[fieldbox=A new start, lightgreen]
Etsu Yabut.

Jounin-squad leader of Team 22
South of Amegakure - Capital of the Rain Province, in the Empire of Akino.
The leader of the Tough Rats.



She didn't care for his look. With her hands at the back of her head, Etsu leaned against the wall. It remained silent between her and Gaho. The man that served as a sort of information broker for the Tough Rats kept his glare focused on her. It had been like that ever since she had confessed what she had in mind.

"You are aware that you can create more problems?!" Gaho managed to produce, his jaws clenched upon each other. His fists were trembling and it was obvious that the man was somewhat upset about something. Etsu simply nodded.
"If you screw this up, you know what it is at stake?" Gaho's eyes narrowed.

"Let me see," Etsu closed her left eye as a faint smile crossed her lips.
"It might upset the new Amekage. Cross the police corps. Make people be less thrilled about shinobi." She summed up, pausing for a second. "But it won't, at least, create more Fang operatives. I guess that is a good thing, in any case."

"You can't just waltz in and apprehend somebody like that! Why not work this with the new Amekage?!" Gaho's voice started to tremble more. Etsu closed both eyes and shrugged.

"I don't know. I don't feel like it."
"You numbskull!" Gaho worked out, his voice cracking as if he was on the verge of exploding in rage. His face started to slowly become red.

"Oh, come on. Let us assume that something goes wrong. Sure, allegations towards the shinobi will rise. But at this point, what are the higher ups doing to debunk those accusations? Nothing. Then we got the refugees that come flooding from the west. What is done for them by our provincial government? Nothing. Not to mention the Soru insurgents and those weird Zealots. If you ask me, we would have been better off with Eiji and just one arm than the guys who are supposed to run the show these days."

"I swear, by every known god. I am going to ---"
"Go on."

Tension would quickly rise as Etsu lowered her hands and opened her eyes. Locking her stare with Gaho, she was standing still but ready to get moving. Gaho lowered his head and shook.

"I know I am asking for a lot. But if you can arrange this for me, I guarantee that I can break into the place. The police corps will not know what, how or who before the next day. Besides, I won't kill or harm anybody that isn't proven to be in league with the Zealots or insurgents. I just need this one favour Gaho."

The man kept looking away, crossing his arms slowly.
"If this ends up in a failure, we all might get arrested. I imagine that most of us will manage to go underground. Unless the Imperial ID will be pulled in. Then we are more roasted than the breakfast of some pompous clan leader." He turned his head towards Etsu. "You sure you want to pull this rope?"

Etsu slowly nodded. She had some doubts but so far things were pointing out that there was a corrupt element in the police corps. And it had to be eradicated quickly and in a smooth fashion. Before the insurgents or Zealots could make use of such an advantage. Certainly with the public opinion not being in the favour of the provincial forces, who hadn't been the best to quell the problems that the Zealots and insurgents had caused.
"Besides, at worst, we just become kick-ass vigilantes. That is if weren't already something like that. Perhaps we should get some flashier uniforms and nicknames?"

The glare returned fast on Gaho's features. The old man was far from amused.
"By the divine rain, I swear you will be my death. Get out! I will do this but then you owe me, Etsu! Then you owe me!"

Etsu winked with her left eye and flashed a grin.
"Don't worry, I will make sure that you get to rock some whore's bed! Maybe even t--" she was unable to finish her sentence as a mug was thrown towards her head.



Standing outside, Etsu observed the complex. From the balcony of the tall tower, she had some good view on the building that was the headquarters of the police corps in the province. The dark raincoat provided both protection from the rain as from possible spotters.
From what Etsu could spot from her position was that there were layers of defence and security. There was a wall that provided the first defence. It was manned by light-armed and armoured personnel. Towers rose from each corner, having good visual on the courtyards and surrounding. If anything, it was more of a small fort than a mere headquarters.

Then there were the checkups that were out of visual. With also gates that would blockade easy access into the complex and various wings. Being somewhat familiar with the complex had to do with the few times that Etsu had to go in. If she remembered it correctly and they hadn't changed anything, they would have to pass five layers of security. The outer wall and its guards. Then the first gate into the complex. And then three passages to get to the office of the police chief.

"I think I can use Rini and Kitana for sensory and getting past the 'easy' blockades. Kuni might prove to be useful in covering our backs. Or should I keep her out? I can't have it that a jinchuriki just goes beserk while this all goes down."
Etsu thought about it and then decided on something. But first...



Arriving home, she had taken a small detour. To see if there was a mission given to her. Luckily there wasn't. But there was a new genin assigned to her squad. Which made Etsu frown. It wasn't unheard of that a fourth member was assigned to a team. But Etsu wasn't a big fan of newcomers while she was planning one of the riskiest heists in the history of Amegakure. Hell, probably even all of the Rain province!

"Well, let us see who this genin is," Etsu mumbled to herself as she started to study the profile. Though she wanted to do it tomorrow, she was supposed to bring the record back as soon as possible. The information was, after all, handwritten. It would be a sore pain in the rear for whoever had to rewrite the evaluation of a genin. Imagine the sheer dread of rewriting the total evaluation of a jounin, Etsu thought to herself.

Megumi Omari. The name Omari wasn't really that unknown. At least, the name. Clans weren't really Etsu's thing. She was aware of some Rain clans and prominent clans in most countries. But they had never piqued her interests. This Megumi seemed as the typical genin. Young and inexperienced. "Yeah Etsu, what a shocker."
Apparently, Megumi wasn't born an Omari though. Biological wise, she was part of the Kurosawa clan. Adopted by Chu Omari, she became an adopted member of the Omari. Which amused Etsu slightly. Adoption was widely accepted, that much she knew. But some people laid a big importance on blood. But Etsu wouldn't give a dime about it.

The evaluation of the genin's personality made Etsu frown. She wasn't big on the fact that this genin was so fond of justice. Hopefully, those guys that did the checks had it wrong. That or the Academy needed to kick up their standards.
Browsing through the background, Etsu wasn't that much interested in the background. What was more important at the moment was what Megumi could do. What her worth would be on missions, right from the start.
The first that jumped out was Megumi’s bloodline ability. Something that would forever mark the girl as a Kurosawa. And that wasn’t just Etsu’s opinion. She was well aware how clans could be quite keen on keeping bloodline abilities within their sphere of influence as control.
Reading further, Etsu couldn't spot much else that made her regard the genin as a vital support for the coming plan. But this Megumi was a genin. And sometimes they could be quite surprising.



The note had been delivered by Etsu personally. Instructing her team to meet up at Tani's Basket. An establishment that orientated on weaving baskets. The note didn't notify what the mission was or would be. Or that they would work with a new person right from the get go. But Etsu doubted that it would be a huge problem. A bag hang at her back, filled with some 'necessities'.[/fieldbox]
 
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[fieldbox="No Escape, Teal, solid"]
Empire of Akino
Amegakure- Team 19
Part 2
Summary: The final part to Team 19's mission of leading the captives to the Police Barracks. Yet not all things go according to plan.


[spoili]Hearing Kona’s prisoner scoff, Ryu rolled her eye in annoyance at the rowdy prisoner. Thankful that her own had limited himself to only one comment so far. Then the rest of his words struck home and the girl’s eye opened wide for a second before she bit down on her lip to keep from responding to the man. As he continued to taunt her, even mentioning her father, the girl’s lip would start to bleed slightly from her biting it. She shoved her prisoner forward, much rougher than needed as all she could think of was that shitstain even daring to mention poor Sugu. As she started to move forward with a tight grip on her prisoner’s arm, she shot a glare across the room towards the prisoner. The three tomoe design that the Uchiha’s sharingan was known for replaced by yet another design as all she could think about at the moment was the desire to hurt that prisoner.

But then she saw the look of disgust and disdain on her teammate’s face, and that yanked Ryu back to reality. It hurt, yes, but helped her refocus on the task at hand as she turned away to concentrate on ensuring her prisoner was taken in as per sensei’s orders. She took a shaky breath in an attempt to calm herself, it simply wouldn’t do to seem completely unprofessional.

Kona did not visibly react outwardly to the revelation from the prisoner. Fascinating discoveries are certainly being made today... Kona thought. Kona tried to force the man forward like Ryu had. Though his tongue was dangerous, it wouldn’t matter at this particular moment. However, the man resisted her. Kona’s temper began to rise as she tried, unsuccessfully, to get the man to move twice more. Each time the man refused to budge, using his weight to a disadvantage. ”Resistance is futile.” Kona warned, before trying once more, however the man resisted her for a fourth time. Instead of trying again she turned her head to Mitsunari. ”Sensei, he refuses to budge.” Kona looked at the back of the man, and a murderous thought crossed her mind for a moment, though it did not register on her face. A corpse wouldn’t resist…. Kona banished the dangerous idea quickly though.

As Ryu’s prisoner was now being even further abused after her delicate approach at the start. The man was now shooting angry looks at her as he was the shoved forward hard enough to make him lose balance and fall forward, yet with his hands bound behind his back. He had no way to lessen the impact and fell on his body and face causing him to curse out. ”Shit! Was this how you killed your sister you bitch?” The man growled as he rolled around to get himself to his knees before standing up, some blood trickling out from his nose as he continued moving on.

So far the only one giving no complaints besides a dirty look towards his captor was Yone, at one point he just stared at her as she shoved him along. Almost as if he was debating something but shook his head and stared on ahead as they would leave the warehouse.

Kona’s still wouldn’t cooperate to which Kona would report this to Mitsunari who would come forward and grab the man tightly by his arm and yank him up and dragged him forward. ”I appreciate you keeping your cool, although you are going to have to learn how to manage this stuff alone one day. You can be forceful in making them move. I will say this. I’m proud you proved me wrong today Kona, it’s a good step forward in earning my respect.” Mitsunari would tell her before motioning for her to take over, in case any of the public decided to get too close to the scene. The man that was snarling before was now more so fuming to himself as he kept walking the streets.

Ryu hoped it hurt. Hauling him back to his feet, he’d earn himself another shove though this one was less aggressive than before in the hopes he would manage to stay on his feet. She kept a careful gaze on the man, confused at why he and the others seemed to be moving so slowly. It didn’t matter. She wanted to be rid of these scumbags as soon as she could. They had no right to talk about her or Sugu, not after what their people did to the Housha so recently. As they moved, Ryu wiped away some blood running down her chin from where she had bit her lip to keep from speaking out earlier. She’d have to patch that up once these men were off their hands, since it was nothing major. Ryu wouldn’t give the man any benefits of response or signs that he was getting to her beyond the bloodied lip and look of obvious anger in her eye as they walked. Hopefully these assholes would be off their hands soon enough...

Yone's eyebrows slightly rose when her captive shot her a look. Almost if she wanted to tell him that he shouldn't do it. Luckily, no words were being exchanged for Yone was sure that they would be far off from being polite. Despite the entire situation and it is their mission, the genin did wonder about something.

Why?

It wasn't like they were incompetent people from what she got so far. They didn't just move in and started to murder before. It seemed that they planned and had goals to achieve with their actions. The only thing that eluded Yone was on why. For a moment, she felt the temptation to ask it. To just try to get the idea of why they were causing this trouble. Throwing a glance at her team members, Yone caught sight of how Ryu started to treat her captive. If anything, didn't such actions only beget more violence in return? Pondering on the thought, Yone would press her hand on the man's back and started to just push him forward. But careful to not be too forceful. After all, she imagined that they had families of their own. Siblings, mothers and fathers, uncles and such. To see somebody dear being just treated like cattle through the streets? Yone felt a cold shiver down her spine.

Kona shrugged and nodded as Mitsunari took the man away, following close behind him. She beamed slightly at the praise, a flicker of joy in her eyes as she heard it. ”Thank you sensei.” She replied, quietly. Kona was silent otherwise as they walked, keeping an eye out for any trouble makers who might try and stir something up.

As they continued moving with Ryu pushing her captive still rather aggressively. After one shove, they wouldn’t see it but his facial expression changed from annoyance to anger. He glanced back too see when she was going to shove him forward again, only to push with his might backwards and getting a cheap headbutt off on her. Which is when he then took off running from Ryu instigating a new situation for her to handle. The one that caused commotion earlier debated moving but looked back and begrudgingly stood still. Yone’s looked at her and shook his head, indicating he wasn’t going to resist. She hadn’t been cruel to him, so he had no reason to make his sentence any worse. Mitsunari looked at Ryu as if to say he was getting away. Then looked at Kona and Yone. ”You know where the police barracks is. Just a few block away, if they try running, you have permission to knock them out.” Mitsunari said as he took off running after the runner.

Ryu stumbled back for a second as the prisoner suddenly slammed his head into her face. As she caught herself, she could already see him starting to move and desperately reached to grab the prisoner. Yet he was already taking off. By the time Mitsunari looked towards her, Ryu was already sprinting after her prisoner. Keeping watch of him, the Uchiha pushed herself to try and close the distance as quickly as she could. Then she'd get him back under control, or knock him the hell out. Both were valid options to the Uchiha.

Holding her hand against the man’s back, Yone threw a sideways glance at the commotion. She couldn’t do much else than to watch for she didn’t want to let her own captive make a run for it. Much to her surprise, the man threw a look at her and shook his head. Hearing what Mitsunari told them, Yone just nodded. Moving the captive forward, she was wondering if they hadn’t need to worry about more problems. Escorting the captive to the police barracks, the genin hoped that no insurgent was still in wait to pull an ambush on them. It would be a real problem if she and Kona would just be facing off against some insurgents without any real back up. Hopefully, everything would just go as planned today.

Kona was expressionless as her eyes bored into the prisoner as she pushed him forward. Rather than trust he wouldn’t run, Kona drew a length of wire out of her leg pouch and looped it around the man’s chest and waist in a few deft movements. One’s he likely wouldn’t notice unless he turned around or until the loop around his chest and waist drew taut. She wouldn’t have to be strong if he tried to run, she’d just need to maintain her grip on the wire, which was looped over her gloved hands. When he looked back she raised an eyebrow. ”No need to worry, keep moving forward.”

The two with Yone and Kona behaved for the most part, Kona’s still grumbled and kept looking to his pal in case he was ready to book it yet he seemed to have accepted his fate. That’s when the man noticed that Kona was tying something around him, and panicked a bit as he gazed back at her as she assured him that he didn’t need to worry ”Oh god she’s going to kill me…. She really is…” The man mumbled clearly not taking the wire as a good sign, mostly with her current reputation she may have stated for him to move. Yet now he was more panicky, glancing back at her quite often as he moved forward.

Meanwhile Ryu’s captive was still booking it through the streets, pushing himself to the limit to get away from the psycho woman. As he was running he made sure to cause as much hindrance as possible, weaving through people. The further he ran the more it became obvious he was running to a more populated area to lose himself in among the crowd.

As Ryu ran, she could see her captive moving in seemingly slow motion, able to read and anticipate his movements before they happened. She could also tell he was heading towards a more populated area. She’d stand a chance to less him in the crowd, like hell she would be willing to let one of these bastards get away to hurt her home like that again. Reaching into her pouch as they ran, she grasped two shuriken then slipped the tiny threads attached to it around her fingers. A process that cost a bit of time, but still it could work for her. Then she spotted her opening, a gap in the crowds that he was about to push into. Throwing the two shuriken in an upwards arc, the girl used the strings tied to her fingers to angle the weapons back down and to make a path around the front of the fleeing man. Her goal being to to pull back on the threads as they passed him, making the weapons wrap around her opponent in a move to trip him so she could catch up. Should be easier given the slow movement of the world around her, at least to her perception. She cared little for whether the shuriken stabbed into him or not, she could repair the damage from those herself.

Moving towards the barracks, Yone wondered for a moment. Throwing a glance at how Kona was doing, Yone felt a bit comfortable. Nothing was going wrong and her captive was behaving himself. She wouldn’t lower her guard though. Despite things being quite calm, there was no telling how bad a situation could get before she could drop the man off at the police. Should she then try to seek out Mitsunari and Ryu? Perhaps she should try to discuss it with Kona once they were done with their current task.

With Ryu’s captive still running, he would see the people in front of him, so just a few more feet and he could lose this persistent bitch. So as Ryu threw her shuriken, a loud no would resonate through the area not coming from the man but from Mitsunari who was catching up and witnessed Ryu toss her Shuriken. As they went up and over and descended, what she had planned would not work. The man even halted and looked back at the woman as if she was crazy. A crying sound would start blasting through the area, as the man took off running to the side. Showing that hidden in front of him was a child, with two shuriken embedded in his shoulders. His parents rushed too his side as Mitsunari looked at the fleeing man and then to Ryu. He felt his blood boiling as he grabbed Ryu by the shoulder and yanked her around. ”Police barracks now!” he shouted before shoving her in the opposite direction, these kids were going to cause him to become an alcoholic.

The two captives under Yone and Kona’s control were doing fine besides Kona’s freaking out at the wire wrapped around him. He knew her tiny frame didn’t have the power to properly hold him back if he didn't take off running as well. Yet as he eyed his friend he just looked at him and shook his head, the less trouble they made the less harsh their punishment would be as well. So he remained frightened as they would come to the police barracks where they would be able to drop off their captives and give their report to the police officers. Yet as they arrived, a couple officers burst out of the barracks in quite the rush as they ran in the direction that Yone and Kona had come from. This caused the man with wire around him to start freaking out more. ”Oh god! I knew they were going to kill us!”

----

As the three girls waited at the police barracks, where Yone and Kona had given their reports on their captives in their own words they would find themselves waiting. Ryu who had joined the two later giving her own report on what happened while Mitsunari was dealing with the mess that transpired. What seemed like a long wait would be broken as their sensei would arrive with a clearly pissed off expression as he would march up to the three girls and hold out his hand to instruct them to wait. Heading into the police barracks where moree time would pass by again, possibly half an hour at most, Mitsunari would leave the building and look at the three girls again. Rubbing his temple he would sigh as he wondered how he would go about this, the headache he would now have to deal with.

”I want to state that you three are not ready for anything high risked. This was a low risk mission and even that turned somewhat bad. Yone you did very good for your first mission you didn’t instigate any situations with your captive. Kona you need to be more careful in the next time, I was told your captive was scared shitless. If they are cooperating, then no need to make them panic by wrapping wire around them. You may have thought it was wise but you are smaller than he was. His muscle system was far more developed. If he wanted to he could have brute forced his way out, then we would have had two runners on our hand.” Mitsunari said before looking at ryu and rubbing his forehead again.

”I…. I don’t even want to know why you thought that throwing shuriken in a street with people was wise. It was far from it, you need to wait the situations out more if you don’t know what to do. So it may hurt to hear this, but as of today you are demoted back to genin until you can prove you are ready for Chuunin again. You are all dismissed.” Mitsunari said as he started to walk away, the paperwork he was going to have to do.[/spoili][/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox=A Royal meeting!, burlywood]
Kiyomi Homura approaches Team 4!

A relative lengthy collab between Alicee, Zane and Frostedcamel.

Summary:
Kiyomi interacts with Meilin, Madoc and Aoi. The four ask each other a few questions and exchange some experiences of their past. There is the idea of a spar being suggested, which might occur in the future. Even while Aoi and Meilin are already bathing in sweat of fear!


[spoili]
Managing to get her hands on another drink, Kiyomi released a soft sigh. The feast was to her liking but she was starting to grow a bit weary from all the political talks. Taking a sip of her drink, she threw a glance on if there was anybody that wouldn’t indulge into political affairs. Spotting somebody that she had just met today, Kiyomi would approach Meilin. Kiyomi noticed that there was another young woman, with blue hair, with the Cho but one of the perks as Empress was that some social etiquettes could be ignored.

"Meilin Cho, right?" Kiyomi began as she flashed a smile to the two. "I am glad you accepted my invitation. I assume that you are a member on Miss Cho’s team?" Kiyomi asked, throwing a look at the blue-haired woman.

She wasn’t entirely certain of what to think or say about the feast. It was certainly an experience alone to be in the halls of the citadel of Magnhild. So much history was written in these halls, that Meilin wasn’t sure how to try to appreciate it. There was the fact as well that there were so many prominent people present. At least, she imagined that to be the case. Most of the people were entirely unknown to her and she was feeling a bit out of place. Just when Meilin wanted to suggest that they would go and grab a drink or snack, they were approached by the empress.
”Okay, act cool. Just act cool.” Meilin whispered to Aoi.

When Kiyomi approached them, Meilin would try to perform a most gracious bow towards the young monarch. ”Yes, your Majesty. I am most honoured to be here on your invitation.”
When Kiyomi brought Aoi up, Meilin would nod. Gesturing to her team member, Meilin flashed a smile.
”This is Aoi Miyazato, your Majesty. She is a chuunin on Team 4.”

Aoi had spent the majority of the time at the feast clinging to Meilin like a lost puppy. She had no idea who most of these people were, wasn’t really of a high enough status to be here in the first place, and had no knowledge on the citadel of Magnhild past what little Meilin had told Madoc and her on the way to Magnhild itself. She understood the importance of the city itself, but the citadel, and even the clan that owned this land were complete mysteries to her past the basic everyday knowledge one could say they have on the Hons. She had been watching a woman in a particularly beautiful dress off to the side when Meilin whispered for her to stay cool. She turned in confusion to face the Cho, the forming of a question rising on her lips and her face until she noticed the young Empress approaching them. Her mind swam as the Monarch approached and she felt suddenly sick. Aoi was awestruck when the Empress directed a question to her, so much so that she almost found herself just nodding her head to the question, thankfully Meilin had had the proper idea to bow.

Aoi pressed herself down, following her teammate before she rose up after her and was introduced. She struggled to think if it was proper to introduce herself even after being introduced or whether she should just leave it at that, “Miyazato Aoi, Your Grace.” she said, reaffirming the Cho’s words, ”Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to attend.” she added to the end hastily.
The facial expression of Kiyomi shifted as she snorted and used her left hand to wave, as if the thanks wasn’t needed. "If anything, I am the one to thank you lot for bringing me the information of before. Though," Kiyomi shifted her attention on Aoi for a moment. "I have had few dealings with the Miyazato. I am not sure if you are acquainted with the likes of good sirs such as Moru or Nozaki?" She then shot Meilin a look.
"As for the Cho Guard, I am quite curious to a few matters. That is, if you wouldn’t mind me asking."

For a moment, Meilin was worried on how Aoi would handle this. Then again, she wasn’t even certain she was handling this according to the social rules that were in place when interacting with a ruler.
”Of course, your Majesty. I am bound to an oath of secrecy but I am willing to see what I can answer.” Meilin said as she tried to subtly fix her outfit. For a moment, she shot a sideways glance at Aoi as the names Kiyomi had said were quite foreign to her.

‘So Meilin brought the information directly to the Empress…?’ Aoi was a bit confused by the thought, she had figured she’d have handed it off to someone important with what it pertained to, but the Empress herself? She shifted a little uncomfortably as The Empress revealed that she knew other Miyazato’s and wanted to know if she knew any of them herself, Aoi nodded, at the Empress, instantly regretted the overly familiar movement and spoke, “Moru is my Uncle, Your Grace. He has an interesting view on our faith and his job as a Priest… Nozaki…” she seemed to think for a moment, “is a distant relative, I know of him and what he does for the Empire.” she said, “Is there anything you’d like to know about them Your Grace?” she asked, unsure if she was supposed to just leave her questions answered or go further.

"Ah, I realised that. If you don’t wish to break your oath then we can speak of different matters." Kiyomi replied to Meilin, though a bit sad that she couldn’t indulge much into the elusive organisation of the Cho. "Perhaps you could enlighten me about your lineage? I haven’t ever heard of it before."
Turning to Aoi, Kiyomi considered if she should ask more about Moru and Nozaki. "Oh no. Not at the moment. I am more so curious about you and the team. What is that you guys specialise in? Any particular weapons you prefer? Tactics?" Kiyomi paused herself, flashing a polite smile before she took a small sip of her drink.

Meilin would offer a small bow with her head, feeling a bit relieved.
”Many thanks, your Majesty.” She softly said as reply.
Listening to what Aoi said, Meilin felt a bit more comfortable. If anything, it just seemed that Kiyomi was just curious about some matters. And not being a questioning or a conversation about politics. However, then the Empress started to ask questions about the team. Meilin wavered for a moment.
”We have been operating not for too long. We specialise in...” Meilin’s voice trailed off as she shot a sideways look at Aoi that betrayed that the Cho wasn’t certain what she should say as answer.

Aoi could feel the relief as the Empress stated she didn’t want to know anything about them. All of her stories of Moru were of arguments with her father over proper devotion and him sneaking her off from the Shrine to go drink when she was still too young to be doing so. As for Nozaki? All she had of him were stories from her older relatives. She listened for a moment about wanting to know of Meilin’s lineage and remembered briefly reading somewhere about how important family ties and allegiances were to the Chonobi. When a question was directed towards her and the team as a whole Aoi caught the glance from Meilin and her almost pitiful reply. She picked up where Meilin left off and attempted to salvage some form of normalcy for the image of their team, “The three of us all have our strengths Your Majesty.” she said as she waved a hand to Meilin and briefly searched for Madoc in the crowd, “I’d say the team doesn’t necessarily specialize yet. We have one specialized in Yamanaka Clan techniques, Meilin with her infiltration and sword work, and I have my iron and my fists.” she joked at the end, hoping the relative ages of them and the fact the Empress seemed to be trying to simply enjoy a normal conversation would excuse her small joke.

"Ooooh, you guys got a Yamanaka, huh?" Kiyomi’s eyes gained a glint as a smile grew on her lips. "I used to work with a Yamanaka myself, back in the days." There was a certain amused emphasis on the last four words but Kiyomi continued. "Did you bring your Yamanaka with you? Interesting lot, in my opinion. I haven’t met one thus so far that disappointed me." She continued. Meanwhile she did memorise what Aoi had said. Glancing at Meilin, Kiyomi wondered for a moment how good the other’s sword work was. Yet, this wasn’t the time or place to question if the two would be willing to test their skills out.
"But you say iron? Care to elaborate?" Kiyomi asked, unable to not think about Hayate’s kekkei genkei. Did the Miyazato figure a way on how to gain the Hyuzu bloodline ability? Or was it something different entirely?

Relieved, once more that Aoi spoke up, Meilin tried to use the small window of time to mentally recompose herself. Folding her hands in front of her, Meilin awaited on how Kiyomi reacted to Aoi’s response. When the Empress began over the Yamanaka, Meilin had to agree somewhat. Madoc was… interesting. For a moment, Meilin felt like she should bring that up but she didn’t want to embarass Aoi in front of Kiyomi.
”Madoc Yamanaka went with us. But we lost him. I imagine that he is probably somewhere around. Maybe coming back to us, very soon.” Meilin said the last part in a softer tone. When Kiyomi asked about Aoi’s iron, Meilin decided to let Aoi cover that.

She found herself searching for Madoc again, a quick glance to either side to try and spot the telltale blonde hair but she came up with nothing once more. She wished he were here to meet the Empress with them. “He’s very interesting, yes.” she agreed with the Empress after Meilin stated they had lost him, which caused her to blush as if they had failed at keeping watch over a small child and he’d simply run off. When the Empress asked about her iron she had no issue talking about it, much of it was well publicly available knowledge anyway

“Magnet Release Your Grace. It’s the kekkei genkai of my clan. We can manipulate any metal objects to an extent. Lifting things, sending things as projectiles, and with iron dust or filings we can do much more interesting techniques.” she stated, feeling more than a little proud she was apparently the first to explain her families bloodline to the Empress of Akino.

Madoc Yamanaka. Memorising the name, Kiyomi noticed the blush on Aoi’s face. There was some more curiosity on why the Miyazato was blushing but she considered that was more personal. "Magnet Release. How intriguing." Kiyomi replied softly as she considered something. "I never have seen it in action. Would you be so kind to later show it to me? I have seen people use something similar to what you just describe. But I would be most pleased to see this Magnet release myself. Same as the sword work of a Cho." Kiyomi shifted her gaze to Meilin, with a small smile crossing her lips.

For a moment, Meilin wanted to inquire what Aoi meant with that. But she decided against that. She remembered the interaction between Aoi and Madoc but that was something that not proper to discuss with a conversation with the Empress herself. When Aoi spoke of her Magnet Release, Meilin couldn’t resist a smile herself. She was willing to do a step back, in a manner of speaking, as she imagined that it was pretty wicked to have the Empress being interested in your abilities.
”Huh,” Meilin’s eyes widened for a moment as she then gained a blush herself.
”I must say that I am not an expert on swordsmanship. I would most likely pale in comparison to what I have heard about you, your Majesty.” Meilin replied, bowing her head again as a sign of respect and attempt to hide her blush.

Aoi felt her release was unique, and she was positive she thought of it as far too normal when compared to those that didn’t have it, but to be told so by the Empress solidified the fact. “It would be my honor Your Grace.” she said as she bowed again and rose, the feeling of pride inside her only growing as she was given an opportunity to now show off the release to her. She stopped as she rose and raised a question, “I take it you want a demonstration sometime later?” she asked, curious as to what exactly the Empress was interested in seeing, if it were a simple use of it then she could do it right now with the earrings she was wearing, but if she wanted something more… She suddenly became very aware that the Empress may have just asked to spar the two of them. Her stomach turned in a knot and she held her smile.

"Oh, please. I reckon that you might be quite enough to be a challenge for me. After all, some stories are a bit blown up." Kiyomi replied back to Meilin. The idea of actually having a spar against these two was starting to gain more ground within Kiyomi’s mind. When Aoi asked if she wanted a demonstration later, Kiyomi nodded.
"I would find it only proper if I would show what I could do. Perhaps a friendly spar would be best. Nothing too serious, of course. Nor not now." She added, throwing a glance at their right, at the feast.
"But if you two would be willing, I would be most grateful. Perhaps I can pick up a thing or two from you both." She cheerfully continued, her smile growing.

”Oh by Valdar’s balls, where is Madoc?!” Meilin thought to herself as she felt her courage sinking down to her shoes. She had hoped that Kiyomi was just asking for a simple demonstration. When it became clear what she was asking for, Meilin felt how more blood rushed to her head. Sparring against the Empress, who had achieved so much more than she had in terms of martial skills?
”I-I-I would be honoured, your Majesty.” Meilin said, her eyes cast down. Meanwhile, Meilin wondered if there was a way to get out of this. But not able to come up with a solution, Meilin decided to just go with it.
”May I perhaps ask a question, your Majesty? Regarding the rumoured Shark blade?”

Her heart dropped into her stomach when the Empress confirmed she wanted to spar. Aoi wasn’t sure what to say. How do you spar royalty? They have to win right? You don’t fight at your all versus someone like the Empress, you let her win, it’s only proper? She prayed that Madoc had had the good sense to link the three of them before the feast, at least then she could have talked to Meilin in secret before the Empress and they could have come up with some sort of plan for this. They’d also know where Madoc was. She forced herself to remain focused on the Empress, fighting the urge to search for the Yamanaka once more she’d smile “I’m sure we would learn far more from you than the other way around Your Grace.” she replied before following Meilin’s lead and countering with a question of her own, “As well if you don’t mind, what sort of release or releases do you have Your Grace? I’m admittedly low on knowledge of much that has happened in the past few years, which would include you.” she stated a little embarrassed of the fact.

Snickering briefly and softly, Kiyomi gained an amused expression on her features. It was clear that the two others were a bit surprised by something. Was it because how casual the conversation was going so far? Or was it because of something else? When Meilin asked if she could ask something about the Shark Blade, it took only a second for Kiyomi to realise what the Cho was referring to.
"Go ahead. I don’t have it anymore though." Despite her tone still friendly, there was a little bit of bitterness that rang through. Remembering the struggle she had against that particular Zealot, Kiyomi’s attention went to Aoi.
"What sort of releases I have? Well, my affinity is lightning. So it is of little surprise that I am most competent with that particular element. I also know my way with Fire but I can’t say that I should be considered an expert on it. I am still learning a thing or two on how to use that in a more efficient manner." Kiyomi replied back. Now, it was time for her to be on the offensive.

"May I ask though, Miss Cho, what kind of blade and fighting style you are most comfortable with? Not to mention, you brought up that you are competent with taijutsu, Miss Miyazato. I take it that you’re thus also more comfort at close ranged fighting?"

She didn’t have it anymore? Meilin felt bad for asking about it then. Once more, she casted her eyes down while stopping herself from pulling and messing with her current outfit. Yet, she was curious about what she had heard of the particular weapon. Could it be really true that a weapon had a mind of its own? It sounded so odd when she thought about it. She prefered her weapons to not have their own thoughts or feelings, that was for sure.
”Eh,” Meilin flashed an apologising smile. ”I prefer the straight blades. I have little experience with the curve weapons that the Taika employ now and then. As for fighting style, I am schooled in the style of Ulfur,” Meilin told Kiyomi.
”What about you, your Majesty?”

Lightning and Fire, although the Empress said herself she didn’t consider herself much of an expert at Fire Release. Still, it was more than Aoi could claim. Then the Empress turned the questions back on them, Aoi swallowed and waited for Meilin to answer the young monarch before she would chime in. “That’s correct Your Grace. I specialize in taijutsu, so close in is my play space.” she raised a fist joking no higher than her chest, she quickly followed her reply with another question, “What field do you specialize in if I may ask, or are there multiple?”.

"Ulfur, though I was taught some bits about the style of Köttor," Kiyomi replied back to Meilin, at first. "I don’t mind in particular what blade. The designs of the Taika have their merit. Some are quite to my liking but the more robust designs of my own clan are probably what I favour more."
Turning her attention to Aoi, Kiyomi thought for a second.
"It might not surprise you that I am specialised in various fields. Taijutsu and weapon expertise. I also dabbled a lot into ninjutsu. And I know a few bits of barrier release techniques. Courtesy from the Fourth Hokage when I was serving as his apprentice." Kiyomi replied back to Aoi. Taking a sip of her drink, Kiyomi decided it was her turn, again.

"What kind of nature release have you mastered, Miss Cho? And I am most curious but what would you say is the best perk of Magnet Release, Miss Miyazato?"

It was a surprise to hear that Kiyomi also was schooled in the same style. Even more when she had went further to learn something of the sub-style of the Wolf. Taking Kiyomi’s words in, Meilin was on the verge of asking if Kiyomi perhaps was willing to teach her a thing or two. But that wouldn’t be proper. More so, hearing what fields Kiyomi had specialised herself into made Meilin wonder about the Empress ability of using fire release.
”You served as the Fourth Hokage’s apprentice? How was that?” She asked, only realising that her curiosity got the better of her. ”If you don’t mind me asking, your Majesty. As for nature releases, I only have Fire. It is my affinity.”

They were doomed. Aoi figured they’d be utterly out matched in a spar versus the Empress. She seemed to be specialized in multiple fields, had been trained by a Hokage in the past, and talked of weapons as though second nature. She was glad the woman was on their side and not the other way around. She wondered a moment what she would consider the best perk of her release would be before she began to raise a finger only to quickly put it back down again. Too familiar a gesture. “It’s versatile.” she said, “I can use any metals, even things that aren’t normally magnetic, and with the dust or filings… I can make just about anything I want if I’ve got enough of it Your Grace.” she couldn’t help but remember Irene as she thought about the things she’d made in the past from her dust.

He wasn’t quite sure when he had lost Aoi and Meilin among the crowd, one moment they were next to him and then poof! If he was a child then man they would be irresponsible parents. So he had decided to take the opportunity to wander and ooh and awe at the various stuff in the hall. Quite the fancy looking place, probably the only place he also wouldn’t risk shit. He was half certain everyone in this room was being watched, he could try to find out but doing some hand seals would probably cost him his arms. A place with all kinds of nobles and leaders alike made sure that it was rather well protected. So he was more so admiring the sights. He had a talk with a few people, majority being female. Yet he was currently looking for his teammates now.

While he was walking through, he spotted in the distance Aoi’s blue hair and would weave through the crowd, stopping once they were in view. Yet as he saw their looks and who they were speaking too, he turned on his heels and started to walk away. ”Nope.

”Oh, one second, your Majesty,” Meilin said as she caught sight of Madoc. She then gestured to Madoc, sending him a meaningful look.
”That is our other team member. Madoc Yamanaka.” She quickly flashed a smile to the Empress, ”I will go and get him.”
Walking in a rapid pace, Meilin had her gaze locked on to the Yamanaka.
”Oh, you are with us.”

So the Cho had fire release. And upon hearing the Magnet release, Kiyomi grew more intrigued by it. The first question came from Meilin, on how it was to serve as the Hokage apprentice. If anything, Kiyomi wondered how Hisoka was doing right now. Hopefully, not too shabby.
Before Kiyomi could reply to the question of Meilin, the Cho pointed out and stated that she saw the Yamanaka of their team. "Oh, yes please." Kiyomi nodded as she would watch how the Cho started to catch up to the Yamanaka. Turning towards Aoi, Kiyomi decided to continue the conversation.
"So, I heard you guys visited Hanaguro. I have yet to visit the city myself. How is it like?"

Aoi turned, a bit surprised as Meilin made off to grab Madoc and left her completely alone. She put her gaze back on the Empress and fiddled with the sash at her waist for a second before raising her head up to the Empress and giving a nervous little smile, “Oh it was quite beautiful Your Majesty.” she said quickly, “The city is massive, the bazaar is wonderful, and the Fire Temple is unmatched as far as I’ve ever seen.” Aoi exclaimed as she would continue to worry what was taking Meilin so long. She glanced toward her teammates quickly to see what was going on, only to catch that they didn’t appear to be moving yet toward the Empress and her. She felt as though she were being abandoned by them to be left alone with the Empress and her questions. She managed to keep her complexion calm and composed as she began to panic on the inside alone with the most powerful person in the Empire.

He saw her gesture and it was still a hell no. Continuing to walk away he could hear her footsteps walking towards him. Before he could escape a group of people moved in front of him cutting off his retreat. Mentally swearing he would turn around to look at Meilin before grumbling and walking back towards Aoi and the empress. Arriving at the two he would shoot Aoi an amused look before looking at the empress and giving a bow. ”Greetings your majesty, my name is Madoc Yamanaka. Sorry for my late arrival. Got lost in the crowd.” Madoc said putting on a smile.

"Hmm, I should go there one day. I have never been to Hanaguro." Kiyomi replied back to Aoi. It was almost impossible to notice that the blue haired girl was getting nervous. It was for Kiyomi, slightly amusing. Deciding to not drop more questions on Aoi, Kiyomi would just continue talking. "I should make plans to visit the cities of the River. I have heard many good tales about them. Then again, there is the problem of opinions. Perhaps I will find it less pleasant or beautiful than others might."

Kiyomi wouldn’t mind to continue talking. Her amusement grew only more as she realised that Aoi was pretty much now her verbal captive. The etiquette demanded that the Miyazato couldn’t leave unless Kiyomi would allow her. But then the Cho came back with the blonde young man. Madoc introduced himself and Kiyomi would turn towards the Yamanaka. "Oh, no problem. Such occurrences are pretty common in events like this one." Kiyomi replied in Yakimara, despite a heavy accent was evident, before she swapped back to Taika. "I was just speaking with your fellow team members and leader about several matters. I must say," she shot the three members of Team 4 a glance, a smile forming on her lips. ”You three do make a most interesting combination."

Arriving back at Kiyomi and Aoi, with Madoc, Meilin flashed an apologising smile towards the former two. Placing her hands at her back, Meilin would allow Madoc to introduce himself. The excuse he gave was accepted by Kiyomi, mentally relieving Meilin. When Kiyomi replied back in Yakimara, Meilin blinked. She understood some of it but wished that she was better at the Yakimara language. The remark of Kiyomi made Meilin throw a glance at Madoc and Aoi.
”Thanks your Majesty.” Briefly, Meilin wasn’t entirely certain what to say more. Deciding to risk it, she would speak further.
”I have heard that you served in the military before you were made into the Empress. Would you honour us with perhaps telling us about that time?”

Relieved when the Empress didn’t ask any further questions and instead began to simply talk about her own wants in relation to the River province. Aoi would listen and nod her head respectfully, “I can’t speak for all the other cities, but if Hanaguro is a model of the River then I’d have to recommend such a trip Your Majesty.” Aoi said with a smile before Madoc and Meilin would arrive. She shot Madoc a less than happy smile and placed her attention back on the Empress as she responded to Madoc in Yakimara. When the Empress seemed to either compliment or imply something more about the team Aoi was a little dumbstruck. She wasn’t sure if it were a compliment or a nod to something else so she simply nodded and thanked her after Meilin. She gave Meilin the floor and would take a needed break from talking with the monarch.

With the empress speaking in Yakimara to him, it caught him a bit off guard as he rose his eyebrow a bit amused at the gesture. Yet he just chuckled and nodded in agreement as she would switch to Taika, before complimenting them on the interesting set up they had going on. It was rather amusing though to see both Aoi and Meilin being so… not themselves. Sure it was the empress but if you treated her as such in every way possible, it showed to heavily. Made you to uncomfortable around them. Something he was certain Kiyomi was picking up on heavily. Seemed he would need to be the one to try and lessen their anxiety, as Meilin tried changing the subject almost instantly.

”Interesting you say? I’m rather curious as to what you think is interesting about it. I personally think we mix rather well if you ask me. Sure different cultures, yet at the same time we see past that a bit.” Madoc said as he stared at the empress, not wanting to see if Meilin or Aoi were shooting dirty looks towards him.

"Good. I value your recommendation," Kiyomi replied politely towards Aoi. She wanted to answer the question of Meilin but Madoc spoke up. The question made Kiyomi briefly raise her eyebrows. "Exactly what you just said, Yamanaka." Kiyomi replied back to the blonde young man, leaving her answer at that.

"My time in the military isn’t that spectaculair, I fear. I only fought in one large conflict and managed to achieve some feats there. More than that, I fear that I owe it to what people think I am capable." She started, turning her attention towards Meilin, "I do think that I had it slightly easier, in some regards. The protocols were less stern when I was a genin."

Was one more than she had, Meilin thought to herself. It was quite daunting and impressive how somebody this young could be so collective and achieved such things. Hearing that the protocols were less stern, Meilin couldn’t resist a smile.
"Well, at least it is pretty hard to match what people tell about you, your Majesty." Meilin gave a subtle bow with her head.

Aoi was very content just standing by and listening. Her hands crossed in front of her she would running her fingers over themselves nervously as they spoke, and gave a small bow of her head when the Empress stated she would take her recommendation to mind. Aoi wasn’t very versed in the military structure, or any changes that had come through since the implementation of the Empire thanks to her time spent back home so she held her tongue and decided she’d ask Meilin about what the Empress meant later.

Well that was kinda a shit reply, it only made it more so when Kiyomi replied more about Meilin’s question. He also cared every little about this military talk so he was more so in Aoi’s boat of listening at this point. It made him wonder ever so slightly why he needed to be over here. The bright side of being able to read minds, he had an entire room full of people to listen to as they made shit up on the spot.

"I have this idea that you guys make it further than me." Deciding, however, that this was enough. Kiyomi would conjure a disarming smile as she made a small as graceful bow towards the three. "I do hope that I can soon discuss something with you, Meilin Cho. Madoc Yamana," Kiyomi paused as she would state something in Yakimara, subtly nodding her head as she would say the same to Aoi but then in Taika. "Aoi Miyazato, It was a pleasure to have met you."

[/spoili][/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox=Dea's Debut, purple]
In Magnhild, at the feast!
Two Cho's of different origin share yet a lot of similarities!

A collab between Oetje and Somebody Actually.

Summary:
Meilin received information that her team would be changed. This happened after the meeting with Kiyomi. Given the description of the new member, Meilin decides to split from Aoi and Madoc to seek out the new member. Dea Cho.
The two find each other and engage in a fun conversation. In the end, they decide to go out and find Madoc and Aoi!




[spoili]
Meilin looked around. There were groups of people from all kind of clans and social status around. There were some that stood out, because Meilin managed to recognise the clan symbols that were etched into their attires. Some others were completely unknown to her but that wasn’t why she was walking around. The information that she had received, about a new member joining her team had caused her to wander around in the large hall. If Meilin understood it right, this new member to team 4 wasn’t a chuunin. But a genin. Which was quite interesting. More so when she had learned that this ‘Dea’ came from the Vanguri. An aspect that made Meilin quite curious and eager to meet this girl. For she had never met one of the Vanguri. Only heard tales about the Vanguri clans. Meilin wondered how she should introduce herself. The background of Dea meant that she understood as would be able to converse in Chonobi. Which Meilin did prefer.

For around ten minutes, Meilin walked around as she tried to spot a genin out of the crowd. She had assumed it would be easier than it turned out to be. With the genin being 14 years old, Meilin was mostly on the look for somebody that was of short height and then confirming to the description of her appearance. Just before Meilin was considering to find Madoc, making him lend her some help, the young woman came to a halt. Spotting a girl of short height and fitting the description that she had been given, Meilin would take a moment to consider her approach. Once she was sure, she would slowly approach Dea.
”Good evening,” Meilin flashed a friendly smile as she kept a respectful distance towards Dea. Hopefully speaking in Chonobi would make the sudden approach less stressful for Dea. ”I hope I am not bothering you. My name is Meilin Cho,” giving a small bow, Meilin would wait and hope that her friendly approach would pay off.

Dea understood it very well that, since her enlistment, she was a piece for the Akinian military to deploy wherever it saw fit. But even so, was this really the sort of function someone like her should attend? Wherever she looked there was political figures and dignitaries whispering to each other about their trade agreements and whatever else. What if she accidentally overheard something she shouldn't and got assassinated or something?

Discreetly, she reached over and knocked one of the banquet tables before her three times, just to keep that idea out of the spirits’ minds. She, at present, was supposed to be searching for her new team. But, in this sea of people, it was hard to pick out any one of the people described in the file she received.

Admittedly, when she first arrived she'd been awed by grandeur of it all: the decoration, the food, guests in their varied fineries. So much so that she forgot her purpose there for a moment, to marvel at everything. Eventually she ended up near one of the tables that were covered edge to edge with both food and drinks. The girl was eyeing a cup of spiced wine, unaware of a nearby guard’s watchful eye, when someone called out to her. It was a woman, or a girl maybe, that looked to be a little older than herself. Dea was sure to smile back at her, even if she didn't really know why she was being approached right now. “Good evening,” she replied, semi-faintly. Her smile became slightly more genuine upon hearing the woman’s familiar name. “Ah! Good evening!” she repeated, this time more assuredly. Dea made a fist with her left hand, and pressed it against her right palm as she dropped into her own bow. “I was just...searching for you, Ms. Cho.” Dea awkwardly stepped a bit away from the banquet table that she'd been considering. “My name is Dea Cho, as of today I've been assigned to team four. Um, to your team that is.”

The greeting of Dea reminded Meilin that she hadn’t given the same kind of respect. Straightening her back, the older Cho would perform the same bow as per tradition of their clan. For a second, Meilin wasn’t entirely certain what to tell the girl. This was the first genin that had ever been assigned to her. Her own genin. Realising that she was silent, Meilin nodded firmly.
”That is correct! Please, let us sit. I have been standing almost all evening.” Meilin gestured for Dea to take the seat she had occupied before. Taking place upon a chair at the same table, Meilin considered how to continue.

”And please, Meilin. That will suffice. I do think that you probably have a lot of questions. To be fair, I have a lot of questions as well. You see,” flashing an apologising smile, that was accompanied with a subtle gesture - as if it would clear out what Meilin was going to convey.
”I never got word of you joining my squad until this evening. I know that usually, the team leader gets a profile that they can study. But seeing the current situation, yeah...”
Meilin’s voice trailed off as she remained silent for a second. Placing her hands on the table, folding them together, she leaned a bit towards Dea.
”So, how about we make this a bit fun. You get to ask me a question and I will ask one in return. Of course, after I answered your question. Sounds good?”

There really wasn't a need for Meilin to redo her bow, Dea was just more used to this manner of greeting. But Dea didn't dwell on that and instead accepted Meilin’s offer to sit. Truthfully, even if her butt hurt from the journey here that was still better than standing forever in her toe-pinching shoes. She sighed slightly, in relief, as she sat and folded her hands on her lap. Her brow crinkled a bit upon hearing of Meilin’s delayed informing. “That is strange...I got my assignment weeks ago.” Of course it took weeks just to travel to Magnhild from the Cho compound in Konoha. Maybe Meilin’s letter got tied up along the way. Meilin seemed to get more serious all of a sudden, and Dea straightened up in her seat in response. However, she tensed up for no reason apparently because Meilin’s suggestion was anything but severe. “Sounds good to me. Then, I'll go first if that's fine.”

As she thought up a question her eyes scanned upwards briefly before snapping back to Meilin once she thought of one. “Ah! I've got one. Then, about my-Er…our teammates, what are they like?”

She'd been wondering about her team throughout the bulk of her commute here, and whether or not she could get along with them.

Hearing that Dea had received the assignment weeks ago, Meilin didn’t need to ponder long on what could have been the cause.
”Must have been while I was still in Hanaguro. The capital of the River province,” she paused for a second and lightly shook her head. Listening intently to the genin, Meilin would give her the time to conjure a question.
The question caused a smile to appear on Meilin’s lips. Taking a second to consider how to explain them, Meilin slowly began. Weighing her words carefully.

”Well, you got me. Leading the team. But there is also Madoc Yamanaka. He is orientated on stealth and sensory ninjutsu. Not to mention, that he has also Yamanaka techniques. Reading...” Meilin’s voice trailed off for a second. Perhaps she shouldn’t say that Madoc could read minds? That was quite intimidating, after all.
”Chakra signatures and doing those Yamanaka techniques. Heh. Oh, also there is Aoi Miyazato. She uses Magnet Release. Which is.. euhm...”
Wondering how she should explain that, Meilin looked up for a moment.
”When she pours her chakra into a metal, she can make it float and move from a distance. Those are basically the team members for now. But I suppose it is my turn to ask a question now.”

Taking a second to consider a question, Meilin had one she considered good. ”Why or how did you become a kunoichi?”

Dea somewhat knew of the Yamanaka clan, but she didn't know all that much about them, she supposed she could now learn more about them now that she would soon be acquainted with someone of that descent. As for her other teammate Miyazato, they seemed to have an interesting type of ninjutsu, one that she'd never even heard of before. She was getting sort of excited to meet them too now. Meilin’s question caught her a bit off guard, but it shouldn't have. This kind of question, was basic of basics. ”Oh...that's because I found out I had a talent for it...is all,” Dea offered her this reason, which was about half of the truth. She could only hope that Meilin would be satisfied with that. “Let's see...what about you then, Meilin? Why did you become a kunoichi?”

The smile on Meilin’s lips became faint. The curious expression seemed to become a bit less joyful. Raising her left hand, Meilin briefly scratched her cheek. She should have expected that question back.
”I hurted my little brother. It was an accident.” Lowering her hand, Meilin would straighten her back and cross her legs, her left over her right. Raising her right, a wry smile crossed the chuunin’s lips.
”I am not sure if you have any siblings but well, he was getting on my nerve. I became angry and as I lashed out, he got burnt. Nothing too bad but it did spook my parents.” For a second, Meilin became silent. But she soon inhaled and seemed to display a bit more joy, as if the topic didn’t bother her.
”I then winded up in Konohagakure. Got taught how to control my chakra. And well, here I am. Still in the business. Heh,” now it was her turn to think of a question. ”What do you expect of me, as a team leader? As in, you know, qualities and such.”

She was mentally admonishing herself as soon she saw Meilin’s smile drop. Of course, if she, herself, had been slightly upset at that question, why wouldn't Meilin be? She wasn't sure why she'd even asked that back, it just slipped out naturally. Now she felt bad for making Meilin think of unpleasant memories. Not wanting to seem pitying, Dea kept her face in a neutral expression; all the while squeezing her folded hands together slightly. The story was not all too different from what happened when her “talent” surfaced, thankfully no one got hurt at that time.

“Eh?”The next question was as surprising as the first, just in a different way. Dea pulled her hands apart and waved away the suggestion that she made any expectations. She really hadn't. “I'm not particularly expecting anything from you!” She assured, and then winced slightly, since it came out kind of bad. “Uh, what I mean is that I don't really like making expectations about people. I was just hoping that...well...”Dea usually wasn't the shy type, but her next words were embarrassing so, she couldn't help but duck her head down as she spoke them “...That we could get along?”

Once she was over her embarrassment, or at least could hide it away, she bounced back upright“L-Lets do a more fun one then! What's your favorite jutsu, Meilin?”

The surprise caused Meilin to wonder if she had perhaps asked a too direct question. She was already on the verge to rephrase her question but Dea managed to answer it. Or well, tried to. Patiently waiting for the girl to answer, Meilin couldn’t help but once more smile upon hearing the other’s answer.
”Well, that makes two of us! Though, I should be honest.” The friendly tone became a bit harder. ”During missions and troublesome scenarios, I want you to follow orders. I might be harsh or even appear to be unfair sometimes. But you got to believe me that I aim to make sure that nobody of the team is hurt if I can avoid it.” Letting those words sink in, Meilin conjured the smile of before back on her lips.

”My favorite jutsu. Hmmm,” That was actually a good one. She wasn’t sure which one was her favorite. Her first thought was to think which jutsu she used the most. But that didn’t mean it should be her favorite right away.
”Hidden in Fire and Ash. It sounds super amazing but I just spit a large cloud of warm ash. Very useful to provide cover or create an escape. What about you, Dea?”

“Of course. There's no need to worry about that.” She agreed with Meilin’s addition fully. She wouldn't be able to follow a leader that was too soft in tense situations. It was her understanding that on certain missions there was a real chance of getting seriously hurt. “My feelings won't be hurt if you give an order too sternly, or something. I'm pretty tough, you know, I just look like this.” Dea raised up an arm and motioned to her, admittedly, thin bicep.

An impressed sort of sound escaped her lips at the jutsu’s description “It sounds pretty amazing to me, I can't do anything like that.” All of her known jutsus were of the much more mediocre variety. “As for me, hm…” She didn't particularly favor any of the things she knew how to do. They were too ordinary, it would be like saying her favorite activity of the day was putting her shoes on. “...I don't know the name of it, but I once saw a shinobi make a whole house rise from the ground! I think it may of been some sort of relief effort.” That time was when she realized the scope of power that shinobi held. Then it hit her, besides wondering what her teammates would be like there was another pressing question, that had been in her mind do far longer than a few weeks. ”So...what would you say your missions are like? Are they all dangerous?”

"Good. Always good to sort that a bit out." Meilin replied. Genuinely happy that Dea wouldn’t hold it against her. When the girl stated that she was pretty tough, going together with showing a bicep, Meilin couldn’t help but smile.
"Oef! I know that I will need to be careful to not make you angry." She replied.
Dea continued about seeing a shinobi once making a house rise from the ground, Meilin couldn’t help but nod as her smile stayed present. That was quite a nice feat, she thought to herself. Then the next question of Dea came. Causing Meilin to think about her past missions. Dangerous? All of them? Putting up a thinking expression, Meilin leaned back in her seat. Crossing her arms out front of her chest, she hummed softly.

"Yeah. So far I have been doing a lot of dangerous missions. I can’t think of a mission that was really easy or without any risk. I think that some scars will tell enough," her voice became a bit softer, "I even admit that I have been scared to death a few times. But," a shift occurred in Meilin’s voice, becoming more upbeat. "I have visited quite amazing places. Besides, what is an adventure without a bit of danger, right?"

You’d better not,” Dea joked, and pat her arm once more for emphasis before dropping her hands back in her lap.

Meilin didn’t say anything about the missions that she hadn’t already expected. Back in the Academy and at the Cho compound she’s gotten a general sense of what would soon be in store for her. However, maybe, she’d hoped for the slight possibility that dangerous missions were of a rarer variety. Maybe it was her, but an adventure without danger seemed much more preferable ”Yeah, that’s a good way of looking at it,” Dea shrugged, and tried to match Meilin’s upbeatness “I guess I still haven’t really gotten used to the fact that I’m a kunoichi now.”

Raising her hands up, as if Meilin already was in need to defend herself against the onslaught that was Dea’s strength and fury, a soft laugh escaped the older Cho.
"Heh, just make sure that you won’t scare the others on the team." The young woman said as she would lower hands, placing them on her lap.
"I bet. Man, it took me some time. I sometimes still find it a bit odd. I actually wanted to enlist to join the guard at the town where I grew up." Meilin further said, shaking her head lightly, as if the mere idea was quite silly.

"Hmmm," considering something, Meilin’s eyes narrowed as a frown knitted on her brow. "I do need to figure out your skills and such. Would you mind to run by a few tests? Later on, that is. I don’t think it will be approved when I tell you to hit a mark with a shuriken or kunai. Not during a feast, heh."

”Really? I actually thought about that too,” She admitted, referring to Meilin’s past want to be a guard. When she first heard about that position, she thought it would be a perfect solution to her situation. But...that job was well beyond both her current and past skill level. “Those guys are...really skilled though.”

At the next point she glanced the room of well dressed and well-to-do individuals. Somehow she didn’t think any of them, or the empress for that matter, would be happy with an inexperienced Genin doing her target practice in their hall. “Probably not! But I don’t mind doing it later on.” Since Meilin was the leader of the unit that she was now apart of, did she really have a choice?

For a second, Meilin was a bit confused. She wasn’t so sure if the Vanguri really enlisted into the city guards. But she wasn’t certain to which Vanguri clan Dea was originating from. Then slowly it came together in Meilin’s mind. She realised that she hadn’t been entirely clear she had meant the city’s guard of Keishi. Dea, however, probably mistook it for the Cho Guard. Considering to talk about the Cho Guard, Meilin wavered.
"Yeah, they are." She said, remembering Eír. Feeling a sting of pain mixed with guilt, Meilin would keep the emotions away from her facial features.
"Great. Nothing too taxing, you know? I want to establish right now that you should never try more than your best. No need to perform hero acts. Believe me, we already got a blonde Yamanaka that will probably manage to outperform us on that." Meilin further told Dea, a sliver of amusement evident in the young woman’s tone.

"Hmm, how about I introduce you later to them? They are also at the feast. They are friendly people. Sometimes a bit quirky but," Meilin paused for a second. As if she was weighing something. "I trust them. I think you will like them."

Dea, once again, nodded in agreement with Meilin; taking on an airy sort of smile. She held a lot of respect for the Cho guards that protected her homelands and their craft. Becoming one would be the very essence of a dream. Like, Meilin her mood was changed by speaking about them; but for the better. If her new leader was acting strangely, the younger girl didn’t notice it. ”Yes, I’d like that.”She’d been nervous for this meeting, but it’d turned out better than she could of expected; and she found herself related to Meilin in quite a few ways. Hopefully meeting her other teammates would go just as smoothly.

Hearing that Dea would like that, Meilin felt somehow relieved. She was certain that Aoi and Madoc would get along with Dea. Despite the memories of Hanaguro still present in Meilin’s mind, she was sure that the others would likely be quick to try to offer help to the genin.
"Great. How about we go and find them?" Meilin suggested as she flashed a smile, ready to get up from her seat.

Dea swiftly rose up from her seat, smoothed out any wrinkles that had tried to form in her dress’ skirt, before turning back to Meilin. “Then, lead the way.”
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[fieldbox="Feast at Magnhild"]Moru Miyazato and Zakito Hon | Akinian Empire, Magnhild
A post between @Gerontis and FrostedCaramel

The Miyazato make their debut in the world of IC politics for the first time. Moru, a clan representative, meets the Lord Hon and the two hold a conversation as well as make a few simple deals for the strengthening of what could one day prove a prosperous business decision for both.
[spoili]
The presence of so many in the large hall brought a modicum of pride as worry within Zakito. Watching for a moment, the lord’s hands were placed against his back. Thus so far there was little to worry about. The preparations he had made to ensure that Taika, Yakimara and Chonobi alike were entertained and served probably were paying off. There was only the question on how ‘real’ the current peace and cooperation was. Knowing that pondering and doubting the other clans wouldn’t do much to promote or improve the cohesion of the realm, Zakito couldn’t just put aside his worries. His right eye moved his gaze over the many residents of the feast. But the man’s gaze rested upon a representative that wasn’t part of a large or influential clan. Striding forwards, Zakito would find little trouble to approach the man that went by the name of Miyazato Moru. A clan name that used to be the topic of mockery and disdain centuries ago by his forefathers, when missionaries of the Miyazato attempted to turn them to their unnamed god. Despite not holding anything against the beliefs of others, Zakito felt a certain pity for what had happened all those years ago. If the stories on his clan’s side were correct, there wasn’t really a happy ending for those Miyazato missionaries.

”Master Miyazato. I hope you are enjoying the facilities that the feast as your lodging provide sufficient comfort. ” Zakito said, as he inclined his head towards the representative.

Moru had been enjoying a small glass of spirits as he had taken in the party surrounding him. The hall was full of clan leaders and representatives, many of which he knew of and the better half of them he hadn’t the slightest clue of their allegiances. He brought a hand to the bridge of his nose and squeezed, how any of the Miyazato expected he could get anything done at an event like this with these people he knew next to nothing about hurt his brain just thinking about it. He took another sip of the spirit in his hand and lowered his hand down to his side once more.

He had noticed Lord Hon watching him long before the esteemed clan leader had decided to make his move. It afforded him a chance to straighten out his shirt where he stood and prepare a pleasant smile for one of the most powerful persons in the room. He returned the Hon’s head bow with a slightly more inclined bow then he had been given, despite the marred history of their two peoples, the Hon deserved far more than he had given Moru. As he rose from his curt bow he smiled a bit wider and motioned to the party around them with his free hand, “Absolutely, Lord Hon,” he brought his hand to the base of the glass in his other hand, “I’m hard pressed to say I’ve ever been better accommodated then here in the Great Halls of Magnhild.” he tilted his head down in a quick show of gratitude for the Lord and the undoubtedly large amount of work the man and his charges had gone through for this event.

“To what do I owe the honor of the venerable Lord Hon at my side tonight?” he asked curiously, the smile on his face as pleasant as it had been when the Hon had approached.

Placing once more his hands at his back, Zakito would reply in a most friendly tone. ”I have been called curious by some that are close to me, Master Miyazato. And my curiosity goes further than the borders of my clan. Please, do correct me,” the man began as the facial features seemed to be less hard as he continued. ”But don’t the Miyazato clan own a shrine near the borders of my clan? I was wondering how that shrine fares these days. I have to admit, sadly, that I never had a chance to witness the beauty of it. Though I have been told it is quite the sight.”

Moru nodded politely as the Hon spoke. Picking his words carefully he’d shake his head as he spoke, “Curiosity my Lord is a rather important thing to have, without it one may never hope to truly grow.” he affirmed before moving onto the question on the Shrine.

His smile grew slightly as he opened his mouth to answer, “The Ejyo Shrine, Lord Hon.” he took a small sip from the glass in his hand just to do something with his hands if only for a moment, “It’s nestled up against the borders of your lands, to the East of Konoha My Lord.” he stated to give the Hon a better idea of its location, “It does very well for itself, as most religious institutions in the nation go without taxation, all that we must worry about is keeping the buildings in good working order and feeding ourselves.” he joked, “At the moment the Shrine itself isn’t much to behold, cold and leafless would best describe its current condition. But if in two months time you have enough time to yourself you would be able to travel out during the cherry blossoms peak.”

“We’d be more than happy to accomodate a nights stay if you so wish to make the trip.” he smiled.

The first reply of Moru caused Zakito’s eyebrows to slightly perk up, as the Hon couldn’t truly disagree with the words of the Miyazato. Listening to the answer, Zakito subtly nodded to indicate that he understood it better now. The joke provoked a smile to appear on the Hon’s lips as he once more nodded. ”I might take upon the offer. Though I think it is common knowledge that I don’t follow the way of your gods. However, I would be most honoured.” Once more Zakito inclined his head towards the representative, to show his gratitude.

”However, I also must confess that I asked the state of the shrine out of worry rather than only curiosity. With the current ordeal ongoing with those Zealots, it is best to be safe than sorry. I am not entirely aware but if it would please your clan and people, I am willing to lend some aid in form of able protectors. Though,” a faint smile flowed on Zakito’s features, ”I will have to make sure that they won’t disrespect your flock. And keep their own ways, more to themselves.”

Moru frowned at the talk of the current climate of the Empire. It was no secret that turmoil was brewing caused by a rather secretive group, ‘Zealots.’ he thought before shaking his head, “My Lord, a Shrine of the Way of Fire is always open to visitors, regardless of their faith. God gave us all a piece of the Fire, to shun any from his holiest of places is no different than turning away God Himself were he to show up at our doorstep.” he reassured the Hon. He raised his hand away from the glass of spirits and waved it slightly indicating that the Lord Hon need not worry.

“It’s not common practice for a Shrine or Temple of my faith to be guarded unless there is direct reason to expect trouble.” he smiled politely, “I must turn down the offer, as generous as it is, I simply can’t accept such a thing. To take away the brave warriors of the Hon lands to protect a shrine of a religion other than their own is far too much to accept.” he bowed as deeply as he had when Lord Hon had first walked up and held himself down as he finished, “I must graciously decline my Lord.”. Moru rose up and smile once more, “If we come to believe we are in need of any sort of protection, your assistance will be the first I send for.” he said with a grateful nod of his head.

“If you don’t mind my asking Lord Hon, but I’ve heard that the Zealots have been causing quite a stir in Chonobi and Taika lands alike, although I haven’t seen any of this first hand where we’re located…” he paused and took a sip from his glass, “If there is anything that we should be on the lookout for in relation to these Zealots, I’d be more than happy to keep an ear to the ground and an eye to the horizon where you have none.” he spoke, pleasantly offering his service to the Lord.

Zakito wondered for a moment how proper it would be to indulge into a talk about what each deity gave to humankind. Whether it was Moru’s god or the Great Wolf. Pushing the thought to the back of his head, Zakito paid full attention to what the man’s reply would be. ”I do hope so. While we may differ in faith, we are countrymen. As her Majesty’s confidante, I would be quite the disgrace if I didn’t show some sympathy and loyalty to loyal subjects of her Majesty.” Zakito answered at first, taking no insult from the decline of Moru.

The following response was to what Moru brought up. The offer was even more interesting in Zakito’s opinion. ”I wish I could deny it as a mere rumour but the Zealots have most certainly achieved a certain success in causing friction among Taika and Chonobi alike. Though things are slowly calming down and no violence will follow at this rate, I would lie if things hadn’t come to a close.” Pausing for a moment, Zakito shifted his weight on his right leg. ”And your offer is most interesting, Master Miyazato. I reckon that the Miyazato clan has a certain approval among the court of various followers of the Way of Fire? May I ask, though. What would you desire in return for such a service?”

The Miyazato shifted in place when Lord Hon asked what he’d like in return for such an act. It wasn’t a surprise, it had been expected even. A clan with the reputation of the Hon, and as large as the Hon, with a leader as renowned as Zakito Hon… Moru had expected that the man would understand at what he had been after, even if it was in good faith to the Empire, a favor from those in high places was something to strive for. “Indeed the Miyazato are quite well connected within the lower branches of local and regional administrators that frequent our Shrines and Establishments.” he confirmed before moving on to the favor.

He shook his head, allowing a small tinge of surprise to move across his face as he did to seem as if he had been caught off guard by the Hon’s keen awareness, “Lord Hon, I’m not sure exactly what I could ask for at the moment, it’s quite an unexpected offer.” he bowed slightly and rose back up quickly, “I’d venture to say perhaps saving the favor for another time would best suit the Miyazato if that wouldn’t be too much to ask.” his smiled pulled tight his eyes darted to the drink in his hand and back to the Lord Hon, he allowed the embarrassment he could feel welling in his face to show a little to increase the genuine sense of the interaction with the Hon.

He hoped that the man couldn’t see the beads of sweat rolling down the back of his neck and disappearing behind his shirt.

Remaining silent, Zakito patiently waited for the response. Aside from formalities, he was well aware of that they were playing the game of influences and favours. A game that he used to dislike, when he was younger. But time as experience had taught him that there was no escaping the game. Regardless if one was having the position of kage or clan leader. The signs of uncomfort were noticed by Zakito. Slowly the right eye of the Hon half closed as he allowed a pause to follow Moru’s words.

”I would find it only most fitting for such a gesture, Master Miyazato.” Zakito replied, nodding towards the man. ”It would be most cruel to just demand what you or your kin would request in return. After all, we are dealing in mere good faith with each other. And not holding each other hostage.” Zakito half joked, a sliver of an amused tone being present in his voice. ”Please, if there is something that the Miyazato clan would desire, I would love to learn of it.”

Moru smiled at the Hon, he hadn’t come prepared for a talk that could impact the families so much, but he was in it now. He had to continue. He raised his head slightly, it was rude to deny a request from such an important figure as the Lord Hon, “Despite our lineages… marred pasts, I think it would one day be within both our interests to better understand one another. If that means one day the Miyazato may be able to open a place of business within Hon territory…” he bowed his head slightly to the Hon, “I believe it would be a most pleasing prospect. No Shrine of course, as religious as we are, our businesses are what truly feed us.”

He held his smile, unsure of how the Hon may take a request from a Miyazato, of which his religion was almost completely opposite of, moving into Hon lands. It would be the first peaceful agreement between the two groups, and hopefully, not the last.

Zakito was slightly surprised by the request. He had no qualms against the Miyazato or their religion. That also accounted for most Hons, even despite his people being known for staunch followers of their ancestral faith. Of course, there were also elements in his clan that would be repulsed by the mere idea of allowing ‘heathens’ settle within their lands. Not that he ever could remember that these more radical elements had made any more effort than some sort form of discrimination towards outsiders. ”I find the proposal quite intriguing, Master Miyazato,” Zakito replied back, his tone friendly. ”I am curious to see how an establishment would thrive. Needless to say, I do have some worries but they don’t rival the potential successes that could spark from such cooperation. Of course, I hope you or your kin won’t mind if I have the say in where this establishment is set up? I want to ensure that it will become a success and create future ground for our clans to work together.”

Moru bowed to the Lord Hon, “Of course Lord Hon, you would dictate the place, it is afterall your land to administer.” he rose and looked around for a moment before flagging down a young server boy with a tray of drinks. He plucked two small glasses and offered one to the Hon, “Miyazato are known to take hardship and turn it into prosperity my Lord. I offer a toast, even for something as small as mere talk, it is reassurance of a brighter future for both our people.” he held out the second glass with a smile, the sweat on the back of his neck had stopped, but he still felt hotter than usual.

Taking the glass, Zakito’s right eye was locked onto Moru’s. A second of silence hang in between Moru’s word and before Zakito replied. ”May your god and our gods smile upon this future agreement, Master Miyazato,” Zakito replied with a friendly tone as he would incline his head slightly before swigging the content of the glass away. ”Tomorrow, I shall begin with preparations. I do hope that you will be able to stay for some time. The lodging is yours for as long as you desire to stay.”

“May Their grace be upon us.” Moru agreed as he followed suit and drank his glass in one go with the Lord Hon. Moru brought the empty glass down as focused intently on the Hon. ‘So soon?’ He thought as he seemed to imply he'd begin work immediately on the deal, he bowed slightly a small smile parting his lips as he rose, “If it would assist in your preparations I can stay until the finer details are stamped out my Lord.” He replied, hiding the worry in the back of his mind behind a veil of political neutrality, “Although I imagine my wife Mai, won't be too pleased with me.” He joked, worried in his mind about the prospect of his wife's fury.

Zakito flashed a polite smile in return before he answered. ”But of course! The sooner the better. I am not a fan of letting work lay for too long. Better to have matters as these arranged right away.” The Hon replied as the smile grew, amusement evident in the Hon’s features. ”I would appreciate the help. But I prefer you having a pleasant stay. Perhaps you should bring your wife next time? Though, I would advise to do so in the more warmer seasons. The winters here can quite harsh.”

Moru nodded in agreement, “The faster we complete this the quicker we can move to more pressing matters I agree Lord Hon.” He said. A server passed and he took the empty glass from Moru with a small bow Moru returned the courtesy with a nod of his head. “I'm sure my wife would be overjoyed to take a trip to Magnhild once she hears my stories. Although I'm afraid it's need to wait until we have fully arranged for any movements of Miyazato on our end once we have finalized our agreements… She is rather pivotal in the area of logistics, otherwise the Inn would have went under long ago were I left in charge.” He mused.

He paused for a moment before raising an eyebrow in question, “if there is anything else I could be of service for Lord Hon, do let me know. But for now I'm sure there are plenty of other, far more important people to attend to then a Master Miyazato.” He didn't want to hold the Lord any longer, as well he didn't know where to take the conversation anymore. He needed space. Time to think. Time to put down what he needed out of this deal in his mind.

Once more the Hon nodded, agreeing with the words of Moru. ”Of course, Of course. I understand completely, with all respect to our wives.” The man replied, the light hint of amusement not vanished from the politeness. ”And please, Master Miyazato. We are to be… partners won’t cut it. Perhaps soon to be allies? You and your kin are as important to me as anybody else in this hall.” Zakito added as he would still give a subtle sign that Moru could take his leave. ”I hope you’ll keep enjoying yourself for as long you decide to stay. Else, do inform me right away.”

Moru internally winced. It was like he had been punched in the gut by a ghost. Allies? The word sat on his tongue like the taste of putrid meat. It hung in the air like the smell of rot and decay. Allies. All that the word brought with it flowed forth as Moru stood their smiling, not betraying his inner thoughts. “Of course Lord Hon.” He said with a deep bow before backing away and turning into the party. He needed to get back to his chambers. This needed to be sent to all the families.
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[fieldbox= The Miyazato and the Hanta, #99ccff]

[ Magnhild ]

{A collab between Frost and Jason}

Summary:
Following his brief talk with Shozo Uchiha, Makoto Hanta is approached by Moru Miyazato. The two have a brief discussion and set up some deals and plans for the near future.

[spoili]
Miyazato Moru had only just gotten away from the Lord Hon when he noticed another prominent Clan Leader he at least had to show face to. It was the least he could do with businesses and Shrines already setup in the Hanta lands. He parted the sea of people at the feast politely as he made his way to the Lord. He’d never seen him in person, never met him, but it was easy enough to know he had the right man. Aging grey hair, one eye and one arm where the key giveaways. Moru waited until the Lord seemed free and made his move, slipping in along his elder of many years with a bow.


“Lord Hanta.” he started as he raised his head, “I’m afraid I’ve not made your acquaintance yet.” he didn’t want to offer his hand if it would mean the Lord would need to let go of his cane so he simply continued, “Miyazato Moru, Representative of the Miyazato Clan. We have a few holdings in your lands so I felt it only right for me to thank you for continuing to allow us to stay settled.” he said with a smile. He wasn’t sure if he’d be able to get anything from this conversation, at the least he hoped for some fine words and maybe a new agreement in the works, at the most…


The Hanta had been making his way over to find a place to sit, maybe able to finally have a drink whenever another suddenly appeared with a polite bow and introduced himself. Makoto certainly didn't recognize the man, but he knew the surname. Returning the man’s bow best he could, Makoto wondered what the Miyazato wanted to discuss. "Makoto Hanta, pleased to make your acquaintance.” He replied back with brief pause before continuing.


"The Miyazato are most welcome in the Hanta lands, there is no need to thank us. Besides, I'm certain my youngest would have my head if she couldn't visit the shrine.” The man said with a light laugh before focusing back on the subject. "So, Master Miyazato, what is it you'd like to discuss?” He then asked, going straight to what he figured was the point. All the expected… fluff to political engagements such as this never had appealed to the old Hanta. So he hoped the Miyazato wouldn't mind getting straight to the meat of it as well.


Moru let out a small laugh and bowed again slightly, “I do enjoy to hear you have such a devout child. It brings a sense of purpose to what we do to learn of such uplifting news.” he said as he rose back up. He leaned slightly to the side as the Hanta seemed to cut right to the chase unlike the Lord Hon from earlier, ‘Perhaps it’s the difference in age?’ he thought to himself as he nodded his head in agreement with the older Clan Leader in front of him. There was a sense that Moru was intruding on something, but he pushed past it.


He cupped his hands together at waist level and inclined his head to the Hanta, “A few simple matters I do hope.” he replied, “I’d hate to take you away from the feast for too long.” he had a feeling that his continued diplomatic view on the conversation may anger the older gentlemen, but it was hard to get out of the mask he had been wearing all night. “I’ve heard rumblings… Ill-tidings from travelers of subversive elements acting within the Empire, they call them Zealots although anymore than that I don’t know much. With our unique circumstances, I was wondering if the Miyazato could be of any use to your Clan.” he moved his hand up for emphasis to point at himself. “My Clan is always listening to interesting rumours… I’m sure we could offer our assistance if you would require it in following up on these Zealots.” he said, although it wasn’t the main thing he wanted to ask about, he figured he could offer his clan's services to the nobler Hanta.


Take him away from the feast for too long? Makoto honestly didn’t mind that part in the slightest, the feast meant more idle conversations with no purpose to gain. Not something he much enjoyed indulging in. Though the Miyazato soon caught his attention with talk about the interesting rumors regarding these Zealots. The exact ones who Makoto’s people were concerned about and he had wanted to address the issue of with Lord Uchiha earlier. The proposition certainly was interesting to say the least. After a few moments to silently think over the proposal, the Hanta nodded.


"An interesting question, Master Miyazato. Though nothing comes without some price. What is it the Miyazato are looking for in return for these rumors?” He asked, though gave a polite smile at the end in a move to show he wasn’t put off. Rather, the Hanta was more interested in seeing what price information such as this would have attached to it. Certainly since it could help with other matters he had on his plate at the moment. Hopefully, the price wouldn’t be too much.


Moru smiled amiably. He had expected the Hanta to be a bit more deft in diplomacy than the younger Hon, and he had been proven correct. “Lord Hanta, there are a few Miyazato families that find their adult children still living with them. They make excellent Shrine keepers and business owners as they have been raised their whole lives doing these things,” he brought his hand back down from his chest, “If we could gain your permission to move a family into your lands and setup a new Shrine and business, we would be most grateful.” he nodded, “The location would be up to you if it would so please you.”


There was something else there. Something he could leverage. He decided to wait. “To bring the teachings of God to all, that’s our highest charge as you well know.” he said matter-of-factly, “A chance to spread ourselves would be beneficial for us both, as you must be well aware our business on the outskirts of Hanta no Seijou is rather prosperous. A second such establishment would only bring more coin for your coffers as well.” he spoke politely, not attempting to anger the Hanta in anyway with such a proposal.


Was that it? Such a simple request in exchange for information that was no doubt rather valuable in times such as these. Makoto wasn’t certain if that would be all the Miyazato would ask for, and as such decided that he wouldn’t agree until he knew all their cards. "So you offer these rumors in exchange for allowing another Shrine on my lands?” The man asked, trying to get the Miyazato to say what else was on their mind. He doubted that the other clan had much that would affect the Hanta in an ill way, after all they certainly weren’t on bad terms with each other.


"Of course, some people within my lands can’t travel so far to reach the current Shrine. So this could prove beneficial, if that is all you ask for in exchange.” The man said in a calm tone to let the Miyazato know that there was a bit of interest in the deal. With the fact the majority of the Hanta were firm believers in the Way of Fire, Makoto figured a second Shrine to allow easier access would only benefit his people. Not to mention the peace of mind that having access to a place such as a Shrine provided, could prove quite useful in times such as these.


Moru smiled as the Hanta seemed open for the idea. He hadn’t thought he’d be against it with the Hanta’s own faith in the Way of Fire being their largest common trait, but still he couldn’t allow himself to excited before things were finalized. “Correct Lord Hanta.” he stated before continuing “Rumours and hearsay, assistance in locating elements through good old information collection, but as you seem to suspect there is slightly more here than just that.” he said.


He waited a few moments, deciding whether or not he should come out with it now or save it for later. It wasn’t an offer as much as it was a proposal. A hastily made and only minutes earlier idea that had been placed in his mind by the Lord Hanta’s comment. “Do be told Lord Hanta, this is no longer a request as much as it is an offer between the Miyazato and the Hanta. A way to further our relations and grow our relationship as best as we can.” he stated. He wasn’t sure if it was a good idea, but it certainly wasn’t a bad one, and it wouldn’t be anything out of the ordinary for a Miyazato family to take in someone that wasn’t their own blood as many do. “If it would please you, and your youngest,” he bowed, “the Miyazato are always willing to take in young women and teach them in the intricacies of the Shrine Maidens.”


He was sure that the Hanta’s youngest was likely older than the normal age a girl would become a fully fledged Shrine Maiden, but it was actually a kind of common event for women to come from elsewhere beyond the normal ages to learn the craft and spend their time being taught and tending to the Shrine until they were deemed ready for full responsibilities. “If she truly is such a devout follower, I’m certain she would delight in the opportunity to become a Maiden herself, and of course it’s nothing permanent, only as long as you yourself would allow her, whatever that period may be.” he held his smile, uncertain how the Hanta would take the offer, although he had a feeling it wouldn’t sour their friendships, no harm was truly done through the offer except for maybe to a bit of paternal pride.


As Moru continued through this proposition, Makoto’s eyebrow raised slightly. Oh how the irony of the timing amused him. "Unfortunately, Amaya is already spoken for. That being said, my Granddaughter, Akira would likely much like such an opportunity. She’s been going along with Amaya to visit the Shrine as of late.” The man said, thinking this to also be a rather fair price for the information the Miyazato could provide. With Akira’s mother having a son on the way, and his other children he could afford to allow one of his grandchildren to partake in this. Not to mention, it would only strengthen the bond between the Hanta and Miyazato. Something which could provide benefits in the long run for his clan.


"I feel like this would make Akira quite happy, Master Miyazato. I think I shall take you up on this offer, and our previous terms as well. Lets hope this is only but a step into closer relations between our people.” He said with a kind smile, thinking that having yet another ally would prove quite valuable. Especially if this one would be willing to keep providing information such as they had already offered. "Though I would like to know, where will Akira’s teachings in the way of being a Shrine Maiden take place? Would she be at one of the Shrines within my borders, or travel elsewhere?” He asked, more out of genuine curiosity than anything else.


Moru nodded happily, it would be far easier to take in a younger girl then it would be the older one, the fact she had been promised elsewhere was almost a God sent gift. He thanked Him silently before he reacted to the Lord Hanta’s proposal, “That would be most wonderful Lord Hanta.” he said with a bow, “It is my understanding that your Northern city is currently lacking a Shrine…” his brow furrowed as he thought, “And that the area has a rather soothing hotsprings a ways up the mountains there. If it wouldn’t be too much to propose, the Miyazato would surely prefer to begin construction of the new Shrine and perhaps an Onsen at this mountain? The closer we are to the Heavens the closer we are to God Himself after all.” he added.


“I do speak for the Miyazato when I say we manage some of the best Onsens South of Mount Amagi, adding one to the North of Amagi would only add to the prestige of our establishments.” he humbly bragged, hoping to seal a deal on the hotsprings to the North.


He started again, “As for your Granddaughter Akira, she would have a choice at your discretion of course. She could assist in the founding of a new Shrine, a once in a lifetime experience might I add, or she could settle into the Shrine already at Seijou. I leave that decision to you, Lord Hanta.” he bowed again.


Makoto nodded along with Moru as he spoke, it was a good suggestion. Certainly since it would give easier access to the Moukin undergoing their Rites as opposed to having to travel all the way back to Seijou. Perhaps later he should have two more set up near the other cities. "That should work fine, it would also allow those undergoing their Rites to have less travel time in between. Those mountains also truly provide a beautiful view, something I’m sure those visiting the springs would rather enjoy.” He said calmly, as it was an easy enough decision.


Then the man offered to let him decide where Akira would go. As much as he wanted to have his granddaughter nearby, he had to admit letting her go to help set up the new Shrine would be a unique experience and perhaps even fun for the girl. It also being near his branch’s city, he had family there who would be able to keep an eye on her for him. After a few moments of mulling it over he spoke once more. "I think Akira would much enjoy setting up the new Shrine. We have some family in the area she doesn’t get to see often, so she will likely enjoy the chance.” The Hanta said, looking to see if the Miyazato would have anything to add on.


Moru smiled and spoke, “Just so you’re aware, assuming your Granddaughter Akira is a bit older, it’ll be a few years of lessons and training, gaining experience before she will be a full Shrine Maiden.” he warned, “Along with the fact the Shrine will need to be put up in the first place? It could be four to five years for the young lady to fully finish, sooner if she really puts her efforts into it.” he smiled. He had made yet another agreement, and so soon after the Lord Hons’. Perhaps he needed to talk with the rest in attendance as well. “Are there any of your aides that I could work with to finalize these matters in the coming days? I should be here another week, and as much as a spoken promise from a Lord such as yourself is good for, I can’t help but think for the sake of the agreement it should be put to ink and paper.” he suggested to the elder Lord.


The Hanta nodded after a moment, thinking that Akira would be busy for the next few years. It wasn’t particularly important, she’d just have to undergo her Rites a year later than most. "I’ll have one of my aides come to you, Master Miyazato. Though it will have to be soon as I will likely be heading back home rather soon. It's a long journey back to Seijou, and these old bones don’t like to travel much anymore. I look forward to our agreement and any future dealings we may have, Master Miyazato.” The Hanta said to Moru, but waited to head off in case the Miyazato had anything else to add.


The Miyazato bowed with a hand across his chest, “As do I Lord Hanta.” he said, “If an aide can come by tomorrow morning I should be ready and able for any paperwork we need to complete.” he said before bowing once more, “It’s been my pleasure Lord Hanta.” with that he slipped away into the party, leaving the elder Hanta to his own devices. Unlike before Moru began to scour the crowd, trying to pick out faces that he could use to further gain ground for the MIyazato.[/spoili][/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox="An Empress and a Sheep"]Kiyomi Homura and Moru Miyazato | Akinian Empire, Magnhild
A post between @Aliceee and FrostedCaramel

Moru manages to talk with the young monarch of his country. He gets to learn a bit about the girl, about the Chonobi and the differences in their faith and his own, and even manages to accept a request and perhaps set up some future meetings with the Empress. As well he learns to not underestimate the young girl that rules over him.
[spoili]
Miyazato Moru felt that he had well over tried his luck tonight. He wasn’t a Clan Leader, not even slightly important by any means, he just happened to be the closest one to the Clan meeting at Magnhild, and as such he had been inclined to go as per Miyazato tradition. He didn’t like it. He never would. The taste in his mouth was sour, he was surrounded by people and ideas larger than he or the Miyazato would ever be. Surrounded by those that truly ran the country while he fussed over the Tokugawa raising import prices on their spirits or the local taxation law updates.

He moved quietly through the crowd, depositing his empty glass in the waiting hands of a server before he moved toward the head of the lands. The young Empress of the Empire, Kiyomi Homura. He had reservations about approaching her, reasons to stay away that none of the Miyazato would have argued with, he didn’t trust her just like the rest of his kin. A Chonobi in the highest seat of the Empire, part of a disconnected peoples from the true beating heart of the country. She didn’t represent them, she never would, he wondered ,was she aware of that fact? He shook his head slightly, but he couldn’t shake the feeling it would be rude not to at least express his gratitude for extending her invitation to the Miyazato once more.

He found the Empress relatively alone, a few Sworn Swords stood nearby in case there was trouble, but for the most part she was free of a prying presence. He bowed as he approached, “Your Majesty.” he remained with his head down, waiting permission from the Empress to continue.

Taking a sip of the mild alcoholic drink, Kiyomi pondered over tomorrow. There wasn't much importance planned for tomorrow, except that she wanted to spend a few hours in the city. Browsing through the various shops and establishments and just enjoy a few hours of her responsibilities.

"Hm?" Turning half around as a man approached and bowed before her. The usual courteous smile dawned on Kiyomi's lips as she made a small bow back, gracefully bending a bit through her legs. Her sharp gaze quickly eyed the man in front of her. But he didn't come over as any of the prominent clan leaders. For a second, there was a silence as the young monarch seemed to just be content with staring at the man."Forgive me but I have a hard time to recall you, good sir. Would you be so kind to give me your name, as title perhaps?" Holding her glass with two hands, she would wait for the response of the man.

Moru smiled as he seemed to be inspected by the Empress before shaking his head slightly as if to signal there was no need to worry about not knowing him, “My apologies Your Grace, I should have introduced myself first.” he placed a hand to his chest as he spoke, “My name is Miyazato Moru, Representative of the Miyazato Clan, it’s a small Clan, a handful of families spread about the Empire.” he stated as he moved his hand back to his side. It was odd, he was twice this girls senior, a mere child stood in front of him, but a misstep here could ruin an adult. Or an entire clan. Moru stifled a laugh at the idea of having such power and being so young at the same time.

His thoughts behind him he continued, “I was wondering if I could get a few minutes of your time?” he asked politely.

There were the witty words that he indeed should have presented himself but Kiyomi decided to not play that game now. Her eyes slightly narrowed as she searched her mind and memory for the name of Miyazato. Only what she could recall was that it was tied to the Way of Fire. Which she only knew because of her previous study on that particular religion. "I suppose it won’t do any harm. And I have ample time right now, so please." Making a subtle gesture, she nodded. "You got my attention, good sir."

Moru nodded slightly, an informative gesture both acknowledging the time he had been given as well as conveying his satisfaction with the answer. He thought for a moment as he stood before deciding on what he had already decided on ten times prior. “I was wondering if you took part in the celebration of the Week of Fire?” he asked curiously, his hands coming up to each other at his waist. “I admittedly don’t live near the Capital, so as you can imagine news of your doings doesn’t always make it further away.” he smiled.

"I will admit that I have done some reading and one or two talks about the Way of Fire. But I have never ever participated at the Week of Fire." Kiyomi replied, at first, "I do consider it but my agenda is quite filled. That and a good sir as you must realise how precarious it is for a monarch of a different, like me, to participate with another faith’s important days or weeks." The smile would grow slightly. "But do you think that somebody like me would be able to participate in your religion’s week?"

He didn’t want to believe her. To believe that the Empress of his homeland knew barely anything of his religion. It had to be a joke correct? A bad joke played by a Chonobi on a Taika? His head swam for a moment. “Absolutely Your Grace.” he replied simply. He moved a hand to motion to everyone around them, “The Way of Fire does not discriminate against non-Believers. Quite the contrary, we quite enjoy their company.” he said with a smile.

He could picture the festival he and his sons had recently broken down following the end of the Week of Fire. The smell of the food stalls on the final night. The children with their sparklers and the distinct tang of sulfur in his nostrils as they ran by. “Many of those that enjoy the Holy Week with us are not of the Faith, it doesn’t mean that we can’t all enjoy the festivities.” he frowned a little, “I can’t begin to understand both the busy schedule you need to contend with and the security risks it must impose upon you and your diligent staff to attend such a large event, but you really should try and make it out next year.” he nodded to Kiyomi, “It would be beneficial to your image across the Lands to attend more than just Chonobi holidays, although I’m sure you’re aware of such.” he smiled on, unsure if that had been unbecoming of his position or not.

"Against non-believers," Kiyomi repeated slowly but no true indication of those words had slighted her. Taking a sip of her drink, she would continue to listen to the Miyazato. Showing a hint of curiosity, Kiyomi wondered about something. "It is a nice suggestion. But have you ever tried to attend to a Chonobi holiday, sir Miyazato?" The teen asked, the smile on her lips still present.

Moru wasn’t quite sure what the young Empress meant by repeating her words, but after a moment of pondering it he decided to move on to her question, taking to long to answer could be seen as rude. He blinked and gazed over Kiyomi for a moment before focusing back on her, “I’m afraid it isn’t as easy to involve yourself in the dealings of Chonobi Faith as it is in the dealings of the Way of Fire. Where one you will find open doors and willing hearts, the other you will find…” he didn't feel the need to sugarcoat himself with the Empress on a matter such as this. If no one had made her aware of this, or she hadn’t figured it out herself which he was pretty sure she had, then he would have to let her know.

“Disdain? Distrust?” he wasn’t sure exactly what it was, a sense of wrong, as if he had done something to the Chonobi that caused them all to hate him in particular, “A sense of being an outsider.” he frowned, “I don’t mean to be rude, but that’s exactly what I will end up being, your faith and your culture are not as… inclusive… as the Way of Fire, as Taika to an extent.” he bowed apologetically, “I would certainly enjoy a chance to experience some of your holidays if given the chance, but as of yet I have not been afforded the chance to take part in any Your Grace.”

The smile grew even more as Kiyomi’s eyes narrowed for a moment. "I see. That’s a pity. I am certain you would have loved some of our religious events. Though some tend to be a tad involved around drinking. Anyhow," Kiyomi lightly shook her head as she continued. "I would be delighted. But my knowledge is probably so slim about the Way of Fire. You see, I am a non-believer. How would I fair, if we disregard my current vocation, among a crowd of believers? I am not in any sense particularly fond of denouncing my own gods nor wish to disrespect yours, good sir."

Moru frowned. Was she truly a child? Did she really not understand? Or was she playing him as a fool? The Empress had to have taken classes and been taught by some of the most experienced diplomats the Empire had to offer long before she held the first Clan meetings. “I’m unsure if you misunderstand or you’re simply toying with me Your Grace.” he felt bad, as if he had somehow mislead her thoughts to that of trying to convert her, “The Miyazato haven’t tried to convert any Chonobi for a long time, the last time it ended in the spilling of blood, for the most part Miyazato blood.I don’t think that’s something a Miyazato will ever try again” he said as he seemed to stare through the girl.

“I was merely asking if you had had a chance to enjoy the festivities afterwards, on the final day of the Week of Fire? The larger Shrines hold festivals that are open to all.” he smiled, “Festival games, and food stands. Usually topped with a fireworks display that goes unmatched in most areas for the rest of the year. I didn’t expect that you would sit in on our worships, although I certainly wouldn’t say you can’t, and would be impressed if you prove me wrong. Even if you don’t believe, it doesn’t mean you can’t learn a thing or two from another’s faith, it’s the same reason I would very much enjoy to attend a Chonobi holiday so I can better understand the elusive culture that currently holds the throne.” he bowed and chuckled a little as he rose, “And I can handle my alcohol Your Grace, I run an Inn afterall.”

A second of silence followed as Kiyomi seemed to consider his words. "You said that the Week of Fire is held next year, didn’t you? How about this. If I will participate then you want to be there. I could arrange a theologian but those tend to be dull and not really the gregarious types. But then I will be your guide for a Chonobi holiday. Though," The smile turned a bit wry. "I would obviously need to consider what kind of holiday is similar to yours. But please," the voice of the teen seemed to become more upbeat, as she continued. "What is it like? The week of Fire? What do you like the most about it and why?" Raising her glass slightly, Kiyomi locked her eyes on Moru. "I am willing to bet that it is the fireworks." She added, a sliver of an amusement tone being present.

“I’m sure they’re dreadful.” Mrou agreed about the theologian. He was more than a little lost at the Empress. It annoyed him slightly, he settled on that she was toying with him rather than truly unawares of what he was talking about. “I could do that for you Your Grace.” he agreed, the prospect of being allowed into a Chonobi holiday fascinating him slightly but he moved his mind back to the Empress, “The holiday doesn’t need to be similar. Nothing is gained from staying within one’s comfort zones.” he nodded before taking a little bit of time to think on her question about the Week of Fire.

“At its base, it’s a five day long celebration. The first four days are ceremonies and worship services, interesting if you’re willing to sit through hours of talk on our view on the creation of everything.” he paused, and tilted his head slightly back and forth, “The fifth day is the real big event. The festival I spoke of takes place on the fifth day, the final day of the week of celebration. As for my favorite part…” he raised a hand to his forehead as he thought, taking nearly a minute before he smirked and raised a finger into the air, “I’d say my favorite part is the children that make it to the festival. They have quite the blast between the games and fireworks. They’re pure joys most of the night until they realize they should have been sleeping hours ago... my second favorite would be the things you catch when the younger couples think no one is looking to the ground during the fireworks.” he grinned, leaving the Empresses imagination to figure out what he meant, although he really only meant the loving embraces many shared during the fireworks display.

Taking a last sip from her drink, Kiyomi subtly nodded to silently agree with that nothing was gained from staying in one’s comfort zones. Then again, she had a comment at the ready about it but decided against it. Hearing about the Week of Fire, Kiyomi’s eyes lowered for a moment as she pondered about something. "I would be lying if I stated that I wasn’t curious. But how would an outsider be able to partake in those talks of how.. everything is created?" Raising her gaze to meet that of Moru, the amusement had been replaced by a polite but more serious tone. "But the fireworks, I would be most delighted to see those. I do remember seeing some fireworks when I used to live more in the city, of Konohagakure. Yet, I don’t like the particular loud ones. Sadly, I don’t see the point of something that just pops a hard sound without anything colourful to it." She said, half thinking about the small firecrackers that some kids used to have.

"As for the comfort zone, though. I do think it would be most interesting perhaps to witness how some of the Chonobi culture celebrates a holiday around the dawn of a new year. I could easily arrange it. It is even in Konohagakure, which will be less of a worry for you regarding travel, right?"

Moru still wasn’t sure if she was simply screwing with him or was unsure of what he had said earlier, he didn’t want to doubt his Empresses’ cognitive ability, but it was getting to a point that he felt like he was repeating the same things just worded differently, “There’s a lot to be learned from simply listening Your Grace. These aren’t exactly events that you would talk and ask questions during, the worships I mean, a Priest of the Way of Fire and perhaps a few speakers will talk and tell the tale, as well as a few other stories and monologues.” he wasn’t sure how far he needed to go at this point for her. She couldn’t be dumb, she’s the Empress afterall. He continued.

“They’re not talks.” he said again, “You simply listen. What you make of them is up to you as the listener, I can preach all I please but what I say may be interpreted differently from person to person, and as a follower of a different Faith, your interpretation will be different and rightly so. I can’t fault you for that, you’re entitled to your own beliefs after all.” he had almost closed his mouth before lifting a hand, “Although if you do end up going to the worship services, I would be more than happy to discuss them afterward with you if you have questions or concerns.” he said smiling and nodding.

He shook his head as he spoke this time, “You’re more than welcome to come and see the fireworks, those that don’t actively follow the Way of Fire and even some Chonobi come out to see them every year.” he reassured her, “And I agree, firecrackers have no real purpose other than to frighten. Our fireworks all light up the sky I assure you of such.” he bowed slightly as if to give his honor to his word.

Moru shook his head politely at her offer, “I’m sure it is closer.” he agreed, “I’d definitely take you up on the offer Your Grace.” he bowed again in thanks. How much did they drink? He had heard tales of the fierce abilities of Chonobi warriors to drink, and although he himself was no stranger to a long night of drinking, he was sure there was probably more than just drinking involved in the events. Fights perhaps? He didn’t want to ask, it would ruin the surprise of it all if it ever did come to fruition.

"Ah. Then I misunderstood. From your earlier words, you painted the idea for me that people were to, discuss the creation of everything. Not to sit and listen only," She replied at first, an apologising smile briefly present. "I must say that doesn’t really attract me. I already need to sit still and listen to all kinds of people talking." Glancing at the empty glass, the features of the monarch seemed to shift slightly. Visibly pondering, likely on the words of Moru before she decided to give the man a reply, a second later.

"However, perhaps I will indeed learn something of it. I will make sure that I keep this memorised and that next year’s Week of Fire, that I will be there." The teen then shifted her weight from her left to her right leg. "And good. Our holidays are more or less, open to one’s own interpretation as well." She wanted to state, also more active, but figured that would sour the talk. "Perhaps I could arrange that you’re allowed to visit one of our holy sites. Would only be somewhat fair, seeing that I do imagine that these shrines are holy for you and other believers? Or does your faith have more holy places?"

Moru waved a hand, refusing her apology about not being interested, “Don’t worry Your Grace, only the most devout of followers attend all of the worships that week, which is normally your older adults and the elderly. Little ones and young adults don’t normally attend them all. As you say, they’re quite dry.” he stated before his eyes wandered around the room above the Empress. He felt he must have been drawing looks, the unknown member of the party talking with the Empress Herself. He turned back to give his attention to Kiyomi.

Holy sites sounded interesting. The Way of Fire didn’t have any specific ones, just the Shrines and where ever one decided to pray if they felt they needed to. “That would be correct, our Shrines are our holy sites yes. We don’t have specific locations that pertain to old stories or anything… The exact history of the Way of Fire isn’t known, and for the most part many of the Priests and followers have their own outlooks on such events to the point that trying to make solid locations for some of our tales is rather an impossible task.” he smiled and laughed a little, “We do universally like the tops of mountains. Closer to God and the Original Fire the higher you go, as well anywhere that a believer feels they need to stop and pray or gather themselves is considered to be a holy site, for we believe our God is everywhere always. If one wants to pray, then he is to be considered in the presence of God and thus the very ground he prays on is considered holy while he does.” he said and shrugged, “It’s an interesting concept, completely a normal thing to me, but I’m sure it must be confusing to you Your Grace.”.

“I would much appreciate to travel to a holy site of yours, to learn of its significance in both your peoples history and now would be most intriguing.”

For a second, Kiyomi wanted to correct the man that she was used to dry material. But it was a certain childish drive to just prove to a senior that she was more than capable to endure heavier material. "That is quite interesting. Praying in itself is something that is considered odd, to some Chonobi. But to be able to be in the presence of your god when praying," she briefly looked away, wondering about it. It somehow sounded similar to what she had heard earlier, to the natural belief of the Sato.

"But it isn’t confusing. I am known with how important prayers can be to certain folk. In general, that is. I do hope I assume correctly that prayers can different among each person of your faith?" She asked, her head slightly tilting to the left. "Oh, I do have an another question, in fact." The teen would raise her right index finger, subtly waving. "How does one actually pay homage to your God? From what I recall of my short studies is that prayers are one thing. But how is it done in other ways? I can’t really imagine worshipers of the Way of Fire to promise they will sacrifice a piece of cattle. Or to venture off to slay this or that menace."

Moru smiled as he nodded his head at the Empresses question, “In fact they are quite different from person to person,” he assured her, “some people pray for one thing, others pray for something different.” he finished before taking a moment to think on her next question. To him it was so obvious, but the Empress didn’t seem to know as much about his faith as he would have wished she did as their leader, but it was no fault of her own, she was Chonobi after all.

“We keep constant vigil over a ceremonial fire throughout the year. Rain or shine. Summer or Winter. They’re kept up at most medium sized shrines and all of the larger shrines.” he spoke down to Kiyomi, “It’s something of a sacrifice that doesn’t involve blood I guess… Just a constant sacrifice of time and effort, a constant choice to maintain a fire for our God. To show our dedication and willingness to serve him.” he said as he brought his hands together again.

She nodded, a subtle sign that she understood. Placing her left hand on her hip, she cupped her chin with her right. "I see. But what happens if the ceremonial fire stops burning? Is that considered something as a bad omen or is it simply because the priests have neglected their tasks?" She asked, her eyebrows slightly raised.

Moru hummed to himself for a moment as he wondered about the question. Personally he’d never heard of a fire going out in all his time on this green earth only as part of the holy book had he ever heard it. But he was sure it’d happened and probably was hidden from knowledge by the priests that allowed it. He shook his head, “It’s certainly a bad omen. If the Fire is allowed to go out it is written that those that allowed it lose favor in God’s eyes.” he brought a hand to his chin, “Although I couldn’t say for how long. God isn’t… the most forthcoming with his reasoning and plans.” Moru joked and waited for the Empress to answer.

Memorising that particular detail, Kiyomi was sure that it could work later in her favour. "Which deity ever is?" Kiyomi joked back, flashing a smile. "But here is to hoping that the flames will never die out. Which makes me offer if that ever happens that the crown will love to help a hand to secure her faithful subjects health." Kiyomi further added. "After all, I am not wrong that I can count on the worshippers of God. Am I?"

Moru listened intently as the young ruler spoke, even laughing a bit with her as she did. He waited for a moment before speaking, “I’m not entirely sure what any could need from the Throne that they wouldn’t be able to figure out on their own in the even that a Fire is mistended to. Disasters… Acts of God Himself are different, but if the fire is simply neglected, relighting it is all that must be done.” he shook his head, a little confused at her offer and what she may have had to gain from that.

He pondered for a few moments, wondering exactly how he could answer her final question before settling on what he believed to be the most true option available to him. “Your Majesty, I’m merely a humble Representative of the Miyazato, and even then the Miyazato are a small group. Our followers are many but in the grand scheme they are but a drop in the bucket of worshippers of the Way of Fire. I can’t give you the word of the entire populace of followers, not with total certainty.” he bowed slightly in apology, “But if it pleases you I would find it hard to believe that many followers are for some reason against the Throne and all it stands for, and if any are it is strictly their personal beliefs, not that of the Way of Fire.” he assured her.

It stayed silent for a second. The jade coloured eyes of Kiyomi slightly darkened as well narrowed slightly. But then her smile suddenly grew as she nodded. "It warms my heart to hear that! After all, religion has its place and is important for all. But if we can’t live in peace with each other, then I fear for the future generations." The young monarch said. "Which does remind me that the refugees of the Claw country are of the same faith. Already some measures have been taken to take care of them. Could I perhaps rely on the Miyazato to aid those poor souls, that flee to the Empire to avoid religious persecution and misery? "

Refugees? He’d heard tidings of a crisis growing in the Fang and Claw countries, but never more than rumors until now. It seemed that the Claw country refugees were facing religious persecution. He frowned and raised a question to the Empress, “Your Majesty, as much as it pains me so to hear of this, the Miyazato are not large enough to be able to sustain refugees on our own…” he gestured to the massive and ornate room in which they stood, “We have little in the way of funds that don’t go directly back into the Shrine or sustaining our families and workers.” he brought his hand back down and faced the young girl once more. “If you can give me more information on things such as the flow of refugees and the numbers, I can work with the nearest Shrines to the Claw and we can work out ways to help and care for these refugees with the help of our nearby towns and worshippers.” he offered. He wasn’t sure how this would work out. If they succeeded in caring for refugees at the Empresses behest, then surely they would be owed a favor from the Throne itself, but he wasn’t sure if the fact she was the Throne meant she was above such normal customs as owing a favor for a deed carried out on their behalf.

"Oh, of course not. It would be most unrealistic as unfair to request the entire Miyazato families to pour their effort and resources to aid those refugees." Kiyomi shook her head lightly. "I meant if you have a priest or two to spare. Those refugees are being welcomed by people that don’t share the same faith. I believe it will add to some of their comfort if they are helped or have contact with fellow faithful of your God," the teen further added to her answer. "Of course, if the Miyazato are unable to perform such charity, then it is fine. I will see if I can’t arrange some others to help me perform this good deed."

He simply shook his head in response, “That is bar far a much easier task then I had imagined, it shouldn’t be an issue at all to get two willing Miyazato out to the refugees.” he assured the Empress, “How many are you currently dealing with Your Grace?” he asked curiously as he watched the girl.

"Great! I already had some hope that the Miyazato were so generous. I will make sure that you will later receive some information with the more precise details. Most of them are still in the Rain province. Closer to home, you see." Kiyomi replied, "I don’t have the details memorised but over the six decades, I can assure that it is a steady number. But obviously, I will see to it that they are well received and treated. Now certainly that the Miyazato will add in as charity!"

Moru was at least a little happy that he had pleased the Empress, but he still wasn’t sure what he was dealing with exactly. “The Miyazato are more than happy to lend our assistance when it’s needed, else we’d be terrible followers of our own faith. Although I’d find it hard to label this as charity, it’s merely the Miyazato carrying out the Empresses wishes, lending our assistance where we are best able.” he said with a small bow. “If there is anything else you could think of that the Miyazato could lend assistance in , please Your Grace, don’t hesitate to make it known. We are but faithful servants.” he stated with a bit of flare.

"Oh?” Kiyomi’s eyes narrowed briefly. She wanted to reply back on the previous words that the man had spoken. If anything, she was having some fun despite it was mere trickery of words that they were engaging in. The fact that the man made it into that they were carrying out her wishes was something else than charity. Deciding to not further pursue it, Kiyomi flashed a friendly smile. "Your words already warm my heart, sir! I could think of some. But I don’t want to overload your clan. Not to mention, I am unable to remember every favor. You must forgive me, there are a lot of things that demand my attention outside feasts.”

He shook his head, “Your Grace, I don’t expect you to remember every small deed carried out by those you meet for the good of the realm. There are far more important matters to attend to than that of a few Miyazato preaching to refugees I’m sure.” he said before looking slightly around the feast, “Your Grace, I’m sure you have more important people and matters to attend to tonight, so I will bid you farewell in the hopes you can tend to other matters instead of being stuck with a priest such as myself.” he said respectfully before bowing again, “If ever there is anything else you may require assistance from the Miyazato with, do not hesitate to send word to our nearest establishment.” he smiled and waited for the Empresses response.

For a moment, Kiyomi wondered if she should let the man go or not. She had several more questions in mind that would be interesting to discuss with Moru. But instead, she would subtly nod before replying. "I will, sir Miyazato. May we meet soon again,” Kiyomi politely replied as she made a short and graceful bow towards the man.

Moru bowed with the Empress and held himself there until she had finished her own bow. “I pray you have a good night Your Grace.” he bowed one final time and turned to continue to wander through the party. He wondered what might come of the work they were going to do in the Rain Province. At best they may gain a new location for a shrine, at worst? They might gain nothing at all from such an act. Even so, the Empress was an interesting one and he looked forward to what she may be able to do for the country and by extension the Miyazato.[/spoili][/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox=Team 9's Meeting, maroon]
In Konohagakure, the capitol of the Empire of Akino.
A relative short collab between Talent, Chrome, Jason and Gero.

Summary:
Hiron calls his team together for a meeting. With Tentou Aburame being transferred to another team, Tomiko Hyuuga has been elected to take her place. The team is being handled in the usual way Hiron manages his team. Stern.

[spoili]
If anything, he wasn’t really that excited for it. The team had what? One or two days rest behind them after arriving in Konohagakure. There was then the newest addition to his team as Tentou Aburame was transferred to another team. Something that Hiron didn’t mind. They were in the military. Not some knitting club for grannies. Transfers were done to maximise efficiency and other reasons. His team was one to mentor and educate new operatives. Not one that was set in just operations. Though those teams were prone to changes as well. If anything, it should remind many that they weren’t fighting in a team together to make friends or anything else. They had a duty, protocols and goals to follow. If there were people who wanted to join the corps in order to make friends? Hiron hoped he would never meet such naive souls.

The meeting spot wasn’t a special one. It was near the Training Facility. A small establishment which was quite empty at noon, for most people didn’t have the luxury of relaxing when there was so much more to be done. Having already ordered a drink, Hiron waited for his team. Remembering the profiles he had studied yesterday, his mood was anything but upbeat.

Not wanting to make a bad impression on her first meeting, Tomiko made sure to try to arrive a little early to the designated point. Looking around the establishment, she slowly approached somebody who fit the description of Hiron. With the bandana on his head, it was a bit unmistakable along with the lack of many others at the establishment. Sure enough, it seemed to be who she was looking for as she approached.

Fiddling anxiously with the end of her braid, she stepped up and gave a respectful bow towards the man. ”Hon-Sama? I’m Tomiko Hyuuga, I hope I didn’t run late.” She said in a soft tone, having noticed that there wasn’t anybody else and worrying she had missed it entirely. Though that worry mixed with others in her mind as she thought about being on a team again, hopefully it would go better than the last one.

Leaving the house was a chore, more so than usual. Shikaroku had to do everything he could to avoid his mother, otherwise she would fret and fuss and it would take him an hour longer just to escape. Since his injury, she had not let him take care of anything himself. Even simple things she seemed to worry about and insisted on helping him. It was endearing, but Shikaroku was tired of feeling helpless. He could never tell his mother that, however. She’d likely have a fit and try to force him to take time off from his service, something he would not do.

The wound had not fully healed and Shikaroku was still in more pain than he dared to admit. The pills helped dull the pain, but they left him feeling numb all over and slowed his thoughts. There was also the fear in the back of his mind that he was growing more and more reliant on them. When he had first come home, he had been entirely out of it. Whacked out on the drugs the Crimson Blades had given him to keep the pain at bay. His mother had blown up then, going on and on about how unsafe being a shinobi was and screaming bloody murder about how careless his sensei was for letting this happen to him. Shikaroku had remained silent, wanting simply to rest and reflect. When he received the summons from Hiron, the Nara was at first tentative, but the chance to get out of the house was too tempting to pass up.

Pulling his shirt over top of the fresh bandage, Shikaroku peered out of the room, checking to see if his mother was around. He could hear her moving around in the kitchen and used the opportunity to sneak out the side door. Making his way through the streets, it did not take too long for him arrive at the listed destination. Entering the establishment, Shikaroku noticed Hiron along with a Hyuuga girl. Narrowing his eyes slightly, momentarily confused, the Nara took a step forward. Was this another new team member…?

Approaching the pair of them, Shikaroku simply nodded towards the Hyuuga and bowed his head slightly towards his sensei.

The last few days had left an empty feeling in the young uchiha’s stomach. When hiron had stated the mission was over, yiko had expected to be excited, or happy, some positive emotion, but it was anything but. He ended up resting at his aunt and uncles, they owned a small little flower shop in Konohagakure. They were always happy to have him over, as long as he lend a helping hand, which he didn’t mind of course, kept him busy.

He couldn’t sleep the first night, the events of the assignment kept playing over and over again in his head. The faces of each person he killed, how distinct the expression of loss of life is, and the rush of being in life or death combat. The fear of losing a comrade, it was all a lot to take in. Even though he had never made any connections, or bonded with shikaroko, he was still terrified when he watched him almost die. Being out in the field is harder than the genin had ever thought it to be, maybe if he was stronger, or faster, or even smarter shikaroko could’ve been in better condition then how he was after the mission.

The next day was full of work, mostly cleaning up the shop, assisting his aunt with the displays, and tending to customers questions. Both his aunt and uncle didn’t ask him about his work, or how it was all going. They were pretty quiet all in all, which is something Yiko appreciated, he didn’t want to talk about it anyways. He just wanted to get his work done and probably take a nap under a tree somewhere. After helping out the shop as much as he could, he recieved a summoning from Hiron for a team meeting. Letting out a small groan he grabbed his bag and headed out. He was hoping that what they were doing didn’t entail in anything to big, because that nap sounded mighty fine.

Arriving at the meeting point with both hands behind his head, he looked around “...am I even in the right place?” he squinted his eyes and spotting hiron, shikaraoko and a new figure. Was it a new team member? As he got closer he noticed it was a hyuuga memeber. His arms fell to his side as he approached, he gave a slight bow to his new sensei before speaking. “ sorry for being the last one, couldn’t exactly figure out how to get here ” he said with a slight chuckle while scratching the back of his head, hoping to lighten the mood.

The Hon threw a glance at the first that showed up. Her eyes betrayed her origin. Eyes that Hiron had a certain disdain for. But he would hide it. A calm expression was plastered on his features as he gestured to one of the chairs, at the round table at which he sat.
He took another sip of his drink. remaining silent.
The next genin that was to arrive was Shikaroku. The boy earned a nod back from Hiron as he gestured to two empty chairs, for the Nara to pick one. There was something that Hiron wanted to ask or say. But he simply raised his mug to take another sip of his drink. Letting the bitter flavour of the alcoholic beverage run over his taste buds, he would wait for the third member to show up.

Yiko Uchiha arrived but he actually spoke up in a different manner. More casual. This earned him a blank look from Hiron, who then nodded to the empty chair at the table. A waiter came but Hiron shook his head, dismissing the chance already for the genin to get something to drink.
”Alright,” He began as he straightened his back and leaned slightly forward. His gaze was stern and his voice almost harsh.
”Let me mark this clear. You all enlisted in the military. This profession isn’t about glory. Or becoming famous. Last mission has proven that you can get hurt. Seriously hurt,” Hiron locked his gaze on Shikaroku for a moment before he looked at Yiko.

”It means you got to kill to survive. Or to complete an order. Time to complain or argue? I think if you manage to do that in the heat of battle you are on a whole other level than even jounin like me.” He moved his gaze to Tomiko. ”And regardless of your origin or your goals, your first purpose is to serve the Empire. I don’t give a damn about what you guys want. You are genin. Your first priority is to learn how to follow. How to do things. I am going to teach you the way I think is best. Don’t like it? Then here is your chance.”
He leaned back slightly, his right eyebrow slightly perking up. Slowly he gestured towards the door.
”Only chance you get from me to stand up and walk away. If you don’t, it means you are willing to do what you consider your duty. To follow orders. To be fielded as a soldier and as a shinobi. But if any of you dare to stay seated and later bring shame to the colours of this nation, I will be much less kind or respectful.”

Tomiko looked for a moment at that calm expression, wondering what lay behind it. But Hiron had made it clear she was supposed to take one of the empty seats at the table. So the Hyuuga did not have long to try to figure out the details as she quietly moved to take the seat he had gestured towards. As they sat in silence, Tomiko kept her attention towards the table with occasional glances towards Hiron as hoping to catch some sort of emotion on his features. Yet no such luck. She just about ready to give up when another arrived, and her attention shifted to look at the boy just arriving.

He certainly didn’t look familiar, but the Hyuuga figured it was safe to assume he was already a part of the team. Seeing how he stopped and narrowed his eyes at her, she turned away slightly for a brief moment before looking back just in time to see him nod towards her. Tomiko gave a shy little wave in greeting before falling back into the previous silence. Her legs kicked aimlessly as they didn’t quite reach the ground while she waited for… she wasn’t sure. Another team member or for the man opposite her to start speaking?

That question was soon answered as the third member of their team arrived, seeming much more casual in his approach. As he apologized for being the last one to arrive, along with not being able to find the place it earned a small smile from the girl who gave this boy a shy wave in greeting as well. Her gaze followed the last one to his chair, trying to figure out how she felt about the boy. She caught a brief glimpse of Hiron’s features, and figured that the man wasn’t overly approving of the boy’s casual approach.

With everybody seated, the man evidently decided that it was time to speak up. Tomiko’s gaze focused on him as she listened to his little speech. Her features seemed to darken slightly as he spoke, knowing full well everything he said was true. They were just shinobi, but she still felt having your own goals wasn’t a bad thing. But she didn’t voice that opinion, simply stayed silent and listened. After he finished, Tomiko made a simple nod and stayed seated. She wasn't going to walk out now.

Taking his seat once Hiron returned his nod, Shikaroku did not react to the Hyuuga’s wave. Avoiding eye contact with the new person and Hiron, Shikaroku waited for his remaining teammate to arrive. It felt weird. He was the only member of the team still here. Everyone else had either moved on to another team or… had passed away before he could get to know them too well. Even Masami… she had been sent to the Eastern Continent when things had just started to get… more comfortable. Their betrothal had been something that Shikaroku still struggled to deal with. But as they had gotten to know each other a little more, he had become a little more at peace with it. Even beginning to enjoy her company and care about her as more than a friend.

But now… everyone was gone and Hiron-Sensei was the only one that Shikaroku was familiar with. It had jaded the Nara slightly and he didn’t really know how to respond to his newest teammates. There was every chance they’d just be gone soon anyways…

So, when Yiko arrived in a more lighthearted manner, Shikaroku did not at first respond. He nodded slightly, but that was it. Settling in, Shikaroku turned his attention to the Jounin as he began to speak. Hiron’s tone made it very clear how disappointed he was and the Nara felt a slight pain in his chest. He was disappointed. Disappointed in himself for failing. Failing the team, failing Hiron, failing himself…

When Hiron gave them the opportunity to leave, Shikaroku shifted slightly in his seat. He felt a strong temptation to get up and leave. To leave this all behind and go back to a simple life. It would be easier… he wouldn’t keep getting stabbed… Clenching his fists, Shikaroku fought the urge. While it would be easier, the boy had a duty. He would be failing even more by leaving now. He would be failing his family, his village, the entire Empire… Sighing, the Nara slumped back in his chair, resigned to stay.

Yiko could feel the jounins eyes pierce his when he was notioned to sit. Harsh, just like they all said about him. Then the man began to speak, giving them the speech. Hiron was right, there was no fame or glory in the field of killing. The whole killing part never sat easy with yiko, and he still had issues over taking the lives of others, and the past few days has shown that the young Uchiha was gonna have a hard time getting over that. He didn’t understand how Hiron dealt with it, or how anyone did, It just felt morally wrong no matter how you put it, taking lives is just wrong. In the end though, it’s them or him, and the genin understood that clearly, but acting upon it might be a different story.

He was surprised that Shikaroku was even at the meeting, it was surely impressive, Yiko was almost a hundred percent sure that he would have been incapacitated or bedridden for a few days. And now their previous team member was replaced with this Hyuuga, he could only assume that making friends or even acquaintances was gonna be hard if thats how most of the teams worked. Yiko observed the girl, she gave him this feeling, something he couldn’t quite get rid of, nor could he stop glancing back at her every now and again while Hiron spoke.

The man gave them the option to leave, and man did yiko want to take that chance, he would have rather spent the day under a tree, maybe alongside a river, or just casually strolling around town with no end goal in sight for the day, relaxing, but what would his mother think of him? And especially, what would his father think of him if he had done that. The genin adjusted his posture after the offer was made, but remained quiet, and glanced around the table at his team, especially the hyuuga, wondering if maybe they would take their leave, but none did. This just made the boy wonder what was holding them back, what is stopping them from just leaving? The genin had his, but what about the others? More importantly what kept hiron from dropping it all when he was a genin. He hoped to eventually find out.

None of them moved to walk away. Hiron let the silence between them linger for some moments longer. Moving his gaze at his team, Hiron would finally speak up after a minute of silence. ”Very well. Then we can consider this meeting almost done. We will soon have two additions to the team. I expect that you lot will follow my orders and not break any protocol. Soon enough we will have another mission. Before that, I will issue a training regarding communications and some basics. You all are required to be on standby. Regardless of what happens, you will need to respond on a moment’s notice to rally for action. Questions?”

Tomiko sat in silence for a long few moments after Hiron had spoken. He certainly did not seem to be the most approachable man out there, and she felt a bit uneasy about the man. Perhaps it was the way he was so stern, or the fact he certainly didn't seem to care about any of them. Still, she was certain he wouldn't have gotten this position without being more than capable. ”Apart from following orders and not breaking protocol. What else do you expect from us as students, Hon-sama?” Thinking it might be best to have it made clear exactly what was expected of them. Though at the same time she worried her question might seem to be dumb, she still thought it to be something worthy of getting out of the way.

Glancing over towards the Hyuuga, Shikaroku tilted his head to the side slightly. ”Don’t die...” he said quietly in response, the sarcasm clear in his voice. Turning away, he folded his arms across his chest. He had already been through this routine before and, as such, did not have any questions. Time would tell whether or not these new team members would last longer than any of the others...

The first question that came was from Tomiko. Earning her a frowned look from Hiron. "That you pull out cotton out of your ears. Follow my orders and keep your belly-aching to yourself. I am not going to be some father-figure for any of you. I am going to train you three to be able to endure the hardship that one faces in this career of war." Hiron didn’t hide any of his disdain for such a question. Getting up, he would make a vague gesture that they should scramble. "Now, out with you all. That was it for today."

[/spoili][/fieldbox]
 
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[fieldbox="Ahhhh!, pink, solid"]
Kitana Riojin
Chuunin of Team 22
South of Amegakure

She internally screamed inside as the note would be handed to her by one of the servants. A message from Etsu to meet up at this basket weaving place, with hardly any details to go off of. No indication of what they would be doing or who was coming, internally she was already panicking wondering what they would be doing now. She was so certain what they have been doing wasn't being given to her by her brother at all, she was too frightened to ever ask him if he had given her any mission for the team as of late. She only knew he came home furious one day after his own mission. So if something that simple got him pissed then she could only assume that what Etsu was doing would break her brother's mind.

Preparing herself as best she could, going as far as to take some paper from her brothers office while he wasn't in. While she had no clue what was going to happen, she didn't want to leave anything to risk. This could either be a really tame day out, or hell on earth with Etsu it was one or the other. Telling the servants she was heading out to go see her sensei, she would start running not wanting to be late to whatever it was that was going down.

She would arrive on the scene of their meetup, taking the time to slow down and catch her breath. Who knew fear running would be so tiring? She would move closer to her sensei who was waiting up ahead and noticed she was the first one to arrive this time. It then dawned on her that this could be just Etsu and her. Fear would slip in some more as some nervous laughter would come out of her, as she rubbed the back of her head. "M-morning sensei. H-how are you? Are we waiting for the others to show up?" She would ask while secretly pleading for that to be the case.[/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox="Gedric meets a woman, red, solid"]

A collab between Gero and Conman!

Summary:
His launderer having quit her job, Gedric is forced to look for someone to clean his clothes. After finding a small shop, he meets a woman, has some lunch, and promises to return within a couple of days.


A heavy sigh escaped her as she would bend forward. The cold breeze of the season passed by but she was focusing on her work. Hanging the clothes to dry, her eyes were briefly narrowed. Due to the height and poor balance that the stool provided, she had to focus to not fall. Despite having done this countless of times. Tamika would whip up a small smile as she was done with the first basket. Stepping off the stool, she would continue her work. It didn’t take more than a dozen of minutes before the racks were filled up with clothes hanging to dry.

Placing the baskets in each other, the woman would head back into her small workshop. The interior gave away that the business of Tamika wasn’t doing that well as some other laundries that could be found in the city. But with the loyal customisers that came to her to wash their clothes, sheets and other necessities, Tamika couldn’t complain. Taking a seat on a nearby wooden chair, Tamika released another sigh. There was still another basket that she had to clean and rub out of stains. Deciding, however, to take a break, her gaze traveled to a small book on the desk nearby.

The bell on the door rang as a man stepped through the door, accompanied by two armed guards who stood off to the side of the door now. He carried a basket in his arms, filled with clothes, despite the fact that he was obviously wealthy. He had a kind, exasperated smile on his face as he greeted the woman behind the counter of the interior. ”My apologies for the sudden intrusion, however the launderer I had hired quit today, and I need to have some of my clothes cleaned. I’d be willing to pay handsomely.” He said as he set the wicker basket onto the counter. ”Forgive me, I didn’t introduce myself! My name’s Gedric.”

The sound of the bell ringing caused Tamika to look in the direction of the entrance. Rising up from her seat, her features showed that she was quite wary of spotting the unknown men. The ice blue eyes of the woman first moved her gaze to the armed guards before back to the man that spoke to her. It remained silent for a moment as the woman seemed to weigh the situation before responding. ”Okay,” she said, her voice betraying her distrust about the situation, ”I euhm,” she gestured to the simple desk before she moved behind it. Trying to recompose herself, she flashed a polite smile.

”I can try to do what I can, sir. When would you like your clothes to be done? The fastest that I can promise is two days.” Tamika said, trying to sound a bit more confident, even while she kept throwing glances at the armed guards, ”You won’t find anybody better in getting off stains. For a small price, I can even try to fix some stitches. Nobody will ever notice a thing, good sir!”

He smiled and took a seat, leaving the basket on the counter. Then he saw the darting glance she kept making towards his men and then nodded to them. ”My apologies! They must be frightening you. I should have known better.” He turned his head to the two. ”John, Eldon, go on and head back to the guild, i’ll return shortly.” The two men nodded and then left. Next, Gedric pulled out his purse. ”It would be wonderful if you could repair them, same with the stains. Two days would be just fine of course. What is your typical price for the laundering?”
Staying silent, for she wasn’t too sure how to respond. But upon seeing that both the armed guards took their leave, it did somewhat to make the atmosphere a little bit less tense. Glancing at the bag, Tamika then shifted her gaze to the basket. ”I charge two silver yen for each basket. Two more for making sure that every stitch is completely invisible.” She replied. There seemed to be something on her mind but she decided to continue speaking up. ”You will need to pick the clothes up. I used to hire some Academy students as couriers. But seems that I am unable to find any that are willing to do that for me, these days.”

Gedric nodded for a moment, then sorted through his bag of coin shortly. He decided, after having difficulty finding the coins that he wanted, that he’d soon have to get some of this coin exchanged. You couldn’t pay for squat with gold from the Akinian Empire here. A moment after this decision, he withdrew from his bag three golden yen, and set them on the table. ”It is unfortunate that you’d have such trouble getting help. Some of the materials used to make the clothes are fine, and i’d like them to match. There is one golden yen for your payment, one for any of the materials needed, and a final one for any troubles caused.” He looked at her ”I presume that will be enough?”

Tamika stared at the coins. She had caught sight of the golden coins but would slowly reach for it.Slowly, she would shove them towards Gedric. ”Mighty kind of you, sir,” she began, her eyes locked on his, ”But four silver will suffice. I have a good enough income to suffice for myself.” Realising what she had said, Tamika would straighten her back and smoothened the apron she was wearing. A gesture that made it clear that she was feeling slight uncomfortable. ”I don’t take such huge tips.”

He looked down at the money, then smiled and shook his head. He selected one of the golden yen from the three, picked it up, and then placed it back into the purse. ”I will lower myself to two golden yen, but that is it. I have given you quite the workload, for two days of work you have received. I intend to pay you two golden yen for it, please do not seek to insult me by refusing this.” He looked into her eyes. ”It was a gift for your generosity, not meant to insinuate you could not support yourself.”

The eyes of the woman narrowed slightly. Remaining silent after the response of Gedric, Tamika would cross her arms out front of her chest. Glancing at the golden yens that still laid on the desk, the woman wasn’t so sure if she should accept it. But eventually, she budged. ”Very well but next time, please. Just silver yen. I am also sorry if I offended, you sir.” Or should she call him lord? Placing the two silver yens away, she couldn’t say that she was curious about him. ”May I ask who will pick up your order, sir? It will be a dreadful affair if somebody came and would walk away with your laundry.”

He smiled to at her ascent. ”Thank you, no need to apologize. I will come by to collect my laundry, it would indeed be a shame if someone else walked away with it, some of that clothing is very valuable, and I beg that you take your utmost care with it.” He thought for a moment, then continued. ”I did not catch your name? Ms?” He left the last word open to be finished by Tamika.
”Yachi,” Was Tamika’s answer. For a moment, she wasn’t sure how to continue from here. ”Good. I will take good care of it. Certainly for such a ridiculous payment, sir?” the woman asked in return, her voice trailing off at the end. Allowing Gedric to fill in his surname.

”Palston Hon.” He answered, chuckling at her comment. ”I appreciate it.” He put his hand inside of his cape and withdrew a small pocket watch. After reading the time, he replaced the watch back into wherever he had drawn it from. ”Ach, but my watch has stopped working. You wouldn’t happen to have the time would you?”

That was a name that didn’t seem familiar. Two surnames even, Tamika thought to herself. The question was met with a faint smile as the woman placed her hands on her hips. ”That depends. I might have some time.” The woman tried to jest. She threw a look at her old clock. ”It is early afternoon, sir.. Palston Hon,” she said the two names slowly, trying to mimic the way how he pronounced the first. ”Never heard about you before. May I ask where you are from?” She decided to ask. The business that she ran was usually only visited by those who lived nearby. And nobody had two surnames, so far she knew.

Gedric laughed at the woman’s joke. ”Thank you, I appreciate it.” He said in response to her answer. The next that came, was slightly unexpected. ”Well, to be entirely honest I was born in the Akinian Empire some years ago to my parents in the Hon Clan of the region. That was long before I came here before.” He said in response. ”What of yourself? Are you from here?”

Her smile as confidence grew as Gedric seemed to not mind the joke. When he said that he was born in the Empire, the smile fainted as a frown knitted itself on her brow. ”Born and raised in these parts, sir,” she began, deciding to answer his questions before firing her own off, ”I have spend my entire life in these parts of the city. Inherited this business from my ma and pa. Seeing that it was good enough for them, I decided to take it over.” Before she could continue, a sensation ran through her abdomen. Luckily, her stomach wouldn’t produce a growl. ”It is time for me to enjoy some lunch. But I must say, I am quite curious. An Imperial, so far north. Would you be interested to perhaps join me?”

He nodded. ”It would be my pleasure to join you.” He thought back to his childhood for a moment. ”When I was younger I fought for the Akinians in the great war.” He sighed and gave her a sheepish smile. ”When the war was over, my lust for battle wasn’t finished, so I became a mercenary. I ended up fighting for the Lightning more often than not. I became good friends with the Kage in that way. Before I knew it, I ended up taking a more permanent profession here in the city.” He nodded towards the door. ”I am curious, you said that it was good enough for your parents and you decided to stay with this business, but don’t you ever think of what adventures you’ve missed staying here?”

”My, a soldier,” Tamika replied. She would gesture him to stay. Figuring that the wooden desk could make do for as make-shift table, the woman would briefly walk away. Only a minute or so later returning with two wooden plates, a piece of bread as well some other necessities. It wasn’t much though in variety in terms of sandwich spread. Which visibly made Tamika a bit fret before she sat down. Listening to his story, Tamika would continue to lay down the wooden plate, together with a knife in front of Gedric. ”Mhm. I got loyal customers. A roof over my head and a place to sleep. More than what some others can boast,” she said as she would start to use a knife to slice some bread off before offering it to Gedric.
”The city provides enough excitement for me. Two years ago with that whole Shoji occupation and affair. Then the Great War. No sir, I am not that fond of dangers. I know how to find my own mild excitement.” Was Tamika’s answer. She would begin slicing a piece of bread for herself as she brought up another question. ”What is it like though? This… Empire? And being friends with people so high and mighty?” It did explain how he was able to afford himself to pay her two golden yen, Tamika thought to herself.

He smiled and nodded in thanks and took a bite of the bread that she gave him, listening to her as she continued to speak. ”My time in the Empire? Well, let’s see. I lived there for some twenty years, but I really only lived in one section of it. It’s nice, stable, well managed. That was some years ago though. As far as my friends… well, I find it tiring. You often get drawn into conflicts that are not your own, and are forced to pick sides among powerful people. Sometimes it can be difficult.”

”Twenty years?” The woman repeated as she tried to imagine leaving her own home. She tried to gauge his age now that he had stated how long he had lived there. Pausing her motions for a moment, putting her knife down, Tamika threw a sceptical look. ”You best not jesting with me sir.” There was an amused tone evident in Tamika’s voice, despite her words. ”I never got much of politics. My pa used to say that only old men engage into politics and spend their days squabbling about crumbles.” The woman paused for a second as she rests her gaze on Gedric. ”But please, do tell me more about this homeland of yours. Is it much different? Warmer? Colder?” Tamika asked, her curiosity growing. Taking a small bite, she would lean a bit forward as a glint became visible in her eyes.

He laughed a bit. ”I would not lie to you, lest my clothes be dyed a new color!” He thought on her words for a moment, then sighed. He studied the woman, noticing how beautiful she was under the plain clothes of a launderer. Her hair was a golden color, and her eyes were the color of stormclouds. ”Your father seems like a very wise man.” He remarked, before turning his thoughts to his homeland. ”It is warmer there, I recall, and the people are friendly….” He paused, frowning for a moment, and then realized he really didn’t remember much of his homeland. It had been years since he’d been there, years since he’d even set eyes on it. Afterall, once he had left that country for the life of a mercenary, he had not returned. Too many memories of the campaigns he had fought in. He faltered and seemed to stare off into the distance for a bit, before returning to the present, giving a small smile. ”Sorry, I zoned out there. I can’t particularly remember a whole lot about my homeland. It has been many years since I visited it.” He said.

A smile dawned on the woman’s lips after clearing her mouth. ”That is an interesting suggestion. Dying clothes. But I got to keep up my good reputation, sir,” she replied. She listened to his words as she took another bite. When he stated that he didn’t remember much, there was a bit of disappointment visible ”It is okay though. Greybeards usually start to forget matters.” She replied. ”I do need to head to work soon.” Takima brought up, an apologising smile crossing her thin lips.

The man let out several laughs at the comment on his beard. ”My beard is not so grey, is it?” He nodded in reply to her next remark. ”Aye. I need to get to work as well, my own work cannot do itself unfortunately.” He stood. ”IT has been a pleasure, thank you for lunch Tamika. I will see you again when I come to pick up my laundry yes?”

The eyebrows formed an amused frown on Tamika, as if she was focusing on spotting a grey hair in Gedre’s beard. Standing up as well, the woman would nod and follow up with a light bow towards the man, her hands folded together in front of her stomach. ”Yes. You are welcome. I will have it done within two days.” The woman flashed a polite smile. ”Take care, sir.”

”And you as well.” Gedric return to the woman, and then turned and left the shop, leaving his laundry for the woman.
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[fieldbox="Change of Location?, #1589FF"]
Yoshikuni Sadako | Amegakure Team 22 Chuunin | Akinian Empire | Amegakure


Reading the message, Kuni wondered why the place they were supposed to gather at changed. Before, Etsu told them they would meet at the training facility today, and now it was at Tani's Basket. They were still required to bring full gear, so only thing that changed had been the location. Perhaps it was a more convenient spot to meet in regards to whatever it was Etsu had planned for them? She couldn't say.

After gearing up and using what little time she had to say bye to Eiji and Sachi, she went out and begun making her way towards Tani's Basket. Her way begun as the same one to "Sadako's Raining Tea Library", but she took a left turn less than halfway towards the place. It made her wonder if she will have time to continue cleaning the place up soon, but she knew she would have to wait and see how today goes.

Several minutes later Kuni arrived near Tani's Basket. She spotted Etsu and next to her Kitana pretty quickly and when she approached them, she caught the last bit of what Kitana asked "Well, if it's any consolation, I'm here now!" She said from behind Kitana before moving to stand next to her teammate "Yoshikuni Sadako, reporting for duty." Kuni added while looking at Etsu before giving a smile to Kitana and still wondering what could've caused the change in location.[/fieldbox]
 
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Megumi Omari
Newcomer of Team 22 - Amegakure | Amegakure, going to Rani's Basket


Today was the day Megumi would be meeting her new team. Though it did confuse her a bit that she was joining a team that was already full. Reading the note she had received she was to meet her team at Tani's Basket. She had heard of the place and how it was a simple building for weaving baskets. Getting ready she gathered her tools and gear. Megumi looked at a map to make sure she was going in the right direction to the establishment. Glancing up she saw the name of the building down the street and proceeded to walk towards it. The genin knew nothing about her team except their names, though she wasn't as nervous as she should have been. If anything she was happy to already be on a team so soon.

As she approached she saw the leader, Etsu, who was also a jounin and two others. Slowly she made her way closer and smiled. Bowing to the group she straightened back up. "I am guessing you are from my team? I am Megumi Omari, it's nice to meet you." Her blade bound to her side and her pouches full of tools. Aside from that she kept her gear light and preferred it that way. "Etsu, right? I know you delivered the note to meet here and are the jounin in charge of our team. We haven't met properly yet, though I am sure this works fine."

Looking over her team she could tell they had experience under their belts, which was a relief. Megumi felt she was still not quite ready but would do her best. Her training with Chu was going smoothly but would she be able to keep up the tradition of their sword style in actual combat? From time to time she still caught herself using old techniques from her old home and the genin wanted to make Chu proud by becoming a great swordsman. Her demeanor was soft and kind as she stood there and waited for the others to speak.
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Rini Yoto
Genin of Team 22 - Amegakure | Amegakure, meeting up with Team Etsu.




Rini made her way towards the meeting point. She was somewhat recovered, in terms of physical manner. But she wasn't feeling at her best. The note of Etsu hadn't informed her of that they would go on a mission or another training. She prefered a training on a mission. But it was impossible to think that she would never be deployed on a mission again. Deciding to try not to worry herself, Rini head towards the location.

Tani's Basket. Not a place that she was familiar with. Baskets weren't uncommon but Rini couldn't remember that she had ever purchased one. Spotting Etsu, Kitana and Kuni, Rini frowned as she spotted another figure standing in close proximity. She kept walking at a brisk pace towards the team. In time to hear the unknown figure speak to the team. Taking a second, Rini would wait to be sure she could speak up.

"Yoto, Yabut-sensei," Rini offered a quick and resolute salute. Throwing a sideways look at Kitana, Rini wanted to ask the chuunin if she was aware what they would be doing today. But Rini focused her attention on Etsu. She wagered that the woman would bring up why she had decided to rally the team together.
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Tomiko Hyuuga | Team 9 Genin | Konohagakure, Hyuuga Compound

A post for Tomiko which covers the days after Hiraku's funeral and ends just before Team 9's training. Its not too massive, but is in a spoiler anyways. Enjoy!​


It had only been a day since they laid Hiraku to rest, and yet she was already being summoned by the elders. Dressing in something simple, yet more formal than she normally did the girl let out a soft sigh. Hiraku’s Will. That was why she was being summoned no doubt, or at least the part regarding herself. The Elders would want to have a hearing about the new heir and succession rights. Tomiko frowned and shook her head slightly as she stared blankly into the mirror, unable to make herself move from that spot. Small hints of doubt and worry could be seen on her features. I'm not ready. Were the only thoughts running through her mind as she slowly made her way downstairs and out of the house.

It wouldn't be a terribly long walk to her destination, but Tomiko felt like each step just kept getting heavier. Yet the girl wasn’t even sure what she was so worried about. The results of the hearing? Maybe. Letting out a long sigh she trudged onwards, eventually approaching a rather small building. The Elders’ pavilion. It's design was simple, yet ornate. With a dome atop the building, which she knew had a hole in the top such that the Sun would always illuminate the interior. It was said this connection allowed the Elders to discern the will of Tian himself. With a small frown the girl shook her head and sent a small prayer towards the sun for today to go better than she thought it would. Then with a deep sigh the girl forged onwards into the small building, yet it somehow seemed to stir a feeling of dread as if some terrible beast lurked within those halls.

Her light footsteps made soft echoes against the polished stone of the building. Heralding her arrival just before she timidly made her way through two heavy wooden doors and into the hearing chambers. The entire room was a large dome, and where it would’ve met at the top was the hole which the sun’s rays effortlessly flowed into the building. Along the domed ceiling was various murals depicting the tales which she grew up with. Of Tian’s creation of their lands, the Sage’s travels, and the gifting of the Byakugan to Ji Gong. Though she had seen these murals before, their intricate details and the way they seemed almost lifelike still stole her breath every time.

So lost was she in her thoughts that the sudden sound wood on stone caused the Hyuuga to yelp and jump slightly. Her face flushed deeply as she scurried forwards to the center of the room. Looking around, Tomiko noticed it to completely devoid of life save for her and three old men. The raised stadium seating that wrapped around the central pit where she stood were completely empty. There would be no jury today it seemed. She swallowed nervously as she stared up at the two sitting behind a heavy wooden desk, also raised above her little pit. Then the third at a small desk to their right. The scribe and the two Elders of the Clan. Swallowing she gave an elegant bow towards the elders, remaining in the position until she heard one of them speak up.

”Qì ér.” Outcast.

That was the simple greeting which the girl received from one of the two men in the dark robes before her, before the other spoke up as well.

”Biǎojiě” Cousin.

This one from the elder of the Hidarite, and much kinder than the one from the other elder in the room. After but a moment of silence, the Hidarite Elder spoke once more to Tomiko. ”Stand, Tomiko Hyuuga of the Hidarite. Step into Tian’s light, and today we shall decide upon the developments from our Fallen Leader’s Will. Whether or not you shall be named the leader of our clan. We the Zhǎnglǎo declare this hearing to have started. In accordance with our laws, you may make your case.” The man said, before returning to his seat with his hands on the table before him. Though he wore a slight grin, as if he knew something the girl did not.

The hearing wouldn’t last long. With a lack of proper defense on Tomiko’s part, it was an easy decision for the Elders. Slowly the Hidarite Elder stood, looking towards the Hyuuga who seemed to be trying to make herself even smaller under their dismissive glare. ”Biǎojiě. The Elders have decided that your claim will not be ratified. On account of your status as a Qì ér among other circumstances, we will select another to lead our people. That being said, the elders have also decided that you may remain with the clan despite your status as a Qì ér. This hearing is over, may Tiāntáng guide you.” The man said before sitting back down, watching the girl leave as his grin only grew. ”Summon my son.” The man said calmly, then seemed to focus himself with other tasks while the girl left the pavilion.

The swift judgement of the elders had taken the Hyuuga off guard. Throughout the hearing, Tomiko had struggled to give her best defense on why she deserved to be leader. Not because she wanted to do it, but because Hiraku had wanted her to succeed him. Yet as the hearing went on, the girl’s replies became more frustrated and emotional than rational. She couldn't get a single point in without the damn elders shooting her down. By the end of it, they delivered a crushing blow to her bid and dismissed her like it was nothing. She bit her tongue, forcing herself to keep back those tears of frustration as she turned on a heel and quickly fled from the pavilion. One her way out, Tomiko noticed another figure approaching. Toshiro, her cousin and son of one of the two Elders in that room. The two said nothing to each as they passed, giving a simple nod of acknowledgement and continuing on their paths.

A short walk through the cold later, Tomiko had made it back home and immediately went up to her room. Flopping on the bed, she buried her face in the pillows and finally allowed a few tears of frustration to fall. Frustration overtook her as she thought about how she had failed her brother. He had wanted her to succeed him, and then continue his ideals. He had trusted her. Now she had gone and lost exactly that because of those stupid old men! Her thoughts continued to boil, although the girl soon found herself calming down as an odd feeling bubbled up from somewhere inside. Relief. Almost as if a weight of a thousand boulders had been lifted from her shoulders. Responsibility being lifted? She wasn't sure, but she knew on some level there was a relief that she wouldn't become the clan leader. Afterall, she wasn’t sure that she would be ready for such a task. A long huff left the girl, annoyed at the turmoil of emotion within. At some point the exhaustion from being restless the night before caught up with the Hyuuga as her eyelids grew heavy and she drifted off into a deep sleep.



Her pale eyes blinked open as sunlight drifted lazily through her window, falling over her face and blinding the girl for but a moment as she whined while holding a hand up to block the light. Rolling to the side, Tomiko yelped as she fell from her bed to land roughly on the floor. A moment later she sat back up wearing a distinctive pout. Thankfully, her little fall had shaken off what grogginess there would have been from waking up mere moments ago. Looking back towards her window, the girl’s pout changed to a frown. If the light was coming through her window like that… it must already be around midday. I fell asleep, didn’t I? Hopefully mama and papa won't be too upset with me. She thought for a moment as she moved to her closet to try and find something for the day. She certainly didn't want to stay all dressed up like she had been for the hearing earlier. As she tried to decide what would look cute for the day, her foot bumped up against something hidden in the corner of her closet. Confusion passed over the girl as she knelt down and pulled the object out from under the small pile of blankets.

”Oh…”

The soft word from the Hyuuga was all that disturbed the silence in the room. Getting to her feet Tomiko quietly went to close her door before picking up the box and moving to her bed with it. Without any words being needed, she knew exactly what this was. She'd forgotten it being in her closet after so long, but sitting here with it before her. The girl could clearly remember being angry when she came to live here. Angry her actual parents because they left her too soon. So this final present of theirs had been shoved away. Hidden so they wouldn't haunt her anymore. Yet here it was all those years later, still waiting for her. For but a brief moment she was tempted to put it back where she found it, and continue on with her life. Yet… something inside drove her to investigate further. Curiosity quickly won out that battle as she went and slowly opened the simple cardboard box.

The box seemed to be pretty packed, and the girl bit her lip nervously as she gingerly picked up the folded pieces of paper on top of the box. Spreading them out on her bed, she counted 14 different pieces of paper, each folded neatly and with a number written on them. Starting from 5 and going to 18, it seemed a little odd to the girl until she unfolded the one that had the number five on it. Immediately it became obvious that it was a letter, meant for her on her fifth birthday.

My Little Miko,

Happy birthday sweetheart, you turned five today! I hope you've been safe and sound. I'm writing this letter because I know there isn't much time I have left with you, and I wanted to put together a gift for all the birthdays I'm going to miss. I won't ruin some of the surprise, but in the bottom is a ring that was very important to me, and I want you to keep it. I hope you're doing okay, I know your auntie is taking good care of you. Please be a good little girl for her as well, will you? I just want you to have a good life, and I know you're going to do great things one day. Know that your father and I will always love you, sweetheart and you will always make us proud. Just keep on being strong and I know you'll do whatever you set your mind to, never give up on what you want.

I love you,
Mom.


After reading through the letter, Tomiko wore a sad smile as a few small tears ran down her cheek. The girl hugged the letters to chest for a brief moment. ”Thank you, Mom.” She said softly, hoping that she had been heard by the author of these letters. The girl took the letters and set them on her bed stand, with the intention of reading through them after investigating the rest of the gift. Next she found a neatly folded piece of fabric, a deep purple with little flowers along it. Unfolding it, Tomiko found herself looking at a cute little dress, certainly meant for a much smaller girl. Not only that, but it was her favorite color. Another gift for a birthday, which made Tomiko feel a pang of sadness as she stared at the dress. She would've loved it back when it would have fit her. Tomiko folded it back up and laid it on the bed next to her. A few more dresses were below that first one, ranging from casual to formal in both the style of the Hyuuga and a more traditional Taika Kimono. Thankfully some of these actually looked to fit her.

Silently Tomiko got up from her bed and locked the bedroom door, then went back to her new dresses to try them on. Three of the dresses fit, although she would need to take the kimono to a tailor to make it slightly less big, otherwise it felt like it would slip off her shoulders. Still… they were all beautiful in their own ways. Tomiko immediately moved to fold and store the two formal dresses and put on the more casual dress. This one a light pink with a simple swirling design on it. Doing a slight twirl as she looked in her mirror the girl smiled, loving the gift. She made a mental note to burn an offering tonight for her true parents. Both to ask forgiveness for snubbing the gift and their memory for so long.

Next she found a few more pieces of paper, looking through them she found it to be three different recipes. Each of her parent’s favorite, and one that she had loved as a little girl. She continued looking through, knowing she was getting near the bottom of the box. The rest of it was various little trinkets, and other things her mother thought valuable for her daughter to have. A single tear fell away as she finally stood and started moving everything off her bed. With that done, she went back to the letter for when she turned five once more. Reading through it once again, she nodded along with her mother’s words. ”Alright. Get up Tomiko. Stop sitting around.” She said forcefully to herself, deciding she needed to get something done today.



Slowly making her way into the Yamanaka clan compound, the girl couldn't hold her hands steady as they shook from nerves. Wearing the more traditional Hyuuga-style dress, she wasn't sure if she had overdressed for meeting with the Yamanaka Seer today. In her gut indecision boiled, worried about what those she came to speak to today might have to say. Her reason for scheduling this session was simple, that question that Aiko had planted in her mind still ate away at her thoughts. Only cemented in by the funeral for Hiraku, a thought which caused her burned hand to ache in sympathy. Scars which she would bare for life for what she had done. A reminder that helped keep that question at the forefront of her mind. Something which Tomiko wasn’t even sure she knew the answers for, and wanted to see what the ancestors in Tian thought on the matter. To ask those who had gone beyond what they thought she could do in hopes of clearing her own mind and coming to a decision.

Do you even want to be a Kunoichi anymore?

She had been so sure of her answer back when Aiko had asked her. When the wound was still fresh, and her passion for revenge on the men who took her brother burning at its brightest. Yet over time, after seeing her brother on that pyre, she wasn’t sure anymore. Did she want to risk making everybody else watch when she was on that pyre? Did she have what it even took to keep her loved ones off of that Pyre? She wasn’t sure anymore. Gritting her teeth she pushed those stupid thoughts from her mind, she would get her answers soon enough. For now there was no point to making herself anxious over the idea of what could happen.

Her thoughts were interrupted as she recognized the simple dwellings where she was to meet the seer. This was it. She thought she would be scared, nervous about facing the ancestors to get her answers. Yet Tomiko felt an odd sense of invorgation at the idea. Perhaps she would even speak with those closest to her. Mom. Dad. Hiraku. Was it foolish of her to hope for such things? Surely. But it didn’t matter, as she knocked three times on the door and was soon ushered into a simple room. It was quite bare, lit by candles with two simple cushions on the floor for the two of them. The Seer explained that she didn’t feel the need to be overly lavish with the room where she worked as that wouldn’t be the focus. Soon, Tomiko was seated after paying the Seer and the ritual began.

Thanking the woman, Tomiko left the dwellings a couple of hours later. Her answers found, Tomiko wore a new found look of determination. She knew what she had to do, what her ancestors wanted of her. Moreso, she knew that she wanted to continue as a Kunoichi, and to try to protect her loved ones. She would not lose anybody else.



Beads of sweat ran down her features in the crisp, cold morning air. The girl tried to catch her breath, but the crisp, cold morning air filling her lungs almost felt like it didn't help at all. A small rut in the dirt evident from her efforts thus far, and Tomiko let out an irritated sigh. Taking some deep breaths, the girl leaned down to take a long pull from the bottle of water sitting in the grass nearby. Moving back to her spot in the middle of the backyard, she closed her eyes and took a moment to focus her chakra once more. The same way that Hiraku had taught her to do only a few months ago. This had been her routine over the time since she had been home. Unable to sleep through the night anymore, Tomiko always woke just after midnight from night terrors. Then she went out into the backyard, practicing the technique her brother had wanted her to learn until after sunrise. The task being simple, yet one she could focus on to calm herself, and time to think. She had not made much progress on the technique without her teacher here to point out where she went wrong. Yet she wouldn’t stop trying.

Opening her eyes once more, she immediately began to expel chakra from nearly all of the tenketsu along her body. Similar to how she would twirl during the dance recitals of her younger years, the girl started to spin. The expelled chakra helping to accelerate the girl, while also starting to form a sort of barrier around her. At first it seemed to be going well, but as her rotation accelerated Tomiko started to lose her balance, then compensating for that loss and losing her focus on the barrier with began to fade then reappear in bursts similar to static. The girl’s foot caught for a moment on something, stopping her rotation while all tenketsu fired. She rocketed straight forward, yelping slightly in surprise as she slammed roughly into the ground and rolled. Eventually coming to a halt covered in new bruises and dirt. Scratches from the crash bled all over her body although she thankfully suffered no major injuries as far as she could tell.

Rolling over and pushing herself to her feet, she made a noise of complaint as her whole body was sore from the moment. Although her eyes soon went wide as she realized she had easily crossed the backyard in that short time. ”I am… really lucky.” She muttered to herself, thinking about the lack of severe injury. If she had been moving fast enough to get over here that quickly, things could’ve gone… very badly for her. Though as she silently stared at the distance traveled, another thought occured in her mind. Maybe she could use that, a burst of speed in any direction could be… actually rather useful. The girl ran to her notebook sitting next to the water bottle, where she would record progress everyday. Quickly scribbling in a note of the idea she had, before taking a deep breath and preparing to go try the new idea out. Yet as she was ready to start moulding the chakra, the back door slid open and a familiar voice called to her. ”Tomiko? Come inside honey, the Lord Hyuuga is here to visit you.” She said, causing Tomiko to freeze with a wide eyed gaze before turning and moving quickly to the door to head back inside. She might look like a mess, but she was certainly confused at what the clan leader could want with somebody like her…



She had planned on apologizing and asking for a moment to go clean up, but that all went out the window as she entered her home. She froze and stared at the man sitting at the table. ”Toshiro!?” The girl demanded incredulously, as it slowly dawned on her what this all meant. Stood in stunned silence for a few moments as the man chuckled then nodded. ”Hello, Tomiko. I was actually wondering if you had time to chat today. I'll be up front and say that I want to talk about righting the wrongs of my predecessor towards you.” The man said in a polite tone, gesturing for the girl to take a seat at the table with him. Though she quickly spoke up in response. ”Of course, Lord Hyuuga. May I… may I go wash up quickly first? I may have become acquainted with the ground out there.” The girl said with a nervous laugh.

Toshiro gave a slight chuckle and nodded. ” ‘Course you can Miko. Also, we are away from public and you’ve known me for years. Please, just call me Toshiro.” He said calmly as the girl nodded in thanks. ”Thank you, Lor-... Toshiro.” She said softly before scurrying off upstairs to quickly wash up then put on one of the dresses from her mother before hurrying back down and sitting at the table with Toshiro. After a moment of silence, he decided to speak up. ”Now then. There is a simple reason I am here today, Tomiko. That being your status as a Qì ér. I’m well aware of why Hideyori removed you from the clan, but I simply cannot reinforce a decision that seems to be the efforts of a man who's lost to paranoia.” Toshiro explained, even as Tomiko looked confused for a quite a few moments.

”Why does everybody treat me like I’m still an outcast? Hiraku told me I was no longer one on the mission?” She asked as Toshiro shook his head with a sad look on his features. ”Unfortunately, your brother didn’t keep in mind the opinion of the public, nor did he officially welcome you back before passing. Many within the clan still see you as an outcast, Tomiko. Technically speaking, you still are. That being said, I’m going to change that. However, I can only say so much. You will need to prove yourself to the rest of the clan, which I can help with.” Toshiro explained and leaned back as he spoke while watching the girl’s features to gauge her response. She didn’t like it, he could already tell well before she opened her mouth. ”That's stupid! I didn’t even do anything wrong!” She complained, as Toshiro simply nodded in agreement.

”You did not. Yet that is not the story which was told, nor the public perception. So sadly, we must work to fix that. Which we very much so can do, Tomiko. I want you to be a member of our clan once again, and then I want to teach you how to handle the political environment.” He stated simply, as Tomiko’s gaze locked on his, suddenly seeming interested. ”Why…?” The girl asked as Toshiro raised an eyebrow before smiling. ”Good. You were listening. As far as I am concerned, Tomiko, you’re the rightful leader of the Hyuuga. While I don’t approve of many of the Old Ways, I still believe a leader has the right to choose their successor. Hiraku made it very clear that he chose you. Once the clan accepts you once more, I want to train you to take your rightful place. Then when the time is right, I’ll step down and let you take your place as the leader. I’ll remain as an advisor, should you allow me. Sound like a plan?” He said, watching the girl as she clearly was stunned into silence.

After what seemed to be an eternity of silence, the girl slowly nodded. ”I think you would be a better option to be clan leader, Toshiro.” She said as he shrugged. ”You have a lot of potential in you, kiddo. But that's a long way off, yeah? Let's worry about it later. For now, proving the others wrong about you deserving to be an outcast.” He said calmly before standing and nodding towards the girl. ”I've got some work to take care of, but I will be in contact soon. We’ll take care of you, Tomiko. Hiraku would probably have my head if I didn't watch out for you anyways.” He said with a light chuckle before heading out the door and leaving the Hyuuga with plenty to think about for the day.



After the Team 9 Meeting



Her new team was… different. That was certain to say the least. As the girl made her way downstairs wearing her usual training outfit, she figured that she would need to improve greatly before her new sensei would think of her ad anything but a nuisance. She already knew that she could hold her own in ranged combat, but was severely lacking when it came to close quarters. So, she decided she was going to do something about exactly that. Walking into the lounge, she found her father snoozing in the chair despite it being midday. A book lay open on his chest, so she figured he’d fallen victim to the chair’s comfort. Really, papa? You always sleep. She thought to herself as she walked over and gently shook the man awake. ”Wake up, Papa. Before you get in trouble for sleeping and not helping out around the house again. Besides, I need your help.” The girl said as she waited for her father to sit upright in the chair and look towards her after blinking sleep from his eyes.

”I wasn’t sleeping, just resting my eyes. What do you need?” He said and earned himself an eyeroll and giggle from Tomiko. ”Sure papa, along with snoring?” She asked before letting out a slight sigh. ”I want to learn the Gentle Fist. My last mission, I was unable to stay at range and my inability to handle myself up close… yeah.” She said with a sad hint in her tone, having told her parents exactly how Hiraku had died. ”You taught him, so teach me. Please.” She added as her father nodded then got slowly to his feet and gestured towards the backdoor. ”Head outside, I will be out in a second.” He said calmly as Tomiko nodded quietly before turning and heading straight out the door.

Not long after that, the man stood opposite his daughter, lecturing her about the basics of the gentle fist as well as teaching her basic kata to get the basics executed. ”Remember. Everything is about precision here. You miss a chakra point and you fail to shut down a chakra point. There is no room for any lack of precision.” He reiterated even as Tomiko went back through the kata once more.

Over the next few days the two would continue their training sessions as Tomiko learned the very basics of the Gentle Fist. Until one early morning, her father decided that she was ready to start sparring. Not because he thought she would be able to fully use the style, but because you needed to learn from making mistakes. During the course of their sparring, the girl was quite easily defeated by her father even as he went easy on her. Gaining new bruises from the impact of hitting the ground, or occasional contact during their spar.

As they stopped for a breather, Tomiko looked towards the sky and noticed the position of the sun. ”Shit!” She swore, causing her father to have a shocked expression at her language. ”Sorry Papa! I need to run or I’ll be late for my team training!” She said quickly, then turned and took off to run towards the meeting point without so much as a second thought. Ancestors. Hopefully she wouldn’t be late. Hon-sensei didn't seem like the kind to forgive that easily, no matter what the excuse might be.
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[fieldbox="Meeting The Wolf, #9a32cd, solid"]
A collab between Gerontis and Obli
Summary: Kazumo wanting some insight on leader advice, seeks out arguably one of the greatest leaders to date.

[spoili]He had been at the feast a while now, for the most apart minding his own business. He had talked with a couple people, mainly Kiyomi and his sensei and a little bit with Koike. Other than that he had stayed more so in the background. He had a few people he wished to talk to, yet they were either busy or surrounded by other people. One of those was his sensei’s husband, the Jounin Commander, Zakito Hon. He also delayed speaking with him for the fact he was well probably the second most influential person here. To say speaking with him was something he didn’t fear would be a lie, after all one wrong word and that would be remembered. Even more so with the fact his wife teaches him. Yet to fulfil certain goals hearing his advice on the matter would be beneficial.

Well it was now or never, he was off by himself. So moving towards the man, he tried to look as confident as he could. Yet he was sure he had some body language betraying his look, some slight nervousness. As he approached the man he would give the man the best salute he could muster. ”Hello Sir, my name is Kazumo Sarutobi Sigeberth. I’m a student under your wife Aiko Cho.”

So far, things were going as he wanted them to go. A rare occurrence but Zakito wouldn’t doubt the progress on his own plans.Turning and walking away from his last conversation, the man was considering who was remaining on his list. Before he could reach to an answer, a young man would approach him. Offering a salute, followed by introducing himself. It earned Kazumo a chuckle from Zakito.

”At ease, soldier,” Zakito replied in return. ”And you must be that archer that I have heard about.” The Hon added. He had to admit that he was somewhat curious about the Sarutobi. If anything, the young man was also by rights of the Imperial bloodline the uncle of Kiyomi. And thus had gained his own space within the Royal Homura palace. Something that some only could ever dream off.

”I hope that you are enjoying yourself in my halls. It is a honour to be in the presence of a descendant of Sigeberth himself.” Zakito gave a curt nod with his head as sign of respect towards Kazumo.

When a chuckle was heard, Kazumo looked a bit confused before he was told to be at ease. He would be rather surprised that Zakito had heard of him, granted it could be possible with Aiko having told some stories about the team. It could also do with the fact he was related to Kiyomi that could possibly get him recognized. Still it was surprising nonetheless to be remembered by someone of high position. Although now it brought a new worry of what he has heard about him, his expression didn’t seem to state annoyance or anger. So possibly good stories?

As Zakito hoped he was enjoying his time in his halls he would state it was an honor to be in the presence of one of Sigeberths descendants.He could feel his nerves going away the more he spoke, he was more relaxed than he thought he would be. It was rather comforting, to which Kazummo would smile and shake his head. ”I am indeed, I read up on the halls a few times. Yet seeing them in person is a much better experience than reading about them. ” Kazumo said slightly flustered at Zakito being honored to be in his presence of all people. ”Thank you, although I have a lot to do before I’m even on Sigeberths level.”

”You did? I hope that those stories did some justice to them. I don’t even dare say when it was the last time that a male descendant of Sigeberth graced this place.” Zakito politely replied. The last comment of Kazumo was one that made Zakito gain slightly more respect for the young man. Not many peers of Kazumo weren’t this humble, from Zakito’s opinion. Certainly not when they were from a most noble line.

”So, may I perhaps ask why you picked the bow?” Zakito decided to ask to strike and continue the conversation between them both.

”They did indeed, Although I always enjoying seeing the places I read about. My own little quirk of seeing what was said, and what holds up. So far a lot holds up to what I read. Although I don’t recall ever hearing a story about any Sigeberth visiting.” Kazumo replied now curious as to what the halls were like back then. If even Zakito had no clue, that could have very well happened a century ago.

Another surprising question would be asked on why he chose the bow. A simple answer but one no one really ever asked. ”Back when I was young growing up in Aldermarsh, it was mainly my father raising me. He obviously didn’t want to leave his son alone in a cabin all day, so he brought me along when he went hunting. He taught me how to track animals, even people to not go into their area. He taught me how to hold the bow, how to shoot, even how to make my own. It was how me and him grew close. So I choose the bow to both remember him by and it’s what I feel is… like part of my own body. It’s just easy for me to use one.”

Hearing the answer, Zakito flashed a polite smile. Despite being knowledgeable about Aldermarsh, he couldn’t call himself much of an expert on the region. He had visited a few times but nothing too extensive, sadly enough. ”Fair answer. I am certain that you bring him both the pride and honour. The reports I have received certainly state on how well you wield the bow.” Zakito replied. ”And how would you describe your time as a member in the shinobi corps, though?” The Hon further asked, placing his own hands at his back.

”I can only hope so. He gave up a lot for me, so I hope I could do him justice with what I do now. Although I wouldn’t say I weild it well, but I have been told before that I should be more confident in what I do, so thank you.” Then came a question on his time in the shinobi corps. A both uphill and sometimes downhill battle. ”I’ll be honest and say it’s had some ups and downs. I’ve gotten to learn a lot under Aiko, I doubt I’d be half the man I am now without her guidance. I’ve also come to know some people that I respect, and some that I’m…. trying to respect for better words. Over all I do enjoy it, some matters are less tasteful but I signed up for this so no complaints.”

The answer on his question caused Zakito to nod slightly. At least, he was certain that the young man was honest. If Zakito remembered, the young man had been on several missions with Aiko now. And he couldn’t remember if she had been assigned any easy ones lately. Certainly the trouble that had occured in Amegakure would have likely been somewhat challenging for Kazumo. To hear that Kazumo was trying to find some respect for others, Zakito couldn’t help but chuckle once more.

”I hear you. I had the same when I was a chuunin. I am glad to know that Aiko can rely on such an outstanding young man.” Zakito replied, at first. ”Though, I assume that many other professions struggle with the same problem. Having others you respect or like more than others, who… seem less fit for your friendship or respect.” The man further added, already about to bring up some names and faces that he had resented in his days as a chuunin. ”But you signed up for the sake of feeling a duty towards the realm then?”

Even he went through those situations? Well it made sense, when he was a chuunin he was probably far less known than he was today. He most likely spoke the truth, every job had something similar in how they dealt with people. Some you liked, some you disliked. Some you love and some you hate. It was how the world operated, no job was perfect after all. Which posed a question from him if duty was why he signed up.

”I first signed up as a way to honor my mom. She was a shinobi and while she didnt die on the job she still loved it. Never got to know her, so i thought this would be a nice way to honor her.” Kazumo started with before a smile was growing on his face. ”Then I meet who I would find out was my niece, her majesty. It was something about that meeting that awoke something within me. I wanted to help her, wanted to do whatever I could to aid her. So I took my employment more seriously, not that I haven’t before. Just a new drive in a way. Yet I kept finding myself wondering what it was I could do to aid her. Something that the higher ups couldn’t...” Kazumo stopped speaking as a more serious expression was growing on his face. ”Then I came up with an answer. The Sarutobi. They are split into factions and are powerful on their own, but unified? I feel they would be a force that would make anyone second guess attacking.”

”My duty to serve is to grow my own abilities until Im worthy enough, strong enough to be able to lead the Sarutobi. They won’t settle for less, I have to surpass what even my ancestors were.” Kazumo said his fists slightly clenching. ”Yet every time I get into a fight, I find out I have much to learn, I’m far from being able to lead. Which is why I came to talk with you. You are a leader that her majesty respects greatly. I was wondering if you wouldn’t mind giving me advice. I want to know how you handle all these situations that keep coming at you daily and not falter.”

The man listened to Kazumo’s answer. He could somewhere relate to Kazumo but there were clear differences between their reason on why they were loyal and dutiful to their vocation. Hearing Kazumo state that he wanted to be strong enough to lead the Sarutobi, Zakito couldn’t help but frown slightly. There were many examples in the history which had seen people try to unify the Sarutobi as one. The reason was also stated on why Kazumo had approached him.

”I handled it wrong at the start,” Zakito started. His voice was a bit softer and the pace slower. As if he needed to weigh the words carefully. ”I was at first too cautious. Not willing to take risks. Considering myself too weak and incapable to make any difference. When I started to figure out that I was able to make a change, I became prideful. Arrogant and distant to others. Wanting to just believing in my own strength.” A second of silence followed Zakito’s words.

”It took me some time to realise what worked for me. Which was patience. Patience and hard work. To not consider myself too capable. Or not wanting to entrust others to be of aid. If I have to give you advice, I would say that you need to be patient and just keep working. A goal like becoming the leader of your people isn’t going to be easy. Many before you tried it and almost succeeded. Try to learn from their mistakes and pick up where they left.”

When Zakito began speaking it wasn’t what he expected, the Hons were mighty so hearing that their leader had once been to cautious and refused to take risk, and that he also was once prideful and only believed in himself, his own strength. Something that Kazumo thought he needed much more of if he was ever going to be capable. It dawned on him a bit, yet how many people has he pushed away while striving for more strength? In the end patience and simple hard work was all it took.

That honestly felt like the type of advice that a parent would give any of their children. Patience and hard work, trust others to give you aid. Learn from the mistakes that previous leaders of his clan tried to unify the clan with. Pick up where they left off. Kazumo certainly weighed the words heavily on himself as he looked to be analyzing the answer he was given. He knew deep inside the man was most likely correct, yet at the same time he felt like he had to push himself harder.

”How do you go about fixing your own mistakes…. What about the people that have been pushed away already?” Kazumo said as he looked at the ground as if he was trying to answer his own question. ”When ones prideful as they strive for strength, what about the ones that offered help? Is it still possible to correct the mistakes that have already been made?”

The question wasn’t instantly answered. It wasn’t an easy question. Zakito could remember a few people right away. It brought back memories that he rather kept in the back of his mind. The experiences that he was ashamed off. The ones that had left their mark on him but that he prefered to ignore. Able to control his emotions and facial expression quite well, Zakito was still happy that Kazumo looked at the ground. He would wait a moment before speaking up.

”I think it is. You’re younger than me. The people you might have pushed are most likely still alive. From what I learned is that people can be quite forgiving. You just need to find the right approach. And if they won’t accept it? Then just know that you tried. It can take quite some courage to admit your wrongs and try to right them.” Zakito said, his tone becoming more serious. There was some doubt if this young man would be able to unify the Sarutobi clans. But it was too early to exclude him from accomplishing that feat. Making a mental note to keep some of the young man’s progress under watch, Zakito spoke up again.

”Besides, that is what you’re young for. To make and learn from mistakes. It would be odd if you would never have to make a mistake. Not so much to learn if you never fall, right?”

Part of him believed that he was being told this cause that’s what he wanted to hear, it was the right words yet it just didn’t click with him. He knew it should have but yet maybe he was the one not allowing himself to apologize. He knew in a way he was in the wrong for letting such things bug him, yet was it a pride thing to know he was just being a dick and refusing to apologize? Yet it was as Zakito said, he was young and thus needed to make mistakes to learn from them. This caused him to chuckle himself this time.

”My father use to tell me that when I made mistakes hunting. Although I have to say, so far you only heard some stories about me. If it’s quite alright I’d like to hear some of your own stories.” Kazumo said a slight gleam in his eyes. ”Might sound odd but Im honestly curious what its like to lead a clan such as the Hons. I always hear stories and such about them, yet I feel getting the input from you would be very informing.”

Stories about him? Zakito had to hold back a sigh. ”First word that comes to mind is tiring. When you have to make sure that one jarl isn’t pressing on a bloodfeud and then seven thegns that want to press on an idea, you might doubt some stories.” Zakito started. ”But it can be quite rewarding when you get the rowdy bunch to work together. It isn’t as glorious as the tales of old might portray it. But it is certainly fulfilling.”

He considered something. ”A year ago, I was forced to deal with an issue. The House of Rachon and Dowhon had a dispute. Now, I am not sure if you ever met the Dowhon but they can be a stubborn lot that don’t back off when they feel in their right. They claimed that the House of Rachon hadn’t paid their debt. Seeing that we don’t fight our differences out as we used to, I was called in as the arbiter. It took me two hours to make them stop slamming their heads against one another. But at the end, they treated each others as family. Being part of that, well, I guess I am quite content with that.” Realising that the story wasn’t that exciting, Zakito wasn’t so sure if he could really entertain the young man. If anything, he prefered not to talk about his experiences in the past conflicts.

”Haha, you’d be surprised at what I would believe these days. ” Kazumo stated having seen his own share of rather unbelievable things. This Void technique, these people that didn’t die unless under special circumstances, the entire shit show in Amegakure. That was only a few weeks and yet it seemed like forever. He was glad when they managed to stabilize for longer than a few days. It briefly made him wonder how it was doing now, but he chased that thought away. He was done with that city for at least a few months.

When Zakito did start telling him about the Dowhon and Rachon houses, his eyes seemed to gleam a bit as he would listen intently to every word. Not an action packed story, yet he didn’t need action for a story to be good. The Dowhon claimed Rachon owed them a debt and they hadn’t repaid it, which caused a commotion that Zakito had to resolve the matter for over two hours. ”I know both of them! From reading that is, never meet any. I know the Rachon House boasts about their archers being the best in the Hon’s military and are on close terms with the Blackroots, which might explain why they boast of their archers. The Dowhon might be the most heard of, mainly of the rumor surrounding them and their bear shaping abilities. Also quite the hardened people from their previous conflicts in the Iron country. It’s amazing that you managed to make those two make up.”

He assumed. But then again, there were a lot of things that Zakito had learned and always thought that nothing could surprise him. The world was filled with surprises. Some quite pleasant and some less. ”Oh, you do?” When Kazumo elaborated and stating it was amazing the feud had been cleared, Zakito couldn’t help to chuckle.

”Who knows? Perhaps one day you will do something similar? Making sure that the Blackroots and Gwade won’t bash each other’s heads in. Sometimes, the solution is better found without drawing steel than to let people resolve it with violence. Despite some people preferring actions over words.”

A chuckle would escape him as he mentioned he may do the same with the Blackroots and the Gwade. Something most people wouldn’t want to put themselves between, ”That’s something I have to consider, it’s certainly a long term goal to even unify them. Mostly since there would be those that would oppose it. I honestly don’t have the first idea how to be the kind of leader they would even need to lead them. It feels like every step I make, they take two. Have you ever been in a similar situation? Where the people didn’t want you as their leader?”

It was indeed true. There would most likely be those who would oppose the idea of this young man to try to unify the clan. Or most others. Likely due to the reason of risking to lose political power, wealth and control. Usually one of those was enough reason for murder. Then again, this young man was under the protection of his spouse. Many Sarutobi wouldn’t risk to pull the wrath of Aiko on them. A powerful advantage, Zakito thought to himself. ”All the time when I was your age. And even some time later. It takes just time, experience and understanding to know what to do. There might be people who still object to my leadership over the clan. But even if a few oppose, it doesn’t always means the end of your goal. The Sarutobi isn’t just ruled by a very few. Some lords or councils might oppose you, not wanting to lose their own influence. But there might be more that hunger to see their people unified. Would be the first time in centuries after all.”

Even a man with a reputation such as his knew what it was like for people to oppose his leadership, the thought made him slightly more comfortable with the feeling of his own goals. He figured that some of the councils and lords would try to stop him, none wanted to surrender their own position simply cause someone wished to unify them. It was certainly a risky endeavor after all, he would risk a lot more than time with this. He would risk his life as well, his honor, maybe even possible friendships. Yet he made his choice and he was going to stick with it. It was why he sought growth why he wished to become more capable. This goal was what drove him to keep getting stronger. ”I honestly expect it. It would feel….. Wrong if it was too easy. I want to know what they want, what they wish for the clan. I want them to help me make the Sarutobi even stronger than it ever has been. After all this isn’t simply about me, it’s about them as well.”

This boy, Zakito thought to himself as he heard the reply of Kazumo. ”If anything, it does seem you already got some wisdom that even veteran leaders don’t possess.” Zakito said, nodding after the given compliment. ”Though, I would be careful to who you are listening to. Balance is what I can advice. Which doesn’t sound that helpful but people tend to be envious creatures. If one thinks that you are listening more to one than another, you might find your advisors and subjects at each other’s throats.” He said, managing to hide his own bitter disappointment of past experiences. ”Have you already considered who you will contact first, once the time is right?”

Balance.. He noted those words down mentally, it seemed like an obvious thing yet some would manage to not properly balanced their input from others many times in history. What may seem like favoring of one person can turn into a nasty situation really fast. Something he didn’t wish for mostly with the Sarutobi. He believed they wouldn’t come to blows, yet if they did he could only equal it to that of a nightmare. He had much to think about indeed about this, he was glad he decided to speak to Zakito. His input while may seem simple, was very helpful. When he asked who he would contact first when the time was right, he would nod and smile.

”I was going to pick my homeland Aldermarsh. It seemed right making the first step where I was born. It also seemed like it would be a slight on their pride to have one of their own seeking the support of the others before them. Yet I now also see that others would be quick to deem that I favorite them above the others.”

”Aldermarsh,” Zakito repeated. There was a certain approval present in the man’s tone as he did so. ”It is a good first step. Some would else consider you to have sold your loyalty to another. Would have been quite bad indeed if your first pick would have been the Edani, if they learned you originate from Aldermarsh. So, I indeed agree. Good choice. As for the early stage, I wouldn’t consider it too much. Your opponents will see an opening in every move. And to dig in and wait for a chance to move further? It is not bad to play it safe but it might not get you anywhere. Though,” he had to think about a feasible answer himself as well, ”How would you try to gain influence in Aldermarsh? They are governed by a council. I doubt a council will be quick to succumb to the idea of having a sole leader.”

Being praised for his choice brought some relief, he had thought it to be the right choice yet he also doubted slightly what the others would think of it. Yet there he went thinking to deeply, it probably just seemed right for a native to their birthplace to choose their birthplace over others. He did appreciate the advice he was being given, giving stern nods that he was paying attention to every word. Then he asked how he would try to gain influence in Aldermarsh, something he had tried to think about before yet simply couldn’t come up with a clear option. ”Honestly I’m not sure. All I have is my name going for me, but that won’t be enough. I don’t know about the deeper struggles going on with each of the different Sarutobi groups.”

Zakito wasn’t sure if he had expected a plan. The young man was a mere chuunin. And not yet an experienced one at that. It was thus somewhat forgiven that Kazumo didn’t have an elaborated plan yet.Thinking of suggestions, Zakito decided against it. This wasn’t his goal. ”Sometimes names have a lot of influence and can be more dangerous than a thousands swords.” Zakito began, ”As for not knowing the struggles, I figure there is enough time to learn and indulge yourself into those. The best advice I can give on that is that you don’t go by one side. Stories have this bad habit of having more than one side to them.”

”Well its not fully true to say I haven’t thought of anything. A couple ideas have come up, just not sure how well they would be received. One such idea was the the dangerous creatures in the Blackroot’s forests. Obviously not counting the Dire Wolves even though they are dangerous. I more so meant the Boggart who prevent the Chonobi they eat from entering Akumu’s Hall. I feel that is a fate none should go through, so as such. One of my ideas would be to gather those willing to hunt down the Boggart. Obviously not an easy task or one that many would be encouraged to go through. I just can’t see a life being robbed of such a thing, mostly at the very end of their life.” Kazumo said telling of one of his ideas to Zakito who he wouldn’t even be certain if he’d approve of such a plan. Kazumo did just talk about extinction of a species after all, also with the risk of others being denied of entering Akumu’s Halls.

As he spoke to not just listen to one side he smiled and nodded. ”Of course! It wouldn’t be very leader like to listen to only one side. Although I will take it to mind on trying to see the bigger picture. I know sometime in the future that Aiko was going to take me along on one of her deals with the Gwade.”

Upon hearing that the young man wanted to take up against Boggarts, Zakito wasn’t sure what he felt. Boggarts were dangerous, even for the most seasoned combatant. The reason why Kazumo wanted it was what surprised Zakito. It was a pleasant surprise to hear that the young man wanted to help his people for their sake. And not just trying to bring down those monsters for his own sake of glory. Something that others had attempted before. ”A most dangerous plan. One that will require sacrifices. Of not just you but putting those who would follow you into danger. However,” the tone became softer, ”It does show some good qualities that you want to it for the sake of your people. If others will see it, they might even willing to follow you on such a dangerous undertaking.” Zakito did wonder why Aiko was so involved. Knowing the woman much better, Zakito could already think of some reasons. He wasn’t against it though. If the bond between future Chinobi leaders would stay positive and strong, then their future would look all the brighter for it.

Nodding in agreement he would smile. ”It is indeed, I don’t expect many to join since its basically telling them to risk their chance to enter for the sake of our descendants. Yet that’s a fear that the Blackroots live with almost everyday.” Kazumo said wishing he could do more for them besides that one act. Thinking about it he never told Aiko or Kiyomi this plan yet, he never stopped to wonder what they would think of it. Laughing a bit at this he would smile. ”You know, I just realized I never told Aiko about that one yet, and she’s been giving me advice about this whole ambition. She’s rather protective isn’t she? I wonder how she would even react if I told her about it.”

Kazumo then remembered something which he wanted to ask about, well more so talk about. ”Kei was the one who snuck on our mission to Amegakure right?” he asked initially not knowing if Zakito knew, although he probably would be informed since it was his child. ”I was wondering if Kei was alright after that whole trip. I didn’t get to speak to the little one that much besides being called a dum dum for ruining the game.” Kazumo said with a joyful smile clearly not taking Kei’s words to heart.

”Likely starting with verbally smacking you all over the realm,” Zakito said, not hiding his amusement. ”If you want my piece of thought, I would consider it for now to keep it for yourself. You got still enough time and matters to tackle before you will reach to that point, I wager.” When Kazumo brought up Kei, Zakito felt the need to sigh and chuckle at the same time. Not the best combination but he couldn’t help but smile. The fact that Kei and Aki had tried to sneak out was something he couldn’t condone. But there was something to it that made him feel proud about the twins. ”I haven’t seen much of a change. And she came back without a scratch, so I don’t think it would be an entirely bad idea if you want to speak to her soon. Your team is bound to stay in the city for some time, after all.”

He couldn’t help but laugh at the thought of being scolded everywhere he went. ”Yeah that sounds like something she would do.” he said with a smile before nodding in agreement. Keeping it from her would be wise until it was too late for her to stop him from doing it anyway. When he said nothing bad happened to her he was a bit relieved even a bit amused at the thought of talking to Kei again. ”Well I’ll just have to see with Aiko when I can do such. I know from earlier when I spoke to her and Koike that she had something planned.”

”I would be most surprised when she would not have a plan,” Zakito mumbled, more to himself than as a response to Kazumo. Clearing his throat, he spoke again. This time on a more audible level. ”But it would be perhaps wise to discuss it with Aiko. I believe she has retreated from the event. And desires to spend some time with the twins before the time comes for a new assignment.” Zakito briefly wondered for a moment about something. ”If it would interest you, there will soon be an archery competition. Would you do us the honour of participating?”

It made sense for her to want to spend time with her children, she hasn't seen them in a few weeks if he wasn’t mistaken. It made him feel a bit guilty over not seeing his father in a while, he wrote but that wasn’t the same as a talk in person. Yet he would ask her next time he saw her tomorrow about visiting Kei. He doubted the small girl even remembered him, she only spoke to him once or twice. However he would be quite surprised and taken back when Zakito asked if he would participate in an archery competition. He never once considered entering one of those, not cause he couldn’t win but it just wasn’t in him to compete to win. A bit flustered at the request he would smile and nod. ”I don’t see why I couldn’t, thank you for the invitation.” Kazumo said a bit excited inside too see professional archers in action, he wasn’t entering to win but more so to learn how others utilized their own archery.

”Good. It would certainly inspire some more effort from the other participants to hear that a descendant of Sigeberth would join. I am certain that you will feel quite at home with some of my marksmen.” Zakito played with the idea to see how Kazumo would reply to an offer of serving as an archer in his hird. For a time, at least. He doubted that he would be able to shake the ambition that the young man had off. ”I will arrange it with Aiko, to see to it that you will be allowed to enter the competition. Perhaps you can win and impress some of the young ladies.”

He doubted that a name would make others put more effort into it, he felt the event itself would do that job well enough. Not to mention the city they were in, yet he would have to learn that his name had more weight than he realized. ”I look forward to participating as well as learning from it.” Kazumo said with a smile before his face flustered up as he mentioned he could win and impress some of the young ladies. ”I….. I...I wouldn’t be going for that part of the competition.” Kazumo replied simply as his eyes lowered to the ground, women just got more confusing by the minute. They found winning an archery competition attractive?

”Good. I can’t promise anything but if Aiko will allow it then expect more information to head your way,” Zakito told Kazumo. Spotting that the young man became more timid than before, the Hon found it somewhat amusing. If anything, the young man was quite far from the usual ambitious folk he had seen. Then again, Zakito reminded himself that this was the first time that he had met the young man. ”That is fine. Merely a joke. I imagine that the fame as prizes are more alluring. Usually, that makes some young ladies quite interested, though.”

Giving a bright smile and nod, he wouldn’t voice it but he was rather excited for the possibility to meet other archers. He only meet one other archer and she wasn’t exactly the smartest when it came to it, so when he stated he was joking about the women he sighed a bit although he quickly made him worry again when he said fame usually interested ladies. ”Is that how you meet Aiko? I never really asked her about that, but I am curious as to how two of the most known clans got to know each other.”

A soft snicker resonated from Zakito. The question was fair and yet quite amusing. ”We met during the Wind country’s attempt at invading the River province. After the war, our relationship developed further.” Zakito explained in a short and simple fashion. ”She wasn’t then the leader of the Cho. That came, afterwards.” The man further added to his answer.

That sounded awfully romantic, two people meeting in war surviving the hardship and going on to survive and grow the bond even closer. He got to the point quickly which was rather amusing, he felt like sensei would have told the story in much more details. He did state she wasn’t the leader at the time which was quite intriguing though. Now that he thought about it, Aiko did tell him a very little bit about the wind country and her time there. ”Haha sorry its just a curious situation. She seems like such a scary woman to ever cross, so knowing she is married makes me wonder what she is like when she’s not on the job.”

A laugh escaped Zakito. ”I imagine. I have seen her fight before. Scary is putting it lightly.” Or whenever she is angry or upset. Deciding to not voice that, Zakito continued. ”Much like how she is when mentoring you outside of missions. Caring, friendly and respectful. If you deserve it, I guess.” Truth be told, he wasn’t entirely sure how Aiko mentored her students. If anything, she managed to get good results. Good enough that he prefered not to bother to question her methods.

Scary? Woman was terrifying, he knew that the thing impersonating her wasn’t her and even then it was terrifying to even try to harm someone with her face. When he said how she was outside of mentoring them he gave a chuckle as that would be the safest bet. He remembered those sessions greatly. The slight relief before thrown into a situation that he wasn’t expecting or was but was promised wouldn’t be bad. Well on the bright side, those kids would never rebel against her. ”I’d say that’s about right. Never had someone be so friendly before putting me into various stressful genjutsu situations. Yet I respect her greatly!”

It was no surprise to Zakito that even a courageous young man found the genjutsu of Aiko stressful. He was no stranger to how deadly and creative those genjutsu could be. ”I am glad to hear so. From what I can remember, there were only reports of her approving of your methods and actions.” The man considered how long they had been talking. But seeing that the young man was intriguing, Zakito decided to lengthen the talk for a bit longer. After all, there was this chance that this could be the successor of Sigeberth. ”What more fields have piqued your interest in terms of martial or combat skills?”

Did sensei really talk about him that much? He knew Zakito was their Jounin Commander yet it still felt as though Aiko spoke more praises than his shortcomings. Like his uselessness against that one bird bomber, really any mission early on in his career. When asked what other fields piqued his interest in terms of martial or combat skills he had to think about that for a bit. His only ever really used his archery in combat from what he remembered. Very rarely did he ever engage in close quarters, despite Aiko teaching him some taijutsu moves. ”I guess that depends. I have created some bombs with Koike. Well more so a stink bomb with a powerful smell that can quickly incapacitate a person in a matter of seconds. Did you know that by mixing two cleaning applicators that they can create such an effect? Yet I did receive a sword from her majesty, it would be nice to learn how to use that more efficiently.”

He had created bombs with Koike? Zakito couldn’t have seen that one coming. Not certain why, he wouldn’t linger on the thought. Hearing the nature and design of the bomb, Zakito couldn’t resist to release a chuckle. ”I didn’t know. I suppose it adds another reason why I dislike cleaning chores myself.” The man joked as he considered something. ”Is that so? Knowing her Majesty, she will be quite fond of teaching you how to properly wield a blade herself. In that case, I do think you are quite lucky. I haven’t seen many being able to best her Majesty when it comes to swordplay.” Despite Kiyomi having more pressing tasks, he did consider it a good form of distraction if she would spend time with somebody that wasn’t out for her favour or own agenda.

Chuckling as well at the man’s joke he would nod in agreement. He had no doubt that Kiyomi would be one of the first to teach him how to use his sword, he also slightly feared that knowing how she could get as well. Well hopefully she was a more relaxed teacher but he also doubted such a thing. ”Well here is hoping she goes slightly easy on me at first. I know she likes to teach the hard way sometimes.” Kazumo said with a smile before looking around. ”I probably ate up enough of your time though. I should let you be on your way, I look forward to possibly participating in the archery contest though.” Kazumo would state before he would give thee man a bow and would walk away to let him do as he wished.[/spoili][/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox=The Wolf and Butterfly, wheat]
In Magnhild,
During the Feast.
Part I
A collab between Winter and Gerontis.

Summary:
Satia Cho and Koike Hon meet and interact. They have a lengthy conversation, some drinks and eventually start a small game of witty banter. A bet is made and the stakes are raised. Will the wolf succumb or will it be the butterfly?




[spoili]
So far, he couldn’t say that he wasn’t enjoying his time. Having already met up with various familiar faces, Koike couldn’t help but think now and then back to those who were in the east. Out in the cold, with much less luxury than he was enjoying. For a moment, even the new outfit that Kiyomi had gifted him wasn’t even helping to keep his spirits high.
Enjoying the calm music, Koike did finally decide to head outside. It was rather easy to walk out of the crowd and move to one of the entrances to the terrace. The light snowfall had stopped but the cold kept the majority inside.

Holding his drink, Koike raised his right hand and briefly rubbed his neck. There wasn’t much ongoing at the gardens in front of the terrace, except being covered in snow. Giving a rather tranquil scenery to enjoy. Pushing the thoughts of the east out of his mind, Koike would take a sip of his drink. Tasting the wine, he grumbled. He had been certain that he had taken another drink.
Walking to a nearby rail, Koike would turn so that his face was towards the feast. Leaning against the stone rail, he couldn’t help but feel a bit more awake with the gentle breeze that had a cold bite.

She had no idea how she'd gotten caught up so easily but she would softly laugh as a group of children ran around her, one of them holding onto her hand as she was lead from where the adults had been socializing. Of course they were more than likely the offspring of the attending nobility those belonging to the more aristocratic class, but regardless of who they would call mother and father children were inherently innocent, devoid of having made difficult choices or having had their morals and perceptions of the world warped and twisted by the negativity of war, religion and politics. It was refreshing to see them and be involved in their fun if only for a moment as she was pulled and tugged towards the terrace where they desired to play in the falling snow. "Come on! come on this way!" one of them excitedly called up as the young woman followed with a smile.

She wore a dress of Taika design, a personal choice she'd made to emphasize her pride in her lineage and heritage, coming from Taika descent. She knew that some would be in attendance that frowned on such appearances but to her it was all the more reason to wear it. Her hair was pinned up in an elegant ponytail held in place with flowery pins with short dangling metal petals that complimented the dress. "Don't rush! one of you will fall!" she replied softly between soft chuckles before the ones not glued to her ran down the stone stairwell adjacent to the stone railed terrace to stand in the falling snow. Before she was pulled too far she paused noticing they were not quite alone, looking over to see a man leaning against the stone rail enjoying a glass of what she suspected was wine.

"Run along little ones, I will catch up with you shortly" she smiled, bending over with her hands on her knees as she spoke. "Ok but don't be long! we need you for a game we want to play!" of the younger girls chirped with a grin before running off. Satia gave a small nod before she stood up straight, turning and making her way towards the man before stopping a short distance. "Excuse me sir, I hope I'm not disturbing you" she said politely, holding her hands together in front of her as she spoke. She kept her distance just in case the gentlemen more desired his own company for now, though she suspected differently. "I saw you earlier but I wasn't able to have the pleasure of learning your name" she smiled, "Mind if I join you?".

Taking a sip of his drink, Koike slightly frowned upon when he heard some sounds. Watching a few kids and a young woman, he didn't make any motion to move. Watching the cheerful few, he was certain he had seen a similar scene happening before. Staying silent, he would try to not give away that he was watching them. Considering that staring was anything but approved of, certainly at the occasion as the current one.
Overhearing the exchange between the children and the young woman, Koike couldn't help but smile faintly. There was something endearing about the situation but he wasn't so sure what to say.

"You are not disturbing me at all," Koike replied with a friendly tone. Despite there was more than enough room for her to join him, leaning against the stone railing, he would still make some space by taking a step to the side. "My name is Koike Hon. A pleasure to meet you, miss..."

She would return the smile in kind, letting one to sit genuinely on her features as she listened for his response. She was pleased to learn she wasn't intruding, these occasions could be stressful for certain individuals depending on rank and status, so it wasn't an uncommon occurrence to see people slip away for a minute of peace and quiet. When she would attend such things herself in her youth she'd sometimes slip away, taking a moment just to breath and not be under the pressure of etiquette. Despite that, she would call upon her experience in this interaction, not knowing who he was and what position he held in regards to importance. The young Cho startled for a moment upon hearing his name, like a bolt of lightning release had struck her chest, blinking as her smile faded for a moment.

She would quickly recompose as her smile returned, "I... see" she replied slowly. "It would seem this meeting could have been destined" she would reply casually at first before answering him, "Satia Cho" she replied as she stepped closer so they could speak more comfortably, "It's a pleasure to finally meet you in person" she smiled.

Taking a sip of his drink, Koike would notice that she was startled by something. Despite having used his expertise regarding reading body language for field operations and more political scenarios, he didn't know the other well enough to assume what had startled her. Regarding the lighting in the spot they were in being quite dim, he reckoned that she had only now noticed his scars.
He would usually state that if she wasn't comfortable that he would take his leave. It wouldn't be the first nor the last time that the scarred features would intimidate or prevent advancement in social exchanges.

When she began that their meeting being destined, Koike couldn't help but to become wary. For a second, he wanted to tell her that he wasn't aware that the Gods had some plan for him. There was something oddly confusing about her though. She wore an attire that was anything but Chonobi. But still.
Only when she introduced herself, Koike blinked three times in a rapid fashion.

"Ah, yes. The newest member of squad 8. I just had an encounter with your sensei and leader. Not to mention Kazumo. I knew them from before. You are lucky to be in such a great team," Koike replied back, swapping from Taika to Chonobi, which he found slightly more comfortable to converse in.

Satia hoped she hadn't appeared rude, knowing that her brief pause could have been mistaken, though she wasn't aware how much he knew about the situation and this only became more apparent as he spoke, mentioning Aiko and Kazumo. She gave a nod and smiled, finding herself observing him to a greater degree than she would have had she been meeting with someone who wasn't arranged as her potential suitor. She recalled a conversation with Aiko before one of their training sessions where she first opened her letter from her father, Aiko generously giving her some information about him. Moving from Taika to Chonobi wasn't trouble for her, she spoke both fluently due to her lineage so was used to family using Taika more dominantly than Chobobi. "Mhmm, lucky indeed" she smiled a bit more brightly, "Aiko is a fantastic teacher and Kazumo has proven himself both reliable and trustworthy to have by your side, if not a touch grumpy at times".

"Please forgive my hesitation, I recognized your name from a discussion with Aiko some time ago" she decided not to bring up the letter, it seemed maybe not quite appropriate given they were only just talking and besides it perhaps meant she could learn about him on equal footing as opposed to one where he may not be as forthcoming. It would then occur to her she didn't mention why they'd been talking about him, "We were talking about past students, she had quite the interesting stories about you. One of which might have involved a trap gone wrong" she tilted her head slightly and carried a small smirk, subtle and playful without being inappropriate, more of an expression of good jest to lighten the mood a little.

Koike nodded when she spoke of Aiko and Kazumo. It was quite amusing to hear to hear her say that Kazumo could be a bit grumpy. He hadn't that side yet of the Sarutobi. But sadly, despite the good click and start of their friendship Koike hadn't been able to spend much time with the other guy.
"Oh?" He said, unable but to feel intrigued when she stated that Aiko and Satia had a discussion about him. When she mentioned about a trap going wrong, Koike's eyes widened for a second. Then he slightly leaned back while raising his free right hand. Rubbing his neck, a sigh escaped his lips.

"Yeah," he said, unable to hide his amusement and slight embarrassment, "I wasn't the most competent of genin." A smile would find its way on Koike's lips as he turned his gaze back on Satia. "I actually just spoke with Kazumo and Aiko. But perhaps they weren't joking that much about you." He decided to say in a polite tone, leaving his cryptic comment like that.

The Genin had to restrain herself from allowing a soft laugh to follow his reaction, recalling the story quite well of how Koike had ended up on the receiving end of his own trap. It was nothing to really be that embarrassed about, the time of a Genin was time to learn and explore ones own skills after all and mistakes were only opportunities to learn and move forwards. At least that's what she believed anyway. When he mentioned his conversation about her her eyebrows raised as she once again tilted her head to the side slightly, observing him almost critically for a moment. "Careful Koike-Sama, you may just provoke my intrigue" she replied, using the correct honorific for one of greater rank and status.

When Satia used an honorific, Koike shook his head lightly. "No need to address me like that. Please, certainly not after bringing up that failed trap experience." he said, at first. An amused tone rang clear in Koike's voice. Taking a second, letting a pause follow his words, Koike spoke up again. "They said that you were a competent addition to the team. Aiko spoke highly of your skills. Kazumo even stated that you were pretty. Seems that he hasn't lost his sharp eyesight yet."

Taking a sip of his wine, he did briefly wonder if the small comment wasn't too far. Then again, he considered that he had nothing to lose. "They did state that you were quite fond of reading. Anything in particular that you do find interesting?"

She was pleased to learn he wasn't keen on following honorific traditions, it was something she defaulted to just in case she would accidentally offend someone without it being her intention but she found it was more pleasant to speak by name instead of adding the extra which would often make things feel more formal and uncomfortable. She gave a small inwards chuckle, "Fair enough" she replied with a nod before she blinked as he mentioned what Aiko and Kazumo had said about her, smiling warmly before he'd followed it up with a subtle compliment. The Genin felt her cheeks warm a little at that but managed to distract herself from it as he then asked about her reading, causing her to give a small nod and an accompanying smile to go with it. "Ah, I probably read more than I should in all honesty, but lately I've been brushing up on Akino history but as for what I'm interested in myself. I have an interest specifically in herbalism, botany and biology. The three combine hand in hand for creating a variety of poisons and remedies. I can't help but find fascination in the floral world" she confessed. "Might I return the question and ask what interest you?" she would add curiously.

The dim light didn't provide enough for Koike to sight the soft blush, that was growing on Satia's cheeks. He took a sip of the wine but more so because he had no clue what else to do with it. The taste wasn't still entirely to his preference, though. Her answer made him snicker at first.
"Heh, yeah. I have spent days confined in books, scrolls and manuscripts." He stated, remembering those days all too well.
The fact that she was interested in matters like herbalism and such to make both poisons as medicines surprised him. Why? He wasn't exactly certain. Perhaps because it wasn't common for young women to indulge into such matters, so far he knew. Then again, she was under the tutelage of Aiko. Which shouldn't strike him too surprising that she probably already knew a thing or two about poisons.

"I like to read a lot of matters. History of countries and clans. Or matters such as past wars and biographies. I even dabbled a bit into herbalism and such. For the usage of poisons. Though I must admit that it has been months since I had been able to read a good manuscript." He said, his smile becoming slightly wry. "Perhaps one day we can swap out recipes?"

While they conversed she decided to relax herself a little, taking a few steps to the stone rail and peering over the side to check on the children running around and playing. Satia's high level of perception enabled her to quickly pick up if anything was wrong, even through the fall of the snow before turning her attention back to him as she leaning on the rail a little. She was surprised to learn that he also had a taste for reading, having expected him to be more interested in physical arts given his scars, which she had to admit rather suited him. "That's a shame, I should imagine your work has you distracted from being able to enjoy a good book?" she inquired curiously before hearing his request and seeming to grow in enthusiasm and intrigue, "That'd be wonderful, I'd love to" she said with a brighter smile.

That was one way to put it, he thought to himself. But he wouldn't allow this conversation to grow bitter. He subtly nodded. "My work has indeed demanded quite some time from me. Luckily, I got some more time the next day or so." He replied back. The reply he got on his suggestion made he flash a smile in return.

"I must admit that I haven't many remedies. I got perhaps one recipe that you will find interesting. Most of it is quite, basic." He admitted. "Stuff like using the giant hogweed for example. Not really the kind of stuff that kills a person. But once it comes to contact with a victim's eyes, it can be quite...."
His voice trailed off as he realised what he was talking about. Coughing, he would restrain his own enthusiasm to talk about poisons with a young woman, he would continue at a calmer pace. "Perhaps I can write some of the recipes before I will have to go. Back to work."

She worried for a moment that she might have brought up something he was reluctant to discuss but as the conversation progressed she was pleased to find she hadn't sullied the mood. The young Cho nodded with a smile and decided not to prey further into his work to avoid nearing anything that might bring the mood down, listening instead as he explained about his own experiences with herbalism which naturally caught her interest. The moment he'd mentioned Hogweed she could already think of the Yakimara name in both species and genus, but decided it was better not to appear over eager about her enjoyment of the subject even as he restrained himself after a moment which made her smile more. "That'd be nice, I have a book full of recipes and discoveries that I'd be more than happy to share with you" she replied before having the thought.

He'd restrained his eagerness to the subject and so the young girl decided to imply her comfort by explaining one of her own findings, hoping it might put him at ease and perhaps make him feel a little more comfortable in her presence. "Tunaga Caelithis" she began, "Also known as the Kettle Bell for it's kettle bell shaped bulbs. It produces a sedative which can be used to decrease heart rate and treat wounds. Additionally, depending on how you apply it, during a fight it can be used to decrease the heart rate of an opponent, which when done too fast causes the body to go into a cardiac arrest so long as the dose is strong enough" she smiled, matching his enthusiasm with her own. She'd explained and demonstrated this to Aiko during their first training session together, a memory she kept fondly.

The suggestion surprised him. Sure, the conversation was going all and well but he hadn't expected the gesture back. Deciding to not yet respond on it, he listened intently as she continued to speak further. When she began about the Kettle Bettle, Koike almost forgot that he held a glass with wine in his left hand.
"Intriguing. Have you conducted any tests by any chance?" He asked, "I usually try to find feedback and notes of others who had conducted tests on how certain poisons and herbs can affect a person. But it is rare that theory is one hundred percent accurate with what happens in the field."

The Genin smiled sheepishly as he asked if she had done any field tests. "Well... I have, but... " she closed her eyes and exhaled a sigh while smiling, "I suppose I owe you this story given Aiko let me have yours about the trap" she continued before opening her eyes as she inhaled and composed to begin, "Back when I first made the discovery I was breaking down the plant extracts into liquid form... which as you know is normal practice for allowing us to tip our weapons during the field. Well, I was preparing to set vials for a morning hunt to experiment the discovery on animals of various sizes however I would never actually make it that far... " she blushed a little, "Shortly after leaving I'd forgotten to wash my hands and after unscrewing the top of my water skin I took a drink... unbeknownst that the rim was now covered with the sedative. I spent the next few hours on the ground with no concept of time after that, so in short... it definitely works" she grinned.

His curiosity grew but Koike remained silent to let Satia speak on her own. He wondered where the story went but then it became halfway somewhat clear that it wouldn't wind up well. His eyes half closed as he tried to restrain a chuckle. "Heh, thanks." His smile grew as he could just imagine how awkward such a scene must have been.

Another chuckle escaped Koike. "Well, luckily it was just one mistake. I have more or less started to dabble in crafting bombs. There are a lot of ingredients that you can mix up with various effects. One of them is lamb's blood. Which sounds super ominous, I know. But anyways, I was working on it and accidentally let a bomb explode in my workplace, at Azumi. It spread blood all over the tools and ingredients. Worst was that I was half covered in lamb's blood. Before I could 'recover'," he said, with an amused emphasis on the word, "Three members of the Guardians rushed in. Just spotting me half under the blood. I was dragged to be checked and told to not move too much."
Only after finishing, Koike realised that it had sounded funnier in his mind. Glancing at his drink, he returned his gaze at Satia. "Shall I grab you something to drink perhaps?"

Satia closed her eyes for a moment and shook her head as he reacted to her story, pushing herself past her own embarrassment about it. Mistakes were just one of those things that happened no matter what field of knowledge you were in. She would listen as Koike explained his story about a bomb incorporating lambs blood and would bring a hand to her mouth before giving a light laugh into her hand, "That's sweet that they had such concern for your well being though" she replied. She would once again recompose herself from laughing at the story before she gave another warm smile, inclining her head forwards a little respectfully. "That'd be lovely, thank you" she replied, "However I should remain here, even if it's not my duty I must make sure the kids down there are safe" she would once again peer over to see how they were getting on before looking back to Koike, "But please hurry back, I'm rather enjoying our conversation and I'd love to hear more about your Genin antics" she gave a small subtle smirk.

He had experienced it more as a nuisance. But that was probably because back then he had been most annoyed and embarrassed at the whole affair. For a moment, he wondered if those three Guardians were still alive. Quick to push the thoughts of the east out of his mind, he nodded. "I understand."
The fact that she admitted that she enjoyed their conversation made Koike take a step away from her as he performed a light bow towards her. "Of course."

Turning on his heels and walk back inside, he briefly glanced at the little content in the glass he was holding. With a swig, he emptied the glass and didn't need long to find two glasses of wine. He took a moment to wonder what to think of this all. Deciding to not think about it and just enjoy the evening, he would return to Satia. Holding up a glass for her, he threw a glance at the children. "So," he began, trying to weigh his words carefully. "What has made you decide to spend company with them? I reckon that they are a more cheerful bunch than some others inside. That is for sure."

When he performed the light bow she would tip her heads forwards in a light bow of her own in response, fulfilling the formal etiquette which was more of a second nature for her in such events. She was quite pleased with how the conversation was going and while it was certainly not expected she felt like she'd gleaned more about him than she would have expected. For a moment she dared to think that perhaps her father had indeed found her a good match before frowning and pushing the thought aside, not allowing herself to factor that in to anything concerning her future. Koike was a handsome and charming man and only moments ago had proved himself a gentlemen. He read books, shared common interests, indeed she would imagine they could have some interesting discussions.

She would turn and watch over the children below, leaning on the stone rail as she watched them run about playing, hiding from one another or kicking around something taken from the feast which appeared to be some kind of bent tankard. His voice brought her attention back to him as he returned with their drinks, taking one of the glasses graciously with a smile before listening as he asked why it was she was out here with the children. "Honestly, they chose me. I had been alone and for whatever reason they chose me to be apart of their games" she softly chuckled, "But you're right in a way they're far more pleasant company. Untouched by the troubles of the world that plague older minds" she took a small sparing sip from the wine, savoring the taste on her pallet for a moment before swallowing, it wasn't bad at all.

Watching the children, he listened to Satia's answer. Remaining silent for a moment, he would nod slowly. ”They surely seem able to enjoy themselves without indulging in all kind of complicated matters. I bet, however, that if I start to kick around like that then I will be scolded.” A smile briefly presented itself on his lips. Taking a sip of his drink, he would once more lean against the stone railing.

”Pardon me but how come that you're alone? I must admit that I am not much of a politician. Or civilian. Soldiering has perhaps dented some knowledge or understanding of social etiquette for me. Isn't it, however, more common that men flock to the likes of you?” He decided to bring up. His tone a clear indication that he tried to more or less joke about it.

He was right, he'd very likely be frowned upon for joining in such trivial childish games which was a shame when you considered the reasons why came down to nothing more than etiquette of how one might be expected to behave. She watched them with him, smiling at their innocence and wondering how long it would last before they too were pushed into the unforgiving world of responsibility and struggle. She sincerely hoped they would maybe last a bit longer before that time would come to pass.

She'd look up to her side at him when he asked why she was alone, causing her to give a soft expression of amusement before shaking her head lightly. "I've had many suitors presented before me, letters requesting my attention and sometimes even gifts" she let out a small sigh. "I'm just not interested in giving up what I have to become someone's precious trinket to keep safely at home while they're out fighting, protecting and leading" her words implied it'd been men of rank and prestige that'd called for her attention.

"I chose the life of a Shinobi over the duties of nobility, because there is much out there to see, to experience and learn. Many cultures to enrich my time in this world and I don't want to miss it by staying home in comfort raising a family. I might want something like that in time, but for now I'm content to explore and the military provides that for me" she replied openly and honestly. "However, thank you" she replied with a small smile, acknowledging his compliment.

Upon hearing the answer, Koike gained a smirk on his features. He remembered how Kazumo had reacted when Aiko had placed the question upon him, regarding Satia's looks. Turning his gaze back at the children, he remained silent for a moment. Choosing a military duty over the duty of being a noble. It was something he could somewhat try to relate to.
"You are welcome," Koike replied in turn. "Though, what places would you like to visit? I could give some recommendations but I suppose that being on a mission doesn't provide the best touristic views. So my opinion on some places might be a tad biased."

Considering something, he decided to continue on briefly. "Not that I have been to an awful lot of places. Just a few." Yet, he somehow still considered his previous comment a bit pretentious. "I still want to visit some places outside the Empire."

She would form her own smirk across her features before it grew into a small casual smile, "Would it be foolish of me to say everywhere?" she said with a raised eyebrow before deciding to elaborate. "I haven't visited many places outside of Akino and Amegakure is likely the furthest place I've visited from Konogakure since enlisting" she admitted, "So whenever an opportunity prevents itself I'm eager to place my feet down on the soil of lands they haven't yet crossed" she replied, her choice in words some what poetic in how she chose to convey her wanderlust. "If I may be so bold, you carry the presence of a man whom I suspect has seen a lot during their time and you appear to wear it proudly on your shoulders. Might I steal a moment to learn a bit more about the man behind the scars?" she tilted her head curiously as her eyes looked at him, almost as if the man were an enigma she was willing to discover.

"Perhaps, a tiny bit. I don't think that you would like the desolation of the Snow country." The tone of Koike marked it clear that he was attempting to joke casually about it. Hearing where she had been, he was about to ask what she thought of Amegakure.
However, her question made him throw a curious sideways look at Satia. He briefly felt a bit uncomfortable but that was merely because he wasn't entirely certain how to react in return.

"Sure. Ask away," Koike told her. There was a shift change in his composure, becoming slightly cautious. "Though, don't let the scars fool you too much. Mere souvenirs of mistakes than glorious battles, I fear." He added, trying to come off as joking.

The girl would nod her head once in understanding, knowing that regardless of the conversation thus far it was best to still tread lightly as she didn't quite know his situation. She would smile, picking up the undertones to his words, feeling a little more comfortable in her position as she took a small sip from her wine, "Mistakes are good, they allow us to grow as people" she said optimistically before deciding to get right into the point of why she'd brought it all up to begin with, "Tell me about yourself Koike, so far I've learned your taste for books and eagerness for poisons, but I'd like to know more about who you are" she said, holding the glass between her hands as she watched him closely and curiously.

Taking a sip of his drink, he initially wanted to disagree with her. Mistakes were sometimes good. But he didn't want to appear petty or cause a discussion between him and her. Her request made him glance back at the children. More so because he wasn't sure what to say in return. Grateful for the dim light, hoping it wouldn't allow too much insight on the shift of his composure becoming more cautious.

"Well, for one, I am a guy." He began, a grin starting to appear on his lips. He half turned to Satia as he would continue. "I am 19 years old." Though he tried to keep up the witty attitude, he was running out of things to say. "I suppose that I have a similar idea to why I enlisted in the shinobi corps and military. I got a shinobi team under my wing and since recently been appointed as a colonel of the 13th brigade."
Pausing, Koike thought of something that would perhaps sound much less arrogant. And perhaps more fun for her to hear. Trying to appear as confident as he could, he spoke again. "I am also decent at dancing. Horrible at singing, though."

[/spoili]
[/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox=The Wolf and Butterfly, wheat]
In Magnhild,
During the Feast.
Part 2
A collab between Winter and Gerontis.

Summary:
Satia Cho and Koike Hon meet and interact. They have a lengthy conversation, some drinks and eventually start a small game of witty banter. A bet is made and the stakes are raised. Will the wolf succumb or will it be the butterfly?




[spoili]
"I'd never have guessed" she replied, matching the jest in his tone with her own as she angled her head to further express her joke before listening as he went on to explain a few details. She could tell her was a little uncomfortable, perhaps somewhat reserved as he spoke maybe due to not knowing her very well which was likely. Though perhaps for more reasons presently unknown to the young Cho girl. Hearing his recent promotion she would smile and incline her head respectfully, "That is quite the achievement, congratulations" she replied, her tone quite genuine as she smiled. She would take another small sip from her glass, once again pausing to let the taste cling to her palate before swallowing. "A man who can dance?" she raised both her eyebrows as she smirked, "Now I really am impressed" she grinned. With a background such as hers, she'd been exposed to tutoring for such things at an early age, learning how to dance, play an instrument and sing, though singing was what she enjoyed most of what she'd learned.

And there was a mistake, Koike thought to himself. He had meant it as a mere joke but he wasn't sure if she had taken those words serious. "Thanks. Though, it isn't that big." He realised that it wouldn't really help to accept a compliment or some praise and then try to diffuse it a second later. "Other than that, I fear that I wouldn't know what else to tell you. I," quickly considering how to move the topic from dancing, Koike gained an idea.

"I have been to various places. Both in and outside of the Empire. If you want, I could perhaps tell you some of those places." He suggested, trying to conjure a disarming smile for extra effect.

Listening as he finished his explanation she smiled and gave yet another small nod, pleased to have learned at least a little bit from what he'd offered her. She cast her gaze to the side once more and checked on the children who now seemed to huddling together likely to discuss a game rule or who would be playing what role in their make belief stories. When he mentioned offering her some insight onto the places he'd been too she smiled warmly, "That'd be lovely, thank you" she replied softly, thinking to maybe make it a little easier for him by providing a question for him to pick up the subject with. "What has been the location you've visited that you've enjoyed the most?" she asked politely.

Almost instantly a name came up in mind. But he decided to give it a second or two before he answered in return. There were a few places where he had enjoyed both the atmosphere as scenery. "There is this small village. South of Keishi. Near the coast of Yosuke Bay. Nanporo. Can't have more than around 200 people living there. If not, perhaps even less." He began, a soft smile finding its way on his lips. Throwing a look at the ongoing festive activities inside, Koike continued.
"I went there as one of the leading officers. The first mission of my team, which acted as the leading team for various other teams that would come with us. The objective was to bring some peace back as constant assaults by brigands were starting to cause some unrest. Usually, the local militia or nearby Imperial garrison would take care of it. But there were some disturbing signs. So we were sent. I didn't have much time to relax. There wasn't also a lot of sightseeing of imposing or awe-inspiring buildings. But the scenery. It was grand."

Pausing for a second time, Koike thought back to somebody. "It was so good that one member of my team resigned and decided to pick up a civilian life in the village. Found himself a girl and has been enjoying himself."

The young Cho girl followed his gaze to look back into the event taking place inside, listening and looking back up at him when he went on to explain about a place, in particular, that’d stuck out in his mind. “It sounds wonderful” she replied softly, “It certainly must be a place for someone to make such a decision so suddenly like that”. She wished she could respond with a story of her own but unfortunately, she hadn’t really been anywhere, well nowhere that really stuck with her anyway. Satia would take a small sparing sip from her glass before reaching to hook some of her fringe behind her ear, her hair having been styled in such a way that it elegantly swept down to one side, pinned up with the decorative metal flower pins. “And what about you Koike, do you have plans to settle down?” she asked curiously.

He nodded. It sure was quite the place. Of course, it should be even better now. Without the unrest and problems that the place had before. Perhaps he should write Kazuo soon? It was the least he could do. The question of Satia pulled Koike down to earth as he seriously considered it. "One day. There is this weird desire, you know. Once you are in the military, you want to be sent out. To experience what it is to soldier. Danger and all that adventure." An amused scoff followed.
"But I think I want to settle down, eventually. I want to experience something else than earn money with fighting. Though, I doubt that with this face I will be an excellent merchant. Perhaps running an inn? A scarred innkeeper? Sounds like a good start for some weird tale."

She was pleased to learn there was more to Koike than just fighting or seeking to rise up the ladder to gain more power and monetary success. She smiled and nodded before an amused smirk would start to spread across her features, perking a brow as he mentioned his scars and running an Inn. "Hmm, certainly not a bad way to retire, but hadn't anyone ever told you that girls like scars?" she grinned, her tone somewhat slightly teasing though in the spirit of good jest. Of course it was common for young boy to be told by their mothers that girls liked scars upon suffering an injury while playing outside.

Turning his head slightly to throw a sideways look, Koike couldn't resist to frown and smile somewhat.
"I have been told. Problem is that you got the normal cuts that some soldiers tend to have. The small cuts that are just over a cheek. Or just something small enough. Now," raising his right thumb, Koike moved it over the large diagonal cut, "I believe that this overdoing it a tad."
Deciding to risk a question, as well allowing him to steer the conversation away from the scars, he continued.
"If you don't mind me though. I am slightly surprised by your choice of attire. It certainly compliments you. But I am more so curious why you decided with a wear that is more Taika."

In response to him explaining the difference in scars she merely retained a softer smile before taking a sip from her glass and once again casting her gaze into the event. Her ears pricked slightly at hearing the kids yelling behind them but she quickly deduced they were still just playing and nothing was wrong. The Genin smiled warmly when he complimented her attire, inclining her head in acknowledgement and thanks before she considered his question for a moment, "Well, my lineage hails from Taika... I am of the Tashigi lineage" she replied in a tone that conveyed a small amount of pride, "I know there are many among the Chonobi aristocracy who frown upon our origins, but I chose to wear it proudly. I would have them know I am not afraid of their opinions and that I won't bend knee to their criticisms of where it is me and my family come from" she smiled.

He found it rather curious response. And there was something bold to it. "I have to say, I admire such a response. If I had only been aware that I was in the presence of such a descendant of such a prestigious line, I would have perhaps taken sooner the chance to offer a dance." Koike replied, the last line being a mere jest. It was certainly interesting in his opinion. Such a stance was admirable but certainly would leave some with a bad taste in their mouth. Luckily, there was little to worry for they were far from the Cho clan heartlands. Taking a sip of his drink, he threw a glance inside. "Though, I am also content to just stay here and talk. Too long ago since I have enjoyed myself at a feast with mere talking."

She appreciated his words and it showed in her smile as she listened to his response, giving a small gentle laugh at his jest about offering her to dance. "Honestly I prefer to present myself as a Shinobi rather than by the status of my lineage. I find people tend to treat me as they see me in front of them and not as a product of nobility... or some kind of bargaining chip" she replied. It didn't take a wise man to guess that people would treat her differently knowing which lineage she belonged to, so it made a lot of sense for why she preferred presenting herself this way instead. "However in this instance, you have my reasons for why I've chosen this attire" she smiled. The Genin listened as he explained his enjoyment of their conversation, tilting her head to the side a little, "You are quite the charmer it seems, quite subtle too" she said, once more with a slight teasing jest to her tone.

"It can have its perks. Though, you must admit. It is likely quite fun to be treated with some respect. Something that is hard to find as a shinobi in many fields and places." His own experiences said enough but he did hope she wouldn't have to endure the same treatment. There was something he wanted to say about what she said about being a bargaining chip. But decided against it. He didn't want to sully the conversation with a jest that could be taken wrong. The compliment was received with Koike flashing a smile. Lightly bowing his head, he would return a reply. "I might have been able to pick up some skill in charming here and there. You wouldn't believe how effective a disarming smile or compliment can be on a mission." Taking a sip of his drink, he reconsidered his words and realised it could be taken in a wrong fashion. Trying to 'save' himself, Koike added something to his comment. "Though, I wouldn't advise throwing some charm in the middle of a scuffle. I wager that can be quite... awkward."

Satia gave a small inwards chuckle to accompany her small smile, her expression indicative that she was rather enjoying the conversation thus far. “I believe respect is earned, not inherited. I am merely a Genin now but in time I hope to grow and see that I’ll get it on my own through application of hard work and the consequences that come with it” she replied before raising her glass once more to her lips before taking a sip, listening as he explained his use of charm in the field which caused her smile to stretch into an amused grin, “Awkward? you mean to tell me your adversaries wouldn’t swoon over your skill and artistry over the spoken word? … well they’re clearly missing out” she replied, her tone carrying a jestful tone.

"I have to agree. Respect earned is more satisfying regardless." He paused for a moment. "So, what are you reaching for, if I may ask? I might assume wrong but I have never heard anybody that was content with just staying as a genin." Though he considered that it was probably one of the least troublesome ranks. The jest that followed was received with a short laugh that Koike tried to snort back. "If I had such skill then perhaps I would try it. I suppose I will first need to find somebody who would be willing to try to test this particular approach first." He replied back, shaking his head. The mere image of such a scenery was amusing enough to keep a grin on his lips.

Her smile brightened at his response to her jest, eventually adding her own soft laugh to his as she considered what such a thing might look like amidst a fighting situation in the field. She would take another small sip as she watched the snowfall for a moment, snow being one of her most favorite weather conditions which she'd enjoyed since she was a little girl back at Tenghua where she'd often play within the gardens during the winter. Perhaps it was because of the beauty within it, the way it fell with such grace to gently blanket the land in a sheet of white, stealing color but in doing so creating it's own unique beauty. She'd return her gaze to him as she considered his question, "Oh I wouldn't say I'm content. I hope to one day reach a position of authority and status to forward my own ambitions. But I want to achieve it" she smiled again, "What I mean to say is that I don't want it handed to me freely. After all nothing in this life ever worth having came easy, wouldn't you agree?" she replied.
[/spoili]
[/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox=The Wolf and Butterfly, wheat]
In Magnhild,
During the Feast.
Part 3
A collab between Winter and Gerontis.

Summary:
Satia Cho and Koike Hon meet and interact. They have a lengthy conversation, some drinks and eventually start a small game of witty banter. A bet is made and the stakes are raised. Will the wolf succumb or will it be the butterfly?




[spoili]
Once more Koike found himself agreeing with her. He remembered when he was offered his promotion last time. He had been close to walk out of the office when they had told him that he had earned a promotion. The night before that flashed past his mind. Reminding him of Hayate and Saki. Where they were now. Briefly, Koike wasn't sure what to say. But he managed to conjure a reply back. "Sometimes yes. But what about to receive something nice? A promotion is being acknowledged that you have done well. Proven that you were loyal. Competent." The young man paused for a moment as he kept his eyes on Satia, curious about something. "I already think that Aiko is quite content with the abilities you have shown. Would you turn down a promotion if you were given one right now, based on Aiko's opinion?"

The Cho girl blinked as he asked a rather interesting question and looked thoughtful for a moment as she considered it carefully, her brows knitting together a little as she delved into the question and how she would feel about such a situation. "I think it'd depend on the reasons why" she replied honestly. "If I was provided reason that was proof enough that I'd earned it fairly, then I suppose I would accept it... although my personal preference would have been earning it through my actions in the field" she looked to the side for a moment before casting her gaze back to him, "I would sooner accept that method of promotion then I would passing a test that requires me to tick boxes, of course I'm talking about the Chuunin exam" she said with a small smile. It was nice to hear that Aiko was pleased with her performance thus far, it meant at least she was heading in the right direction.

Her answer made him smile and then chuckle. "Heh, I am not so sure if I now agree with you. I do agree that having promotion from what you achieved in the field feels good. But some missions are from rewarding." Realising that was quite grim, Koike would swiftly continue. "Ticking some boxes can also be quite rewarding. I managed to screw up big time, after all, at my first attempt at the Chuunin exams. I managed to pass only after my second attempt. Oddly enough," a frown found its way back on Koike's brow. "I was constantly set up against Hyuuga."

Satia inclined her head in a motion to concede after he gave his response, "Perhaps you're right, I hadn't thought of it like that" she replied with a small chuckle of her own, retaining her smile as she listened to him explain his own experiences. "I just want to be sure I'm deserving of my promotions, I'd hate to think I couldn't measure up to my responsibilities due to lack of honing something either physically or mentally" she replied honestly. She finished her glass finally, having taken her time with it before placing it down on the stone rail with a small audible 'clink', "You mentioned going against a Hyuuga?" she asked tilting her head a little, "How did that work out for you?" she asked curiously.

The fact that Satia didn't seem to be down about his words made him feel a bit more at comfort. "It does say a lot about you though," He decided to state in a friendly tone when she brought up that she wanted a promotion once she truly deserved it. There were people who prefer to rise as fast as they could. Not to mention, as high as they could. The soft clink made him realise that he hadn't finished his drink. Taking a sip from his glass, her next question made Koike put his glass also down. "Would you believe me if I told you that I pulled a risky gamble? By poisoning myself?" He decided to ask first. "The first time, I was not fully focused on my opponent. The second time, well, yeah. A dumb gamble."

Responding with her usual modicum of wit and charm she gave a small smirk and inclined her head to the side a little, "Good things I hope" she replied when he mentioned his impressions of her so far. She would cast her gaze down over the stone rail to spot the children again before looking back as he mentioned poisoning himself, causing her to let out a small surprised gasp, her intrigue peeking her attention as she listened to him explain a little more. "Poisoning yourself?" she repeated, "That is quite the gamble, how did you manage to pull that off? and more importantly why?" she asked, her eyes looking between his as if to gain more information out of them, caught up in her own unstated curiosity as she awaited his response.

"So far, yes," He replied at first. The surprised gasp almost caused Koike to burst into laughter as she followed it up with questions. He could laugh about it now. Most likely on how it had worked out. "Mhm. The second time that I entered the Chuunin exams, it was so organised that there were three rounds. The first round, I was pitted against a Hyuuga. I had some confidence in my abilities but no matter what I would do he would see through my genjutsu. And I didn't want to put my money on taijutsu. So, I decided to come up with a plan. A ruse, you could say." Pausing on purpose, Koike would direct his gaze at the feast. An idea coming up in his mind.

"I decided that I should play it smarter. First, what came to mind? " He paused once more as he shifted his attention back on Satia. "I decided to drop a smoke bomb. Which contained a paralyzer. The problem was that I thus hindered my own vision and would eventually expose myself to my own poison. But my opponent didn't become wary of the dark green tint of the smog. He came charging straight at me. I was unable to do much seeing how I was sure that I had no chance in close ranged against a Hyuuga. So, I decided to use the time time to prepare the body replacement technique. By the time that the Hyuuga had crossed the distance and was about to attack me, I decided to pull another risk." He wished for a moment that he had his tools with him. But perhaps it was for the better if there were children nearby.

"I threw a surprise at him. I wanted to take his eyes out and I imagined that some liquid mixed with hogweed would do the trick. By the time that he recomposed and attacked me, I was already gone. Body replacement," For a second, Koike felt a bit proud of how that gamble had worked out. "Then I decided to just stay at a distance. Take my only antidote and watch how the poor guy broke down. Allowing me to pass to the second and third round." Deciding to not yet conclude it there, Koike would turn his head towards the entrance to the feast for a second, before looking back at Satia. There was a second that he visibly hesitated about something.
"I could tell you about the second and third round. But it is getting a bit cold. How about instead we head inside? I might do a better job impressing you with some dance than some stories."

The Genin listened to the story intently, smiling as she hung almost on his every word as he recounted the situation. Satia absolutely adored strategy and used it herself in many of her approaches into a situation, quite enjoying the physiological aspect of play that came into fighting an opponent, the battle of wits that came into play long before the actual attack itself. Aiko was masterful at this which she'd learned throughout their training sessions and she'd endeavored to hone her own strategies here and there to improve herself in a likewise fashion. "That is incredible, though I can see how it was a big risk" she replied with a smile. "I must admit such strategy is a big interest of mine, I love hearing and observing the skill that comes from having to outwit your opponent. It goes to show there is more to fighting than simply being the strongest or fastest" she continued before listening as he mentioned heading inside and possibly impressing her with dance. "You're certainly welcome to try" she teased with a small smirk before she composed herself to walk with him, "I'd love to".

Hearing that she also was a fan of strategy, Koike's lips parted. "If you are, I might be able to borrow you then one of my books. Ever heard of the 'A Lifetime of Bloody War'? It sounds grim but it is written by Ingvar, a good book about the various strategies and tactics employed during the Tokugawa conquest. As some small engagements before. It isn't as dry as some other works," Koike suggested, almost completely forgetting that he had asked her for a dance. Realising this, he would turn and walk with her inside. There was a brief second he wanted to question if they shouldn't bring the children inside. But they would likely be able to take care of themselves.

One part of the hall was reserved for some dance. Room was made and those who manned an instrument played a calm and soothful tone. Something that Koike was grateful for. It was the kind of music that Saki had instructed him. A fond memory that he tried to bring up. Turning towards Satia, Koike would offer his right hand. "I do have to ask though," he would keep his voice on a low volume, just audible for Satia, "You asked me before about settling down. How about you?"

Just when she thought he couldn't intrigue her more, he mentioned a book she hadn't yet heard of before, causing her to once again listen intently as they moved away from the stone terrace. Before they would enter she'd move to the left a little, approaching one of the guards policing the event to ensure everything was kept safe, doubly so considering the Empress herself was in attendance. "There are some children playing just below the terrace, could you please keep an eye on them?" she asked, the guard giving a single nod. "Thank you" she replied softly before she would follow Koike inside. Once they both had made their way over to the dance floor she would take his offered hand, stepping closer towards him before allowing him to lead her into the dance. His question brought her to think for a moment, "One day I hope to settle down, but I haven't any intentions to settle down just yet" she answered truthfully, "Like I said before there's much of the world I want to see and experience first".

Holding the hand up, he tried to remember how he was supposed to do this. It didn't help that it was quite some time ago. Only coming to the realisation that he had used the wrong hand. "Well, can't go back now," Koike thought to himself as he listened to her answer. Placing his left hand at her shoulder blade, his hands cupped and fingers together. But now came the most dangerous. Knowing fully well from his experience from various battles and dangerous scenario that making a mistake in movement could lead to trouble. Lots of trouble. Briefly, Koike's eyes lowered as he tried to focus on the steps.
"Really? I can recommend heading west then." he decided to start as he felt comfortable to not panic over his steps. "The cities of the River province are a good place to visit. Certainly Hanaguro, the capital of the province. All you need is just a good guide and I am certain you will have a splendid time. Just, don't head further west. Going into the desert is quite, uncomfortable. Unless you like the idea of sand in every pocket possible."

She could tell he was somewhat nervous about the dance and decided to make it a little easier for him as she slowed to let him ease into being more comfortable with her as his partner. Dancing for her came quite easily and not just because of her history and who she was, in fact Satia used dance as a base for a lot of her combat movements and acrobatic fighting techniques in the field. Quite often when Satia would spread her knives in the palm of her hand to create a steel fan, she'd never use them to directly stop an incoming attack from a blade. Rather she would use fluid movement and momentum to push the energy away from her, redirecting the motion and movement of her opponents. It was a very intricate style of fighting, one she honed well over the years. "I'll have to keep those names in mind and write them down" she replied, "As for sand... it's not too bad, wet sand however... now that is where I draw the line" she grinned. "Although if I find myself heading in that direction I might have to convince you to guide for me" she replied.

A smile followed a soft chuckle. He could agree. Wet sand was just terrible. Though what was worse had to be the heat. Unbearable. Remembering the three times that he had been so far west, Koike tried to focus himself on Satia. Her last comment made Koike slightly frown. His lips forming a "o," for a second. Remaining silent, he would gently and slowly push with the hands that they were holding to signal a dip. Offering some support with his other hand, Koike replied back. "And when are we going then? I must confess that I won’t need much convincing to head that way."

At first, seeing him frown she worried she might have overstepped or said something to sully the conversation before hearing him ask her a follow up question. She considered it, wondering when she'd possibly have time for something like that but the truth was either of them would only really catch that kind of time upon temporary leave from the military till they were called back to service. The Genin let him guide her as she followed the dip, bending backwards to let him support her over before moving her feet to gracefully sweep back into the same position as before. "That's a good question. I suppose it'd be dependent either on where we're stationed or whether or not we'd both have leave at similar times" she replied, "Although I'm open to suggestions" she smiled.

Helping her gently to move back to the previous position, his heart skipped a beat. His eyes were still locked on hers. A glint became faintly visible in his eyes, some pride swelling as the dip had gone without a problem. "That is true. Though, I assume that it just requires a bit of convincing. Perhaps I could manage some arrangement." Already he thought about it. The journey towards Hanaguro was breathtaking already. It would be best to travel on horseback and would take them through various clan heartlands. Then again, going on foot or traveling with a merchant caravan had its advantages as well. "I might need to suggest a small detour. Going through the Yakimara heartlands is highly recommended." Pausing, he would decide to ask her something. "Sorry, here I am. Talking constantly about these distance places." Flashing a smile, Koike continued. "How about starting somewhere close by. I might need to leave within a day or two, back to my post. How about tomorrow I show you something? I know a place in the city. It has a good view. Just requires us to not get detected by anybody."

She listened to his idea, considering it for a moment as they danced, still allowing him to lead her through the steps. So far he'd proven himself quite the capable dancer which came as a bit of a surprise to her considering most either knew the basics or lacked confidence, yet the dip had been completed smoothly and she was actually rather enjoying herself. "Providing we don't get caught?" she replied, tilting her head a little as if to accuse him in jest, "I do hope you're not trying to get me into trouble, that'd make you a bad influence" she replied with a small amused smirk which changed as she changed her tone to one more serious, "However tomorrow sounds agreeable to me" she replied, "Where should I find you?" she asked curiously.

So far, so good. He considered pulling a risk by doing a spin. But for now, he decided to build up some courage. "Indeed." His voice became softer as if they were about to scheme the downfall of the Empire. "Besides, I reckon that I am quite a bad influence indeed. I lured you away from those kids and now speaking of sneaking around."
Thinking about how they could meet, Koike decided to lay out the instructions for her. "Meet me at the northern districts. There is an establishment called 'Tovi's Mugs'. A tavern which is quite small. I have some affairs in the morning and in the noon. Best time would be in the late afternoon. I would advise to dress yourself warm." Pausing for a moment, his dark brown eyes scanned around them before focusing back on Satia's eyes. "Do make certain you aren't followed." He added, barely trying to mask the amusement in his voice.

Satia softly chuckled, "That you did, I'm surprised the children haven't sought us out by now" she furrowed her brow a little as she felt slightly worried but then assured herself the guard she'd asked to watch them had it all under control. The Genin listened as Koike explained where to meet and to make sure they're not followed, giving a subtle not as she maintained his eye contact, "I'll be sure I'm not seen when I leave... something easier said than done with a teacher such as Aiko however" she added with a smile. "I'll think of something". Moving quickly and being unseen was among her stronger skill sets, although as good as she was the girl was quite confident Aiko would be better. She'd have to be extra careful to avoid being caught.

"I am sure you'll think of something. Else, you just got to come up with a good diversion." He briefly weighed Aiko into the affair. If the woman wanted, then Satia wouldn't be able to sneak away. But from the earlier conversation, Koike was certain that Aiko was keen on spending time with Kei and Akimoto. Slowly Koike would raise the hand he was holding with Satia, to see what her reaction would be as he initiated the spin. "I got to admit, this is going rather well. Last time I danced, my left foot was all blue. Perhaps you’re not so bad after all," He jested, the hint of a frown appearing on his brow.

When he raised her hand she would step, bending her arm slightly before completing the spin gracefully, causing her dress to fan slightly with the motion. With the spin complete she would step backwards, extending both their arms out before letting him draw her back in, completing the movement fluidly. "I don't like to disappoint" she replied with a modicum of wit to accompany her small amused smirk as she replied. "You're not so bad either, a solid A for effort" she teased. She wondered how she could distract the Jounin, considering for a moment the possibility of using the children, nothing that would compromise them of course... but perhaps if she could convince the children to approach Aiko with a game that would be enough to buy her enough time to slip away.

"An A? And here I thought I was a solid B," he replied, unable to resist a chuckle as she delivered a witty remark back. Drawing her back in, he would resume the standard ballroom stance that they had before. "If this event was less formal, then I would have danced the roof off." Knowing it was a bluff, he felt confident enough. The music should, at least, stay this formal and calm for a while. Certainly with a good number of Taika and Yakimara being present. "Though, I do imagine that you're not the type to spend much time in taverns. Or around people that can be 'bad influences'."

The Genin lets herself be lead back into the starting position as she followed his movements, listening with a small amused smile as he replied, even shaking her head a little as she rolled her eyes. "Oh really now?" she replied as her eyebrows raised once again, her tone rising as if the connotations behind his words reflected a judgement on her character, "And what 'type' of girl do you think I am exactly?" she asked, maintaining eye contact as she awaited her reply, knowing that perhaps such a question might light a little bit of a fire under his rear end.

The exchange was quite fun, in his opinion. Still leading but remaining cautious to not make a mistake, Koike would at first just flash a faint smile. ”Let us see,” he began on a tone that seemed as if they were about to discuss the specifics about a particular plant and what facts he knew. ”You are good with children. Being praised by the likes of Aiko Cho-Hon. You got suitors who even have gifts. Quite educated from what I can gather of what you told me before.”
Pausing, Koike’s smile became more evident. ”I think you are the kind of girl who never set afoot in a tavern and stayed there for a good portion of the night. Which is a shame, honestly. You are quite the pleasant company.”

She couldn't help but grin as he replied, closing her eyes as she let out a small amused sound, looking down for a moment before once again looking up at him. "And your charm continues, something tells me I'm not the first girl to bare witness to your vocal talents" she teased before replying to his analytical response about her in relation to having ever stayed in a tavern. "Well, I'll have you know I have in fact stayed at a tavern before. In fact it was one of the first things I did right before I was placed under Aiko-sensei's command" she replied. "And for the record, I'm rather enjoying your company too. Seeing how much you're concentrating on not messing up the dance is quite endearing" she said with a knowing smirk.

His features softened as he experienced her reaction. Her comment didn’t do much to pierce or cause a crack of guilt or pain. Not as much as he would fear such a reply before. ”What can I say? I am quite the bad influence.” He tried to make it sound off as it was worthy boast to sound proud off. But he was too amused to feign it well enough. Hearing that she had already stayed in a tavern, he slightly frowned upon hearing this.
”Ah, truly? But was it to drink, sing and dance? In a much different fashion than right now?” He decided to ask. Satia’s later comment made Koike blink rapidly for a second. Only to wonder how obvious it had been. ”Well, I guess you got me. I can’t think of anything witty to defend myself. ”

"You should be careful Koike, I hear women are often attracted to a bad influence" she replied, retaining her amused smirk before she would listen to his questions, cocking her head to the side a little as she considered it. "Alright I have to admit I haven't done that, when I stayed in one it was only for mission purposes" she replied, actually realizing she'd never even witnessed an event where people had danced and sang in a tavern, she could imagine it'd be quite fun and a lot less pressure than an event such as this. Her amused grin returned when he mentioned not having a witty response, "Well you shouldn't worry to much, you have tomorrow to try and even the score".

Her first comment provoked a soft as amused scoff from Koike. ”And here I thought that you wouldn’t be like those women.” He would throw back as a lightheart tease. Koike couldn’t understand entirely why he was so intrigued by her. Or well, he could name several factors the weighed in. The young man listened to her last response. ”And be certain of that I will make it even. Though,” his tone became a bit more serious, though it was obvious it was somewhat feigned, ”I do think it might be wise that you wouldn’t indulge too much into the drinks. I have never seen a proper lady being able to endure more than five drinks. But know what? I will pay for all the drinks nonetheless. Can’t be more than three, I wager.”

The Genin tilted her head slightly, "Oh so you're assuming I'm attracted to you?" she replied, maintaining the battle of wit and banter, responding to his light tease. Listening as he went on to explain about how many drinks she could handle she couldn't help but let out an amused sound along with a small laugh before she raised an eyebrow, "That sounds awfully a lot like a challenge" she replied, "As a 'lady' who deals with various poisons on an almost routine basis, I would be confident in you losing such a wager" she replied with a smirk.

Her reply did catch him off-guard. Before he had a witty remark at the ready to fire back, he already realised that she had him there. A chuckle escaped Koike as he shook his head lightly. ”I sadly can’t think of anything to deliver a proper riposte, good lady,” Was his reply at first. ”But fair enough.” Her later reply caused him to slightly frown. He wondered how much she now could actually drink. Seeing her height and size, he didn’t imagine much. But it wouldn’t be the first time he had made such a mistake. Probably not the last either. ”Oh? You almost make me want to raise a bet on who can drink more. But that would be quite unfair. Towards you. Not to mention, I can’t think of anything right now that would make the bet worthwhile. Seeing robbing a lady of her coins is anything but noble.”

"That's twice I've gotten the better of you now, you're falling behind" she teased as they danced, another dip coming up in the break between the instrumental notes, sweeping her foot back again to prepare herself for the move which required her to bend herself backwards, relying on him to support her. Hearing him continue to tease her further caused her to narrow her eyes, feigning offense as she allowed herself to continue to indulge in the playfulness of the banter. "A bet sounds interesting and while it'd be amusing to watch you walk away without my coin, how about we play for something more interesting" she replied, "If I win, 'I' will cover the tab for both our drinks to further your embarrassment. But if you win... I'll let you take me on an official date" she replied, maintaining her amused expression.

”Seems so. I don’t believe that Bergjlot or any of the gods, for that matter, is giving me much luck this evening. Perhaps I should have tried to aim for a less intelligent opponent.” Feeling more at ease, Koike had little trouble with the dip. He considered to sustain the dip for a little second longer but would go along as they would move back to the original position. ”Hmm.” He seemed to ponder over the proposal. It did pique his interest. If there was a chance he lost, then he would not lose any coin but some of his own proclaimed dignity. Despite not considering himself as somebody with a large sense of pride, he didn’t like the idea that somebody else would pay for him. Not in such a manner. But if he would win, then that meant he could try to get even with her. Or perhaps score more than he was doing now, instead of allowing her getting the better of him.
”Very well. Consider it on. I will have to say that I will be looking forward to paying the drinks. It won’t surely be more than eight, in total.” Winking, Koike did wonder briefly how he would try to go on an ‘official date’. In theory, he had told Hayate that he could take up two days. Deciding to not worry about it, Koike continued. ”Perhaps I should consider where to take you then? Somewhere nice, such as a park? Though it isn’t exactly the best season for a picnic.”

She inclined her head forwards a little to acknowledge the bet was on, actually looking forwards to testing her metal, although quite unsure why. Satia was small and petite and not someone who could handle a lot of alcohol by any means, especially given she was quite disciplined in how she maintained herself both physically and internally, whether it was eating healthily or exercising regularly. Perhaps she was also quite intrigued by Koike, enough so that she was willing to allow herself to be goaded into a challenge she was unlikely to win. "Quite confident aren't you" she smirked with amusement, "I wouldn't start planning just yet, after all you haven't bested me just yet and I'm still on a two point lead" she smiled warmly.

He wanted to joke that he felt far from confident. But the truth was that he was feeling confident. Not because he was almost certain that he could put more on the line, that he would win the bet but because of how things were going. Today had some serious setbacks but they didn’t matter for now. ”What can I say? I suppose I need to make a comeback. Even if it is quite amusing to see you enjoying to be in the lead. I should try to remember it when tomorrow I have to open my purse,” The grin widened on his lips. ”Perhaps I will buy you a nice ribbon while I am at it?”
Hearing that the music was slowly trailing, heralding the end and beginning of a break, Koike wished that it would continue on. Just for a bit longer. The exchanges that he had with Satia, together with becoming more familiar with the pace and steps of their dance - both verbal as physical were too enjoyable to end so soon, in his opinion. ”Know what? If by some miracle you will win tomorrow. I will be the one wearing a ribbon. Any preferences for a particular color?”

When the song eventually came to a close ending the dance, Satia would step backwards from Koike and perform a curtsy along with the other women who stepped back from their partners. It was of course apart of the display and also a sign of respect, one Satia knew well from past experiences in such venues. After Koike mentioned a ribbon she took on an exaggerated thinking expression for a moment as she tapped her cheek before she smiled, "I like blues and purples, such colors would look quite pretty on you I should think" she replied with amusement.

Making a small bow in return, Koike made a note of the colours. Only to hear her retort. The reply made him want to challenge her for another dance or why not start drinking now. But this wasn't the place to have a drinking bet ongoing. Certainly not for people of their status. "I thought that you would go for something as white and pink. But very well. Blue and purple, it is. So, I suppose that I will see you tomorrow then?"

Satia raised her eyebrow and smirked slightly, "You might be surprised to learn I'm not your average lady, Koike" she replied before she would inclined her head forwards at the mention of meeting tomorrow at the agreed place and time, taking her right fist and pressing it against her left palm respectfully. "Till tomorrow then and thank you for the dance, it was a lot of fun" she said warmly, she would turn to take her leave before pausing for a moment, "Oh and... don't be late~" it was her turn to wink before she would depart from his company, making her way through the hall towards the terrace to check on the children and make sure they were being looked after. Then perhaps she would see who else she could strike a conversation with, she thought perhaps there was time for one more interaction before she would turn in for the night, especially since she now had business to attend to tomorrow.

Unable to hide a smile from dawning on his lips, Koike subtly nodded before he would return the same gesture. He wasn't perhaps a Cho, he was well aware with the specific bow. As Satia would take her leave, Koike's smile grew. There was something on his mind but he decided not to say it. Half turning, he noticed just in time that she paused and told him not to be late. "I wouldn't dare." He mumbled, likely not audible enough for her to hear as she would walk away.
Walking from the part of the hall where people danced as a new tune of music would be played, Koike released a soft sigh. Rubbing his neck for a second, he decided to go and get another drink. Perhaps something rid himself of the smile that plagued his lips.

[/spoili]
[/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox="Basics of Survival, #00B2EE"]Kukiko Yuki, Shion Kobayashi, and Yuyuko Takeda | Jounin of Team 17 | Republic of the Water Country, Kirigakure, Training Fields

A collab between @Walter Swan, @Sakayanagi Selko, and the Frostiest of Camels


Team 17 undertakes a mission to scout and clear an old and seemingly abandoned Outpost. They run into trouble.
[spoili]

Kukiko stood on the road at the edge of Kirigakure, a steady rain pattering off her hood as she waited for her team to show up. They’d gotten their second mission, or at least what would be the second for Shion, it’d be Yuyuko’s first. It was simple and Kukiko had high hopes that the two Genin could gain a bit of confidence and some light experience in the more non-combat oriented parts of being a Shinobi on something this simple. She turned to look into the rain, down the road that led inland. Here visibility was low, but she wasn’t expecting trouble today and the rain obscuring her sight didn’t bother her very much considering their task. She shivered and retched for a few moments, not producing anything she stood back up and wiped her mouth clean. She continued to wait.


Shion flickered into existence, her feet sliding across the rain-soaked ground as she whizzed past Kukiko, before coming to a stop a few feet away from the jonin.


"Tha-that was close," the genin muttered shakily as she doubled over in relief, “Body flicker technique is scary…”


As Shion noticed Kukiko, she pulled onto the hood of her dark-blue raincoat, trying to cover up her blushing face, as she approached the jonin, “G-greetings, sensei. Great weather today, huh?”


A few minutes after, there was the sound of splashing as Yuyuko came running over at a controlled pace as she had decided to not use the body flicker due with the rain that poured regularly in the area.

Granted she was not going to be early but it is better than becoming a flying cannonball as she gently stopped near them.

“Hello sensei, Shion san.. I am sorry if I am abit late…” she said apologetically as she adjusted her dark brown rain coat as her oni mask was seen covering her eye as usual as she put a hand to shield her working left eye from the rain.


Kukiko raised an eyebrow as Shion slid into sight, “That was close.” she agreed before waving to the genin, “Good morning.” she said with a smile. They waited for a while longer and Yuyuko arrived, running her way down the road she stopped by them and offered her greetings, and she was wearing that damned mask. Kukiko sighed and weighed her options, she didn’t imagine they’d be meeting any resistance on the mission, so she’d allow the mask for now.


“Yuyuko nice of you to make it.” she gestured down the road, “We’re to observe and scout an old fort further inland. It was once used to train chuunin on survival skills as it’s rather isolated but it fell into disuse after the Revolution… They want us to make sure no one else is using it when they shouldn’t be.” she shrugged and began walking, “We’ve got thirty kilometers to go so let’s hop to it, we should make it before sundown if I’m being honest.” she was already a few feet ahead of the genin and didn’t seem to look back to see if they were coming or not.


“Hello there, Yuyu,” Shion greeted her partner as she glanced at her working eye before turning to Kukiko as she began her briefing. As the jonin started to leave, the young swordsman followed her from behind as she shouted, “Sensei!”, with a raised hand.


“What if there’s someone using the fort?” she asked before she slammed her fist into her palm, “Can we kick their butt?”


Yuyuko nodded acknowledging Shion and Kukiko’s replies while paying attention to the briefing that their sensei was giving. The fort going by her sensei’s description sounded impressive if it was used for survival training and might give her an idea of the forts her father may have seen in his lifetime, something to really look forward to


As she heard Shion’s question, she chuckled slightly as she wondered whether it would be that easy since there is the off chance where they may need to hold their attacks until after confirming the intentions of the person they may or may not find.


Kukiko raised an eyebrow at her students questions, she hummed to herself for a moment as she thought, “Well it’s indeed very possible some brigands have taken root in the fort since it’s fell into disuse…” she shrugged and continued forward with her Genin in tow, “If there are, we ask them nicely to leave first. And if that doesn’t work,” she brandished a fist for them to see as she went, “Then we make them leave. But I don’t expect any trouble, if anything this will be a quick and easy mission, and a good way for you two to learn some survival skills once we get there.”


"Hehe, that's great to know," Shion replied with a chuckle, "Also since the fortress is used for testing Chunins, are there any traps?”


“Ahh, a fortress from ancient times, guarded by traps,” she squealed with delight, “It’s like something out of a legend!”


"Oh, but hang on," the genin paused, rubbing her chin, "If there are any trap, they might have dissuaded most intruders already."


Yuyuko nodded as she heard the words of her jonin sensei and kept pace with the two as she pondered slightly over Shion’s own consideration.


“Unless of course they managed to evade any traps that have not jammed due to age or failures before finding the main mechanism to disarm them.” Yuyuko adds thoughtfully to Shion.


Kukiko shook her head as she walked. Traps? What did they think this was a pirates treasure? “This is a fort. It didn't need traps it had walls and a gate, defenders. There shouldn't be any traps from when it was still in use because there probably never were any traps in the first place.” she continued walking and decided to quiz the Genin a bit as they went. Give them something to think about that related to the past use of the fort, especially if this mission saw it out back into use for survival training… She'd be recommending them both for it despite their ranks.


“Alright a question for you two.” she said as she turned on her heels and began walking backwards as she watched her two Genin, “What are the four biggest necessities of survival in the wild? Each of you give me two.” she asked of them while holding up four fingers.


Shion paused for a moment she heard Kukiko’s quiz on survival. She held her head in both hands, trying to think of the answers, “Four necessities for survival…Four necessities for survival…”


“Umm, first we need to…hydrate ourselves so ‘water’ would be one of the first necessities,” Shion held up her pinky, counting off one of the answers, “And…and…the water needs to be clean so we need to filter and…boil it…and that would mean…ahah, got it! Boiling requires fire and so does cooking.”


“Therefore the second necessity would be ‘fire’!” she declared, holding up her ring finger next.


Yuyuko started to think while Shion answered water along with fire after some thought. With those options down as Yuyuko did not want to leech of Shion’s answers, her brain thought of what could be a necessity before she answered.

“I think a shelter or roof, maybe a structure that be used for defence and allow us a proper place to sleep.”


“the second...umm, would it be maybe a supply of weapons since we can use them to hunt for food and defend ourselves?”

Yuyuko replied as she was not sure if her answer was a fully correct one and hence had to answer cautiously.


She was happy with the responses she had gotten back even if they were only partially correct. She continued walking backwards and raised three fingers into the air, “You got three of the four I wanted, and then kind of the fourth.” she gave them a smile and continued, “Water, Shelter, Fire, and Food. Although not necessarily in that order.” she continued stepping backwards her feet splashing through small puddles in the road as she went, “Personally I’d strive for shelter first, then fire, water and food in that order. You don’t need tools to catch or gather food. You can catch food with nothing more than simple things found in nature like sticks and a rock along with your own two hands and some ingenuity.”


She tilted her head to the side, “Now… You can both ask me one question, as a reward for answering mostly correct.”


"Any question, hmm?" Shion rubbed her hands together with a smirk, “Heheheh, let’s see then. What should I ask? Hmmm~”


“Hmm…oh, I got it!” the young swordsman declared with a snap of her fingers before she pranced towards Kukiko with a smug glee, “Sensei, do you have a crush on anyone? Or maybe…even a lover?”


Yuyuko went into some thought as she decided on what to ask as there was a bunch of things the genin wanted to ask Kukiko about while avoiding any landmines.

“how about...hmm...what did you feel has changed from when you were a genin? I am rather interested how life was when you were a genin.”

Yuyuko said while increasing her pace to catch up with Shion.


Kukiko thought for a moment, a bit taken back by Shions question. She felt a deep ache in her chest begin to rise at the painful memories of her past. She shook her head and frowned, “Not for a very long time.” was all she answered to Shion before turning her attention from the uncomfortable question and onto Yuyuko. She thought for a bit before resting her gaze on the mask upon the girls face.


She nodded and her expression was cold as she began to speak, “I think you’re all far too weak. It’s my job to get you both up to snuff but I shouldn't have to work over the terrible job the Academy did of getting you at least decent. When I was a Genin… My Jounin would have beat me to within an inch of my life over something as stupid as that damn mask.” she pointed at the girls mask and began to wonder if she shouldn’t beat her student over it. She badly wanted to, especially since it would take her mind off of the deep ache in her chest that was only getting worse with every passing second. She pivoted on her feet to turn away from both the Genin and hide her face, “You’re both far too carefree. Growing up in a time of this relative peace has made everyone too soft. When the next big conflict comes, or we’re fighting more than simple pickpockets, there will be far too many dead to count on our side if all the academy grads for the last few years are even remotely similar to what I see in you both.” she spat. She wanted to take the words back, but she had decided a long time ago to be truthful with her students, even over things they wouldn’t like the truth from.


Shion paused in her track for a moment, surprised by Kukiko’s reaction to her joking question. It must have hit far too close to home, considering that the Jonin could have been involved in the past wars, "I'm sorry about that, sensei. I-I should have known about that..."


Next, the jonin answered Yuyuko’s question with a rant, causing the young swordsman to frown, “I myself think we’re both pretty strong, sensei.”


“Buttt if you insist, why don’t you train us yourself?” she continued on with a smirk, “As Masakage-jii-san said, ‘If you want something done right, do it yourself.’ Right, Yuyuko?”


Yuyuko’s eyes blinked slightly as she heard the answer of her Jonin sensei’s answer to her and Shion’s question. With both answers, it gave Yuyuko much insight in her sensei as she put her right hand against her mask considering what was said, trying to hide any expression that may show on the side not covered by her mask.


Her thoughts were soon interrupted when she heard Shion referring to her father Masakage as her mind caught the last sentence of Shion’s words before she replied. “Uhh, yes, that is what father does make an effort to remind me.”


Kukiko shook her head at Shion as she apologized for her question, “You couldn’t have known. It’s not a problem.” she put a hand out to her side and spun it around in circles. “It’s not that I don’t plan on training you both. I just feel the Academy didn’t do its job in the first place and now I have to do far more work than I should to get you both up to snuff.”. She turned back around to face her students and continue walking backwards, “Simple question this time. What do each of you believe your biggest strength and your biggest weakness is?” she fell silent for a moment before opening her mouth again, “Personally my biggest strength is the fact I look like I’m down with the plague,” she shrugged, “people underestimate me because of it. My weakness… I’d say it’s my want to control as much as possible in a situation, especially things that aren’t within my ability to control.” she turned the floor over to the her students as she kept pacing back.


"Heh, that's an easy question. I am one of the very best when it comes to Kenjutsu," Shion boasted with a puffed chest before pointing her thumb at Yuyuko, “In fact, even to this day, only Yuyu could match me in pure swordsmanship.”


“That said though, there’s only so many things a sword could cut,” she pouted, “That’s why I’m trying to learn Samurai Sabre Technique. And…oh yeah. Yuyu’s pebbles gave me a lot of troubles in most of the spars so small projectiles could also count as my weakness?”


Yuyuko let out a small breath as she decided to think about the question and reply to them as she tilted her head.

“Ummmm, I don’t know actually about my strengths. I more or less just try what seems to work while suiting what i like to help me climb up to the level Father and Mother are at, hopefully asap.”


She then paused before continuing, “for weakness, maybe bad shoes and at times, the ground? I don't like changing shoes a lot even if my shoes get worn out and plus it feels weird to walk barefooted. And sometimes I get hiccups when I train with father and mother so I suppose that counts, Desu?” she said tilting her head.


Listening intently to both of her students as they talked she’d find herself once again a little annoyed by the arrogance of Shion, the very same arrogance that had gotten her knocked out at their earlier training. She fought back the rage that boiled up from her gut and managed to keep her face calm and neutral as Shion moved onto her weakness. The first part wasn’t so much a real weakness that Kukiko would consider, not being able to cut everything would be a fact of life, even after she figured out the samurai sabre technique. The second part however, that she could work with, and rather easily too. It seemed Shion’s weakness was her reflexes or reaction time. She smirked as she got an idea for the rest of their walk to the fort.


When Yuyuko’s turn came, Kukiko found herself once more concerned with the young Genin. She had asked such a thoughtful question in comparison to Shion’s, the sort of thing that hinted to a greater intelligence beneath the young girls… outer appearance. She wasn’t sure on her strengths, but playing to what she knew and was comfortable with was a bit of a strength in and of itself. Kukiko wrote of the girls strength as knowing her limits. Her weakness? Kukiko was pretty sure it was her rather scattered personality. She formed a hand seal and around them small balls of ice began to form in the air around them, no larger than a ping-pong ball in size. “Alright Shion, let’s practice your reaction time then.” without warning two of the balls would fly for Shion and a third for Yuyuko specifically from her blindspot due to the mask.


Night had fallen sometime before, and all the team had to lead their way was the increasingly seldom slivers of moonlight as the clouds above them crept eerily past. The team had come to a halt at the bottom of a narrow and winding footpath that led up to the outpost they were tasked with inspecting and securing if necessary. The outpost itself was in disarray, the wooden palisade around it was overgrown and in places entire sections had leaned far to either side and even completely toppled over in another. The gate itself was askew, as was obvious by the fact they could see through a human sized sliver into the clouds beyond through the two large gate doors.


Kukiko studied the sky above the outpost for a moment, squinting at the moving clouds above before she decided she was not watching a particularly fast moving streamer of clouds but instead the smoke from a campfire within the outpost itself. She turned to her Genin who had spent the last few hours of their time dodging their Jounin’s ice as they walked, but nothing that would make them too tired to fight if the need came to it. She wondered if either of them would be bruised after that. She pointed a finger up at the barely visible column of smoke rising from the outpost, “Seems there are unwelcome guests here.” she said before dropping her finger, “We’re going in quietly and taking them without any injuries as long as they don’t fight back, last thing I want is for a Genin to kill some poor hunter or smuggler because you two get too on edge.” she said as she turned back toward the outpost and began picking her way up the path.


They would move slowly to to the main gate and upon finding it undefended she motioned for the two to follow her. She swept into the open yard beyond the gate and made a straight line for the one story building that the smoke was rising from. Kukiko would stop along the edge of the door, a faint beam of light escaping from under it and turn to her students, “Lose the mask Yuyuko.” she said quietly before she placed a hand on the door knob and turned it so slowly it barely made a noise. She gripped a kunai in one hand pulled the door open quickly moving into the room in a flash and finding it to be an empty hallway. She breathed out, a sigh of relief that she wasn’t yet having to spill blood before noticing the open door further down the hall that the light was emanating from. Voices trailed out of it and the sound of a crackling fire and smell of meats cooking overwhelmed the hallway. Stepping silently down the hallway she risked a glance around the corner and pulled her head back quickly, she turned to her students spoke in a voice lower than a whisper, “Four men, they’re unarmed, we apprehend them and see what’s going on.” she waited for their answers before she’d signal them to take the room.


Shion followed closely behind Kukiko, rubbing a small bruise on her forehead she got from the sudden training. She was sweating lightly, her body warmed up from dodging the jonin's projectiles for the last few hours. Though her muscles felt a bit sore, it was nothing she couldn’t handle.


As Kukiko finished her briefing, Shion nodded and peeked a glance into the room before whispering to her masked rival, “Yuyu, watch my back.”


The genin silently drew her katana and took out a shuriken from her pouch with her off-hand, hiding the small star between her thumb and index finger. After taking a deep breath, she shouted, “Shinobi Forces here!” as she strutted into the room with her sword resting on her shoulder.


“So you bastards,” she pointed her sword at the criminals, “What in the void are you…’cooking up’ right now?”


As Yuyuko followed on after her jonin sensei and Shion, she had quite a few knocks to her face due to being kept on her toes by the balls of ice that was flicked at her. Granted unlike Shion, her mask tanked some of the damage, however, that was made up by how she had a few more bruises due to ones were shot at her from her blindspot but at least it was workable for her too.


Soon afterwards, she kept her ears open to her sensei as Kukiko briefed them on what they were to do, Yuyuko staying silent as they headed to the door before answering Shion’s request with a small “ok.” before her head tilted slightly upon hearing Kukiko’s order.


Great….but then again it probably is serious enough that it necessitated it as she slipped off the mask she normally wore and slid it into her coat and begun to ready her left hand with 2 pebbles. After that, she put her hand near the hilt of her sword as she followed behind Shion, occasionally opening and closing her right eye to readjust back to her vision or as Yuyuko called it, her ‘serious mode’.


As the two Genin entered the room, shouting their commands that obviously told the smugglers not to run they’d hesitate for a moment, taking in the two girls and seeming to decide if they could make a break for it or not. They at once appeared to make the same decision to instead surrender when the taller Kukiko entered the room looking rather upset with the whole situation. The men fell to their knees and placed their hands over their heads in such a fluid motion that it suggested they had been arrested many times in the past. They bellowed out surrenders and laced their fingers together on top of their heads while they waited for the three Shinobi to bind their hands where they couldn’t use them.


Entering the room behind her Genin, she was less than happy with the way in which Shion had decided to enter. She’d need to walk them through what good announcing yourself can do, if any, in a situation like this. She’d much rather have preferred to have just talked the men down if given the opportunity. She walked forward in between her two students with a kunai in her hand and knelt behind the first of the four men, “Keep an eye on the other three, I’ll get them all bound.” she said to her students before a moment later standing and moving away from the newly tied up smuggler.


“We’re only smugglers! We won’t be charged with anything worth while, we’re barely smuggling anything really! Just sugar and wheat!” one called. Another appeared to think about hitting him before deciding that was a bad idea and instead decided to verbally assault his companion, “Are you fucking dumb?! Why would you say that? You idiot!”


Kukiko raised an eyebrow as she tied the third man and moved to the fourth, “Smugglers huh? Anything you think we should know before we go rifling through your stuff and find something more than sugars and wheat?” she asked curiously of the men. One of them appeared about to talk when Kukiko noticed something in her periphere. A glint in the doorway to the Genin’s backs and a flash of something to her left on the other side of the rooms window, she raised a hand to point at the cloaked man with a short sword coming up behind the Genin and managed the first syllable of the word behind before a single panel of the window shattered in as an arrow passed through it and struck the jounin in the neck sending her toppling over in an unmoving mass.


As Shion heard Kukiko’s voice, she turned on her front foot, to create some distances and face her attacker, as she haphazardly threw a shuriken at him. Realizing that the jonin’s warning was cut off by something breaking through the window, the genin took a glance at her, seeing to her horror that she was crumpled on the floor with an arrow stuck in her neck, “Sensei!”


Right now, they needed to prevent the archer from firing another arrow especially with an enemy in the same room. They did have smoke bombs to obscure the view but detonating one of them in the room might result in a blind brawl, the last thing they want. Then again, they only needed to obscure the archer’s vision...


Shion shouted, “Yuyu! Drop smoke bombs outside the window and take sensei to cover! I will deal with this one!”


The genin glared at the cloaked man as she stood in her fighting stance, her sword held in front of her waist with the tip of the blade pointing down at the floor.


Yuyuko turned hard as she saw the attacker and then heard Kukiko crumpling on the floor.

While Yuyuko did consider drawing her sword, Shion seemed to have gone into her fighting stance preparing to deal with their attacker. Yuyuko at that moment decided to follow Shion’s lead reaching into her pouch with her right hand and threw a bunch of smoke bombs outside the window while moving towards Kukiko while keeping ready her left hand with her pebbles just in case she needs to help Shion gain the advantage in the fight that may soon come.

Yuyuko then looked at Kukiko’s injuries so as to see how bad the damage is before breathing a sigh of relief. Luckily, the arrow ended up being lodged in Kukiko’s flak jacket around the sensei’s neck guard. “Don’t worry sensei, just relax.”

Yuyuko said as she begins to try to move her sensei away from the view of any windows in the room so they wouldn’t have to worry about getting sniped again.


The man in front of Shion would begin to move to her right, circling the girl slightly as his eyes stared out from under his hood. He said something in a language that definitely wasn’t Taika and a second cloaked figure would enter the room and take the position the first had been standing in before he had moved. With another unrecognizable noise the first man would lunge forward at Shion, the sword jabbing straight for her right flank before he’d suddenly stop and pull it back from the Genin. To her front the second ma would come at her with a sweeping strike from her left, timed almost perfectly with the first man's feint it would come at the side the girl would no longer be protecting.


Kukiko found herself staring at the ceiling with a throbbing pain in the side of her neck as if she had been hit with something particularly hard. When Yuyuko appeared over her and began to drag her somewhere Kukiko quickly snapped back into the moment. She sat up quickly and pulled the arrow from her collar. She took only a moment to realize that her genin had blocked the view from the windows with their smoke bombs and that Shion appeared to be in more than a little bit of trouble as she versed two hooded figures. She rose to her feet, “Help Shion with the one on the right, I can handle the one at the door.” she said loud enough for the Genin to hear before she ran forward and past the tied up smugglers who were all lying on the ground now.


There was a resoundingly large crack as the sword of the second man struck metal before it could reach Shion. Kukiko lifted her hand straight up sending the man’s sword up with it as she reached her free hand for his neck. The man gasped as the jounins fingers wrapped around his windpipe and squeezed. She was no more than a few seconds from crushing his throat when she felt the sword held against her kunai shift and slip away. She looked up in time to move her head away as the man brought the hilt of the katana down on her. Her shoulder stung as the hilt landed hard and Kukiko let go of the man’s neck who quickly took the moment to move back toward the door of the room.


"Sensei!?" Shion said in disbelief as the jonin deflected the strike aimed at her. Saving her surprise and celebration for later, the genin focused her attention on the first cloaked man, as she raised her sword above her head, while Kukiko was keeping the new attacker busy.


The genin grimaced as the jonin ordered Yuyuko to assist her. Though she was confident in her ability to deal with the cloaked man, she didn’t have the luxury to refuse her help with the archer outside. The genin shook her head as an image of Kukiko crumpled on the floor flashed in her mind. Right now, the best course of action would be to finish the fight before the smoke dissipated enough for the one outside to get a clear shot or else…


Pushing forward with her back-foot, the genin shot towards the cloaked man as she delivered a diagonal cut aimed at the left side of his neck, the same side in which he was holding his sword.


Yuyuko was greatly surprised the moment she saw Kukiko begin to get up as she nodded hearing her sensei’s instructions before seeing Kukiko parry and begun to engage the second opponent which left Shion and her to deal with the original one which Yuyuko moved to assist, first to position herself such that Shion and the first man was on her left field of vision.


As Shion begun her lunge, Yuyuko raised her left hand before flicking a pebble at Shion’s foe, the trajectory of it aimed at the right from the center of the man’s hood due to it most likely being the man’s face was and as she knew it would mean her pebble should be able to hit slightly before Shion’s lunge did.


The cloaked man would raise his sword to deflect Shion’s strike, a clash of metal filling the air for a moment before he would push the girls sword back and fall into place with the second man at the door. He rubbed at his face under his hood, the pebble from Yuyuko had struck, but with the adrenaline pumping through his veins he had barely noticed the sting when it happened and found himself confused at the feeling. His friend said something low and both the men backed out of the door with their weapons still readied at the Shinobi.


In the time it had taken her opponent to reach the door, Shion and Yuyuko had managed to let theirs slip away as well. She placed their combat ability at that of an experienced Chuunin, together she figured they’d put up quite a fight even for her. Shion and Yuyuko? The stood no chance even two on one. Kukiko stepped forward to follow as the men backed out of the door and turned to her Genin, “Out the window cut them off! Watch for the archer!” she yelled as she would slip two shuriken from her pouch and step into the hall. A flash of steel alerted her that one of the men had been waiting for someone to leave the doorway and she was suddenly very happy she had decided to send the Genin out the window and not through this death trap. She dropped in time for the sword to scrape off the wall and lunged forward with the kunai in her hand. A warm liquid began to flow over her hand as she plunged the blade into the stomach of the unlucky bastard that had thought he could catch her off guard again. He stumbled back, pressed at his stomach and leaned against the wall of the hallway. He slid down it quietly.


Kukiko noticed he was still breathing and holding pressure to his wound, but she knew he wasn’t going anywhere soon. She left the man and ran for the exit of the building, bursting through the doorway too fast for anyone waiting to kill her upon exit she spun to survey the courtyard and try and spot her students.

"Roger that, sensei!" Shion replied as she threw a smoke bomb outside the window to cover their exit. Just as she was about to vault out the window, the genin paused for a moment before she formed a hand-seal, summoning two water clones by her sides as one of them transformed into an exact replica of Yuyuko.

"Yuyu, we're going out after the clones," the young swordsman said as the clones vaulted out of the window and into the smoke, “With an archer outside, it would be best to send out some decoys first.”

“Shall we?” Shion asked, as she climbed onto the window-sill.


Yuyuko on her part had a smile on her face as her and Shion’s foe were beating a hasty retreat. With Kukiko’s instruction to go after them via the window, Yuyuko moved her hands to take out 2 shurikens from one of her pouches with her right and a pebble in her left one.


As Shion said they are to go after the clones, she nodded in approval as Yuyuko too had the same concerns like her partner about that archer.


“let’s and on the double.” Yuyuko called as she followed after the clones out the window, a few moments later, a thumping of footsteps told her that Shuon was right behind her.


The archer loosed as two shinobi burst forth from the smoke in front of him. His arrow flew true and struck the first of the girls before they could react. He cursed himself and notched a second arrow as the girl burst into water before his eyes. The archer would turn and begin to run for the gate while aiming his bow for the second running figure. He launched the arrow and managed to graze the girl, sending the clone tumbling into a puddle of water as it fell apart. He cursed again and reached for another arrow, notched it and sent it into the smoke that the clones had come out of, he notched again and repeated the shot.


Kukiko watched as Shion was hit by an arrow and her heart dropped for a moment only to find it was an overreaction as the girl burst into water. She turned her view away from the archer, her students had it covered, and tried to find the second swordsman. She spotted someone leaving the derelict gate at the front of the outpost and took off ina sprint. Moving out the gate she caught sight of the second swordsman and another, yet unseen man as they mounted two horses. Forming a flurry of handseals she would form a large amount of small ice needles around her. The first man took off on his horse and the second followed close behind, she let the needles fly. The rider in the back passed in front of the second rider just as the needles would have passed him and unluckily enough took them all for his companion. The horse went over in a cloud of dust and sent the lifeless body of the man flying off it as it did. “Gods damnit” she cursed as she could barely see the second rider making off through the cloud of dust from the horse. She ran up to the man that had been thrown from his horse and made sure he had expired before she began to run back for the outpost and her students.


"Whoa!" Shion exclaimed as an arrow brushed past her and embedded itself into the wall behind. Just a second ago, the genin felt the connection break between her and the clones which would mean they were destroyed already.


“This is quite troublesome,” the young swordsman commented, “Alright, Yuyu, I will go out from the left and you go out from the right. That will make it harder for the archer to track both of us at the same time.”


Shion then dove out of the smoke into the open as she readied her blade in a fighting stance, “Come at me, you bastards!”


Yuyuko was surprised like Shion when she saw the arrow hit but recovered quickly as she at least was happy it was a clone and not them who got hit as she nodded. “On it, Shion.”


With that, Yuyuko jumped out through the window from the left on the shooter’s right and out of the smoke from that side as she pulled out two shurikens in her hand readying them to be thrown at any foes that enter her line of sight, preferably the archer who may be shooting at them.


The archer would notice the two shinobi as they burst from the smoke on opposite side of him, he cursed again and took a knee as he knocked an arrow and aimed for the girl on his right. He loosed and cursed again as the arrow went long and behind her. He rose and grabbed for another arrow from his quiver, attempting to knock it with shaking hands as the two shinobi closed on him. The archer fumbled, the arrow fell and he dropped his bow as he tore a small knife from his waistband and brandished it at the two shinobi, “Don’t you two fucks come any closer!” he yelled as he continued to flash the knife at them both, “I won’t give up shit to you lowlifes!”


"Uh, huh? With that dinky little knife?" Shion stepped forward with a smirk, her sword pointed down at the ground as her wrists relaxed, "What if we get closer? Then what?"


"Your friends are either running like rats, captured or lying down dead in the dirts," she continued as she took another step forward, "You're outnumbered two to one against trained shinobi and not to mention, we have a jonin coming right up who can skewer you like a yakitori from before you even see her.”


“Oh, speak of the devil,” the genin pointed behind the archer, at Kukiko who was now entering the courtyard, “There she is~”


Yuyuko cringed as she saw the arrow fly past her before she let out a small pant.

She at least was glad as had the arrow hit, she may not have the same amount of luck like her sensei to survive it, however her eyes seemed to dull as her mind seemed to trail off.


Then as the archer pulled out his knife, Yuyuko’s eyes focused on it as though in a trance, focusing only on the knife and the eyes of the archer. As Shion begun her banter, Yuyuko’s breath begun to quicken slightly as a thought ran through her head. Then in the next moment the archer finished saying low lifes, Yuyuko raised her left hand to her shoulder and gave it a quick flick throwing the 2 shurikens in it at the archer, one flying at the archer’s left shoulder near his heart and the other at the archer’s right hip.

In that same instance, the left hand that threw the shuriken it held, moved to the sheath of Fuurai before Yuyuko used her feet to close the distance with a quick jump and used the standard Iaido quickdraw slash aiming at around heart level hoping to either kill him, disarm him or, make him trip over due to how many attacks he had to deal with at once while she remained silent,unlike how she normally would be as loud and outspoken as Shion.


“I don’t give a shit what you say Shinobi!” the man would yell as his eyes widened in sudden confusion as one of the shuriken would dig into his hip. He stumbled back and fell over as he noticed the girl moving forward to strike. He let out a scream and thrust his knife.


Kukiko approached from behind the man, picking up her pace as Yuyuko seemed to decide to strike the cornered man. She watched as he fell before her and had to avert her eyes a moment as he plunged the knife into the side of his own neck before the girl could land her strike. She would run up and kick the knife from the man’s hand as he pulled it out of his own flesh. He gurgled and blood flowed freely in a smooth sheet down his neck quickly soaking his clothes. She knelt at his side and shoved her hands into the wound at his neck, attempting to staunch the flow to little effect. “What the fuck is wrong with you?!” she yelled at the dying man as his eyes searched frantically for something that wasn’t there, his hands came up and pressed against hers, an oddly unsettling movement from someone who had just been trying to kill her students only for him to smile slightly.


“Suzu…” he struggled and coughed, “will rise…”


She let her hands fall from the man’s neck as he went limp in front of her and quietly stood to face her students, “Gather the smugglers, we’re taking them back right now.” she stated, the tone making it obvious there would be no changes to the order.


"Huh?" Shion replied in confusion as she snapped out of her shock at the man's suicide, before the jonin's orders sank into her mind, "O-oh, yeah. The smugglers. Just a moment, sensei."


“Well, that was quite a dedication to his work, eh, Yuyuko?” she said to her friend with a nervous laughter as they walked back to the building, “Killing himself over a failed ‘smuggling’ job.”


Yuyuko while mildly surprised by the display remained quiet as she watches the person begin to die in her sensei’s arms. However her hands, body and sword were shaking, her eyes slightly dull as she watches the scene before she hears her Sensei’s order.


At that moment, she seemed to snap back into reality and nodded as she accompanied Shion, her brain not exactly processing her friend’s words. However when she sort of manages to process Shion’s words,her reply while short as they neared the door to pick up the smugglers was..”No….it is just stupid, but sadly, he is in a better place now, Desu.” Yuyuko said,her voice having a slight monotone with some struggle of trying to keep her voice happy as she fished out her vision blinding Oni mask to consider if she should rewear it or at least so she could put it on when Kukiko gives the ok.[/spoili][/fieldbox]
 
[fieldbox="A Small Reunion, #007dba"]Miyazato Aoi | Team 4 Chuunin | Magnhild
At the feast

Aoi runs into her uncle, Moru Miyazato, and they have a short conversation. This is honestly a small post to both characterize the two a bit more and fill a little gap in the feast timeline for Aoi. Nothing special.
[spoili]

Moru’s conversation with the Lord Omari done he was pretty sure he could finally retire from the party. It wasn’t his speed, the high born nobility of the land chatting and gossiping around small plates of finger foods and drinking some rather expensive spirits as they laughed and talked. Although admittedly he didn’t mind the drink selection. He had been making his way across the room to the exits through the press of partygoers when he caught sight of something a little familiar in the corner of his eye. He stopped and stared across the room as he caught another glimpse of an all too familiar color. Moru politely moved through the crowds, placing his hand on shoulders and pushing people gently aside to move closer to the sight that had caught his eyes. He let out a small laugh as he finally broke through the crowd and was able to know for sure what he had seen.

“Aoi! What are you doing here?! Didn’t take you for one to get invited to a party such as this!” he exclaimed as he raised his hands out to his sides for his niece.

Aoi had at some point become separated from Madoc and Meilin. She was pretty sure that Madoc had simply slipped away to get more drinks and food or to flirt with a particularly good looking noble, as far as she could tell for Meilin though, she had no clue where the Cho had gone off to and it made her more than a little worried with the amount of people here. She had been moving through the crowd trying to find the two before she gave up in a fit of annoyance as there were just simply too many people around to reliably pick out either of the two without knowing where they were in the first place. She stepped off to the side of the party and leaned herself against a wall as she continued to scan the partygoers for a sign of either of her teammates.

She nearly jumped in place when she heard a familiar voice calling to her. She quickly spun to see Moru, her uncle, smiling wide and teasing her right from the start. She pushed off the wall quickly and spread her arms to hug her uncle, “Moru, I had heard you were here.” she said as she pulled away from their quick embrace. She smiled wide and looked up at her taller relative, “Sometimes I guess I get lucky with these sort of things.” she replied as she would motion to the party, “I was invited by someone I can’t exactly say no to it would seem.” she said about why she was there.

Moru wrapped his young niece in his arms as she hugged him and let her go as she pulled away with a smile on his face, “Mmmm, would seem you know some rather important folks then… Who are they? A noble you got in good with on the job? A friend of a friend? Or perhaps… A wealthy suitor?” he looked around to try and find the alleged wealthy suitor as he smirked at his own joke. He enjoyed messing with his niece, she was strong headed and energetic and made for a perfect person to tease when given the chance.

She found herself growing suddenly embarrassed at her uncle's guesses as she knew she was more an afterthought for an invitation than the actual one invited. An extension of an offer. ”The Empress actually. Although not directly, she invited my team leader and the team was an extension of the invitation.” she added quickly to shoo away any ideas that Moru may have gotten. She grabbed his wrist and pulled him off to the side of the party as she began to wonder just what he’d been up to with all these fancy nobles.

Moru hummed and shook his head, “I’m sure the Empress invited you mhmm.” he said mockingly, “As if you’d be able to get the Empress to ever invite you. She’s the Empress!” he stated with a grin, perfectly aware it’d get to his niece. Once pulled out of the way he’d take a moment to look around at all the nobles and the representatives he’d been mingling with, “Well, so far I’ve made a few deals. With the Chonobi and a few other Taika clans. Nothing crazy, although a few of them are more interesting than others. But that’s a story for another time. What have you been up to Aoi?” he smiled out a the girl as he waved a server over to them and took two glasses of the sweet liquor the man was handing out. He gave one to Aoi and sipped from the other.

Deals? With the Chonobi? She was extremely curious, but also a little worried. She knew the history her family had with them, and yet it had been so long that she shouldn’t let it cloud her judgement, and still here it was, changing her outlook on these deals she knew nothing about. The question of what she’d been up to almost sent her into a flurry of words, everything she’d been a part of up until then vying for a position to make it from her head to her lips and into the ear of her uncle, ”I… Rejoined the Shinobi Corps as I’m sure you know by now…” she wished that Meilin or Madoc were around so she could introduce them, “Joined a new team with a Meilin Cho, she’s the leader and a Yamanaka by the name of Madoc, he’s a bit of a smug ass. There were some issues at first but…” she blushed a little, “I’m getting along well with both of them.” she said before taking a sip from the glass her uncle had gotten her.

So his niece had a Cho and a Yamanaka on the team, and apparently was getting along well with them both. He leaned in a little as he finished another sip of his drink, “Getting along well huh? How well? With both of them? Or one of them in particular?” he poked at her shoulder and teased.

”With both of them!” she quietly exclaimed as she swatted away his hand and felt a need to defend herself from Moru, ”They’re both great! We had issues to work through at first but we’ve all come to a bit of an understanding.” she felt good about them both despite everything that had happened between both sides, perhaps with a little more time the three of them would make a truly outstanding team. Barring any unexpected bumps in the road ahead she was practically sure they would. ”How about you Moru. Anything new and interesting to proclaim?” she asked, obviously a bit annoyed with him by the tone of her voice.

Moru raised a hand to his head and pretended to think for a little, “Nothing that comes to mind, no.” he said reluctantly. “Unless you count seeing you as interesting then I’d say no, the rest is boring political stuff.” he said with a laugh as he waved the thought away. “I talked with you mother a few months ago. Said you’re still single, a shame I think. She asked if I could arrange something for you with a lesser noble, get you a cushy life and a man to take care of your every need since she thinks you need help finding someone. It certainly seems you do.” he placed an arm across his chest and pointed a finger at the Chonobi sash around her waist while he raised an eyebrow, readying himself for the backlash that would surely come.

Aoi couldn’t agree more, politics, at least at this level of backroom deals and promises over drinks was a bit dull in the sense that it was only the word of one to another that things would happen, once pieces began to move she’d be far more interested in what Moru had actually achieved here. She found herself standing up a bit straighter and her hand curling into a fist as Moru brought up the fact that her mother was still pushing for her to get married and settle down as quickly as she could, ”I’ll have you know I’m perfectly capable of handling my own romantic decisions.” she mumbled as she looked away, ”My mother doesn’t know the first thing about making me happy past what to cook.” she lied as she searched for a way to disarm her uncle. ”Anyway, I’m a shinobi, I can’t just get married to some noble and quit this. It’s my job and my duty for now. Not getting married.” she raised her head up and offered a victorious smile to her uncle.

He enjoyed the way that Aoi became so embarrassed over the topic of arranging a marriage for her, something that her mother had been pushing for since she was no older than fourteen. Personally Moru was against it, he’d found his wife through more normal means and felt that Aoi had every right to do the same, yet his Sister-in-Law was a bit more conforming to the traditional ways, and the fact that the Miyazato name held a small amount of nobility to it was enough for her to push to reinforce that fact, and what easier way then to pawn off her own daughter for a bit of reputation? “Don’t worry Aoi. I told her I’d think about it. But I never will actually act on it. I’ll keep telling her that I’m still looking. The only other who could manage it would be your father himself, which I think could be very possible if we’re being honest.” he smiled out at her.

Aoi huffed and brought the glass to her mouth, finishing it in quick order she’d place it on the nearest table and turn her attention back on her uncle, ”Over my dead body. He knows I could kick his ass in a fair fight. He would never dare to do something like promise me away.” she said as she began to feel rather anxious about the whole thing. What if her father really did promise her off at some point? Pulled her from her current life and her team without a warning of any kind? ”I think he has more to worry about with the Shrine and training Miko than to marry off his daughter to some lesser noble somewhere.” she said, simply trying to make herself believe the fact in her own mind that her father wouldn’t do such a thing to her at the wishes of his wife.

Moru shook his head in agreement, “Of course he wouldn’t. He is far too busy with Miko and the Shrine I must agree.” he stated as he took another sip of his drink. He moved the conversation elsewhere as Aoi finished her drink in one go and became visibly upset with the topic, “I must say, you look quite stunning in a Chonobi dress. How’d that come to be exactly? Why my dearest Taika niece is wearing the formal wear of a clan of warriors?” he asked, a little confused at the get up his niece had chosen.

”He’d better not.” she reaffirmed before moving onto her dress, not fighting the change in the conversation, ”Meilin, the Cho, my team leader, took us shopping. And since we’re in Chonobi lands…” she shrugged, ”I figured I’d try something a bit out of the ordinary this time around.” she said as she played with the fabric at her sides and twirled the sash quietly around her hand. She continued to play with the fabric as she wondered what time it was and how much longer she could talk before she needed to meet the team at the garden, ”I should get going Moru, I need to meet with them…” she said with an apologetic smile before stepping forward and hugging Moru.

He found it interesting that his head strong niece had accepted his team leaders suggestion for clothes, or what he assumed was her suggestion, considering she was the Chonobi among the team. He'd need to ask a bit more about the girl at some point, just now didn't seem to be the proper time. “Whatever you say little one.” he replied as Aoi told him he had to go and gave him another hug. She pulled away and gave him another frown before placing her hands at her hips.

”I’m not little. Not anymore.” she said before giving him another smile and slipping into the crowd at their side.[/spoili][/fieldbox]
 
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