are quite correct. The elders of the clan see it as needlessly frivolous to travel to other cities without cause. As for a tour, I would find it thoroughly enjoyable. I am sure the capital city will look wonderful even in the winter."

"I would say that those elders then need to get some traveling themselves. Though, I suppose they are slightly right. I am not allowed to squander time with just traveling to wherever I want either. Which is a slight bummer," Kiyomi replied back as she moved her hands to her hips. "Good! I can already make some recommendations. Not to mention that several complexes have been recently finished. I have to confess that I am personally proud of some, because I had certainly some influence in their design and them being erected."

Chu shrugged. "They are just that, elders. I make my own decisions when it comes to my clan. They are there to give advice. They are wise councillors though. I look forward to touring them. It will be quite fun to see the capitol, though i'm not certain how much in the future I will get to see it, so I will have to make the tour count I suppose."

Kiyomi wondered what Chu would think of the city. She had found Amegakure different. Not in a negative way. It certainly had its charm but it was different than what she was used to. It was less vibrant in a way and yet it was also alive. "Don't worry. I will make sure that you will gain the best guides I can muster. I might even see if I can't accompany myself." Kiyomi winked as a grin cracked on her lips. "I know a lot of great places myself, after all. I doubt there is anybody else who can show you the nicest places and know the best stories about them."

Chu was amused and his face showed it. "Oh? Your presence would be welcome on the tour. Stories are most certainly what makes a tour worth while. Though I must admit, I do hope that the capitol is less dingy then Amegakure is."

"If you desire to hear my opinion, I can confirm it is less dingy, indeed. It is certainly different and sport more as diverse cultures. Not that there is anything wrong with Taika but both Yakimara and Chonobi have their charms. Certainly when you start to blend some of it together to, form something new." Kiyomi replied as she considered something. "How is the Omari lands actually? I remember that your clan has a valley. But I haven't been either much around in the region nor have read much about it." She stated, hoping to spark Chu to talk a bit about it.

Chu's eyes lit up at the question. "The Omari lands are beautiful. Lush green pastures, quiet forests filled with ancient trees, and friendly folk inhabiting the villages in it. We have been quite fortunate in our valley. A small river runs through it, sourced from a spring on one of the valley walls. It is quite the hidden eden. If you are ever in the area, I would invite you to visit the lands. The people always enjoy seeing new faces."

Listening, Kiyomi once more moved her hands to her back. She would try to memorise some of the details. "If that wouldn't be any problem, I would feel most honoured, Lord Omari. I do enjoy to visit new places. Certainly if it is so beautiful as you paint it to be." Kiyomi said as she considered it. It would certainly be more interesting than just going back to Amegakure. Besides, she did have some unfinished business in the province, so a visit to the Omari heartlands wouldn't be entirely off route. "Of course, I will try to bring a small entourage. I rather not bring too much turmoil for you clan with entering with a small army of servants and guards."

Chu laughed for the second time, wholeheartedly. "I doubt that the people of the villages would complain. A spike in business that a royal visit would bring, well, I'm certain they'd be happy to see your small army. If you give me advance notice, I will prepare the best welcome that my clan can provide, as well as lodgings for you and any others you choose to have accompany you." Chu replied.

"Very well! I will do so, most certainly, Lord Omari. Though, do please not think that I am too good for a simple bed. No need to work yourselves into too much debts for a simple visit." Kiyomi friendly answered back. "Though, may I ask another question? What is your plan now? I do believe that I saw some young women. Or is it uncommon for you people to approach young women without some conduct?"

Chu shook his head. "We Omari know how to entertain guests. Since we grow our crops with the aid of some of our unique techniques, we can and do, spend time during the day laboring over works of our own culture." Chu looked around at the other guests. "In terms of conduct, we have none. Women are seen as equals in all aspects in my clan, and so we approach them just as we would approach a young man. I don't approach them simply out of habit, why the interest?"

The question in return, why she was interested made Kiyomi snicker. "No offense, Lord Omari. But you Taika lot are such an interesting lot. You handle things different than the Yakimara and Chonobi. The idea that you approach a young woman the same as a young man is quite, unexpected. Do you gently bump their shoulder a fist and ask them how their training had been?" Kiyomi further asked, doing little to mask her amusement.

Chu was not sure how pleased he was to be lumped in with a culture that he had, up until he became clan head, never really had defined for him. He didn't let it show though, and maintained his smile. "I am unsure what it is like in other cultures, or even outside of my own valley, however approaching women can come in many different ways. It all depends on what you seek to accomplish. As I said, they are our equals and so if they are training and we are stricken with a desire to speak with them, then situationally that might be appropriate." Chu replied, genuine amusement touching his eyes as he did so.

"Huh, but what if they aren't in training? How would that go down then?" Kiyomi asked, almost a split second after Chu replied. Despite not in general interested in how other clans, cultures or people coupled together, she found it a most amusing conversation. "Is there any certain tradition or fashion on how Omari women are courted?" Kiyomi further added to her questions.

Chu shook his head in response. "No, not really. It is common for them to see each other for a while, typically a year or two, before the man and the woman decide whether or not they would like to marry. During that time they tend to simply spend time together doing things that both of them enjoy, whilst learning of one another." Omari traditions regarding marriage were quite simple in that way, though he doubted other culture's traditions were.
"Oh." Kiyomi reacted, slightly surprised. She hadn't expected it to be that simple. Certainly not with her previous experiences with some other Taika clans. "I suppose having it simple is less troublesome. Certainly seems to be more beneficial than to have a whole dance around the bush." She said, considering something. "So, is there any lucky future Lady Omari then?" The young Empress asked, a sly smile crossing her lips.

Chu shook his head again in response. "Alas, such affairs escape me. Between the shinobi corp and clan matters, I have precious little time to myself. Aside from that, the elders of my village have advised me not to marry. I fear that they may look for something more political. That is of course, my lot in life however, and a burden I am pleased to bear for my clan." He said, a slight frown marring his features

"Understandable," Kiyomi replied. "But what if the candidate in question isn't to your liking? Are you ready to sacrifice your own comfort to bring some profit to your clan?" She further asked, trying to indulge a bit more into personal areas. "Though, there is a saying. What was it again? A kettle with water can be warmed up where as one that is already warm can't turn warmer?"

"I'll admit, I am unfamiliar with the saying. However…. The Omari leader said, in a thoughtful tone. "I believe that it is the duty of a leader to do what is necessary to secure for his people a good and happy life. If it is necessary for me to sacrifice my happiness in marriage so that my clan might be bought more security, I am more then willing to do so." Chu said, finishing his reply.

She snickered, when Chu stated he was unfamiliar with the saying. When he brought up the duty of a leader, she was already considered it to be a fun topic to return to when he would have an unhappy marriage. "Though, it isn't entirely uncommon for some Taika clans to indulge with concubines. I reckon that isn't the case with the Omari?" Kiyomi asked, already readying the second question.

Chu shook his head in affirmation. "We consider concubines to be the sign of a man who cannot control his lust. It's a shameful act to take one." He replied, waiting for her next words. It would be interesting to know just what else she planned to say. So far the conversation had been…. Fun, to say the least.

"Hm, interesting. I recall that concubines are a source of pride with some other folk. Their beauty often being used to portray the man's prestige and capability. Though, I don't really see much allure in such… manners." Kiyomi said, shaking her head lightly. For a moment, she was reminded of the Kusanagi, causing her to continue the conversation instead of dwelling on the subject. "Though I want to return to the request you asked. Do you already have an idea what you want to bring to the Omari forces?" Kiyomi asked, deciding to see if Chu already had an idea to what he wanted to train his people in.

Chu reached into his pocket at his side, and pulled out several sheets of folder parchment. Carefully unfolding each one, he held them out to the monarch. On it was depicted images of various implements of soldiering, similar to mid-roman military gear, albeit less flashy, and with greaves that covered the front of the shin. "I had intended for my troops to drill in various spear formations with their shields. I also would like to train some men in archery as well."
If anything, Chu didn't seem to come unprepared, Kiyomi thought to herself when the Omari revealed various sheets. Taking one, she observed the plan. "Hm, that is possible. Seems quite close to what the Tokugawa employ. And thus not too far stretched from my Imperial military." Kiyomi said as her eyes narrowed. Training the Omari with some of her officers on how to deploy some tactics as formations with equipment like these wouldn't be a big issue. But there was something else. "Have you considered where to get the resources? The armour and weaponry as such. I can see what I can do for officers that can try train some of your folk in archery. But that is a long process."

"Fortunately yes. I managed to strike a deal earlier that will manage to provide me with the weapons and equipment needed to train these troops. It will take longer than a week of course. We have our own bows that we make however, so I have enough of those. Mock weapons and wooden equipment can be supplemented in the meantime. As for time, I am more than willing to pay the officers wages while they train my clan's forces if that is an issue." He replied.

He already managed to strike a deal? She wondered if the Omari dabbled more into the Taika Yumi bows or the more Chonobi longbows. "I do imagine that they will want to be paid for extra services. But nothing too worrisome, I can assure you that." Kiyomi replied. She considered what to make out of this. It was certainly most interesting. "I do imagine that it will be considered different but nothing too odd. After all, can't never be too well equipped or trained with being so close to the sphere of influence to the Fang country. Who usually deploy lighter geared troops. Have you any extensive military experience, by any chance Lord Omari?"

Chu chuckled at the question. "I have been employed in action with the shinobi corp, however I doubt that was what you meant. In short, no. I was trained in the very basics of commanding troops in my clan, but other then that, my clan has not had any extensive military training. That is perhaps why I am making such an effort now."

"It is indeed not what I meant." Kiyomi said, a ring of amusement going through her voice. "I see. I can recommend the War College. I imagine that the one in Amegakure is still running. Else I will need to have a talk with the higher ups of the province. In any regards," Flashing a smile, Kiyomi's eyes slightly narrowed, "I will make the arrangements on my end. We will keep in touch, Lord Omari." The young Empress would give a short but gracious bow towards the Omari.

Chu bowed in turn. "I will have to look into it. I appreciate your help once again, and I will be awaiting your contact, Empress. As I doubt we will speak again tonight, have a good evening." Chu said, then straightened, and walked away from the Empress.

[/fieldbox]

 

[Oblivion666]

[fieldbox="Dominant Trade, silver, solid"]
A collab between Lesli and Obli

Summary: A talk of business begins between the two with arguably the best trade on the east and west.

[spoili]

There were quite a number of people present. Many times did Aiko have to flash a smile and nod towards a person as she tried to make her way through the hall. It felt a bit odd to see so many 'outsiders' in the large hall. But times like these brought change and she wasn't all against it. There were only a few figures and representatives that she didn't find fitting to walk in these old and prestigious halls. Holding her opinion yet for her own, the woman soon enough caught sight of somebody who she wanted to speak with. Gracefully avoiding any talk, Aiko made her way towards the person of her interest.

"Lord Tokugawa," Aiko said as she would make a small but courteous bow towards the clan leader, "I was hoping that you would attend this evening's event." Flashing a smile, Aiko folded her hands in front of her stomach. "I hope you are still faring well after the clan meeting."

Admiring the sights around him with a smile, he couldn't help but find the place as impressive as ever. No matter how many times he would be here, it would always capture his eye. It was of different style than how his own was decorated, yet he could appreciate the places beauty.

He had been off and on talking with all sorts of representatives and leaders alike. Some small talks about trivial things, some business. Yet for the most part nothing that truly interested him enough. He had hope to speak with Lord Hon actually to inform him of the settlements that they had come to a deal about was going.

That would have to wait as the very man's wife would grace him with her visit giving him a bow, which he returned with an open palm on his chest, bowing back. "Thank you Lady Cho, I hope the same for you. I had no pressing concerns to skip out on tonight's event, I have to speak with Lord Hon anyway about the settlements progress. You were hoping for me though?"

"I am glad to hear so. Not often do we find ourselves in the graces of such a powerful lord, as yourself." Slightly turning, Aiko would gesture to their right. "I reckon you would have some matters to talk with Lord Hon. However, if you wouldn't mind me, I have indeed my own desires to speak to you. About some interesting matters." Waiting for the man, she wouldn't yet continue to make way to one of the exits of the hall, towards one of the outside areas. Where there would be less people around them.

"You honor me, however I'm only as powerful because of my people. Yet I appreciate the word Lady Cho." Leo would state as an amused smile would show on his face as she had some matters to discuss with him in a less crowded area. He had to admit his curiosity as to what an influential leader such as the Aiko would want to discuss with him. "Of course, I can always speak with Lord Hon afterwards." Leo said as he would let her lead them to the area of discussion.

Walking out of the hall, into the brisk cold, Aiko quickly eyed the amount of people outside. There were barely any that dared to leave the warm halls in exchange for the winter-cold. Eventually, turning towards Leo, Aiko held the ghost of a smile present on her lips. "This should suffice. I rather conduct some affairs without too many possible eavesdroppers. I am quite certain you are too familiar how some people can get too curious." She said, waiting for a second before continuing. "Anyways, I reckon it is of no surprise to anybody that the Tokugawa aren't without any enemies these days. Even with the Imperial laws binding us all together, preventing bloodshed, I was wondering how the Tokugawa actually fare when some fellow Taika clans are so," the woman slightly titled her head to the right as she paused, "Unfriendly."

Following outside the cold breeze was bit chilling, but it wasn't anything unbearable. Turning his attention towards Aiko, he couldn't help but agree that some people did like to try and eavesdrop on conversations between two rather well known clan leaders. As she began to talk he tilted his head slightly in a bit of confusement before he realized what she was meaning by enemies of his fellow Taika. Folding his arms behind his back he exhaled slightly. "I can't lie and say it's of no issue. Most of my trading partners are with the Chonobi and Yakimara, seems like most Taika can't forgive what the Tokugawa has done in the Warring Clan days. Although I'm sure the Chonobi know all too well what it's like for the Taika to show unfriendly behavior to them."

"I figure that the Hon are quite well known with that behaviour. Most Taika, however, don't seem to treat my clan and kin in the same way. Which is what I want to talk about." Aiko replied at first. "Currently, my clan is able to boast quite some wealth thanks to established trade between various clans. However, we don't have to play around the bush to know that the Tokugawa is getting close to accumulating the same kind of revenue. Which means that our clans would be rivals in terms of trade and commerce. Instead, we could also cooperate together. Increase our clan's income. It is, after all, much easier for the Tokugawa to reach the western reaches of the Empire. Which some parts are more influenced by the Yakimara culture. A culture, the Tokugawa are more accustomed with, no?"

It didn't surprise him too much that the Hons were one of the clans, that were disliked by the Taika. In fact both the Hons and the Tokugawa were probably the most dislike by Taika clans. Yet now with the Hon settlements being made in his land, he was improving one relationship while hurting another. Listening to her words he would find it surprising that instead of being a trade and commerce rival, she would rather work together. "We are indeed accustomed with their culture. Most of our population knows how to speak Yakimara, or at least know what is being said in the language. Yet you wish to work together in the economy instead of opposing each other? I have to say, while I have no qualms denying this. It seems like I would benefit a bit more of this partnership. After all with the Hon settlements, most of my fellow Taika have seen to cutting ties. I feel if we are to work together, you should be aware of such."

Keeping her hands folded in front of her stomach, Aiko listened to Leo's reply. Her head slightly tilted to the left while a smile started to grow on the woman's lips. "If it would make you more comfortable, I wouldn't mind some competition between our clans. But as you say, you would benefit a bit more than I would. Then again," the woman's tone remained even but there was a small noticeable pause. "Not many Taika clans have yet refused a trade contract from my clan. Or barred their markets from merchants from my clan. So your relation with some of the Taika being sour? I don't really give much about that. I feel more like that competitive struggling against one another allows other clans to grow an advantage. Which would be bad, no?"

A competition between them didn't sound like it would be enjoyable, mostly since it seemed she hasn't been treating it as such. He was certain if she were, his trade would be a bit smaller than it was today. Everything she was saying though was music to his ears. "It would be bad indeed. Wouldn't be much any of them could do to even compare to our combined trade either. Well I would be a fool to decline such a deal now wouldn't I? So I will have to accept your offer Lady Cho."

"Good. I will have some scribes make a formal treaty. About that merchants of my clan will trade at your markets as well using it as a stop for further ventures like, let us say the River province. In the same spirit, your clan can make use of my clan's markets. I will even be so kind to make certain that some knowledge my people have gathered will be shared. If I do remember it correctly, the Tokugawa are quite eager when it comes to knowledge." Aiko flashed a smile as she would extend a hand towards Leo.

"I would very much appreciate that, I will even offer the same. Whatever knowledge we have is at your disposal." Leo said with a polite smile as he would extend his own hand, shaking hers. "I look forward to this new partnership, as Im sure many others will as well." He said chuckling a bit, a bit amused that in one move a trade between two clans practically became untouchable.

Shaking his hand back before gently pulling hers back. "We can only hope. But glad that we have arranged that. I might have more interesting proposals in the near future but they can wait." Aiko said as she would make a short but graceful bow towards Leo. "I should now find somebody else. You know how it is. If two are seen talking for too long together and even outside, people might speculate something… stupid."

"Well when you wish to talk about them, you are more than welcome at Vindex. Just make sure to send word, so I can prepare properly." Leo said as she would then state she should find someone else otherwise people would begin to speculate their talk as something else. "Quite true, although that would be foolish of them to think. Then again some don't think most matters through. Well enjoy the event Lady Cho, I look forward to speaking to you again." Leo would say giving and open palm bow, before heading back inside.[/spoili][/fieldbox]

 

[Oblivion666]

[fieldbox="Business Talks, silver, solid"]
A collab between Bruhs.... Gero and Obli

Summary: Leo seeks out Zakito to update him on some matters, as well attempt to strengthen the bond between their clans. In the end both are rather surprised by the outcome of their talk.

[spoili]

After his lovely talk with Lady Cho having come to a rather lovely new deal regarding their trade, he had to say he was rather in great spirits. In fact most would call it a night there, yet he still had business to conduct and he would not leave matters unsettled. Seeking out Lord Hon was simple enough, just involved moving around others, having a small conversation here and there, yet he would arrive at the man he needed to speak with.

Presenting the man with a closed fist bow, he would offer him a smile."Good evening Lord Hon, thank you for once again inviting me into your home. I must say it's still as lovely as every other time I've been here. How are you faring tonight?"

The approach of Leo Tokugawa was responded with a closed fist bow, from Zakito.The Hon clan leader had noticed that Aiko had went outside with Leo. But what had been discussed between the two wasn't something he was interested in. Knowing what Aiko was plotting, Zakito wouldn't be surprised if the Tokugawa would agree upon it. "You are most welcome, Lord Tokugawa. I am doing rather well, thanks for asking. I hope that you are enjoying yourself as well. Same as for your lodgings. Nothing that has been a source of discomfort, I hope."

Seeing Zakito return his own bow caught him off guard a bit as he smiled at the gesture. "I quite am, it's always a pleasure to be here. Nothing I would call discomfort though, I felt right at home." Leo started with before looking around, seeing some looks from other leaders and representatives alike. "Do you have some time to discuss some things Lord Hon?"

"I am happy to hear so, Lord Tokugawa." When Leo requested some of his time, Zakito would subtly nod towards the other clan leader. "I have some time. Of what nature would this discussion be? One that you desire to have just here or more secluded?" Zakito asked, not in Taika or Chonobi but in Yakimara.

A bit surprised when he spoke in Yakimara, not enough to cause him to be in shock though. He just had to think a bit on if this should be a secluded talk. "Hmm well most already know about it, so we can discuss it here." Leo would begin with.

"I first wanted to inform you of the settlements that your people are building, not sure if you are getting updates often on them. So far things are going rather smoothly, nothing bad has happened that I'm aware of. Second would be something my Megalodon has discussed with me, something I agree with yet wished to ask you. We know that you are providing most of the resources for these settlements, yet wouldn't it be easier if we helped as well? My clan is by no means poor, we can easily allocate a good portion of our resources to help speed things along. Possibly even help you construct these settlements?"

Zakito would nod to indicate that he was also fine to discuss matters without relocating. "I receive some reports from the settlers. Nothing that has yet raised my concern or require to invoke my own influence to keep them in line. I am, however, glad that you bring the information to me as well. I appreciate it, Lord Tokugawa." Was Zakito's reply, at first. When he heard of the suggestion, Zakito was slightly surprised as he hadn't expected the offer. "I am certain that would be most welcomed by the people, Lord Tokugawa. I and my jarls have made certain that supplies are being send to the settlements as the denizens. But it would certainly solidify the good image you have among the settlers and any Hon here by aiding the building of the sites." Pausing for a moment, Zakito would place his hands at his back. "Though that will mean that I have to request that I pay for the aid. Despite your good intention, they are still my people. So only if you would allow me to lend some financial support."

"I would say this would be done out of our friendship, yet I have the feeling you would still offer to pay." Leo said smiling as he pondered a bit. "I suppose in this case I would have to accept, only on one condition. We are still friends, so you won't be paying that much for the aid. However, I am a clan that prides itself on knowledge. I have a city where knowledge is the focus point, Garling. As such I have many different people of different clans who help teach there, sharing their clan's lifestyle and traditions with any who go there to learn." Leo said before clearing his throat a bit. "So I would like to ask you, if you have anyone who might be willing to teach there. Obviously not teach Chonobi, I wouldn't go that far. Yet help teach those who learn there more about the Hons."

The declaration of Leo Tokugawa of friendship made Zakito smile as he further listened to the man's word. There was briefly the consideration if the Tokugawa was trying to gain more out of it, out of self-interest. Staying silent for a second, Zakito would reply in return to Leo. "Fair enough. I can round up such people who would be interested. It might take some time but I will make sure that you'll have capable people that can fulfill your request, Lord Tokugawa." The Hon wondered for a moment about something. "Is there anything you would like to see in specific? I must admit that the culture and traditions of my people are considered less refined than that of most Taika clans and such."

"I'd honestly like to know whatever I could. Everyone's culture is different in its own way, yet despite this difference some learn to accept it while others choose to hate what they don't understand. I wish I could say my clan isn't like that, but I can't lie. Most approve of the Hon settlements being built, while some don't. I simply wish to offer those that are willing to learn about these cultures, from those who live them and love them. Give them an up close learning experience you could say."

Pausing for a moment he would briefly switch to Yakimara. "I wish to help my fellow Taika understand something more instead of shaming it. More so the Chonobi. I'm not blind to the actions my fellows have done, yet I'm in the same boat rather. This is just an attempt to try and help quell those tensions. An attempt to try and make us all coexist more."

"I wish more were this eager to learn, Lord Tokugawa. I will see to it that some capable Hons will be gathered. I believe that there are several will be quite willing to lend their services for coin and the Tokugawa clan reputation is quite good among my kin." Zakito answered. There was some curiosity of Zakito to what the other Taika clans would think of the increased cooperation between the Hon and Tokugawa. But in all honesty, he couldn't put himself too much to care about what the other clans would think. "If it would interest you, I can see what I can do to arrange a tutor to teach you and others at your court in Chonobi."

"Well hopefully some will see it in a positive aspect and not a negative one. Knowledge is a powerful thing, some could say it's more deadly than the sword after all." Hearing that he could try to have someone tutor him and his court in Chonobi caused him to smile. "You know I have to admit when you listen to your guard speak in it, you learn from the tone of their voice which word they are saying in both languages. Granted those words I cannot repeat. Yet if you would be fine with it, I would very much like to learn."

"It would only provide easier cooperation between you and my people who have settled on your land. Besides, you have proven yourself as a friend and ally of my clan." Zakito said as he nodded. "Though don't please tell my kin that the book is more deadly than cold steel. I prefer my warriors to keep holding a blade in hand than attempting to use a book." The man further said, a grin appearing on his lips.

A chuckle escaped him at what Zakito said about wanting his people to refrain from using a book. "Trust me, I have heard the Agnarr sing their songs. I rather keep the steel in their hand than the book as well. Last thing I need is Mikoto trying to enter the world of politics." he had to refrain from laughing as Mikoto would most likely get frustrated at these political events, opting to keep drinking until she couldn't understand anyone anymore.

Being quite known with the Agnarr and that their reputation was close to the truth, Zakito couldn't really imagine an Agnarr wielding anything but cold steel. Their songs were, however, quite amusing. "I imagine. The prospect of Agnarr using literature to become poets? I am not certain how I would feel about that." Zakito commented, unable to resist a chuckle escaping him. "Though I think I am going to fetch myself something to drink. May we talk later this evening or in the near future, Lord Tokugawa."

"Oh trust me, you wind up seeing such when one of them gets drunk enough. Yet I took up too much of your time. I look forward to talking with you later Lord Hon." Leo would state giving the man a closed fist bow, before leaving him so he could get himself a drink.[/spoili][/fieldbox]

 

[conman2163]

[fieldbox="Diplomacy with the Sueno, red, solid"]

A Collaboration by:
Gero and Conman!

Summary:

The Omari meet yet another clan that they intend to bring into the fold. The diplomacy does not all go as planned though.

Spoiler

A rider, dressed in the tunic of an Omari diplomat and bearing a sword at his side, rode hard into the lands of the Sueno. At his hip he wore a satchel, inside were the tidings from the Uyeno, Maeno, and Teshima. It had been little over a week since the expansion of the Omari, and this mission was diplomatic in nature. No one accompanied the Omari rider. In fact, the diplomat bore no visible weapons. Within several hours the rider arrived at the Clan compound of the Sueno. He halted in front of the gate, and looked to the guard there. "The Omari would have an audience with Lord Sueno."

The guards at the gate cast an almost lazy glance at the Omari rider. None of them seemed eager to announce that the Omari had send a rider. But eventually, one of the guards would walk away in a calm pace. The other guards threw a curious but still apathetic look at the Omari. Their gear wasn't of great quality but there was still a visible discipline on how they held their weapons. As time passed, a few guards in somewhat better equipment showed up at the gate. One of them beckoned the Omari to move in. Announcing that they would escort the rider to their lord, the man further stated that the Omari best not cause trouble if he truly wanted an audience with their lord.

The rider let his eyes bore into the man who said not to cause any trouble, not saying anything but staring until the man shifted uncomfortably under his gaze. After the long silence, the Omari dismounted from the horse. "I presume one of you will take care of my horse while I speak with your lord?" He would hand the reins to the first guard that would take them. That done, he followed the leader of the guards, saying nothing.

The guard of before narrowed his eyes. Sneering to one of the guards at the gate, who scurried to get the horse and bring it to the nearby stables, the Omari would be guided to the manor of the clan lord. The walk was brisk and thus short. Once lead into the lavish manor, the Omari would be requested to wait briefly. Eventually, a servant would request the Omari rider to come with him. Leading him to a spacious room, where several guards had taken a position, a middle aged man sat at a table.
Sitting on a pillow, at the low table, the man shot a look at the rider.
"I must say, I was quite surprised to hear that the Omari send a rider to my clan. To what do I have to owe them this pleasure?" The man, that was the clan leader of the Sueno, asked.

The diplomat bowed to the lord as he entered, remaining silent as the man spoke. "My apologies Lord Sueno for such short notice, however it was the wish of Lord Omari that we speak to you as soon as the agreements with the Lords of a few other clans were formalized." He drew a scroll from his satchel, and held the item out for the man to take. In it was the same agreement four other clans had already decided to take. "Lord Sueno, for a while now the clans of the Rain have been splintered apart, for the most part isolating ourselves from the world. We tend to our own matters, not speaking to any outsiders, and yet, our children leave the clans to find lives elsewhere. We have lost our way. We have honor, but no glory, we lack a reason to be proud. We have fallen behind others in many places. Our wealth has diminished, we are stagnant in technology, and our militaries are weak." The rider paused for a moment before continuing. "Lord Omari seeks to correct this, he is carving out a new path for the clans of the Rain province. A path that the Uyeno, Teshima, Maeno, and Ogami have all decided to join. He offers increased wealth, a return to glory, modernization of industry, and increased security. To the west we are threatened by the Fang country. Who will stop the Fang when the armies of the Empire are slow to mobilize? We are a buffer state to the empire, something that can be sacrificed while they prepare their armies. No. We must stand strong, united under one banner, to protect the lands that our ancestors fought, bled, and died to protect. The Omari ask you to join us, Lord Sueno, and swear fealty to Lord Omari. In return, we will increase your influence, your wealth, and your people's prosperity."

Lord Sueno remained silent as the Omari diplomat spoke. His eyebrows slightly perked up when the diplomat spoke of the other clans. But he didn't say or do anything to interrupt the diplomat. Letting the diplomat state the painful state that most, if not all, Rain clans were in, Lord Sueno slightly leaned forward.
"So, you are telling me that your lord knows how to improve our situation? May I ask, how experienced is your lord with my clan? Cause right now, I hear a lot of good promises. But I want to see proof. Evidence. Something I can show my people first before I will lower my head to somebody who isn't above me." The words were perhaps harsh but the leader of the Sueno spoke them with a calm and yet polite tone. "If your clan and lord are able to convince me, he will find a loyal friend in me."

"Perhaps Lord," The man said "We might provide you proof of our intentions instead? An investment in your lands? Coin is easy enough to give and can be used for such purposes, and I come bearing the authority to give it to our friends. I also come bearing the ability to negotiate. Additionally," The diplomat drew out additional scrolls in front of the man, giving him the plans the Omari had for improving the lands they lived in. "These are some of our plans. They will be instituted two months from now."

No attempt was made by Lord Sueno to reach out to the scrolls. His gaze remained locked on the Omari. "If each clan was given coin, then you will not be surprised that I am quite frankly wondering why the Omari didn't do this before. But, I won't speak of the past now. I won't accept just some coin to be impressed. If you want to win my trust, then I want workforces to enact these plans. I have my pride and by accepting what is feeling like a bribe, is squandering my honour and pride. I want a group of workforces that will help to invest hard working effort into the land of my people. If the Omari can do this and the results are to my satisfaction, I will consider the plans of your lord."

The man stroked his chin for a moment. "Very well, we will dispatch the workers, however you must agree to make your decision before a month and a half from now. We cannot simply let our workers provide free labor for lands that will not join us in fellowship. If by the end of the month and the half you are not satisfied, then they will return to us." He finished, then gazed at the man.

"Hmm, reasonable. You will get my word by then." The clan lord replied. He still hadn't touched the scrolls, his eyes set on the Omari diplomat. "I extend some lodging and refreshment to you before you return to your lord." The man said as he would lean back in his seat.

The man bowed before the Lord. "You are generous and kind Lord, I will gratefully accept the lodging and refreshment."

[/fieldbox]

 

[Nim]

[fieldbox=Sharing the News, limegreen]
At Magnhild's Feast, Empire of Akino.
Empress Kiyomi Homura and Lord Gakuro Senju

A short collab between Empress Alice and Lord Nim

Summary:
Gakuro Senju approaches Kiyomi to give her what he considers to be good news and also a happy announcement. They share a toast and then go their separate way.

[spoili]
Seeing the Empress speak to a few other guests, Gakuro felt it was only polite to wait for them to be done first before approaching her. He did not wish to eavesdrop on any big plans or any private topics, be it by accident or not. It took a few minutes before he finally spotted a chance and approached Kiyomi "Good evening, your majesty. I was hoping we could have a chance to talk." He said as he also gave a polite bow and smile towards Kiyomi.

Just as she was finished with another talk, Kiyomi wasn't surprised when somebody else approached her. Flashing a polite smile and returning the respect with a nod of her head, she listened to what the Senju had to say. "I am free now," she replied, folding her hands in front of her stomach as she awaited what the Senju had to say.

"So I see. I have a couple of things that I wished to share with you. The first is one that brings a lot of joy to my heart. In recent months, I have brought back the full attention of the Senju to the clan's settlements. While they have been neglected for the past few decades, I am pleased to say that the biggest one, Mu Xin, is on its way of going back to its full former glory. It will go back to being the proper, great city it once was, and even more." Gakuro spoke with the smile on his face slightly widening. It was very evident from his expression that this was something he was working on for some time, and he was very excited to share.

Listening to Gakuro, Kiyomi would just flash a polite smile. "That is great to hear, Lord Senju. I hope that the Senju will profit for a long time from your efforts."

"I certainly hope so as well, and not just the Senju, but the empire as well. " He said, and looked around briefly "I am certainly hoping that many great things can come from this. But for now, I am hoping for Mu Xin to serve as a home for a more simplistic ritual, and one that I hope you will so gracefully be willing to be a guest at." Gakuro said, and accepted a glass of a golden drink from a servant that came by.

"And the empire will be overjoyed with the Senju being able to contribute like the other clans have been." Kiyomi politely replied. "I assume this means that the clan tax on the Senju can be raised then? There is still a lot of improvement left in the whole of the Empire." The young monarch's left eyebrow slightly perked up. When Gakuro brought up that he wanted to invite her for a simplistic ritual Kiyomi wasn't too sure if she wanted to. She had other plans in mind when it came down for the short term planning.
"And what kind of ritual would it be, Lord Senju?"

Hearing Kiyomi's question regarding the taxes, Gakuro nodded in a response "Of course your majesty. It may slow down the progression on the full restoration of the settlements, but it will not stop the Senju. I understand that money is always needed to help around the whole of the empire." He said, and afterwards raised his glass a bit.

"I am delighted to announce that I am engaged, and that ritual I wish for you to be a guest at is none other than the wedding ritual. It is only scheduled to occur in six months time, but I could not stop myself from wanting to announce to all, beginning with you. Even though there is no direct blood connection between us, we did have someone in common to look up to." Gakuro said and looked at the glass for a moment.

"I am happy for you, Lord Senju." Was what Kiyomi first said. She quickly thought of any plans she had. There was a chance she could put in a simple wedding in. Or well, simple? She figured that it would cost time to travel and then another day or two to attend. Ignoring the last bit for obvious reasons, she flashed a smile. "May I ask who the lucky one is?"

Gakuro smiled as he listened to Kiyomi's question "Her name is Nagisa, and she is one of the daughters of the Senju council members. She is the same age as I, and while we have been matched together, I have known her for several years time, and she is quite the story teller. I feel very lucky." He said with his smile growing a bit "Would you mind if I offered we raise a toast for the future happiness of each other in our respective engagements and future marriages?" His question came with a gentle tap on the glass.

"I see. A toast then," Kiyomi noticed a servant walking at her right. Able to pick a glass, she mumbled a thanks to the servant before turning back to Gakuro. She didn't feel like making the toast. Certainly not with the news she had received about Hayate. But she didn't neither want to appear rude or give off that the Senju was bringing up topics that were ticking her slightly off.
"To future happiness and our marriages," she said before taking a swig of the drink. "I hope she will able to gift you with many sons, Lord Senju."

Hearing her toast, Gakuro took a swig of his drink as well. Hearing the further remark, he would offer a smile "Thank you for your kind words, your majesty." He said and then looked around "I think I shall go now and let the next person in line approach you. I'm certain I have seen several eyes that were looking towards us." He added as he turned back to look at Kiyomi.

"You are most welcome, Lord Senju. I hope you will enjoy the feast." Once more, Kiyomi raised her glass towards the man as she flashed yet another smile. "Enjoy."

Returning the smile, Gakuro would offer a polite bow once more. After rising, he would walk away, feeling the evening was certainly improving.
[/spoili][/fieldbox]

 

[Lesli]

[fieldbox=Sit down boys, violet]
The Feast at Magnhild.
A meeting between Kazumo Sarutobi, Koike Hon and Aiko Cho-Hon.

A relative long collab (around 5000 words) written by Oblivion, Gerontis and Lesli.

Summary:
Aiko learns of that Koike is at the feast. Deciding to find him, they sit down. Soon enough the two are being joined by Kazumo. The three speak of various topics, such as the current team 8 and about the eastern continent.

---

[spoili]
IIt felt slightly weird. To be back in the halls where he had grown up. Despite it being quite some years since he had been in Magnhild, he still remembered most of it. A slight twinge of guilt did become evident as he realised that Miharu would never walk these halls with him. But there was nothing that could be done about that now. A soft sigh escaped the young man as he brought up his right hand to his neck. The outfit that he wore was comfortable. And he did appreciate the style somewhat. Even though he had to get used to the cape but Kiyomi had assured him that it was stylish. Perhaps it would help him to blend in a bit easier? The thought that he was going to spend an evening at this lavish feast while the others were in the east was somewhat troubling him. Pushing the thoughts of the east to the back of his mind, Koike decided to walk to the center of the hall. A servant with drinks passed and in a fluid motion, Koike managed to grasp one of the drink of the tray. Taking a small sip, he wasn't sure what alcoholic beverage it was. It had a fruity taste to it and wasn't too strong.

There were several groups of people, all scattered over the spacious interior. He could recognise several prominent politicians, such as the leader of the Uchiha. Keeping his distance from such folk, Koike hoped that he was able to just gain some peace and stay away from politics.

The moment she had heard from Kiyomi who was around, Aiko was walking around. Her eyes scanned the place but she only saw representatives, servants, the occasional guard and other folk. For a moment, she experienced some panic. There was no telling if he was somewhere else in the large keep or at the feast. Turning around, she didn't care if anybody of importance noticed her pacing around the place. Then she saw him.

"There you are!" Managing to not shout it and keep the volume of her voice at a most reasonable level, Aiko would walk in a fast pace towards the young man. Before she knew it, she placed her hands at Koike's shoulder and scanned his face. There was no new scar or mark of an old wound. Just those he had before he had departed east. "Are you okay? How is Katsu? Are you boys doing alright? Nothing bad happened, right?"

He had spoken with Kiyomi earlier in the night, yet the whole reason he was here was because of Aiko. It would be rather rude if he didn't even try to speak with her. Yet seeking her out was a task in of itself, the one time he saw her she was chatting with Lord Tokugawa, yet after searching for a few minutes he would spot her. He almost felt defeated when he saw her speaking with someone, yet that someone looks oddly familiar. That's when it clicked and a smile was on his face, as he would walk up to both Aiko and Koike. Giving both a bow he would smile. He would catch the end of the conversation and had to admit being a bit amused at Aiko being a bit worried over him and Katsu. "Sorry to interrupt, yet I saw Koike and couldn't help but join the conversation. If thats alright."

"Hm? Oh."

Koike was a bit overwhelmed but quickly regained his calm composure as he noticed it was Aiko. Flashing a wry smile, he nodded. "I am okay. So is Katsu. And… things are going fine." He managed to answer. The pause was obvious but he didn't wish to engage much about what had occurred so far in the east. Then before he was able to ask how she was doing, Koike heard a familiar voice. Half turning, he noticed it was Kazumo who approached them. A grin appeared on Koike's lips as he would return the bow with a curt nod. "More than fine with me. I hope you have been doing well, Kazumo."

Relieved as she was, there was still some concern. The entire detail on how and why he was here was still largely unclear to her. And the small pause in his answer did little to make the worry less. But she wouldn't press on. "Glad to hear that. I hope both of you will come home soon." Aiko said as she folded her hands in front of her stomach. She eyed him more and shook her head. "Good, you still have all your limbs. All fingers---" She was about to ask but then somebody else joined them. Flashing a smile towards Kazumo, Aiko subtly gestured that he shouldn't bow. "Sure, of course, dear. Oh, he has been doing well. Managed to become chuunin even."

Nodding to Koike's question, he would be a bit embarrassed as he rubbed his head. "Yeah, although I don't feel like I'm ready for it just yet. However it's hard to tell her majesty no in front of everyone." he stated with a small chuckle as he would look back towards Koike. "Was a bit surprised when you had to leave Amegakure so suddenly. How are things faring on your end?"

Koike shot an amused look at Aiko. There was something laying on the tip of his tongue but he decided against the comment that was forming in his mind. Upon hearing that Kazumo was now a chuunin, Koike's eyebrows perked up slightly. "Oh? Congratulations. Though I am not certain if I follow. You got promoted by her Majesty?" He asked, shooting them both a curious glance. "As for Amegakure, yeah. Katsu and I did have only some window of time before we had to departure back to Konohagakure. Things are okay." He replied, the ghost of a smile briefly visible.

She genuinely was overjoyed upon hearing and seeing Koike. There were a lot of questions upon her mind and almost were rolling in a steady pace from her tongue but Aiko held herself back. "Oh, you are. A bit of pride won't harm you," Aiko told Kazumo. "After we accomplished our objective in Amegakure, there was an event. Her Majesty gave some operatives a medal as fewer even a promotion. Including Kazumo." Briefly Aiko wondered if others were about to join them. She felt the need to move the conversation to prevent that but decided against it. "So, how does the eastern continent look like?"

Kazumo would smile at Aiko telling him to have more pride about his promotion and would nod to what she said. "Yeah she came to address what was going on since a lot has been happening there. Yet it should for the most part be rather calm now. Yet thank you both." Kazumo said still not that keen on his promotion, yet he could always work to make it worth it. As Aiko asked how the eastern continent was, he had to admit some curiosity. "I'm curious as well, must be going rather well if they allowed you to come back right?"

Upon hearing how Kazumo got promoted, Koike wished that he could have attended. It sure sounded like it was fun. The questions that he got made Koike smile turn a bit wry. "It is different but I guess that is a given." He said, at first. Thinking about it for a second, he would continue. "So far I haven't gotten a real idea on the local populace. On what kind of habits, traditions and such they have. Most of the time I have spend with the battalion I lead and other detachments of the 13th brigade. Not to mention being there to help and discuss things with command-- I mean, Hayate." He was quick in correcting himself, reminding himself that he wasn't on the field or camp anymore. Thus no need to be feeling so tense.

"But so far, things are somewhat okay." He concluded before taking a sip of his drink. Still unable to place what kind of beverage it was, he decided to not spend more of an effort to guess it. "How is Neji doing? I believe he was part of the team before I left, wasn't he?"

She imagined that he wouldn't have much time to interact with the local populace. It was a military campaign to pacify the region, after all. She would nod once, upon hearing what he was up to in the east. Though the previous worry started to grow once more when he said that it was somewhat okay. There was something he wasn't telling her and she wasn't entirely sure what. "Neji is doing fine. Probably around here, much like Satia. The new member." She said. "He also got a promotion after the ordeal in Amegakure was over." Aiko thought for a split second. "So, how is the 13th? Or being a colonel? Should we call you sir now?"

Only somewhat okay? Was there an issue with one of their allied forces? Although if that was the case, he wouldn't be saying it was only somewhat okay. As he asked how Neji was doing, his look soured a bit as Aiko explained how he was doing including his promotion as well. He decided not to voice his words on this and instead focused back on that somewhat okay. "Well that's good to hear, but something is a bit of an issue? Is it the Republic? Are they not helping as much as they should?"

Neji a chuunin? He could vaguely remember how the Uchiha had performed at the entry test of the Guardians. Perhaps the Uchiha had taken some tips and experience from the test to the field? It was certainly curious but then Aiko asked about the 13th. "They are a rough bunch. But they are good folk. Know what it is to serve and how to preserve. That is for sure. And no," he chuckled, "I prefer not to bring that title in here." Then Kazumo asked him on if there was any issue. Koike's calm composure didn't falter but he had wished that the Sarutobi hadn't indulged further.

"The Republic is most helpful. There is some friction but it is something we all expected. But no sign of trouble from them, yet." Koike replied as he took a sip of his drink. He wagered if he could prolong to keep the truth from them. But Aiko knew him too well and despite everything, he did assume that Kazumo could understand the situation.
"There is the problem that we encountered a hostile force. Slightly bigger than the allied force combined but nothing too overwhelming." Koike said, even believing his own words. "I was send back on the orders of the commander to see if the Empress and Lord Commander are able to send some more supplies as reinforcements. To ensure that the region will be pacified."

She imagined. Having heard some tales about the 13th brigade and what it was composed out of, she was content that Koike as Katsu were serving with veterans of past conflicts. It was better than to hear that they were operating with troops that were still green. Kazumo did, however, ask further. Something that Aiko was happy for and yet still unhappy. Focusing her attention on Koike, she paid close attention to what he had to say to the question. Hearing that they had encountered hostility as well could use more supplies as reinforcements did cement her worries. "Hm." She threw a sideways glance at Kazumo. "I am certain that her Majesty as the Lord Commander will see to it. Else I might need to come over to the east to just set things right." The last sentence held a sliver of a joking tone in the woman's voice but her stern gaze told a different story. "Come! Let us sit somewhere. You must also tell us everything about the east. I am sure that Kazumo is most curious, if not more than me, about it."

As he said it wasn't the republic it caused him to worry a bit as to what would be a problem then. Which is when he stated that he was back to see about getting more supplies and reinforcements, as the enemy was slightly larger than their force. He rested his gaze on Koike for a bit before looking at Aiko who made what sounded like a joke, but he knew she was serious about such matters. Yet then Aiko said they should sit elsewhere so Koike could tell them everything about the east, to which a sparkle in his eye light up and he nodded. "I warn you now. I ask a lot of questions." Kazumo said giving a smirk, although he was dead serious. Questions would be asked.

Once more the wry smile adorned Koike's features. He even had to admit to himself that he felt a cold shiver down his spine upon both hearing Aiko's word and seeing the look in her eyes. Quite familiar with that look, he would just nod. Nodding to the suggestion for them to sit down, Koike gestured to a small table that was placed in the corner of the hall as there were several others. Taking a seat of his own, Koike chuckled. "Go ahead. I might not be able to answer all of them though. Most of the time I am spending time training with the troops or planning with the commanders."

The woman couldn't resist a smile from appearing on her lips, as she heard what Kazumo said. A servant with a tray walked past them. Picking two glasses, she would thank the young man before she joined at the table. Placing a glass with some crimson liquid in front of where Kazumo would take place, Aiko would continue to sit down herself. "Hmm. How is Katsu fitting in? I hope that his heritage doesn't stir up any trouble."

Sitting and taking the glass Aiko passed to him he would thank her and take a sip of the beverage. It was rather a strong flavor at that, good but strong. As Aiko asked how Katsu was doing, he would voice onto that. "The thirteenth brigade, you stated they are a rough bunch. Yet do you know where some of them come from? Like are any Sarutobi's from the Blackroot? Gwade? Any certain ways they behave? Sorry, I'm just curious about how they act and what not. I want to get a good notion of what they may be like in a scenario you are in."

"Katsu had a bit of a rough start. But he is considered a part of the brigade now. Or more so, the battalion. Nothing too rough, though." Koike quickly added the last sentence, almost feeling the need to raise his hands in a defensive manner. Then Kazumo unleashed the questions. Taking a sip of his drink as his friend went almost wild with the questions. Once Koike was certain that Kazumo was done, the former would answer. "They are from various regions of the Hon clan. But also the Sarutobi factions. We got some folk from Gwade, Edani and Aldermarsh. Fighters from the houses of Ecla, Magnhild, Rachon. We even have a full battalion of Agnarr enlisted in the brigade. They are somewhat different but good folk nonetheless. Just never try to drink with them and think you can walk away sober." Koike said, sounding amused but not meaning it as a joke. "As behaving? Everybody works rather well. They prefer to talk and communicate in Chonobi. Which Katsu is slightly picking up. Not really quick with it but he is learning." Koike threw a glance towards Aiko as he informed them about Katsu. "But they treat me with respect and consider my orders as advice rather well instead of doing just their own thing."

The mentioning of Katsu having a rough time didn't please Aiko. Taking a sip of her drink, she couldn't do anything about it though. When Koike continued, she was growing more curious about it. A brigade made up from Chonobi folk alone was something she could imagine to be an effective force. Likely much different from how the 11th would operate, despite being under her command. "Good." She just said, hearing that Katsu was learning the language. "How is contact with the Northerners? I believe that they are part of the joint-campaign, aren't they?"

All of them huh, a brigade made up of Chonobi sounded like the perfect force in terms of teamwork. Before he could ask anything else Aiko would speak up about the Northerners asking how they were operating with them. "I heard the Sanosuke are quite the proud warriors as well, is that true? If were asking about them though, what about the Republic as well? Any kind of clan from them that sticks out? "

The Northerners? Oh, he could remember them. The first battle, he wouldn't forget how the Sanosuke started to shred the enemy lines. It was both beautiful and dreadful, at the same time. An odd mixture, for sure. "I haven't personally had much contact or the pleasure to interact with the Sanosuke. Though, some of them wield a large axe. Not much different than some of our warriors would, either Hon or Sarutobi. Likely can cleave the head of a horse with one sweep, I tell you." He did enjoy it a bit, talking like this. "I do imagine that they are proud. I saw them fighting once against a hostile group. I am happy that they are on our side, I hope that says enough about them. As for the Republic? No clan has yet sprang out into attention. They are more disciplined than I imagined. But my interaction as experience with them is a bit too small to really make a statement. I hope to learn more about them. After all, best to know your enemy before he becomes your enemy. Or something like that."

"I do imagine them to be a strong folk. Those Sanosuke. Hopefully, the future interaction will be a good one. Maybe laying a few stones to build a future friendship with them." Aiko thought out loud as she would now ask a few questions herself. "Though, would you say that you lot need more troops? Or is it just as extra measure?" She started, deciding to keep her other questions in reserve for now.

So they somewhat similar huh? That was interesting to know, and Aiko said it all that maybe a future friendship will exist between them. As she asked about the extra troops, another question would pop into his head. "Adding onto that, what are the enemy like? Like weapons, armor, leaders, language. Just from what you experienced fighting them. Do they speak Taika like most people do? Are some of their weapons similar to ours? Any crafty battle tactics they've shown?"

"Not more than perhaps one or two battalions. We want to set up a temporary base of operations to be able to pacify the region. The Lightning as Republic have send troops but more are quite welcome to cover ground." Koike replied back to Aiko. Then he turned his attention towards Kazumo as the latter started to ask about the opposition. "The enemy is far away from being disciplined. Most tend to come over as brutes. Most likely the brigands and bandits have grouped together in order to drive us out. With the region in chaos, they probably don't want us to restore the peace. Their weapons are crude but not too useless. I wager that their expertise as understanding of waging battles or even war is quite inferior to our own." Koike paused for a moment.
"They speak a different tongue. It is far from either Chonobi or Taika. Not even Yakimara is getting close to it. I find it crude and odd. Not really pleasant, I can tell you that."

Hearing what enemies they were facing made Aiko's narrow slightly. It could be her wariness of how much the Zealots were involved in all the bad situations but she decided to not jump the blade just yet. "Is the resistance only composed out of ordinary fighting men?" Aiko decided to ask. She wondered if Koike was willing to talk into the deepest details but she started to think of a plan herself.

Nodding to his answer he would jot it down mentally, but if he compared it with what he said, some things didn't add up all that well. Kazumo seemed to be thinking about something to ask when Aiko asked if the resistance only had ordinary men. He knew what she was referring to but he was curious himself. Which he stayed silent this time around and looked at Koike to see what his answer would be.

"We have come to contact with some people we have dubbed as 'Red Cloaks'. But come. I will be around for tomorrow as well. Let us speak then more of it." Koike answered, giving Aiko a meaningful look before his eyes shifted to the right - to the other tables. "You have a new member of the team? How is this member? A genin? Chuunin?" He shot them both a glance, before taking emptying his glass.
Aiko subtly nodded. She understood, despite still having various questions. But if he would be able to answer them tomorrow, then that was fine with her. "Fair enough. As for Satia, well." Aiko thought for a second. Telling Koike of what she had learned of the ongoing dealings between Satia's father and Zakito was something she wouldn't do right now. This wasn't the place for it. "She is a Cho. An Asiske, to be even precise. Daughter of the thegn that rules over Tenghua." Taking a small sip of her drink, Aiko was able to deduce that it was Bloody Victory. The bitter drink wasn't bad but she prefered sweeter beverages. "She is smart and capable, for a genin. A bit of a bookworm but nothing bad. In my opinion." Throwing a sideways glance at Kazumo, a smirk grew on Aiko's lips. "I do think it would be improper to call her pretty. Maybe Kazumo can shed some light on that."

Red cloaks? The happy look with questions to be asked suddenly went a bit pale, as he thought about the visions he saw of those red cloaked people in them. Koike was hiding something, if those vision held any warrant then he was keeping some details. Yet he would change the subject and ask about Satia, who was alright in his opinion. He held no complaints about the woman, so as Aiko answered then switched targets to him and asked if he could shed light on Satia's looks. Well Kazumo paused for a moment as his face flustered up. "I uhh… I wouldn't say she was unattractive. I just… I… " Kazumo said fumbling around, knowing Aiko did this part on purpose. "I'd say she is beautiful enough if that's what's being asked. Although I never really looked at her in terms of beauty."

Listening to the answer, Koike was glad for Aiko. He had been a bit sorry for that he had dragged Katsu more or less to Team 6. Perhaps it had been better if his friend and comrade had stayed longer at Team 8. Then again, Koike couldn't think of who would have then taken Katsu's place and able to work right away in such a good fashion as they could. "Oh?" Koike turned his attention to Kazumo, who flustered. "Huh. First time that I actually heard you talking about women. Have you considered to make a move on her yet? The daughter of such a powerful thegn certainly would hold some benefits to it." He said, a grin growing.

"Perhaps you should come with us. Spend an afternoon with the team. I would truly appreciate it, before you would go." Aiko said, though she did somewhat enjoy the fact that the topic of Satia had made Kazumo fluster. "I did plan, after all, to do something relaxing with the team. And you know Magnhild much better than any of us. Please?"

As Koike continued the topic he stared at him a bit wide eyed as he shook his head. "W-wait i think you misunderstand. I dont… shes not… I'm not interested in her like that. I barely spoke to her that much anyway. And and…." Kazumo said trying to find a way out of this situation when Aiko changed the subject to his relief. Asking if he would join the team before he left. The topic change was much appreciated although he was curious now. This was the first he heard about this. "Really? Well in that case, having Koike along would be rather nice. I can tell him about how our bombs worked out."

He considered it. There was a part of him that told him to stay. He was given a leave of two days and he had just arrived in the afternoon, hadn't he? That meant that he could stay tomorrow and see where it would go. The sight of Kazumo flustered, speaking with Aiko and just being in a place that had been his home all did make it more tempting. Yet he couldn't place Saki, Hayate and Katsu as all the others out of his mind. "I will consider it. I don't want to stay too long from a campaign I was put on. Though, I wouldn't mind to spend a few hours with the team. Any specific plans? Cause I don't have an extensive wardrobe with me, sadly enough."

Snickering softly, Aiko would flash a large smile. "Good. And no need. Just don't get your current attire dirty or messy. That should more than do enough." The woman replied, not hiding her joy of the possibility of that Koike would join them tomorrow. Though, she had to consider what to do. Rounding her team up wouldn't be that hard. She had huge doubts that neither Neji or Satia would stay at the feast for too long. Kazumo? Perhaps once the singing and drinking would take place. "I am sure that both Neji and Satia would be most honoured to be in the presence of a colonel of the 13th brigade." Aiko added, a wink following.

He looked at her as if he was trying to read her mind for what she had in store but Aiko was as unpredictable as usual. He guessed it would be nice to spend the day with the team, granted he would be doing it for Aiko and maybe to ask Koike a few questions, which he probably wouldn't answer but it would be worth asking anyway. "Should I not stay out too long then? I know Ki- her majesty wanted me to stick around for the singing that would take place." Kazumo asked not wanting to be late for anything tomorrow.

Nodding, Koike had no plans to get his current outfit dirty. He liked what he had gotten and hoped that he would be able to keep it. The fabric felt comfortable and seemed of great quality. "Please though. Being a colonel isn't that high ranked. If I were a general of a brigade, perhaps." He replied. "I do hope you will stick around. When the singing and more drinking occurs. Though I imagine that most are waiting for most representatives and such folk to call it enough. Only the polite thing to do, I guess."

"I will leave that up to you. You are old and wise enough to make that decision for yourself," Aiko replied back to Kazumo. "If her Majesty did request you, then I would find it bad-mannered to refuse her. I will else let the meeting happen at a later time." She assured him further. "Though, I have to say that I won't stay for the singing. Both Kei and Akimoto are here. I do intend to later join them."

"I planned on sticking around for the singing at most. Doubt I would be able to leave even if I tried anyway." he said with a snicker as he wouldn't put it past his nice to make sure he stayed at all cost. "However I won't be drinking that much. Rather not wake up feeling like the Agnarr made me chug five drinks in a row." Kazumo said as waking up hungover didn't sound like fun if Aiko had something in store for them.

Throwing a glance at the ongoing feast, Koike wondered what drinks were being served. Perhaps some more traditional mead and ale? His attention quickly went back to Kazumo and Aiko. "Heh. I will join you in that. I prefer not to wind up with a hangover. That and I do imagine that I am a bad singer when drunk." He shook his head lightly. "Likely even sobre. Though, how are Aki and Kei doing? I wasn't aware that they were here."

"Good. Drinking is one thing but going full drunk when being invited by her Majesty? I am glad that I don't have to teach you manners." Aiko said, feigning clearly the sternness in her voice. She couldn't resist but do smile though. "The twins are doing fine. Your uncle decided that it was a grand idea to bring them here. I haven't seen them for some time and they haven't been ever to Magnhild. I might even consider to let them be educated in here. But that is a matter I need to discuss with your uncle."

He couldn't help but remember being called stupid as Koike mentioned Aki and Kei. It was something most wouldn't appreciate but at the same time, it was an amusing thought. Although it's good that the young ones are now safe. He wasn't that affiliated with the twins, so this was more a topic between Koike and Aiko.Although he couldn't resist adding in something. "So speaking of the twins. Am I still a dumb dumb for ruining their game?" Kazumo asked with an amused smile.

Koike smiled as he slightly leaned back in his seat. He had truly missed this. The stress and constant threats that they were facing in the east had made it all seem that they had left for years. Hearing that the twins were brought to Magnhild, Koike was slightly surprised as he considered to spend some time with his niece and nephew. "I see," he said as Aiko stated that she was considering to let the twin be educated in Magnhild. Then Kazumo brought up a question that made Koike snicker softly.

"You may ask that later yourself." Aiko replied, a smile appearing on her lips. She remembered when Kei had managed to sneak onto the mission towards Amegakure. Though she could find some amusement in it, she certainly hadn't been happy back then. "Though I think I will soon call it the night."

"Haha! I'd like that, after all my first talk with Kei didn't last very long." Kazumo stated before Aiko told them she may call it a night soon. "I would do the same but I'm expected to stay until a bit later. Although I would like for you to stay at least a bit longer. I'm still not very comfortable around events like this by myself."

"Then stick with me once they start," Koike suggested to Kazumo. He could understand that Aiko perhaps wanted to take a bit of a rest. Certainly after dealing with a clan meeting. "After all, I am now most curious on how well you can sing." The young man wanted to add that he was curious on how good or bad Kazumo was with holding his liqueur. But he decided against it.

The woman smiled as she would nod.
"Keep a watch on each other. I will see you both tomorrow. I am going to try to get some sleep. Remember," Aiko shot them both a look as she got up from her seat. "Don't drink too much. I expect you both in mint condition for what I have planned tomorrow."

[/spoili]
[/fieldbox]

 

[GlitchyBugger]

[fieldbox=Only a bit of bad news, darkred]

Kyoi returns to the Hyuuga compound after the mission in Hanaguro, tired and looking to relax for a while. Due to recent events it doesn't go ahead as planned.

Home time!

Music accompaniment kinda helps set the mood

Konohagakure, it felt more or less the same based on the season. Yet there was certainly something that didn't feel right despite the appropriate weather and the general sense of hustle and bustle as people passed her by, taking a moment to look at the woman who was stood there lost in her own thoughts. No one decided to disrupt her, likely wasn't worth the hassle to most of them, not when they had business of their own to attend to.
By the time she'd come back to her senses she noticed that both Karma and Kensuke were already long gone, they had their own families to go home to so it was understandable that they'd go as soon as they could.

Whatever it was that felt wrong could be dealt with later, once Kyoi had gotten some time to herself, maybe indulged in a warm bath or at the very least a foot bath. "Well, I can't just stand around at the gates all day, Miko should be home from her mission by now, for sure." She mused under her breath, using one hand to ensure her bag was firmly on her shoulder before the short walk to the Hyuuga compound began.

---

A mist was lingering, briefly clouding her destination as she approached, the air gradually feeling colder to complement the sensation of something being amiss. Of course Kyoi would shrug it off for the time being, putting it down to the mist within the village that was simply tricking her into thinking something was wrong.

Crossing the breach felt no different, it must have just been Kyoi's tiredness getting to her then... Things looked normal as far as she could see, meaning she could get right on with her intentions of having a warm, soothing bath to let herself properly rest.
"Hopefully her hand wont be too badly scarred, I know she's young and all but she should have thought about what she was doing."

"Oh don't be so heartless, he was her brother, if anyone's allowed to be a bit irrational then it's her."

The sound of two male voices caught Kyoi's ear as she was walking past a door, causing her to stumble a little as she affixed her gaze to the door itself and the chill from earlier rolled up her spine.
The sliding door was slammed open by the pint-sized kunoichi, possibly a bit too hard as the sound caused the two men cleaning the room to jump and take a couple of steps away from the door, a matter of seconds later and both parties seemed to have enough of a grasp on the sudden situation that Kyoi glanced to the door then at the two Hyuuga clansmen.

"Oh, sorry, don't know my own strength sometimes." Kyoi chimed in a somewhat disarming manner that contradicted her concerned expression, though not letting them respond as she moved onto a question. "I was passing by the door when I heard a bit of your chatter, who was it that hurt themselves? I've been away on a mission so I have no idea what's been going on at home."

It took a moment for the two Hyuuga to start composing their answers, while one of them appeared to be worried, the other took the question in stride.
"You just got back? Well maybe you should go relax first, take the weight off your shoulders for a while, right?" He would look to his counterpart, a brow raised as if to suggest that he agree. "It's not something you want to hear as soon as you get back, after all."

The other servant either chose not to take the cue or just didn't notice as he explained what his companion was trying to hide. "Your cousins, Tomiko and Hiraku. Hiraku passed away not long ago, we held the rite of tongguo for him the other day, during the pyre Tomiko shoved her hand into the fire to give him something and burnt herself in the process."

At least this explained why something felt wrong. "Is that the whole story?" To be honest Kyoi had yet to fully process what was just said, but it was slowly sinking in as she looked between the two men.

"Uh... Apparently other members of the clan reckon that Toshiro will be the new leader o- Where are you going?" By this point Kyoi was already leaving, her tiredness was starting to catch up to her and this news wasn't helping in the slightest.

"Sometimes a girl has to go and relax. You know, take the weight off my shoulders... Can you run me a bath and maybe keep quiet about me getting home? I'll go find Miko myself later." The pair quietly nodded at that, one of them moving off ahead of Kyoi to prepare said bath while the other continued his work.

A quick detour allowed Kyoi to grab a bottle she'd been keeping in her own room, taking it to the bath and letting the servant there go on his way. Alone with naught but a bottle, a bath and her own mind, Kyoi would disrobe and ease herself into the water, reclining and merely soaking in the hot water. "Of course something like this would happen whilst I'm away, not even a chance to see him off. I guess I should give Miko some time before I go see her, I can't reassure her that things are fine like this."

Time would pass by in silence, Kyoi just indulging in more than a few cups from her bottle before she gave up on drinking her trouble away, if anything it had been making her worse so any more and she'd likely turn into a blubbering mess.
It wasn't something she could allow herself to be, at this kind of time she needed to keep her chin up and support Tomiko after all, this whole ordeal hit her the hardest no doubt. A sigh escaped her as she climbed out of the water and dried off, whilst the warmth of the water remained and the alcohol dulled her senses, it didn't help her feel any better about the entire situation.

Hiraku was dead and she didn't get to see him off, being away on a mission wasn't an acceptable reason for her to miss something that important. Maybe it was time to get some sleep, for all she knew she might feel slightly better once she woke up. So with bottle in hand, she staggered to her room, set the bottle down and only just got far enough that she would safely fall forwards onto her bed, crawling under the covers of it after a moment of silent contemplation.

"Guess it's just me and your parents left to watch over Miko now, eh? I'll kick the hell out of you for this when I join you in Tian, Hiraku, you can be sure of that."

Time was barely kept track of as Kyoi eventually slept, all she was sure of really was that she allowed herself to shed a few tears before resting and it didn't help lessen the ache in her heart in the slightest.
[/hr]

---

[/fieldbox]

---

 

[Oetje]

[fieldbox=A Training of the Ame Team!!!, lightgreen]
Amegakure, the provincial capital of the River Province of the Akinian Empire.
Training Facility - Team Etsu.

A collab between Nimeee, Zaneee, Aliceee and Oetjeee!

Part 1!
Part 2!
This is Part 3!

Summary:
Etsu takes her team to the Training Facility complex. There she takes the bells test. The start of the test is where the three girls discuss the plan on how to take the bells from Etsu.

[spoili]
The sudden change in Etsu's movement made it so the hand wasn't even close, but it still remained present. After the sudden gust of wind from Rini pushed Etsu back, the hand would begin extending itself, seemingly aiming to still grab Etsu's foot, but in reality aiming to wrap itself around both legs. Kuni slowly rose out of the ground, maintaining a contact with the earth using her left hand while taking out a pair of shuriken with her right and throwing them towards Etsu.

Watching her weave through the paper shuriken was not the best motivator, what did give some hope although all it did was push her further way was Rini's gust of wind slamming into her. It even sent some of her paper shuriken towards her. Yet it seemed like she was simply toying with them at this rate. Deflecting all her paper projectiles and cleaving some was child's play to her. Looking at the field littered with paper weaponry only further made her sigh as she wondered what Kuni planned on doing with that hand. Wait a second. Kitana would weave some handseals as her body seemingly starts to look more like it was made of sheets of paper. Bundles of her paper would form around her back giving her paper wings, which she used to take off flying. Sending a hail of paper feathers from her wings down below towards Etsu.

"Shit." Rini cursed as she saw how Etsu managed to hold herself. Fair enough, she was a jounin but Rini had some faint hope that the move could have had more effect. It did prove that her theory was somewhat right. The jounin couldn't read her mind and react a split second later. Not that it made matters much easier but it was a start. A grin flowed on Rini's lips as her right hand would slowly travel to the hilt of her katana. "Almost had you there, Etsu-sensei!" The genin said with the border-arrogant smile on her lips. Despite acting all confident, the young girl could feel the cold beads of sweat forming and rolling over her back.

Spotting the hand made of earth move towards her, Etsu's eyes closed half. She would briefly glance towards Kitana as the chuunin seemed to also move into action. The jounin would fixate her gaze on Rini while a smile flowed on the woman's lips. "Almost."

Before the paper or the earth hand could reach her, Etsu would flow into the ground. Without any warning and in a rapid pace, the jounin used the Hidden Mole technique to evade the attacks of both chuunin as well staying out of the visual sight of Rini and Kitana. There was the fact that Kuni could trace her but Etsu was more than ready to face the Four Tail's jinchuriki underground.

Before either her earth hand or the papers landed, Etsu vanished in a manner very familiar to the Jinchuuriki. So she was a user of Earth techniques, she could try and work with that "Kitana, stay as you are. As long as you don't touch the ground, she won't know where you are, and that could play to our advantage. I can track her, but I doubt I'll be able to face her underground on my own." Kuni explained as she kept touching the ground "Any quick ideas?" She asked the two, hoping they can come up with anything.

Her paper scattered across the ground hitting the hard surface and spreading out across the area. Hovering in the air she would sigh and rub her temple a bit. She was simply toying with them, getting only a bit more serious every so often. Hearing Kuni say her idea wouldn't pan out well for Kitana in the long run, as it took her chakra to keep this jutsu going. Flying over to Rini, she would hover around her as she kept her guard up. Rini was the only one without a real way to escape. Kuni could go underground if she was suicidal, she could stay in the air for a certain bit longer. So if she needed to, she could grab and fly away with her. "Well I doubt she would let us. She's up to something. Can either of you two sense anything?"

Watching how the jounin moved underground was demoralizing. The attacks of both Kuni and Kitana had accomplished little to nothing. Narrowing her eyes, Rini would crouch on one knee as she brought her hands together. Forming the rat handsignal. "Yes. I am on it." The genin replied, gritting her teeth. It took a second but she was quick to realise something. There were two identical chakra signatures. One moving up to the surface while the other remained underground. "Mmmm. Kitana. I need you to prepare all the tags you can. Fake." Realising that the request was quite vague, Rini would get up and turn her attention to Kuni. "If you can actually keep track of her underground, that would be a boon. If this does work," Rini started to mould once more chakra at her hands, "Then you both owe me."

The jounin was moving underground, away from her students. She wondered how they would tackle the objective now. After all, they were supposed to obtain the bells. Yet, the temptation to make the situation more thrilling with attempting to drive them into their defence was quite present. Etsu, however, decided to just make some distance. Once she considered that there was ample space between them, Etsu made a shadow clone. The shadow clone would get to the surface while she remained underground.

Climbing out of the ground, the shadow clone dusted her clothes off for a second as she glanced at the chuunin and genin. "Well? Round 2?" The jounin asked, in a playful fashion.

Simply nodding in response, Kuni kept track of the movements of not one, but two figures underground. Through the vibrations she felt that one was moving up towards them while the other remained still "Incoming over there-" She said and pointed at a spot with some distance from where they were "-Now."

And indeed, Etsu would come out of the ground, dust herself and seemingly challenge the team for another round. Staying on the spot, Kuni removed her hand from the ground but slightly sunk into it with her feet, allowing her to still keep tabs on the vibrations. She glanced towards Rini and Kitana, wondering what kind of plan the two were about to perform.

Fake tags? I mean she could do that sure, but she wasn't sure how well this plan might go if she were to challenge it. That is if she was thinking about this the right way. In the palm of her hand, the fake tags would start appearing as she would continue making them, only stopping when Kuni reported that she was incoming fast towards the surface. Smiling at Rini's comment she would toss the fake tags into the air, allowing Rini to do whatever she wished to do with the fake bundle of paper.

Rini's eyes narrowed. "Sensei," she began on a strict tone, "I would surrender right now. Else Kitana will activate the explosive tags as I will fuel the ignition with my wind release. You can go underground but I am certain you're aware of how much damage this can cause. And somebody will have to pay for the damage." The genin said, her hands close from clapping. Chakra was moulding and being held at her palms, a force that was at the ready to be unleashed in a most violent manner.

Etsu's clone stared at the falling bundle of paper tags. The eyes of the woman narrowed for a moment, only to widen to notice the particular seals on the falling tags. Added with Rini's comment, the woman turned her attention rapidly towards her student.
"Oef! Blackmail!" The shadow clone said as she rubbed her neck, considering her options. The tags slowly started to descend and by the looks of it, it sure would be a hell of an explosion if the genin added a powerful gust to it.

Raising her hands up, the shadow clone flashed a somewhat nervous smile.
"Now, let us drop the fight. I guess that I am in no place to bargain back. How about you girls don't blow anything up and cause me to pay up for the repairs? Then I will consider that you guys bested me, this time. Hm?"
----------------------------------------- ^ posted.

As she watched the exchange that took place between Rini and Etsu, Kuni couldn't help but freeze for a brief moment. The threat Rini made towards Etsu made her recall her Chuunin Exam, where she made a similar threat to her opponent. Although when the Etsu in front of them was willing to surrender, she snapped back to reality. Sensing the vibrations, she could tell the Etsu underground was still not making any movements.

Looking at the Etsu in front of them, Kuni brought her hands behind her back "I would be in favor of that, if it weren't for the fact we need to get the bells, not make you surrender." She said, glancing towards Rini and Kitana for a brief moment as she formed a few seals behind her back "And then there's also the fact that dropping our fight means we would be completely exposed for you to take us out." She added, with her right leg moving a bit as she finished speaking.

Kitana waited next to Rini just incase she needed to quickly move the two, when Etsu's clone seemed to be taking the bait and said they should drop the fight. Kitana held up the sign and activated one paper bomb ten feet away from Etsu's clone. "Bells first. That explosion was just to show you that Im serious~" Kitana said giving a smile, she had a few explosive tags lying around from her previous paper attacks, yet not enough to level this building if she called bluff.

The genin felt slightly more confident when Etsu's clone decided to give up on the fight. Holding her hands in front of her, ready to unleash the powerful wind gust to fuel the possible explosion, Rini nodded. If anything, the genin was certain that when Etsu would see through their bluff that they would be in some trouble.

A sigh escaped Etsu's clone as she threw a glance to where the explosion went off. Raising both her hands, the jounin replied back to her student. "Yes, yes. But I mean it. No attacks or funny business. Else I will have to become serious." She said as she would poof away in a bit of smoke. The real Etsu would move up to the surface. Reaching out, the jounin effortlessly pulled herself out of the ground.
"Hm, okay. Now here we go," she said, reaching for the bells. Grabbing the bells, the woman would throw up in an arc towards the girls.
"Now, I didn't imagine you girls putting up some teamwork already like that. Guess that I don't have to test that any time soon again."

The explosion caused by Kitana as a show of power didn't phase Kuni, who simply kept looking towards the Etsu that stood in front of them. When the clone vanished and the real Etsu came up, surrendering the real bells to them, Kuni turned to look at Rini and Kitana before nodding, indicating that was the real her and that those were the real bells. Moving her hands from behind her back, Kuni seemed to relax a bit, but kept her feet sunk slightly into the ground. Sneaky people could always come up with another trick up their sleeve at the last second, after all. And Etsu certainly seemed to be a sneaky person to her.

This all seemed too easy going, she had to know they were bluffing. Just looking at them would be all she needed to know if they were bull shitting her on blowing the building up. She saw Kuni signal that this was the real woman and real bells yet she didn't quite deactivate her shinigami just yet. She looked at Rini and would whisper to her. "Anything seem off? Can you sense anything that Kuni can't pick up underground?"

When Kuni confirmed that this was the real Etsu, Rini felt the need to sigh and just let herself fall backwards. Her hands trembled slightly for she was starting to lose confidence that she could bluff the jounin into surrendering. Despite they didn't even experience Etsu going full serious, Rini felt that this was enough. They were with more and even then it felt like that the woman was just constantly toying with them. There was an inkling of dread going through the genin as she imagined for a moment on how terrifying it would be to face Etsu when she would turn serious. Despite hearing Kitana's request, Rini closed her eyes and took a second before she replied back.
"One second," placing her hands into the Rat handsignal, she would provide the chuunin with an answer. "No, nothing off."

Etsu observed the three girls. She noticed that Kuni sunk her feet slightly into the ground. It caused the woman to snicker for a second. Watching how the bells fell on the ground, in front of the three girls, Etsu wondered how distrustful the girls actually were. Then Rini allowed herself to lay on her back, clearly not eager to continue a fight.
"Good. Now, that will concludes today's training. You girls best clean up the tags," Etsu casually gestured to the paper tags. "After that, you got the rest of the day off. Rally point of tomorrow is once again at this facility. You all are expected to have full gear with you." Flashing a smile, Etsu would take her leave, stretching her arms as she would go and 'enjoy' the rest of her day.
[/spoili]
[/fieldbox]

 

[Lesli]

[fieldbox=Gathering Information, chocolate]

Saki Yamanaka

| Spc. Jounin | Konohagakure Team 6 member| Captain-Major of the Guardians | Second-in-command of the Tiger Claws |
[ Wolf Country - The Akinian Camp, Tiger Claws 'department'. ]​

It was dark in the tent. A stool was in the centre of the tent where one of the enemies prisoners was tied up. The interior's air was reeking of sweat, blood and some other unpleasurable sources. The soft sound of a blade being sharpened could be heard from the right. A member of the Tiger Claw sharpened his knife, while softly humming a rather cheerful tone.

Saki watched the prisoner. He was gagged but not blindfolded. His hands and feet were tied and the things he had seen were terrifying. Despite Hayate's orders, Saki had taken the lives of various low ranked enemies that had been taken prisoner. Once she had searched their mind of anything that could be of aid, she would object them one by one to torture. Not because she wanted them to suffer. Neither for the sake of revenge. But to make the one officer that they had caught to talk.

The captive had seen it all. How she had made the men beg in their tongue for mercy. To make the pain and treatment end. Now it was his turn. Saki wondered for a moment how terrified he was. Having seen a group of his comrades being treated as garbage. Expendable trash.
Her arms were crossed out front of her chest as she stood near the opening of the tent. Locking her crystal blue eyes on the officer, Saki would throw a look at the Tiger Claw that was done sharpening his knife. Nodding, Saki would turn her attention to the officer. Slowly but surely the Tiger Claw member rose up and walked towards the opening of the tent. Leaving Saki alone with the officer.

"Now we are alone." Saki said, though not speaking in Taika or Yakimara. The constant infiltration and probing through the minds of the soldiers allowed her to grasp and learn more about their culture and language. The problem was that most of the information was still a puzzle for her to piece together. The language was easier to grasp for her, through the Mind Reading technique. Though the extraction of information had been painless, it had certainly not been pleasant either.

Walking towards the officer, Saki lowered herself in front of him. "You saw what we did to the others. It was painful. Unpleasant." The Yamanaka said slowly. "But you don't need to suffer or die. We can be... friends. You help me, I help you." She explained, locking her eyes on the man.

"Fuck off." The man sneered, his features showing anger and determination. Saki remained silent. She had been part of the Zero Teams. Infiltration and gathering information was something she had been taught. Something every member of the Zero Teams was ought to be specialised in. Where many thought that it would be efficient to apply pain through torture, it was actually not that beneficial. People have a breaking point. Once you apply enough pain and pressure, they will do anything to make you stop. To say anything you want to hear to make you stop the torture. Such information is unreliable. Flawed.

"I am serious. You help me, I help you. I just need you to talk." Saki calmly continued. Her features betrayed nothing of the building up anger. The itch of her hands dressed in her gloves. The desire to hurt this man. To make him suffer unimaginable pains. As revenge for having lost Hideki. She knew that she could make him suffer. Immensely. All she needed was just a box. Or a metal needle.

"You heathens can fuck off. The Maker will take me in. Go ahead, kill me. Torture me." The officer barked right in Saki's face. Feeling a few drops of saliva, Saki would take a step back. Turning around, she would raise her hand and wipe her face clean.

"We can torture you. Keep you even alive for weeks." She began, turning around to the officer again. "There is this method. Where I can just use a box." Her words caused some confusion as the man frowned, trying to understand why she needed a box.

"You will go into a box. Barely enough space to move. I will keep you there for days. You will have to drink through a small crack and that is that. Maybe even decide to dig and keep you underground." She calmly explained, while the fear on the man's face became more evident. The particular torture method was a favourite of the covert operatives from the Wind country. Or so that was what she had been told.

"The Maker will--" "The Maker has to do nothing. Give me the information I need and I can arrange you some amnesty. We aren't all barbarians." Saki calmly interrupted the man. She waited as the officer considered his options. The foul stench in the tent was a subtle reminder of what would happen if he wouldn't comply.

"I will talk."
"Good. Let us talk."

---

Walking out of the tent, Saki nodded to the duo Tiger Claws that were standing guard. They entered the tent as Saki kept walking. The officer had complied and given her the information. As the man spoke, she would use her sensory technique to verify if he spoke the truth. According to the officer, the enemy army was an expeditionary force. It had no established information with the forces back home. When Saki had expressed interest, the man had given some information on the forces that his country had. According to the officer, this force was just one of the many armies that they had.

Sending a Tiger Claw member to the tent of Hayate, she would request a meeting with him. This information about an eastern realm being able to boast such a large military would surely pick up their presence. And if they would face more forces of this size then Saki was certain that they had no chance of success. They needed help from their own homefront.

Or perhaps even more?
[/fieldbox]

 

[Lesli]

[fieldbox=Moving Out - Part 1, gold]
Eastern Continent, Wolf Country.
Forces of the Lightning Country, commander in charge being Satoshi Jun.

A collab between Oblivion, Jason, Glitchybugger and Lesli.

Summary:
Genji Hojo has been assigned a small force, that is required to scout the terrain north. The objective concludes that they need to find a crossing and then scout the area. They need to try to stay clear from hostiles as the Commander doesn't want to risk losing troops to needless skirmishes.

[spoili]
Having been reached by a messenger from Satoshi, he was a bit excited for the task given to him. Hearing some of the people assigned under him he had told the messenger to go inform these individuals to meet him north of the camp. As he arrrived he was busy formulating from what he knew, the best course of action to take. Mizuchi was one from his own clan and seemed to have a few people calling her Demon. So she may be good to keep near the front in case of combat arrising. Niji was one that he heard a little about. So she seemed to be adaptable to whatever he may need her for. Kaya however was one that escaped him, he would need to ask her what she was capable of when eh arrived. As he was thinking, the people trusted to him started showing up with a few faces he could remember. In fact a couple of soldeirs he was with when he helped escort that one lady were in his force. Giving each of them a strong handshake and pat on the back. About fourteen had arrived, so he still had to wait for a majority to arrive.

A shield slung at her back, Kaya slugged through the camp towards the meeting point. It was a bit demotivating that she wasn't going out together with Yumeji. But she was sure that she would be able to manage. Yumeji, at least. The genin briefly gritted her teeth as she tried to inspire some courage within herself. Spotting the marks of what the meeting point was, the genin would try to walk with a straight back - to come over a tad more confident. The hatchet that she had received together with the shield before the first large battle was holstered at her right, the axehead resting on the ring. Spotting the captain, that was giving handshakes and apparently was close with the soldiers, Kaya took a second to breathe in. With her gambeson and present weaponry, hopefully she wouldn't give too much away that she was a kunoichi. Then again, her appearance didn't really match that of many soldiers. Never the less, Kaya approached the group of soldiers and the pressumed captain.

"Kaya Irozaki, captain, sir." Kaya reported as she offered a resolute salute with her free hand, a fist to her chest.

"I'll be fine, Yuu. Stop worrying." The Chuunin said with a slight tone of irritation. Giving a quick peck on the lips to the soldier, she turned and made her way back through the camp towards the meeting point. Stopping quickly to pick up her sword from the smithes who had finished repairing the weapon, she continued on her path. It wouldn't be long before she arrived, just after a girl saluting though Mizuchi hadn't arrived soon enough to catch her name. She waited until the one before her was finished reporting in, then stepped up and offered a crisp salute as well. "Mizuchi Hojo, captain, sir." She said, though she recognized Genji from the brief time they'd met before.

It had taken a while, but Niji had managed to wash out the blood stains that had soaked into her uniform to a respectable degree. Almost exactly on time she was approached by a messenger about meeting up for a mission. "Thank you, I'll make my way there soon." Was it too soon for more work? Hardly, she'd been keeping herself busy around the camp for this long so it was only one more thing to focus on. All there was left to do was finish dressing and don her padded armour.
Niji's arrival at the meeting point north of the camp was at more or less the same time at Mizuchi, though the Hojo introduced herself first. "And Niji Yakei, sir." A salute much like the others followed her introduction.

As more and more arrived one of the people the messenegr reported would be under his command arrived. Kaya Irozaki seemed really young to be in a war, she could be around his younger brother's ages. Yet she knew respect, enough to the point he smiled and placed his fist to his chest as well. "Well meet Kaya Irozaki. My name is Genji Hojo, I have some questions I would like to ask you about." Genji stated before the next to arrive would be Mizuchi Hojo. The ever clever eye could see his smile drop ever so slightly as he would give Mizuchi a nod in return, which was also given to Niji who seemed to just include her name on the end of Mizuchi's sentence. As this was going on, the last of the soldeirs would arrive causing him to clear his throat to get everyone's attention.

"Alright everyone listen up. We were given a task that if we don't fuck around on should be over and done with. My name is Genji Hojo otherwise known as Captain. So what I say goes. If you have something to say, then you may voice it to me. Otherwise listen to orders and we will be back here at camp soon enough. We are to head north and cross the few hills, where we will then conduct a simple patrol. If you see any enemy report it right away to me. We are not to engage the enemy! We then scout the rivers for a natural crossing, and then proceed to cross and scout for enemy activity. If were lucky we can find a way to drop in on these bastards. Again I repeat, we are not to engage any enemy we come across! Any questions?!"

After the captain had returned a nod, Mizuchi forced herself to keep a calm expression. For a brief moment her gaze shot towards Niji, wondering why the other had chosen to just tack her name on the end. She also noticed the captain didn't seem to return to salute. Whatever. Listening to their mission, the Chuunin nodded along. Scouting mission, and do not engage the enemy. Simple enough, though plenty of room for it all to go wrong. The Hojo decided to listen instead of ask any questions, as it was rather straight forward. As such, she remained silent and waited for others to ask questions of their own.

"If we're split from the group for some reason, is there a rendevous point we should return to outside of the main camp?" Niji knew it probably wasn't an important question, but it felt like something that was better to know now than try to figure out just in case members of the group were separated from the main body.

Kaya flashed a faint smile back. She was serving underneath another Hojo? That wasn't going to be a problem for her. So far she knew, this was just one operation. As two more joined, Kaya shot them a brief look but she didn't recognise either of them. For that reason, she would try to make it herself a tad comfortable. Taking a few steps away, she checked her gear quickly. Just to make sure that she wasn't missing anything that could prove vital for later. When Genji started to speak up again, Kaya turned and placed her attention on the captain. The objectives sounded quite simple. Even easy. Yet, Kaya didn't think it would be that easy. Ever since she had set been on this cursed continent, nothing had been easy.
When one of the two other newcomers asked a question, Kaya's eyebrows slightly rose. She turned her gaze to Genji but decided to not part her lips. She had various questions but some things couldn't likely be answered right away. So far it sounded that the objectives were simple and that no big opposition was expected. A contingency plan to counter it wouldn't likely be in place.

As it seemed no one had any questions, Genji was about to state for them to start heading out when Niji would ask a question about being split from the group. "I intend to have groups and not have you all too wide spread. However I wouldn't say head right away back to camp if you get lost. Unless a massive force of theirs is the one cutting us off, we have no need to head back to camp right away. So if you do get split up, we will have a meeting point at the hills to fall back to. We are patrolling the area for a reason everyone. Remember that." Genji said as he looked around for anymore questions. When none were given he would speak again. "Okay then we will march out now. Any other questions that come to mind will have to be reported as we march. So lets head out and get this job done!"

With all that said and done, Genji would pick up his gear which prompted the other men to do the same as they all began to march north of the camp.
--------------------------

As the march continued north for a few hours with one break in between, they would have reached the hills that he was told to begin patroling around. Once they reached the the bottom of the hills Genji would start climbing up the hill, looking back at the others. "For those wondering the top of this hill is where we will meet up again after we finish our patrols. Once you get to the top you get a small break before we head out again. So put your backs into it men!" Genji ordered as he kept climbing the fairly large sized hill. The top was within sight, yet their gear would make the hike a bit more difficult than they probably would like.

The breathing of the genin had changed over the course of the patrol. Where she had started to become more known with the paces of the marching as well to what she had to pay attention to, the genin started to become a tad tired. The gambeson was quite good against the cold but with the thick isolation, Kaya could feel some beads of sweat rolling over her back. But seeing the situation, she doubted that anybody would complain that she would wind up reeking of sweat at one point. When the climb for the hill started, Kaya muttered a soft curse. Her left hand held the handle of her shield, that was in the centre, in a tight grip. Her right hand rested for a moment on the head of her hatchet while she slugged herself through the snow. Where the hill was already annoying with being large, the snow didn't make it much easier to climb it. Keeping her eyes locked on the figure ahead, Kaya wondered for a moment if this Genji was or wasn't familiar with Yumeji.

Letting out a slight sigh at the hill they would climb, Mizuchi knew that it wouldn't be much fun. The snow would no doubt make it even more of a pain. However she pushed these feelings to the side, focusing solely on accomplishing the task at hand and the break that would surely follow. As she trudged through the snow, Mizuchi placed a single hand on her blade to keep it from swinging and being an nuisance. The Chuunin wondering to herself if they'd be able to find some way to get the jump on these bastards during this mission.

The hill would make for a good spot to get an overwatch on the local area during the break they would get, and it'd definitely be more hassle for anyone coming after them to get up the hill, all in all it wasn't a bad place to be. The walk up was a bit tedious what with the snow and the incline but Niji wouldn't complain, it wasn't worth complaining about something that made for good exercise anyway. She watched the others ahead of her in the group, mostly looking to make sure they weren't about to trip or stumble and bring everyone behind them tumbling back down.

Trudging throught he snow uphill certainly was a different task than he was use to. Climbing uphill with gear on was tough enough, add some snow into the mix and needless to say even the experienced would find this a bit difficult. Taking a look back at how everyone was doing, for the most part they seemed to be doing rather okay. Even the young one Kaya was pushing through despite this probably being rather difficult for her.
After probably a good ten minutes of hiking through the snow covered hill, they would reach the top where as promised everyone was given a ten minute break. During this time he would walk over to Kaya and give her a smile. "Good job keeping up Kaya, as I mentioned earlier today. I have some questions I would liek to ask you, your combat experience. What would you say about it? Close quarters or are you more of a range type of person?"

Ten minutes of trudging up through the snowy hill left quite a present ache in Niji's legs, though it wasn't anything she couldn't put up with, she decided that during her break she'd make a little snowman and probably leave it at that.
So she picked and balled up two snow balls, and set them on top of one another, then made a smaller ball and put it on as the head. The only downside to all this snow and such a small snowman was finding anything to use as a nose, eyes or arms, so she carefully marked out the eyes, nose and mouth with her little finger and looked at it for a moment. It was certainly a nice little distraction, that much she was sure of.

Finally reaching the top, Kaya tried to keep her breath regulated. Rolling with her shoulders, she kept a tight grip on the center grip of her round shield. But there was no visual of an enemy unit, at the ready to assault their group. Slinging the shield to hand at her back, the genin threw a glance around. Following the river up to the north, she couldn't see anything that gave her any comfort. It seemed as if they were far away from any civilisation. Just alone to do battle against an enemy that was larger in size, easily double their own numbers. It forced a frustrated sigh to escape from Kaya's lips. Turning half around to see what the unit was doing, Kaya caught sight of the one that went by the name Niji. What this Niji did make Kaya frown. Then the frown vanished as a blank look took hold of Kaya's features. Where there were a few questions going through her mind, she decided against voicing them. Soon enough, Genji the captain decided to walk over to her and ask her a few questions.

"Ask away, captain, sir," Was Kaya's first response. Thinking for a moment, Kaya locked her eyes on the Hojo's. "I got some experience when it comes to combat. Nothing of the large scale, though. I am more of a close quarter fighter. Starting to get the hang of wielding a hatchet," the genin further added to her answer as she patted the head of her axe - still hanging in its holder. A second of silence passed as Kaya broke her gaze and threw a look where they had came from. "Other than that, I try to get better with using a shield. Got somebody helping with it. Goes by the name of Yumeji Hojo, captain, sir." Turning silent, Kaya threw a look at Genji, waiting if he had any additional questions.

Letting out a light sigh as she looked out at the view from the top of the hill, Mizuchi took in the surroundings. Apart from the ugly blights cause by warfare, the chuunin found this place to look rather peaceful. With the snow covering the ground, it was in a strange way rather pretty. She spent a few moments looking out over the view before turning to look back towards the rest of the unit. Niji, the girl who had fought with her during the battle, seemed to be idly making a little snowman. Something the chuunin would've thought adorable were it a kid, and not in a place like this. With a light roll of her green eyes she then turned to see the captain speaking with the girl who had come before her, somebody who Mizuchi still hadn't caught the name of. The Hojo made a mental note to fix that later whenever she wasn't talking to captain or the group elsewise busy. Perhaps it would be nice to spend the brief break just taking in the surroundings? With that though the girl turned back to look over the cover of white snow that seemed to stretch forever off into the distance.

He would listen intently to what she said nodding his head a bit surprised someone so young, was using a up and personal weapon like that. It made him smirk a bit, she was holding her own despite her youth. Hearing she was learning to get better with a shield from Yumeji Hojo piqued his interest a bit. "Oh? Well you got a good tutor then. Is she teaching you how to use your weapon as well?" Genji asked as he scanned over the group. They seemed to be doing fine so far, although he wondered why the one girl was making a snowman. Yet before Kaya could respond, one soldier came running towards him. "Captain, sir! We have around five hostiles approaching us from behind!" This caused his attention to snap to the man. His happy expression changing to a serious one. "From behind?! At Least it's onl- " Before he could finish two more soldiers ran up. Telling him about five hostiles approaching from the west and east of the hill. "You've got to be..... " He growled, was this a trap all along? How long have they been watching them to sneak up on soo many sides.
"We have the high ground! Ten men on each side were being attacked! I don't want any of you being flashy! Deal with them like any other enemy! Kaya with me." Genji reported as the men grabbed their weapons and moved into position to intercept this ambush. Genji unsheathed his sword and grabbed his shield and moved with the other men to intercept the men attacking from behind. Poorly uniformed and wielding savage like weapons. It made sense to lay ambush units all over the place if you had numbers like they did. They just charged through the snow panting heavily, yet didn't seem like they were slowing down in the slightest. With them meeting the spot Genji was at. He would raise his shield as one man swung a club and parry it to the side, then with a quick upwards slash sliced the man's arm off and pushed him backwards with his shield. This sent the man tumbling down the hill leaving blotches of red as he went further down.
Meanwhile while Mizuchi was looking out at the landscape she would notice around seven men charging up towards her and the other men getting prepared to engage them. Meanwhile the east and west side were both being attacked quite aggressively although the men were holding their own pretty well.

Niji could feel the gazes on her as she busied herself with making the little snowman, it didn't really bother her though, before she could do anything more with it there were reports coming up of sightings on enemies that were surrounding them on the hill. Whilst she may have been thinking "So much for not engaging the enemy" there wasn't any point in saying it when it was an unexpected attack.
Instead she disregarded her snowman, stepping on it to compact it back into the snow and brought her sword out of a seal on her sleeve. A quick glance around telling her that the east and west were relatively okay in terms of numbers, the captain and Kaya were headed towards one side and the side that Mizuchi was on was likely the only other option. "Do you want a hand with that side?" Her question was left fairly open, honestly she figured that the Hojo would be fine on her own based on her performance in the previous battle.

The beautiful landscape was soon interrupted by the ugly sight of around seven charging up the hill. An irritated sigh left her lips as she gripped the handle of her weapon. "Here we go." She mumbled softly and waited for them to get even closer. As the soldiers on either side of her moved to meet the enemy, Mizuchi's blade left it's sheath in a deadly arc of steel. The man charging her let out a slight sound of surprise before stumbling back then tumbling down the hill with a trail of crimson from his mortal wound. However the Chuunin did not hesitate, turning her attention and blade to deflect an attack coming in to her right. However she didn't let him recover, instead descending upon him like a demon towards its prey.

Before Kaya could answer back to captain Genji, somebody reported that hostiles were spotted. Frowning, Kaya didn't hesitate to grip the handle of her axe and pull it out of the holding ring. When more started to report that enemies were approaching their position, Kaya looked left and right. Almost expecting that the enemy would also start to drop from above. Gripping her shield tightly, Kaya felt her heart skipping a beat.
"Dear gods, watch over me."
As Genji ordered her to follow, Kaya didn't say anything in return. Instead, she would do as the captain instructed. Taking the position to the right of Genji, Kaya saw their enemies charging at them. Narrowing her eyes, she held her shield as Yumeji had instructed her. Luckily for them, the enemy had to climb the hill in order to get to them.

Though Genji took care of an enemy, his attack would mean that his right was exposed for a moment. A man stepped forward with a hatchet, attempting to hack at the captain. Instead, the blade of the hatchet slammed against wood. The trembling force would move through Kaya's arm as she gritted her teeth. Pushing the shield in order to force the opponent back, the genin would lash out with a firm kick. Causing the attacker to stumble back into one of his mates, sending both men rolling down the hill.
With her heart skipping beats, adrenaline pumping through her system, Kaya would attempt to ready herself to keep guarding herself and Genji against any attack with her shield. The hatchet she was holding, at the ready to strike from a close distance.

Spotting a man taking a swing at him, he got ready to raise his sword to block the incoming attack. To his surprise and the enemies though, it would be Kaya who would block the attack. She would then kick the man into his ally and cause both to go tumbling down the hill. He had a slight smile but among the commotion he heard from behind him a certain question that turned the smile into a frown and glare. Which one of the poor attackers took the brunt of as Genji parried the club of the man's and slammed his sword through the sternum of the guy.

Yanking it out and then shoving him into his comrade who braced himself and clutched the guy so he didn't end up tumbling down the hill. He would toss the dead corpse to the side only to drop to his knees clutching his bleeding throat after a swipe of his sword from Genji. The enemies on their side were dwindling fast causing them to tuck tail and run from them. With one side down, Genji ordered them to split up and aid the other sides, but once the enemy took notice of this, the other sides would end up retreating as well.

With the ambush over with, Genji would stomp over to Niji and stare her directly in her eyes. "I have only one thing to say to you. If you ever ask a stupid question like that again, and not help your allies outright. There will be huge consequences. Am I clear?"

Two more fell to Mizuchi shortly after, the Chuunin wasting no time in dispatching her foes. Meanwhile the remaining three attackers were out to the sword by the allies standing at her side. As her last opponent fell, the enemy began to retreat and she took in a deep breath to help steady herself. Producing a small rag to clean her blade from the blood before returning it to her sheath, Mizuchi turned to head back into their small group. Seeing the captain tearing into Niji, the Hojo decided it better to avoid the warpath for the moment. Turning instead to some of the soldiers who had stood with her. "Are you alright?" She asked simply, wanting to see if there were any glaring injuries that should've been reported. Nobody seemed badly wounded, apart from cuts and bruises. Turning back towards the horizon, she wondered where the enemy had come from. It felt like a trap, no doubt. Taking a step back behind her allies then closing her eyes for a moment, Mizuchi focused her chakra. Just attempting to get a brief glimpse around in hopes of finding where they were heading. All around she could see the enemy heading in multiple directions, nothing clear about where they were going.

Opening her eyes once more, she sighed. It wasn't a surprising result but the girl could hope. At least she could confirm at the moment they weren't concealing their chakra like during the first ambush. The Chuunin swore under her breath, if she'd been watching with her technique then it would've been less of a surprise...

Holding her shield at the ready, Kaya gritted her teeth. The enemy was fleeing and yet her blade wasn't stained with their blood. For a moment, she debated to give chase. With none of the other soldiers on their side moving forward, Kaya decided to raise her hatchet. Aiming as best as she could, the weapon would be thrown with all the force Kaya could muster in her right arm. The weapon soared through the air before it plunged into the back of an enemy, causing the man to drop as letting out a shout of pain and frustration. Watching the man drop into the snow and trying to reach for the hatchet in his back, Kaya's heart skipped a beat. Not leaving ranks, she bites her lip as the man was lying there. Suffering.
Narrowing her eyes, Kaya would spit in his direction before turning around and taking a few steps from the previous spot, where snow was tainted with drops of blood. Her heart was still racing. Hopefully, Yumeji wouldn't be in more trouble than that they had been. Or still were.

[/spoili]
[/fieldbox]

 

[Lesli]

[fieldbox="Operation Winter Hunters - Kumitama Team, #5900b3"] Strife and Phoenix| Akinian Empire, Tomi District of Shimoda

---

The Hunt is on. Operation Winter Hunters is in full swing, and the Ghost ANBU are deployed. Moving to Shimoda, the capital of the Framí province, they are informed that they will gain some support of the Grey Guard.

---

[ Classified information. ]

[spoili]
[ Operative's objective ]
Hunt and take down all Zealots cells and allies.
Privileges and rights of citizens and non-citizens can be overridden during Operation Winter Hunters.

[ Secondary objective ]
None so far.

[ Mission launched by ]
Lord Commander.

[ Boundaries ]
Not allowing external forces, other than assigned ones, to learn about the nature of Operation Winter Hunters. Compromising can lead to punishment.

[ Members on Team Strife ]

Warning: Classified Information

Leader, 'Strife' :
[spoili]
[ Real Name]
Yumi Hasewaga
[ Age ]
22 years old.
[ Expertise ]
Assassination and Infiltration.
[ Record Status ]
Served in Konohagakure Team 2 of Kanajiro Hanamoto. During this early period of Strife's carreer, she showed remarkable skill on working alone. Cold and calculated, she was recruited into the ANBU after the collapse of Team Kanajiro. In the ANBU she continued to work more on her own but eventually got assigned as supporting member for Team 4 of Kensuke Nimatsu. After the latter's promotion and assignment of becoming Team 7's leader, Strife continued to work for one mission with Team 4 as the leading figure. Publicly, this mission ended in the death of the team but all members were recruited into the Ghost ANBU.

---

[/spoili]

Member 'Phoenix' :
[spoili]
[ Real Name]
Tsubasa Kokoro
[ Age ]
21 years old.
[ Expertise ]
Direct combat and sensory.
[ Record Status ]
Served in Team 4 her entire time in the regular shinobi corps. Was known for her different way of combat as well the use of a form of senjutsu. Her introduction into the Ghost ANBU was rather smooth and some rumours among the Ghost ANBU is that she is one of the favourites of the Empress herself.

---

[/spoili]

Member 'Marker' :
[spoili]
[ Real Name]
Akitoshi Nara
[ Age ]
43
[ Expertise ]
Infiltration and counter-intelligence.
[ Record Status ]
The start of Akitoshi Nara's career began in Team 15 of Hitaka Nara. Akitoshi soon, however, managed to progress to the ANBU ranks and worked for years in the ANBU corps. His particular skill and experience were the reasons he became handpicked to become a Ghost ANBU. One of his 'feats' during his work is having worked on spying on the previous Feudal lord of the Fang Country.

---

[/spoili]

Member 'Rookie' :
[spoili]
[ Real Name]
Ryohei Akiraka
[ Age ]
19 years old.
[ Expertise ]
Assassination and medical ninjutsu.
[ Record Status ]
Ryohei's record isn't entirely clean. Apparently, when becoming a chuunin he made a grave mistake that led to the death of his team. While this would lead to a certain punishment, he became recruited into the Ghost ANBU for his particular abilities.

---

[/spoili]

[/spoili]​

---

[spoili]
The cart was heavy and it cost Yumi quite some strength to push it forward, together with 'Marker'. Nobody on the street seemed to care. They just moved out of the cart. And then continued on their own. Moving the cart up to the front of the house, Yumi threw a glance at the side. No guards were around. Which mean that Phoenix and Rookie had done their job properly. Turning the cart, Yumi and Marker would use the heavy cart to blockade the entrance. Marker grumbled something as he kicked one of the wheels. A soft thud could be heard. Seeing the older Nara nodding towards her, the two turned towards the front door of the villa.

Walking towards the door, Yumi would use one of her hairpins. The lock wasn't that hard for Yumi to pick open. Managing to open the door, Yumi didn't waste a second. Pushing the door, she walked into the villa. The exquisite taste and presence of luxury didn't interest her. Hearing something above, the eyes of the young woman narrowed.

"Hold." She ordered the older Nara. The man simply nodded. He took a step forward, closing the door behind him. And simply vanished from sight. Yumi would head towards the nearby staircase. Raising the piece of cloth to hide the lower part of her face, the gloved hands of the young woman went to the hood. Pulling it over her head, she continued to climb the stairs. Whereas she would usually be cautious to not make a single sound, she didn't care this time.

A few stairs cracked underneath the weight of the young woman. Likely alerting anybody that was on the second floor that somebody was coming.

"He is at the end of the hallway, to the right, sweety,~" Phoenix's voice softly rang through the communicator. "We couldn't rid ourselves of the two guards at the entrance. There is one also in the room."

"Understood." Yumi replied back as she would turn to the right. She spotted the two guards and stood still for a second. The men were clad in chainmail and some lamellar plates. Not too shabby, Yumi considered as she watched how the guards were surprised for a moment to see her. Starting to walk towards the guards, Yumi flexed her fingers.

The guards were armed with a small round shield and swords. One of them knocked on the wood and shouted that they had an intruder. Which was the que for Yumi to pick up the pace. Running through the hallway, she started to mould her chakra. One of the guards moved forward to block her way, his shield in front while his sword was at the ready. When Yumi closed in the distance, the man attempted to slam his shield against the young woman.
Stepping to the side, Yumi would evade the strike. Pivoting, Yumi would avoid a stab from the man's sword. Opening her right hand, the soft cracking of crystal being slowly formed at the surface of the palm of the glove was the only warning that the man would get. But instead of being wary, the guard attempted another stab.

Yumi would move to the right side, avoiding the stab. Using her free hand, she would grab the man by the wrist and proceed to form crystal around the man's arm. Lashing out with her knee, she caused the guard to grumble as Yumi's knee hit him against his leg. Pushing him forward, Yumi didn't deem the stumbling guard worthy of a glance. With a snap of her fingers, the crystal would expand and drive itself into wall. Immobisling the first of the two guards.

The second came rushing in. His shield in front and sword at the ready, out of Yumi's sight as it was positioned behind the shield. Readying herself, the Ghost ANBU operative reacted in a manner that the guard likely hadn't anticipated. Lowering herself as stepping to the right, Yumi would trip the guard. As the man would stumble forward, Yumi would turn and throw herself at the guard.

The collision caused the guard to fall to the ground. Before he was able to react, Yumi was already on top of his back. Placing her hand on the man's left arm, she would let crystal form around the man's arm. Despite the man not being a scrawny guy, the thick purple material was too dense and strong for the man to break. The guard briefly attempted to lash out with his sword and legs at Yumi. But the Ghost ANBU simply moved back, out of reach.

Watching her handiwork, Yumi would turn around on her heels. Walking to the door where her target was located.

[/spoili]
[/fieldbox]

 

[Nim]

[fieldbox="Cleaning, #1589FF"]
Yoshikuni Sadako | Amegakure Team 22 Chuunin | Akinian Empire | Amegakure

Summary:
After her first training session with her new team, Kuni goes by the place she owns and decides to clean it. She recalls an old memory and also talks a bit to a former employee.​

---

[spoili]
It had been an hour since the training session with her new team had ended, and Kuni could've gotten back to Eiji's place a couple of times by then. But instead, she decided to walk further away, and go do something she had been wanting to do for over a month now. She hadn't done so prior to today as she wished to remain at a place where she would be easily reachable and they would not need to seek her out with information regarding her new team.

Not to mention there was also the matter of-

It pinched her heart whenever she thought of it. What had happened, how, and how he was going to take care of it now. He lost his occupation, what he did for so long. He still had Sachi to provide for. Both Kuni and Ryu were there to help, but that didn't mean they would always be there. Both of them were shinobi, after all. They had missions and trainings they would go on. Even if the money wouldn't be a problem, she already saw it at home. It was taking him longer to do some things. It was hindering him. Not that Sachi seemed to notice much. But she had. And it pained her, but she didn't want for him to see it. She didn't want him to feel as though she was pitying him.

Walking with her hands in her pockets, she kept walking for a bit longer before finally reaching the locked door to the former "Sadako's Raining Tea Library", which she had fixed before she departed to Konoha. The fact it was locked this time meant that perhaps whoever sabotaged the place last time felt like his job was done, as the place had closed down. Somehow, the graffiti that had been on the window before was gone. Perhaps some good samaritan that hid among those who dared do nothing.

Unlocking the door, she quickly went inside and allowed the door to close behind her as the entrance bell gave its light ring. Looking around, the place was still the same as before she departed. One of the former employees, Yuri, had insisted on helping taking care of the insects that roamed the kitchen one last time before he accepted the last payment that Kuni gave him and the others.

Locking the door behind her, she looked around. A lot of chairs and tables were still in pieces from the time of the inspection, and the place had gained a lot of dust. Sniffing lightly from the amount of dust, she turned on the lights inside to get a better look of the place. The layer of dust that gathered in over a month was rather clear to notice, and she realized she had forgotten to gather all of the furniture that had been taken apart into a single area, to allow for better and quicker arranging and taking care of those, once she was done with cleaning the place.

Bringing all of the taken apart furniture to one corner of the room was, evidently, not very possible, and she ended up needing to spread the pieces across half of the back wall of the place. The people who gave the place its 'rework' certainly made sure it would be hard to put it back together. And it was also a bit time consuming, as by the time she was done with that bit, Kuni discovered another hour had already passed by. And knowing she needed to be at the training facility the following day for another...something with her new team meant she had a limited amount of time to spend here.

Going into the kitchen, she took out some cleaning supplies from one of the bottom cabinets. With most of the mess being put aside for the time being, it was finally possible to begin cleaning up the place. Filling up a bucket with partial water and some soap in it, Kuni grabbed it. As she carried it over to the main room, she spilled a bit on her leg and couldn't help but think of how cold the water was. As shivers went up her spine, she realized that sensation in the place felt almost like deja-vu. Just almost.

Putting the bucket on the floor and dropping the rest of the supplies next to it, Kuni just looked at her wet leg for what seemed like a long moment, as she couldn't help but recall something from what seemed like a very long time ago.

At Hanako's care

Grabbing a bucket of water that was about half her size and felt rather heavy, the young girl decided to put it on her head as she went to the main room slowly "Look mom! I'm holding it with my he-"

The girl wouldn't finish her sentence as she would lose her balance, the bucket would flip and all the water would end up on the girl and the floor surrounding her. The bucket itself also landed on the girl's head. Her mom, who had a mop leaning next to her, quickly went to her daughter's side.

"Yoshikuni, what did I tell you about trying out things like these in the store?" Hanako spoke in a gentle tone as she removed the bucket from her daughter's head. She was a bit surprised to see what kind of expression her daughter had. She thought it might be one of pain, as the girl had landed on her rear and a bucket landed on her head, but instead Yoshikuni had a large smile on her face.

"I'm sorry mom! I won't do it again, but it was fun!" The young Sadako called out, making Hanako laugh lightly. Helping Yoshikuni stand, she soon gained a concerned look as her daughter begun shivering and her expression changed into a more pained one "I'm c-c-c-cold m-mom." Yoshikuni said while clearly feeling very cold, as even her teeth chattered.

Without saying a word, Hanako quickly went to one of the shelves, where she had stacked up a bunch of plain white towels. Grabbing one, without caring for how the others looked afterward, she quickly went and wrapped it around Yoshikuni. Taking a hold of her daughter's hand, Hanako gave a gentle smile before they stepped out. It wasn't raining, but it was a rare cloudy but windless day. The two sat down at a small bench that had its back to "Sadako's Silks", and Hanako wrapped her arms around Yoshikuni. She began rubbing the towel around her daughter, and the young girl begun laughing from the sudden movements of the towel.

Looking up at Hanako, she saw the gentle and caring smile of her mom and couldn't help but feel happy.

After recalling that memory, Kuni couldn't help but smile. It reinvigorated her, and she grabbed a hold of the cleaning supplies once more. This was once her mom's place of work. The place she spent a lot of her time prior to becoming a shinobi at. Her second home. She wanted to make sure the place will get the right treatment, the kind it deserved. She began working on cleaning the furniture and going over the book covers with gentle touches, to remove the dust from those too, but not ruin them by accident.

Not seeing how much time has passed, Kuni found herself noticing the light had weakened and the street lights were on. Wiping away some sweat from her brow, she continued to clean for a bit longer. With the floor, bookshelves and books being done, Kuni still needed to do the remaining functioning furniture, the walls and the ceiling. And that was all without looking into the kitchen as well. Glancing at the cleaning supplies briefly, she doubted she had enough, but decided to keep on going anyway. If she needed more supplies, she could spend some money to get some more.

As she began going over the walls, Kuni wondered if perhaps she should try approaching one of the former employees for help. Yuri seemed less than happy when he realized what happened, and Sho appeared rather displeased as well. Deli was mostly disappointed at what happened, but both Yuri and Deli had told her she can keep in touch in case the place opens up once more. Yuri said he enjoyed the little kitchen that was set up and how the place wasn't super crowded, while Deli seemed to appreciate a job that didn't require much physical effort. Sho had offered before that she could use a part of his cut to bring the place back together, but back then she didn't know how much time she would have being around.

Going over the wall with a brush, gently stroking it up and down, she realized that she should've started with the ceiling and walls before doing the floor, as now all the dust will drop onto the floor she had just cleaned. Pausing for a moment, Kuni felt somewhat silly now, as she essentially added more work that she didn't have to add if she thought about it right. Shaking her head, Kuni figured there was no going back now as she resumed stroking the walls and removing the dust from them.

---

By the time she was done with the first wall, the only light that remained outside was that of the street lights. People had tapped on the window and door for an hour, either with a questioning expression or to give a rude expression, but she just kept on working, not responding to those. Upon hearing another set of knocks, this time on the door, she moved her sight and she couldn't help but feel surprised. Dropping the brush, Kuni went to the door with hastened steps and unlocked it, allowing the person who stood outside to come in.

"Working hard huh?" came the question as the young, female adult entered with a smile. Deli was carrying a pair of bags, filled with different things, and looked around at the place "Certainly looks like you have been going at it. It seemed like you vanished for some time. Did you go anywhere?" She asked, moving to put the bags on one of the tables as she kept looking around.

Locking the door behind her, Kuni scratched her head for a moment "I was out of town for over a month, yeah. Only now I finally got around to taking a look at the place after some time. How have you been?" She returned a question while going to grab the brush and resume cleaning the walls "Heard anything from Yuri either?" She added yet another question.

Deli turned to look at Kuni and shrugged "I've been managing. Worked a couple of small jobs and also babysitting a bunch. And I have heard from Yuri, yeah. Kinda hard not to when he keeps asking me to find him a date." She said with a slight roll of her eyes "Poor guy lacks confidence when it comes to that area. I know he went back to working at his parent's place, the ramen place that's close to shinobi academy." Deli added, grabbing one of the functioning chairs in the place and cleaning the dust off before sitting down in it.

"Looking for someone to date, heh." Kuni smirked as she heard that bit. As she thought about what both had been doing, she stopped going over the wall with the brush "I'm glad to hear you managed to keep at it." She said with a softer tone. Deciding that for today it was enough, she grabbed a hold of the other cleaning supplies before walking into the kitchen.

Arranging all the cleaning supplies back in their place, Kuni went out and saw Deli had stood up and grabbed her bags once more, understanding Kuni was done for the day and was about to close it.

Walking outside and locking the door, Kuni felt glad she decided to come here and do this. It felt productive and good. She turned to Deli, who gave her an apologetic smile "I know you go that way while I need to go this way. Try and keep and touch, and let me know if the place opens up again. Even if I won't work here again, I would like to see it open again. It had a nice vibe to it." Deli said. Kuni nodded and the two waved to each other before beginning to walk in their own, seperate directions.

It wasn't how she expected it to end up, but it certainly ended up feeling like a good day so far, Kuni thought to herself before putting her hands in her pockets and beginning to hum a soft tune.
[/spoili][/fieldbox]

 

[FrostedCaramel]

[fieldbox="Operation Winter Hunters - Hanaguro Team, Orange"]Yamada Suzu "Rabbit" & Ino Namikaze | Akinian Empire, Near the Pink District of Hanaguro

---

A flashback post of an interrogation from before the Clan meeting and following feast. Written between @Nim, @Gerontis, and the Frostiest of Camels.

Suzu and Ino question the guards they had captured during the scuffle in the alley with Team 4 and their new found ally. They garner a good bit of useful information on the Zealots and their operations.

---

[spoili]

It smelled awful in the place they were currently in, and with no breeze or sound of wind, it was easy to say the stench would remain. Both 'guard's would have their eyes covered and mouth stuffed with cloth that was also tightly tied around their head. Each 'guard' was almost hanging from the ceiling of the room, with their hands being tied with rope and separate from one another. Their legs had been bound to the floor with kunai and rope, tight enough to see it was putting some pressure on the leg.

Moving towards one of the captive 'guards', Ino would stuff his ears with pieces of cloth, making it that much more difficult for him to hear anything, before she approached the second 'guard' and grabbed his head "I'm going to take off the mouth cover now, as I want to have a little talk with you, regarding that meeting you helped cover." She told the man before taking off the mouth cover, fully expecting a folly of shouts for help, or perhaps of swearing at her and Suzu. Regardless of what the outcome is, she knew it would be futile.

Suzu was leaning against the wall behind both of the men, nodding off as she waited for her turn in the interrogation process. She had advocated for some intense genjutsu illusions to start off, break their will as quickly as possible, yet Ino had argued otherwise. After a little bit of back and forth Suzu had relinquished her idea and agreed to go at the men after Ino tried a bit softer methods. She tilted her head as Ino stuffed the one man's ears with cotton and rolled her neck. She was a little excited for what was to come, it was making her slightly jittery and she couldn't help but to run through possibilities of what she could do to them to get them to talk.

The man's eyes narrowed for a moment. When the gag was taken off, the man simply spat on the ground in front of him. "You both can wrap your lips around my spear." The man said, his body language shouting defiance. "Instead of wasting on talk, just get it bloody over with it!"

Seeing how the man immediately reacted with spitting, Ino glanced over at Suzu briefly, wondering if perhaps she was right with her suggestion to go with the genjutsu illusions. But as she was given some room to try and talk first, she figured she wouldn't immediately give up "Wrap our lips around your spear? I don't think we got there just yet. But that is an interesting suggestion." She said and let go of the man's head, taking out a kunai and walking to the still gagged man, who could not hear a word "Maybe we could let your comrade here eat this little kunai? Or perhaps I could use this kunai and make him eat your spear? Which one seems like a better option to you?" She turned to look at Suzu, while seemingly toying with the kunai.

"Or perhaps you just don't care about your comrade here and wouldn't mind if I do this." Ino said before hearing a response from either of them and suddenly pressed the kunai against the gagged man's shoulder blade, and went up and across the shoulder, leaving a decent cut.

The threat that Ino replied with, at first, didn't gain more than the man scoffing lightly. When the woman pulled out a kunai, the eyes of the guard narrowed. His breathing became faster in pace but he remained silent. There was a small reaction when Ino slashed the man's comrade, who let out a muffled grunt. "Go ahead bitch. So far I understand, we are dead anyways. Whatever you think you can do pales in comparison to what they can do. So save yourself the effort and time, sweetheart. Either use that knife or go back to the kitchen!"

"You know, I've heard that line many times before. That anything I can do pales in comparison to what they can do. But here is what people never seem to understand, or think about." Ino said as she sliced another cut across the gagged's man shoulder "Seeing something from the side and experiencing it on yourself are two completely different things." She said, taking the bloody kunai away from the gagged man, before approaching the guard who spoke to her so far, forced his mouth open and let a few drops of blood go straight into it "Now, I can't say what they can do. But I know what I can do. And right now, I can begin toying around with you for some time, at least until I let my partner take over. But honestly, I have no intention of stalling any further than need be." She said as she let go of the man's jaw and then put the kunai against the gagged's man neck.

"That was a taste of what I can think of doing. And I doubt anyone would enjoy being forced to eat their own comrade. Past experiences tell me no one does." She said with a cold voice.

Suzu wasn't sure what Ino was getting at . She had been sure that she was going to be doing some talking with them, not destroying what little chance they had of building a rapport with the guards. She watched the gagged man as his arms leaked blood from the gashes Ino had left and inwardly sighed. She removed the jacket she was wearing and ripped it into long strips before she'd move to the bleeding man. Not paying attention to what Ino was still up to she'd begin to wrap the bleeding guards wounds rather tightly with a sorry little smile on her face as he watched her in confusion. 'A dead man tells no tales afterall.' she thought to herself as she finished with the wrappings and moved back to her place on the wall. They were quickly blood soaked but they at least appeared to have slowed down the flow considerably.

The guard's eyes narrowed. "Hollow words. Just get it on with then!" The man sneered back. "I bet you can't draw the knife. Go on then. Prove me right, bitch." The guard further sneered, his cheeks starting to get a red taint that would slowly spread.

After noticing Suzu covered up the injuries she inflicted on the second guard, Ino listened to the teasing of the man. It was clear that he was calling he was calling her bluff, but she had no intention of letting him know he was right. Moving a bit away from the gagged guard, Ino would kneel down next to the body of another guard that had fought in the battle and died there. Putting the kunai against the gagged's man leg, she would press it while putting her hand inside an open wound, grabbing onto the first organ she could feel. Removing the kunai from the man's leg, Ino would use it to cut the small kidney loose before standing up.

Walking to the man, Ino would press on the jaw of the man once more, forcing it open before putting the kidney inside and forcing it shut "Shall we try this again? Or do you want another taste?" Ino said as she walked over, grabbed another slice from the ripped jacket and covered the fresh wound she had given the gagged man.

"Knew it. You girls should stop playing around. This is pathetic." The man said, in a most spiteful fashion. When Ino cut a small kidney loose and proceeded to shove it into the man's face, muffled sounds resonated from the man. When Ino proceeded to ask the question, the man was still coughing and spitting out blood and bits. Panting slightly, he spat towards Ino.

The response made it clear that he still wasn't willing to answer anything, but at the same time, it did show just how dedicated the man was to their cause. Perhaps a different approach would be better after all. Turning to Suzu, she gave her a nod before moving towards the door. Knowing Rabbit was probably still planning on using Genjutsu, she didn't want to be in the room to suffer from the genjutsu too, and she left the room with minimal noise of the door.

Watching with a measure of curiosity as Ino removed a kidney from the corpse she had brought Suzu would find herself surprisingly not as interested in watching the act that was forced upon the guard by her companion. When Ino moved out of the room and left the first guard panting and spitting Suzu would remain behind them for awhile. Letting the minutes stretch on as she simply waited behind them where neither could see her. She wondered what she'd have to do to get the man Ino had just been speaking with to talk and settled on going with what she had originally expected Ino to pursue in the first place.

She would walk to the corner of the room still behind the two men and grab the small chair that they had placed in the room earlier. She moved to the front of the two men and arrayed herself to be sitting centered between them both about a meter away. She took a little to survey the two men. The cut and bleeding one seemed to be struggling to deal with the pain, and the one who'd just been fed appeared more than a little pale as well. She tilted her head to the side and pointed at the guard Ino had been speaking with before, "She's not the nicest person I've met," Suzu pointed a thumb to the door, "odd methods if you ask me." she said as she would recline back in her seat and pull a small sweet from her pocket. Suzu would take a bite of the food, something she'd picked up off the street from a vendor earlier in the day and chew on the bite thoughtfully.

"I have to say though," she was pointing at the man with the half eaten sweet, "good on you for staying quiet. I admire people with conviction like you." she took another bite and waved the snack around. "It's a shame really that you're on their side, you know?"

Watching how Ino left, the guard threw some half-understandable sneers at her address. Now that he was alone with the other woman, the guard didn't drop his hostility and guard. Hearing what Suzu said reaped a bit of confusion but the man remained silent. "Don't play this silly game. If you girls don't have the stomach to endure through then just finish it. I have been in the guard for years. Questioning me with good guard and bad guard is a bit futile now."

Suzu frowned at the man's response, it appeared he had misunderstood, "Oh no, you don't seem to be following correctly. She was the nice cop." Suzu said with a smile, "At least that was the plan." she admitted with a shrug. She took another bite and dropped the rest of the sweet on the floor in front of the guard, "You say years huh?" she raised an eyebrow, "What exactly gets a man of honorable service such as yourself to betray his country so quick hmm? Money? Women?" she leaned forward slightly, "Power? What was it that turned your service so quickly? That you were willing to give up your honor for?"

The man spat on the ground once more. From his grimace, it was clear it wasn't to try to still get rid of the awful iron state of what Ino had shoved into his mouth. "Shitty role job if you ask me." He worked out out of his mouth. Throwing a glance at his comrade, who still was in pain, the guard lifted his chin by a bit. "Just get it over with. I either talk or die. Or I don't talk and die. Judging from how you guys handle your shit is that you are kunoichi? Intelligence Division?"

She shrugged and raised her hands innocently, "You got me." she smiled, she followed his gaze over to his friend who still couldn't hear or see anything, "Your friend here? Am I safe to assume he's your friend?" she asked, "He's holding up pretty well. Although I could change that. But you can also change that." she turned her attention back to the man, "I want to know why you betrayed the Empire. Simple really, what made you into a changecoat? Why did you throw away your ten years of service hmm?" she stood up and wandered over to the still gagged man. Walking around him slowly as she ran a finger around his body.

His eyes narrowed when Suzu placed her attention to the other guard. "Don't dance around the bush. If you got any kind of mercy, you just end it. Him first, if you got the dignity to not keep a man suffering like that." His tone became different, the pitch giving away that his anger was on the rise. "Unless you're a fucking Imperial dog. Thinking you're better. I bet that if you had any guts, you would just free me and then we will see who is the better."

An interesting proposition. To fight the guard. But not one she would take, "Sadly not something my partner would be alright with, otherwise I would." she became quiet and stopped in front of the gagged and blinded guard. She pulled a kunai from the pouch at her side and played with it between her fingers, rolling it along before stopping. She placed it back in the pouch and walked to the man she'd been talking with. She would reach into her pocket and pull out cotton. Stuff his ears and gag and blindfold him. She untied his hands and let him down from the rope hard. As his head was no doubt still ringing from the impact she would bind his hands and drag him to the door where she'd open it and toss him out, giving Ino a nod that she needed to keep a close eye on him.

She closed the door and moved to the man still in the room. She drew her kunai once more and ran it over his skin lightly, leaving only small cuts as she ran it up to his neck and began to press it in close. She held it there for a while as she talked to the empty room so the man would hear the mumbles of a conversation before she'd pull it away and go back to take a seat in her chair. She would leave the room and tell Ino she was going out to get food and to keep them separated before disappearing down the hall.

Probably almost five hours later Suzu would return to the room with a bag of hot food, she opened the door and was happy to find that the second man was still bound and completely blind to the world. She would walk up to him, placing the food on the chair she had used earlier, and remove his gag and blindfold before pulling the cotton from his ears and dropping it all on the ground. "Well now we can talk with you." she said said happily as she would pick up the bag and take a seat on the chair. She pulled a hot bun from the bag and took a bite, the meats and vegetables inside mixing well and the aroma it released giving away just how good it was, "Hungry? I've got plenty." she said as she motioned to the bag at her side.

The question was first met with the man coughing softly. Clearing his throat, it was clear that the man was feeling anything but safe. Slowly the question of before dawned in, aided by the aroma of the food. "I am." He slowly answered, as if his life depended on that particular answer.

Suzu nodded to the man and stood up. She reached her hand into the bag and pulled out a small bladder of water. She walked to the man and raised his chin up gently with a hand before raising the drink to his lips. She would hold it there for a short period before taking it back, "Don't want you to get sick now." she said before placing the water back in the bag and pulling out another small bun. She would raise this too up to his face and hold it close enough he could get a few bites.

A soft sigh escaped the man after he received some water. Munching on a few bites, it became clear that he was looking for something. Or somebody. Clearing his mouth, his eyebrows perked up. The scent of blood was evident and it was anything but settling. "Where are the others?" He decided to ask.

She looked around the room as if the answer were somewhere there before turning her attention to the undone ropes swinging slowly next to the man, "Your friend talked." she stated matter-of-factly. She took a seat and shrugged, "He gave up fighting after a while, and told us what we wanted." she smiled and leaned forward, "We sent him out, he's getting a real meal and he has a bed now too, not some dingy room like this, being held up by your arms and legs...." Suzu raised a question on her face, "But we need to make sure what he told us is true. That he's not lying." she pointed at him, "That's where you come in. You help me here? I'll help you when this is all over, and I'll be sure to keep the one that did that," she motioned with her head at the bandages on him, "away from you."

The news that his buddy had talked seemed to shock the guard. For a moment, it was evident that he didn't trust the information. Or more so that he didn't want to accept it. "And how much can I trust your word? No offense but I don't think that I can trust who decide to wound me." The man grumbled, though his tough words held a sliver of hesitation.

Suzu sighed and pointed at the bandages, "And who do you think bandaged you? It wasn't the one that cut you I'll tell you that much." she smiled again and stood up, moved close to the man placed an arm on his shoulder, "I'll tell you something, and maybe it'll change your mind." she brushed the side of the man's face and moved away again taking a seat, "He told us you have the Jinchurikii. You confirm what he told us about that?" she motioned to the bag at her feet and pointed up at the ropes holding him to the ceiling, "I'll get you down from there, clean you up a little, and you can get a good meal in your stomach. Depending on how much you confirm of course." she placed a hand under her chin and waited for the guards response.

The man still showed hesitation to trust Suzu. But he didn't say or do anything to go against it. A second of silence followed Suzu's words. Then he slowly nodded. "We did. A young boy. Spoke with a certain accent. Bit of a scrawny kid." He said.

"Go on then." she said as she would begin to loosen the ropes around his hands, "And don't get any bright ideas." she said as she would let the man down slowly to his knees. She held the bag out of reach though, and his legs were still bound to the ropes. "Water is next, so go on. I need to know that your friend wasn't lying. And if he was? Well you can imagine what will happen to him then. So I'd be sure you're remembering your facts correctly, don't want to say something that doesn't match up." she smirked at him and watched.

Once more he nodded, some of the previous tension starting to ebb away. "The kid was brought to us. We kept him safe. Fed and took a bit care of the kid. Made sure that the chakra blocker stayed around his neck. He didn't talk much. Then we received instructions to prepare him for the next transport. He got picked up, we got our reward." The guard further said. His eyes briefly going to the bag.

A chakra blocker. It made sense, especially for a jinchuriki to have one put on. He didn't talk much… "You say he didn't talk much?" Suzu pulled the water from the bag and held it out in front of the man, "What did he say when he did talk?" she raised an eyebrow and held her little smile.

A bit of shame became evident on the man's features as he couldn't look Suzu in the eyes. "He asked if we could let him go. Send a message to his folk. He briefly spoke something about wanting to leave just one message for his mentor. But we weren't allowed. Else we would suffer a similar fate." Was the man's answer. Taking the water, the man took a swig.

She tilted her head to the side and wondered who Tatsuya had tried to write a message to. She knew of the boy, if only due to her position, but she didn't know much about him other than the fact he was the host of the Kyuubi. She pointed at the water, "Good right? Fresh and cold from a local well." she said before leaning in a bit further, "And where are they taking him?" she asked, "Answer these next few questions and the food and a bed are yours." she assured him with a nod and a smile.

The man nodded as response to Suzu's first question, regarding the water. The following questions were met with the man frowning. "I honestly don't know. You need to ask somebody else for that. I was only put to guard the kid. Promised a hefty reward and possible chance on promotion within the city guard." The man answered, his guard slightly lowering. "I know that they did bring a cart. So I assume that they were trying to move him out of the city."

She nodded along as he talked and would frown a little when he said he wasn't sure where they were taking the boy. She felt a small part of annoyance rising when it became evident that the city guard had been infiltrated at a rather high level if they were offering promotion to the guard for his actions, "And what of the girl? Your friend told us about her too." she said as she would lightly shake the bag of food in front of him.

"The girl," he repeated, mumbling. "Ah yeah. Some others were assigned to watch over a girl. From what I heard, she had a chakra blocker as well. Talk about that her eyes could prove to be dangerous if not wearing the collar." The man answered. "But I never seen her nor was I assigned to watch over her."

"Her eyes? Your friend touched on that too. Any idea what was dangerous about them?" Suzu wasn't sure what they meant. Could have been a sharingan or a byakugan but she couldn't know for sure if it was something more obscure. She kept note to touch back on who they had met with after this was done. She rattled the bag again.

"Not sure. I don't tend to ask questions. I took my orders and accepted the pays." The man casually stated. His eyes moved to the bag, for a moment he paused. "Other than that, I know nothing of the girl."

Suzu sighed and held the bag out to the man, "Same thing your friend told us." she reinforced the idea that he had already spilled everything. "So about the man you had met in the alleyway. Your friend told us you don't fuck with him, and for good reason. I need to know he wasn't lying. Who is this man? Why are you so afraid of him?" she would ask, giving him time to eat if he wanted before answering.

"Cause miss," a certain fear became present on the man's features as he briefly closed his eyes. "He could make the dead rise. Praise God, I saw him skewering poor Hitomo. And a few seconds later, he stood up. He was still dead, as if a mere puppet. We..." a sudden realisation kicked in. "If one of us were to talk, they would do the same to us. And then to our families. That man isn't a man. I don't know. Might very well be the demons that the priests always whine about."

Suzu contained herself as the man spoke. He could raise the dead, and didn't seem to be a human in the slightest. To her it was nothing that sounded crazy. The Zealots could do some crazy things. Turning into giant beasts, worshiping an unknown deity, and now raising the dead. It seemed to fit. And the man not being human could have explained some of the things he had done in the alley. She'd read a report of a beast that the Lightning Country nin had faced during an ambush, surely that didn't appear to have been a human, and if anything the Zealots were obviously linked to what was happening in the East. Perhaps they had other more terrifying beasts at their disposal, ones more intelligent than the one in the report.

"A shame really." she agreed as the man finished, "That you drag your innocent family into all of this… And for what? Why'd you turn?" she was frowning at him as she spoke.

It stayed silent for a few seconds. "I turned because I was promised a better future. I got four children. One son and three daughters. I want to be able to provide for them, each. You probably know how it is if you got any daughters yourself. You got to pay for their dowry, got to make sure that they marry the right man. Somebody who also can can provide for her. With a small dowry, that won't be possible." He explained, his head lowering in defeat and shame. "I just did it for the sake of my own kids."

She nodded along, seeming to understand what the man was saying, "Unfortunate you had to do it this way." she said as he would eat, "I'm going to need a list from you." she stated, clear there was no option of denying the request. She produced a sheet of paper and a pencil and placed it in front of the man.

Chewing on his bite, the man glanced at the paper and pencil. Slowly he stopped eating. "I will give the names. And locations. On one condition," he locked his eyes on Suzu. "I reckon that I got to pay with my head for treason. But I want my family out of this. If you can arrange that, I will give up all the names and locations that I am aware of."

Suzu wasn't sure what she could promise the man. Certainly not that. But she could always alter a few reports, have him have lost his life fighting in the alley against his turncoat brothers, not sitting here a day after the fact betraying the men he had betrayed the country with. At least the official records would state that. The real ones would always have him listed a traitor, his family would never be able to pursue certain careers because of him, his kids would never become officers in the military or join a more secretive organization. He wanted them saved, spared from his mistake. There was only so much she could do for him, "I'll do what I can. Publically we can have you branded a death in the line of duty. Keep this all under wraps. But the real paperwork will know what you are. You've closed doors for your children that would have remained open otherwise." she frowned and nodded to the paper, "Good enough or do you want more?"

The response made the guard sigh, his hands moving to the side of his head. He considered his options in this moment. He looked up at Suzu, wanting to ask something. But then he considered something. And slowly nodded. "I doubt I can ask for more." There was a sliver of bitterness in his voice. "Guarantee me this and I will give you the information."

Suzu nodded and frowned again, "I can guarantee what I just said up until the point someone higher than me takes possession of you. My word is just that. It's my word. But it's the best your family is going to get." she reiterated, "You are a traitor after all. A deal with a traitor is rather rare, even at as low a level as this." she motioned to their derelict room.

He slowly nodded. "I understand. But it is the best that I can do, right now." Was his response, mumbling. The complexion of the man turned slightly pale as the realization of his treason became clearer with the second. Weighing down upon him. Picking up the pencil, the man started to scribble down some names of people and locations. Once done, he calmly laid down the pencil and moved slowly away from the pencil and paper.

She watched and smiled as he seemed to begin to write down names of people in Hanaguro and locations of God knows what within the city relating to the Zealots. She wound kneel down in front of the man and take the paper and pencil from him. She gave him a nod and smile, "You've done a great service today. Perhaps your God will see it fit to forgive you when you meet him." she stated as she would rise and move to the door. She opened it and motioned for Ino to bring back in the other man.

The man slowly nodded, almost absent-mindly. When she opened the door, he noticed his comrade. For a moment, confusion was present. Then it dawned on him. His eyes widened as he turned to Suzu. His lips parted but he couldn't produce any sound. "You fucking bitch, you..." His gaze went to the other man.

Suzu turned to watch as the man finally connected the dots of what had transpired, "Ah ah ah." she said as she waved a finger at him, "Don't make me take back my word. Think about your family now. Now more than ever." she said as she'd drag the second man back into the room and tie him back up. She pulled the gag from his mouth and removed the blindfold and cotton in his ears. She stepped back far enough that he couldn't spit at her and smiled, "Welcome back." she nodded, "Your buddy was nice enough to help us out." she said the smile only growing on her face.

"You lied!" He hissed. The first guard stared at the second. Then he started to scream, violently moving and trying to break out of his bonds.

"Idiot! Fool! They will kill both our families! You doomed us! That thing will have their soul! I am going to rip you apart! Fucking idiot!"

The first guard kept shouting, almost foaming at his mouth as veins started to bulge. The second guard turned pale, as if he already was at death's door. The breathing of the second guard became irregular.

"You two! You damned kunoichi! God will damn you and your filthy kind! The Darkness is even too good for the likes of you! Damned, both of you!"

Suzu couldn't help as her smile grew into a twisted laugh, "I'm a bit sad your evil being won't take me. I was sort of hoping he would, sounds like he's got the far more interesting side to your story. He's not so limited in his methods," she smirked, "I like to think neither am I." she would walk up to the man on the ground and frown at him as he watched her before weaving a few handsigns. The two men would fall asleep where they were and Suzu would get to work on tying them both up and getting ready to move them with the help of Ino.

---

The two Sworn Swords would carry the men to the Intelligence Divisions headquarters within Hanaguro in the middle of the night. Being stopped at the entry by two ID Shinobi they were questioned at the end of weapons and after a brief exchange and the fetching of a far higher ranked shinobi than the entrance guards the two women would be let in at the utterance of a few choice words. They left the men in the possession of the Intelligence Division and made copies of all the information they had gotten from them on their own while giving up the originals to the shinobi. They would remain there for a day as the Intelligence Division would confirm what had been garnered from the men and gain a little more information as well as questioning Suzu and Ino.

The two Sworn Swords would be released with the extra information the Intelligence Division had gathered and a promise from the head of the Intelligence Division to do everything in his power for the family of the guard who had spilled the information, the first guard was to be tossed to the dogs so to speak. They turned for a set of stables and a way back to Konoha.[/spoili][/fieldbox]