Imperial Gathering - 3
[ Empire of Akino | Kanazawa, Uchiha Heartlands ]
[ An Imperial gathering has been organised, in the city of Kanazawa. Honouring their oath to the crown, the Imperial clans flock to the city where they are generously welcomed by the Uchiha clan - who have the honours of organising the meeting. The Gathering is a special occasion for the Imperial clans to muster together and discuss various topics. Or bring suggestions to the crown. As expected, the event is woven with intrigue from the participants as backdoor deals and alliances have been forged. Rivals plotting to outdo the other or schemes to thwart the plans of others. ]

[A collab between the Akinian Clans ]







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Following the conversation, Kiyomi’s interest was piqued by the Tokugawa’s suggestion. She briefly wondered how many more would flock. Trade and generating more wealth seemed to be matters that all were interested in. If it was only that easy to make different clans and people unite, Kiyomi mused to herself.
"A fine proposition, Lord Tokugawa," Kyiomi spoke up, "I am most interested myself to see how this new center of trade will fare."
Generating a soft silence that echoed her words, Kiyomi would await if there would be another dignitary that was going to speak up.

After listening quietly for the different proposals that have been brought up, Resu had a few thoughts in mind. But when the Empress concluded the topic brought up by the Tokugawa, he rose from his seat "Respected and honoured lords and ladies. As I am sure at least several of you may be aware, the Senju had recently suffered a blow to our resources and farms. It served to show my clan several things. But it also served as a thought that goes further than just the Senju. It served to show overall of what could happen, to all of us, if we do not make sure we are always capable of properly defending ourselves." He took a pause to look around before continuing.

"I wish to propose that we provide further supplies to the Empire, so they will be able to provide further Imperial protection. And it could help in many fronts, not only the clans as the example I already brought up, but also in regions struck by unrest, such as how the Rain province was mentioned to have been, or perform further operations against the zealots. And of course, it would be uncalled for me to propose such a thing and not say that the Senju themselves would be providing resources themselves to help push this agenda forth. I just hope more of you will think of this proposal and see the benefits it can have." Resu finished speaking and sat back down, moving to take a sip from his drink as he waited to hear if anyone would have anything to say about his proposal.

”The Uchiha are sorry for the losses that the Senju have been forced to bear,” Hirasuke of the Uchiha began, ”and to show our support, we will be willing to provide some financial aid. It won’t allow those harmed to get all that they lost back. But, hopefully, it will provide some ailment.”
Offering a small bow, Hirasuke wasn’t done yet.

”But I will state that I don’t agree with Master Senju’s words. It is true that some clans don’t have the same means to protect their subjects as well as others. And while the Uchiha is faithful to her Majesty and this realm, I don’t find it entirely fair what Master Senju states. The Uchiha clan has been dutiful in providing for the Empire as guaranteeing the security of her people. Because one clan failed to do so, I don’t see why the Uchiha should bear more burden.”

The next to respond was Zakito. The leader of the Hon clan slightly frowned as the Senju suggested that clans should provide more. "Providing more resources is certainly noble and could benefit the Empire. However," Zakito paused for a mere second, "just throwing more resources at the Empire won’t make it able to defend itself better. Resources are one thing but manpower will be also required if you desire more protection, Master Senju. And you have to keep in mind that your subjects won’t be that thrilled either if folk from other clans start to arrive. The process isn’t that simple or easy. Neither from a military or economical perspective."
Zakito wondered briefly how many would speak up. For this was a proposition that could harm or benefit certain clans.

"I think your proposition requires more work, Master Senju. For I think that it won’t help as much as you imagine."

"But we could try to pool some resources together," Takeo of the Tamiyo said, waiting a second after Zakito had finished. "If we all pool some resources together and volunteer some troops then who knows? Maybe if it pleases her Majesty, we could try to fund another large military unit?"

Shirori quietly observed the proposition and subsequent oppositions to it, and she found herself agreeing with what the others were saying about it. "I would echo the opinions of the Hon and Uchiha, as admirable as the idea itself is. But I would like to second Lord Tamiyo’s addition, collectively funding another military force would be beneficial to all denizens of the Empire, and could prove to help with relations, perhaps assuaging previous animosity one clan may hold for another to some degree."

Moru shifted uncomfortably in his seat as the Senju spoke of giving yet more to the Empire. While he listened to the other large clans in attendance quickly jump at the idea and the obvious gaining of favor it would curry them, Moru simply sighed.

“Your Majesty, though the proposition from the Senju has merit, it is not always possible for the smallest of clans to contribute manpower, resources, or coin to such endeavors. Perhaps if an alternative way for the smaller clans to contribute could be looked into, it would allow us to do as much as the largest among us while not financially crippling ourselves.” he bowed his head as he relinquished the floor.

Tsuru frowned upon hearing the Senju with their topic. Holding the mug, which contained some warm tea, the Yamanaka took a careful sip to not burn her mouth. Lowering the mug, she waited for the Miyazato emissary to be done.
"I fear that I may be wrong but how is this a new topic? We already provide supplies to the Empire. I am sorry for the loss that the Senju clan suffered but it seems like this is a matter that should have been resolved by their own forces," Tsuru said, her tone polite but the phrasing giving away the slight irritation, "The unrest is being tackled in the Rain? The Imperial military has responded swiftly. To provide just more supplies, I dare say that won’t just solve the issues. As for a new military unit? I don’t see the need for that either. Expanding the military is one thing but what is entirely wrong with the current cohorts and formations that exist already?"

Resu waited patiently as he heard several of the responses that were expressed. None of the voiced ones expressed positivity towards his proposal, which was disappointing, but not entirely unexpected. The Uchiha offered to provide some financial aid, which made Resu turn to Hirasuke first "The offer of financial aid is appreciated, and will be considered.” He said with a nod towards the Uchiha, before looking around the table "Several good notes have been brought up. It was a proposal to help expand the operations, and indeed, resources alone are not enough. And I do not believe my proposal ever required everyone to bring forth the exact same as all others, merely to provide more resources.” Resu briefly glanced towards the Miyazato representative.

"So, with the opinions voiced, I believe it would be sufficient to say that it seems that this proposal certainly needs to be fleshed out and reconsidered if it is even needed. I personally still believe it will be more beneficial to do so, even if it won’t be in only resources, as initially suggested. If anyone would still be interested in coming up with a better idea of how to pursue this proposal of mine, I am certainly open to discussing it further.” Resu finished speaking once more and sat back down.

The young man was truly a bit confused by the topic at hand. Particularly when the motion of forming a new military unit was tossed out. Wasn’t that very similar to the proposal of a coalition that had been shot down before? The Hanta stood, taking a moment to look around the room for a few moments and collect his thoughts. "Perhaps, we as Akinians should be using our clan’s resources to not only protect and help our owns, but those of our neighbors as well. The way I see it, Master Senju has a point. What happened to the Senju is a firm reminder of what could truly happen to any of us." The Hanta said, looking around at the others in the room. ”The Hanta have long believed that there is strength in unity, and so we agree with the proposal, and some of these excellent notes commented on the proposal. After all, we are all akinians here, no? If one of us hurts, so do the rest." He said, giving a long look towards the Senju representative. Deciding that perhaps after the meeting has ended, he should strike up a dialogue with that man. Discuss the proposal a bit further, and perhaps see how amicable he might be to one sitting on the Hanta’s mind.

The small speech that the Hanta leader gave, first received a response from Zakito. "I would like to remind the Hanta that his logic is quite skewed," Zakito said, his tone calm yet a certain threat seemed to linger with the Hon’s phrasing. "You state that this could happen to any of us? So far I see, I highly doubt that. The Sarutobi had to face bigger odds and they responded right away. My kin came to their aid the moment that the threat was there. Not reacting when the smoke was dwindling and the cries of the victims could be heard. The Senju brought this upon themselves."

Not letting his annoyance get to him, Zakito continued. "So your proposal? About Akinians together? I see little use in it. Certainly if one clan’s suffering is acknowledged more than the other. Not to mention," Zakito would proceed with a gesture to those in the room, "you speak of using resources? Very well. Then I gladly await the Hanta to pay more taxations and resources so that her Majesty can be provided to expand the Imperial Akinian military. For the Akinian cause, Akino Victor, right Lord Hanta?"

The following to speak up was Tsuru of the Yamanaka. "If we are all Akinians, needing to use resources to help each other then I wonder why not more have stepped up to help the likes of the Omari. Or as Lord Hon pointed out, when the Sarutobi were actively dealing with a threat."
Frowning slightly, Tsuru waited a mere second before she continued on. "And I have yet to hear answers on my questions, Lord Hanta. What would be achieved with throwing more resources at the problem. Are we going to bribe the enemy with wealth? Wood and linen?"
Not needing an answer, Tsuru leaned back in her seat. "All I hear is that we need to bring up more resources. An easy task for the likes of those who have enough land and people, such as the Senju and Hanta. But not having the willpower to solve their issues without the guidance of others, it seems."

After his attempt at concluding the topic, the Hanta representative decided to speak up and show his support. Poor timing in Resu’s opinion, but the Hanta tried pushing for something else. Which led to some remarks from the Hon and Yamanaka, but ones that even Resu felt were deserved, considering the attempted push at continuing the topic "I believe you have missed the part where I mentioned any interested parties can continue to discuss this proposal at a later point, mister Hanta. The opinions expressed showed well that the proposal needs to be fleshed out and thought on further. The show of support for the idea is nice, but as I have noted thrice by now, any further discussions of this topic should be continued after the meeting. No need to bother those who already expressed their opinions by pushing the topic further.” Resu said, looking at the Hanta, shaking his head at the poor timing of the representative.

The next man to voice himself would be none other than Leo Tokugawa who kept a neutral facial expression about himself as he looked at Resu. "You have my condolences for what has happened to your people. I can offer a bit of resources to help rebuild your farms, yet I have to agree with several of the Lords and Lady that your plan does indeed need to be thought through a bit more. I also recommend not admitting defeat when a few say no. If a few people saying no made all the changes in the world, half of us probably wouldn’t be here. I agree it needs to be fleshed out better, yet do try to stand your ground better. We all struggle, hell look at Master Riojin. Defended Amegakure with hardly any back up until the final event that transpired. Was it costly? One hundred percent, yet the difference between Amegakure and your farms is simple. He fought and defended thousands of lives. You? You ask for more security and us all to chip in when you failed to defend a few farms. Don’t take my words as looking down or spitting on your suggestion. What I suggest is before asking the military to fix your issues, try using your own first." Leo said then looked between the Hyuuga and Hanta Representatives.

Leo rubbed his forehead a bit as he exhaled a bit. "Now a new unit sounds lovely on paper, yet when executing it to be a force that goes to others borders? That’s where it falls down a bit. No one likes a force just waltzing in on their lands and claiming they are there to help. It creates more tension and it certainly doesn’t help improve relations. Mostly when the last force to move onto someone, they shockingly became someone's vassal. I suggest building relations through messages and or visiting each other. Then like Lord Hon did when Sarutobi needed help. Then come to their aid." Leo then sat back in his chair and raised his drink and took a long sip from it.

When he was sure Lord Tokugawa was done, even though he wasn’t sure if he was complimented while he also lectured someone else. Mitsunari would clear his throat. ”I would…. suggest putting your men on more alert. Then if the situation continues, maybe then request the Imperial Military.” Mitsunari said as he looked around the room. ”As for the new force suggestion, it sounds like it has its promises. Although I do recommend maybe having an area for them to be stationed. Then when help is needed they can then act.”

”Is it not the duty of the clans of the Empire to provide defense for our own peoples?” Lady Omari asked at the end of the conversation. ”You speak boldly of the need for us to provide for the common defense of the realm, but where is a Hanta force mustering to assist the Empire in the east?” Crossing her arms the Omari woman shook her head. ”Aside from that, it is folly to ask the smaller clans to give anymore then they already do. The necessary components to form an army cannot be magicked out of thin air. I am all for the protection of the Empire, but I cannot agree with this proposal.”

Calmly sipping his tea, Shikamura Nara kept a keen eye on those present as things appeared to be heating up. The proposal from the Senju had been shot down rather quickly by several representatives, but the rest hadn’t even had a chance to speak before Resu had withdrawn it. With the Hanta now apparently under fire as well, Shikamura pondered something for a moment. Waiting for Lady Omari to finish speaking, he glanced around for a moment before setting down his tea. "As some of the others have already done, the Nara clan extends their deepest sympathies to the Senju clan for that which they have suffered." Taking a moment’s pause, Shikamura nodded politely towards Resu before looking aroud. "We would, however, have to agree that there are some flaws to the proposal that has been made. If it would please the Senju, the Nara clan would be happy to offer their assistance wherever we can. Be it medicine or advice, we would be honoured to discuss outside this meeting how we may support you to regain that which you’ve lost."

With that completed, Shikamura scratched his chin as if contemplating his next words. "As for the suggestion to create a new force… I’m afraid there are more questions than answers when it comes to this." Shrugging, the Nara leaned back in his chair. "If this force acts outside of the Imperial Military, then who do they report to? How are their actions monitored? Who is responsible for funding it?" Waving a hand somewhat dismissively, Shikamura sighed. "I also imagine Lord Tokugawa is rather correct that there will be quite some tension if clans with different beliefs and cultures begin traveling through each other’s lands in force. I’m not saying it’s impossible, but it would be irresponsible for us to put forward such a proposal without considering all of the variables first."

Ferra found herself deeply focused on the meeting as it progressed. The Empress had provided some great news to the Arkos clan in granting them a fiefdom. This was an opportunity for their clan to finally prove themselves and earn more prestige within the Empire. it was an opportunity she did not intend to waste. When talk shifted to the Senju asking for clans to give more, Ferra narrowed her eyes ever so slightly. While she had already lobbied for clans to give more in order to try and earn a better place for themselves, she did not believe in simply providing charity to those who should have been able to look after themselves. Before she could voice her thoughts on the matter, however, the Hanta spoke up and threw things into a fervor. Glancing down at her drink, Ferra tried to gather her thoughts. She could feel her frustration growing as the participants spoke, arguing one way or the other. She had her own beliefs about a separate force, but this suggestion was different from the one she had supported during the previous Taika meeting. Looking up towards the Hanta and then around at the others, Ferra steeled her nerves. "It would appear that the larger issue at hand is that several clans are in need of greater protection. Whether it is due to a lack of preparedness or perhaps a lack of resources or training, the current events have shown that some are more vulnerable than others."

Pausing, the Arkos leader glanced towards Zakito. "I would have to agree with Lord Hon in that resources should not be wasted on simply trying to help out one clan or another. If resources are going to be spent, then it should be towards the betterment of the Empire as a whole. If a clan feels they are not capable of protecting themselves, then that's what friends are for. Just as the Hon assisted the Sarutobi in their time of need, that is how we can help each other. When the Housha were being decimated in Amegakure, many from different clans came in to help assist in repelling the invaders and trying to minimize the damage as much as possible. No amount of money would have made a difference if not for the people who put their lives on the line to help."

Shifting her gaze towards Tsuru, Ferra continued, "Lady Yamanaka is right to question how exactly resources will help clans protect themselves better. If anyone is incapable of protecting their own land, then they need to seek assistance from those around them who can help." Glancing around the room once more, she let a short silence follow as she considered how to phrase her next words. "Not all clans have a martial focus and some may have a significantly harder time defending themselves. If that’s the case, then I don’t see why things couldn’t be arranged between clans to offer training services or perhaps even armed support in exchange for resources. This way the burden does not fall exclusively on the Imperial Military, nor would it fall on the rest of the clans to support those who need a little more help than the others."

When Lady Arkos had finished speaking, Jora took the opportunity to clear his throat slightly. "Well, if the concept of creating a separate force does not make sense at this time, then perhaps we could instead look to find ways of better supporting or bolstering the current military." Scratching his chin, the Hyuzu leader pondered for a moment. "The idea of Lord Tokugawa to create a trading hub of sorts was generally acceptable to most, so perhaps something similar could be created for the military? There are already numerous training facilities, but Lord Riojin had a valid point. Some locations are harder for the military to support as it takes longer to get troops to those areas. If we constructed more barracks or training grounds in those areas, we could have a reserve force readily available for those who need it the most."

Glancing towards the Tamiyo leader, Jora tilted his head slightly. "This would obviously require funding and, as Lord Tamiyo suggested, we could pool some of our resources together if it is deemed a worthwhile venture. The Hyuzu clan would be willing to dedicate some funds and assistance with building these facilities, along with training for some of the troops if required. Our resources are not nearly as vast as that which Lord Tamiyo has at his disposal, but we would be happy to assist where possible." Another thought came to him and he quickly added, "I imagine this option would be more relevant for those who are currently in higher risk areas, or who have shown a greater need. In those cases, I would imagine most clans in those areas would be a little more inspired to help contribute to the efforts, be it in providing funding themselves, or trading in resources with others who might be able to provide funding should they be unable." Sitting back in his chair, Jora waited to see how the others would respond.




There had been one person that had been silent, watching and listening to others. But as the meeting progressed, Ling of the Sarutobi started to become slowly irritated at the matters. When the Hanta spoke up and tried to use the poor excuse that they were all Akinians, thus had to support such an idea, Ling remained silent. For he was certain how such an idea would land with his people and clans. The problem wasn’t just trust but also the history.
Other clans, however, responded and Ling gave a subtle nod towards Lord Hon.
The meeting continued as questions arose if the idea to create an all-out clan force was going to be wise, not to mention resources. Something that made Ling frown slightly, as he found it foolish. It was if the Imperial military wasn’t already a thing.

"If I may speak," Ling said, his voice stern, "the fact is and remains that we are responsible for our people’s protection. It is true that not all clans are capable of fending off a large force, if they may arrive with malicious intent. Neighbours that are allied and willing to bleed for you are not a foreign concept to us. Certainly not to those who have fought together or against each other in the past."
Pausing, Ling wanted to scoff and call out some other stuff. There was a moment that he wanted to condemn all this new planning, out of spite and dislike for some. Knowing fully well that he had a task and Sarutobi lives depended on him, Ling instead continued in Chonobi,
"The Scyldings are willing to provide some training. That is if certain requirements are met. For it has become clear that certain events are being blatantly used to advance agendas, without any true aid to those who have suffered. For that, your Majesty," Ling lowered his head as he addressed the young monarch, "the Sarutobi have been ever faithful to you. We are proud to bleed and fight for you. In your name, we will offer the clans that are too weak some military assistance in form of training. As far I am aware, there are too few who can dare to step up to some of our rangers. But if we are to step out to once more help others, that haven’t cared for our hurts, then I want to request the following,” Ling paused for a second as he didn’t glance to see what the reaction would be of other clans, for the majority wouldn’t likely be able to understand what he was saying anyways, "that the mistreatment in Ardara is set right. While faithful and loyal to your rule, the Scyldings desire to be treated as more than a stepping stone. Than as second-rate citizens. With the permission of the Scylding clans, I was requested to humbly request your permission to see a certain kind of compensation for our deeds in the past.”

Hastily, someone at the head of the formation stood up. "With all respect, your Majesty," Takeo managed to conjure a quick and warm smile, "while I respect the diversity of clans, would you or anyone else be so willing to translate that beautiful piece of monologue? For the non-initiated here," Takeo gestured before he sat down.
"I may understand that Taika isn’t spoken in all parts of the Empire, I am hoping that we can continue to communicate in a way that we all understand. Unless we want to continue this exchange in Yakimara. Then I would be most delighted to show my progress, to you, your Majesty, and our good Yakimara friends."

The man winced slightly as he was hit hard with the responses. Clearly, he still had more ground to learn before he would be able to hold his own. However, rather than backing down from his proposal under fire, the Hanta decided that it might be better to keep going. He nodded along with some of the comments, and the ones aimed at him he figured better to not respond. There was no ground to be gained by firing back and arguing, though when he heard the Hyuzu’s suggestion on the matter, the Hanta felt like an option had been presented that would have better success than his own. ”I find myself in agreement with Lord Hyuzu’s suggestion. To that end, the Hanta would gladly contribute our share to helping with this key expansion.” The man said calmly, knowing that he was accepting a defeat to some degree, though the option presented by the Hyuzu certainly held promise for helping those who might need it. ”Certainly, this proposal also seems like it can help even those smaller clans who may not be able to contribute.” He said, opting not to dignify the Omari’s comment with a response. Given the presence of a Hanta unit currently deployed to the East, he felt it was a bit strange of a comment.
The reaction to Shirori slipping in the idea of a joint force between the clans told a fair amount, mostly concern and exaggerated fears of border friction, criticism of just using more resources and turning the words of one against themselves.

And so, Shirori rose from her seat. "Lord Riojin, Lord Hyuzu, your input on the idea of an additional force is appreciated greatly. Though, I feel if Lord Tokugawa is going to bring that idea up, it is only proper to allow for the full pitch to be made so that it’s not mischaracterized and compared to previous inter-clan issues." Her attention would shift to the Empress.

"This is why I would like to explain this proposal directly to the Empress herself, those of the Taikan clans may already know the overall idea, many of whom spoke it down at a previous meeting on the respectful notion that you are already telling the Empire everything you know, which I do hope is in fact the truth." There would be a quiet pause for a second as Shirori’s gaze swept the room.
"We proposed a joint unit, composed of all clans present, to specifically handle and combat the zealot insurgency that has been creeping into our lands and playing people against one another. There have already been incidents incited by these zealots whom have wormed their way into our circles, admittedly I am not at liberty to say whom exactly, in respect of hoping they will speak freely of their troubles with the aforementioned invaders. We suggested collation of all the knowledge that is currently available on what they do, how they do it and what signifying features we can search for when trying to root them out, any additional information gained from the warfront in the East could be relayed back to us in order to further improve our methods. And then forming a collective force from members of our own clans, properly vetted to ensure there are none who share sympathies with the zealots, and co-ordinate ourselves in order to accurately, safely and quickly handle any issues related to the zealots that plague us.”
“The secondary goal of this force, would be to understand one another’s cultures and foster better collaboration and relations between clans, and a better understanding of our linguistic differences to avoid miscommunication in a case where translation is needed.”
Shirori would pause again to sip her drink, mentally thanking Lord Tamiyo for the initial call out of the Sarutobi Lord’s shift in tongues.

[/color=red]”Because communication and deployment of forces at long distances would be difficult, bases within or near our respective capitals to train and supply our forces as has been suggested here today. These bases would be managed by either the head of the clan or a general selected by them in each of our lands, so that we have Tokugawans handling Tokugawan zealot activity, so on and so forth to maintain a form of independence and only supplementing the forces of those who cannot muster such a unit if absolutely necessary. The intent is for this force to ultimately answer to the Empress herself, as there’s no higher authority in all of the Empire, that way her judgement is delivered properly to those who wish ill will against any citizen within our lands. Of course, input from everyone present would be more than welcome."[/color]
It remained silent for a moment, as the words of the Hyuuga dignitary echoed through the spacious hall. However, it wouldn’t stay quiet.
"Master Sarutobi, requested that his people would be compensated for the dreadful events they were forced to endure, Lord Tamiyo," Zakito said, doubting that there would be many present who were going to oppose that.
"They further offer to train those who are in need for martial prowess, seeing that Scylding rangers are nearly unmatched."

Done translating, Zakito rose up slowly as he slightly nodded towards the Hyuuga representative. "Bonding through serving together. I can vouch that is indeed something that happens. For I know out of firsthand experience what it is like." Zakito shifted his gaze to Hirasuke Uchiha, "I didn’t trust or like the Second Hokage. Lord Second was an Uchiha. He was in my opinion a direct threat to all that I held dear. To all beliefs that I grew up with. But as I served underneath his command, I learned to respect him for the man that he was. To love him for the leader that he was. If I was given the chance now? I would gladly sacrifice my own life to ensure that he could continue on to guide us for a while longer."

Zakito then shifted his gaze at Kiyomi as he made a subtle bow with his head. "Same ironically goes for the Lord Fourth, your Majesty. While he was a tutor to you, he was one that I could call my brother. We didn’t go along, at first. We clashed and disagreed, almost for the sake of just disagreeing with another. But through hardship, bloodshed and the horrible crucible of war? We had each other’s back. I venture alone to the dark pits of Hella for him."
Placing his hands at his back, Zakito let his sight wander over those present.
"And it is true. These two examples are just two out of countless similar experiences as bonds. It allowed me to learn, to understand and respect other clans and their cultures. Their habits and beliefs. To know that there isn’t anything wrong with diversity. However," Zakito’s tone gained a sharper tone. One that seemed less positive.
"I oppose this notion of a newly formed organisation. I understand its noble goals and what it tries to achieve. But I have yet to hear an answer to the questions that were asked before." He paused, holding the attention tight.

"First, the idea to have a military unit soley obey the crown is a bad idea. I am unsure how many of you all served but such a command structure is doomed to fail. A situation in the field often requires a swift response. While her Majesty is far from a novice in the art of warfare, she is still being groomed by competent experts. By the time that a request comes at her doorstep, the situation will have changed drastically. The enemy will have a constant advantage while this new force is lingering five commands behind. Furthermore," Zakito continued, taking a second to calmly get some a breather, "I recognise that it is an advantage that the costs will be carried by the clans. But how will it be decided that one clan has paid enough? And what if a clan prefers their own method? I foresee that traditional forces that have operated for centuries will collide repeatedly with such a new organisation."
Frowning, Zakito kept his gaze wandering over those present.
"The idea to also further establish extra camps and stations to garrison, train and equip those who serve in this new organisation will become costly. Not to mention, why even investing in such an endeavour? Aye, it is true that the Zealots have managed to infiltrate and cause damage from within as without. It has appeared several times that they outsmarted the Imperial military. But there are many more operations where the zealots were foiled because of the competent operatives and personnel in the Imperial military. The Imperial Military that we all are already supposed to support. The Imperial military that has already training camps and garrisons, coordinating and operating alongside local clans and people. It may have gone unnoticed by many but without the flexibility and competence of the Imperial military, we would have a much more dire situation at hand."
Inhaling softly, Zakito let his words echo through the hall. He then gestured slowly towards the direction of the Empress.
"The Imperial military does all that is being suggested that this new force should achieve. They are loyal and diligent to serve her Majesty. They are comprised of all the clans that provide willing men and women, that are being trained to the best of knowledge. And during their services, a soldier or shinobi of the Imperial military won’t just see the confines of their own clan’s heartlands. They will learn to work together as one unit," Zakito leaned forward slightly, placing a hand firmly on the table - the motion creating a harsh sound, to emphasise his points that also followed.
"They fight as one. They eat as one. And much like I have done with the Lord Second or Lord Fourth? They will be ready to die as one. Through that bond? You will cultivate the very same without creating another entity that is similar. If you lords, ladies and masters desire to see such matters to be done? Then I firmly implore that you direct support to the already existing Imperial military. Not to create a mere reflection, with just pooling from the clans."
Done with his response, Zakito would sit down.

Although Resu had been reluctant to speak up since numerous people around the table have ‘given their advice and suggestions’ to the Senju, the rise of a topic he had heard of before caught his attention. That joint unit that Osafumi had told him about. Once more, it was the Hyuuga that suggested it, and quickly after it was suggested, Lord Hon spoke against it in a very detailed and well-reasoned way as to why it would be redundant. Resu stood up before beginning to speak as well ”I agree with Lord Hon regarding the topic of the joint unit. I may have suggested collecting more resources for the imperial army myself, but to create a whole new unit, or army, such as that? That is a whole level much higher than need be at all. And as ironic as it may sound, but I will have to mirror what several others have mentioned before regarding my own suggestion. You say that the force in each area will be under the eyes of whoever owns the land. Why not just use the existing forces? And as an empire, we already share information of what occurs, of sightings and other occurrences.”

”I cannot speak about the bonds that are formed in military service as Lord Hon have, but I can speak as someone who observed them from the side. They are, without a doubt, significant and strong. I have known several brothers in arms that have told me they will die for one another. That is how strong their bond is. But the same bond can likely be formed in the existing army. And not just that, the Imperial army is already allowing members of different cultures to bond. Yakimara, Chonobi and Taika are all used, and this in turn allows our troops, that come from different backgrounds, to find a common ground in the Imperial army. That should already be seen as a path growing a bond between members of the clans, not a new unit.”
Resu said, hoping that he was accurate enough regarding this.

He looked around the table for a moment, understanding well how well he must be appearing as right now, before continuing ”It is also, from what I know, the exact same proposal as was suggested in the meeting you have mentioned, and even back then, it was rejected, when all the members were of the same culture. Without any change to your suggestion at all, I cannot see any benefit at all to the creation of this joint unit, as you propose. It would be wiser to focus on the existing army than try to form a new one, for which there is no good reason I can think of at present time.”

Hirasuke watched and listened as the topic started to steer away from the initial suggestion of the Senju. There were some thoughts and questions that moved through Uchiha's mind. Sadly, there was no way yet for him to gain definite answers without playing the fickle game of politics along with the other clan leaders and representatives.
Frowning as the Senju decided to side with the Hon, Hirasuke couldn’t really say that he was pleased with such an outcome. Aside from Hirasuke disappointment to see such a person from a prestigious Taika heritage side with a mere Hon, Hirasuke had another reason to dislike the current development.
”It may be indeed that this proposed unit lacks the foundation and cohesion that we can find in the Imperial military. But I do think that we are underestimating its potential,” Hirasuke began, a smile crossing his lips, ”I may not have an esteemed military career as some here enjoy. No offense, Lord Hon, but I think that the point of this unit may also be to promote cooperation. Whereas the Imperial military already does so, we could place the emphasis larger with this proposed unit. In fact, I foresee that we could have our kin become more acquainted with both a military career as learning how to cooperate with other clans as cultures.”

Enlisting a pause, Hirasuke trained his sight on the Empress. Slowly and respectfully, Hirasuke bowed his head.
”Your Majesty, I humbly request you to take this proposal into consideration. For have you not also deemed it necessary to organise a new military unit? I believe their names are the Guardians. And if I am not mistaken, they are formally not even part of the Imperial military but are underneath your direct control. You could perhaps see this as a mere extension and branches of Guardians, but then managed by your loyal and noble subjects.”

”I believe additionally we are pouncing on the proposal so fresh of the heels of the last one that we have failed to ask a crucial question. What is the proposed size of this new unit? Small enough and it may have no effect on existing logistics. It would be a shame to see it dismissed off handedly without further thought.” Drumming her fingers along the table, the Omari representative spoke further. ”There is some merit in purposefully trained forces used in counter insurgent methods. They may even have a broader use if prepared properly.”

Right as Lady Omari finished, another lady within the hall spoke up. Tsuru of the Yamanaka crossed her arms. "I do believe that regardless of the size, that we already have various military units within the Imperial military that can combat hostile operatives or other threats. Both in a conventional as unorthodox fashion."
Finishing her sentence, Tsuru shot a glance at the Uchiha dignitary.
"Master Uchiha, you speak of the fact that her Majesty created the Guardians. And this is aimed to reflect it? The fact is that these Guardians have been established in a center point where her Majesty has fast control or contact with them. You may also misjudge their purpose. They are to protect the Empress and her, hopefully, future family. Not to just prounce around to do the bidding of a local clan lord or lordling," Tsuru’s tone became even sharper as she slightly raised her chin.

"While this new unit may sound good and beneficial, I only predict chaos and disturbance. Some of you declared and agreed that not every clan has the martial expertise to deal with the likes of the Zealots. And now you want to allow them to manage a unit that they have no experience with? It is the equivalent of giving a toddler a spear, hoping it won’t hurt itself or those around him."
Restraining the need to scoff and say something in Yakimara, Tsuru would shake her head just instead.
"Even now, some of you are fickling back and forth. How is this unit supposed to work better than what we already have at our disposal when some of you can’t make up a clear mind now? Let alone not able to manage your coffers or clan forces."
Turning to the Empress, Tsuru would flash a wry smile.
"Forgive me. But rather than spending resources on a project that is doomed to fail miserably, your Majesty, I would like to offer both supplies and manpower to the Royal Navy. It has come to my attention that some loyal subordinates of the realm have managed to acquire some nice vessels from the North.”

Patiently, Kiyomi waited and listened. Enjoying her beverage, she would take in what was being said. The new topic had sparked some curiosity but she wasn’t convinced right away. There were certain issues and matters that made Kiyomi waver about giving her blessing to this new sort of force. Not to mention that other prominent and present people started to object.
"Interesting turn of events," Kiyomi stated as she leaned back in her seat. Her attention shifted to the dignitary of the Senju clan. "I will approve that you or any of your kin can bring the matter once you feel that you’ve fleshed it out, Master Senju."
Of course, there rested the case with the Sarutobi. For a moment, Kiyomi considered responding in kind - using the Chonobi language. But she opted to react as if the Sarutobi dignitary had used Taika.
"Of course, Master Sarutobi. I will lend some of my Sworn Swords to oversee that any important Sarutobi artifacts will be removed from Keishi and returned to their proper place. Furthermore, I will see to it that the Sarutobi clans shall receive a proper reward for their loyalty and services."

Turning her attention to the others, Kiyomi folded her hands together. A silence echoed for a few seconds as she considered what would be wise. But if anything, Kiyomi would have loved to see more try to stand up or against this new topic. Aside from those that were quick to subdue to the words of others.
"I start to gain the impression that this wasn’t the work of a sole clan or mind," Kiyomi glanced at the Hanta heir, her eyebrows slightly perking up, "though I find it rather unorthodox to use the topic of Master Senju to drive one’s agenda to the table. Anyhow, I do agree that this new force seems a bit," Kiyomi halted as she made a vague gesture, "redundant, if anything. The Imperial military already provides what you are suggesting for this new force, Master Hyuuga."

Lowering her hand, Kiyomi wondered briefly how many of them had been against this or supporting this motion. A clear detail regarding the meeting between the Taika clans had been rather obscure and vague.
"However, I can respect those who are willing to stand by their point. Master Hyuuga, you shall be allowed to form this new unit. Those who agreed to this before shall pay for it, one way or another. Both during and before this meeting," Kiyomi stated, her tone growing a tad more stern, "this force shall be underneath the command of the Hyuuga clan and operate in the heartlands of clans that agreed to it before and during this meeting. Nowhere else."
Letting her words sink in, Kiyomi continued.
"I expect results Master Hyuuga. For if there are none, this force will be absorbed into the Imperial military, into existing units than to remain an independent force outside of it. If by some reason it will bear pleasant results that convince me to keep it alive? Then I will see to it that the crown shall share a burden of paying for it and perhaps discussing for future alterations, that benefit the realm as a whole."

With the meeting coming to an end, the dignitaries would be guided to their lodges. There they would be served by the Uchiha, allowing the dignitaries to rest out until they would be guided back to the next event, to the collective hall. Only this time seemingly more fitting for a time of lounging and celebrating together - or preparing backdoor deals and more intimate diplomatic exchanges.
 
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Team Hiron Training
With Masami Hyuuga as an addition to the team, Kyoi would have her abilities tested prior to a mission.
@RedFox @ChromeHound

Just breathe, Masami. Just breathe. It'll be alright.

Despite the cold air, she felt as if she was sweating. As she did her stretches, she was wondering how will he react. Her muscles responded accurately as usual, but there was a funny feeling with every single move. She scolded herself for having thoughts like when there was a war raging around them. On the other hand, these thoughts were the thing that helped her the most to make it through.And you, of course she thought with a blush. She went on with her stretches for a few more minutes, and her anxiety was starting to get the better out of her. She was very tempted to just activate her Byakugan and start looking around to find him. The thought flashed through her mind and she stopped her warm up and straightened up. She took a deep breath to calm herself down.Get a grip, Masami. You're a Guardian, now act like one.

Since she got the assignment a day ago, she really did not have much in terms of peace of mind. This exercise with her former team was a perfect opportunity to get acquainted with her old friends to be of aid for their scouting mission. Despite having one or two of them under her belt already, underestimating their importance or the need to prepare for them was a sure way to the grave. One she did not want to take this early. The fact that they were gaining ground at this rate was a positive piece of news, but that put even more strain on the scouts since more ground was desperately lacking of any useful intel about enemy movements and numbers. And she, as a proud Guardian, will do her best. And she won't disappoint. A few more minutes of stretches should do it before the rest of the team for the mission arrives.

For a few minutes prior to proper arrival at the grounds, Kyoi patiently watched Masami as she warmed up and stretched, remaining hidden until it seemed that she was done. This was mostly to see whether she had gotten cold feet, and partially just due to Kyoi being curious about her, while they were both Hyuuga, she didn’t know an awful lot about the girl herself.

After those few minutes had passed, Kyoi would quietly vacate her hiding spot and saunter up to Masami. ”Looking forward to our little exercise? The only other one showing up today, barring myself, is Shikaroku Nara, to which I believe you two are already acquainted, yes?” There was a wry smile on Kyoi’s face as she pitched her question.

He was nervous. Nervous because it had been so long. Nervous because he didn’t know how he should react or even how he would react. Nervous because so many things had changed since he’d last seen her...

Nervous with how she might react…

Letting out another exasperated sigh, Shikaroku kept his eyes trained on the ground as he walked. Things hadn’t been this troublesome when it was just Hiron and him… He hadn’t had to worry about anything else or anyone else. But now… Kicking a rock in frustration, the Nara looked up, realizing he was nearly at the field. Remember, it is just training. he told himself, trying to focus on that fact. Reaching with one hand into his pocket, Shikaroku felt the familiar shape of his lighter and clasped it, trying to steady his nerves.

He’d been in life or death situations far more often than he’d have liked but this terrified Shikaroku in a different way than any of them ever had. Glancing ahead, he could see the two figures and his eyes locked on Masami. Stopping, the Nara clenched his fists and steadied his breath. It’s just training. Forcing himself to keep moving, Shikaroku pulled his hand out of his pocket and waved halfheartedly to the two Hyuuga that were already in the field. When he reached them, Shikaroku looked from Kyoi to Masami, forcing himself to keep a neutral expression. "Sorry if I kept you waiting."

Just as she was done with her stretches, she heard someone approaching from behind. Turning to the newcomer, it took only a second to figure out she's Kyoi Hyuuga. She looked her up and a smile spread on her lips. Kyoi was giving off something positive, something she could not immediately discern. Just as she introduced herself and announced the late arrival, Masami had her hands stretched out over her head. When asked about Shikaroku, she let out a weird noise - something between a nervous laughter, a satisfied hum and a worried sigh. Placing her hands on her hips, she returned a smile of her own."Y-yes, I can't - I mean, yes, I am. Exercise is the best preparation for any mission. Masami - I am Masami Hyuuga. You must be Kyoi - I am pleased to meet you." That was all she could reply before her face turned bright red at the mention of his name.
" Y-y-yes we - we happen to know each other a little - I mean we know each other more than a little bit, but not as much as I - yes, we are acquainted, yes."

Her face was brighter than tomatoes, and she felt incredibly hot. Giving Kyoi and awkward smile. Than she heard that voice. Her heart skipped a beat. And the next one too. Maybe a few more beats. She slowly turned and he was standing there. She stood frozen, her heart now stopped beating."It's you … is that really you, Shika?" She spoke, without realizing that she was speaking out loudly. She felt tears welling up in her eyes, but she could not fight them. Her heart was now racing, and without waiting for any response, she did the only thing that felt right. She almost ran up to him and hugged him tightly.

Kyoi refrained from grinning at the response Masami gave her, doubly so as the tension in the air rose upon Shikaroku’s arrival, if anyone had to remain mostly professional in this situation it had to be her. So for the brief moment she let the current sequence of events play out without interference, evidently the two hadn’t seen one another recently.

Young love, eh? Normally arrangements like this aren’t so… Genuine, all the better. She thought idly.

Of course that moment was over rather quickly, meaning Kyoi had to at the least draw their attention away from one another. ”Do you two love-birds need a moment to catch up? You still have the big day to look forward to. Of course, if you can’t wait then I’ll make myself scarce for a couple of minutes.” She would interject, letting a small grin show for the time being. Her attitude was likely a far-cry from how Hiron would treat such a situation but she was allowed to have a little fun with this, they were still more or less kids anyway, at least in her eyes.

When she had asked if it was really him, Shikaroku opened his mouth to respond, but he wasn’t in time as Masami ran forward and embraced him. For a long moment, the Nara remained frozen, arms at his side and uncertain how to react. There were a million thoughts running through his mind: this was unprofessional, what would Kyoi think, was this actually happening…? One thought, however, drove the others out.

This feels right.

Slowly, Shikaroku would reach up with his own arms to return the hug. Finding comfort in Masami’s warmth, he closed his eyes for a moment. When Kyoi spoke, it brought him out of the moment and Shikaroku quickly pulled away. Taking a step backwards, the Nara looked at the ground before glancing back up and offering a slight smile towards Masami. Turning towards Kyoi, he shook his head, adopting a serious tone. "No. We can continue with our training."

Masami could stay like this forever. The feeling was indescribable. And when she felt his hands hugging her back, the entire world seemed to disappear with its wars and problems. There was just the two of them finally together again. She wanted to stay like this but just as Shika's hand let go of her, Kyoi's voice reached her mind as well. Taking a step back, she straightened up and wiped her face into her sleeve and as she looked up, she returned him his smile. Then she turned to Kyoi with a serious expression on her face as well."N-no. Please forgive me. I - I am ready to proceed." In a sense of way, somehow she felt more ready than ever. As if that brief, honest hug gave her something she was missing for a long time. And it filled her with incredible determination.

”Good, then we’ll start with something simple enough. Surely the two of you know your own weaknesses and faults when it comes to combat, so I want both of you to spar and while doing so, observe your opponents weaknesses and make a mental note of them. Then we’ll compare and see if you’re right about your findings and beliefs, I’ll observe too and see if I can notice any other faults. Then we’ll work on seeing what can be done to cover for said weaknesses.”

”Of course, any non-combat failings can be voiced and worked on, but all things considered combat will be prioritised.”


"Understood." Shikaroku said once Kyoi had given her instructions. It would be a little weird sparring against Masami, especially after they had just reunited. Training was training, however, and Shikaroku would not have the luxury of allowing his feelings to get in the way in a real battle scenario.

Taking a few steps back, the Nara glanced between Kyoi and Masami before getting into a ready stance. It had been a long time since he’d had to spar with Masami. If memory served, her skill with close quarters combat significantly outmatched his own. That was a common trait of the Hyuuga after all. A thought came to him and Shikaroku glanced back at Kyoi, "Is this purely a taijutsu spar, or are we allowed to use techniques as well?" He asked, before turning back to Masami. Forming the Seal of Confrontation, he would wait for Kyoi’s response.

"Ninjutsu is permitted, try to avoid any serious injuries. While you cannot afford such a mercy from our enemies, I can't go and hospitalise you just before a mission."

Somewhat expecting a spar to take place, she had to focus hard to push out the reluctance to do so against Shikaroku. She somewhat hoped that he experienced the same. Taking a few steps back as well, she decided to remain silent as she listened to the conditions of the spar. Ninjutsu and Taijutsu were both allowed, but within reason. That worked just fine with her. She gave Kyoi an acknowledging look. Forming the Seal of Confrontation, she closed her eyes as the veins around it started to bulge out as she activated her Byakugan. Opening them wide, she gave Shika a determined look. She dropped in her knees slightly. She extended her left hand and turned her palm towards Shikaroku, and she bent her right hand in her elbow and did the same with her palm. Her eyes narrowed down, she thought back. Shikaroku was a fairly balanced combatant, with solid close and long range skills. Knowing he was from the Nara clan, she had to be extremely cautious about being in close quarters combat with him, as it could mean a swift end of their spar. She stood at the ready, prepared to move at a split seconds notice.

Nodding once Kyoi explained they could use ninjutsu as well, Shikaroku watched as Masami activated her Byakugan. It wasn’t an ideal time for him to be able to use his shadow techniques, not with the sun pretty much directly above them. He did know, however, that if Masami got too close, he’d have a better chance of catching her with his techniques. Unfortunately, Masami would also know that, so it was unlikely she’d give him a lot of opportunity.

Letting out a slight sigh, he pondered a strategy very briefly. Releasing the Seal of Confrontation, Shikaroku surveyed the field as he took another step back. There were a few trees around, but they were not near enough that he’d be able to use them easily to extend his shadow. Reaching back slowly, he withdrew a single kunai from his pouch and then sent it flying towards Masami.

The second Shikaroku threw his kunai, Masami darted towards it for a split second. Using this time, she checked the position of the sun in the sky and changed her direction so that the sun would shine from behind her. She reached for her own pouch and took out three shuriken. She hurled the first at him and changed the direction she would approach him by ninety degrees and hurled another shuriken from this new angle. Abruptly changing her direction again, she hurled the last shuriken and darted towards Shikaroku as fast as she could, starting to mould some of her chakra. Just as she did that, she leaped up in the air to approach Shikaroku from up above.

Dodging the first shuriken by shifting slightly in his stance, Shikaroku was forced to adapt quickly as Masami moved. When the other two shuriken came towards him, Shikaroku somersaulted backwards, sliding slightly before he regained his footing. Masami had positioned herself so that the sun was at her back, giving Shikaroku a distinct advantage. The move confused the Nara at first, as it was an intentional choice. Forming a single handseal, Shikaroku’s shadow began to extend. When Masami leapt into the air, her shadow grew even closer to his own. Now all that was left was finding out whether or not she’d land her blow before his technique would connect.

Now or never, she thought to herself. Using the chakra she moulded earlier, she started to focus it into several points around her and small vertices of water started to form around her. There was nothing she could do to avoid their shadows meeting now as it was too late to change her trajectory. Instead she focused on the vertices until they were ready. Then she used her Water Senbon technique in a weaker, harmless form that could sting upon impact at most, trading strength for coverage of a larger area with Shikaroku in its middle. Just as they shadows were about to meet, she launched the tiny water needles towards him as she continued her approach.

Shit. Shikaroku cursed inwardly as he noticed the water forming around Masami. He wouldn’t have enough time to shift his technique into a protective one and thus he only had two options. He could stand his ground against Masami’s attack and likely capture her with his shadow, but he would have to absorb her attack first and that could take him out of the fight. Or…

Diving to the left, Shikaroku rolled to his feet quickly, feeling the sting as several of the senbon still struck him. Cursing again, the Nara pushed himself back further trying to increase the distance between Masami and him. In the process, he pulled out another kunai, this one with an explosive tag attached and threw it at the ground between them. Setting off the tag, Shikaroku began weaving handseals and moulding his chakra.

Mentally letting out a sigh of relief about seeing the approaching shadow pull slightly away. She landed and dropped on her knees just as Shikaroku was finishing his roll and backing away again. She saw him hurling another kunai against her, this one with an explosive tag attached to it. Realizing now that their spar was far more serious than she thought. Narrowing her eyes on the young Nara. She had to move quickly lest be captured by the jutsu that was being prepared against her. Scrambling from her spot, Masami made a note on the tag being set off on the kunai.

She started to mould some of her chakra as well, in preparation for her next moves. She adopted a circular, step like pattern as she tried to reduce the distance, starting to weave hand seals of her own.

Finishing the final seal, Shikaroku concentrated on where Masami was moving. A slight wind appeared to pick up heading towards the Hyuuga, sending leaves flying up into the air around her. The leaves whipped around in a slight cyclone centered on Masami. Shikaroku hoped it would obscure her vision long enough for him to launch his next attack.

Continuing to move, he withdrew three shuriken and sent them flying towards Masami.

The Hyuuga saw the leaves swirling around her, but at first she continued to move. She just saw the leaves, finding their movements odd but deciding to focus on getting closer to her target. Her chakra was almost moulded and keeping her eyes to avoid the shadow of Shikaroku, she changed directions again in an attempt to keep her movement pattern hard to predict. That's when she noticed that the whirlwind was most likely impairing his vision while hers is still solid, she reached for her pouch with both hands and took two shuriken with each one, quickly hurling them at Shikaroku. To her horror, his betrothed remained still as the shuriken hit their mark square in his chest.

Masami stopped in her tracks and let out an heart shattering scream at the sight, at the result of her actions. Tears filled her eyes as she bit down on her lips hard enough to draw blood - and she was welcomed back to reality by the sight of Shikaroku making his next move and three shuriken headed her way. Her instinct told her to duck and she did so, one clipping her shoulder lightly, making her grit her teeth from the sudden unpleasant experience. Her teary eyes narrowed on Shikaroku as the tools whirled above her. She let out a growl of frustration, stemming from the effects of the apparent Genjutsu and immediately started to mold more of her chakra as she resumed her approach, trying to make random zigzag patterns.

Cursing inwardly as it appeared his technique was too effective, Shikaroku continued to push backwards. He had hoped that Masami would be under the effects for longer, allowing him enough time to maneuver into position and use his shadow technique to hold her. Unfortunately, however, things had not worked out so well.

He still had his backup plan in place, however, and weaved more handseals as he shifted backwards, trying to stay out of Masami’s range.

Upon gathering the sufficient amount of chakra, Masami quickly formed the necessary hand seals and placed one of her hands in front of her mouth. She transformed her chakra into water and spit it out using her Water Trumpet technique. Masami hoped it would both deny Shika a firm foothold, and at the same time obscure his vision. Moulding some more of her chakra, she formed another quick series of seals as a preparation for her next move.

Finishing his handseals, Shikaroku kept his eyes locked on Masami as shadows began to pool around him like a dark fog. The shadows continued to grow, but Shikaroku needed to remain in position for a short period. Narrowing his eyes as he recognized that he was not going to have time to move, the Nara cursed inwardly. The water crashed over him, pushing him backwards. The fog of shadows followed behind him, filling the area. Letting the water carry him back, Shikaroku rolled to his feet, sliding several meters. Masami’s attack had pushed him back even closer to the treeline. Regaining his proper footing, Shikaroku stood amongst the shadows, trying to get eyes on Masami.

She had not entered the fog yet, otherwise he’d be aware of her position. For now, however, he would wait and prepare. Masami’s Byakugan would be able to locate his chakra outline throughout the fog, but Shikaroku hoped it would at least disrupt her vision slightly. Pulling out a kunai with a tag attached, the Nara waited for his next move.

While she still had a visual on Shikaroku, who was denied from firm footing for a few more seconds, something was odd about it. It appeared as if his chakra was floating around him, or more precisely swirling. One thing was sure, he was preparing a move - and Masami didn't have a clue about what it might be. Then she realised that it was not limited to just him, but to an area close to him. It's as if the air was filled with his chakra. Narrowing her eyes and gritting her teeth, she reformulated her strategy.

While still approaching Shikaroku, she reached for her pouch and took out two more shuriken with each one and hurled that at his feet, each one a bit higher than the previous in an effort to further push him back.

When the shuriken entered the fog, Shikaroku was alerted by the technique. They were moving too fast for him to be able to pinpoint their location exactly, but the Nara knew they were coming towards him. Leaping to the side, Shikaroku threw the kunai in his hand forward, aiming for a spot roughly 15 feet ahead of himself. He heard the first shuriken land where he had just been standing and was forced to dodge to the side again as the second shuriken came towards him.

Using the momentum, he withdrew two more kunai with tags on them, throwing these two roughly the same distance away from his left and right sides. Paying close attention for any further movements into the fog, Shikaroku waited. Masami had not moved in yet and he didn’t have a visual on her. Once she entered the fog he would know, but the Hyuuga could move quickly and he wouldn’t have much time to react.

Masami was still unable to pinpoint down the exact location of where Shika was in the fog that was surrounding him, despite her Byakugan focused on the area. All she could see were only glimpses of what was happening in front of her, then she could clearly make out something heading her way. Then she detected two more objects and she prepared to dodge them using a somersault. Then she realised that the kunai were not heading towards her, but rather towards the edges of the fog, as if creating a perimeter of some sorts.

Deciding to try and take the fight up close and personal, she waved a quick succession of seals and created two clones of herself to the left of her and all three of them leaped up as high as she could, their aim somewhere amidst the middle of the fog where she discerned that Shikaroku was waiting.

Remaining motionless, Shikaroku waited. The Nara listened for sounds of movement, hoping to catch any trace of where Masami might be moving. He was at a distinct disadvantage as long as she remained outside of the fog, but Shikaroku knew she’d have to come close at some point.

As if on cue, he was alerted to motion at the edges of the fog. He could detect a single figure closing in, coming from above. Narrowing his eyes, Shikaroku waited for a moment longer before closing his eyes and forming the seal to trigger the flash tags he’d attached to the three kunai.

Blinding light would shoot out from all three directions at once, immediately causing the fog to vanish. Shikaroku had timed it so that the tags would set off after Masami had passed the perimeter, hoping to catch the area at her back.

Opening his eyes, Shikaroku leapt back and formed the seal for his shadow technique. Had his plan worked, the flash would have extended Masami’s shadow towards him, making it momentarily easier to capture her. If he misjudged it, however, he was in for a world of hurt...

Sending out his shadow to connect, Shikaroku uttered a silent prayer.

The second she crossed the perimeter of the fog her world got illuminated, literally. Judging from the blinding light from all directions and the swiftness with which events took place. Masami judged that the fog is serving more than just as a means to hide Shikaroku - it seemed that it somehow granted him sensory abilities as well. She had no other explanation for that. As her vision returned,she landed on her feet and crouched, and just as it happened she saw a shadow creeping towards her and before she could react, the two shadows connected. At that moment she knew she had to act quickly, or else she'll be at a grave disadvantage. Her vision was slowly coming back and she could discern the direction from which the shadow was approaching, and her eyes locked her target once again, albeit not as sharply as she wanted to.

Not wasting any effort in trying to move as her body was already adapting to the position he was in, she instead focused on moulding some of her chakra as quickly as she could into water vertices, narrowing her eyes and gritting her teeth.

When the shadow connected, Shikaroku wanted to let out a sigh of relief. Instead, however, it appeared he wouldn’t have as much time to relax as he’d hoped. Judging from the expression on Masami’s face, it appeared as if she was going to try something. Taking a few steps back, Shikaroku weaved several handseals, watching as Masami’s movements matched his own. As he finished the seals, his shadow began expanding up slowly up his legs.

Masami felt herself moving forward as she concentrated on her chakra. She was a bit thrown off balance at the unfamiliar experience of moving unwillingly, so it took her a bit longer to mould the necessary chakra. Seeing how Shika's shadow was slowly raising up, she took aim and a second later, she launched another volley of her senbons aimed higher as an attempt to disrupt his focus.

As she did so and was waving hand seals as well, she gritted her teeth and poured all of her strength into her muscles in an attempt to break free from the technique that was binding her, prepared to pounce at the opportunity.

Cursing as he realized his shadow shield would not cover him in time, Shikaroku instead chose to leap to the left, hoping to avoid the worst of the damage. Covering his face, the Nara felt several of the senbons pierce his arm and shoulder. Grimacing, Shikaroku slid several feet, his shadow shield expanding up his chest.

As he came to a stop, the Nara felt Masami struggling against his shadow imitation technique. Narrowing his eyes, Shikaroku focused his chakra. The shadow shield would stop moving up his body as he focused instead on keeping Masami held. She was making her best effort to escape the technique, but with Shikaroku’s renewed focus, the technique would hold. He took another few steps back, giving himself some more room in case Masami tried to launch more senbon at him.

Masami was stopped as she hit an invisible wall of jelly in front of her, and it took her a second to recover from the experience. Cursing mentally, she tried to remain as calm as she possibly could in the given situation. She was clearly not strong enough to break through the Shadow that was binding her. She then started to advance once again away from Shika, which gave her another idea.

She quickly gathered some chakra into her palms and was preparing to launch a long ranged technique of hers. She focused, narrowing her eyes, wanting to catch the right moment to make her move.

When Masami stopped struggling, Shikaroku used the opportunity to bring his shadow shield fully up. Reaching back with one hand, the Nara pulled out a kunai from his pouch, looking down at it for a moment before glancing back towards Masami. Taking aim, Shikaroku sent the kunai flying towards its target.

With a thud, the kunai embedded itself in the ground just a few feet in front of Masami. Turning towards the space that Kyoi had been watching from, Shikaroku called out. "I think we should end it there." He felt embarrassed and could not meet Masami’s gaze, so instead, Shikaroku would await Kyoi’s response.

As she was moving away from Shika, she felt her arms move, mirroring his movements. When she saw that he was holding a kunai, while her hands were empty she was prepared to launch her Vacuum Palm. Her arm swung in a throwing motion and she was satisfied with her aim. Then she noticed the trajectory of the kunai and a small smile spread on her lips.

As her hand moved, she reached a point where her Vacuum Palm would be a guaranteed hit, but nothing happened. Blinking for a second, the smile stayed on her lips as the kunai burrowed into the ground, short of her by a few feet. Upon hearing Shika’s word, she wanted to turn to Kyoi as well, realizing she could not. She chuckled a bit, then spoke up as well, with a slight blush."I concur. Could - could you release me now, please? "

The ensuing duel between the two proved entertaining at the least, they took it as seriously as they could all things considered and better yet, no major injuries. Upon the suggestion to finish the bout, Kyoi’s lips curled into a small smirk.

”I didn’t hear anyone concede, but very well, I hope you didn’t forget to make observations. I’ll give you each two minutes to put together what you saw within one another and lick any wounds you have. Do it at opposite ends of the field, understandably you can’t collaborate on this.”


 
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[ Kanazawa, Uchiha Heartlands - Empire of Akino ]
[ Imperial Gathering ]
[ A collab between @Nim and @Gerontis | Takeo of the Tamiyo Dynasty approaches the dignitary of the Senju Clan, Resu. The two engage into a brief conversation about what they think of the diversity of cultures. Only to then speak of possible cooperation and what seems to be the Tamiyo willing to aid the Senju's ambition to become a Great Clan again. ]




Enjoying the evening, Takeo took a sip of his beverage. All and all, the meeting had faired in the way that his agenda was advanced. Not all had gone according to plan but there hadn’t been any development that soured the Tamiyo’s leader mood.
Spotting various important dignitaries, he was well aware that this evening the political scheming and plotting hadn’t come to a halt yet. In fact, this was the prime time to forge or undermine alliances. Without the pesky interferences of others. But it was also a time to just take things at a slightly slower and calmer pace. Something that Takeo could certainly enjoy.

While there enough interesting people to have an exchange with, Takeo spotted the Senju dignitary. Truth be told, Takeo had his own questions regarding where the leader of the Senju was. He could remember Gakuro from the previous meetings. Not that there was something wrong with a clan sending in someone else to be present and represent their clan.
Approaching the dignitary, Takeo flashed a disarming smile.
"Master Senju," Takeo began as he briefly lowered his head out of respect, "I hope you have tried the sake that they are serving. While I do enjoy the various wines of the Alaricus, there is just something to the more traditional drinks. Don’t you agree?"

While some were enjoying the evening, Resu was feeling a bit sour over how things went. He had presented his idea and it was shown how there was still work to be done over it, but the way the Hanta and Hyuuga decided to push their agenda over made things feel only worse in his eyes. If the foolish Hanta hadn’t spoken up, he might’ve managed to conclude the topic with what he considered to be a minimal amount of insults. But then it happened, and he just sat there, taking each in while knowing well he brought it upon himself by bringing up the topic.

As he took a sip from his drink, Lord Tamiyo had decided to approach him and ask about the drinks he elected to try. Resu took another sip before nodding in agreement ”Lord Tamiyo,” Resu gave him a polite bow before continuing ”The traditional drinks hold heritage. The history of the people. That’s what makes them have a special place for me. And I am trying it as we speak,” He said, briefly looking at the glass he held before glancing back at Lord Tamiyo ”How has your evening been so far?” He asked, waiting to see if the Tamiyo will immediately jump to whatever topic he had in mind, or if there will be some more pleasantries first.

"My evening has been splendid,” Takeo responded, his words sounding quite genuine, "I find it quite refreshing to be part of a meeting that is properly led rather than the poor excuse that was held before. It is what I most appreciate about her Majesty when it comes to these gatherings. She may appear young and timid, she certainly knows how to keep the reigns under her control.”
The Tamiyo flashed another smile as he shot a look at their right, only to continue.
"Maybe something she owes to her Chonobi heritage, hm? Or perhaps some rumours about her nomadic roots? What do you suspect, my good Master Senju?”

”If I had to try and put my finger on it, I’d say it is a bit of both, not to mention the influence of her numerous mentors she had. When you learn from people from so many different upbringings, it is likely to take an interesting effect on how you seek to do things, and I believe we see it well on her Majesty and the way she chooses to do things.” Resu said, before taking another sip from his drink.
Looking at Lord Tamiyo, he offered a polite smile in return ”And I think something that can be quite appreciated is how it allows us to see the lands of the different clans. It is not something you could’ve done with this setting five years ago. Clan leaders and representatives, all coming together under one roof and speaking in such a civil way. If you told me five years ago I will be sitting across from Lord Hon, or Lord Tokugawa, like this, I wouldn’t have believed you.”

The smile of Takeo vanished as he listened to Resu. His free hand moved to his chin, gently rubbing it as if Takeo needed to consider the last words of Resu. "Hmm, perhaps not in the presence of the Fire Daimyo’s, no, true. Though I have always found other cultures to be fascinating. A trait that my people perhaps have a bit different from your folk from the Fire. If you desire to see more places where cultures tend to coexist without the urges to annihilate or dominate another, you and yours are free to visit my dominion.”
The friendly smile returned as Takeo lowered his hand. "I am quite at home with the Yakimara, if I say so myself. Interesting people they are. But I must question if it is truly civil. Not too long ago, it nearly seemed that you and the Sarutobi dignitary were clashing over something. Did I miss something or has the relationship between your two clans sour?”

The mention of the exchange between him and the Sarutobi dignitary gave Resu an itch in his brow. He took a sip as Takeo asked his question ”I can’t say for myself that it has soured. It was never truly friendly or on good terms. The Senju and Sarutobi have a history, where the Sarutobi had tried raiding the Senju on numerous occasions, and also took part in the war of the Senju against the Cho, on the side of the Cho. So I personally wouldn’t say that it soured, more that this is how it has been. And even if it may not appear truly civil, it is much more civil than how you would likely see an encounter in a street be.” Resu explained, before letting out a small sigh.
”There is still more work to be done if we ever want to see an improvement. But it will take an initiative from either side. And right now, I am not yet sure which side it will come from, if at all.” Resu said, appearing to be more somewhat tired from the mere thought of the topic at hand.

"Ooh?”, was the sound that softly seemed to escape Takeo’s lips - as if he was oblivious to the fact that some Taika and Chonobi clans had some bad history. "I tend to think it is more of a combination of wanting and needing. Without a need, we can want but what truly will motivate us to cooperate? We don’t understand all their ways. Nor do they likely understand ours.”
Takeo once more shot a look to the side, as if he was looking for a prime example that was just waiting to be used. "But I don’t fear that the diversity will rip this good realm apart. It is just that we might need to get used to sharing some luxurious with the other kind of nobility. A shame that not all of us can appreciate a tad of diversity, though.”
Takeo took a sip of his drink as he finished speaking before turning fully towards Resu once more. A curiosity became visible in the Tamiyo’s expression. His lips parting as he lowered his drink.
"I do need to confess, Master Senju. I was expecting your Lord to be present at this meeting. May I ask why he hasn’t come to attend to her Majesty’s invitation? I would love to exchange some matters with him, if possible.”

Resu simply listened to Lord Tamiyo’s words. He agreed with Takeo’s opinion, but after what occurred during the meeting, he had little desire to actually show it. When the lord moved on to his next question, the Senju lowered his eyes to his drink for a brief moment.
”Since becoming our leader, young Lord Gakuro did his best to attend to every topic he could. And I mean every topic, every issue. A few months ago, it seems to have finally caught up to him. Medical staff that treated him, initially in quiet as to not cause worry among our people, had informed me that he let his body suffer from too much stress and wear, and his body is currently at an increased risk of being exposed to any number of illnesses. While a full recovery is expected, it will still take him another month or two, and until the time comes, he is to remain in his home, for his own well-being.” Resu explained with a rather grim expression ”But as Lord Senju’s chosen representative, you can discuss any type of matter that you would wish to discuss with him. If you still prefer to discuss things with him, then I am afraid it will need to wait for a bit longer.”

Takeo’s eyebrows slightly perked up. He wasn’t surprised that the young man hadn’t taken too well to the stress that came with the responsibility of being a leader. The pressure could be heavy enough to cause physical complaints, so far Takeo was aware. But that didn’t bother the Tamiyo. He had hoped to be able to negotiate about some deals with someone of true and established nobility. Not what appeared to be a mere lackey, a lesser.
But seeing that there was no other choice, Takeo decided to not let it halt his own agenda.
"If it would be acceptable, I can have some of my best physicians be sent to your Lord. Else I am certain that I have some competent people under my rule that can do their best to remove some stress of your Lord.” Takeo began, once more the disarming smile appearing. "But very well. I suppose that if your Lord trusted you enough to be his herald here, I shall not offend you by refusing to discuss the matters with you.”

Taking a second of pause, Takeo gently kept shifting the weight of his drink - causing the sake to sway around but never close enough to tip over the edge. "I was wondering if the Senju were willing to negotiate and be interested in possibly creating an arranged marriage. I am no stranger to the achievements of some esteemed kin of your Lord. And it does seem that we agree on a lot of matters.”
The Tamiyo once more paused as he almost playfully gauged Resu. "Of course, this isn’t just an arranged marriage without some treaty to it. I was considering to strengthen our bonds by further promoting trade and engaging in projects together. I aim not to appear too arrogant, Master Senju, but ever since the downfall of your clan I do suppose that it could use my kin’s help. After all,” Takeo raised his drink slightly, "A need and motivation, eh?”

”The offer is appreciated, but I will need to hear from Lord Senju if he will allow physicians from other places to come.” Resu started with a nod of appreciation. Thinking of the other part of the Tamiyo’s proposal, the Senju pondered for a moment ”It is certainly an appealing proposal. Though I wouldn’t phrase it as downfall of my clan, more as a,” Resu paused for a moment as he considered his words ”Temporary decline. The Senju shall rise to prominence once more, Lord Tamiyo. And I do agree that we see numerous things eye to eye and I can certainly see how having such a treaty beneficial to us.”
Pausing once more, Resu looked over Takeo before speaking again ”There are many things I wish to question about the proposal, but for the time being I shall refrain from doing so. You can have my assurance, as the mentor of Lord Gakuro the second and his chosen representative, that I will pass the details of the proposed arranged marriage. While I wish to say that I could accept it on my own accord, an arranged marriage is something for the leader to decide upon. But I will make sure to help sell the idea to my lord. In times like these, having allies such as you will only be helpful.” Resu said and offered a smile and a nod, before raising his own glass ”Need and motivation indeed.”

Takeo was wondering if it truly was a temporary decline or a simple setback. It seemed that the Senju clan was having some serious struggles. And it wasn’t a small thing for a Great Clan to fall apart. However, instead of voicing his opinion or thoughts on it, Takeo smiled and took a sip of his glass.
"Very well. Do let me know if your Lord desires to receive the aid from my physicians and therapists. I am not a fan myself of the likes of acupuncture. But some find it just delightful and able to ease themselves with it.” Lowering his glass, Takeo once more nodded towards Resu.
"Thank you for this wonderful exchange Master Senju. I bid you a good evening now.”
 
Operation Bloody Mist
[ The Republic of Water | Unknown Location within the Quarantine Zone ]
[ Yumi Hasewaga | a Scholae of the Empire of Akino ]


Stretching, Yumi would close her eyes. Slowly letting her arms descend to her sides, the Scholae wondered for a moment on how she should execute her next move. It would only be a matter of time before the Shiranui start to get a sniff. And she rather advanced her plan before those damned hounds were after her.
A soft sigh escaped Yumi's lips as she would step out of the shadows. The hood that covered some of her features did little to protect her against the morning cold. Nonetheless, the young woman calmly continued. After all, her next target should be an ANBU, at least.
There was some consideration that she could perhaps get away with taking down a member of the regular shinobi corps. But it was way easier to ask questions to a chuunin or jounin than to a member of the dreaded ANBU.
Of course, various problems arose with the plan. ANBU were rarely alone when stationed to deal with a situation like a quarantine zone. That and sneaking upon a member of the ANBU was something that required a huge amount of luck.
"Good thing that I don't need to rely on luck," Yumi mused, "just need an opening."



The security around the quarantine was tight. There were the soldiers and shinobi of the regular military, that were in plain sight. Doing patrol rounds and guarding the variable exists and entrances - that was further fortified and barricaded.
Not to mention the various make-shift outposts that were set up in various tall buildings or rooftops. Giving those soldiers and shinobi a good view on who approached or left a barricaded spot. Not to mention, making travel over rooftops in the quarantine zone far from accessible if you weren't part of the Republican military.
But there were also ANBU at work.
Yumi hadn't spotted any yet and she figured it was likely due to the fact they had different tasks and way of operations. A given fact, for sure but there was more to it than the ANBU just being different.
Either that meant that the ANBU did some more shady surveillance over the area or committed patrols during the more unholy hours.

A scoff escaped Yumi as she watched various individuals walk over the nearby plaza. She had already an idea on how to draw out some ANBU. All it took was the right bait.
The purple coloured gaze fell upon a small child that tripped over and landed hard on a knee.
"The Fire guides, indeed."
Watching how the child scrambled itself up with clear pain, Yumi pushed herself off the wall. Approaching the child, the hooded Scholae would flash an innocent smile.



Waiting, Yumi had her eyes closed. But she listened intently for any signals that would betray her possible quarry. If anything, the game of this night would be the deadly lure and kill. A strategy that seemed a mimicry from various animals. Remembering the story of some fisher that once told her of various fish that pretended to be dead, only to lure in smaller fish, caused Yumi to grow slightly amused.
As time continued to slowly by, the night itself unaltered by the imminent struggle, Yumi finally heard something.
It was very faint, as a mere whisper. But the soft clink was enough to alert the Akinian operative.
There was a moment of silence. Only to be disturbed by the cracking of wood.

Opening her eyes, Yumi narrowed them as she would spring into action.
 
The Yakimara Exchange
[ Kanazawa, Uchiha Heartlands - Empire of Akino ]
[ Imperial Gathering ]
[ A collab between @ChromeHound and @Lesli | The current leaders of the Nara and Yamanaka clan have an exchange. Tsuru Yamanaka and Shikamura Nara discuss their viewpoints on the current meetings. A few hints are dropped on their opinion on certain clans and subjects that have been brought up. ]


Taking a sip of her drink, Tsuru was so far content on how the meeting had gone. There were subtle differences from the previous meetings. But if one thing had been clear, then it was the mere fact that a larger opening was given to rise in power and influence. Only for it to reveal various alliances and cooperations. Not to mention who seemed to owe who a certain favour.
Observing the hall from her place, she wondered what deals and matters would be agreed upon by various dignitaries and clans. For even the smallest of change would herald new shifts in alliances, influence and the reason for diplomatic exchanges.
Lowering her glass, Tsuru had no desire to stay for a prolonged time. Knowing, however, that it would be very disrespectful and suspicious if she left too early, Tsuru began to wonder how she would attempt to manage the newly given fief.

“I believe congratulations are in order,” came a voice from behind her. Approaching with a warm smile, Shikamura lowered his head in a display of respect. “It is always nice to see a fellow Yakimara getting the opportunity to show their full potential.” Tilting his own glass slightly, the Nara clan leader took a sip and glanced around the room. “I must say, I continue to find these meetings most fascinating. How about yourself?”

Turning her head slightly to throw a glance at the person who congratulated her, Tsuru flashed a smile at Shikamura. Returning the bow with her head, she would be quick to respond. ”Your kind words make this victory even taste sweeter." Tsuru said, a hint of amusement ringing clear, "I agree. Most certainly when it becomes clear who is playing with who. Or against who."
Taking a sip of her drink, Tsuru briefly glanced at a few groups and individuals that seemed to be engaged with each other into conversations.
"I would still love to see your kin being involved with this new fief. Perhaps even with advancing further to see how we can manage to acquire more, with her Majesty’s approval. "

Continuing to smile, Shikamura nodded slowly. “It is enough for me for now to see the Yamanaka are being given this opportunity.” Thinking about something else briefly, the Nara scratched his chin with his free hand. “The Empress did seem open to the suggestion for a new medical division within the Empire. With any luck, this will allow us to show her that the Yakimara can truly be an asset.” Taking another sip, the man continued, “I do imagine those who jumped in, wishing to be a part of it were a little less trustful. There also appeared to be some slight misunderstandings as to the exact purpose, but I imagine I can clear things up if given the opportunity.”

Tsuru gained a soft smile upon hearing that Shikamura was content for now. When he brought up the new medical division, the Yamanaka had her own thoughts about it. "I do have to admit that I expect her Majesty to consider this to be close to combat medics. But how will you deal with the fact that some other clans will attempt to stick their noses into it? I reckon it won’t be good for the plan altogether if it has too many squabbling elements in it."
Chuckling, Shikamura nodded. “I’m inclined to agree.” Shrugging, he let out a soft sigh. “It appears trust must still be earned. Despite my intentions, I can see how recent events have left others… a little cautious. Nevertheless,” glancing around once more, he continued, “I believe I can reassure the others that this isn’t some diabolical ploy to take over their lands. I will simply need the opportunity.”

"The opportunity to take it? I didn’t think we were that ready but you can count me in," Tsuru half-joked, "I reckon that it is a bit more than that though. With the introduction of these fiefs, I wager that most are thrilled to jump at anything that seems to reap some favour. Even if it is just piggy-back riding of another."
Throwing a look at a few individuals, Tsuru continued.
"But I doubt that you’ll have to deal with many. It seems that most are fascinated by other ways than to wrestle their way into your medical division."

“That much is certainly true,” Shikamura responded, laughing once more. “For many, they are easily distracted, simply need to be pointed in the direction of something shiny and they’ll forget all about the other items. There are some, however,” Shikamura took a pause, sipping from his drink and glancing at a few individuals within the room, “who require a slightly more delicate touch.” The Nara had plans to speak with some already, though he didn’t know if he’d have the opportunity to catch them on their own before the night was done. It was no matter though. If he could not speak with them here, Shikamura was confident he’d be able to arrange a meeting outside this gathering.

“So,” he said, glancing back towards Tsuru, “any plans for all that new space? Perhaps a nice garden or two?” His tone was teasing, and the Shikamura barely concealed his smile with another sip of his drink.

"Just be safe and wear gloves when you’re going to play with the dogs and some of those cats," Tsuru replied, already having a good hunch who Shikamura was considering to approach. She would have offered her help but reckoned that it would likely be a bit ‘too much’. And she was more than content to focus on her own ambitions first.
"I was actually considering that," Tsuru said, feigning a most serious tone, "together with a few establishments that will see to the weary travellers, I am certain that I can earn a good coin out of it. Maybe even lure in some noble patrons."

Deciding to swap to speaking Yakimara, Tsuru continued as she dropped the feigned tone.
"I am considering letting a few of the lesser tribes settle in. Once I have done that, I will see to it that the region becomes more profitable. To the point that the Crown would be all too happy to keep renewing the fief to my clan."

His smile never faded, but Shikamura took in Tsuru’s words rather seriously. When she switched to speaking Yakimara, he happily joined her. Nodding along after she had finished, Shikamura replied, “Definitely a good way to take advantage of the opportunity. I imagine there are those who will struggle with the newfound responsibility and others who may be a little too eager for their own good.” Scratching his chin once more, the Nara wondered how the clans would react to this new shift. “Sounds like you’ve already got quite a good chance of prospering with this new land. As always, if there is anything the Nara can do to be of service, we are more than happy to help.” Finishing his drink, Shikamura signalled one of the nearby servers to fetch him another. “Definitely some interesting developments in this meeting though, hmm?” the Nara asked, tilting his head slightly as he looked back at Tsuru, “Anything that caught your attention in particular?”

"I am betting on it, to be fair," Tsuru started, "how else am I to prove a point? Or to amuse myself these days?" Taking a sip of her drink, she would subtly shake her head.
"Then again, I sincerely doubt that there will be any opposition. The wolves and hawks are too busy with each other. As for your offer," Tsuru shot him a look, "I will certainly remember that. I like to think that this isn’t just a victory for the Yamanaka. But for all of the Yakimara in general."

Taking a second, she waited as a servant came to hand Shikamura another drink. As the young man left, attending to another honoured guest, Tsuru continued.
"I noticed a few expected alliances at play. But also a few that I hadn’t expected. I would say that it has certainly to do with this newfound idea of a unit going around. Something that I still find utterly redundant. As if I would entrust my kin to the command of one of those, just like that."

Thanking the servant who had brought his drink, Shikamura swirled it around for a moment, thinking. “Seems to me that they don’t even fully know what they want out of it,” the Nara began, glancing around the room. “Will also be curious to see how long this thing holds together if it is to remain under the leadership of the Hyuuga. I imagine that may rub some the wrong way.”

"I suspect that it already has. The way how the Hanta started it already made it start on thin ice. It prolonged the Senju suggestion, which was already taken down. However," Tsuru slightly frowned, "I reckon that it will encounter heavy resistance. The current military is dominated largely by the wolves. I figure that they will see this as an underhanded way to undermine that status quo. And judging by the fact they want this new unit to operate with the Empress grace, means that they want to operate without restriction. A dangerous trait, if you ask me."
Emptying her drink, Tsuru would still hold on to the glass.
"I already will object to having this unit to enter into Yamanaka territory. So far, any zealot activity has been dealt with, properly."

Nodding slowly, Shikamura took a slow sip from his drink. “It definitely appears to be starting precariously. Time will tell how much progress they’re able to achieve before this gets absorbed into the regular military.” Shrugging, he looked back at Tsuru. “Most have been able to repel incoming threats, well… at least those who are capable of protecting themselves. It is true that some of the clans with less resources may look to this new support, but I can’t imagine it will garner much success outside of that. Especially if they try and turn this into a situation like the Omari had. Coming in as the ‘saviors’ only to vassalize them… doesn’t exactly inspire others to join now, does it?”

"No, I can’t imagine that would really make for a good story to paint them as heroic saviours," was Tsuru’s answer, "then again, I fear that this kind of behaviour is merely the lack of true culture and refinement. If anything, the squabbling and rivalry that seems to beset the likes of the Omari and other such clans, only have the result that they cave in. Only if there was something of interest to pounce on, it could serve our interests well. But it does create some amusement. And perhaps a wise lesson for those who succeed us eventually."

Chuckling, Shikamura nodded his agreement. “If nothing else, some amusement in these times is certainly welcome.” Remaining silent for a moment, the Nara took a few more sips of his drink. “Seemed to be a few more speaking up at this meeting. Might be a few more clans to keep an eye on.”

Following the gaze of Shikamura briefly, an amused chuckle escaped Tsuru. "A few more will most certainly speak up. But it is just the question if they will succeed or horribly fail. So far, I fear that certain clans have made a blunder by sending someone this inexperienced." Holding her attention on the respective figures for a few seconds, Tsuru clicked her tongue softly.
"I wanted to state that I desire to venture out now. But wasn’t there supposed to be this tournament?" Turning her gaze to Shikamura, Tsuru did little to hide her curiosity, "Will your kin join this particular event? Or are you going to sit it out?"

“Hmm,” Shikamura began, a hint of amusement clear in his tone, “I must admit, I do enjoy the ‘fresh’ perspectives we get from some of these inexperienced individuals, however.” Tilting his head as Tsuru mentioned the tournament, Shikaroku let out a slight sigh. “Ah yes, the tournament… a good opportunity for those who feel the need to exhibit their… abilities.” His tone had shifted to one of slight sarcasm, but a smile warmed his features. “The Nara will be joining. Will be interesting to observe, at the very least.” With a slight glint in his eyes, Shikamura glanced towards Tsuru. “How about you?”

"The Yamanaka will enter. But only to entertain her Majesty. I fear that my clan misses the certain urge to shout and display martial prowess like some of the other clans," Tsuru stated, a smile covering her lips. "but I do hope to be witness to some entertaining match-ups. There are the classics that will likely keep all satisfied. But if we go by this meeting? I reckon that we will witness some new good matches being in the making."
For a second, Tsuru seemed to ponder about something before she decided to bring it up.
"Perhaps you would be so bold to later engage into some small wagers? To make the event even that more entertaining."

There was definitely the promise of some entertaining matchups. Despite Shikamura not being hugely invested in displays of martial prowess, he did look forward to witnessing some of the matches. As Tsuru proposed a wager, Shikamura grinned widely. “My, my,” he began, chuckling, “I feel that might indeed bring some more entertainment. What did you have in mind?”

The fact that Shikamura was open for it only confirmed that this tournament wouldn’t be too bad. She figured that not an awful lot of the dignitaries present would be up for a wager. "Just a few silver to see who will win a wager. I reckon that it would be only giving me an excuse to not take an early leave from it and head south once more."
Considering something else, Tsuru continued, a rather devious tone creeping into the woman’s voice. "Maybe if one of us does win, we will split the reward?"

Scratching his chin again, the Nara’s smile widened further. “Well I do believe that sounds most intriguing indeed. Especially if it means you’ll be sticking around. Who else would I be able to bicker with if you left, hmm?” Glancing around the room, Shikamura wondered who else might be interested in such a wager. “I suppose we’ll have to ask around quietly to see who we could get involved. Unless you had another idea?”

The notion of them bickering caused Tsuru to chuckle without any restraint. She threw a glance in the room and figured that she could find a person for Shikamura to try to bicker with. "I can think of a few. But I wouldn’t like to miss out. For now, I think that we could ask a few of the people who won’t see much disgrace in such a light-hearted… competition. Else we can keep it easily between us, if we can’t think or find anyone else."
A servant would finally notice the empty glass that Tsuru held. The young servant politely approached and Tsuru responded in turn, handing over the glass. Friendly declining the offer of another drink, Tsuru waited for the servant to leave her and Shikamura once more alone.
"Though I desire to retire soon. How about we continue this in the morning of the tournament? Perhaps then we can gauge who would be interested in joining our little fun."

Chuckling, Shikamura nodded. “That sounds most excellent indeed.” He was going to have to ponder on this to see who else they might be able to engage for their little wager. It was an interesting thought. As Tsuru mentioned she wished to retire for the evening, Shikamura bowed his head politely in a display of respect. “Well then, Lady Yamanaka. It was a true pleasure, as always. Until next time.”
 
Dirty Blades - Part 1
[ Eastern Continent | Wolf Country - northern front | Imperial Forces of the 11th Brigade ]
[ A collab of @Oblivion666 , @RedFox , @Aliceee , @FrostedCaramel and @Oetje |
Send out on their respective task, Meilin leads her team to ambush a Rongese patrol. Though successful, the Rongese troops have a few tricks up their sleeve. Revealing that this mission won't be going entirely smooth or according to the anticipation of the Akinian operatives ]



Meilin stared at the woodlands before her. On one knee, she was intently listening. There were some faint sounds of the fauna around them. But nothing that indicated a Rongese patrol. Though patient, Meilin could feel a certain itch in her hands. The mere thought that she could soon enough get more of her revenge was awakening a desire. One that she could temper and keep under control by reminding that she was leading a team.
As for now, the team was split in various locations. In a strategic position to overlap and not remain too distant from each other, they could jump into action without being in each other’s way. Yet, being close enough that they couldn’t be isolated.

The foliage around them luckily was green, due to the high altitude not favouring the flora that tended to shake its leaves off during the cold season.
Focusing on listening to the surroundings, Meilin would chew softly on her lower lip. Only as a minute slowly passed by she would make a pull at the thin wire, that led to the others. A gentle pull that would signal a question, if everyone was still alright.

His surroundings were making him feel strangely calm, despite the odds they were about to face. The young Senju was taking in the details of his vicinity with all of his senses, going over everything he noticed, analysing for any potential threats. So far, he has found none. He was kneeling next to a tree at the edge of a treeline, overlooking their area of operations. Experiencing a slight uneasiness - radiating from his stomach, one that was also affecting his mind was the only cause of discomfort for him. Mamoru knew he would have to kill again. There was just no escaping it, and the thought was worrying.I h-have to do it to protect my team, my friends, the empire I serve, he kept reminding himself together with clenching his bandaged arm. But the question was, could he bring down his blade with the intent to kill? Well, one way or another, I’ll find out soon.

His train of thoughts was interrupted by a slight pull on the string they were all sharing. The call to report any possible targets. He waited a few seconds, going over his field of vision, scanning for anything out of order. There was nothing to report so far, except the wildlife and them, there was no other life there. Taking a deep breath, he gently pulled on it as well, sending his reply of there being nothing to report. Then he waited for the rest of the team to report in.

The wait wasn’t considered bothersome for Dagrún. Sure, she was looking forward to test her mettle again. Even if there was no bet in place, that didn’t mean she was going to slack. The fact that other units were in play made her want to outperform them. Certainly with the fact that one unit was formed by Scyldings from Gwade. Dagrún was most curious on how those Scyldings would perform.
Feeling a small pull at the wire, Dagrún waited for a second.

She couldn’t detect any enemies. A shame, she mused to herself as she would gently pull back at the wire. Once done, Dagrún didn’t ease up. Knowing that the enemies could be spotted at any moment, the Hon licked her lips. Flexing the fingers of her right hand, she already was hoping for a chance to meet a somewhat more skilled enemy.

Though Aoi sat as still as possible, her eyes raced from every hint of movement or suggestion of a shadow in front of her. She found herself obsessing over everything in her vision, her mind racing over the possibilities that the enemy was out there, that they were watching and waiting just as they were. She scanned the same three bushes again, moved quickly to a patch of evergreens and back to the bushes. There was something wrong with the bushes. She switched to the evergreens further away, they were off too. As quickly as she moved her focus she was back to the bushes and then off to the far crest of a hill before bringing her view back in on the closest patch of evergreens. She could feel her hands trembling as she scanned and scanned though if it was because of the cold or not she wasn’t sure.

She nearly jumped out of her hiding spot as the wire at her side tugged on her, her heart beating faster than she could ever remember it going in her entire life as she traced the wire back to where she knew her teammates were. She eyed the wire, the possibility that whoever was on the other end had been killed and it was now the enemy hung in her mind as she reached to give it a tug back. She struggled to grip the wire for a moment as her fingers refused to cooperate and then gave it a slight tug in acknowledgement that she was alright. As quickly as she had been torn from her scanning by the wire she was back at it. The bushes again. Some rocks further down. Bushes again.

From where he was he had a good vantage point to duck in and out of the foliage and treeline. Part of him was unsure of today, not because he had been injured before that didn’t bother him. Trusting others to not fuck up however was a far different story. He didn’t trust a bunch of genin on missions with highly dangerous probabilities, and he didn’t trust that other units could fuck them over by accident. Not to mention everyone has been more on edge, which he couldn’t fault them for. This was a war they were in, yet rash thoughts brought disaster.

As he surveyed the area the wire next to him bounced against him, which meant someone was tugging. He saw it move several more times which was the others responding. Gripping the wire he tugged on his end as well. He half debated not tugging it so Meilin would get worried, but he opted against it as she seemed to be under pressure as of late as well. Mentally sighing he scanned the landscape again. He could only hope today didn’t bring misfortune.

Minutes would pass by without an indication that a patrol would pass by. Then out of nowhere, some noises could be detected from the west. A group around fifteen Rongese soldiers would come into sight. Their gear looking like scraps or what these men likely looted from victims of their crude and hostile activities.
At the back of the column was what appeared to be a lowly officer. His gear and stride betraying him, showing more quality and discipline. A stern gaze fixated on the Rongese detachment. A sneer would escape the lips of the officer, causing the soldiers to march more in cohesion and be more attentive.

Though under the watch of the stern officer, the unit seem lackluster and not checking behind every bush. Their direction would take them straight on the path where Dagrún was hidden and it would take a few moments before they would pass the hiding spot of Aoi and Meilin.

Narrowing her eyes, Meilin trailed where the enemy unit was heading. Pulling the wire to notify the others, the second sign was to be timed at the right moment. Or else they would be the ones to be paralyzed by Dagrún’s ability.
Remaining silent in her spot, Meilin allowed the enemy to just march past her. There was a desire to jump out and start a bloody work herself. But that would defeat the purpose of the planned ambush.
Briefly she trained her eyes on the present officer. His spot in the unit didn’t mean that he would get harmless out of it. But there was little to no mentioning that they were to capture any kind of officers on this operation.
Once the enemy unit was past the mark on the ground, Meilin tugged hard at the wire as she started to mould chakra at her hand - hopefully allowing her to be unphased by what was to come.

Mamoru gritted his teeth at the sight of the enemy force moving towards them. He tightly grasped the wire tightly, his hands slightly shaky. He felt his breathing getting faster and more ragged as he counted the enemy. He almost jumped up at the air at the first tug. His breathing went from ragged to panicked as he was preparing himself for what was about to happen. Every second seemed like an eternity for him right now, as the enemy slowly approached him. He quickly measured the enemy and started to do a count of their numbers, but stopped soon afterwards, realizing it was only chipping away at his resolve. When the second, hard tug came through the wire, he clenched his jaw so hard it was beginning to hurt as he moulded his chakra into his hands.

The enemies came alright, staying hidden as he watched them, they strolled right on by where Aoi and Meilin were and would soon be right on top of Dagrun’s position. What followed this sight was a hard yank on the wire which meant only one thing. Moulding chakra around his hand Madoc kept a firm grip on the wire. The next part resided on the blonde Hon, then what followed next should be a rather quick and effective silence to the enemies. If not then they needed to back up Dagrun and quickly.

They had come, just as she knew they would. A group of the Rong soldiers making their way noisily along the path. Her anxiety was gone the moment she saw them, instead replaced with a dizzying clarity in what had to be done next. Coating her hand in chakra she winced as she wondered just how much of the coming attack she might feel even with the chakra forming a barrier but pushed it away as she felt the tug on the wire. Her anticipation rose with the tug and she felt her anxiety begin to return as she watched the Rong soldiers move closer to Dagrun’s position and waited for the trap to be sprung.

Dagrún remained silent, her focus set on the enemy unit. Their lack of discipline and nerves to not worry about the prospect of having foes like her calibre being nearby, started to boil Dagrún’s blood. The Hon’s nostrils briefly widened as she breathed out and her eyes narrowed.
The heavy tug at the wire barely registered as Dagrún felt like shedding blood in a conventional manner. To avenge the slight she perceived from these Rongese enemies.
But reigning in her anger, Dagrún would channel her chakra in a different fashion.

Lightning lashed out, a menacing sound being the only warning for the rapidly approaching threat. Leaves would be scorched as the deadly energy heated up and would cut through anything.
Rising up, Dagrún glared at the opposing forces before she started to run to the right - hoping that the others would do the same.

The soldiers acted as one would imagine: surprised.
The sudden appearance of the Hon and then the wire that started to become engulfed in lightning was something that none of them had seen coming. Before a reaction was pulled off by the Rongese troops, the Akinian shinobi would dispatch them in a gruesome manner.
The wire cut through the soldiers, the intense lightning carving a bloody path through the formation while the Rongese either fell down - mortally wounded or simply dead.
The wounds were gruesome to behold as some soft moans of pain and agony escaped the dying, blood soaking the area and a horrible stench filling the air.

Then an explosion occurred. It wasn’t large enough to blast anything more than some dust into the air and send a wave of hot air at the members of Team 4. But the sound would likely alert anyone observant enough in the wide area. Another explosion occurred, followed by another as the bodies of the dead Rongese seemed to be triggered or rigged.
A column of dust was further blown into the wind, soon likely to rise above the canopy of the pine trees.

The trap worked just as Meilin had hoped for. The Rongese soldiers were cut in a brutal fashion but it did little to bother Meilin. A part of her was satisfied to see the enemies being brutally maimed and killed, while another wavered at seeing such terrible onslaught.
But what would be a swift victory would turn around into surprise and a twinge of fear.
Dropping the wire that Meilin had held onto, her hand awfully feeling itchy and sore, the Cho reacted out of instinct.
When the explosions started to pile up and follow each other, blowing dust and hot air into their direction, Meilin raised her arms to protect her head.
[/spoiler]
 
[ Kanazawa, Uchiha Heartlands - Empire of Akino ]
[ Imperial Gathering ]
[ A collab between @ChromeHound and @Oetje |
Shikamura Nara, the lord of the Nara clan, engages into a conversation with Hirasuke Uchiha - the right hand of Lord Uchiha. The two discuss about the Nara's suggestion for a medical division. Not to mention, Lord Nara invites both Hirasuke as the Lord Uchiha to visit the Nara heartlands ]





Walking throughout the hall, Shikamura kept an eye and ear on those around him. There were a few who had gathered together for brief conversations and, while the Nara found some of the gatherings interesting, he had other business to attend to and had no time to eavesdrop. He had finished a pleasant conversation with Tsuru, something that Shikamura always found enjoyable, and was now looking forward to speaking with another.

Approaching the Uchiha representative, Shikamura lowered his head respectfully, greeting the man with a warm smile. “It is always a pleasure to visit these beautiful lands, Master Uchiha. The Nara clan would like to extend their thanks for this invitation.”

The approach of Shikamura was responded with a small but graceful bow in return. ”Ah, Lord Nara! You honour me with your presence. I would certainly consider the invitation. For I have yet to be graced with the beauty that your lands are described with.”
A smile found its way on Hirasuke’s lips. The Uchiha would signal to a nearby servant to come closer with a plate, filled with small refreshments.
”Have you yet gotten the chance to try one of these? I must admit that I must restrain myself from eating too many. The wife has been complaining about my nearly scandalous addiction to sweets,” the Uchiha friendly bantered on as he picked up a small mochi sweet.

“We would be honoured to have you as a visitor in our humble lands,” Shikamura responded, his tone friendly. As Hirasuke offered him a treat, the Nara’s eyes widened slightly and the man nodded enthusiastically. “I have not yet had the pleasure,” he admitted, happily picking up a sweet of his own. “I have been known to have a bit of a sweet tooth myself from time to time though.” Popping the treat into his mouth, Shikamura savoured the flavour for a long moment before smiling once more. “Your wife is quite wise,” he began, “I can see how these would become easily quite dangerous.” Plucking another from the plate, the Nara took a sip of his drink. “How did you find your first major clan meeting?” Shikamura asked, “You certainly handled yourself very well.”

The smile turned into a grin on Hirasuke’s features when Shikamura agreed with him regarding the sweets. The question seemed to drive some of the amusement away, causing Hirasuke to adopt a more serious expression.
”Truth be told Lord Nara and I can hope that I can be that honest with you, I found this meeting interesting. But I am a bit disappointed with certain factors. I had hoped to see more of the legendary figures I heard about. Those that lead certain clans that I am most intrigued by. But it is certainly an interesting event, to have all these people from different clans represent them. Or in some cases, attempt to,” the Uchiha added a subtle wink as he placed his own hands behind his back.
”But I thank you for your compliment. Lord Uchiha himself saw to it that only the best would serve his interests as he is occupied with other important matters. If you desire, I can see fit that his Lord Uciha will be notified of the invitation. Perhaps, with your blessing, I can bring Lord Uchiha with me? When I visit your lands.”


Chuckling slightly as the Hirasuke mentioned those who were floundering a bit in their attempts to represent their clans, Shikamura popped the other sweet into his mouth and chewed happily. When the man had finished, he nodded again, the smile never leaving his face. “We would be delighted to have Lord Uchiha visit as well. I fear it has been too long since I’ve been able to enjoy a good chat with him. Life keeps us busy, I’m afraid.”

Taking a sip from his drink, Shikamura was slightly disappointed that it washed away some of the flavour of the moshi treat, but the drink itself had a nice taste. “I must admit, I found the experience to be rather different from my expectations when I attended my first clan meeting as well. The stories certainly feel a bit different from the results.” Twisting his wrist slightly to swirl the drink, Shikamura continued, “If I might say, I believe Lord Uchiha would have been proud of the way you conducted yourself. The man is never one to back down from what he believes in and you certainly exemplified that here.”

”Life indeed finds a way to keep us occupied. But good! I will inform Lord Uchiha as soon as this event is concluded. I am certain that he would be most pleased to have an excuse to travel again,” Hirasuke continued with a friendly tone as Shikamura spoke of the previous clan meetings and on how Hirasuke had represented his clan. ”Oh? I am most honoured by your kind words, Lord Nara.”
Briefly and very subtly, Hirasuke would lower his head to place an emphasis on his reply.
”Would you then be so kind to perhaps indulge me? I have only so much use for rumours and whispers of the previous clan meetings. I feel a tad ashamed, my good lord Nara but I must confess that I even desire to know your opinion on the calamity that was the Kusanagi. From what I could uncover is that they were quite the,” pausing for a second, Hirasuke visibly considered how he would phrase the next part, ”odd appearances.”

Leaning in instinctively as Hirasuke lowered his tone, Shikamura listened closely, intrigued. When the man mentioned the Kusanagi, the Nara hesitated, chewing his lip thoughtfully. Nodding slowly, he tried to forumlate his reply. “Before I say anything regarding the history of the Kusanagi in these clan meetings, I wish to state that I do try and avoid spreading any negative words regarding another clan.” With that said, Shikamura took a sip from his drink and scratched his chin. “Where to begin...” he mused. “Well, I suppose the most diplomatic thing I could say would be that they brought a very… unique perspective to the meetings. Things were never all that dull when they were around. Whether that led towards a fruitful meeting or not, you could always be certain that you’d remain entertained in one capacity or another.”

Taking another pause, Shikamura thought back to the few meetings the Kusanagi had attended and the events that came about from their… antics. “With their nomadic culture, it certainly rubbed many clans the wrong way as they felt it was their right to travel between lands, regardless of who owned them. They believed that none actually owned any land and, as you can imagine, that didn’t sit well with many who had fought and bled for the land they possess today.” A particular memory came to mind and Shikamura let out a soft chuckle. “Even those who tried to sympathize with them to some degree, the Nara clan included, were pushed away however. The Kusanagi didn’t exactly know how to interact with others. Neither from a social or political standpoint. I recall at one point they even remarked that they should be able to enter Nara lands and slaughter our deer for food and supplies. But! They would be so kind as to return the bones to us as tools or other such trinkets.” Shaking his head, the Nara continued, “As you are likely well aware, the deer are sacred to us. For them to blindly assume that a… ‘trade’ of such would be acceptable… well it showed us that they weren’t really a fit for the educated world.”

Listening to Shikamura, Hirasuke’s features betrayed his amusement. He wished partially and silently that he could have witnessed suchs particular meetings. Though he was aware on how ill Lord Uchiha thought of those northern nomads. When Shikamura explained the particular trade the Kusanagi proposed, the amusement disappeared. It was briefly replaced with genuine disbelief.
Shaking his head lightly, a soft sigh escaped Hirasuke before he spoke.
”I suppose that it just wasn’t meant to be. My apologies, Lord Nara. I hope sincerely that my curiosity for those oddities hasn’t brought up any foul memories.” Pausing for a mere second, Hirasuke would flip to speaking Yakimara.
”If it is easier or more to your liking, we can converse in Yakimara. I must add that I have tried to get rid of my accent. But to no avail, sadly. My tutor did come from the Yakimara heartlands. Would you be so kind to perhaps describe that land with your own words? Just to already reveal what beauty will await me and my visit?”

Waving his hand to dismiss any fears that Hirasuke had brought up unpleasant memories, Shikamura smiled. “There is certainly no need to worry about that. Those memories were some time ago and things certainly fixed themselves. Now it is more a mix of mild disbelief and amusement than anything.” When Hirasuke switched to Yakimara, Shikamura’s smile widened and he nodded again. “You continue to impress Master Uchiha,” he chuckled, responding in Yakimara, “your accent is not nearly as pronounced as some who have tried to learn our language. I must admit, it is an honour to hear that you have taken an interest in it. The Yakimara are nowhere near the size of the Taika or Chonobi and, as such, most tend to gravitate towards learning the other languages.”

Taking another sip as he wondered how to describe the Yakimara heartlands, Shikamura closed his eyes slightly, picturing home. “Our homelands are not as vast or industrialized as some other areas, especially near the heart of the Empire. Instead, we have tried to blend in a bit more with the nature that surrounds us. We build our structures in such a way that they feel more integrated with the trees and the land around them. Some of our settlements do show more of the advancements we’ve made and differ from the others, but for the most part we try and celebrate how far we’ve come while not forgetting where we started. Tell me, have you ever been to a house within the trees? One that is nestled amongst the canopies rather than simply resting on the ground?”

Appearing to be relieved, Hirasuke patiently listened to what Shikamura said. The remark on Hirasuke’s Yakimara caused the Uchiha to smile and once more lightly bow his head. He wasn’t sure what to think of, to live with nature surrounding him. For a moment, he wondered if the Yakimara had the desire to have more plants surrounding their home. A fascinating prospect, Hirasuke mused to himself.
”I can’t say that I ever had the pleasure, Lord Nara. Most homes that I have visited were rather, well,” Hirasuke flashed a smile, ”the ordinary homes, I suppose I can call them. Though it does intrigue me how your people have adapted so well. I would be most honoured and pleased to be able to visit such a home. If that would be possible.”

The smile stuck to Hirasuke’s lips as he paused for a moment.
”Much as I would be delighted to become part of this medical division you’ve proposed to her Majesty. An interesting concept that could reap a lot of benefits for the Empire.”

Pleased that Hirasuke did not seem dismissive of the Yakimara homelands, Shikamura nodded and smiled. “I would be happy to arrange such a visit.” When the conversation shifted to the medical division, the Nara’s smile grew. “Excellent. I must admit I was very happy to hear that most were in favour of such a division. It is not something that has seen as much dedication previously, though we feel very strongly that it will lead the Empire even further ahead of the other countries.” Taking another sip from his drink, Shikamura continued, “I would like to extend my apologies if I fumbled over any part of the proposal while trying to explain it. I fear my eagerness to put forward the option may have caused some miscommunication on my end. Are there any elements of the proposal I could perhaps clarify or provide more detail on?”

”Apologies accepted, Lord Nara,” Hirasuke replied, ”I don’t think I would have approached it in any other way. Sadly, most clans tend to rather dedicate themselves to the glory of battle. Rather how to truly act as civilized people, I fear.”
Considering that Shikamura offered to shed some light on the suggestion, Hirasuke wouldn’t hesitate to ask what he was wondering about.
”Ah yes, I was most wondering how you were planning to establish such a medical organisation. You state that this should give us a certain edge over our neighbours. So it is much like the name states, orientated on military benefits? Or have you considered to apply it to civilian life?”

“I am glad you asked,” Shikamura began, “the answer is that we’d like to be able to focus on both.” Realizing that the answer was a bit vague, Shikamura took another sip of his drink before continuing, “As you’ve identified, there are many who only know how to focus on the ‘glory’ of battle. As such, there will always be some need to find newer, faster and more effective methods of treating those who engage in the more martial focuses. That is an area, however, that never seems to lack for funding.” Tilting his head slightly, the Nara met Hirasuke’s gaze. “I am hoping that we can expand upon that and put a focus on those who may typically go ignored, especially when there is not a medical center nearby. Whether that means establishing rural outposts with trained healers or simply dedicating additional resources into finding alternative medical options… If we were to focus on finding cures for common conditions or illnesses that have proven fatal to civilians, we would be able to advance the Empire leaps and bounds. Imagine the value of being able to extend a life, or cure a sickness that grows like wildfire? If the Empire had the means for such things, we could increase the dependencies that the other nations have on us.”

”On both?” Hirasuke repeated, intrigued by what would follow. Hearing out what Shikamura had to say, Hirasuke wondered if the Nara clan already was working ahead of others to try to come with more efficient means to treat wounds or sickness.
”That does sound quite beneficial, for all. Though I do fear that such a project would also be quite hefty in costs. Both financial as requiring all kinds of logistics and supplies. Have you by any chance considered that? For else, I am certain that my clan would be most pleased and eager to jump in to provide some aid in the department.”

Nodding solemnly as Hirasuke mentioned the costs associated with such an undertaking, Shikamura let out a sigh. “Unfortunately you are absolutely correct. Costs have been one of the main limiting factors in my clan’s efforts to develop these remedies. The hope is that the Empress will see the value in such developments and we can receive more funding to achieve the results we’re seeking.” When Hirasuke volunteered to provide some aid, Shikamura smiled once more. “That is most kind, Master Uchiha. We would be honoured to have the support of the Uchiha clan and, together, I imagine this project would go from being a mere dream to a highly successful reality.” Scratching his chin, pondering something, the Nara paused for a moment. “Perhaps we can discuss in further detail when you grace us with your presence in our heartlands?” he asked.

Hirasuke once more smiled at the Nara. ”I am assured that her Majesty will see the wisdom in supporting such a noble endeavour, Lord Nara. For now, you can rest assured as the Uchiha clan will support this project. Not to mention that I am sure that we can round up some talented people to further provide the required manpower for this.” The suggestion to discuss this further was fine with Hirasuke.
”Of course, Lord Nara. Then I will have time to convince Lord Uchiha as well see how much I can gather to support the initial stage of this project.”

Satisfied with Hirasuke’s response, Shikamura raised his glass. “I look forward to working with you,” he said, tilting his glass and taking a long sip. “With the support of the Uchiha I feel this will be a highly successful endeavor indeed.” Looking at his glass for a moment, it appeared it was nearly empty. Perhaps it was time for another, Shikamura thought. Glancing back towards Hirasuke, he smiled. “Thank you once again, Master Uchiha, for your most generous hospitality. I do not wish to take up more of your time as I imagine you are quite busy, but I did rather enjoy speaking with you. Please send Lord Uchiha my regards and I very much look forward to hosting both of you soon.” When he had finished, Shikamura lowered his head once more in a display of respect.
 
[ Kanazawa, Uchiha Heartlands - Empire of Akino ]
[ Imperial Gathering ]
[ A collab between @Jessie Targaryen and @Aliceee |
Sora Hanta approaches the Empress with two topics in mind. Due to the bad tact and not proper preparation, this exchange seem to only end badly as the Hanta reveal a grand mistake on their part. Not to mention a desire to present a plan that could use better timing. ]





So that meeting had most certainly gone… suboptimal. The man knew he would need to do much more practice and studying up on the other clans before he could expect a strong result. Making his way towards the Empress, the man had a matter that he felt needed to be brought up with the Empress sooner rather than later. Respectfully, he wanted for a chance to approach the woman before making a deep bow towards the Empress. ”I apologize for the intrusion, your Majesty, but I was wondering if you had a moment to discuss a rather important matter.” The young Hanta said as he awaited a response from Kiyomi that she would be interested in discussing said topic.

Finishing a talk with a dignitary, Kiyomi would turn as the Hanta heir approached her. The young monarch subtly nodded. “You may, yes. I am all ears,” Kiyomi responded. She was curious to what matter it would be. For during this and similar evenings, all matters were usually described as important or pressing.

”Thank you, your Majesty. I actually have two topics I wished to discuss. Though one I think certainly holds more weight than the other.” He said before looking around the other diplomats for a few moments as he seemed to think. ”For the more pressing matter, is there at all a chance we may speak more in private, even if we must wait until after the meeting? I do apologize for the request, but I feel the matter at hand is something that might be better discussed in a less public arena, and I do hope you might agree on this thought.” The man asked, leaving it unsaid that of course his second topic was something he would not mind discussing in such a public arena.

A frown appeared on Kiyomi’s brow when the Hanta stated he actually had two topics. One being so important that it was only for her ears. A wry smile crossed Kiyomi’s features as she gestured to the people that were close enough to hear them but not too close to mingle right away into their conversation.
“I would be a most rude guest if I were to ask other people to leave me alone. Not to mention, it is hard to gauge how important these topics are without knowing anything about them. Are you sure that there isn’t a third, before we continue?” Kiyomi politely replied in return, a friendly expression present on her features.
“Else, I would request to advance your topics, Master Hanta. There are a lot of important topics to be discussed.”

”My apologies, I did not think of that in advance.” The man said as he thought about how to proceed. ”The first of the two topics, I must humbly apologize for in advance. It seems a group of travellers from outside our borders entered Hanta lands and… slipped away. We have reason to suspect these individuals, and my father dispatched our forces after them. Unfortunately, some yet managed to slip away. For this failure, the Hanta apologize, and request of your Majesty the chance to redeem ourselves and continue our pursuit. With the leads we have gathered thus far, we believe it should be a relatively short order to track the rest of these individuals down. That is, of course, with your permission to allow our agents to operate and follow these potential threats wherever they may go.” He said, keep his voice low as he could, purposefully just loud enough that the young Empress could hear, but others would be straining to listen in. My father and I humbly request the chance to correct this error, and to fix this issue which could potentially spiral into something worse.”[/color] The man said, falling silent to hear her response, and already preparing to hear the worst. He felt it better to prepare for the worst and be pleasantly surprised than the other way around.

Kiyomi remained silent. At first, to just listen to what the first topic was going to be. Holding a glass, the young monarch would frown. Her lips slightly parted until she realised what the implication was.
At a rapid pace, the cheeks of Kiyomi started to flare red as her eyes became slightly darker - the jade green starting to lose some of its light. A soft crack could be heard as more pressure was applied to the glass that Kiyomi was holding.
A few sounds escaped the lips of Kiyomi, being more than furious attempts of making a cohesive sentence.
“Your father will hear of my anger. Your people will bleed,” Kiyomi hissed, the glass shattering as it fell to the ground. Before the young empress could lunge forward in her rage, an arm would wrap around her waist.
“You let spies enter?!” Kiyomi sneered, louder than before. If it weren’t for Kensuke’s interference, it was more than likely that the Empress would have attempted to scratch or punch the face of Sora Hanta. The sheer anger was nearly tangible as some distance was created.
It wasn’t getting any better when it became clear that Kensuke wouldn’t let his arm go, even despite the soft sneers at his address.

After a few tense seconds, Kiyomi closed her eyes and seemed to grow less agitated. Slowly she was being released as servants rushed in to tend to the fallen glass. While Kensuke announced that a small accident occured, Kiyomi gaze once more landed on Sora.
“Your lord father will not be allowed to pursue these ‘individuals’. I want all the information you have on them. The price for this failure will hang above you and your family until I see a chance for your clan to redeem yourselves.”
In a facade of seeming to have calmed down, Kiyomi briefly fixed her attire. Though the anger was still present as a soft undertone in her voice. Her left hand trembling slightly didn’t do much either to conceal her emotions.
“The second topic?” The question came out as a forced attempt of politeness, mixed in with a barely concealed aggression.

Somehow, things had managed to go even worse than he expected when he addressed the Empress about the problem. And that, was certainly saying something seeing as his expectations in telling the Empress the news had been… rather pessimistic. Sora moved back just the slightest, as it seemed the Empress was about to lash out. As she was a warrior, and he most certainly was not one. She was right, however, it had been nothing more than a flat-out failure on the Hanta’s part, and Sora had hoped to make some amends. Yet, that seemed to not be the case. When she asked about his second topic, Sora was truly not certain how to proceed. The second topic was one he probably should have led with, instead of saving for second. Though at the same time, he knew it would likely be an insult to the Empress to not present the second idea he had already mentioned.

”Yes, your Majesty. We will make sure all information is passed on. As for the second topic, I had wanted to put forward the idea of a festival, to try to promote one Akinian culture. Celebrating the different clans which make up Akino. To hopefully promote a bit more unity.” The man said, a bit embarrassed as he had been hoping to suggest this on a better footing.

The simmering anger that still was present in Kiyomi’s system did little to help her mind to progress the idea fully. It took more than some focus to not return to the previous topic or trying to lash out at the Hanta in front of her.
Upon hearing the Hanta wanting to suggest something to celebrate Akinian culture, Kiyomi’s eyes narrowed. Her tone gained a tone sharp enough to cut.
”I will not yet decide on this. For while you keep preaching this and that about Akinian culture, you or your clan hasn’t yet been willing to protect that idea. Instead of denying this right away, I will bestow you with some advice and a chance, Hanta,” Kiyomi said, her voice radiating some almost tangible cold, ”If you value your hide, you will remove yourself for now from my sight. And next time, you actually come with more than a concept. It is one thing to fail me but to come with a half baked idea afterwards?”
Her expressions said enough, the pure disgust quite visible as she waved him away.

Things definitely could have gone a bit better than they were currently going. The Hanta having intended to explain his proposal a bit more, but the message was more than clearly received by the Empress. The man politely bowed his head in response. ”Yes, your Majesty. Once again, I apologize for my people’s failure.” He said, before removing himself from Kiyomi’s sight as she had just suggested he do, not wanting to stick around and risk her ire even more than he had provoked thus far.
 
[ Kanazawa, Uchiha Heartlands - Empire of Akino ]
[ Imperial Gathering ]
[ A collab between @Aliceee and @Nim | After his talk with Lord Tamiyo, Resu Senju decides to approach Kiyomi, who had just gone through her talk with the Hanta representative. Their talk, while brief, offers something that the Empress did not expect. ]




After the intriguing talk he had with the Tamiyo, Resu had some things to ponder upon. It felt as though the entire meeting had made things very clear on how many of the clans viewed the Senju now. They were viewed as people who lost their prestige, some respect and even viewed as incapable. He knew well his own words had served into the latter, but the Hanta had caused those words to continue coming. And yet, there was still more he knew he could do here. Glancing towards the Empress, Resu went and approached her slowly, coming to a stop a couple of steps away and then offering a deep bow.
”Your majesty.” He said, before raising from his bow ”Could I take a few moments of your time? There are a number of topics I wished to discuss with you.” Resu asked politely. He knew that Gakuro had wished to discuss some things with Kiyomi himself, so Resu elected to stick to the topics he felt should be addressed sooner than later.

Kiyomi threw a look at the Senju dignitary. She wasn’t really feeling in the mood to continue this evening anymore. While her anger had simmered enough down that she could keep up a facade, she was annoyed and frustrated. The mere fact that some foreign rival power had managed to sneak in spies was the equivalent of losing a game that she considered herself good at. Not the best analogy, she mused to herself as she faced the Senju.
“Master Senju,” she began, her voice polite and respectful, “of course. I am listening,” she responded. Though she smiled, it was more wry than warm.

Nodding, Resu offered a reassuring smile ”I have noticed what occurred before, and the topics I wish to discuss with you should all be viewed in a positive manner. Of course, you may end up feeling otherwise, in which case I will apologize in advance.” He said, taking a sip from his glass, before continuing ”The first topic I wished to discuss is the same I brought up during the meeting. Offering supplies and more to the Imperial army. Even if my suggestion that all should do so was dropped by me, the Senju still wish to provide further supplies to the army.” He said with a firm nod.

”Even if it may be deemed redundant by the others, I believe that you will find use for those supplies. And I believe those supplies may be useful now more than ever, with how we have so many forces in the east. They require plenty of supplies, to be able to keep at the job they do ever so bravely.” Resu said. He truly believed there would be a need for those supplies during these times, and perhaps even later on. Who knew how the Empire would come out of this after all. Perhaps they would gain further land, or potential allies that could be helped to secure alliances. Looking at Kiyomi, Resu hoped she would understand the sentiment behind this.

For a moment, Kiyomi doubted if it was going to be positive. Knowing that she shouldn’t act as a sourpuss in front of other clan dignitaries and leaders, she would listen first. The first topic wasn’t too bad. But she wondered how much supplies the Senju were going to send. And what they desired in return.
“Those supplies would be gratefully and gracefully accepted. The realm won’t forget the Senju support in this matter, Master Senju.” Kiyomi responded with, deciding to not name it charity yet. For this was just the first topic that the Senju emissary presented.

Nodding, Resu took a sip from his drink once more before speaking ”The second topic I wished to discuss is the absence of my clan leader and mentee, Lord Gakuro. You were probably aware that he has not been the head of the clan for long now. The two of you are relatively close in regards to how long you each held your respective leaderships. Unfortunately, the past year has not been good with the young Lord Senju. Between his aspirations to see the clan go back to its former glory, his upcoming marriage, and his own insistence on handing every topic that came across him,” Resu sighed before continuing ”It has taken a toll on his body. For the past couple of months, he has been secluded in his home, resting and for the majority of it, not informing anyone. He did not wish to worry anyone, even you, who he considers to be a friend, along with his Empress.”

Realizing it was beginning to sound all bad, Resu offered a reassuring smile ”But things are looking up. All the rest Gakuro had taken so far allowed his body to begin recovering, and the medical staff that looks after him had informed me they expect him to make a full recovery within a month. So by the time the next meeting comes around, you will see him once more, if not sooner.” The Senju representative said, now offering a nod along with the smile, hoping the sound of things looking up for Gakuro might help ease the tone he had just presented.

Kiyomi’s lips nearly curled down when Resu began that Gakuro was sick. Truth be told, she didn’t really see Gakuro as a friend. A valuable and somewhat trustworthy political ally? Yes. But a friend or being actually close? Not really.
Yet it, the mere fact it was just following up bad news seemed to irk her further. Before Kiyomi could ponder on what kind of bad news she would receive next, Resu explained that Gakuro was recovering from the stress and pressure he was experiencing.
“That is good news. I can lend some of my physicians to aid Lord Senju’s recovery, if it is desired,” Kiyomi decided to offer, “his presence would be greatly appreciated with the next Imperial gathering of clans. In any case, do make sure that he receives my best wishes.”

”The offer is deeply appreciated, your majesty. And I will pass along your best wishes.” Resu said with a nod. For a moment he looked at the liquid in his glass, appearing to ponder on something, before fixing his eyes on Kiyomi again.
”The next topic I wanted to bring up is the one regarding what had recently occurred to the Senju. It is not a request for aid or such, as some others will likely suspect. The Senju leadership are well aware of the weaknesses we have gained over the years, but we were simply too quick to disregard them. This recent occurrence was a wake up call through and through. Someone came into our lands, ravaged the livelihood of too many, and managed to flee before we finally took action. It just shows our ignorance to how things really were. But no more.” Resu said, sounding firm in his belief in his own words ”We have already begun taking actions. Not just for what happened, but to improve overall. Just like Gakuro, the whole leadership now looks to improve the state of our clan. Ensuring the security of our people, that their livelihood won’t be harmed, is one step. Another is regaining the prestige we once had and appeared to have lost.”

Resu took a sip from his drink before continuing ”I can go on, but I believe the idea should be clear. The Senju won’t just stand idly from the side anymore. We will regain the place that is rightfully ours. And as we grow, so will the Empire. So this is not a request of any sort, but rather a statement.” Resu spoke with a resolute tone.
After a moment, he continued ”With that said, once peace returns to the Senju clan lands, I wish to offer some Senju forces as reinforcements for the Imperial army. I am no military leader, never have been, so I do not know where it would be best to send them to or where to utilize them, but I do believe that in these times, where our forces are spread across the way it is, we cannot stand idly aside. So this too will show the Senju are taking a more active role now.” Resu finished speaking before putting his now empty glass aside, on a passing waiter’s serving plate. He looked at Kiyomi, waiting to see what she might have to say about his little speech.

Hearing out the following topic, Kiyomi’s right eyebrow subtly perked up. Her curiosity was piqued. The fact that the Senju had been dealing with attacks was indeed something she learned later. And it made sense why it had continued with Gakuro being sick, unable to deal with the situation properly.
As Resu continued, Kiyomi had expected the dignitary to request Imperial aid - something she wouldn’t like for one bit. But when Resu began to state that his clan was willing to raise forces, to serve as reinforcements, Kiyomi remained silent. She wanted to argue that the Senju should first mind their troubles at home, rather than to follow the Omari and bankrupt themselves. Yet, there was something that raced through Kiyomi’s mind that made her more accepting of the idea.
“Interesting. And how many forces in total is the Senju willing to field for the Empire? The only theater of war that requires additional troops might be the eastern continent,” she responded in turn, “I will need to state that your clan will need to coordinate this likely as well with the Lord Commander himself.”

”I believe the number of forces the Senju are willing to field for the Empire to be over ten thousand. I do not recall the exact number, but I will ensure the military leaders of my clan will properly coordinate things with the Lord Commander. And I will further say that not all of the troops will be expected to remain under the Senju’s leadership. As a further step towards showing support for the Imperial Army, I will request that some of our forces be permanently moved to the ranks of the Imperial army. A step I hope sounds acceptable to you, your majesty.” Resu said, not looking away from Kiyomi as he answered the questions he was given. It was a pleasant change of pace, as it felt like a more one-sided conversation for a while there.

Upon hearing how many forces the Senju were willing to field, for the benefit of the Empire, Kiyomi was once more surprised. To the point that her features briefly betrayed her, revealing it. She briefly wondered how this would affect the whole matter, for this was no small number of forces or manpower. More likely, this would impact the actions of other clans as well.
“You and your clan got my blessing for this endeavour. I am certain that they will be welcomed on the eastern continent, to aid with the ongoing conflict. I expect to hear more from this from the Lord Commander, once this is all arranged.”

Seeing the surprise on Kiyomi’s expression was a pleasant sight for Resu. It only served to show him further just how little people have come to expect from the Senju in recent years. And he certainly hoped that with the shift in gears, that things will be looking up for the Senju once more ”Of course your majesty. And I will make sure Gakuro and the rest of the higher ups hear we have your blessing. We will work hard to ensure you will not be disappointed in the forces we will deploy.” He said, his expression becoming somewhat more relaxed ”With all of those covered, I believe I have covered all the topics I wished to discuss with you at this time. I won’t take away any more of your time, as I am certain more will wish to approach you. I hope you will have a pleasant evening from this point onwards, with no further bad news to bother you.” Resu said, offering a deep bow towards the Empress.

For reasons of her own, Kiyomi dearly hoped not too many were planning to approach her. Her mood was still far from pleasant. And there wasn’t any way to improve it. Subtly gesturing, Kiyomi would allow Resu to take his leave.
”Thank you, master Senju. I bid you enjoy yourself for the evening as well.”

Rising from his bow, Resu turned and walked away from the Empress. Even if the majority of the talk felt more one sided, the part he felt was the one that worried him the most managed to pass without so much as a hitch. He had even gained her majesty’s blessing, which was a bonus he did not expect. One he was sure would make Gakuro and the rest of the Senju leadership very happy. Thinking of this, he grabbed a drink from a passing waiter. Keeping his expression calm and collected now, he took a sip, before moving on with his evening.
 
[ Kanazawa, Uchiha Heartlands - Empire of Akino ]
[ Imperial Gathering ]
[ A collab between @ChromeHound and @Gerontis | Zakito and Jora meet each other at the event, discussing some of the gatherings of the Imperial clans. Having their exchange in their distinct language, the two clan leaders discuss their viewpoint on some matters before parting ways. ]



Zakito wasn’t that much of a fan of these events. He understood the necessity. But much like the military man in him, he prefered a more direct confrontation. Not the backhanded deals that were usually the happenings of these evenings.
There were a few people who he did seek out to have a decent conversation with. Not to mention his curiosity to see who would mingle with who. Not for the sake of gossiping but more to understand which clan was planning to interact with another. A lot of interesting combinations could be seen already.
Deciding to seek out one of the people he wanted to speak with, Zakito decided to look around and walk in a calm pace.
Spotting Jora of the Hyuzu clan eventually, Zakito didn’t take long to consider to approach the young man.

”Lord Hyuzu,” Zakito began, deciding to use Chonobi instead of Taika to interact, ”I hope you are doing well. I was wondering if you had decided to pay a visit to this evening gathering.”

Turning as he heard a familiar voice behind him, Jora smiled widely. “Ah, Lord Hon, it is good to see you again.” he responded in Chonobi. “There are a few people I was hoping to speak with and this event seemed to be the best opportunity to do so. I am glad to see you made it as well.” Truth be told, Jora had not been at the gathering for too long. There were only a few people he was hoping to have an opportunity to speak with but Zakito was always someone he would make time for. Despite being from a clan that had been rivals with the Hyuzu for most of their combined history, Jora viewed the man as someone he looked up to. The Hon had accomplished a lot, not the least of which was being a strong leader for his own clan; something Jora hoped he could live up to himself.

”The vices of such events as we find ourselves in hasn’t yet gotten to me, Lord Hyuzu,” Zakito responded in turn, not hiding his slight amusement. ”I am also glad to see you’ve made it as well. Certainly seeing the matters from the gathering itself.”
Waiting as a servant passed them by, offering some refreshments, Zakito would continue.
”I was hoping you would find some time in the next months to visit Magnhild. My kin are preparing for a Thing. We would be honoured to have you as honoured guests at the assembly, Lord Hyuzu. There are many activities bound to take place, aside from the necessary assembly duties.”

Politely declining the server’s offer of a refreshment when they passed - Elena had reminded him to watch his liquor intake after all - Jora listened closely as Zakito spoke. The invitation was a welcome one and the Hyuzu nodded, the warm smile still on his face. “We would be delighted to visit, Lord Hon,” Jora began, “I have heard many tales of Magnhild’s splendor and, to see it first hand would be an incredible honour indeed.” Thinking for a moment about what activities Zakito could be referring to, Jora wondered what the Hon did for fun.

“So,” he began, tilting his head slightly, “What were your thoughts on the meeting?”

A smile briefly touched Zakito’s lips for a moment, upon receiving an answer from Jora. When the latter asked for thoughts about the meeting, Zakito waited for a second before he responded. ”This was a fruitful one. I agree with most decisions that her Majesty has made in this meeting. I only wish that she had consulted me in regards to that new unit. I can’t say I see much use for it or that the current leadership for it will bring much good to the table,” Zakito stated calmly. ”Other than that, I am quite content with how the meeting has proceeded. The lack of drama and excitement is for sure, a nice change of pace. May I inquire what your thoughts are regarding the meeting?”

“The new unit is rather… interesting” Jora said slowly, scratching his chin. “I’m not sure I see it garnering the same level of success that they are hoping for. I suppose time will tell, though the Hyuzu will continue to focus on providing support for the military and providing security for our own lands.” His thoughts traveling back to the rest of the meeting, Jora paused for a moment. “Aside from a few points, it seemed to go rather smoothly. I did find it interesting that some of the smaller clans appear to be trying to do more, which is a welcome sight for the most part. Not everyone will follow through, I’d imagine, but if they are truly loyal, I wouldn’t mind sharing some support for those who expressed the desire.”

”I rather have time not even deem it necessary to tell us. It is a waste of resources and time,” Zakito stated, well aware that he was repeating his opinion. ”And ah, yeah. If you are in need of any aid, do let me know. I wouldn’t accept anything else than see the best being utilized for your clan.”
The comment of Jora that the smaller clans seemed more inclined to do something, making the gathering more interesting was something that Zakito agreed with.
”I think it is a good change of pace. But it might be me but I am cautious. It might turn into a development where the bigger clans will try to influence the smaller clans that grow some successes of their own.”

Nodding his head, Jora smiled when Zakito offered some support. “We always appreciate the support of the Hon, though in this case I am hoping we can hold our own. Wouldn’t want to wind up like the Hanta, hmm?” Glancing towards the area there had been some slight commotion, Jora turned back to Zakito. “And you’re right. That is entirely possible, especially considering some clans will lack the means to support themselves for too long. They may become reliant on the larger clans and that could lead to some shifting in power. Something that would be less than ideal...” Pondering for a moment, Jora glanced around the room. “Seeing as we just recently came into some money, courtesy of her Majesty, I’d been considering supporting one or two of the clans who received a fiefdom. If we can ensure they aren’t reliant on the other clans, then we can help guarantee their loyalty to the Empress instead.”

The mentioning of the Hanta caused Zakito to throw a look at where things seemed to have heaten a bit up. He was most curious about what had caused glass to shatter and to see the expressions of various people speak about a commotion of the highest degree.
”Let us indeed hope that won’t happen,” Zakito said, a disarming smile crossing his lips. ”And would you be willing to share which clan you are going to support financially, Lord Hyuzu?” Zakito decided to ask. ”Not that I intend to support any of them yet. For first I need to ensure that matters in my own heartlands are doing fine. I don’t want to give my kin and clan the wrong idea, after all.”

“Well,I would still like to speak with a few of them individually to get a better gauge of what they are planning. Going just off what they said in the meeting wouldn’t necessarily be the wisest decision.” Shrugging, Jora continued, “I must admit though, of the smaller clans that spoke, the Arkos caught my attention the most. I’m not overly familiar with Amegakure or its clans, but I would be interested in learning more. The Riojin are also one I’d be interested in speaking with, though it appears the Tamiyo already had some… ideas… for them.”

”Speaking with them doesn’t seem like a bad idea. Better to know what you’re working with than to plunge in the unknown.” Zakito agreed. ”I will admit that I am familiar with some clans that hail from the region. But only much by name and who is in charge. Top on that, those that only got some renown. Many of them have stayed away from attention for quite some time. Though I do agree that it is very likely that some Rain clans are already starting to get a benefactor of some sorts.”
There was the part that Zakito didn’t entirely like. Many of those clans were of Taika descent. And while he didn’t have anything against it, it seemed that it could threaten the current status quo if a few clans started to try to climb higher.
”Perhaps you could arrange a meeting with some of them? Your clan could act as binding for some of the Rain clans. I am certain that many would be quite impressed and grateful for such kind of deeds.”

Catching Zakito’s hint, Jora nodded again. “I think that would definitely be quite wise. If the Hon have any interest in such a meeting, or with supporting some of the clans, please let me know. I’m sure with more of the Chonobi clans on-board we could offer a lot of insight and help the smaller clans grow into their potential.”

”I thank you for the offer, Lord Hyuzu. I would love to offer aid. Perhaps once you have learned more about them, maybe we can discuss together where our resources could be invested best in.” Zakito replied. ”For now, I might need to see what occurred with her Majesty. Perhaps we can continue this talk during the tournament or afterwards if that would be to your liking.”

“That would be most enjoyable indeed, Lord Hon,” Jora smiled, “I hope all is well. Do let me know if there is any assistance I can offer.” Thinking on who else he would need to speak with, Jora glanced away for a moment before turning back. “Also, I forgot to mention. Best of luck at the tournament! It would be great to see a finale between the Hon and Hyuzu. If we are to be knocked out earlier, however, I’ll be cheering your champion on.”

”You shall be the first to receive such a request, Lord Hyuzu,” Zakito replied, a smile once more finding its way to Zakito’s lips. ”Best luck to your champion as well. I do hope that luck has us be able to view some entertaining matches.” Making a small and respectful bow with his head, Zakito would turn on his heels and start to make way towards Kiyomi.
 
Dirty Blades - Part 2
[ Eastern Continent | Wolf Country - northern front | Imperial Forces of the 11th Brigade ]
[ A collab of @Oblivion666 , @RedFox , @Aliceee , @FrostedCaramel and @Oetje | Send out on their respective task, Meilin leads her team to ambush a Rongese patrol. Though successful, the Rongese troops have a few tricks up their sleeve. Revealing that this mission won't be going entirely smooth or according to the anticipation of the Akinian operatives ]

[ Previous Part ]




Small pebbles slammed against her as she struggled to remain standing. A high pitched ringing filled her ears and the world seemed surreal for a few moments. Blinking, Meilin’s lips parted as she wanted to know if anyone of her team got caught up in the blast. But nothing but a pitch rang into her ears - overwhelming all sounds.
Attempting to stay balanced on her feet Meilin noticed how weird it was that she never had much struggles with it.
Blinking rapidly, the pitch slightly ebbed away.
Noticing a silhouette, Meilin struggled to move towards the person. Spotting that it was Mamoru, Meilin grabbed the Senju by the shoulder. With a gentle push, she wanted him to move.
They needed to get out of here.

When he saw Dagrún take the charge, a certain part of him did not want to follow, for it knew what was about to happen. Regardless of it, he did his part and ran forward. There was a slight stinging sensation in the hand that held the wire but he ignored it. As he got closer and closer to the Rongese unit, he could read the surprise on their faces. The closer he got, the more he wanted to stop, to give them at least a fighting chance.They would definitely not do the same for you, a brief though flashed through his mind. Gritting his teeth and clenching his jaw, he reached the department about at the same time as the entire squad. What followed will haunt the young Senju for years to come.

A grotesque cacophony of agonizing screams and hateful curses filled the air together with the body parts of brutalized Rongese soldiers. Flesh, muscles and bone had no chance to withstand their attack. Just as quickly as it started, the massacre was over. It seemed like an eternity, and yet as a fraction of a second to Mamoru, as his mind tried to wrap around what happened. He dropped the wire, his hand left with a slightly burning sensation, partially numb and fell on one knee. He raised his head and looked around at the bloodied ground that he could swear was crying due to the atrocity it just witnessed. He heard the dying grunts of agony, looked at dismembered, seared bodies. His breathing got out of control, coming in incredible fast, short and ragged gasps. He was quickly becoming lightheaded, but he could not stop what was happening to him. He could not take it anymore.

Mamoru threw up. He wiped his mouth into the sleeve of his outfit, but he could still feel the foul stench in his mouth and it was about to make him vomit again when a small explosion took place right next to him, from a mutilated corpse. The explosion was not severe in strength, but the resulting shockwave deafened him to the point that all he heard was a high pitched whistle. He reached for his right ear, only to feel a warm liquid on it - a quick glance revealed that it was blood, most likely from a burst eardrum. Explosion after explosion occurred around them and Mamoru somehow scrambled to his feet, shambling as his sense of balance was momentarily shattered. His shaky hand reached for the hilt of Oak, but except an incoming attack, he felt a hand on his shoulder, pushing him away from all the madness. Mamoru immediately submitted, going off in the direction he was pushed. The explosions suddenly faded away, leaving the group shambled in deafening silence.

The wire had been effective, to say the least. Moving her gaze from the destruction that had been wrought before them to the blonde Hon just a small ways from her Aoi released the wire in disgust as the moans of the enemy unlucky enough to have survived began to fill the soft winter air. She turned her gaze back to the aftermath of their trap and quickly rose to her feet, the sight before her beginning to overwhelm her as she quietly began to scratch incessantly at the strange feeling in her palms. She’d gotten no more than a heart beat or two into this when the dead and dying soldiers began to explode.

The first explosion tore her from her focus on her palms and shocked her so much she stumbled back falling to the ground with a surprised yelp. The ensuing explosions simply molded into one neverending assault of sound and dust. Aoi dragged herself away from the sight and sound of the explosions, terrified at what was happening as they continued, flinching at every deafening roar and flash of light. Then all at once it seemed over. She struggled to reign in her nearly hysterical breathing as she pulled herself to her feet with a nearby tree as support. Standing unsteadily she watched as her teammates gathered themselves around her. Clutching at the tree she forced a step away from it and then another until she was off in the direction that Meilina was prompting Mamoru in. Her steps became more steady as she neared the pair.

Even as the trap worked, Dagrún’s anger started to rise to a whole new level. This was perhaps necessary but she loathed the mere fact that there was nothing that she could to prove her skill. The fact that the enemy should fear her and her kin. That they had a good reason to be cautious and whimper by the mere mentioning of Ylfing.
But that anger was briefly replaced by confusion and surprise. The sequences of explosions caused Dagrún to expand her lightning to try to shield herself as much as possible.
Once the explosions started to die off, Dagrún frowned as the dust had to fall down. For a moment, the Hon was unsure what to do or think. She was puzzled about what had just occurred. Why had that happened? Had the enemy hoped to send their own soldiers to take Imperials with them to the afterlife?

Spotting the others starting to head off to a certain direction, Dagrún wanted to jog towards them. But her eyes widened as she realised something. Her right hand was trembling.
Cursing herself softly, Dagrún bit her lower lip and had to mentally push herself to try to catch up with the others.

An odd silence followed the explosions as the team tried to rally. The stink of the charred corpses and their equipment would soon be joined by another phenomenon. From the air itself, casks would start to descend without any sense of warning against trees and on the ground.
Smacking against branches and trees, the casks would reveal a troubling surprise as the liquid inside would catch fire.
While not accurate, the danger was within the large numbers of breakable casks that started to rain down on the area.

If the explosions weren't enough to set off warning bells, but the bombs being dropped from the sky was sure to do it. Madoc was on his way to rejoin the others when said bombs cut him off from them and he had to avoid the area of fire. As he was running though, a cloaked figure popped from the tree line. Madoc grabbed for his dagger then stopped when he realized it was one of those Gwade Rangers. They motioned for Madoc to follow and then pointed at where his group was running towards. He simply nodded and followed with the Gwade Ranger which turned out to be a couple of them.

As Meilin and the others were running. A hand popped out from the tree followed by Kazumo’s head. If they looked around, they would also spot several of the Gwade Rangers as well. He motioned for them to follow as he wanted them all out of this area of fire before they could discuss what would happen next. He already knew that Orun’s squad was also under fire but was at least thankful Team Four wasn’t returning fire on them right away.

His sense of balance was finally returning and for a moment it seemed that they were out of the worst. He looked around him and managed to count all the members of his team. Both Dagrùn and Aoi looked alright, but shocked from the events that just took place. Turning his head slightly, he also saw Madoc heading towards them. Mamoru was about to flash a faint smile towards Aoi when the caskets started to fall from the sky, igniting the ground itself despite the snow cover. Even standing a few meters away from it, he slightly felt the heat on his exposed skin. The team scattered quickly, desperately seeking cover from the fiery rain of caskets. Biting down so hard he felt his jaw going numb as he headed out in a way Meilin he saw the Gwade Rangers were moving, thankful for them being on their side.

The rain of caskets upon the area would come to an eventual halt. As the Imperials would start to retreat, the bombardement would seem to focus on the particular area for a while. Then an eerie silence started to return to the area, save it for the sparse vegetation here and there suffering some burns.

The arrival of the Gwade Rangers was a pleasant surprise, in Meilin’s opinion. She kept an eye out for Mamoru, while advancing away from the location that was under heavy bombardment. Once it seemed that they were either out of range or the enemy stopped making it rain fire upon them, Meilin blinked several times. Placing her hands on her knees, she stared at the ground while trying to get the screeching pitch in her ears to further stop.
Once the high pitched nuisance started to subdue, Meilin threw a look around. She noticed Mamoru, Dagrún and Aoi right away. But her heart made a small jump upon the realization that Madoc was missing.
Now that the danger of the casks raining death upon them had also halted, Meilin turned to Kazumo. She was happy that he had shown up but also wondered if he had decided to trail them for no other reason than to babysit them.

”Seems that was a close one,” Meilin began, hearing something. Turning her head, she noticed that Madoc joined them, which made her mentally sigh, out of relief. Moving her attention back at Kazumo, she continued.
”Now with the enemy knowing that we are coming for them, seems that we need a change of plans, eh? Did the other team make it out? Or do you want us to move to another location while you guys are going to check on them?”

Dagrún first spat on the ground. An anger was building up that wanted to be unleashed at those squints, that were too cowardly to face them in the open. Glancing at Meilin that spoke with the Gwade Rangers, Dagrún took it upon herself to throw a look at Mamoru. The genin seemed alive, which was more than enough to satisfy Dagrún’s curiosity
Noticing that Madoc was missing, Dagrún whistled softly as she threw a look around. While Meilin seemed to exchange further with the Gwade Rangers, Madoc seemed to return with a few other Gwade Rangers.
”Ye made it out, ye lucky bastard eh?” Dagrún flashed a grin as she planted her fists on her hips. Throwing a curious glance at Meilin and the Gwade Rangers, she did decide to wait out what would be decided next.

Taking a few more steps with the Gwade Rangers, Mamoru rested his back against a tree while Meilin spoke to Kazumo. His chest was heaving rapidly and he allowed himself to close his eyes for a few seconds, trying to push the surreality of the events that transpired into the back of his mind. Their squad slowly gathered as well, with everybody in various degrees of shock, exhaustion. But they were all standing, and that's what mattered in the given situation. They could use this time to catch their breath and think about their next steps. Despite the odds, he disliked the idea of giving up despite the overwhelming odds they faced. Then he heard Meilin talking with Kazumo about their next move and an idea popped up in his mind. Taking another deep breath, he stood up and walked up to the pair in charge discussing." Lieutenant Meilin! Sir, my apologies for speaking before you speak!” He gave Kazumo a brief look before continuing to speak."Now that they know we are here, we need to be beware of ambushes - but I think I have a way to mitigate their risk. My summon is a fox, an animal that can blend in here perfectly. He can help us locate the enemy waiting in ambush for us, or perhaps even help us pinpoint the location of their camp! I - just give the word and I'll get to it at once !” His breathing was still coming out in fast, ragged breaths, now enhanced by nervosity for speaking up in this manner.

Though not entirely sure when the Gwade Rangers had arrived during the bombardment, Aoi was more than relieved to be led from the hail of barrels to a far safer position. Leaning herself against a tree as Meilin and Kazumo walked off to discuss their next steps after the failed ambush, Aoi took a moment to focus on her breathing as she surveyed the group.

Most everyone was present, and though a couple appeared worse for wear than the others everyone seemed capable of fighting and only barely injured. As she looked over the group she did a double take as she pushed herself from the tree, looking through the Gwade Rangers intermingled with Meilin’s force as she felt a dread beginning to weigh heavily on her mind as she couldn’t find Madoc. Had he been caught out by the barrels? Was he injured and immobile back where they’d come from? What if the enemy found him and took him away? What then? She was about to start for Meilin when she saw another figure approaching the group and quickly felt the dread lift from her mind as she recognized the form of Madoc making his way through the Rangers. She sighed and pushed the overwhelming want to make her relief known away for the time being.

The bombardments would come to a halt unsure if they lost track of them or believed they killed them with that attack. Rejoining with the others with the Gwade Rangers going back on watch while the leaders spoke, he looked at Dagrun and chuckled. ”Looks like it, unless I lost another body part somewhere back there. Hard to tell. Would have thought you would have been a bit scorched with the enemies blowing up in front of you.” Madoc stated as he took the time they had for a little rest, had a feeling it was going to be more exhausting soon enough.

Once everyone was in a safe location and the bombs stopped, he looked at Meilin and was about to answer when Mamoru would cut in with a suggestion of his own. ”I like the drive but we should be patient with chakra usage right now. Once we come up with a plan though I may use that suggestion.” Kazumo said to Mamoru’s plan before looking at Meilin and shaking his head.
”Change of plans yes. Aiding the other team, no. In fact your team was smart and got out of the situation. I won’t lie, I had a couple Gwade Rangers watching over both teams. Call it an insurance policy in case some don’t listen to plans. I noticed the larger than normal moving parties so me and the others came back to attempt a regroup. Yet…. While your team got away from the danger, Orun decided to fight back and counter the bombs. Needless to say the enemy now is pinning them down more. Yet not by Cloaks. So because they want to be bait, they shall be bait. Your team and mine will work together to sneak around and take out the Cloaks who are most likely behind the bombardments to begin with. However that means traps up ahead most likely moved around as well so we need to be careful of that.”

Pausing for a bit he muttered a curse in Chonobi as he looked at Meilin. ”Is all of your team good to go? None injured?” he asked as he looked around. Everyone seemed alright, a bit shaken by the recent event. Some more than others.

Glancing at Mamoru, Meilin would let the Senju speak his mind. She wasn’t sure how viable the plan of the genin would be. But knowing from experience, she didn’t want to shut him down right away. When Kazumo responded, Meilin was thankful that he hadn’t decided to just swat the genin’s idea away.
Hearing more from Kazumo, Meilin clicked with her tongue. She wasn’t entirely opposed to sacrificing something to acquire a decisive victory over the squints and cloaks. But the fact was that they were likely expected to come out of it together.
”My team should be all good,” Meilin replied with a glance over her shoulder. She was a tad worried about Madoc but the Yamanaka seemed to still possess all his limbs. And there was no sign that any of her team was wounded.
”I do have a suggestion myself now though. Seeing that we are no longer under bombardment that means a few things. They can only bombard us when they get a signal. Or when a large volume of chakra is being detected, like I suspect what happened with the explosions before.”

Crouching down, Meilin pulled out a knife to detail where the enemy camp roughly was located and then their positions.
”If you are to sneak towards the cloaks and try to take them out with my team, we will need to figure out our approach. My team can survey the area first. Then my Yamanaka buddy can relay information back to you. I might even try to get into contact with Orun. Let the enemy think it is only one group that is moving against them.”
Carving into the snow, she would detail the pincering movement from three sides.
”If we attack from three angles, it reduces the pressure from each team. And we won’t deal with any complaints afterwards that we were about to sacrifice an allied team.”

She was being more rational than he was, he had to admit. One of the things he probably had to learn was not letting other’s fuck ups lead him to instantly thinking they were only good for bait. Kazumo would listen to her suggestion and it was good, but only downside of it was that Orun’s group was under fire because of retaliation. Things might be more hard pressed on that group, Meilin’s group relaying back with them might be helpful but puts them in danger too. ”It certainly could work, no more heavy uses of chakra though. If they are searching then I don’t need you all getting bombed again. If they do fire upon you, don’t return fire. Yet only way I’ll agree to this is if you promise not to help Orun’s group, only if they are still under large bombardment. In fact I can give you one of the Gwade Ranger’s. They are able to conceal their presence so they can sneak in and get to Orun and relay the information better.”

Kazumo sighed as he motioned for the Gwade Rangers to look at the plan Meilin drew out. ”Do have him relay any new information when you find it out, I’ll do the same. Hopefully his group has wisened up and is being quiet for now. They should roughly be around this area.” Kazumo would then with one of his arrows mark where Orun’s position should roughly be. ”Granted that is if they didn’t decide to trudge through the bombardments while fighting back.”

The runner was not needed, for Meilin would feel the consciousness of the dragon touch hers gently, as if to warn her of his impending mental intrusion. Without further introduction the dragon spoke simply to her. ”Orun’s team has encountered heavy resistance during their ambush. One team member is dead. Aiko Hon has taken command and the team is holding for now. What does your team plan to do? I will relay the information back to Orun.”

Listening to Kazumo’s reply, Meilin nodded to emphasis that she listened and agreed with most of it. She had no qualms about helping the likes of Orun’s team. If anything, she wagered that her team would have its hands full on doing their objective.
When Kazumo started to instruct one of the Gwade Rangers, Meilin decided to rise up and take a step back.
Frowning, Meilin waited a second. She didn’t like the intrusion and wanted to shrug it off. Yet, the odd resonation of the dragon’s voice in her mind was hard to play off as a mere play of the wind. More so when the beast gave a name.
”Kazumo, I got someone… something,” Meilin began as she then realised how idiotic it would sound. Hesitating for a second, she decided to just go with it.
”I got Orun’s dragon pet in my mind. Want me to relay the plan to it?” She asked, only to throw a glance at the sky before back at Kazumo. ”It also states Aiko Hon is with the group. I am not entirely sure if it is Lady Cho he means or some Aiko.” Meilin finished, shrugging her shoulders as she wasn’t able to really say for sure herself.

As Kazumo was about to get ready to get the plan going, Meilin stopped him and told her something that made him stare at her. Just the look of was she being serious and when she didn’t say anything, he rubbed his face. Then she said that he stated that Aiko Hon was with their group which only further caused him to rub his forehead.
”He summoned…. his fucking dragon? Of course he did, and of course he got Aiko to come…..” He just took a deep breath in and exhaled.
”Sure tell him the plan, tell the pet to also stay away from us. Rather not have a possible massive beacon.” Kazumo stated as he started walking only to stop as if he had something on his mind. Yet at this point he didn't bother to ask why the pet contacted Meilin and not him but frankly he didn't want to even hear from Orun or his pet right now.

Returning the look of Kazumo with a blank stare, she waited for him to answer her questions. Judging by how he responded, she had a hunch he too thought Lady Cho had come to the area of operations.
”Alright, you can report to your master the following,” Meilin began as she explained the beast what the plan was. Once done, Meilin threw a look at her team before back at Kazumo.
”As planned, my team will then move out. Just need to know what signal you intend to use to let us know that we can launch the attack.”

The dragon was patient, although it was flying high enough that it probably wouldn’t be noticed it still did not wish to stick around. Once the plan would be explained it would turn and fly back.
 
Dirty Blades - Team Orun Pt. 1
Location: The East
@Lesli @Jessie Targaryen
Summary: After receiving his orders Orun's team deploys. Following the mission parameters they engage the Rong near the traps, but all does not go well in the ambush. A new plan is quickly formed in the aftermath and the team sets out to execute it.


Laying prone in woods, Orun carefully watched the area in front of him. Spread out to the left and right, spaced every fifteen meters or so, was the rest of the squad. They had already identified traps in the area. A handful of pitfalls, a few cleverly disguised mace traps, and a number of deadfalls. It was really quite hazardous, unless of course they were spotted and disarmed carefully. After disarming the traps, they had spread out to watch the area and wait for any chinks to come check them. Using a whistle that sounded like a bird song, Orun would check and see if anyone else had heard anything while watching his lane still.

The girl was off to the right of Orun, having helped with spying the traps and disarming. Now, she was next to him laying prone and keeping an eye on her own lane with that critical eye she had picked up during scout training. While there were still most certainly others more trained than she, the Hyuuga felt she had still picked up a bit of skill. When she heard the whistle from Orun, she answered back in a similar whistle to indicate the all clear on her end. Then returned her attention to her lane and waited on any hint of… well, anything that didn’t belong. All the while she kept an ear out in case somebody else found something in their lane.

In the distance, some faint sounds could be heard. Conversations exchanged in a language unknown to the Akinians. Slowly but surely, a group would come into sight. From the looks of it, the band of men seemed to fit the description of enemy soldiers. Their equipment being on the equivalent wouldn't be accepted by even the carefreest of Akinian officers. Their formation being far from tight and showing a lack of discipline.
The group of around fifteen soldiers came to a halt. Most of them looked around - a likely indication that they had been alerted that allied forces could be operating nearby. Two Rongese soldiers would stride towards one of the traps.

Not a second later, an exchange would start. The tone and indication revealing some excitement or surprise.

Spotting the activity and conversations Orun gave a sharp double bird whistle call while slipping out a kunai from his pocket. The other shinobi, now alerted to the danger, were moving quietly to the best of their ability to wrap around the group of soldiers. They made use of the cover and moved quickly, preparing to begin an attack on the enemy. For Orun’s part, he began to creep closer to the enemy.

Hearing the whistle as she watched the group of enemies approaching, the girl knew it was time to get moving. Slowly, she used the natural cover of the area to creep away from the enemy. Finding a sizable enough tree with a convenient brush next to it where she could stand to a crouch without being easily seen. She had a very clear sight line straight between the trees to keep an eye on the two enemies striding towards the traps. Slowly, she pulled her bow and nocked an arrow, waiting for the signal to let it fly.

As the Rong troops continued to speak, the shinobi crept closer, each one slowly taking up position. Incognito signals were given to Orun from each that they were ready to spring the trap. Jumping up, Orun threw two kunai in rapid succession aimed at the throats of the Rong near the trap. The other shinobi followed suit, aiming for the enemies nearest to them, before Orun and all the shinobi jumped up and charged with weapons drawn.

Gurgling sounds escaped the targets of Orun’s kunai. The steel of the kunai biting through skin and flesh initiating, at first, surprise and disgust from the present Rongese soldiers. With the appearance of the Akinian shinobi, surprise was quickly replaced by eagerness for bloodshed and violence.
Despite the outcome being clear that the quantity of the Rongese wouldn’t easily overcome the quality of the Akinians, no hesitation was spotted among the enemy.
What swiftly changed the course for a decisive victory for the Imperials would be when an Akinian shinobi under Orun’s leadership stabbed a Rongese in the stomach. The dying Rongese clenched the hand of the Akinian as a grin spread over his lips.

Within a moment an explosion occurred. Flesh would be ripped apart by the violent wave of energy, that tore apart both the Rongese as the Akinian shinobi. Only a bloody husk of either combatants remained, dropping to the ground as a horrible stench spread from the burnt flesh and hair.

Orun kept fighting through the explosion. He had focused on two enemies in front of him. It took a moment to disarm and kill one by shoving his sword through their throat, however seeing what happened to the shinobi he back pedaled and threw another kunai at the throat of the other. ”BACK UP, DISENGAGE!” Were his orders to the shinobi in the fight already. To fight them in close combat would mean death for his team and he wasn’t about to allow that. For now they’d have to make an effort to get some range between them and attempt to use it for the better.

The girl was caught in complete shock as the enemy suddenly exploded and took their ally with him. For a moment she just crouched there, stunned at the sudden explosion before Orun gave his command and that shook her from her stupor. As their allies began to comply with his order, Tomiko adjusted her aim to put an arrow down towards an enemy closest to one of their allies, intending to stop him before he caught the soldier. From her point further back, she had a few moments to fire off two more arrows towards the next closest enemies, covering her allies before she had to start pulling back into it’s the rest of her allies.

The air was rippled with shockwaves as the Rongese soldiers were felled. While the Akinians withdrew, the Rongese were clear of intent to not let their quarry leave with impunity. The arrows of Tomiko found their mark, taking the life of the enemy.
While the Imperials were attempting to disengage, followed by their enemy, something particular would start to fall down the sky.
Without any warning to herald its arrival, a cask would descend close to the Imperial formation. Upon breaking, the violent clash would unleash a small incendiary explosion of some sorts. Within seconds, more casks started to descend upon the area - inaccurate but with a certain deadly quantity.

”Fuck, no choice.” It was already quite clear that the Rong knew of their attack and were prepared for it, so there was no real harm in utilizing jutsu. Meanwhile the other shinobi nearby tossed down smoke bombs, the whole area lighting up in smoke as they ran at speed. Orun formed several handseals and a large cloud like soot expanded into the area that the Rong occupied. He was about to launch his secondary technique to ignite it, however the incendiary cask landed, and the cloud of powder exploded. With that in line he turned and ran, dropping a smoke bomb behind him as well. He needed to make contact with the other teams and inform them it had gone pear shaped in his area.

”Fuck me.” The girl complained softly to herself as she turned to run from the exploding casks falling from the sky. Seeing her allies throwing smoke bombs to cover their retreat, the young Hyuuga did the same. Then turned and ran as hard as she could to keep up with her allies and get away from the area that was being bombed to hell.

The barrage continued, the casks continuing to rain violence on the area. What seemed to be a momentary break, was nothing more than either a ruse or the enemy needing to adjust their radius. Within mere moments, the sky started to fill up with dots that started to descend upon the direction that the Akinians were heading off to. The smoke preventing a clear sight on the Akinians retreating but neither allowing the Imperials to see the casks falling. The shattering of the pots and the ignition that followed would fill the air for a while.
As Orun’s unit would retreat further away, the barrage would come to a halt.

Once they were sure they were clear Orun would rally his unit. The loss put him one down, but there were also various minor injuries as a result of the exploded casks and combat. The only one that seemed unhurt was himself and the Hyuuga. He considered his options for the moment before turning to one of the other team members. They weren’t equipped for ranged combat really and the enemy were exploding upon death. ”Tomiko and I will sneak back and keep an eye on the squints to see what they do for now. One of you will fall back to the camp. Inform them of what happened and then return quickly. Go.” The chosen shinobi ran off at pace. He turned to the rest now. ”Do not engage them unless you are engaged. We’re strictly observing now. Standard tactics if we are attacked, smoke bombs and bomb tags. Let’s move.” With that much said the group would advance into the area once more, sticking to trees and cover to attempt to not be noticed. Orun figured they should at least be in the area for as long as the operation was underway.

Within a hour or so, the shinobi that had send back would return. Only accompanied by a single person to reinforce Orun’s unit. With no bombardement going on and the situation not looking too bright, the new reinforcement would link up with Orun.
”I heard that the situation got a tad hairy,” Aiko stated as she hooked a thumb behind her belt. Seeing the scorched area where the casks had fallen earlier, her expression remained blank. ”So, what is you want to do next?” The Cho asked, the question followed by the woman crossing her arms out front of her chest.

Slipping back upon receiving word that the Cho had arrived, Orun would speak. ”Oh good it’s you. I was afraid they might send someone… less experienced.” Orun looked as though he had been pondering the question himself for some time. ”They are alert to our attacks at the moment, but they don’t know where we are exactly. The other teams had their own objectives and we never were told to support the main push into their camp however…” Orun looked back at the scorched area. ”For now I think it would be wise to keep their focus here. If the fire bombs are falling in this area it means it isn’t falling on the force attacking the camp. Your thoughts?”

Aiko considered what Orun stated. Once more she shot a look at the area that was affected by the casks that had rained down. Judging by what the messenger had stated, it had occurred after a skirmish and continued until Orun’s last technique had simmered down. Clicking with her tongue, Aiko pointed at the area where they had fallen back from initially.
”I think that may be the case. We can’t really know that for sure. But if you want to create a distraction, then it is clear they are scanning the area for chakra activity to pin-point their attacks.”
There was a brief wondering what Kazumo had planned for this operation and how the other two detachments were doing. Suppressing her curiosity for now, Aiko continued.
”We can try to keep their attention here. But without knowing how much they can spare to bombard an area, it might be too much of a risk and not gain anything. I think it might be wiser to relay contact with the other teams.”
Considering the use of the earphone communicators, Aiko figured that it was not the brightest idea. Those devices worked on chakra, so that could only betray everyone’s location.

”I will command this unit for now. Fall back a good distance. Then summon your dragon. Your dragon can relay matters with you, can’t it?” Aiko asked, offering a friendly smile as she asked her questions, ”If it can, you can return and we use your dragon as a medium to communicate between us and hopefully another team.”

Orun nodded simply. ”Aye, I’ll go summon him now. It won’t take long.” Without anything else he snapped around on his heel and then moved off at pace, making sure to get far enough away that the summoning would not be noticed, before making the handseals to summon Tireo. The dragon was quickly caught up to speed through their mental link and then lifted into the air at pace, black scales catching the light as he took flight. Orun then returned to Aiko. ”Alright, Tireo will let me know when he links up with the other team. Hopefully no one is jumpy…”

”Good,” she only responded with. She doubted that Kazumo was jumpy and would resort to panic tactics. But she wasn’t entirely familiar with Team 4, save it for knowing a bit about their records and some of the cooperation before.
”Then for now, we have to figure out if they will react to your summoning as well,” Aiko continued as she briefly shot a look at the sky. ”Seeing it is easy to spot, I figure it might change their game a bit. Luckily, I wager that you and your dragon can predict where the bombardements are coming from. So there is that,” the jounin turned her attention back at Orun. ”Though, I suppose that we likely need to figure out what to do now. Got any ideas, sergeant?”

”Hmmm.” He crossed his arms. ”Why don’t we try and locate the artillery? The chinks think we are in the area, so why not use that to our advantage? We’ll make a bit of noise in a certain spot and let them target us with those bombs, then follow them back to their location and take it out. Though i’d wager it is probably near or in the main camp.”

”Yeah, I would love to take it out. But it is most likely as you stated in their camp or near it.” Aiko replied in turn, ”The only problems that I see with this is that two other teams are operating. And without knowing what they’re up to, we might just bring each other into danger. However, if they are planning to advance forwards to the camp, then we could indeed try to lure their attention to us. With your buddy in the sky, we can locate where the casks are coming from. Then it is simply letting them believe a portion falls back while we actually move in to annihilate their long-range bullcrap.”

”Agreed.” Was Orun’s simple reply. After a while Tireo would return and tell Orun of the plan made up by the other two detachments before Orun relayed it to Aiko. ”So if they want us to be a distraction, we should be a good one.”

The wait would eventually end as Orun explained the plan. Aiko nodded as she understood the plan. Not entirely satisfied, the jounin clicked her tongue. ”The enemy reacted longer, cause you used a wide area technique,” Aiko stated, thinking out loud, ”I will see to it that they are distracted. You will lead your unit to attack the enemy camp from the other direction.”
Throwing a glance at the remaining group of Orun, Aiko continued. ”I intend to draw a lot of attention and make the enemy believe a wave of Akinians are about to charge them. No need for you guys to exhaust yourself when you can be of more use to attack them from the side.”

”As you say.” Orun would move to collect his team and then depart to the new destination. There were a number of questions he had, but he would hold them for now. The operation had most certainly expanded past what he expected.
 
Team Hiron is Reunited!
( A continuation of Team Hiron's training)

[ Eastern Continent ]
[ A collab betwen @GlitchyBugger ,@ChromeHound and @RedFox ! Having seen Masami in action, Kyoi wants to evaluate Masami from the theoretical side as well! She has to come up with a plan for a theoretical mission that would be undertaken by herself, Shikaroku and two Gening. Enjoy! ]

Once those two minutes were up she’d beckon them both back to the middle. ”We’ll start with Masami, what observations did you come up with?” Kyoi would look to her fellow Hyuuga with a raised brow. She had her own opinions on their performances, of course, but they could wait until the two of them gave their reports.

Masami let out a sigh of relief upon realizing that she finally controls her own movements. She closed her eyes and deactivated her Byakugan as she did so, pondering upon the question asked by Kyoi. What observations did she make about Shikaroku? She let her mind run through the entire sequence of actions that just took place and thought about the actions she took, about what could have been done in a different way. There was a lot of that, no sense denying it.

"Shika prefers long range combat, which would usually mean that getting up close and personal should be the solution. But in his case, it just plays in his cards. I think the biggest mistake I made was being hesitant about going all out. By being hesitant, I gave him the opportunity to dictate the rules of the engagement, and he took control of it perfectly. With the benefit of hindsight, I think the proper course of actions should have been keeping him off balance by long range attacks and use his lack of firm footing to corner him. I should have taken better note of the relative position of the sun against us to try and decrease his advantage by clever positioning." Masami replied with her immediate thoughts, but her mind still occupied with analyzing their spar.

After releasing Masami from the technique, Shikaroku had bowed his head slightly in a show of respect before listening to Kyoi’s instructions. Heading towards his side, the Nara set his mind to the task at hand. Sitting with his back against a tree, Shikaroku closed his eyes and steepled his hands together, concentrating. After the time had passed, he opened his eyes and made his way back towards the others.

Kyoi instructed Masami to speak first and Shikaroku listened patiently, interested in hearing her views on the spar. When she had finished, he nodded slightly before taking his own turn speaking. "Masami is highly skilled with her Byakugan and in mid-short ranged combat. I have not sparred with her in a long time, so I needed to keep that in mind when the spar started. Her first move was a rather risky one, as she positioned herself in such a way that I would have a distinct advantage. It is obvious now that it was an attempt to trap me, however, if this were a real fight, the move very likely could have cost her her life.” Glancing for a brief moment towards Masami, he shot her an apologetic look before turning back to Kyoi and continuing. "Without knowing my abilities fully, she put herself at risk of being captured or worse in the hopes that it would allow her to launch a surprise attack. After analyzing this, I was able to adjust my strategy somewhat in an attempt to take advantage of the high risk mentality. My genjutsu technique was meant to distract her for a longer period of time, which would have given me a positional advantage, however, it is clear I misjudged the effects." Chewing his lip thoughtfully for a moment, the Nara wondered what exactly Masami had seen. He had a hunch, but the only way to know for certain was to ask her and he felt there might be some apologizing in order if that were the case…

"Afterwards, I was able to use diversionary techniques to push Masami to react instead of pressing the advantage. This allowed me to capture her but I did not anticipate her ability to use techniques while captured by my shadow. Had this been a real fight, my carelessness would have led to my death." Finished, Shikaroku would remain silent, awaiting Kyoi’s feedback.

”So that’s how the bout seemed to go in your respective opinions? I can agree with some of what you’ve stated, that can be said with certainty. There was a distinct limit on what exactly the two of you could use, thus possibly giving a handicap one way or the other, but you made do with what you were permitted to use so I’m pleased that it didn’t escalate during the fight.” Kyoi would first look to Masami after finishing the opening statement.

”Knowing Shikaroku is of the Nara clan, and knowing their speciality techniques that rely on shadows, the decision to more or less give him your shadow whilst ensuring the glare of the sun affected him the most during your aerial assault is definitely a risky one that indeed could have cost your life just as much as it could have paid off. But knowing what you know, I would say your first priority should have been to disable his hands in order to prevent him from using most of his techniques and thusly eliminate a majority of his arsenal. Be it with a strike or something more, of course that’s easier said than done, especially in a sparring match. And no doubt hindsight has told you just as much.”

Her gaze would shift to Shikaroku now. “As for you, taking advantage of the opening to determine how the match would go is what’s expected of you, especially your use of genjutsu to provide a distraction for however brief a moment it may be. Misjudging the effects on your enemy’s psyche should not be a factor you take into account in proper engagements, but as your case is special, I appreciate not mentally scarring a member of my clan. Your judgement of the fact Masami was no longer a threat after you caught her was poorly made, if anyone is to be considered still a threat despite being unable to move, it would be someone with our level of chakra control.”

”Now, I’m glad you can both at the least recognise where you individually failed during that bout, as well as picking out one anothers strong points, we can attempt to work on your independent decision-making skills in the midst of a fight. Being able to tell when your opponent is actually incapable of retaliation is going to have to be something you work on in your own time, Shikaroku, especially when you have them caught in your shadow techniques.”


Looking between the two, Kyoi would furrow her brow somewhat and cross her arms over her chest.

”We’ll start it simple with a theoretical team, based on your decisions we’ll see where this goes. You two are on a mission together with two genin team members, we’ll call them Shinji and Yukari, they’re both somewhat experienced but still wet behind the ears in terms of real combat, you’re not expected to get into any combat, which is why they’re on the mission with you this time.”

“You’re tasked with observation of an enemy encampment and you’re supposed to be out there for the next three days, making notes of numbers, guard rotations and the like. Initially, how do you determine who will be watching, where you’ll be watching from and how long each of your shifts watching will be? And how do you determine the chain of command between yourselves? For inexplicable reasons, there is no designated team leader. If you want to, you can talk between yourselves about it for a moment to get yourselves on the same page.”
With her full pitch made, Kyoi would wait for their answer.

Hearing Kyoi’s answer evoked mixed feelings in Masami. She briefly thought over what she did right, and what could have cost her life in a real combat situation. She decided to make no excuses for herself as she listened to the next part of their test. She felt her respect towards her kin rise by the second, and a faint smile appeared on her lips as a response to her words. Their next task was only theoretical, something she was actually glad for. They were to reply about how they would proceed in what seemed to be a routine scouting mission - something, as she knew, could go horribly wrong. Upon Kyoi finishing, Masami quickly bowed her head." Thank you for your feedback, Kyoi-sama. I will keep it in mind to improve myself." She then turned back to Shika and slowly approached him, already thinking about what she would say, while at the same time she tried to keep her emotions in check.

Shikaroku listened to Kyoi’s critique silently, absorbing her words. His eyebrows narrowed ever so slightly when she mentioned he should be aware of the Hyuuga’s chakra control. He agreed that he had made a mistake in assuming Masami would not be able to do anything while captured in his shadow, but chakra control did not have anything to do with it. There were not many who had techniques they could use without hand seals, especially ones that were so deadly at range. Chakra control alone would not help someone escape the shadow imitation technique. Kyoi was correct, however. Shikaroku would need to work on ways of countering those who could use such techniques. Otherwise he’d be leaving himself open to surprise attacks that could hurt himself or the other members of his team.

When Kyoi switched to her theoretical scenario, Shikaroku listened intently. He found such exercises interesting. They were definitely much more enjoyable than physical challenges… When she was finished explaining the scenario, Shikaroku bowed his head slightly in a show of respect before turning towards Masami. Turning away from Kyoi slightly so that they could discuss in private, the Nara spoke, his tone quiet. "I think the question of who would lead is rather obvious," he began, meeting Masami’s gaze. "You would take primary lead. You’re the most experienced and have handled harder missions. Your Byakugan also gives you an incredible advantage for this particular style of mission."

"As for the other questions,"
he began, "Some more thought needs to be put into that." Scratching the back of his neck, he let out a slight sigh. "What is the range of your Byakugan now?" Shikaroku asked, tilting his head to the side. "My thought would be to set up two observation points. One located further back, with you and one of the genin. And a second one located closer to the encampment with myself and the other genin. Your Byakugan would provide greater visibility of the surrounding area, which gives us the benefit of being able to maintain a little more distance. Should something go wrong, this would allow yourself and the other genin to safely extract yourselves and report back to command." Pondering the rest of the scenario, he continued, "As for the shifts, I’d recommend nothing longer than three or four hours at a time."

Masami nodded as she listened to Shikaroku speak his mind. And as always, she was amazed by the way he thought. The way he analyzed the situation, the certainty with which he spoke.You truly are something else, Shika. Now I am sure why I chose you, she thought to herself. She didn’t like the idea of just leaving him behind, but she knew that should the situation come to be, she’d do it, albeit with a heavy heart. Suppressing a blush at the words that were aimed at her, and she focused on the questions aimed at her."I - thank you. But keep in mind, Shika - there is no such thing as an easier or harder mission. Each mission requires us to be focused at one hundred percent, even routine missions like this one.” She spoke in a tone that was perhaps a lot harsher than she intended to. She frowned slightly at her tone, but decided to continue. She took this exercise as she would took a regular mission, which she thought was what Kyoi-sama would expect from her."The maximum distance I can effectively use my eyes is about one kilometer, but in order to achieve that, I need to be stationary. This, of course, is not an issue for me. I am not sure whether I could maintain the distance for full three hours, which I think is a suitable amount of time for a shift. But limits are made to be pushed, so I would find a way to make it work."

Thinking for a couple of seconds, Masami went through the scouting missions she had, on what she can draw from the experience."I would position myself so that your position would be at half of the distance I can see. That way, if I spot anything coming your way, we have some time - I’d radio you the exact numbers and their direction. That would give us some time to react. Perhaps a couple, perhaps a few of them. It’s not ideal, but we’ll work with what we have." She then thought about an idea and decided to share it with Shika.

"We’d be taking three hour turns, as you proposed. One of us and a genin would be up. I don’t think it would be wise for both of us to rest at the same time. The idea I propose is - when I’m on watch guard, you and the genin assigned to you would go slightly ahead and scout. But only to a distance that there would still be some buffer distance between you and possible contacts. Otherwise, you’d stay close to your position and observe from there. We’d spend twelve hours on one pair of locations, then we’d either move them according to intel we got or what we observed. I also suggest some degree of radio silence. Your thoughts?"

Nodding his head, Shikaroku listened carefully as Masami explained her thoughts. It was a good plan to have her in a range where she could see past their own position, it would allow them to ensure nobody was sneaking around behind them. He did have a few concerns however. "So far I definitely agree with your idea on positioning. It would be best to ensure we have as much coverage as possible. One thing to consider, however, is how long you can keep up your Byakugan without getting exhausted. " Tilting his head slightly, the Nara continued, "I know you are quite skilled with it, but we have to keep in mind that the enemy could attempt to attack at any moment. If your chakra levels are severely depleted from keeping up your Byakugan for too long, then it puts you and the mission at risk."

Shikaroku scratched his chin and glanced away, trying to gather his thoughts. "Radio silence is a good idea. We should only be communicating in emergency situations, else we run the risk of our signal being picked up. The only thing I’d like to make certain of is that we’re not overly reliant on your Byakugan. Your proposal that myself and the other genin could scout during your watch times is not a bad one, though I think that should be limited to once, or possibly twice a day at most. This way you have enough rest between those times and we’re not leaving ourselves too exposed. If you’re in agreement, then I think we can take our plan back to Kyoi."

Masami listened to Shikaroku’s suggestions, and she once again felt paling in comparison to his deduction. It is true that maintaining the Byakugan at maximum range for prolonged periods of times was still taxing in terms of chakra, which would indeed endanger their mission. Having listened to his suggestions, she quickly tried to make them fit into her idea. Unsurprisingly to her, the adjustments could be made without seconds." Those are good suggestions. I could push my Byakugan to its limit, let's say, two or three times in an hour for a few minutes. This way, I will still have plenty of chakra and stamina to hold my own should the need arise." She also wanted to point out that while she appreciated his concern, she could handle herself. But she realized that it would sound mean, talk like this to someone who expressed concerns over her well being. Plus, there is a good chance she was misinterpreting the words.

" I agree on your scouting pattern. I think either we should set a fixed time for those moves, or when we spot something we judge to be worth investigating. I would leave those calls to you, since you’d be out there. My eyes might be all seeing, but I don’t think my mind could process what I see the way you do." She then leaned a bit closer to him and placed her right hand on his shoulder."You’ll have to promise you won’t push yourself too hard in order to avoid your migraines. It’s important to me that we all make it back home, no matter how trivial the mission is." She then pulled away and made an attempt at a reassuring smile, that she felt had insecurity present despite her best efforts."I think - yes, we can report to Kyoi-sama."

When Masami put her hand on his shoulder, Shikaroku instinctively pulled back slightly, stopping himself when he realized she was only showing concern. Clenching his jaw as she mentioned his migraines, however, Shikaroku had to bite his tongue. His migraines were not something he wanted people to know about. As it were, there was only a few people who knew about them and Shikaroku wasn’t keen on that list growing. Masami had not meant anything by it, other than trying to tell him she cared for him, but it didn’t stop the Nara from withdrawing a little.

His expression remained neutral and Shikaroku nodded slowly, turning away from Masami and heading back to Kyoi. Describing their plan to her, he would finish, keeping his arms folded in front of himself, awaiting her response.
 
[ Empire of Akino | Kanazawa, Uchiha Heartlands ]
[ The Tournament of Kanazawa ]


As the evening came to an end, thus bringing the Imperial Gathering to a halt. The following morning, there would be a new amount of activity surrounding Kanazawa. Many that were eager and curious would leave the mighty gates to the south, towards a plain that was occupied by various structures and matters. Banners fluttered in the soft breeze. The colours and sigils presented on the banners representing their respective clans.
Various tiles were present, the wooden frames determining the range to what the combatants would be allowed to move to. Many seats were provided by the structures, with some having a special occupation - reserved for a respective clan to view over all the tiles.

Organised properly, the tournament would lead into single elimination. Each clan was to bring forward a champion that had to adhere to various rules before being allowed to partake. Once each participant was introduced, the main event would start. A large number of city guards were present, to secure the safety of the champions as the local populace cheered and booed at their choices.
The first phase of the tournament would occur with not too many surprises. Only much to the dismay of the local populace did the Uchiha clan lose against the Senju clan, creating an awkward situation.
Another dramatic occurrence was when the Hon and Sarutobi champions squared off. Their fight was bloody and without mercy, only ending in the death of the Sarutobi champion - creating a cheer from the local populace while it was clear that the Hon champion was most devastated.

After some rest and some entertainment by musicians and jesters, the second phase of the tournament would begin. The sun starting to reach its highest point, the majority was clad in thick clothing against the cold winter air.
The second phase of the tournament would proceed without much deaths or odd occurrences.
Leading all to the third phase of the tournament, where only five champions of the eighteen clans were left standing. After a well-earned rest, the champions were once more pitted in duels against each other.
This would soon be leading to the death of the Housha champion, felled by the Hon champion's axe. The death of the Housha champion would lead to a lot of anger from the local populace, that demanded the Hon champion facing judgement. Nearly would this spring into a revolt as the Hon clan was ready to back their champion against the restless crowd, that had seen much violence already.
Only due to the intervention of the Uchiha's guards and soldiers would a clash be prevented.

With the day far from over, only time would tell which clan would be able to claim the victory and the respective prizes.
 
[ Empire of Akino | Fire Province - Vindex, the capital of the Tokugawa Clan ]
[ Yone Tsuji of Amegakure Team 22 ]
[ Operation: Terrible Dread ]


The journey towards Vindex seemed nearly surreal. Her mission was enough to warrant certain documents and matter that would allow her to leave Amegakure in peace. Even gifting her the possibility to commandeer some transportation to her location of soon to be operations.
But to just go around and use her documents to demand free services would nearly do away all her advantage of remaining inconspicuous.
Thus making Yone opt to use some silver to acquire some transportation with a trader's caravan.

The moment that she was leaving Amegakure, Yone's heart was skipping beats now and then. The dreary landscape that made up Amegakure's perimeter soon surrounded Yone and the caravan. No longer were there tall buildings or streets filled with people in her sight. In a way, the tranquillity of nature seemed to offer something else. The only constant reminder that she wasn't yet far from home was the near-constant pour that fell out of the sky.
What did change first was the sight to the east. As the caravan continued to travel over the paved roads and closing distance each day with Vindex, the mountain range that made up most of the Rain and Fire province border came closer as well. Sighting the mountains for the first time, Yone felt very small. But while she felt intimidated, she also felt impressed. And the need to travel closer to inspect the mountains that seemed to loom over the caravan each day that they got closer.
A drastic change did seem to take place. For as the caravan got close to the mountain range and continue through a narrow pass, the rain didn't follow them.
Confused on how it seemed that the mountains were blocking the rain pour Yone was met with a sight. A wonderful view that stole her breath.
Perched on top of a waggon, she saw how the world seemed to open as the caravan exited the narrow and long mountain pass. The warm rays of the sun combined with the landscape was prettier than anything she had seen in Amegakure.



Walking through the long street, Yone adjusted her new attire. It had now been three days since she had arrived in Vindex. And she had yet to acquire more information before she would take the next step.
For Vindex was a completely different world than Amegakure. The city didn't only look different but so did the people. Their accent was slightly different than hers but nothing that hampered communication.
The buildings weren't perhaps as tall as in Amegakure, for there seemed that Vindex didn't suffer the presence of water surrounding the city's borders. Thus making it logical that with the growth of population the Tokugawa didn't need to build as tall as the people of Amegakure did.
Something else that caught Yone's attention was the craft that the Tokugawa committed to their buildings. In Amegakure, everything seemed to rely on functionality. It had to be practical or else it wasn't built, kind of idea.
In Vindex, there seemed a certain aspiration to make art out of buildings. Roofs being supported by marble columns, not to forget the various artworks carved into the marble and stone. Yone felt like each of those columns spoke a tale of their own.
It felt surreal as Yone couldn't yet comprehend the idea that this was still her country. If someone did tell her that she went too far east and wandered up in another sovereign state, she would totally buy that story.

The people also were vastly different. They weren't garbed to protect themselves against the rain. Instead, they wore elaborated robes and tunics of variant colours. Even the poorest person Yone had sighted wore better clothing than what she had seen in Amegakure.
It was one of the reasons why she decided to acquire a traditional Tokugawa garb for herself - convincing herself that she needed to be able to blend in.
But in truth? Yone felt happy to wear something with a bright colour. Toppled together with the more forgiving climate and weather, Yone was sure that the Tokugawa were enjoying some strange blessing of their deity or deities.

This all didn't prevent Yone to focus on her mission, though. She kept in mind why she was in Vindex and what Mitsunari had entrusted her. Lord Riojin had gifted her a chance to prove herself and Yone was full intent to prove she was worth his trust.
For apparently, a zealot had escaped the last fight that had tore Amegakure apart. There were certain hints and evidence that pointed out that this zealot was perhaps responsible for the murder of the previous Amekage. And now it was Yone's task to hunt this vile culprit down.
Or well, just his location. She was under no obligation to fight and actually capture the person. It was already quite stretched to grant such a mission to a genin, Yone figured.
But she hadn't yet begun to delve for more information about the kagekiller yet. First, she needed to establish a basic knowledge of Vindex and on its people. Then she would work on the second phase of her plan: acquiring assistance without giving away her advantage of surprise.
 
[ Republic of Water | Eastern Fringes of the Republican dominated waters ]
[ Team 11 - Hirashima collaberation | @Jessie Targaryen , @Celestial Scorpio , @Nim and @Oetje ]
[ Recovering from their last endeavour, Team 11 is once more assigned to a Republican flotilla of ships. This time they are set out to take down a mysterious threat to the eastern fringes of the Republican sphere of influence...]

Part 1



The days went by slowly. Not much else happened than constant drilling and exercises. No news came from what happened at home. Nobody told them what was going to happen next. Confined within the walls of the large barracks, Nishi’s team was obligated to train at the rise of the sun and until the evening.
The cycle would be disturbed eventually, as other instructions came to be. Nishi ordered the team to ready their gear. Once outside their small confinement, it was clear that something was being prepared. Groups of troops were heading to the docks, carrying their rucksacks as they made their way out of the barracks.

Under Nishi’s strict leadership, the team would take a similar route, towards the docks. Being allowed to pass the blockade that seperated the commercial and civilian docks from the restricted military sector, Nishi led her team to a large ship.
The vessel was around the same size and aside from aesthetics differences, seemed pretty much the same.
The crew onboard was preparing for the new voyage but seemed more focused on heavy fighting. Where the previous crew of the Junyo had a contingent of marines on board that were already sporting a tough appearance, the current crew seemed to deck more armour and weapons.
The steel glistened in the sun as many of the present marines would take care of their weapons.
”Listen up,” Nishi said as she dropped a bag that she had been carrying since they left the barracks. ”Some changes have occured. Seems that there is some new brass in charge. One that overthrew the previous Senate and all.”
Letting a pause roll in, Nishi figured that only Yukimi likely cared much for the politics. None of the genin seemed much interested in politics or even aware of the underground power struggles.

”If it were up to me, you guys didn’t earn it. None of you,” giving a kick to the heavy sack, Nishi nodded to it. ”But you are going to need it. Seems that you are in luck to receive one of the first batch of new supplies. Including protective vests. Hayashi clan style,” Nishi finished, crossing her arms as she would let her team equip themselves with the protective vests.
”Other than that, it seems that the Divine is blessing you all with a chance to start your redemption. More strange vessels have been spotted. And we are going to take them down. All of them.”

The training routine was hard, but Hikari kept going at it without any complaints. She had to be ready, for whatever may come. When news came and it was time to get going, Hikari followed Nishi’s instructions and walked after the jounin. As they came on board, she briefly wondered how dangerous the mission they were going on was about to be. Before Nishi spoke about that, she informed them of yet another change to the government. The genin briefly wondered what it meant for her grandfather and father, both of whom supported different factions of the Senate.

Pushing the thought aside, she continued to listen as Nishi kicked the sack she brought with her, claiming they did not earn what was inside. It made Hikari wonder if whatever was inside was very valuable. Some vests dropped out of the bag, and Hikari kneeled to look at it more closely as the jounin gave a brief explanation about the gear. Removing the flak jacket she had on and putting the new one, Hikari rose back up and looked at her sensei. When the latter finally informed them of what they will be doing, she placed her hand on her sheathed blade, nodding with a decisive expression "We won’t let a single one get away.” She said.

Despite her demeanor towards the others staying mostly the same throughout the training and next few days, Yukimi’s mind was a complete mess of emotion. She knew everything that had occurred was burdened on her, yet she still couldn’t make herself simply say that aloud. She couldn’t make herself break that icy exterior she had been conditioned to upkeep. Yet there were other ways that her inner turmoil shown through her actions in training. Every day she worked herself to exhaustion during training. Basically collapsing into her bunk at night.

Their routine was soon changed as the team was assigned to a new ship. A whole mess of new emotion racing through her mind. Reminding her of exactly why she hadn’t used her kekkei genkai a single time since she had killed all those people. At the news of a new government being created, a reaction finally broke its way past that icy exterior. Yukimi turned towards Nishi with a surprised, and concerned expression. As her thoughts shifted to whether or not her parents had made it out of that in one piece. It took her a long few moments to force that surprise away and grab one of the flak jackets as she heard their mission. Yukimi did not opt to speak up as Hikari had, instead giving a simple nod by way of affirming she understood the mission.

During the training Claire not only focused on physical training but mental training. Her anger and emotions still got the best of her and she knew she needed to work harder. Working hard she would end the days sweating and out of breath. It had seemed her teammates did the same, working to the bone to improve themselves. She would make sure she could talk to her two new teammates and sort out any issues. Claire knew it was wrong of her and she knew she had to fix it. The days had passed and soon they were told they had a way to seek redemption.

Hikari was confident they would get everyone, leaving no one behind. But had she forgotten that their ship sank and some survived. It wouldn’t be an easy task to get every soul there. Looking towards Yukimi she saw the same girl she once knew. Cold, distant and icy. She knew there was more to her and was slowly breaking through but it had hurt some seeing her regress to that state and she knew something was on her mind. As word came that there was a shift in power Claire saw the Yuki become surprised and concerned for a glimpse of a moment before taking the jacket. Moving to take hers she looked to her friend before walking past. ‘Yukimi..’ She murmured knowing now wasn’t the time to try and talk.

Himiko kept mostly to her own during her time training. She spoke not a word to anyone, the shame was enough to keep her mouth shut. All she could think about was the crashing failure of her first mission, and how hard she would be forced to work. She felt a level of resentment, towards herself and her team, in that she had worked so hard to get where she was just for it all to fall apart. She pushed herself during training drills, overly, even if she didn’t meet the snuff of her other, more experienced teammates. To her, if anyone was to be the better of their bunch, she wanted it to be herself. Himiko felt no satisfaction in the already rough beginning of her time as a genin, and she wasn’t certain if anything would ever get better. Regardless, she pushed herself beyond exhaustion in her drills, even doing things on her own, in a manner to not disturb anyone around her or otherwise break rules.

She stood in the lineup, an element of tiredness dulling her eyes, as silent fear gripped her heart; They were being put right back on a boat? Who would even trust them with such a thing so soon? Himiko almost felt sick as she looked to the bag of supplies, quietly taking her share, giving her fellow Genin and Chunin an almost weary look as she equipped herself. She had nothing left to say as she stood in silence, a shadow resting on her face as she silently plotted as to avoid absolute failure this time around.

Watching how the genin and chuunin took their gear, Nishi remained silent. The replies, both verbal as non-verbal were enough. They didn't do anything to instil any sense of confidence, in Nishi's opinion. But right now, she would have to see how they would react and act upon the current mission.



The sound of waves being broken was mixed with the shouts of the deckhands. The jingling of chainmail was aligned together with the soft squeaking of leather as the many soldiers on deck were readying. Other shinobi were easily picked out, by their uniforms. All the while, the ship on which Nishi's team was located had joined with others. A flotilla of war vessels that seemed to be heading to a certain point.
After two days of travel, the array of Republican vessels started to decrease speed. Up in the distance, there were various specks visible. A tangible tension started to arise as soon as the news started to spread. Then shouts erupted, followed by officers and the captains yelling commands from the top of their lungs.

Together with others, Nishi and her team were directed to stand near the front of the ship. Surrounded by other marines, it was hard to see what was going on, let alone to figure out when they needed to get moving on.
A constant beat below the deck started to resonate, a soft warning that the oars were starting to pick up some pace.
"Stick close," Nishi began, raising her voice to make herself audible for her team, "Watch each other's back."
There was more than Nishi wanted to instruct. But she wasn't sure if she needed to remind the girls on their mistake. Turning her gaze to where they were sailing ahead, they could see what the spots, in the distance, were.

Various of the specks were the type of ships that they had seen before. Their shape seemed bulkier than the Republican galleys, their large sails their only power to dwarf that of the galleys. But what stood out was a floating fortress, guarded by the enemy ships.
The floating fortress was massive, easily capable of dwarf anything that Nishi had ever seen on the seas. Many more just became silent, taking in the sight of the frightening monstrosity that was slowly heading their way.
Roars echoed over the waters as the enemy manned their ships, clearly eager to face the Republicans - this time likely desiring to sink the Republicans to the bottom of the sea.
Before anyone could say anything, the drums started to go faster. Within a mere moment, the ship on which team Nishi was located started to crash through the waves with more speed. Slowly the marines and deckhands onboard would stomp with a foot or using the bottom of a spear, their gaze focused on the target - the enemy behemoth of a ship.

The two days of travel made Hikari feel a bit uneasy at first. It felt like they may have been travelling too far. Were they still in Republic sea territories even? Those thoughts roamed in her head for a bit, before the atmosphere began to change. People were beginning to get ready, to steel themselves for something that they will soon be reaching. And she saw in the distance several ships, but among them stood something that felt unnaturally big. If it wasn’t surrounded by enemy ships, Hikari would’ve wondered if it was some kind of beast. Nishi then gave them their instructions once more, as the rowers started to put more effort into moving the ship forward. The marines and deckhands started to stomp and look towards their target, which Hikari followed and quickly enough realized what it was. She took a deep breath, focusing her sight on the same ship, and put her hand on the handle of her blade.

During their sailing, Claire just observed. She had wondered where the enemy was, but that soon was answered once they were in sight. The normal ships had been seen before but the larger one, boy was it a giant in comparison. Giving a nod to the Jounin’s words she looked at her team. Would they be able to do well this time? The silent tension made the genin wonder if there would be teamwork or just more fighting. Placing a hand on Himiko’s shoulder softly to get the girl's attention, Claire spoke. ”I am sorry for my threat, lets get through this together. When we can, let's make amends.” She kept it quick and hushed so she wouldn’t distract others. Looking to Yukimi she once was in the same boat, the Chuunin almost freezing her to death, and held her much lower in the past. They had worked past it and she was sure Himiko and herself could as well.

The hype that seemed to surge through the deck was partially relieving but also unsettling. The vessel was large and it would take a lot to sink it. She had no idea how they would even do so, their ships were much smaller and they would be outnumbered easily. Claire watched the waves as their boat struck through them, the speed increasing to get to the target. Resting her hand on her sickle she looked to the behemoth, trying to prepare herself for what's to come.

The Chuunin’s eyes went rather wide when she saw the ship that would be their target, could it even be called a damned ship. That monster of the seas, could it even be called that, was something that Yukimi truly found terrifying. Though she forced herself to focus in, knowing that kind of fear would not go well in the fight itself. She nodded towards the team leader as she moved up with them, wondering how they planned on taking down the monster ship. Placing a hand on her kunai, she mentally prepared herself for what she could expect to be an absolute hell. She wanted to bring up an idea briefly about using her powers to help sink other ships similar to what happened before, but something inside of her quickly silenced the idea. Hopefully the skills she had learned during training would be enough to assist in the coming battle.

The drumming of the soldiers and shinobi onboard was overwhelming for a mere moment. The sound of the ships crashing through the waves and shouts of officers was drowned out as the adrenaline rushed through the many bodies.
Then just a mere moment before the Republican vessel slammed itself into the monstrosity of a hostile ship, the crew unleashed a deafening cry of defiance and anger. The battery briefly seemed to overshadow the violent sounds of wood cracking and iron bending.
Several people on deck were slammed forwards by the clash. A few men on both sides tumbled into the dark waves with an agonizing scream - that was deafened by the following sounds of battle.

Recovering from the rocking of the vessels upon their violent exchange, Nishi would grip her blade tighter. The rows of soldiers and shinobi in front of them moved as one force - the adrenaline pushing any hesitation or fear away.
Following suit, Nishi saw how the enemy tried to brace and fend off the assault. But to no avail, as the Republican troops were determined to wreak havoc and death among their unknown enemies.
The melee was chaotic and messy. Steel swung, only to be followed by the shouts of agony or triumph. For nearly a second, it seemed as if the enemy was able to contain the Republican assault.
Then the world seemed to shake and tremble upon a second Republican vessel arriving, slamming the hefty ram into the rough belly of the beast of a ship.
Additional Republican troops quickly turned the melee into a slaughter. No mercy was given for none was expected.
As the first group of enemies were pushed back, Nishi and her team were able to board the enemy ship.

”Stay with me,” Nishi had to scream to make herself audible over the crucible that was the current combat. Gesturing with her free hand for the others to follow, Nishi quickly glanced upwards.
The enemy ship had three layers, each layer packed with soldiers. Noticing that the enemy was readying to unleash a barrage of projectiles from the second layer, Nishi moved into action.
Applying chakra at her boots, the jounin swiftly ran up the wooden wall. In a swift motion upon reaching the top, Nishi lashed out. Her blade slicing through a surprised archer that dropped gurgling to the ground.
Landing on her feet, the jounin started to hack and drive some enemies away - in anticipation for her team to follow her.
 
Maekawa Otome
At Ranzaki, the capital of the Lightning Country.
After the 'Liberation of Ranzaki'.

The fires built columns of smoke, that disappeared in the obsidian coloured night. No matter where she attempted to go, the ambience of the city was filled with the clash of steel, screams of agony and the shouts of anger. It was pure chaos and bloodshed without any escape, so far Ottome could see.
Running through the alley, she saw figures up ahead. Coming to a sudden halt, she watched as more figures ran across - their bodies being nothing more than grim shadows with the fires creating an eerie scenery.
Mesmerized but afraid Ottome tried to turn away. Try to run once more, wanting to find shelter and peace from what had befallen upon the city.

Waking up, Ottome's hands shot towards her temples. Her fingertips felt pleasantly cold against her hair and temples. Leaning forwards Ottome tried to focus on the blanket that she had thrown off. There wasn't any indication that violence was spreading around her. That she needed to run again.
Closing her eyes briefly, the images seemed to be burned in her memory. The chaos and destruction that had taken place. The piles of corpses and the fires that dominated the city upon the liberation by the Hojo forces.
Softly and slowly breathing out Ottome would lower her hands. If anything, she hadn't imagined that her kunoichi career would 'enjoy' such a volatile start. The assignment to be stationed in Ranzaki to keep an eye on what happened and to report back to another Kumogakure shinobi seemed all but exciting yet lacking anything life-threatening.
But upon her arrival in the great city of Ranzaki, Ottome was constantly exposed to doubt and worries.

The civil strife continued and there seemed an abundance of problems rising within Ranzaki. The denizens of the city constantly seemed to receive rumours and vague hints on what occurred in the country. The first defeats of the Regency were thrown on the fact that the rebels had contracted demons, signing unholy pacts to secure their victories. The savages of the far north even eating the dead, in a foolish belief that they would become stronger because of such horrible traditions.
The rumours that the Imperials from the south had arrived was something that Ottome waved off as mere rumours, for what had the Akinian Empire to win to meddle in the affairs of the north?

When the Hojo, however, arrived at the city there was widespread panic. People feared that the Hojo was planning to fully purge the city of all its denizens, sacrificing them to thirsting gods with horrible laughs. Yet people had the belief that the Hojo couldn't take the city in a matter of days. A belief that was shattered in a matter of days in the most horrible way as the same night the Hojo force cracked the defences with near-impossible ease.

Slowly leaning backwards till she was on her back, Ottome stared at the canvas that protected her from the cold and weather. The aftermath of the liberation of Ranzaki threw her into a flurry of weird days where she was sent to a military camp. It wasn't clear yet what her next assignment would be. But, hopefully, it would be something less stressful...
 
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[ Hylli Hyuzu ]
[ Eastern Continent, at the 11th Brigade Camp ]
[ Arriving! ]


The journey had been long and peaceful. There wasn't much excitement but Hylli was content with that. It gave her time to think and mentally prepare for what could await her east. The fact that she was being deployed on the eastern continent meant several things, after all. It meant that she was far away from home - which was both a good and bad thing in her opinion. It was a chance to earn herself some recognition if there was indeed a large conflict brewing east. But more so, it meant that she could focus on her current path. Leaving the 'distractions' at home and for another day.
The journey on itself was already quite the experience. For someone that had never seen the ocean, Hylli had never felt to pay much homage to the god of the sea. Seeing that she was meant to pass over the gigantic body of water made that change. Knowing from some stories on how moody Ergir, the lord of the deep, could be Hylli was hoping that her sacrifice would be sufficient.
And for the first few days, the weather was calm and a strong breeze seemed to carry the vessels quickly towards their destination. And in Hylli's opinion, it couldn't be fast enough. For the first few days were also likely the worst.
Many times she could be found near the railing and throw up the rationed food. And many times she nearly cursed Ergir and his domain for being so troublesome to venture. The rocking waves making Hylli sick and weak for the first part of the journey.

Once the journey over the sea had ended Hylli had two days to recover. The supplies that were being escorted to the 11th Brigade was in need to be collected and checked. Happy with the short break from travelling Hylli could find most of her strength before she was forced to move on.
Her expectations of the eastern continent weren't met. Understanding from the start that it wasn't some vastly different world, she had still expected it to be different. But the people seemed quite the same and neither nature seemed much different.
Not that she had much chance to explore or venture out. Her task was to help guard the supplies and escort them to their destination. Nothing more and nothing else.
Yet if anything Hylli was content with the march as it didn't make her seasick. The only major difference being that she was constantly required to adhere to the Imperial Akinian regulations. Wearing a vest of chainmail and helmet at near all-time, Hylli was most thankful for the equipment. Various stories had already reached her ears on how the first Akinian troops had nasty encounters with hostile forces. And perhaps while there was a political treaty that made Akino partake in the pacification of the Eastern continent, Hylli wasn't agreeing. It was too far from home and she couldn't care less about the locals. Their problems were their own in her opinion.

But she wasn't in any position to make such decisions. Nor was she able to just go against the chain of command. Thus she continued with the march.
Until she finally reached the encampment of the 11th Brigade.



Watching how the supplies were taking care of Hylli placed her hands on her hips. She wondered if they would soon venture back to the Empire. Likely to fetch the following batch of supplies. Or perhaps going back to one of the landing zones where they would then escort the batch of supplies meant for the other Akinian hosts present on the eastern continent.
"Hylli Hyuzu?" A masculine voice resonated loudly and broke Hylli from her thoughts. Turning to the source of the voice Hylli saw the leading officer of the journey approach her. Giving him a salute, she would nod.
"Yes, sir?"
"You may pack your things. You are transferred to the 11th Division," the officer stated without much emotion in his voice. Yet his words caused Hylli to be baffled. Her lips already parted as various questions shot through her mind. But this was one of those moments where she had to just accept her fate and try to make the best out of it.

Taking her belongings with her Hylli was directed to meet up with one of the quartermasters. Unsure what to do else Hylli did as she was instructed. It turned out that she would become assigned to the 2nd battalion of the 11th Brigade. This battalion went by the name of 'Axebiters' which made Hylli slightly curious. But she kept her thoughts to herself, deciding to just continue.
"Hm? Ah, yes. You are the last to be transferred today. Good of you to come now," the quartermaster stated as he didn't even look away from the supplies that were carried into their designated place. "You can get the remaining of your gear over there. Then find your way to Eòin, Hyuzu."

If anything was comfortable, it was that the quartermaster spoke in Chonobi. Relieved that she was, at least, assigned to a host that was predominantly made up by Chonobi meant that she would have little trouble to find her way.
"If Bergjlot isn't going to throw more surprises at me," Hylli mumbled as she would venture forth to collect what more she needed.
This was going to be a long day.
 
~ GM Post ~

Events in the known world.

This GM post serves to bring news and rumours of what happens in the world. While some events might be vague rumours, twisted by the many mouths that spin the tales into something unimaginable, there are many more occurrences that will impact the clans and nations across the known world. Some of these events might be orchestrated in secret or openly by nations and clans, in a bid to weaken their neighbours or rivals. Whereas some events are the result of decisions (or lack thereof) in any shape or form.

The current year is 477 ADS,
The current month is the end of March,
This GM post is not without plots and secretive actions of others.~


* ADS = After the Death of the Sage.

In the West.

[ Wind Country / Sayyadian Kingdom ]
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Peace is fragile. It is a truth that the people of the Wind country know quite well. A revelation that they have embraced. For the constant raids from the Fang forces into the Wind have led to anger among some of the Sayyadian clans that reside in the northern parts of the kingdom. Various raids have been targetting sites that contained orchards and private property of powerful nobles. Whereas first, only the local plebians were getting upset about the constant violence that intruded them from the north, the nobility has mustered their forces to repel any raiding parties from the Fang.
To make matters worse, this response has led to an incident where a raiding party of the Fang got decimated - only a few raiders been captured alive. One of those raiders being the leader of a noble house within the Fang country.
This has sparked a demand from the Fang to unhand the nobleman at once for else dire consequences would follow.
The people of the Wind country may be seen in a negative light by many, they have yet to be impressed or frightened to draw steel against foreigner powers.

Now rumour spreads from travellers and traders alike that a wave of unrest is rolling through the country. It is unmistakable that a conflict is brewing at this rate. Whether one resides in the desert dunes or lounges comfortable at the fertile river sites, the whispers of a new war between the Wind and Fang country are growing in volume.
And soon enough, it may spark from mere threats and demands into grim violence and agony.



[ Earth Country ]
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The ongoing attempts to form a breach in the mighty defences of the Iron country haven't been halted. It is no secret that the Earth country possesses the largest state-army in the known world, so far. But doubt is growing whether the constant assaults and attempts to topple the defences of the Iron country are worth the loss in lives. Many officers that have been assigned to the fighting have voiced their doubts. Some of these officers have been replaced and send to less prestigious stations, where they can't gain any glory. Neither for themselves or their clan.
All the while, soldiers and shinobi alike are dying in droves as the brass of the military is convinced that they can breach the Iron's defences.

Yet the majority of the populace seems in full support of the war. Propaganda is spread and orchestrated by the operatives of the Tsuchikage. This constant flow of information on how well the soldiers of the nation fight and are close to winning ground has kept the populace oblivious from the real conflict that goes on in the background.
And anyone foolish enough to pry deep enough vanishes in the deep of the night.



[ Empire of Akino ]
[ Fire Province ]

The Senju Clan
@Nim

The unrest of before has started to ebb away. Much has occurred within the Senju heartlands. As the sudden raids from unknown raids have come to a sudden halt, the response of the Senju has allowed bringing some modicum of peace and stability. The smallfolk are receiving the gracious gesture of signification reduction of taxations. A generous sign but one that has raised the question on how the Senju clan will pay their taxes to the Imperial crown.

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What further has helped to quell some of the unrest is the appearance of Gakuro Senju. The leader of the clan has decided to be open about what weakness and illness have befallen him. Something that has given ammunition to his rivals and those that have grown disdained with Gakuro's rule - yet none of those has yet risen to become vocal.
To further help bring back peace and stability Gakuro has announced his plan to travel around his clan's heartlands. To hear the people out and take heed of what they request and desire, so he will be able to find the best solutions for everyone.
Yet many denizens desire that the higher echelons of the clan seek out the culprits. That justice is brought down upon those responsible. Leading to widespread discontent that is about to bring back the tension and disdain that governed many Senju households before.
Many Senju already point fingers at the Chonobi neighbours. Proclaiming that the Chonobi clans have grown bolder due to the reign of Kiyomi Homura, which has led them to just raid with impunity.

A response or PM is required before the 27th of June. Else the unrest will grow further. Even winding up to friction with the Sarutobi clan.



The Tokugawa Clan
@Oblivion666

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Voices have been raised, in conjunction with pitchforks and other simple weapons. Underneath the leadership of the charismatic Togoshi Subaru, a large flock of followers has been gathered. Various Tokugawa nobles have been itching to pick a fight. Tension is tangible and fear is present that bloodshed can't be avoided.
Somehow, however, no major skirmish has come to take place. For the Tokugawa top has instructed their operatives to infiltrate the ranks of Togoshi's growing 'horde'.
As days become weeks, Togoshi and his followers seemed to be rearing for a fight. Only for Togoshi's health to start deteriorating. Unclear what the cause was, despair began to replace hope. The boldness that bolstered with their growing numbers were slowly turning into agony shared by many.

After two weeks of battling his sudden sickness, Togoshi Subaru would succumb. His last breath departing his body causing his followers to fall apart - allowing the Tokugawa clan to settle peace and order in their heartlands without any bloodshed.
An investigation would follow suit and documents would be found. Papers that point out that Togoshi Subaru wasn't what he seemed. But merely plotting with the Hanta clan, to destabilise and harm the Tokugawa clan.



The Hanta Clan
@Jessie Targaryen

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People fight and flee wars. It is a common thing that occurs. Fathers that fear for their sons to be drafted. Mothers that dread to see their daughters to be taken by soldiers and such folk. War is a terrible mistress that rarely hands out rewards and is keen on taking as much as she can.
The civil war in the north has lead to a group of refugees that are wanting to move into the Hanta clan lands. Their story goes that they tried to flee to the Earth country. Only for the privateers to drop the refugees off at the Rice country, using threats to force them away.
The refugees then continued southwards - for those that ventured to the east or west were never to be heard from again, save it from a single survivor from the group that attempts to enter the Akinian empire from the lands under the dominion of the Framí or Hons clan.

Now the refugees desire to move into the Hanta clan. Many of which are artisans such as carpenters, weavers and other valuable labour forces.

A response or PM is required before the 27th of June. Else the refugees will be moved automatically into the Hanta clan lands.



The Hyuzu Clan
@ChromeHound

The attempted kidnapping has led to worries and wariness among the Hyuzu in their compound. In quick response did the Hyuzu echelons respond to the incidents. Such rules as that the compound closing its gates to all outside visitors from 8 PM to 8 AM. With the compound being walled off the security seemed to have little issues to keep complete overwatch.
The sighting of extra Dragon Guards, the elites of the Hyuzu clan, have lead to order and stability - the people within the compound appreciating that the attempted kidnappings have been taken seriously by the higher-ups of the clan.
The only complaints would rise in the manner of grumblings. For a sanction would be installed that the smithing district would be done by appointments - both or internal and external requests. This lead to various disappointments and frustrations of the Cho clan traders, the major trading partner of the Hyuzu clan. But other than a few arguments and frustrated grumbling, nothing more sparked out of the sanction.

Other sections would also be closed off by a particular sealing technique, known by those who were trusted enough by the Hyuzu brass. Allowing sections to be sealed off for those whose blood and chakra signature wasn't approved - or lacking the knowledge of the sealing technique. More elaborate matters would be arranged, to avoid that the many of the compound's denizens and potential outsiders would learn of what was going on. Thus allowing affairs to progress as they usually go.
More measures would be set in place, involving the guardsmen of the compound and Dragon Guards.

For a while, it stayed silent, safe it for the rumours that the competent Hyuzu smiths would be relocated to outside the compound to a secure facility to keep them safe. Two caravans would be loaded under nightfall and be allowed to exit the compound. A very small retinue of Dragon guard to escort it while some swear that they have seen various capable Hyuzu smiths inside the waggons.
Then it occurred. In the dead of the night, the Dragon Guard swept in as a few unknown individuals attempted to move in on the location where the next caravans were being prepared. The culprits were overwhelmed by the Dragon Guard present and despite some resistance, there would be no deaths. Only three wounded captives and a Dragon Guard having his uniform suffering a scratch from a knife.

The captives would be moved away. Nothing has yet leaked out to the outside world. But one of the captives has warned the Dragon Guard that retribution would be great if they wouldn't release them. That the Hyuzu clan would rue the day if they decided to press on.



In the North

[ Dominion of the Lightning ]
It wouldn't come to anyone as a surprise that the Liberation of Ranzaki by the Hojo clan started to initiate the last days of the civil war. As many would become relieved, a new wave of events would shake the country. Such as the battle of Yongai.



The Battle of Yongai
@Aliceee | @Nim

The news of Ranzaki being 'liberated' by the Hojo clan would spurt the remaining loyal forces of the Regency to start mustering for a counter-attack. Rallying near the small town of Yongai, this force would receive leadership of Koryusai of the Tano Clan. After having been able to beat a supposedly large invasion force of Saemund and Sanosuke, the northern Regency forces feel comfortable underneath the command of Koryusai.
The truth, however, was less pretty. For Koryusai was worried. Scout reports that came back were less than the number of scouts being sent out. Not to mention that one of the scouting reports detailed that a large Sanosuke force was spotted marching down south. Their numerous banners indicating that the diverse jarldoms having united into a large force that would be likely able to set half the country aflame if they wouldn't be stopped.
Yet there was enough concern that the Hojo clan was rallying its forces and could pose a serious threat to the large Regency force that was besieging various fortresses and Kumogakure, further down south.

Making the decision to venture southwards, wanting to reach the heartlands of the Alaricus clan, Koryusai made it clear to his officers and commanders that he wanted to strengthen the siege at Kumogakure. But some were wondering if Koryusai wasn't simply afraid to face the angry barbaric horde from the far north.
On their way south, however, the army of Koryusai came to a halt. Up ahead on a tall hill the vanguard was met with the flag of the Saemund clan. The banner fluttered in the cold breeze as many Saemund occupied the hill - their stern gazes trained on Koryusai's host.
Instead of advancing further, Koryusai decided to fall back and set camp. Doubt started to slip in together with the darkness of the night. There was briefly some hope as Koryusai's troops realised that they were facing off against the Saemund - who likely lacked heavy infantry or cavalry to compete with them.
As Koryusai's army assembled, the men grew bolder and determined to slay the Saemund barbarians.

Before either the Saemund or Koryusai's troops could commit to a skirmish the air would be split by thunderous rumbling. The earth itself seemed to tremble underneath the weight of the anger that was approaching Koryusai's army.
From the north, an army seemed to march out of the treeline. A multitude of banners held high, invoking fear upon Koryusai's forces. For it wasn't the fact that the Sanosuke had caught up with them. But attached to many banners were many heads, their miserable expression plastered on their features.
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As Koryusai's army started to shift its lines, a deafening cry came from the Sanosuke warriors. The rage was evident and the bloodlust nearly palpable. Shafts of spears, the buts of axeheads and pommels of swords were slammed on shields. Chants in Chonobi carried over the soon to be the battlefield.
Before the Sanosuke line of warriors would advance there would be another force that advanced forwards. Their banners invoked less fear but signalled the prideful small force of Sato riders. In what seemed to be a brave charge at the enemy, a volley of arrows were unleashed upon a large concentration of Koryusai's cavalry.
Though many arrows found their mark, they weren't able to pierce through the heavy armour. But the wicked purpose of the Sato warriors seemed different for they would already ride away - luring a large portion of Koryusai's cavalry in hot pursuit.

Koryusai attempted to hold order and command that defensive positions should be taken. But while his soldiers attempted to hold their lines, barrages of projectiles started to hail down upon their front line. Saemund troops unleashing volleys of arrows and falling back, refusing to commit to a ranged skirmish with Koryusai's archers.
All the while, the Sanosuke started to advance. Their war chants becoming louder and more fearsome with what appeared to be each step towards Koryusai's main line. Then the world seemed to unfold in the chaos of violence, agony, hatred and pain.

The collision of the Sanosuke troops upon the main force of Koryusai's infantry would send the defenders reeling back. The shields of the Sanosuke were able to negate most of the arrows that Koryusai's archers rained down upon them. Axes would hew, swords would slice and spears would pierce. On both sides, casualties started to rack up.
A fierce battle cry pierced through the crucible of battle. In the centre of the conflict, the Sanosuke pushed with their shields into the spear wall of Koryusai's soldiers. As a small space was forcefully created, a wave of Sanosuke warriors charged forwards. Carrying large twohanded axes, these dreadful warriors started a slaughter that seemed unstoppable.

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Attempting to reinforce his lines Koryusai was about to send a portion of his reserves to close the gap and force the Sanosuke back. But before he could do so, an arrow found its mark.
Pain shot through Koryusai's body, his hands shooting to his throat as the steel tip had managed to slice through flesh and skin. As his guards tried to form a defensive circle Koryusai blinked twice. Gurgling and suffocating in his blood, his death brought by a Saemund arrow.
Without a leader, the forces of Koryusai fell into disarray. Beset upon two sides and a small chance of victory, some attempted to throw down their weapons in surrender. Only to be struck down by the Sanosuke.
A portion fled to the Saemund, in hope of receiving some sort of mercy. But their cries of pain would fill the area for the rest of the day.

As night started to descend upon the world, the battlefield would become silent. Some individuals or small groups wandered around. The wounded already carried away and being treated.
The next day, large fires were spotted as the enemies, regardless if they were slain or captured, were thrown into the bonfires - no ceremonial rites accompanying these actions.



The Siege of Kumogakure
@conman2163

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The first assault wouldn't force a breach into the walls of Kumogakure. Throughout a whole day, the attackers tested the might of the defences and those who manned them. The clash between those willing to fight their way into Kumogakure and those desiring to protect the city was fierce.
Large engines of war were flinging rocks to the high walls and towers. Even as the stout fortifications started to crack, those manning them held their ground. As the evening started to approach, the assaults came slowly to an end. While many attackers had lost their lives in the numerous attempts to overwhelm the defenders, a good portion of defenders had given their lives as well to prevent the attackers their desired success.

The next following days, the assaults continued. Large projectiles were flung back and forth - like a deadly game between defenders and attackers. Many of the defences would hold until the fourth day when a focused barrage started to wear down the western fortifications.
Underneath the cheer of many soldiers of the besieging force, a portion of Kumogakure's western wall cracked and crumbled. Dust was kicked up high, quickly followed by the attackers attempting to force themselves through the gap.
A desperate fight started to take place as the local forces would attempt to force the attackers back. Cries of panic behind them gained in volume as many civilians would attempt to flee the theatre of war that suddenly closed in on them.
As night descended once more, the attackers were forced to retreat as the defenders valiantly held their own.

The following day, there wouldn't be a resuming of the conflict. Instead, a soldier atop a horse would ride to the western wall. Carrying a white flag, the message was to request a meeting with the Raikage the very same day. Or else Kumogakure would burn for his defiance.

A response or PM is required before the 27th of June. Else the assaults will continue in full force.



In the South

[ The Republic of Water ]

Kirigakure, the capital of the Republic.
@Nim | @ChromeHound | @Lesli

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The quarantine zone would receive a new supply of aid. Under the watchful eye of plenty of guards, medicine would be distributed among those stuck within the closed-off districts. Doubt existed if the medicine was truly a cure. But there were only a very few who didn't accept it, deciding that it was better than nothing.
The supply and presence of guards would bring some semblance of hope and peace back into the closed-off districts. Many of the denizens praising the fact that the higher-ups of the Republic indeed caring about their struggles and pain.

Yet, a group of angry locals would assault at separate locations. Throwing rocks at the guards and even managing to burn down the supplies at two locations, these angry denizens proclaiming that the quarantine should be lifted. The revolts were put down in a rather quick fashion but upon interrogation, it wasn't clear who had instigated these revolts. Some suspecting that they originated from the displeasure of being quarantined. Yet a few stating that it was too well organised for an angry mob.

In the morning together with the arrival of soldiers and supplies in the quarantine zone, a group of 8 ANBU would be deployed. Their goal denoting to an individual search for the Terror. Blending in with the populace in the districts, these experienced operatives would start their hunt to look for any signs of foul play.
Eventually, at night they would reach a desolated home. Cautious in their approach for any traps or ambushes, the ANBU group would discover four corpses. Bereft of their gear, these corpses lacked any sign of infection. Instead, the investigation of these corpses designating out to a demise of violence, the wounds being created by edges too sharp to be contributed to anything animalistic.

While the investigation of the corpses continued on the spot, two ANBU would descend into the home's basement. But before they could relay what they founded, a devastating series of small explosions followed in rapid sequence. The fire started to spread from the basement, threatening to consume the entire home.
Forcing the remaining six ANBU to run from the scene as neighbouring locals rushed to combat the flames.
 
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[ Kirigakure | Jounin Commander - Takeshi Shun ]
Providing Aid

There was an odd mixture of emotions running through his mind right now. Relief that they were finally able to spread some of the medicine to those in need. Fear that this would be an ideal target for anyone looking to spread further terror within the Republic. Sadness that his home had fallen so far that things had even come to this...

But mostly...

Tiredness.

Yawning widely, Takeshi Shun scratched the back of his neck as he glanced around, keeping a close eye on the men and women who were handing out the supplies. His gaze shifted out to the crowd as the tall man yawned again. They'd been at it for several days now, bringing in as many people as they could keep a handle on, while also ensuring security. To anyone familiar with the man, however, yawning was not an unusual sight. It didn't matter what he was doing, Takeshi always seemed to be in a perpetual state of exhaustion. Unlike the current moment, however, Takeshi didn't normally have an excuse.

The last few days he had barely slept. Word had been spreading about the plague in the Republic. From the reports he'd seen, it did not seem like some natural illness, rather it appeared to be man-made; meaning some one, or some thing was trying to cripple Kirigakure before it could ever recover. Making a mental note to speak with the Swordsmen when he was finished distributing the medicine, Takeshi wondered whether or not he would need to get involved with tracking down the source of this... Terror.

That sounded very tiring indeed...

A noise brought Takeshi out of his thoughts and he looked towards the source of the sound. Several men were pushing towards the front of the line. As the guards moved to hold them back, Takeshi watched one of the men pull out a large stone and hurl it towards them. One of the guards was struck and fell in a heap as the others hesitated. Narrowing his eyes, Takeshi stood to his full height, taking another look around. There had been several attacks like these at some of the other distribution locations and the reports indicated that the attacks were organized. This, however, seemed to just be a few angry citizens trying to cause a disturbance.

Or perhaps a distraction?

Hidden amongst the crowd, on the opposite side of the street, Takeshi watched as two more figures stepped out of the shadow, holding something in their hands. Letting out a sigh, Takeshi stepped forward and disappeared. A blur moved through the crowd, causing a few onlookers to stumble backwards in fright.

The two figures pulled out lighters, flicking them on and moving to light what appeared to be homemade explosives, with rags stuffed inside two bottles filled with liquor. Before they could raise the lighters to the cloth, however, a sound behind them caused them to freeze.

"Now now, this is supposed to be a place of healing." Came the voice of Takeshi, his tone holding a hint of amusement.

The eyes of the men widened and one of them dropped the bottle, raising his hands defensively, while the other one attempted to quickly light the bottle. Before he had a chance to get any further, however, another blur could be seen as Takeshi surged forwards, grabbing the man's wrist and twisting it hard. Hearing the bone snap, the man dropped his lighter and let out a loud scream of pain. Takeshi kicked out one of the man's knees, causing him to fall forward. At the same time, he swept his leg out, tripping the other man as well. Standing and folding his arms across his chest, Takeshi sighed once more. "Great. Now there's going to be paperwork, and I don't think either of you understand how much I hate paperwork."

It didn't take long for several more guards to run up and apprehend the men and Takeshi watched as they took them away. Picking up one of the bottles, he scratched his chin. "I really do hate paperwork," he muttered.
 
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