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

To the Eastern Front!

[ Somewhere in the Sea ]​
[ Cyrus Saemund | Team Jun ]​


The smell of the salty sea, the winds that blew and sounds of the busy deck. Despite knowing them all well from his upbringing as a Saemund, they always felt welcoming to him. Leaning on the mast, Cyrus just had his eyes closed. He wanted to enjoy the break from the duties he was given on board the ship for the short time he was given. And just staying like that let him enjoy his time off.

"Saemund! Your ten minutes are up, back to work!"

Hearing the call, Cyrus opened his eyes and turned, looking at his superior on the ship. Giving a single, firm nod, he grabbed a couple of buckets and started to fill them with drinkable water. The task he was currently given was a very manual one, but he didn't mind it, along with the other duties. Havarr raised him for sea life, even if he didn't fully adapt for it. He knew how much labour and force required to fully maintain a ship. He knew well just how careful everything needed to be maintained, both the crew and the ship.

With the buckets filled as much as he could carry without spilling any water, Cyrus headed down into one of the lower decks, following a couple of the crew members of the ship. The rowers were all busy with their work as a couple spotted those that came down. "Water time everyone!" One of the crew members called, and the rowers would slow down, before coming to a halt "Last four rows Saemund." He told Cyrus, before stepping aside to let Cyrus go further inside.
"Roger sir." Cyrus said, and walked past him. The many rowers that were sitting were sweating quite a lot, and he was actually surprised that they didn't sweat even more. It didn't feel as cold as it felt on the upper deck. Arriving at the edge, he put down one of the buckets at the end of the small passage in the middle of the rows, before beginning to go between each row, helping those that were conserving their strength, and making sure everyone got a good drink of water. Last thing anyone wanted was for a rower to become dehydrated, especially with how much they were sweating.

It took a good twenty minutes before they were done with making sure every rower got some to drink. Some of the rowers offered a nod of gratitude and some just put their hands back on the rows, ready for the next session of rowing. Cyrus could also hear some hoping it would be time to rest already. He certainly didn't envy them, but it was likely the work that was valued on this type of ship above incredibly highly. When they were done, Cyrus grabbed both buckets, now completely empty, and was the first to go back up. After dropping one of the buckets and knowing what his next duty will be, Cyrus grabbed a brush, put some soup and a bit of water in the bucket he still held, and moved to start brushing away at the deck. It was the duty that he figured he would never see any gratitude for, but his dad always told him 'A clean deck will make for a happier crew'. Not to mention Havarr was never against letting him do some cleaning while they sailed. Always claimed it helped toughen him up some more.
So Cyrus continued performing more duties, as ordered by the captain of the ship.


Night has arrived, and Cyrus was finally off duty for the night. Eating some fish stew that was made using some fish they caught and a couple of vegetables they had. The stew looked horrible, but the taste was decent. Though he always thought that anyone who complained about how food looks should just eat with their eyes closed. Finishing the stew, he put the bowl aside and leaned his head against the mast. The night skies were partially blocked by clouds, but Cyrus could tell the moon was shining brightly.
After stretching, Cyrus took out an envelope. The letter with his first orders as a member of the Kumogakure shinobi corps. He still couldn't believe that his father had managed to pull it off. While he spent a few days with his uncle before the letter arrived, he never expected to be sent out to a war front so quickly. But then again, much like what he witnessed in the battles of Yongai and Kumogakure, he imagined that the war didn't give anyone a luxury of choosing who to send to the war. People would always be needed.

Looking at the name in the letter, Cyrus had already memorized it, but he still looked at it every night since he received the letter. Satoshi Jun. Apparently he was going to be his shinobi team leader, and also the person to approach when he arrived at the eastern front. He wasn't told anything else, only to bring the letter to this Jun, and that any further instructions will come from him from that moment. Putting the letter away, he folded his legs before closing his eyes. He knew that he would likely be woken up early, maybe even before dawn, so he wanted to get as much rest as he could. Before long, he fell asleep.

And he dreamed of what his new team would be like, and the second war he would take part in.
 
Investigation, start!
Niji Yakei, Lightning Dominion's Camp in the East
On a self-imposed mission to get to the root of the seemingly undying enemies that have plagued the allied forces on the battlefields, Niji is collecting information not too long after the large scale conflict had resolved itself. A few questions and an unexpected avenue of investigation later, now she had to get steel herself for the results.

Featuring @Oetje and @Gerontis

The recent battle left Niji tired and wounded, but she couldn't sit around for long before she felt the urge to find something to do whilst she was recovering from the assortment of grazes and cuts she'd received from the initial clash.
The most prominent one being a sizable gash along the outside of her leg, leaving her with quite a limp at the present moment.

An idea had come to mind, taking no small part of inspiration from her lamenting the fact that those brutes they encountered in one of the previous battles seemed to continually regenerate their wounds as they fought whilst injured folk on the allied side had to wait for time to fully recover. In all honesty Niji wasn't a scholar in any way, shape or form, so for the present moment all she would be able to do is collect the information that they had on those things and try to make it as readily available as possible.

After a brief stint of asking around the general camp and thinking back to the meeting that had occurred before the night raid there was a small list of names over who had fought them and what they had done to slay the brutes. Apparently the leader of the Republic camp had fought one, so too had the leader of the Akinian camp, though she was sure she would have to get permission and have a message sent across to see such individuals about this.

The best place to start would be in her own camp, from what she remembered of her own fight with one, Mizuchi and herself whittled it down with persistent attacks.
Two of the others who she knew for certain had fought one was Yumeji Hojo and Harada Toshi, so she'd have to go looking for them and then talk to the commander to see if she was allowed to venture over to the other camps to question their people over how they beat these things.


Sitting on a log, she would repeat the motion slowly and carefully. Gliding the whetstone across the steel edge, she focused on the sound. It helped to ban the horrors that she had sighted before. There was no sensation of pride or victory. The last moments that she had been present on the battlefield was a vision she couldn't forget.
Corpses littering almost as far as the horizon. Twisted, mangled and broken bodies that once were men.

Inhaling slowly, Yumeji repeated the motion again. It was certain that this wouldn't be the last time she would have to fight. But she did silently hoped that the next fight wouldn't be like that of what they just had gone through.

It didn't take too long to locate Yumeji. As busy as the girl seemed with maintaining her sword, Niji slowly limped her way over. "Sergeant Hojo, have you got a moment?" Her tone was tentative as she spoke up, keeping at a reasonable distance so that she wasn't directly in the way in any form.

Hearing somebody calling out her rank and surname, Yumeji glanced up. Recognizing the other, from having served in the same unit during the battle, Yumeji slowly nodded.
"I do." She replied.
Grabbing the piece of cloth that was spread on her knee, Yumeji cleaned her blade before sheathing it. Rising up, she would subtly eye the other. They hadn't exchanged names yet, from what she could recall.
"How can I help you?" Yumeji decided to ask, a faint smile present on her features.

"My name is Niji Yakei. I'm putting together as much information as I can about those large brute-like enemies that were on the battlefield a while back, the ones with the regenerative abilities. I've been told by some soldiers in the camp that yourself and Harada Toshi slew one, so I wanted to confirm your method, as from my experience we killed one through persistent attacks." As she spoke she retrieved some paper and writing tools. "That is, if you recall how you fought yours, it was a hectic battle."

A subtle but yet polite nudge was returned when Niji introduced herself. Yumeji couldn't help but grow curious to what she had done to earn a visit from Niji. Only to wish that she could have been left alone.
The brought up topic brought a cold spin down her spine. Remembering the brutish and nightmarish foe, she would have rather walked away. There had been some nights where she had haunting dreams, only interrupted by waking up in cold sweat.
"I recall." She began, trying to not show herself being uncomfortable.
"Black pitch armour. Almost dark enough to be a hole in the night. If anything, I don't know why I tried to fight it. I suppose bravery can be mistaken for desperation." The last sentence was added with a wry smile.

Pausing for a moment, Yumeji recalled how that fight had went.
"It was certainly no person. I am not the most experienced fighter in this host. But it moved quite fast despite being heavily armoured. Armour doesn't weigh or slow a person that much down but I couldn't get through its armour. Not when I swing hard. Or when I used any ninjutsu to amplify my attacks." Frowning, Yumeji visibly pondered but continued talking.
"I remember that Harada-san aided me. I mostly attempted to form a defense. But those blows." Shaking her head, the features of the young woman started to lose a bit of colour.
"It was like an angry bull was smashing its full weight on to my shield."

It was fairly clear that the longer Yumeji talked about her encounter the worse she felt, it was more than understandable all things considered. Niji made a few notes based on what Yumeji had already said before speaking up. "That's quite similar to my experience, their sheer strength left a… daunting impression of them. If you're too uncomfortable about it to continue then that's alright, there's a couple of people in the camp I've yet to talk to and I'd rather not pressure you like that."

It was tempting to agree. Realising that Niji had no ill intensions also made it difficult. But that feeling was less present than the temptation to not indulge into the current topic any further.
Feeling bad though, Yumeji nodded.
"I am sorry. But I am indeed not fond of recalling that fight. I do hope you will find more fruitful exchanges regarding," she paused for a second, "whatever those things are. If you are in dire need later, I might consider it."
Making a small bow with her head, Yumeji would flash a polite smile.

"I understand, sergeant. Fighting them wasn't a pleasant experience in the slightest. Thank you for what information you've been able to give." A brief bow was given before she continued. "Would you happen to know where Harada-san is? He's next on my list of individuals to talk to."

Relieved, Yumeji would resist to sigh. The question on where she could find Harada Toshi made Yumeji think.
"I am not entirely sure. He is serving in the unit of Sanosuke Miu. I reckon he is stationed into that direction." Yumeji replied, pointing at the direction to their right.
"I overheard some time ago, a person mumbling that he had been requesting tools and what not the last time. Maybe after this last battle, Harada-san is searching again for some more tools and what not."

The smithy was the most likely place to find Toshi then if he was looking for more equipment, Niji gave one final bow of thanks before leaving to track him down. Of course in it being the most likely place to find him, her first stop in this search was the Smithy and armoury.

Both the smithy and armoury bore no signs of Toshi's whereabouts, so he was likely busy elsewhere and wouldn't be able to answer the questions Niji had for him at the moment. Then the next person to talk to on her list would be Satoshi Jun, the commander of their side of the allied forces… With luck he might be able to grant permission to inquire at the other allied camps for further insight, but that could wait until she at least heard some more detail on his experience with these brutes.


Comfortable in the simple but wooden chair, Satoshi listened to the report that came back. It seemed that matters started to become a bit more mundane, with the lack of hostile forces breathing down their neck with overwhelming numbers. Dismissing the officer once he finished his report, Satoshi mulled over the next few matters that kept swimming in the back of his mind.
This continued on for what seemed a few minutes but was actually nearly reaching half an hour. Upon the entry of one of his guards, Satoshi's train of thought was interrupted. A simple request if he could receive a young woman that had some questions for him. The name that was given rang a bell and so Satoshi approved.
Awaiting Niji, Satoshi would briefly struggle but succeed in pushing his previous thoughts aside - for hopefully until the end of this next meeting.

It wasn't too surprising to be let in for questions, but the fact the commander was free right now was remarkably serendipitous. Maybe Niji had gotten the wrong impression of just how busy the life of a commander was…

Regardless she would step in and give a small bow of greeting. "Thank you for seeing me so soon, Commander Jun. I was looking to try and put together an accurate collection of information about the Brute enemies that we've been encountering based on the experiences of those who had directly fought them, for the use of the allied forces to better handle these things. Would you be able to recount what you know about them?"

Nodding as Niji entered and greeted him, Satoshi did approve that the young woman didn't dance around the bush. Slightly leaning back in his seat Satoshi's eyebrows slightly rose when she made it clear that she was curious about the 'brutes'. There were a few matters that raced through the commander's mind but he had a hunch what she meant.
"If you are talking about those oddities that somehow can survive mortal wounds? Then I have some information about them," Satoshi began, "we even have some remains of those brutes. Locked and sealed away, of course, until we get a better understanding of them." Enlisting a pause, Satoshi decided to pose a question in return. "Why the interest in them?"

"The fact that the most I've gotten out of others about them boils down to "Just keep wounding them and they'll eventually fall" and "Inflicting a severe amount of damage in one attack" feels altogether more like tactics made out of desperation than of actual study of how to effectively combat them. I vaguely recall that there was a rare metal that negated their regeneration, it was mentioned during a meeting after one of our larger conflicts, but the details of the metal itself evade me." Niji gave a brief pause to quickly take a look at the notes she made on her talk with Yumeji.

"Additionally, their unnatural agility, their aura and general appearance seemed to greatly affect at least a small number of our troops, including some of the shinobi who have fought them. To the point of one of them visibly struggling to make themselves recall what their experience was like. The chance of encountering more of them in the future means we could end up having heavy losses in morale when even one of them darkens our doorstep again. And I would like to prevent that as best as I can."

Once Niji was done, her words were met with some silence, that continued to plague the inside of the spacious tent for a few seconds. "Dragon steel," Satoshi began, "that is the name of the rare metal. It is indeed quite special and hard to acquire. I have tried myself before this all to acquire a weapon of the metal. But it isn't that simple. However," Satoshi gained a wry smile over his features, "I would love to allow some to delve into this matter. But the risks are unknown yet. Those who have sealed away the remains have reported that there was a certain cold. I haven't inspected myself but it sure ain't pretty stuff."

Becoming silent for a second, Satoshi would straighten his back. "You are right though. If we meet such foes the next time, whether it is a skirmish, operation or battle, we need to have a proper response. Though, I will need to ask. What are you aiming for next? The knowledge that I can offer is limited and not without risks."

After making a note of Dragon Steel and the strange nature of the remains of the things they've fought, Niji bore a pensive expression. She would ask about the remains shortly, but first it was likely best to get her initial plan rolling. "To start, I was considering whether the other allied camps know anything more beyond what I've gotten so far, such as if they've developed any strategies that have proven to have some merit when put to use. That way all sides of this alliance would have a more reliable method for combatting them, especially seeing as we can't just arm everyone in every camp with that Dragon Steel."

Now, Niji gave a more quizzical look. "As for these remains and the…risks. Who has inspected them so far, if anyone?"

He was mildly surprised that she wanted to venture to the allied camps. "I can arrange something, I suppose. If our allies do have more knowledge, I have to yet fathom a reason why they wouldn't share it with us. Only problem is that the Republican force has moved down south. And the Imperials we fought with before, have also been repositioned south. It might take some time before I can give you any permission to meet with the new nearby Imperial forces. Let alone arrange a trek towards the Republicans in the south of the front," Satoshi said, as an answer for what Niji desired as a start.

The second question was one that didn't sit well with Satoshi. "Frankly, no one has yet been exposed to these remains. I took it as the safe route to keep them sealed for now. Until we have figured out more. The initial contact with these remains already seems unfavourable. I was considering volunteers but other matters took my attention."

Progress, albeit with some delays due to the repositioning of the allied camps, was something that Niji was certainly looking for. Even getting started on that avenue was better than none at all in the end.

"Getting started on meeting with the Republicans and Imperials is better than flat out denial, so having to wait isn't too much of a problem in my opinion." She began, raising a brow at the following information pertaining to the remains previously mentioned.
"Volunteers, hmm? That the concern about personal safety surrounding that is to such a degree does necessitate people willingly putting themselves in harms way after all… As imprudent as it may sound, you'll have your first volunteer here then, provided we arrange some certain precautions. Such as establishing a cordoned off, if not secluded area with which to see the objects in question. Even a contingent of guards ready to act in case things turn sour. With something like this, I would wager we cannot be too safe in our preparations. If you wish for some reasoning to my choice, then I want to get to the bottom of what makes these things work before we lose more people to them. And the sooner we have a real solution the better, even if it comes to using their own abilities and methods to fight them."

"That is true," Satoshi responded upon Niji's first comment. Her presenting herself as a volunteer wasn't a surprise but Satoshi wasn't sure if he could put her to something unknown like this. Realising that there wasn't anyone else that had volunteered or shown as much interest, he was aware that he also had little choice. "Very well. I can arrange a team of guards to oversee the matter. Sensory and sealing nin to further dampen anything bad from happening. An area that can be closed off?" Satoshi pondered briefly before continuing. "I can arrange that. That would be the least of the worries."

Her reasoning was something he felt comfortable with. But the fact they were dealing with the unknown did unsettle Satoshi. "I will arrange the chance for you to deal and perhaps uncover some means of these remains. Not to mention, I will let you know when I have managed to arrange something with the Imperials and Republicans. I shall ensure that you're going to be left out of the political slug and what not though."

"Specialist shinobi on hand for extra safety is certainly reassuring, commander. I'll think on some methods to study what we have prior to making any physical contact with it. And if this… test bares fruit, then at the least we'll have more information to work with for the future." There was a sense of accomplishment in getting this kind of answer, along with whatever would ensue upon actually interacting with the remains of these things.

"Ah, and I appreciate not being involved in the political side of the arrangements. I'm definitely no politician. If you wish, I'll make myself scarce so that you can return to work, I'll have to make preparations of my own after all." At that Niji would offer a bow, merely waiting for dismissal for the time being.

Satoshi nodded, though he wasn't sure if he was more curious for what they could uncover. Or if he was more worried about what the knowledge or results could bring. When Niji stated she would make herself scarce, Satoshi once more nodded. "Duly noted. I will make sure that you're soon informed on the progress on my side." With that stated, he would follow it with a subtle gesture that she could take her leave.

With his permission to leave, Niji was quick to let the commander return to his duties and ruminations, after all she had work of her own to do now. It wasn't every day that someone dove into the unnatural so she needed to be prepared for whatever was going to happen from here on out.
 

( Eastern Continent | Camp of the 12th Imperial Brigade )
( Junko Shiroi | Team 9 | 12th Brigade )
Color Code: #7351c4

Upon being greeted by the obvious Hyuuga whom was to be her direct superior, the genin promptly put down her equipment and gave the woman a sharp salute. "Yes Ma'am." Junko had been looking forward to seeing a Hyuuga for the first time in her life. Her father had told her quite a few incredible stories about their legacy and prowess. She counted herself lucky to be working with someone from such a renowned clan within Konohagakure. The similar white hair comparable to her own was unexpected but those eyes were unmistakable and just like how Junko's father described. Void single colored eyes that'd seem to and likely would look straight through you.

She'd drop the salute only once her sergeant had finished speaking and had given her a directive. The genin swiftly went about neatly organizing the gear she'd received in a vacant corner of the tent (happy to hear she wouldn't need it anytime soon), Junko allowed a subtle smile to appear on her face. She'd be going on a mission so soon, the first truly purposeful day of her life. Unsure of what to do with the happiness welling up inside her, the girl squashed it back down till her muted expression returned. Only then did she turn around to face Kyoi Hyuuga once again.

Junko pondered on what might be important to ask. She cupped her own chin with a thumb and pointer finger as she stared blankly at the dirt. The layout of the camp would certainly come with time and wasn't an immediate concern. "I assume the mission briefing will come later so I only have a few questions. First, what are the names of the others within your team? Second, do any of them have any distasteful habits that I should be made aware of? My last question is...when do we head out?" Junko felt no desire for normal introductions for multiple reasons but she wanted to know what kind of people she'd be working with, especially any negatives that could effect results.

@GlitchyBugger
 
Mamoru Senju and Hylli Hyuzu
[ Eastern Continent | 11th Brigade Encampment ]
[ A collab between the amazing @Autumn Song and @RedFox ]
[ After their morning drill, Mamoru notices a newcomer to their camp and decides to approach her to introduce himself and learn something about Hylli as well. What follows is more than Mamoru imagined from the meeting, and the discussion seems to influence the young Senju a lot. ]

​
Mamoru didn't feel particularly rested that morning. It was probably because of the fact that he didn't sleep well after their last operation, just like with the previous one.It looks like this is how it will be, he thought to himself as he got up and grabbed his gear. Getting into it took him only a few minutes and after that, he rushed to his morning drill. He got there just as it was beginning and he quickly found himself a free spot. He was pondering about whether the exercises got easier or he was nearing the point of exhaustion where he simply didn't care and just went through them. Their drill instructor kept barking orders at them and they followed them to the best of their abilities. He was no exception.

Minute after minute were passing, and each movement became increasingly more difficult than the previous one. He gritted his teeth, clenched his fists whenever possible, just to get through it. The cold air created a sharp, stinging feeling on his skin that helped to fully wake him up. He was so focused on doing his best that he completely missed the fact that there were several newcomers to their usual numbers. He only started to notice this towards the end of the exercise, as he started to throw sideway glances towards them. A girl with brilliant white hair that he could not recognize from earlier exercise was standing close to him and he gave her a slight nod with a smile, then went back to focus on the finishing sets of their drill.

The drill was like the previous one: enough to cause Hylli to feel exhausted. In a way, it was nice. It created the idea that she belonged to a cohesive unit. And despite the fact that it was more people than she expected, it made it feel easier to become a number and fall away rather than to be noticed.
At the end of the drill before the group was allowed to disperse Hylli noticed that someone gave her a nod and a smile. Not entirely sure what it should convey, Hylli returned the nod and focused on the last part.
As soon as the end was announced Hylli wanted to remove the chainmail and other heavy equipment to return to something lighter, more comfortable. Remembering the rules, that they were supposed to constantly wear their armour, Hylli released a soft sigh. It was one of the new matters that she had to grow used to. That and not being able to take a bath in private, like at home.
Watching others of the platoon drip in either duos or more away, back towards their tent to rewind, Hylli held a flask. The water wasn't that cool but it was welcome nevertheless. Taking a sip, she took a mental note when sighting some of the sergeants and the respective lieutenant.

When they were finished and the group dispersed, he dropped into a squat and used his bandaged hand to support himself as he was catching his breath. The group dispersed rather quickly and only a few of them remained, mostly persons trying to catch their breaths or debating with each other. The sergeants and lieutenants conducting the drill left, being greeted by their subordinates they spent the last hour and a half yelling at. But they all knew it was for the best. He too was thankful for these drills, for their helped him to prepare for what awaits them. He noticed the girl he smiled at remained behind as well and after taking a few deep breaths, he stood up and slowly walked over her.

" Hey there! May I ask, are you newly assigned here? Usually people just leave from here, but seeing a new face is rather rare here. He stood a few steps away from her, hoping he didn't disturb her from her thoughts. Than he realized he didn't introduce himself properly." My name is Mamoru, Mamoru Senju! Eleventh brigade, member of Team 4 under Meilin Cho! Pleased to meet you!"

Twisting her head as the guy from before approached her, Hylli recognised him as the guy that gave her the smile and nod. As he spoke Taika, she remained silent for a good few seconds. "Hello. Pleasure to meet you," she started, slightly amused as he stated what brigade he was part of. Weren't they all here part of the 11th brigade? Shaking the question and amusement off, she would speak again.
"Hylli Hyuzu, pleasure to meet you," Hylli continued, "I am kind of new here, yeah. Arrived some days ago. Then I learned that I was transferred to the brigade." Briefly, Hylli considered something.
"So you are with Team 4, yes? I already met Aoi of the Miyazato. And Dagrún. The Ylfling of House Tryvvge."

He felt his stomach twist and churn at the mention of the newcomer, Hylli, speaking with Aoi before he could. He wanted to do so since Operation Dirty Blades. Pushing the thought to the back of his mind, he let a small smile settle on his lips." Yes, I am the latest addition to Team 4. Joined them shortly before we were shipped. I don't know them that much yet, there is not really time for small talking with - with." He searched for the right words, but after they eluded him for a few seconds, he just gestured at anything around them. He could not bring himself to talk about what he experienced so far. '' With this going on around us. But I know I can trust them. And that's all that matters. Have you met Lieutenant Meilin yet?" He asked, slowly closing the last few steps between them.

Hylli frowned slightly but wouldn't attempt to finish Mamoru's sentence. When he gestured to their surrounding, she had a hunch what he meant. When he asked if she had met the lieutenant yet, a wry smile flowed on Hylli's lips. "No, not in person. But she seems to do well with leading the drills." Hylli politely replied on turn. "So you would say that the current time has been stressful?" She politely asked, only to continue. "Not that I can help with anything. This is my first time being deployed, after all."

Mamoru let out an exhausted sigh and nodded. His mind was suddenly filled with images from their previous mission, the one before, to his first kill, to being shipped out, to saying goodbye to his parents before his Ardara mission." Y-yes. It is safe to say that I've never been through anything like this. Not even close to. And I - I don't know. I've seen things I only heard in horrific war stories. And now - His voice was becoming weaker as he spoke, and than he just remained silent. He looked at Hylli and attempted a smile." And now, I'm in one of them. They - I mean the stories, as a kid, I found the protagonists as heroic. I admired them. But now - I am not sure whether my past self would be proud l. But orders are orders. I'm sorry, I - I rambled a bit. Are you nervous about the deployment?"

It was clear that the Senju was troubled. But Hylli remained polite, folding her hands in front of her stomach and allowing Mamoru to say what he wanted. But she offered no respite, for she knew that she couldn't offer any. It did spark a curiosity if Senju had any worthy tales to tell. For she had nothing more than the few that she had been taught at the Academy.
"No," the answer was firm and radiated a certain pride - or arrogance. "I am more than eager to delve into the fray. I doubt that I can match the legends of the sagas that I grew up with. But I am more than willing to test my mettle against the upcoming foes."

Pausing for a second, Hylli lightly shrugged. "I don't reckon I won't perhaps piss myself. But there comes a time where everyone is facing something they dread or fear. No shame in that, I was taught. Only as long as I dare to hold my head high and keep my ground."

When she spoke, Mamoru felt slightly irritated and repulsed by her arrogance for a fleeting second. With those feelings passed, he was curious about what granted Hylli such confidence. Perhaps she's incredibly talented and skilled? Or she has a plethora of experience from before, during missions?Or perhaps she's not so full of doubt as you are, dummy. This thought gave him the answer." Perhaps we won't be able to surpass our ancestors, but that does not mean we should not try. I think it would make them proud, you know? Seeing us doing our best to live up to them, to grow past them. As he spoke those words, the image of the First Hokage looking over Konoha flashed in his mind, and he briefly remembered the times he used to sit on the statue.

" Holding your head up high, standing strong in face of the unknown is, perhaps, the only way to remain the same in face of the adversity we are facing here. I would like to leave this place the way I arrived, both in body and mind. The first one is possible, the second one - I lost that illusion after our first mission. Indeed, there is no shame in dreading or fearing things. But what if the thing one dreads or fears is what he is becoming?"

"I suppose that is true, yeah." Hylli smiled as Mamoru finished. "Though why should we hold ourselves accountable by our ancestor's deeds? I have yet to receive Valdar or Signý's blessing. So I can't yet dream to hope to emulate or surpass my ancestors' feats." The Hyuzu nodded slightly.
"I too would like to survive. It is on the top of my to do's. To get home without losing a limb. Perhaps a scar as a trophy would be nice. To tell at dark nights, in nice company and at the fire."

When Mamoru posed a question, Hylli slightly frowned. "If one is dreading that they are becoming what they fear, then I suppose they should try to seek some sort of solace. Perhaps why they have become what they feared?" Hylli answered, only to continue. "So, what do you fear of becoming?"

Mamoru could not help but smile slightly at Hylli's words. Being judged by the standards of days long since passed was not making sense." We should not be held accountable based on their deeds, I agree with you. We live different times, were raised by different standards. In regards to the blessings you mentioned. I'm yet to receive the blessing from my ancestors, namely from the First Hokage or the Sage, yet. But - I have been thinking. What if our great ancestors will bless us in the time of need? By being blessed by the heroes of the past, we are given a chance, a chance that might come only once in a lifetime to become legends as well. That is, if we can rise up with the challenge.

The Senju chuckled a bit as she spoke about making it home, with all her limbs and perhaps a scar for impressive story telling at nights. He was than faced with the question that he didn't dare to ask himself yet. He frowned a bit and let out a deep sigh before replying." It is more about fearing the fact that I might not become what I want to become. I saw people taking lives without a second of hesitation. I know that there is no place for niceties here. It is either kill, or be killed. By failing to do my duty, I put my teammates, my comrades, my clan and perhaps even the Empire I swore loyalty to, at risk. And I view that as failing. Failing to become what I want to be. Tell me, did you ever heard about the Great Tree?"

Hylli's lips slightly parted. It seemed that her first response had been received differently than what she had tried to convey. But she would remain silent, respectfully allowing Mamoru to speak further. It did feel slightly odd to discuss matters of ancestorship with a Taika.
"The Great Tree?" Hylli said, a frown forming on her brow. She had her reasons to avoid talking about killing. Her philosophy was likely much different than the Senju's. Perhaps due to a religious or clanistic difference?
"I have not, no." Hylli continued, wondering briefly if the Senju followed a similar belief like her people did. But she doubted that was the case. "But if you desire to speak of it, I have a moment." The Hyuzu politely stated, waiting for what this 'Great Tree' could entitle.

Mamoru felt a slight relief wash over him as he mentioned the Great Tree. He took a deep breath and sat down next to Hylli, thinking about how to word his idea." The Great Tree. Where to start with it. We Senju believe we are connected with nature itself. All of us, and in different ways. Some even say that we Senju came from the mud or trees of the forests. We take great pride in this tradition, and I am no exception. My father spent a lot of time with me in our forests during my upbringing. We would spend days there. He taught me about nature and why is it important for us to protect it, to cheris and nurture it. Frankly, I don't remember all of it - most of it, but the idea, as to say, took roots in me."

He took a deep breath, and upon brief consideration he decided to continue.'' We are a very traditional family in this regard. When I was shipped, I was forced to - to take my first life. I know that it is unusual to fret about it much, but it - it was rather hard for me. I did not want to think about it as mere killing - I did what had to be done to protect my team, my family back in Konoha, and the Empire as well. I like to think about it that way, at least. I made up my mind back then that for every life I took, every life I severed from nature, I want to give something back. I want to plant a tree for every life I take. And at the - the middle of what I will create will be a Great Tree. Me. Trees are more than just wood and leaves for us. Trees provide us with food, material to build our homes, to protect ourselves. The roots of the tree can hold the earth together via its roots, let's say during some calamities. And the branches can provide shade in sunny days. Trees aid and protect. And I want to be this - this Great Tree for my friends and family. I want to help them, support and protect them. I - I hope it makes some sense." He finished speaking, with a slight blush on his face as he spoke about his way of thinking, and awaited her reply, with a nervous feeling growing inside him.

Hylli listened to what Mamoru said. She wouldn't judge the Senju or their origin story. Nor the fact that he had worried about taking a life. If it was something so easy, then Hylli wondered why anyone had to receive training. But keeping her opinion and thoughts to herself, Hylli just listened.
The whole analogy of what trees posed and were able to provide made Hylli wonder if Senju took their trees perhaps a tad too precious. "You want to help your friends, that makes sense," Hylli replied, a polite smile briefly adorning her lips. She found the whole story not much to her taste. Yet, it wasn't like her opinion would matter on it anyways.
"I do hope you won't grow some bark then. That sounds amazingly frustrating and annoying," Hylli continued, "but admirable ritual. Planting a tree." Having sighted the blush, she decided it would be best to just steer away from the topic. If anything, Hylli didn't feel much to discuss their beliefs anyways.

"And have you managed to see much of this continent? Or traveled to other places, perhaps before being deployed on this campaign?" Hylli decided to ask.

He had to chuckle at her remark of not growing any bark. Upon reflecting above everything he just told Hylli. Would there be another chance to talk about it, he probably wouldn't do so. But he had to admit that it was a relief that he could share his idea with someone else. When she spoke up, it was to a different topic and he was glad to continue in this new direction." As for this continent, not really. I am enjoying the climate and - well, you know, the scenery. I spent most of my time around and in Konoha. The most beautiful place I travelled to is probably Keishi, when I was about five and then during my Academy years, back before Akino was formed. But other than that, we preferred the wilderness before cities. The farthest we went was a four month journey towards Yoskuke Bay, the year before I joined the Academy. We visited Keishi again, on both legs of the trip. That time, I appreciated the beauty of it even more. After that, there weren't any opportunities to travel. That's about it. How much have you seen from this world? Anything you remember in particular?

Truth be told, Hylli felt a twinge of envy. For she couldn't state she had travelled much. And when the moment came that Mamoru returned the question, Hylli gained a wry smile on her face. "Sadly, I haven't travelled much outside of the compound of my clan and kin. Konohagakure was the farthest I had been or, at least, can remember before being sent here." Gesturing with her left arm, she would continue. "I do have a few places that I desire to visit. But other than that? I must admit that I am easily content with not having seen everything. Sometimes it is better to keep the mystery and magic intact than to be disappointed, I have been told."

Pausing Hylli threw a glance to the right for a second. "But, I honestly can't complain. I like being deployed, so far. Nothing bad has happened but I have gained the chance to meet with some individuals that I wouldn't see at my clan's compound."

Mamoru pondered upon the words of the Hyuzu, and there was some truth to it. It was sometimes better to leave certain places to your imagination, as was with certain things. But he personally always felt that the places he visited lived up to, or even surpassed his expectations." I see. Well, I agree about keeping the mystery. I am also content with what I saw so far, but I do wish to make the trip into Keishi one more time, this time with me taking my father, in a way he can just enjoy it without having to be responsible for everything. But I do think that the lands around your compound have a lot to offer as well. As for Konoha, well - I always tell people that home is home. I could spend days, just sitting atop the Hokage monument, taking all the surroundings in.``

He then thought about being deployed, and what Hylli had to say about it. He frowned a bit, but shook his head in agreement." I think I know what you mean. I am glad for the opportunity to meet so many people from various clans, despite not always receiving kind words for - you know, being a Taika. In a way, it motivates me even more to keep giving my best, so that people would acknowledge that I am not defined by that one word. But, hey - on the bright side, I wanted to travel and see the world as well. And now, I have the opportunity to do so! The locals are a mixed bag on receiving our visit, but I can't complain so far!" He really hoped Hylli would get the joke he attempted to make at their current predicament.


"Keishi? Not me," Hylli said. "I rather venture out to some other regions and cities. Such as the lands of Framí. I am quite intrigued by those folk who reside there." Hylli said. She raised a right hand and scratched her neck, briefly.
"Various clans? Most people here hail from the Vythling dominated areas. Aside from the Scyldings, but I suppose those are eager to fight alongside either Ylfings or Vythlings. Or just in general," Hylli said, a slight amusement ringing in her voice as she further responded.

Listening to her reply, Mamoru briefly pondered on her response. He nodded in acknowledgment - the region of Framí was renowned far and wide for its beauty." So do I heard. I too would like to have the opportunity to explore that region as well. Perhaps one day I'll have the opportunity." Than she talked about the clans and cultures composing the fighting units and he kind of just shrugged as a response." I suppose you're right. Well, I guess what matters the most is that we can trust each other here. As long as I know that, I am going out there with a feeling of having my back covered. It doesn't, or probably shouldn't matter where we come from, as long as we fight for the same cause - don't you agree?"

The question if she agreed wasn't met with an immediate answer. For a second, Hylli threw a look at their right - back at the place where the platoon had conducted their morning drills. "No, I don't." Hylli stated, settling her attention back at the Senju. He seemed a tad too idealistic, in her opinion. Not that she considered it bad but she couldn't agree with his opinion or vision. "I am willing to fight and bleed for the good cause. But that won't make me trust others that easily. From where I come from, trust is earned with deeds. Not just given because we rally to the same flag or bear the same uniform. You hardly know me, so why would you trust your back to me? I could very well despise your clan and folk. So no," Hylli shook her head lightly, "I don't tend to just trust people like that."

The response caught Mamoru off guard. He felt as if a whip cracked close to him, too close to striking him. He looked at Hylli, not in disbelief, not in shock. Perhaps it was a combination of all of the above, or perhaps a completely blank look. He understood her reasoning, but he could not convince himself to like it, let alone support it. For him, trusting Dagrún, Aoi, Meilin or Madoc came without question, almost naturally. He knew they might not feel the same way about him, and he was determined to earn that trust. At least on that, the young Senju agreed with the Hyuzu." I - I understand. True, I hardly know you. But I would trust you with my back. Even if you would happen to despise me, my people, my clan. If someone I trust decides to stab me in the back I trust him to protect, he's free to do so. My trust towards him is gone. And not just mine. Anyone with a sense of honor will turn his back to a man who lacks honor. And if I somehow make it out I - I want to know why. I want to understand, so maybe I can forgive. But I won't forget." Mamoru replied, his eyes narrowing slightly.

There wasn't any or much shift in Hylli's body language or facial features. As the conversation seemed to grow more intense, the Hyuzu simply watched and listened to the Senju. It became to the point that she felt little to air her opinion, for there wasn't an understanding between them. Not yet, perhaps, she would muse to herself.
"That is good to know," Hylli said, her tone casual, "I do suppose that I should be on my way. It was a pleasure to meet you, Senju," Hylli said as she took a step back, making a subtle but small nod with her head before turning around on her heels to head back to the tent where she had her possessions.

Mamoru observed Hylli, eager to gauge her reply to his words. But to his surprise, there was nothing to gauge. His face softened up though, realizing she was not the one he should address these words towards. As she got up and made a nod, he stood up as well, returning the small nod. Something told him that despite the way their meeting ended, she is not the one for who he has to be on the lookout for.'' Understandable, there is a lot to be done. The pleasure was mine, Hylli. I guess we'll bump into each other again. He ramined sitting on the field for a minute or two, looking into the direction she went. Slowly getting up, he went off towards his Team's tent as well, his thoughts swirling in his mind.
 
Two to the Test - part 1
[ Kirigakure - Training Fields ]
[ Team Hayashi - A collab @BlueFlameNikku , @SilverPaw and @Lesli ]
[ The first team training occurs, where Neime dedicates some time to train Sugi. However, as the two are about to start the training, another one joins the fray! ]


Waiting at the meeting point that she had set, the entrance of the training fields, Neime thought back to the previous mission. Everything had been handled fine and quite according to the book. But it just showed that playing by the rules didn't work if an outside force meddled. And while they had every excuse to not take the blame, Neime felt still responsible for not being able to prevent what had occured.
The recent events of Kirigakure started to become more grim. In Neime's opinion, the change of regime certainly didn't seem to help. For she had seen too little yet to have confidence in the ability of the current regime.
Pushing her thoughts away, Neime crossed her arms and leaned back against the wood of the fence behind her.

On his way to the meeting spot Sugishimo thought back on his first mission. In the end of things it was a failure. The visceral execution of their captive only served to prove that the now dead man retained important information that they'd lost. It is a shinobi's job to expect the unexpected. Most of Sugi's family and neighbors were just happy to see that he himself wasn't injured on his first assignment. The young genin took the whole thing as a wake up call to the dangers he'd face in the future. He couldn't expect his beginning missions as a genin to be simple and straightforward, like rescuing pets from trees or protecting people from highwaymen. After taking a mental note to be more perceptive and engage while on a mission, the genin rounded the last corner before he reached the entrance to the training fields.

With a quick hustled jog Sugi stopped by Neime's side with a neutral expression on his face. "Neime senpai." He said in greeting. The boy was curious as to why the chuunin wanted to meet by the training fields. Either their mission took place around this area or they were actually gonna do some training. The latter thought made Sugi excited but he didn't let it rise to the surface, tempering his expectations.

Noticing Sugi approaching, Neime pushed her back from the post. "Sugi, on time. Good, many squad leads and the like have a huge disdain towards latecomers," Neime said. Gesturing the genin to follow her, she would continue to brief in what they were going to do today.
"We will do some training. There is already another mission planned for us. But I managed to pull a few strings to arrange a day to schedule some training. We first will go over some basics. Then we will work a bit on stealth and tracking." Pausing, Neime came to a slow halt as they entered the middle of a field. "There is a small problem that your elemental affinity is quite different than mine, if the profile matches correctly. But I got something that we can work on at the end."
Waiting for a second, she would place her hands on her hips. "Any questions or remarks before we begin?"

Sugi smiled casually as he scratched at the back of his neck while being praised for his punctuality. He'd always just seen being on time as a factor of his daily routine. After all, helping out his neighbors as early as he does tended to make him not late for things later in the day. "Heh, thanks Neime senpai." The genin responded before promptly following along.

He listened with excitement at the confirmation of training in addition to another mission. A smile appeared on the genin's face, particularly when Neime mentioned she'd personally pulled some strings to arrange some official time to train. As they neared the middle of the field Sugi thought about the segmented parts of training. It just sounded like it'd be a rehash of academy training for the most part. Aside from whatever Neime has in mind in regards to his elemental affinity. The mentioning of his profile made him squint in slight annoyance.

The genin made sure to step in front of Neime when she questioned him, he certainly had some remarks. "I don't mean any offense Neime senpai but down by the docks we've got a saying. You can say you pulled in a good haul all you want but the proof is in your net." Sugishimo thought about what he'd said for a moment before he shook his head. "Why does that always sound better whenever Mr. Fujima says it? Anyways, what I mean to say is, can't we do something a little more...telling? That way you'd get a better understanding of my capabilities. A profile doesn't tell you if someone is good at thinking on their feet or has good control over their emotions out in the field." In addition to not wanting more simplistic academy like training, the genin had a desire to prove that he wouldn't be a liability in future missions. Just as he felt he was during his first mission when the unexpected murder occured.

It was another day at the barracks for Sana. She was well settled into the routine by now, though she couldn't help the occasional stray thought as she wondered when she would be assigned to a team. Despite that, it was certainly unexpected when one of her superiors marched to her, and ordered her to follow. It was a short way to the office, where she was debriefed on her assignment.​

"Team 19 has applied for a day off to train, but they – and you – will soon be assigned a mission. It was decided you best join them now. You best take this opportunity to bond with your team-mates," the man ordered. He then handed her a document, which Sana looked over and memorized on the spot. It contained basic information on her commander-to be and team-mate. The pink-haired girl was surprised to see that her superior was younger than herself. Impressive.​

"Thank you, sir. I shall be off to report to my new team leader," she said, handing the document back. She saluted with a brief "Sir!" and departed, leaving the barracks. Sana then jogged to the training fields; the location she was told to seek out. When she arrived, she saw her team-mates were both already there and in the middle of conversation.​

She approached briskly. "Good day. I have been just assigned to your team and directed to train with you. I am Sana Hirai, and I am pleased to meet you," she introduced herself with a curt bow, then glanced from person to person. She had already been informed of their names, but it seemed proper to leave them the opportunity to return her courtesy, if they so chose.​

The request of Sugi was met with a neutral expression. In truth, Neime could understand why he had requested such a matter. But the truth was that genin were genin. The usual research and observations that were made pointed out to flaws and strengths. As Neime's lips parted, someone approached them - causing her to focus her attention on the newcomer.
Slightly frowning as Sana introduced herself, Neime wasn't surprised or in any sense feeling negative. It wasn't too strange that the brass had made a decision and that at the last moment, it would go into effect.
"Welcome to the team, Sana Hirai. I am Neime Hayashi, the current squad lead." Neime opted to let Sugi introduce himself. But Neime did wager that Sugi wanted a response to his request.
"Seems that does change the plans, a little," Neime continued, throwing them both a glance. "How about we first introduce ourselves proper? Explaining what we are specialised in. From that, I will try to conjure a proper training session for the both of you."

Deciding to go first, Neime wasn't a huge fan of this particular kind of meeting. She understood that it was a necessity that a team was aware of what another could do. Yet, it always felt off to just spout one's abilities to someone that could only fall back on; "I am your comrade."

"I am from the Hayashi clan. My affinity is Scorch Release. But I also am able to perform some fire techniques. I have specialised myself mostly in the use of stealth and close quarter combat. Though I know some tricks to deliver a few attacks on a longer range." Pausing, she doubted they were interested in what she did to kill the time or what her favorite dish was. "Aside from that, I have only recently joined the Republican military. I was part of the Hayashi clan's force and served most of my time there. But here I am today. So, who is going next?"

Sugi turned to face the newcomer as Neime did. Having no memory of this new face, the boy was caught off guard by how strikingly beautiful she was. This Sana had the look of a female supporting lead in a novel. His expression was clear yet subdued as he looked the kunoichi over for a moment before introducing himself. He gave a respectful bow as he spoke out clearly. "I'm Sugishimo Masageru. I hope we can work well together." The genin's expression brightened up as it sounded like the intended training would be changed up after all. Continuing to listen to the teams new course of actions, being a roundabout introduction of one another. "Scorch release...sounds intense." The genin let the words slip subconsciously.

After Neime finished, the boy spoke up. "Suppose I should go next then. I ain't a part of any kind a clan really. Born and raised dockside within Kirikagure." He spoke his first few lines with a sense of pride but there was also a tinge of something else hidden in his tone, something negative. "I specialize in water release jutsu and genjutsu techniques. I tend to strategize and keep my opponents guessing. I've got a knack for reading people and deceiving them as well. I got high marks for being stealthy back at the academy in addition to actually spending time in the library." After all that Sugi felt he'd shared what he needed to. Not wanting to bring up his first mission with Neime.

Sana nodded as her team-mates introduced themselves. She was intrigued by the mention of Scorch release – who wouldn't be? – and noted that both Neime and Sugishimo mentioned they were good at stealth. Neither of them shared her chakra nature either; while the variety was good for facing against enemies, it might make training a bit more difficult. Probably the oddest thing that stood out to her was that Sugi said he was good at deception – not because it was an odd trait per se, but because she found it somewhat incongruous that he admitted it so honestly.​

When her fellow shinobi finished their introduction, Sana spoke up. "I do not hail from a clan, either, though my father is part of the military," she said. "So was my mother," she added, but didn't elaborate on the past tense, thinking it self-evident. Besides, even this much she wasn't sure if it was actually relevant. "I have an affinity for Lightning release, and I specialize in kenjutsu. I always got good grades when it came to chakra control as well," she summarized. And since the other two had revealed more than the bare-bones basics, so did Sana.​

"My instincts are pretty sharp, so I tend to react first, think later," she admitted with a light shrug of a shoulder. The kunoichi was aware the latter wasn't always a good trait, but it was an important characteristic of hers. Certainly one her team-mates should know about. As they were all done with the intro now, she expectantly looked towards Neime, eager to see what her senpai came up with for training. Would it be a spar or something else? Either way, Sana would be thrilled to participate; she liked training, especially when it involved cooperating with or competing against others.​

Listening to the genin, Neime held her opinion for herself. The subtle slip from Sugi made the Hayashi briefly smile, yet her expression swiftly turned neutral afterwards. It became painfully clear that neither genin had a knack for the elements she had mastered, so far.
"Very well. That was great. Now that is done, we can get to our training." Neime began, "I was going to do some basic training. However, where is the fun in that?"​

Throwing a subtle glance at Sugi, Neime placed her hands on her hips. "Let us start with a simple exercise. Allowing me to gauge how well you guys do with a stressful situation." Dropping the coat that she had over her protective vest, Neime would keep the orange coloured sash around her waist. "You two will need to work together to undo my sash. You got around three hundred seconds to do so. This may seem a bit unrealistic but believe me," the tone of Neime became sharper, "it isn't too far from reality. You may find yourself with an ally trying to pin down an enemy. And that enemy might just be trying to stall in order to hold out for reinforcements. Now," the Hayashi took some steps away as she threw a glance at each genin. "I can understand that this might be exciting. This isn't some Academy spar. But we will go with some rules. Nothing lethal. The moment I will spot that either of you will utilize something I consider over the top. I will put this exercise to a halt and we will be doing basic training, all day. So let us prevent aiming at the head or use anything that can result in grim wounds, okay?"

Flashing a smile, Neime would pose the seal of confrontation. "Ready? Go."

Ah, so it was to be the standard genin-against-their-leader spar. Get the sash, huh? Sana gripped the handle of her weapon, the Spiritkeeper, gaze affixed to their mock-enemy, and returned the seal of confrontation. "You try to figure out something good while I distract her," she muttered to Sugi. He had just said he was good at plans, after all, and the pink-haired girl assumed he needed a bit of time to come up with one. Observing – or in Sana's case, experiencing – Neime's skills would be a good idea, even if they only had five minutes all in all to complete their task.​

Moving in front of Sugishimo so that Hayashi's gaze would be drawn to her, Sana's fingers crept into one of her bags. She unsheathed her katana with her right hand, while her left swiftly attached two shuriken to a couple of wires. Then, she swiftly threw the projectiles – each to one sides of her ribs, where they could loosen the sash if they hit – and dashed straight at Neime afterwards.​

Her left joined her right at the sword's handle, and she angled Spiritkeeper so its blade was pointing backwards, its sharp edge facing up. Sana kept watching Hayashi, mainly to see how she'd react to her attacks. If her senpai simply avoided the shuriken, she could soon use them as a follow up, as long as the wires remained attached. Other than that, the genin was closing the distance between them. Once she was far enough that Spiritkeeper's tip could reach the chuunin without being able to lethally damage her, Sana would skid to a stop. She would put her momentum into a half-turn, and perform a diagonal slice; cutting from bottom-right to middle-left, aiming for the orange sash. If she had the opportunity to do so, she'd also pull on the wires wrapped around the fingers of her left hand and direct the attached shuriken towards her opponent's lower back.​

Sugi smirked with joy at the notion that they were gonna do a kind of sparring exercise after all. The objective was clear enough. Removing their senpai's sash was the goal and no super lethal or over the top things were in play. The genin continued thinking over the rule parameters that would limit his options.

He'd return the seal of confrontation but before he could say anything Sana said and went about exactly what he was going to suggest. The boy shook away his surprised expression and replaced it with a smile of conviction. "Alright, you got it. Buy me at least one minute." Sugishimo waited until Sana stepped between himself and Neime, thus blocking him from her sight. He spoke more softly this time with an eerily calm tone. "If you trust me, I'll trust you." He spoke those words of parting just before Sana headed off. While his partner worked on keeping their senpai's attention, Sugi started off by weaving the hand seals for a hiding in the mist jutsu. Utilizing the heavy amount of moisture already present in the surrounding air, the genin filled the surrounding area with a heavy layer of mist. With that Sugi stepped backwards effectively masking himself within it.

He figured the mist wouldn't hinder Sana much since she'd likely keep in close proximity with Neime. Utilizing the time given to him, Sugi took a knee within the mist and started to think up a plan or two. He'd immediately throw out ideas that required too much set up, they didn't have the time for that. No lethal or over the top measures could be taken. The goal was the sash anyways so we just have to either trick or hinder Neime senpai long enough for the sash to be loosened or ripped away. Neime was well aware of Sugi's use of genjutsu and in turn she made it clear that she was an expert in stealth. The genin's options grew thinner by the second. Realizing his self allowed time was almost up he settled on a plan of action with a contingency. They were only gonna have one shot at this so the genin was prepared to go all out. Listening to the sounds of combat between the two kunoichi, Sugi formed the tiger seal and created a single water clone from the surrounding mist. Which did cause it to thin a bit. He'd then have the water clone stealthy position itself towards Neime's left flank while the real Sugi would lay in what around the chunnin's rear flank, waiting patiently for an opening.

Watching for a moment, Neime held the seal of confrontation. Watching the shuriken soar towards her, the chuunin evaded to the right with a quick skid as her hands shot together. Forming the Tiger seal, Neime inhaled - seemingly not bothered as Sana closed in.
Only when Neime exhaled, a large cloud of hot ash and smoke would be expelled - effectively clouding both Sana and Neime.

All of Sana's attacks and efforts literally withered to ashes as Neime performed the Hiding in Ash and Dust technique. The genin hissed at the head, reflexively covering her face with her sword-hand, while her left retrieved the shuriken that'd hit nothing and continued sailing towards her. She evaded backwards; thankfully for her, Sugi's created mist was waiting for her, and that was where she took refuge. The Hiding in Mist was a Water Release technique after all, so did a fair job at countering her senpai's Fire Release one.​

Problem was, Sana needed to find Neime, and the chuunin could be just about anywhere by now. Feeling distinctly unpleasant at the fact that her back was unprotected and that she had no idea where either Hayashi or Sugishimo were, Sana nonetheless decided to try and do something about the ash cloud first. She stored the two shuriken and wires, and gripped her katana in both hands. Closing her eyes to focus and listen – sight was useless right now in any case – Sana swung Spiritkeeper with the full force of her body. The idea was to create a mild flow of wind (through strength rather than chakra) from where the mist was to where the ashes were.​

Dammit! Sugi cursed in his head as Neime's smokescreen within a smokescreen maneuver would cause him to rethink his strategy and do it quickly. His eyes darted back and forth as the ideas flooded his mind, filtering the good, the bad and the stupid. They had to flush Neime out of there and catch her as they did so. But there had to be something else done that would hinder their senpai long enough for the sash to be grabbed. The genin's head jolted upwards as he'd made his countermeasures, a wicked grin on his face.

Keeping his clone in hiding for now, Sugi leaped up onto a nearby branch and used it as a springboard so as to jump a ways above the clear cloud of ash and dust within the mist. In mid flight the genin unfurled the large scroll upon him back, his pond scroll. After turning it upside down so that it faced downwards, he put his hand on the proper place and activated the item. A pond's worth body of water would come spilling out of the scroll falling downwards in a dome or umbrella like shape as it was pushed out. The aim was more than to just push Neime out of her ash cloud. The higher purpose was to narrow down where she would emerge from. With the top and one side being acted on with Sana's aid, Sugi's water clone could set the trap more effectively, having to watch fewer exit points. The clone made the two hand seals for one of Sugi's most familiar jutsu. If Neime would exit the ash cloud away from the two real genin, the hiding clone would emerge from within the mist and attempt eye contact so as to snag Neime in a demonic illusion: hell viewing technique. The hope being that the jutsu would hinder the chuunin if only for a few mere seconds so that someone could retrieve the sash. The mist would be noticeably thin at this point as Sugi's chakra reserves would start to wane.

The smokescreen would be repelled by the efforts of both genin. As the water drove the ash away, two figures would dive out of the screen. Now facing the genin, two Neimes seemed to be on the defensive - as quite agitated about the fact they were now soaked. Using a tree to cover their back, the chuunin and likely a clone awaited what the genin would be doing next.
 
[ Eastern Continent | Border of Lagyre ]
[ A Genjutsu Training | A collaboration post between @Lesli and @Autumn Song ]
[ Hylli is introduced to the foundations of genjutsu by Aiko. The Cho explains in a simple yet effective manner to the genin of what genjutsu is composed. And introduces her as well to the basic of advanced genjutsu, which denies the opponent the 'traditional' ways of combating it. ]


Jogging to the meeting spot, Hylli felt her stomach slightly turning. In truth, she had been looking forward to training and worked underneath someone of Aiko's calibre. The fact that she could call the woman as her mentor was something that terrified and humbled Hylli. Not just because of the political influence that the woman held but also her reputation as a kunoichi - her various feats worth of rivalling the likes of highly dangerous individuals.
Noticing the training field up ahead, Hylli slowed down upon seeing Aiko.
"Lady Cho! Ma'am!" The Hyuzu began, hesitating on what to call her mentor and superior. Once the words left her lips, she would make a deep bow towards the woman.

Watching some people train, Aiko was locked in her thoughts. In truth, she wasn't discontent about the current situation. Knowing what part she had to play to secure her ambitions and goals, it required her to do her ongoing tasks. Only when someone addressed her rather formally, Aiko would twist her head, and half turn around, facing who had approached her.
"Ah, Hylli. Good. Now that you're here, we can start the training." Gesturing the Hyuzu to follow her, Aiko spoke further to the genin. "As you can imagine, I don't have much time on my hands to fully oversee your training. But I hope that you manage to meet already some of the people that I suggested before?"

Smiling as Aiko spoke, Hylli nodded. Following the woman, Hylli would offer a response on her turn. "Oh yes. I have met already some of the people. The people of Team 4 have proven to be most enjoyable as helpful. Most out of all their chuunins. I don't think that I match their genin in terms of idealogy. But we don't clash, so I suppose that is good enough," Hylli began, "I have enjoyed most spending time with their Dowhon member, Dagrún. Though I did wish that I would stop failing so hard." The last sentence being more mumbled than said out loud.

Listening to what Hylli told her, Aiko was content. Typically, she would have invested time and effort to train the genin more on herself than to let Hylli try to find some training from other people. But this situation wasn't exactly the norm, so it required a different approach. Satisfied that the Hyuzu had enough spirit and confidence to seek out Team 4 and their help, Aiko wouldn't further mull on the thought.
"Don't worry too much about it. You are a genin. I would be most surprised if you were to succeed in everything," Aiko replied, "besides, you have shown already some exceptional skills. Even if Kazumo managed to beat you or not to be able to succeed at every test or task."

Arriving at an empty tile, Aiko gestured Hylli to enter it before she would do herself. "Today, I want to start some genjutsu training. And maybe we will have time for something else." Pausing for a second, Aiko continued. "You may have noticed, but during the spar against Kazumo, he had a constant upper hand against you. With luring you into striking and opening yourself for his attacks, through illusions. But I also noticed that you employed a genjutsu of your own against him. Tell me, what exactly do you know about genjutsu as a whole?"

Aiko's words were comforting. Even if Hylli felt that she could do better or should strive to do better, it felt good to hear that she wasn't doing as wrong as she thought herself. The instruction to tell Aiko what she knew about genjutsu made Hylli subtly nod before she began.
"In short? Genjutsu is one of the main fields, which, unlike ninjutsu, doesn't involve directly harming your target. It is to use illusions to get an advantage, extract intel or create a way to escape a dangerous situation." Pausing, Hylli did dig a little into her mind. "I would also state that genjutsu relies a lot on knowledge. Not just on how to use a genjutsu effectively. But more so that you need to have both time as place correctly. Else? It won't work and sticks out. Making it easy for your target to understand it is a genjutsu. It is also pretty great parties, I reckon, with the right technique."

Listening to the answer of Hylli, Aiko remained silent. It was always interesting to figure out how much each person knew about genjutsu. And it seemed that the respective genin in front of her knew the basics, at least. "Very good. It is indeed true that genjutsu requires timing and a tactical mindset. At least, more so than regular ninjutsu use. Where many tend to throw a technique and hope it works out the way they want it. That and when people discuss or focus on ninjutsu, they tend to focus on various fields. Elemental, barrier, sealing and others. Genjutsu doesn't in the field doesn't differ that much. But it works with a different set of rules," Aiko paused as she let her previous words sink in, "The first thing that you must understand that genjutsu exists out of two elements."
Crouching down, Aiko would draw a circle with a drawn knife. Gesturing Hylli to come closer, she continued.
"Genjutsu draws from Ying and Yan. Most techniques tend to rely on Yan, which we can refer to as physical power. It is tangible, you can, in a way, fully experience it. It is like you and me right now. You can experience it, hear me, feel the ground underneath you. Ying? It is what you could see as a shadow to your body. You can see it, but it isn't tangible. You can experience it but not in a sense, directly. You understand?"

Hylli became fascinated. Drawn closer, she watched and listened intently. Truth told she wasn't sure what to think. Before, she had envisioned genjutsu as a field of deceit and illusions. To trick a foe. Hearing what genjutsu was composed of was to say, in the least, interesting.
"I think I do understand," Hylli said as she stared at the drawing in the ground. "So must there be a balance to create a proper genjutsu? Or should it have more Yin?" Hylli asked, holding the flow of questions at bay for now as she eagerly awaited Aiko's response.

A faint smile crossed Aiko's lips. "In a way, there must be a balance, yes. Most don't realise but using the right sequence of signs will allow them to mould chakra to create that balance. But those who delve into this understanding will be able to control chakra better. Allowing them to understand how to decipher other genjutsu better. As to combat even other fields," Aiko answered. "But for genjutsu? The rule of thumb is that the element of Yin is dominant. You use the essence of Yang to create the vision. The sound and even touch, if need be. And then use Yin to shape the image to your desire and creativity."
Rising, she would subtly gesture Hylli to rise as well. "I will teach you what I taught Kazumo. The technique he used to fool and trick you," the woman continued as she would weave a sequence of signs. But Aiko would do it at a slow pace, allowing Hylli to observe and memorise the hand signs. Holding the last sign, the voice of Aiko resonated behind Hylli.

"The Advanced Genjutsu clone technique," another Aiko said as she stood behind Hylli, a perfect copy of the one that had been standing before Hylli. "It is a technique that I created together with a previous pupil of mine. You can hear it, see it but it is still intangible. However," the clone would slowly spread her arms as the shadow behind her became clear, "it posses a shadow. People with dojutsu? They won't see the difference in how the genjutsu is composed."

Hylli quickly turned herself half around, witnessing the sudden appearance of another Aiko. She blinked twice rapidly and understood most of what Aiko explained. But there was one thing that didn't make sense. Bringing her hands together, Hylli would attempt to stabilise her chakra. Only for the clone to still be present.
"Fascinating," the Hyuzu softly said as she lowered her hands, "I am not under a genjutsu? So how does the clone then appear behind me?" Hylli asked, throwing a glance at the real Aiko.

Dismissing her genjutsu clone, Aiko would answer. "It is because I conjure the image. You have no control over what I conjure and do with my chakra. So you can't dispel it. It is, in a way, using the theory of what I explained before. When you understand how genjutsu works at its foundation, you can expand how to use it. Why allow your opponent to dispel your illusions? It may be easy just to obstruct your foe with a genjutsu. But if you prevent them from breaking out of it or combating it effectively? You can easily outplay them."
Pausing, Aiko gestured Hylli to try it herself. "The reason why the clone was there? I projected it. Much as how Kazumo kept projecting his moulded chakra into these clones, keeping you guessing where the real Kazumo was."

It was quite something, Hylli thought to herself. To fight someone that could project genjutsu, that only she could dismiss. Remembering her spar against Kazumo, she understood that he had only used two techniques to subdue her within a short fight. And still likely held back. A thought that made Hylli slightly frustrated at herself.
Focusing her thoughts, however, she would bring her hands together. Slowly, she would weave through the shown sequence of hand signs - replicating Aiko's, sign by sign.
Once done, Hylli focused her attention on the spot next to her. It stayed silent for a few seconds.

Then she heard it.
Twisting her head slightly, she gazed upon a copy of herself. The clone also held the last hand sign, standing perfectly still. Yet, Hylli could hear the clone breath softly. There was a shadow, and it seemed all too real.
"Advanced genjutsu," the Hyuzu mumbled as she slowly lowered her hands.

"It will take some time and practice to control it perfectly. But just try to do some simple matters." Aiko suggested as she took a step back, giving a bit more space to the genin.
 
Two to the Test - part 2
[ Kirigakure - Training Fields ]
[ Team Hayashi - A collab @BlueFlameNikku , @SilverPaw and @Lesli ]
[ The first team training occurs, where Neime dedicates some time to train Sugi. However, as the two are about to start the training, another one joins the fray! ]


Sana smirked when she saw the ashen cloud being dispersed, and two Neimes were revealed. It was possible they were both clones, but she thought one of them might be the real one. As such, she infused chakra into her blade, shortened the distance between her and her senpai with a few quick strides, and released a Chakra Shockwave Slash at both Neimes.​

Sugi smiled with a toothy grin at their senpai's clear agitation. The genin who was still descending from his prior leap straight up above the two Neimes, retrieved a few shuriken from his back and tossed them straight down. He did his best to aim them at the Neime on the left. At the same time, Sugi's water clone cancelled the attempt at a genjutsu. It would be a waste of chakra if not used on the right one. Instead the clone dashed out from its hiding place in an attempt to grapple the Neime on the right. Its goal being to get that Neime hit by Sana's attack, happily willing for itself to get hit in the process if need be.

While both Neime's attempted to defend themselves against the genin's attack, it seemed something was off. The water clone of Sugi that attempted to grapple one of the Hayashi's would phase through and be sliced down by Sana's shockwave slash.
The other Neime locked her eyes with Sugi as he tossed several shuriken down. Only for the projectiles to suffer the same fate as the chakra arcs of Sana: to phase right through Neime and slam against the tree.

"Fire Style," the voice of Neime resonated behind the two genin, "Dragon Fire Technique,"
A stream of fire would blaze towards the descending Sugi and seem to only split off to separate, with another trail moving towards Sana. All the while revealing Neime from where she had been before - the place where she had utilized her ash technique.

Sugi's eyes would open wide as not one but both Neime's were fakes. He turned his head towards the sound of Neime's voice only to see a bunch of fire streaming towards him. After a few seconds of still having his back turned away from Neime, the genin's body shifted towards the oncoming as he was still descending. He'd look around frantically as he had no way of escaping the jutsu's trajectory. The boy instinctively put his arms up in front of his face as the flames struck and enveloped his body, the two girls would only hear the short but sickening screams of a boy burning alive. The flames and all that was within fell to the ground in a heap, causing a small splash from the water soaked dirt. The only clear movement being that of the flames flickering as they burned just above the watery ground.

Sana's eyes widened, then immediately narrowed as she realized that her two targets had, in fact, both been clones. The real Neime sent a stream of fire at her, and the genin ran into the trees to avoid it. Her breath hitched when she heard Sugi's scream, however; it seemed her team-mate hadn't managed to escape unscathed after all. But she couldn't afford to worry about him right now - it wouldn't help the situation any. Instead, she applied Lightning chakra to her katana, which would slightly extend its reach, sharpen it, and numb Neime as long as she managed to hit the chuunin. Expression hardened in determination, Sana dashed at the real Neime, Spiritkeeper at the ready.

Neime watched as the genin recovered from the surprise, seemingly fine with letting them adjust. For a moment, the Hayashi watched as Sugi seemed to be engulfed into fire, only to show it was a mere water clone. While not showing it, Neime was content that the boy wasn't hurt.
Turning her attention as Sana moved in Neime's hands flashed various signs. Moulding chakra in her stomach Neime allowed Sana to cross a good distance before aiming her next attack in between them - creating a large ball of fire that would slam into the earth, throwing dust and mud debris into the air.

Sugi took a moment to catch his breath from behind a nearby tree. He took note of Neime's and Sana's reactions to his little experiment. A heart warming smile appeared on his face. Maybe, I really can trust these two. The smile was quickly covered up as the genin tied up his black bandana over his mouth and nose; being protective measures against any more ash techniques. He had maybe enough chakra for one more solid jutsu so he had to make it count.

The genin waited quietly and slowed his breath, slowly drawing out one of his kunai into an icepick like grip. He did his best to completely erase his presence as his eyes now gave off a cold but wicked feel. As the ball of fire smashed into the ground, Sugi broke out into a dash from his hiding place. The impact from Neime's jutsu masking Sugi's already deaf footfalls despite his rapid movements. He'd get close to Neime approaching her right flank before making his move. The genin would try to fool the chuunin with his eyes, doing his best to convey intent to kill as he struck downwards with his kunai. Though the strike was really aiming to cut off Neime's sash.


Sana thought she'd get a faceful of fire, but Neime had chosen to direct the fireball into the ground, and simply raised up a lot of dust and debris. Peripherally, she saw Sugishimo approaching, and felt both relieved and vindicated – he was fine after all, and she was right not to let worry affect her efficiency. Her team-mate moved in on their senpai's right flank. Meanwhile, Sana circled around the debris cloud, until she was behind Neime's back – or where she Neime's back had been facing last Sana had seen her, at least. Closing her eyes and shielding her nose with by holding one arm in front of her, the pink-haired female charged in, preparing a horizontal sword strike.​

"And stop."​

The two calm but confident words rang after a loud sound resonated upon edges of steel slamming against each other. As the dust settled, a flimsy hue of blue shined through - blocking both the path of Sana and Sugi's attack.
"Well, that was," Neime said as she slowly pulled the two kunai away - the flimsy blue vanishing rapidly, "interesting."
A smile covered her lips as beads of sweat crossed her visible skin. Raising a hand after storing her kunai away, she would walk to a space that was untouched by the previous spar before settling down on her rear.
"Let us take a moment to sit down and review what happened, hm?" Neime suggested as she would wait for them to join her before she would voice her thoughts on the spar.

Sugi would blink abruptly as Neime sounded the end of the spar, snapping him out of the moment proper. As things were settling down the fatigue caught up to the young genin. His face looked skyward as he removed his bandana, taking in a couple of rapid deep breaths. It seemed they weren't able to complete the task afterall. With a weary smile Sugi would openly address Sana on their way to join Neime. "Sorry I couldn't come up with somethin' better." He didn't let the failure get to him that much. Neime was a chuunin after all. So of course she'd get the better of two genin. Sugi was more proud that they actually made their senpai work up a sweat.

Finally taking a seat in front of Neime, Sugi put away his kunai and sat with his legs and arms sprawled out over the grass. "Man, that double clone diversion in the ash cloud is something I would have done. I should've seen that coming."

Sana stopped when she heard Neime's command, though she couldn't help but feel frustrated. They'd seemed to be so close...Though given the chuunin's ability to counter them both, it wouldn't have been that easy after all. As expected, really. Sana sheathed her katana, and followed after her senpai. She blinked when Sugishimo apologized to her, and a brief bitter smile overtook her feature. "Not like I bought that much time either, huh?" she replied, chagrined.

Sana smoothed her features into polite neutrality before they approached Neime, though, since she didn't want to come across as sulky. She followed Sugi's lead, and took a seat, though hers was a proper seiza as she set her sheathed katana at her side. "It's hard to find someone who's hiding," she chipped in, not sure what else to say. They'd been led around the nose throughout and hadn't really accomplished anything significant - well, unless working Neime up to a sweat counted.

It was a nice change of pace to relax a bit. Observing the genin as they joined her, Neime leaned slightly back - putting her hands behind her back to support herself. "You would have with some more basic training," Neime said, a faint smile crossing her lips. "You guys knew beforehand that I was trying to buy time, after all. Deceptions like that are bound to happen if the enemy is just trying to buy themselves time," Neime replied, "Same as how to deal with two enemies at once."

Letting pause follow, allowing her words to sink in with the genin, Neime flashed a smile. "But despite it all, you two showed quite some promise. You haven't fought before yet the cooperation was solid. It had serious flaws but despite the sudden situation, it was solid. Sugi," Neime turned to the respective genin, "you show some promise to use tactics. But without Sana fully aware of what you're planning, you did momentilary leave her facing me alone. If I was truly a committed foe, you took a huge risk. If I have to give some advice, I would be very careful to utilize such tactics against a foe you're even familiar with."
Pausing, Neime focused her attention on Sana. "You showed quite some talent for close quarter combat. But much like Sugi, you went straight for the attack. Sometimes it is better to take a step back and remain defensive. Even if your goal is to obtain and be aggressive."

Sugi was nodding in contempt at the criticisms thrown his way. He had a habit of doing a lot of set up whenever it came to his plans and despite trying to shave it down during this spar it still took too long. The genin sat up to take out his little notebook and pencil as Sana was being addressed and began writing after crossing something out. He mumbled out the words as he wrote. "Leave...set up...for...situations that...allow it. Don't forget...smoke and tag bombs...for quick set ups and...distractions. Stay...more in...communication with...Sana. Don't leave...Sana hanging."

After that, the notebook was put away and the genin returned to his more relaxed position. Looking back over to Sana, it was interesting to see her sitting so proper even after all that. Even Neime seemed more relaxed than her.

Sana cocked her head to the side, contemplating Neime's words. "So...you advise that we don't face any unknown enemy one-on-one, if we don't have to," she concluded. "I suppose...since we knew you were buying time, there was no need to go for the attack immediately," she added, more-so to herself as she mulled over their senpai's point. She curiously glanced at Sugishimo when she heard him mumbling, and saw that he was making some basic memos. It was very reminiscent of what one would do in the academy, and a bit odd to see. Sana did wonder if writing the information down had any advantages to simply memorizing it, but hearing Sugi reiterate it did spark a question or two in her.

"But how are we to communicate in an enemy's hearing range? Signs? Coded language?" she wondered, directing the question to her fellow genin as much as she did to Neime. Fully turning to the chuunin, she raised a questioning brow at her. "And what if you had run away and hid, senpai? I would have had to chase you, right?" She didn't like that her team-mate was blamed for her actions too, but she did realize that since Sugi had agreed to her charging in alone, he did share responsibility. Sana knew that she really was going to have to pay more attention and think what the best move in any given situation might be...but she certainly wouldn't want hesitation to be her undoing either. In any case, she had a lot to learn yet - obviously, since she was an inexperienced genin.

Neime waited as the two genin took in the words and responded. Observing them, she couldn't help but gain a wry smile upon Sugi starting to take notes. It was in a way endearing but she wasn't sure what to entirely think of it.
When Sana responded, Neime eased a bit. The questions that Sana posed were justified. Neime simply waited for the genin to fire all her questions. The problem was that Neime figured the answers wouldn't be exciting or satisfying, at all.
"I indeed don't advise either of you yet to take on any enemy alone. You both seem to possess good qualities, don't get me wrong. But there is a reason why we will be deployed on missions or campaigns as a unit. After all, I doubt I can take most enemies on by myself." Neime started, deciding to respond to Sugi before answering all of Sana's questions.
"Don't over think it right now. Communication comes with training. It is partly recognising what the other will do. Signs, verbal and non verbal language. Codes and agreements. It is what basic training for teams are. To build up an understanding and expand on it."

Pausing, she took another moment to ponder on the question if she had run away and hid. "Technically, yes. You would have been obliged to chase me. But allow me to provide a reason why you shouldn't worry too much right now. When I managed to deceive you both, there wasn't anything stopping me from hiding further and making more distance. None of you is a tracker. And neither of you is a sensory specialist either. I could tried to ditch you guys and around this time be at town, enjoying a cold beverage with some sweets."
Letting her answer sink in, Neime released a soft sigh. She shot both genin a somewhat amused look. "Right now though, don't fret too much over not getting the sash or the results you guys want. If you had been able to outdo me right away, why would you then be the rank of genin? You guys are here to learn and grow, kinda deal."

With Sana's questions and Neime's answers, Sugi reached for his notebook once more but recalled the odd glances he'd received when taking notes. Hesitantly, the genin's hand hovered over his pocket before retracting with no notebook in hand. He shifted his sitting position as well to a more defensive posture with his knees tucked up into his chest with his arms wrapped around them.

Sugi stayed attentive within the conversation, paying attention to the advice being given. The part about communication was rather expected. Signs and signals were all well and good but the best teamwork is conducted with as little communication as possible. Cooperation at that level would take time and trust. The genin's eyes would dart from Sana to Neime. Their senpai wasn't just their teacher. They were all in this together as one unit. Sugishimo relaxed his shoulders. It'd be best to not overthink things for sure. He was fresh out of the academy after all with no unique clan jutsu nor was he a genius by any merit. But not being blessed in those ways has given him something. The ability to not be blinded by such hubris thoughts.

He'd stand up and stretch his back before speaking up. "I appreciate everything you've said Neime senpai, with one exception." He'd look down with a subtle smile at the still sitting Neime before continuing. "We should worry about not getting the sash today. If we didn't then we'd have no drive to get better. Sana and I'd be some pretty sorry excuses for genin if that were the case, but it isn't." Sugi would shoot Sana a confident look before refocusing on Neime. "So how about we make our learning and growing a bit more interesting." Sugi would point right at Neime's colorful sash before holding up five fingers."Five months. If Sana and I can remove your sash during a spar within the next five months, we all go out to eat and it's on you. If we still can't pull it off then the meal is on us. Call it some healthy encouragement." The genin would then turn to face Sana, resting his hands behind his now. "Course all parties gotta agree right? You trusted me to come up with a plan today, Sana. This one's your call."

Sana politely listened to Neime, taking mental note of her points. Basically, they were genin, and had a long road ahead of them. There were things they could accomplish, and plenty of things they could not do much about. The more they practiced and the more missions they participated in, the better they'd become; that was just common sense. Still…Sana didn't enjoy feeling outclassed, even if it did make sense that she was and often would be. She glanced at her fellow genin when he stood up and spoke up about his viewpoint, and smiled when she found it matched her own.​

"Yes, exactly. I do get disappointed when I don't succeed, and it's part of what drives me to do better," Sana agreed with a confirmatory nod in Sugi's direction. She grinned at his next suggestion – a genuinely warm, wide smile. "Of course I agree, it's an excellent idea," she complimented, a lively spark in her eyes. "Five months of time…limited to sparring time," she smirked, foreseeing a lot of sparring in their future – if Neime agreed to the suggestion, of course. She turned a pondering look at their senpai, remaining in her sitting position as long as the chuunin did as well.​

Neime considered it a good sign that neither of them became defensive. She had seen it before, after all; genin becoming defensive cause they couldn't live up to the expectations of themselves, their clan or whoever had imposed it on them. The worst were those that compared their Academy scores and time with the 'real deal'.
As Sugi spoke up, Neime wasn't sure what to expect as he continued on. When he came with his suggestion, Neime felt a twinge of amusement and certain concern. Sana joining in didn't make it any easier, Neime mused to herself.

Shifting her attention between the two, a smile started to dawn on Neime's lips. "Five months?" She repeated. In truth, she never had felt much to socialise or expand activities with a team. Then again, the previous team she had operated hadn't been this lively. "Alright, I accept the challenge. Five months should be more than enough to save up some money, after all." The Hayashi replied, not hiding the amusement in her voice. "I think you two should get a rest. Tomorrow, we are off on a mission most likely. I will keep you both updated."
 
12th Brigade Camp- Kyoi Hyuuga
This girl was rather... Curious. Yet she wasn't the strangest one that Kyoi had met. But what was that second question? It felt very loaded, as if she was supposed to know more than she let on about Junko. "There's only two others in this team while normally I would let them introduce themselves I see no harm in it this time, are Masami Hyuuga and Shikaroku Nara." Her initial expression was relatively neutral, though it did curl down into one of concern and questioning.

"We'll be deploying within the hour, plenty of time for you to formally introduce yourself to your new team mates and understand what kind of people they are. As for that second question of yours..." Addressing this felt absurd, but the air had to be cleared now otherwise it never would be, as much as she didn't enjoy having to be so sharp from the get go it had to be done.
Kyoi's tone shifted from the previously casual air to one that was colder, perhaps to some degree disappointed. "I cannot pretend to know what exactly you believe to be a distasteful habit, nor am I going to speak ill of people who aren't currently present to counter my thoughts about them. You will develop your own impression of each of them in time and we shant indulge that avenue of discussion any further. They will be your team mates for the time being regardless of how you feel about their behaviours, I expect you to work with them as much as I expect them to work with you despite everything. Are we clear?" Kyoi would at least wait for confirmation on this point before speaking further.

"Now to get onto a fresh subject, one thing I'm curious about. What do you think your strengths are?" As if she hadn't even changed tone previously, she seemed once again to be somewhat more casual, informal even. "It's something I like to ask, to check ones self awareness."

@BlueFlameNikku
 

( Eastern Continent | Camp of the 12th Imperial Brigade )
( Junko Shiroi | Team 9 | 12th Brigade )
Color Code: #7351c4

The genin would in fact let out a sigh of relief as the names of her remaining squad maters were shared. "I'm thankful I get to work alongside not one but three shinobi from esteemed Konohagakure clans. I apologize for tainting this team's purity with my tainted blood." It'd be hard to tell if the statement was sarcastic as the genin said every word with a straight face. She'd give the Hyuuga a short bow before continuing. "Yes ma'am, we are clear. They will be my teammates and I will work with them regardless of any faults. I will introduce myself properly to them and listen to their introductions in turn." Junko's expression remained unchanged even all the way through the Hyuuga's cold toned rambling with clear disapproval laced within. She had no intentions of apologizing for her questions as she saw little issue in what she asked.

Junko answered blankly with what could be described as an empty tone of voice. "Of course Sergeant Hyuuga. At the end of my training I was informed to have shown high marks in regards to the following; close quarters engagements, information extraction and chakra control. I strongly believe these marks are accurate as they are what my father put above everything else in my initial training with him. I'd practice with my blade till my fingers bled, my father would subject me to interrogations to learn first hand how to carry them out myself and I'd focus on my chakra control till exhaustion each night." The genin continued to look the Hyuuga dead in the face with her soulless eyes. "I will follow the orders of my superiors to the letter and without delay or excuse. I am the empire's tool, crafted to destroy its enemies and those who would turn away from its guiding light." The last two statements clearly sounded rehersed, like the genin had recited the words thousands of times. "To atone for the sins committed within my blood I will serve to the best of my ability until my dying breath." A flash image of Junko's dead mother would appear in her head as she spoke, then of her living father.

"Do inform me if any of this fails to meet your expectations. As I shall gladly throw myself at the enemy and die on the battlefield in penance for my inadequacies." Being a clear order from her father before she left for the eastern continent.

@GlitchyBugger
 
12th Brigade Camp- Kyoi Hyuuga
Junko's words were clear at the least, though evidently she'd been through some very specific "training" by whomsoever had instilled this mindset into her. This was going to be a difficult nut to crack, especially if she wanted Junko to be something more than a mindlessly obedient drone. "That kind of self sacrifice wont be neccessary, all I expect of you in this war is your survival, nothing more." Perhaps when there's another quiet period during the war effort Kyoi would have to see about getting some more information about this girl's upbringing out of her, or even looking into it personally after this was over and she was back in Konoha.

"It's about time to meet your team mates and get you all briefed on the mission ahead so follow me. Though as we walk, perhaps this is a question you'll find difficult to answer. Where do you think your training was insufficient and what could you improve in terms of skill? More vaguely... What do you believe to be your weaknesses?" It would be insightful to see what she came out with, be it an honest answer or a claim to have no weakness. At this point Kyoi would carefully observe Junko, watching for a shift or change in body language from the corner of her eye as she began to lead the genin to the field the other two were residing.
If she was as much of an emotionally dead rock as she currently seemed to be portraying herself as, judging her based on her subconcious reactions was all that came to mind at the moment.

@BlueFlameNikku
 

( Eastern Continent | Camp of the 12th Imperial Brigade )
( Junko Shiroi | Team 9 | 12th Brigade )
Color Code: #7351c4

Junko was pleased to hear that she was expected to survive. Cause that we should could participate in the war for as long as possible, working on cleansing her family name through service. A piece of her welcomed the thought of not having to see her father for quite some time as well. "Understood." Is all she retorted blankly to the first statement.

Junko followed the Hyuuga as instructed, staying to one side of her. She looked forward to meeting another Hyuuga and someone from the Nara clan so soon and her first mission to boot. Kyoi's difficult question would indeed cause the genin to pause, both mentally and physically as her stride halted abruptly for a moment before resuming. My...weaknesses? The girl wasn't so blind as to believe she didn't have any. Everything and everyone had a weakness, no exceptions. But she never thought about what hers were, nor was she ever told. It was subtle but a look of distress could be seen in Junko's eyes as well. "I..." Junko looked at her thin arms and looked down at the rest of herself. "I lack physical strength and...experience." Lack of experience was certainly a stretch but she was hard pressed to think of something.

Then she recalled Kyoi was asking in regards to her skill set, making her previous answers pointless. Junko thought back on her various techniques and jutsu that she could utilize and sorted out what she was lacking. "I'm...ineffective at long ranged engagements. But I could continue to come up with strategies to close the distance or learn a few longer ranged techniques should the need arise. I was trained to adept and learn if needed to obtain successful results." Honestly, she still wasn't sure if this was a sufficient answer to her superior's question.


@GlitchyBugger
 

►Tomiko Hyuuga & Hylli Hyuzu◄​
►Location: 11th Brigade Encampment
►Writers: @Autumn Song and @Jessie Targaryen

Staring at the campfire crackling on in the darkness, Tomiko was certainly thankful for the heat that was being thrown off. The piercing cold of this land was certainly one of her least favorite things about this land. The Hyuuga kept to herself as she watched the fire, which wasn't overly difficult given that there weren't that many others at her fire, and they seemed more caught in their own conversation. In her hands, she held a small cup that bit of tea in it, enjoying the warmth from the drink. Though it wasn't of the highest quality, she wasn't exactly one to turn her nose at something that was even a small reminder of home.

She cast a gently gaze around the area, looking over the other soldiers either sitting around other campfires or moving about on some task or another. There was a bit of peacefulness to watching everybody move about their business. Something which the girl certainly figured she would enjoy while she still could. If the last mission was anything go off of, the peacefulness of the moment could very suddenly change. The girl was lost in the thoughts as she sipped on her tea, enjoying the little bit of free time she had.

Heading back, Hylli had her thumbs hooked behind her belt. There was a soft aching going through her shoulders and knees, from the training that had taken place today. Going over what she had learned from today and the previous days made her ponder on a few matters. So far, things seemed to go in a different way than she had anticipated. But that was in no way harming her determination.
What did cause a slight issue was the fact that her tent-mates had reported that they were busy with something, so it was best to find another campfire. Unsure what was going on, Hylli had learned to not argue or ask too many questions. It usually led to squabbles or learning matters that she didn't want to know in the first place.
Continuing her way, she considered where she would have to wait her time out. The first thought was to head over to Team 4. Perhaps one of them was around and judging by previous exchanges, it would provide some amusement.

Instead she noticed someone sitting at a campfire alone. Something that could provide also a way out to enjoy some more peace and quiet. Remembering after all her encounter with the Senju, Hylli wasn't a particular fan to risk an evening spending with what could follow up their first meeting.
Heading over, Hylli was about to speak up. But there was a slight hesitation on if she should address the other with Taika or Chonobi.
"Hello there," Hylli stated as she sat on the opposite side, opting for Taika, "Don't mind me. I just need a campfire to find some respite against the cold. I saw you sitting alone, so yeah."

The Hyuuga had not been expecting company, and visibly jumped a bit when she heard the voice from the behind her. Thankfully, she did manage to save the tea from spilling out a bit as she turned her gaze towards the visitor. "O-oh, hi! Feel free to grab a seat." She said, offering a kind smile towards the visitor, then gesturing towards the open seats at the fire. "Do you want any tea? It helps with the cold." The Hyuuga continued making a slight nod towards the fire where a teapot was above the flame, preparing a bit more of the wonderfully warm liquid. Then studying the other girl for a long few moments, it occurred to Tomiko that she didn't recognize this girl at all. "I'm Tomiko, by the way. I don't think we've met before." She offered, figuring that her eyes would offer a clear enough answer on her surname as she introduced herself to the newcomer at the fire.

"No thanks, I am not that a big fan of tea," Hylli replied, at first. Unwrapping the ration, she would force herself to begin on the rather bland meal. The fact it wasn't warm anymore didn't bother her that much. When the other introduced herself, as Tomiko, Hylli first cleared her mouth. It seemed that there was going to be some exchange, instead of silence.
"Hylli," the Hyuzu responded with, "and we haven't no. Part of the Axebiters battalion," Hylli further added. Not caring much for the other features, the Hyuzu already took another bite of the bland meal. Only for a small frown to grow on her brow. There was a question popping up in Hylli's mind. One that wouldn't seem too polite but her curiosity got the better of her.
"Tad young to be in the military. Camp follower?" The Hyuzu asked, her mouth half-full.

The girl had not really expected the other to turn down the offer for tea. Even if she didn't drink it, just holding a cup of the stuff helped with the cold. To each their own, she supposed. Taking a gentle sip of her own, Tomiko was rather content with the warmth she felt from drinking the tea. The other girl introduced herself as Hylli, a name Tomiko couldn't really place as common among a certain clan, but also felt it a bit rude to ask her surname. Hylli continued on by mentioning she was part of the Axebiters battalion, Tomiko nodding in response as it pretty well explained why they hadn't met before.

The next question, however, caught Tomiko a bit off guard. Turning to look towards Hylli with a bit of a confused expression, she spoke up quickly in response. "Old enough to be a genin. I'm with the scouts, myself." She said, wondering just about how old this other girl was if she looked too young to be in the military. "If I can ask… how old do I look to you?" The girl asked, sounding about as confused as she felt by Hylli's own question.

Chewing on her last bite, the answer of Tomiko seemed to slightly amuse Hylli. Yet, there was no quick verbal response that either clarified the origin of the Hyuzu's amusement or an answer to Tomiko's question.
"Pretty young. You are kinda," looking for the right word, Hylli raised her left hand to gesture a small height, "small. So that is why I kind of reckoned you were young. Or not part of any fighting unit," Hylli continued rather casually. Taking another bite of her food, Hylli briefly wondered if there was going to be any change soon in supplies. Perhaps she should request Kazumo to do another hunt and tracking session, to get some fresh meat.
"No offense though," Hylli stated friendly after clearing her mouth, "nothing wrong with being a scout. I rather wouldn't be part of them. Rather have a part in the more hazardous occupations, I suppose."

There was a small giggle from the Hyuuga whenever Hylli explained her reasoning for her assumption. Tomiko couldn't even begin to argue with the other girl's reasoning for thinking she was young. The Hyuuga shook her head after Hylli mentioned that she had intended no offense with her comment. "None taken, you're right about me being short." She said with a small grin before continuing. "The scouts really aren't bad. Though as you said, I'm small. I fit better there than on the front lines, most soldiers could throw me rather easily…" She said, falling silent for a few moments before speaking up again. "The sergeant is kind of an ass." She added with a small smile to accent the attempt to be a bit more humorous. "What's it like being in Axebiters? Anything like the stories of other wars?" Tomiko asked, a bit curious about what it was like in the actual front line units.

Chewing on another bite, Hylli didn't imagine that the scouts were as bad as she thought. But there were was just more than the line of work. However, she doubted that the Hyuuga had the same viewpoint or ideology on the whole matter. Deciding to not comment on the fact that girl could be trashed by most, Hylli cleared her mouth.
"So far, it is just training and preparing," Hylli replied, "I am not sure what stories of war you have heard. But I have yet to see any combat. Only since recent been deployed and assigned to the unit," the Hyuzu answered as she took the final bite of her ration. Luckily, the water was cold and could help to flush down the bland food faster.

Training and preparing, so at least they had that similarity. Though she wasn't overly surprised by Hylli's answer about it being mostly training. After her previous mission she was fairly certain there really hadn't been any large conflicts, at least that she heard about. Following another sip of her tea, the girl turned to look towards Hylli again. "Mostly just stories of these huge conflicts and glorious battles." She said to explain what kind of stories she had heard. Hearing that Hylli was newly deployed did somewhat explain to the Hyuuga why she hadn't seen any combat as of yet. "How long have you been out here? It's been a little bit for me." She asked, slightly curious about how long Hylli had been here. Though also, she was just enjoying having a conversation.

"Ah, those," Hylli replied with a rather casual tone. Picking up the waterskin that she had carried with her, Hylli first took a sip before responding further to the Hyuuga. "Not too long. Long enough to got to meet and spend some time with most of the unit. But not long enough to be assigned than the mundane camp duties. And some other folk, I suppose."
Enjoying the warmth of the nearby fire, Hylli raised her right hand to scratch her neck. Throwing a lazy look from where she had came from, the Hyuzu wondered how long she should stay.
"Well, I shouldn't trouble you for much longer. I wanted to sit somewhere and enjoy my supper," Hylli finally said after a moment of pondering on what she should do. Already rising up, she rolled her right shoulder before throwing a look at the Hyuuga.
"Good luck with that scouting business."

As the girl seemed to decide that she needed to head out from their campfire, Tomiko nodded politely. "Understandable. Oh, uh, thanks! Good luck to you as well." A smile appearing on her lips before she seemed to think of something else. "It was nice to meet you!" She added, keeping her tone light and friendly. Watching the girl head away, Tomiko then turned back towards the fire and finished her tea. Figuring it was about time that she get back to being productive as well.
 
[ From one heart to the other. ]
[ Eastern Continent | Near the border of Lagyre ]
[ A collab between @Oetje and @Aliceee | Meilin and Dagrún share an exchange. The two engages in a conversation that shed some light on various matters, such as why Dagrún joined the Imperial military and what Meilin desires. ]


The soft sound of wood cracking as the fire continued to consume it was comfortable. The warmth that the fire radiated was welcoming, together with the light that held the darkness at bay. Huddled close to the fire, Dagrún lost herself staring into the bright flames. The others had already gone to bed, after another exhausting day of training and preparing. Unlike some, Dagrún hadn't uttered a complaint. The hard life wasn't, in her opinion, so wrong. The strict rules provided guidance. And the mere fact that they had training meant they were occupied. A blessing, Dagrún considered while being deployed in a foreign continent.
Pulling the blanket tighter around herself, she watched as her small sacrifice burned slowly in the fire. The flames consumed the piece of meat without hesitation, eagerly reducing it to ash and a charred remain.

"Mind if I join?"
The voice of Meilin cut sharply through the silence that plagued the spot. Nearing to the fire, the lieutenant flashed a smile towards Dagrún - taking a seat after the other nodded.
"Thanks, I needed some company. And preferably company that wouldn't bother me with what we are going to do tomorrow. Or what I think we will be facing soon," Meilin said as she eyed Dagrún subtly. "How are you holding up, though?" Meilin decided to ask, not hiding her curiosity or slight worry.

A soft scoff escaped Dagrún when Meilin began. The blonde Hon remained silent, though slightly surprised by Meilin's question. "I am dandy, cap'," Dagrún started, "just enjoying some peace, ye know? I don't mind this kind of situation that much. Even kinda like it. Training, sparring and all that." Pausing, Dagrún leaned slightly forward. "I kinda wish that there was more killing to do. I have yet to find myself a proper foe. Though I heard some folk talkin', cap'."

"Good," Meilin responded softly upon hearing that Dagrún was doing fine. "Oh?" Meilin frowned slightly upon Dagrún, mentioning that she had heard people talking. "Colour me intrigued. What are people talking about then?" Meilin asked as she stretched her gloved hands, towards the fire.

"There is some foe. No metal can hurt it. Ninjutsu vanishes when it is close. And it possesses strength equal to four men. Only by constantly delivering killin' blows can one defeat it. If they don't succumb first to its icy grip," Dagrún responded, a grin growing on her features. "Sounds close to frigging demons, eh? I would love to test my abilities against one of those. They sound already like worthy foes. More so than the ones we faced before."

Meilin nodded slowly. Not that she agreed. She didn't mind if all they were going to face were foes of flesh and blood. People that bled as easily as anyone else. The description that Dagrún gave reminded Meilin of what she had heard before. Of what Aoi and Yumi had faced in the mission they had executed in the Hon highlands. Or what Team 7 had faced in Keishi.
"Sounds exciting. I hope you'll be able to face and beat one. Maybe, someone will be able to make a grand song out of it," Meilin said, slightly amused and yet oddly comforted that she could count Dagrún as an ally.
"I don't mind fighting against the foes that we have already faced. I suppose that I am okay with not facing even more dangerous enemies."

The grin of Dagrún would morph into a wide smile. "I wouldn't mind carving through those fools that dare to stand. But else how about we fight such a foe together? Ye and I. Sword and axe. Fire and Lightning," Dagrún began, "I am certain that ye and I can gain much glory and renown together. Or perhaps impress that guy that keeps checking up on yous." Dagrún would gesture to the tent behind them, where the others were most likely sound asleep.
"They are fine folk but you and I. We follow the same gods. I am certain that if we will seek out one of these reputed brutes, that the gods will favour us."

Releasing a soft sigh, Meilin thought about it. She didn't mind the prospect of gaining renown or glory. But it wasn't what drove her.
"I will fight with you, Dagrún. But I fight for a different purpose." Meilin paused as she briefly threw a glance at the nearby tent. "I want to find some people here. At least, I hope I can find them."

"Ah, revenge, eh?" Dagrún said, her voice a bit softer. She was grateful that they were speaking in their native tongue. "I saw you taking three heads. What did these people take from ye, Meilin?" Dagrún asked, a particular caution rising. "And why do ye want to curse them?"

Becoming silent for some time, Meilin attempted to keep the memories at bay. The sounds of her father's voice. The warmth of her mother's hands, gently moving through her hair.
"They took my family. I managed to recover some of my siblings. But I was too late for my mother. And I have yet to know what happened to my father and... brother."
Becoming silent, Meilin felt her stomach ache.
"I am the oldest of them. And I have been away, too late and a disappointment," Meilin further uttered, her gaze lifted from to the fire to Dagrún.
"Their hurt must be avenged. I have been raised in Keishi, but I know what is demanded. I will hunt down those who are responsible. It is my duty."

It stayed silent after Meilin's words. Dagrún leaned slightly back as she took in Meilin's answer. If anything, pity was shown on Dagrún's features. "You are a good one, ye know that? Ye are as tough as they come by, so far what I've seen. Ye would make a most promising Dowhon, I am certain." Dagrún said, licking her lips before exhaling. "How many have you killed so far? Those that are responsible for imposing this revenge on ye?"

"Honestly? I don't know," Meilin answered, her gaze lowering to the fire in between them, "I like to think something above twenty. Has a better ring to it than none or a dozen."
A smile grew on Meilin's lips, containing no joy.
"I don't know if I am even able to do anything. I am bound to duty from all places. I am a lieutenant. A squad leader. I swore allegiance to the Empire of Akino. To the Cho clan."
Looking up to Dagrún, Meilin frowned.
"And now I am bound to avenge my family's faith. Not knowing where to begin or how to do it, without upsetting everything else that I am supposed to serve."

"I have no wise answer," Dagrún said as she remained silent for a bit, after Meilin's words. "Most people try to be wise. Say that revenge is bad. That ye'll feel empty. That it will consume who ye are. Then again, most people are cunts." Smiling a bit Dagrún shrugged lightly. "I don't know ye family, Meilin. But ye have proven to be a decent person, so far. I will aid ye in yer quest of vengeance. Perhaps even make a song of out of it, if we both make it through."
Watching the fire, fueled by the wood, Dagrún thought about something. "I know what revenge is like. If ye didn't mind, I would like to share my story with ye."

Smiling when Dagrún stated that most are cunts, Meilin continued to listen. It felt nice to hear that Dagrún considered her a nice person.
"Thanks. I accept your help, Dagrún. If anything, you have proven yourself as a valuable companion and friend. Even if others don't appreciate your presence, I do truly."
When Dagrún offered to share her story, Meilin nodded. Her curiosity was piqued, but she wasn't sure how to proceed further. There was some forewarning rising in Meilin's gut that it wasn't going to be a beautiful story.
"You would do me a great honour of telling me."

"I doubt ye'll consider it an honour once I am done," Dagrún replied, the amusement ringing clear in her response. "I know what revenge is like. Not that I consider myself a wise ass. But I killed in the name of revenge. It is the reason why I am not enjoying the warmth of my father's hearth. Why I am in this godsforsaken shite place."
Pausing, Dagrún sought for the words. Briefly, she felt the anger building up in her. But she was aware that unleashing it wouldn't resolve anything. Perhaps gaining a lousy response from Meilin and anyone unfortunate enough to be around.
"It started with my grandda. He had a sort of rivalry with some other old fart. In the end, they decided to end it with a duel. The old ways and all that. Only for my grandda to kill his rival. Maybe not the best idea, cause the rules were to first blood. After that? Long story in a short jacket? A lot of feuding between my family and the other. Leading to me planting an axe so deep in a person's head, that they had to bury him with it."

Meilin remained silent as she listened to the brief story, a chapter of Dagrún's life. In all honesty, Meilin wasn't sure what to say or think. At first, she to think she wouldn't be that aggressive herself. Only for her to remember what emotions ran through her by the mere thought of her siblings hurt. Or what she would do if she caught the person that had hurt Irene.
Another part of Meilin felt sorry. She had imagined that Dagrún had joined the Imperial military to make a name for herself. Now? It just seemed like she was worse off than any of the others on the team, with no place to return once this campaign would end.
"So what now?" Meilin asked, understanding that her apology wouldn't help either of them, "What will you do?"

"No clue," the words left Dagrún rather casual as she tried to smile the situation off, despite the visible discomfort that sparked through her voice and body language. "I have it given it thought to go back. To not let anyone tell me what to do or where to go. But I won't even make it past the door, I reckon, heh."
Becoming silent for a few seconds, Dagrún shrugged. "I don't know. I suppose it was going to be simple, ye know? Make a name for myself, be hailed back as a hero. But? Here? None of my kin would care. I either have to take a grand trophy back, or ye know, settle somewhere else. I just," Dagrún paused as she threw a frustrated look at the fire, only to throw a glance at the tent before back at Meilin, "I don't think I am going to be accepted. In the other part of the Empire. If anything, Aoi and Mamoru have proven Taika don't align that well with my... customs."

It pained Meilin to see Dagrún shrug. She wasn't sure about the others, but she had gotten to see Dagrún as the bulwark of courage and eagerness to dive into a fight. Only to see her shrug like she was defeated already wasn't something Meilin enjoyed.
"You could come with me," Meilin began, a tad surprised about her response, "I mean, I know the feeling. To be in a surrounding that isn't super appreciative towards your origin. Or not understanding your traditions fully. I have to figure out stuff yet myself. Yet, I don't see why we can't do that together."

The proposal made Dagrún blink twice rapidly. "Well, that is mighty nice of ye, cap'. I... ehm," hesitating Dagrún would eventually release a sigh. "Know what? I will set aside my pride. If ye are that nice, I will follow you." A smile grew on Dagrún's lips as she leaned forward, enjoying the warmth of the nearby fire more. "Besides, ye Vythlings aren't a bad bunch. I expected yous lot to be a tad more, ye know, prideful. Distant, even."

"You did?" Meilin responded, both happy that she could help out Dagrún - even if it was still not entirely sure they both would survive this ordeal - as for that, they had this exchange.
"Granted, I doubt I am the prime example of a Cho- or well, Vythling. I do try, though. And I don't think that either Aoi or Mamoru dislike you. Just, don't entirely seem to understand you." Meilin decided to add. "I had some friction with Aoi myself. And Mamoru is a nice guy with great intentions. Only quite naive and I suppose, new to the world?"

"Oh? Did ye? What kind of frictions?" Dagrún decided to ask, slightly surprised learning about Meilin and Aoi butting heads. "And aye, agreed. Mamoru is a good lad. I like the fact he does try things. Even though I wouldn't yet trust him fully on guarding my back. The lad has to learn more before I will fully see him as a warrior in any sort." Knowing that wasn't the nicest thing she could say, she would add something to her statement. "But, at least, he tries. I respect that."

" |Oh yeah, we did." Remembering what she once had asked of Aoi made Meilin feel bad, certainly seeing how Aoi had been towards Irene.
"We clashed over some opinions and viewpoints. I also didn't share everything I know with Aoi or Madoc. It made them think I didn't trust them enough," Meilin said, remembering another problem that they had in the past, " I am not sure if they fully trust me or just follow commands. I like to tell myself that you guys actually only trust or respect me enough to follow my orders."

It stayed silent for a second.
"I can't speak for the rest, cap'. But I follow ye. Ye might not be of a noble lineage, but ye have shown qualities that I find respectful. Not to mention, " a grin grew on Dagrún's lips as her eyes narrowed, "I have seen ye fight. I would love to test myself against ye one of these days. Can I ask who has taught ye to fight like that? I recognise some of your styles, but it has... a certain accent to it."

It felt nice to hear those words. Briefly, Meilin honestly wondered why Madoc had never taken over. Save it for the fact that the Yamanaka could be lazy and or not entirely liking the idea of responsibility. But why did Aoi? They had bonded but was it enough for the Miyazato to respect and dutifully follow commands? Mamoru? The boy seemed to respect her. Something that Meilin had liked but did wonder at times. Their clans were on bad terms - likely at the ready to plunge at each other's throat at the smallest chance given. For how long would he remain respect and loyal?
"I can't say much. But I learned some tricks from the White Blade. And a Sworn Sword," Meilin replied, only realising that she had quite some luck of having to be on same operations as what were actually 'giants', compared to her abilities.
"I first served underneath the Green Falcon. The leader of the Nimatsu clan, Kensuke. He didn't teach me much, at first. But I start to see why he led the team as he did. I think, at least," Meilin said as she briefly stared into the fire, "I am hoping that one day I can talk with him again."

"Ah, the Green Falcon, I heard of that name," Dagrún said as she rubbed her hands. An amused scoff resonated from the blonde Hon. "I have heard that he could cut down five foes at the same time. And being plagued by being cursed by Bergjlot herself. Not to mention, being someone that had been mentored by Lord Hon himself." Dagrún paused as she moved her hands back to the comfort that her blanket provided.
"I would very much meet and test my mettle against him. Actually," the grin morphed into a smile, "I have a lot of people that I would like to face off against."

Meilin couldn't help to be a bit surprised. She had imagined that the likes of the Dowhon weren't that intrigued by renowned Taika or Yakimara fighters. Listening to Dagrún, Meilin couldn't help but chuckle upon the revelation that Dagrún was eager to face many famous foes.
"I have time. Do you have a list with you?"

"Oh cap', let me indulge ye!"
 
[ 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 2 ]​


Previous Part(s):
Part 1​



The Chuunin nearly fell flat on her face as the ship violently rocked from the impact. Managing to barely save herself from that fate, she watched as the troops in front of them immediately surged forwards to start the slaughter. Then Nishi started to follow, having told them to stay close. As such, Yukimi too started to surge forwards as she could practically feel the the adrenaline rampaging through her veins. Then again, their world shook as another ship slammed into the raft, and Yukimi once more had to steady herself from the rocking of the ships. Then finally, it was their turn to board the enemy ship.

Through the cacophony of battle, Yukimi was only just barely able to even hear the order from Nishi to continue onwards. Not long after, their team leader was going up the wall towards the second layer of the ship. There, it seemed archers were preparing a volley for their own troops. Yukimi was not far behind Nishi, making it up and immediately unleashing her Kunai she had been holding towards the nearest archer still standing, and watching as it buried itself in the man's chest and sent him staggering back. Immediately, she had produced another kunai, and was aiming to keep the enemy occupied, so the rest of the team wouldn't need to worry about being attacked before they made it up.

As the ship slammed into the behemoth of a sea vessel, Hikari did her best to stay standing. Keeping her hand on the handle of her blade, she followed Nishi, whose barely audible order to remain close barely got to her. As Nishi and Yukimi started heading up, Hikari followed suit, doing her best to keep up with the other two. First to vanish from her line of sight, on the side of the ship, was Nishi, and Yukimi vanished soon after. While she had some concern, she imagined that if either of them were caught by enemies, they would've likely toppled backwards and overboard.

Reaching the second layer, she got on it and immediately saw that both Nishi and Yukimi were working on pushing forward and allowing for a relatively safe approach onto the second layer. Drawing her tanto and charging forward, Hikari aimed to stay relatively close to Nishi, as ordered, but still try and give a bit space so they won't get caught in each other's attacks. She just hoped it would be possible to maintain the distance as she saw an enemy drop their bows and draw out a pair of daggers before moving towards her. Raising her tanto, Hikari started to deflect his attacks, trying to stand her ground the best she could. That alone was already a tough job, due to how crowded the enemy ship was. And at the same time, she tried spotting any kind of pattern or opening she could maybe use to take care of the one that was attacking her, before any more enemies started to come.

As the ship shook from the impact, Claire stumbled around a bit, barely maintaining her balance. Nishi had ordered them to stay close as she made her way up to the second layer where archers were preparing an attack. One after another each followed the jounin, Claire making sure to do the same. Sending out a few shuriken, the objects found targets here and there, mostly limbs of the figures above. Watching as an arrow flew towards her, the blonde moved out of the way as it cut through the ends of her hair. With little recovery she had to keep moving as more of the enemies fired at her, and those who boarded the larger vessel. It became a ranged battle quickly as arrows flew and shinobi tools soared. Claire could hear her heart pounding in her ears as she tried her best to distract some of the archers along with Yukimi. Once it seemed safe to proceed she moved to the second layer herself.
Upon ascending up a level she was met with another person who was ready to fight, a swortsword in their hand. Drawing her sickle she blocked an attack as the blade swung through the air. Using one hand to hold back the attack, Claire drew a kunai and stuck the man in the shoulder. Next thing she knew he had pushed her back and onto the ground as his shoulder slammed into her. His hand raised once more as he went to strike down, rolling to the side the genin had to make sure she didn't tumble off to the lower level. The lunge was avoided, once recovered she kicked the male's shin to stagger him and allow herself time to get back to her feet.

The archers started to stagger, driven back by Nishi's team. It seemed that the enemy wasn't able to reel back and respond properly just yet as they hadn't expected the sudden attempt.
However, the outnumbered shinobi team started to lose more ground as some of the archers dropped their bows. Reaching for knives, short maces and hatchets, it became clear that they were ready for a melee.
Able to land a killing blow, Nishi would release the handle on the kunai as her latest opponent sank to the ground - gurgling as blood started to fill his lungs, the pain paralyzing most of his movements.

Noting the enemy starting to use numbers to limit their attempts to lash out, Nishi took a step back. Realizing that they would soon enough be without space, Nishi shouted as she kept her eyes on her front.
"Backs to back!"
With the enemy starting to corner them, Nishi did gain an idea.
"Yukimi, freeze my technique once I launch it. Hikari, burn in front and use it to create a smokescreen."
Nishi had to pause as an enemy became too bold, stepping closer and wanting to lash out. In a swift response, Nishi leaned away while parrying the attack. Diverting her opponent's hatchet out of harm's way with one kunai, Nishi lashed out with her tanto. The sharp steel biting through the man's skin, slicing through his windpipe.
"Claire, Himiko, you guys ready explosive tags. Once we driven them back we go another level up. Once we are up, I want this place burning more."

Another enemy stepped forward and in a quick reaction, Nishi threw her kunai. The foe didn't die but reeled back from the attack.
Quickly bringing the handle of the tanto to her mouth, Nishi would bite on the handle as her hands flashed through the required handseals. Letting the handle go out of her mouth, the jounin effortlessly caught it in her hand again as she would bring out a wave of mud - directed at the foes in front of her.

As Hikari kept focusing on deflecting the man's attacks, she managed to find an opening and send a kick to his leg, making him stumble backwards and get hit by the weapons of his own comrades. Hearing Nishi call out to them to go back to back, Hikari moved closer to her sensei, listening to the instructions the best she could through the noise of the chaos, while keeping her eyes on the people that kept surrounding them and holding her tanto high. Hearing Nishi's orders, Hikari felt her confidence drop a bit. She knew a basic fire technique, sure, but she wasn't sure about using it so close to her own team. Seeing Nishi form the handseals, Hikari understood it was now or never. Lowering her Tanto, she put it between her legs and tightened her grasp on its handle the best she could. Hikari formed the Tiger handseal, and started spewing out fire in front of her. Due to the close proximity, she imagined many of the enemies around them would at the very least feel the heat, if not get burnt by the fire. She just had to make sure not to turn her head, so she won't get anyone from her team burnt too.

As the rest of the team arrived on their deck, and the enemy grew more bold, Yukimi continued her efforts to keep them back. As one man came in quicker than Yukimi had expected, swinging his weapon in a savage attack that might have caught her off guard, she stepped back quickly to avoid the hit. Though it still cut the fabric on the front of her vest, nothing more than a surface wound. In the next moment, the chuunin responded with a swift cut from her kunai along his weapon arm, causing her opponent to yelp and drop the weapon. Moments later, he fell to the ground clutching at his bleeding throat. Hearing the orders given, the chuunin gave a firm nod towards the team leader. The air around her started to plummet in temperature, though not to the level that had sunk the previous boat. As Nishi launched her technique, Yukimi complied with her orders. The temperature around the mud which had been launched plummeted, and the technique froze nearly instantly as Nishi had desired.

She could hear orders being yelled too the team as she stood to her feet. Seconds later mud was on the deck, she could feel the heat from Hikari's fire, then the cold from Yukimi. Once fully recovered she readied the explosive tags. She waited to send any out, first they needed to get up a level. Looking up to the next deck she scanned for enemies and a route to get up there. Her attention was focused back on her opponent quickly as he lunged once more. Dodging she felt her side get grazed by his blade. Grasping the kunai she drove it into his neck and within a few seconds after it was pulled out, the man fell to the ground gasping for air. Above she could see more enemies readied for any attackers who went to their level. A bit further down the deck less were seen. "Sensei there are some above us waiting but a bit further down it seems less troops are gathered. I say we go up there so they have less of an advantage."

The flames brought upon the enemy crew and ship on one side would scorch a few men alive, too tightly packed and pressed forwards by their enemies. Their screams would raise in volume with each passing second, only to simmer down slowly and being overwhelmed by the chaos and violence nearby.
From the other side, Nishi's mud technique would splatter on various enemies - who were either taken back by surprise or disgust. Only for moments later to find parts of their bodies frozen cold, the agony rising rapidly and sending waves of pain throughout their body.

Not bothered much by the display of the cruelty that was placed upon their foes, Nishi managed to register what was shouted, though it was hard to figure out which of her pupils stated it.
Throwing a glance upwards, Nishi didn't like the odds. The enemy wasn't stupid enough to figure out that they were attempting to disrupt multiple levels.
"Follow me. Blow the tags to cover our movements at my mark." The jounin shouted as she readied herself to go first. A few projectiles started to rain down but the smoke produced by the fire technique of Hikari gave them a bit of a cover - even if it was just one side.
Turning to the nearby wall, Nishi would focus her chakra. Pressing one boot and glove to the wood, she would start to rapidly scale the wall. An enemy noticed the jounin's attempt and would try to force her away, his spear jabbed towards Nishi.
A sharp rasping sound ringed in Nishi's ears as she pressed on, her kunai sliding against the sharp edge of her enemy's spear.
Reaching the top, she would be forced to lean away for a second. Attempting to grab the shaft of the spear resulted in the woman being slammed against the wooden wall - as her opponent yanked his weapon back while the gloved hand of Nishi managed to get a hold.
"Kai."
Keeping herself pressed against the wall, a short sequence of explosions followed. Reaching upwards, Nishi would vault into the smoke produced by the deception of before.

"Come on girls," Nishi shouted as she saw how a good dozen or two of enemies started to point their spears at the created opening, ignoring the desperate pleas of their wounded comrades.

Yukimi followed Nishi as she was ordered to do mere moments after Nishi was off up the wall. Just behind her Sensei as the tags were detonated, following the woman through the smoke. As she came out and saw the spears all pointed at them, Yukimi ground herself to a halt, eyes wide. "Sensei, I can put up temporary shields if those spears come in." She hissed, already moulding her chakra in case it was needed to defend the coming teammates from the spears.

As Nishi started to give more instructions, Hikari stopped letting out fire and broke the seal, quickly grabbing the tanto from between her legs, before moving to follow Nishi and Yukimi who already started moving upwards. There was a mix of screams and shouts, smoke and cold mist, and it was overall chaotic, but Hikari made sure to keep her eyes on Nishi's back, to not lose track of her as they moved up the wall. By the time she caught up to Yukimi, an explosion had occurred, and Nishi called the team to follow her through the smoke. Taking careful steps, Hikari was soon greeted with the sight of numerous enemies, all wielding spears as far as she could see. There were enemies on the ground, but Hikari elected to ignore them and focus on the ones that could still harm her or her team. As Yukimi offered to put up temporary shields, Hikari just kept her eyes locked on the enemies that were the closest to her while making sure her grip around her tanto was firm. She had no intention of letting anyone get to her or get through her to the team.

Nishi had ordered them to go up, Claire followed suit as each member made their way to the next level. The smoke providing cover as the genin threw more explosive tags about. More explosions meant more distractions. The spears would be an issue for the team as they made it up. Tossing kunai, shuriken and any weapon she had on her, the small objects whizzed up towards the enemies. If she could she would have used her sickle but her chakra was concentrated on her feet for the time being. Once with the team she let her chakra concentrate on a link to her sickle, her feet planted on the ground firmly as she began to spin the weapon, ready to send it flying at the snap of an order.

There seemed to be a moment where both sides were wary to give any order. Nishi didn't respond to Yukimi's words, her attention more focused on the enemy. Once every member of Nishi's team had joined her, the jounin considered their approach rapidly.
The enemy was holding a defensive stance, their row of spears giving them a clear advantage. One that couldn't be nullified with just throwing weapons or jutsu at them. Glancing at the wooden floor that they all stood on, it clicked in Nishi's mind.
"Yukimi, freeze the floor," the jounin sternly ordered as she pulled another kunai and took a protective stance, as a step forwards. "Hikari, guard the right flank. Burn every bastard to a crisp, if they get too close. Himiko and Claire, prepare two explosive tags. Once Yukimi is done, you guys blow up the ice. We are crashing this party."
 
[ A Raven teaches a Dragon! ]
[ A collaberative post between @Oblivion666 and @Autumn Song ]
[ Eastern Continent | near the 11th Imperial brigade Encampement ]
[ Kazumo spends some time with Hylli, teaching the later some of tips and tricks regarding stealth. The training further evolves in Kazumo teaching Hylli about tracking and hunting - a most valuable set of skills. ]​


Today he was given not a job nor a mission but more so a task, It was to help train Hylli in some categories she might be lacking in. This was more so a bit challenging in the fact he himself felt he still needed more training, yet also to find something for her to train in. He could train her in multiple things but some of them he felt better for Aiko to teach than him. So he went with what his dad taught him, the art of being patient and quiet. Kazumo had already gotten permission to use the nearby forest that was situated behind their camp, so it was already in the area they had controlled. Now all that he needed was Hylli to show up, he had sent instructions to dress a bit warmer as they would be outside the majority of today, and to also pack her own supplies.

Jogging towards the place where she would Kazumo, Hylli was wearing the gear of the unit. The soft jingeling of chainmail was drowned out by the ambience of the military encampment. Where it first had been a maze of tents, wooden structures and paths, she had started to adjust on where various facilities and meeting places were.
Nearing the place where Kazumo had told her that they would meet up, the Hyuzu gained a faint smile as she noticed the other.
"Master Scylding," Hylli said as she approached, the layers of cloth, padding and armour providing enough warmth together with the movement she had already done. "I got some rations as you told me. Together with two full skins of water," Hylli began as she gestured to the backpack that was mandatory with the imperial soldier kit, "Together with a small spade, my tools and weapons. And a pan!" Reaching backwards, she would pat the frying pan gently as she awaited Kazumo's response.

When he heard the jingling of chainmail getting closer and closer, he perked his head up and held back a snicker at the sight coming towards him. He admired the attitude to make sure one was prepared but she may have gone a bit overboard he felt. Maybe this is how Aiko thought he was like when he started out.
"You certainly are well prepared for whatever may happen today. Shame it's going to be more difficult for you today." Kazumo stated as he picked up his bow and quiver, along with his smaller bag.
"I'm not as skilled as our sensei, but I can at least help you learn patience like my father taught me. So today you are hunting an animal. Which means you need quiet and patience lots of it. So some things you need to know about hunting, animals have very keen hearing. The slightest sound that is unnatural to them is enough to jerk their attention to it. So the sound of chainmail jingling is very much unnatural to them. Yet move carefully enough and choose your timing well and it shouldn't hinder you that much."

Kazumo would then pull out a knife and toss it at a tree about fifty feet away from them. "Now pretend that knife is a doe. Done right one can walk right on up to the animal if quiet enough but not even I'm that good so. I want you to walk as quietly as you can towards that knife. Take into consideration your surroundings. Sure the area is covered in snow which can make footsteps more quiet but under that snow? Could be a branch, maybe a trap. So you want to think what pathway would be more quiet in the long run."

Smiling faintly as Kazumo acknowledged her being well prepared, she didn't mind if things would become difficult. After all, so far all the trainings had been difficult. And quite painful, at best. When Kazumo explained that he would help her to learn patience and hunting, she was all ears.
The given task made some sense. Though she hoped that they weren't expecting her to stalk and kill any wild with a knife or her bare hands. Nodding to signal that she understood the task, Hylli looked down - reviewing her gear.

She wore the standard armour that the Axebiters were supposed to equip themselves with. Though chainmail made a soft jingeling sound - which was hard to catch with the human ear when focusing on other matters or from various angles, Hylli doubted that an animal would have the same trouble.
Kneeling down, she would make a decision on the spot. Opening her bag, she would pull out a reserve tunic. Pulling it over the outer layer of her gear, which consisted out of the chainmail, Hylli made sure that the cloth was against the steel rings - restricting their movement and dampening their sounds significantly.
Looking up from her crouched position, Hylli bite her lower lip. She analysed rapidly her way of approach. Leaving her backpack on the ground, Hylli softly exhaled as she straightened her back.

Surely but slowly the Hyuzu moved towards the 'target'. The solution of before would muffle any sound of the chainmail and with her experience at stealth, she had little trouble to avoid lot of other problems that people made when sneaking.
Approaching the target, there was a good ten feet away. Eager to finally score some success and prove her worth, Hylli stepped forwards.

A soft crack of wood resonated, somehow loudly and overwhelming all other noise. Freezing on the spot, Hylli's eyes lowered as she saw the branch on which she stepped. Realising that she had failed, Hylli sighed and would walk back to the start - where Kazumo stood.
"Well, that didn't work."

Kazumo would watch in silence as she began her attempt at his task, this wasn't really a success or fail type of challenge but more so how she went about it. He would patiently wait until the loud crack of a branch was heard. When she walked back saying that didn't work, he would shake his head.
"It's not that it didn't work, it's more so how you went about it. You were more worried about the target itself I feel. When one frets about sound is usually when they end up making it. Sticking to the treeline is a viable option in warmer seasons. You can see where you are stepping, however snow can muffle it. It can also be a hindrance as well. That tree branch for example."

Kazumo then smiled at her with a more apologetic smile. "However this was more so to see how determined you were to get the job done. Hunting an animal and being quiet is more easy than hunting a person. An animal has better hearing for sure, yet they pay less attention if they don't need to. Hence sounds they aren't used to. A person however is more aware, maybe worse hearing but far more aware in certain situations. Try again this time, don't over analyze it, take your time. Hunting an animal is much like an assassination, you don't want to rush it, take your time and you will get to a point you can get your hit." Kazumo said as he motioned for her to do it again.

Listening to what Kazumo told her, Hylli patiently listened. She had to admit that she didn't expect him to be the kind of guy that was so well in explaining. For some reason, she had expected Kazumo to be a tad more closed off and reluctant to explain matters. Shaking the thoughts off and focusing on his words, Hylli nodded and flashed a faint smile.
"Thanks. I was indeed more worried about the target. Thanks for the tips and all, much appreciated, master Scylding." Hylli responded as she readied herself for the second attempt.

Controlling her breathing Hylli lowered herself by a bit as she would move forward. More mindful of where she placed her steps and wary of her pace, her eyes remained fixated on the target. The fact she wasn't dealing with a target that responded to sound made it riskier to attempt any distractions. Then again, it also didn't move so she berated herself silently for overthinking the situation.
Once more she was getting close to the target, her heart skipping a beat as she swore that in the reflection of the steel she could see herself.

Halting herself, the Hyuzu's nostrils briefly widened. Realizing where she had been wrong before, Hylli allowed herself to quickly glance around. There were some patches of ground not covered by the snow, which formed a way towards the knife in the tree.
Slowly but surely she started to move once more towards the target.

"Finally," she muttered underneath her breath as her fingers wrapped around the handle of the weapon. Pulling the weapon out Hylli turned towards Kazumo's direction, waving the knife above her.
"I finally got it!" She would shout before jogging back towards Kazumo. Once close enough she would flip the knife and present the handle towards the young man. "I believe this was yours."

Smiling he would take the handle of the knife and would sheath it. "Good, granted it's different against a living target. Yet it allows you to get the feeling of being more quiet and patient. So now we're going to put it into more practical use. You are going to hunt any animal you want. I'm saying no to birds as they are more tricky. Yet any animal, small or big. You can even apply things like this into assassinations. Tracking." Kazumo said as he motioned for her to grab her stuff and to then follow him.

They would walk for a few minutes before he held up his hand for her to stop, crouching he would motion for her to look at the tracks. It had some small foot prints but they were also in the shape of small hooves. "Things like this are very important to keep your eye out for. This could be a couple of things. A doe, possibly a boar, maybe even some wildlife not found where we are from. While it's simply a set of tracks it still is very important. Animals, even people leave some kind of trace of themselves. So now it's the hard part but the most important one. Being patient and tracking it. So go ahead and lead the way." Kazumo said with a smile as he would now follow her and how she went about this.

The fact that she was heading out to actually track and hunt down something alive made her stomach slightly turn, out of excitement. It was in any sense much better than to try to sneak upon Kazumo, she figured.
Following the young man, Hylli paid attention to what he told her. Crouching next to Kazumo, Hylli observed the tracks. Nodding to emphasise that she understood him, the instruction that he gave her made Hylli observe the tracks. Looking at what direction they pointed towards, she would count them.

"Seems like two pairs," Hylli stated, pointing at the set of other hooves, imprinted in the snow. "heading that way," the young woman pointed at the direction, wanting to clarify her thought process and be transparent towards Kazumo. Rising from the crouched stance, Hylli looked at the direction up ahead. The vegetation was still green - due to the higher altitude allowing pine trees and similar vegetation to take root.

Following the tracks, Hylli decided to pose a question towards Kazumo. "So, who taught you all of this? Lady Cho?"

He would follow along quietly as she did the task given to her when she would point out several things, like the other set of tracks and which direction they were headed. He smiled but gave a shrug, he couldn't give her every answer after all. They could be going in that direction maybe she was missing something. As they continued though she would pose upon him a question to which he kinda waved his hand a bit in a yes and no manner.
"Depends. It's a mix of both her and my father. He taught me how to hunt, she taught me how to hunt people in a way. But I think my life story is the least of your concerns now."

As Kazumo stated, the area up ahead that the tracks led to, grew harder to see with the clustered pine trees keeping most snow from falling. Leaving it more grass than snowy, This prompted Kazumo to look at her. "A unplanned scenario, your target is now covering their tracks meaning you now have to find the smallest of details to find out where they went. Yet don't let this affect you, yes you need to get to them but don't rush it and miss obvious clues." Kazumo said as he folded his arms and smiled, hinting that he wasn't gonna help her find out this time around.

It was somewhat ominous to hear that he had been taught how to hunt people from Aiko. It only seemed to confirm once more that the friendly woman was more than met the eye. Following Kazumo, she had hoped to learn more about him. But the fact he stated his life story was the least of her concern made her hesitant to persist. Musing to herself that he would perhaps be more willing to converse in another setting or time, Hylli put her focus on the task at hand.
Listening as Kazumo explained the next course. For her, it seemed as not much had changed, aside from the terrain. Hylli would, however, nod as she decided to get to work.

Determined the young woman would crouch and look for clues. It took her several painstaking minutes before she found something.
It was brown and small but the stench was clear: the pellet was poop. It didn't help in what direction their quarry was. Yet, it was something Hylli thought to herself.
Eager to find more, the Hyuzu started to look around. This time to the various branches of the vegetation. She reasoned to herself, in silence, that there were more hints than on the ground.
"Thought so," Hylli mumbled to herself upon finally finding some fur. It was light and very easy to look over. Immediately crouching, Hylli searched the ground. If the branch had caught some of the fur, then a track shouldn't be too far. Finding a track in some mud between the grass, Hylli observed it. It was another hoof.
"I suppose it went that direction," Hylli said, a bit louder to signal her findings to Kazumo. Straightening her back and rising from her crouched stance, she turned half towards the other. "Though before we continue, with what am I supposed to kill it? I got nothing big enough to tackle down a deer in a one hit without, you know, likely damaging the fur or meat."

Kazumo chuckled and would hand over his bow and quiver. "With this. Do be careful with it. My father gave me that and I would rather it not get damaged. Bow's have a strong draw weight so make sure you are ready to take the shot. Trust me you don't want to hold that string back for long. Also put this on your hand" Kazumo said reaching into his bag and pulling out a protective hand piece.
"If you aren't used to shooting a bow you might want that." Kazumo said before stopping in his tracks and pointing up ahead at the two does. Kazumo simply motioned for her to take her shot when ready, keeping quiet so as to not disturb anything.

When Kazumo presented his bow and quiver, Hylli froze for a few seconds. Her lips parted but no coherent word or sound came out. Accepting the bow and quiver, she would weigh the weapon in one hand. As Kazumo reached out for something in his bag, Hylli equipped the quiver and held the bow.
"Thanks," she responded as she fastened the protective piece of gear. Part of her wanted to say nothing while another demanded that she stated that she had never shot with a bow and arrow.
Following Kazumo, Hylli briefly tested out the string - by pulling it gently back. Experiencing the draw weight was intimidating. Once more reminding Hylli that this wasn't a toy that her sibling used to have.
Noticing something on the shaft of the bow, Hylli couldn't but smile. A raven was inscribed, which certainly was typical for a Scylding bow. Yet it was a nice touch.
"Hm? Ah," Hylli nodded to emphasis that she saw the two animals. Drawing and nocking an arrow - although a bit clumsy, Hylli fixed her attention on the two possible targets.

Both animals didn't seem to be overly large or sturdy. Perhaps all it took was a well-aimed arrow at the throat or vital organs to kill it? She wanted to ask but realised that they had to be quiet. Inhaling softly, Hylli overviewed the situation. There was enough vegetation to cover herself visibly from the does, in order to get close to land an easier shot.
Realising that she hadn't managed to achieve a lot since her arrival, Hylli bit her lower lip as she moved.
Slowly and silently, the Hyuzu made her progress. Dividing her attention to where she placed a next step to the quarry, Hylli felt her heart beating in her chest. As she reached the place, which was closer to the does, she would raise the bow - the point of the arrow towards the animals.
"Valdar," Hylli whispered underneath her breath as she slowly pulled the arrow back - feeling the weight that Kazumo spoke off. "Please..."
Unleashing the projectile, Hylli froze as she was able to register what happened but unable to react.

The arrow soared through the vegetation, its steel tip piercing through fur and flesh. A pained cry came from the hit animal, that stumbled for a mere second and then joined its companion in running - only with an arrow in its side.
"Shit, shit, shit," Hylli said as her body shot forward, only realising that she had wasted a great shot.
"Damnit," the word left Hylli's lips softly but with such frustration that it nearly seemed a cuss.

Kazumo kept silent and watched her aim and take her shot, granted he spotted the flaw right away but by then she had already fired. With the arrow piercing the deer in the side, it wouldn't be enough to have killed right away. Given some time however it probably would succumb to its wound. Kazumo simply stared at her as she began to curse her failed shot to which he pointed in the direction the doe went.

Keeping a stern look this time he would already be pushing her in the direction of the doe. "No time to curse what was done. Your target is now wounded and running. Now you keep on it, a wounded target is a panicked one. It's bound to make erratic movements and have lapse in what to do next. Get your arrow ready and chase it, I wasn't kidding when I said you weren't leaving until what you were hunting was dead. This is very much a test as it is training. Now keep a level head and finish your target." Kazumo said as he kept a good jogging pace in the direction of the doe.

The push caused Hylli to frown but she recovered relatively fast. Nodding, she nocked another arrow and started to follow the trail. Her head was feeling slightly light, her right hand itching together with her heart skipping beats.
The trail was quite easy to follow. The crimson specks on the ground and plants allowed them to follow the wounded animal easily.
Her attention divided to the tracks as to where they were heading. Ignoring the brush of pineleaves slamming against her, Hylli finally noticed the wounded animal up ahead.

Inhaling slowly, the Hyuzu didn't slow down as she pulled the string - feeling the heavy draw weight resisting the motion. Raising the bow, the Hyuzu took aim before releasing an arrow. The projectile soared through the air before drilling the steel tip into the doe's back. Causing the wounded animal to miss its balance, falling down on the ground.
Rushing towards the wounded animal Hylli didn't draw another arrow. Pulling out a knife, she only needed a moment to aim and land on her right foot. In a swift motion Hylli threw the weapon, aimed at the doe's head.

Coming to a halt, Hylli stared at the animal. Two arrows were stuck in it, together with a knife penetrating the doe's skull. There wasn't any experience of grief or shock moving through Hylli as she crouched next to her kill.
Pulling the knife back, she whispered something softly before cleaning the blood from the doe's fur and sheathing the weapon back.
"Not what I imagined it to be," she said, louder to make herself audible for Kazumo, "hunting that is."
Rising up from her crouched stance, she would offer the bow back. "So, what is the best way to get this kill back to camp?"

He would simply follow and watch in silence as she continued the task given to her. He gave a smile when she took another shot toppling the deer and then making sure it didn't suffer anymore pain. A chuckle escaped his lips at her not quite picturing hunting to be like this.
"Well it usually isn't as stressful as I made it to be today. More so I tried teaching by using hunting as the example, it has similarities but there is always that difference you have to keep your mind on."

When asked what to do with the kill and what was the best way to get it back, he would give a small smile while digging into his bag. Pulling out some thick rope he would walk over to the doe and start tying the rope around it's legs. "With a lot of patience and effort. I'll help pull it back that's the least I can do I suppose." Kazumo said as he began to make way back to camp.

Watching Kazumo tying their quarry with some rope, Hylli flashed a grin as he started to pull the dead animal. Hooking a thumb behind her belt, she nodded approvingly.
"Such class master Scylding. I like our teamwork. We should do this more often!"
The grin would morph into a smile as Hylli placed both her hands behind the back of her head. It was the first time since she had came eastwards that she actually had acomplished something - in her opinion. Though their hunt wouldn't the source of legends, it was a good enough start.
"Really though. I enjoyed today. I am looking forward to learn more from you."
 
  • Like
Reactions: Nim
Concluding team 9's previous exercise
With the physical work done, Kyoi pitches a test of theory to Masami and Shikaroku, prior to Kyoi meeting Junko.
@RedFox @ChromeHound

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.

The plan the two had concocted for the time being seemed solid enough, so it was up to her to find and exploit a gap in the current guard. "Thorough, covering any blind spots with Masami's Byakugan whilst observing the enemy position. First day of observations goes well, giving a decent understanding of the guard rotation and numbers, no one seems to notice you. But, early on the second day there's commotion in the camp, some of the men you've seen are being moved out of the camp, due west, to reinforce the front with more likely to come to replenish their reduced numbers within the day. Something to note is that you've seen a number of red cloaks among their ranks, roughly half of those you've spotted seem to be going with the others to the front. Both genin appear to be concerned about the moving forces, and want to report this back to the front in order to give them decent warning about the enemy's reinforcements."

"So, what do you think you should do about this?"

Masami listened to the feedback and to Kyoi assessing their situation. She was glad that the plan the two of them came up with was at least acceptable. But then, their situation changed. The commotion in the camp, the movement of troops and the presence of the Red Cloaks was something that made even Masami feel uneasy just by imagining it. She could not blame anyone for feeling uneasy about their predicament, as she would feel the same. She tightened her right hand into a fist as she pondered on what to suggest. The prospect of facing Red Cloaks, who might discover them, while trying to protect two Genin was unsettling. She knew she could count on Shikaroku, and she gave him a brief look. She took a deep breath and turned back to Kyoi.

"I do understand the concerns of the Genin. Seeing all the commotion in the camp would suggest that they plan something, and the presence of Red Cloaks suggests this notion. Since any radio contact over the distance between us and the front lines could easily be picked up, it is out of the question. My suggestion would be to tighten our perimeter and make haste towards our lines. We would spot as much about their movements as possible. I'd be using my Byakugan all the time to know whether our path is clean. As soon as we would arrive to our lines, we'd report immediately. Any suggestions from your part, Shikaroku?"

Thinking for a long moment, Shikaroku remained silent, his hands clasped in front of him. Finally, he let out a slight sigh. "Respectfully, I would have to disagree with that plan." His tone held a hint of remorse and the Nara glanced at Masami before continuing. "The mission was to observe for three days before returning. If we abandon the mission after the first day, we risk losing valuable information. With that said, however..." Pausing again, he returned his attention to Kyoi. "This new information needs to be relayed to camp, which means we would need to split the team up to accomplish both tasks." Scratching his chin for a moment, Shikaroku continued.

"Due to the speed required, I'd be inclined to leave both Genin behind with Masami to keep watch on the enemy while I travel back to the front to warn our forces." He glanced back at Masami for a moment before continuing, "Masami's skills and Byakugan make her the best fit to keep watch on the camp with the two Genin supporting her. With two Genin there, they can spread their watch evenly and keep distance while still maintaining a clear view on the camp. Should they be discovered, there is a greater chance that at least one of them is able to escape and make it back to the front to report what happened. Should I be discovered on my way back to the front, then I could radio the front without compromising the others. If I were to be captured or killed, there would only be a loss of one person, rather than two."

Weighing the input from the two stood before her, Kyoi would slowly nod. "Okay, so Shikaroku voluntarily splits off from the team to run this information back to the front whilst Masami, Shinji and Yukari remain behind to continue their watch in the hopes that things go well. Shikaroku, plug your ears or step off to the side, not being present means you don't know what's going to happen from here on out after all. I will ask the same of Masami when it's your turn."

As soon as Shikaroku was out of the picture, Kyoi's gaze would rest on Masami. "So, splitting the watch in three between yourself and the genin, while they may be anxious about Shikaroku leaving they at least understand the importance of his departure. With the moving out of troops there's a distinct lull in movement for about half the day, guard patrols being less frequent and seemingly little else being done around the rest of the camp aside from the obviously disciplined routine movements of the Red Cloaks that remain."

"Roughly around noon, an influx of troops arrive at the camp, neither you nor the genin have seen any reactionary movement from the camp in relation to Shikaroku's movements and the routine around the camp is returning to normal. Though, you do see two abnormal chakra signatures moving around since the arrival of fresh enemy forces, visual contact reveals them to be of the hulking, brute-ish sort, their presence generally disgusts and discomforts you, but all the genin see are two big men and they voice as such… What do you do?"

Masami listened closely to what Kyoi said to them. It was obvious that Shikaroku came up with a better plan and she acknowledged it with a mere nod, realizing, with the benefit of hindsight, that she would violate orders with her actions. The activity around the camp would dull down a bit, less guards expect the regular movement of the Red Cloaks. That was hardly a surprise, seeing how they stood out from the Rongese troops they were commanding. Without having facing one herself, Masami could only work with what she heard from the persons who were facing one. What she knew made her really dread them. The fact that they showed no signs of having found Shikaroku gave her some relief, only to be replaced by an unease just by thinking about the two brutes.

" The appearance of the brutes and the additional forces would be cause for me to take an extra cautious approach towards our objective. I'd tighten our perimeter and use my Byakugan to keep a watch of their movements under a close watch. Whenever I'd need to rest them, the Genin would remain close. In regards to the true nature of the signatures, I am not sure about telling them about their overwhelming nature. It might unnerve them, increasing the probability of them panicking and making a bad call. They'd be told to be extra careful about them. In the meantime, we would log their activity, their numbers, but I would prepare several escape routes. Should the need arise, I'd stay behind to buy the Genin as much time to get back to our front as possible. Her gaze met Kyoi's as she finished, and she nodded, signaling that she was done with her answer and prepared to move to the side as it was Shikaroku's turn to answer.

With Masami's answer given and the young Hyuuga relinquishing her time to allow Shikaroku's end of the encounter to play out, Kyoi would wait for their positions to switch before clearing her throat. "Just to clarify, are you trying to get as far ahead of the moving forces as possible in order to give adequate warning to the front?"

Shikaroku listened while Masami spoke, but he did not focus too much on her answer as he did not wish for it to impact his own. After all, they would be separated now so his knowledge of anything happening back at the camp would be non-existent. When Kyoi asked him to clarify, he nodded slowly. "That is correct. Depending on the distance from the front, I would adjust accordingly. For example," he said, tilting his head to the side slightly, "If the front was within two days' travel, then I would force myself to travel through the night as well, taking advantage of the time that the enemy is resting to continue pushing ahead. If the front is further, then I would not push through the whole night, but would still rest less. Sleeping no more than 4 hours per night to ensure I was making up the distance. While I would be traveling quickly, I would not be forgoing stealth. I would ensure that I kept enough distance from the enemy forces so as to provide myself the best chance of not being discovered."

"Cautious, good. The front is three days out at current pace so stopping to rest is needed as per your conditions, taking into account what you've factored into your journey back you'll occasionally notice that they do have some forward scouts, but line of sight is highly limited what with the pace you've set. On the second day of your journey back you've outpaced them fairly well, even after stopping to sleep you don't see any sign of them. Time to swap back over." With that Kyoi gestured for Masami to approach.

"The reaction of the two Genin is more or less that of mild concern, but they listen to you and pay extra attention to those two as and when they're able to see them and they seem to remain within the camp, not doing much beyond what you could only assume is their normal routine. Escape routes are simple enough to make ready and there are currently no signs of the enemy being aware of you, but the guard patrols are spaced further out from the encampment now, noticeably so yet not close enough to put your observation point in immediate danger. What are you going to do?"

Masami walked over to Kyoi and listened to the situation developing, giving brief thought to it. She was glad that the Genin managed to stay calm, despite the situation, but she was a tad bit worried about how they might react to the patrols increasing the range of their search and coming closer to them. Upon brief consideration, she turned her head towards Kyoi."Without anything indicating they know either about us or Shikaroku, I would maintain a normal operation. But to be on the safe side, I'd pull our position back along one of the escape routes and tighten our perimeter - not breaking the line of sight between each other. We'd try to find a pattern in their patrols and whenever possible, go into a safe position ahead of our current one. We'd also prepare some traps among our retreat routes - explosive tags and smoke bombs, mostly. The primary goal remains the same - observe their movements and numbers, and if possible, find out more about the two outstanding chakra signatures. " She stated her response, waiting to be signaled to leave to give the spot for Shikaroku.

A nod followed by a small wave of her hand to ask Masami to step aside, Kyoi's attention would shift back to Shikaroku. "Shikaroku, as said before you have a significant lead on the enemy force, to the point where you can't see their movements even after sleeping for the four hours you've limited yourself to. What's the plan from here?"

Raising a single eyebrow, Shikaroku pondered the situation. "If I have just woken up, it is safest not to assume anything. First thing I would do is check my surroundings, both for traps but also any signs that the enemy somehow managed to get ahead of me." Folding his arms in front of him, the Nara continued, "Once the area has been cleared, I would then proceed with the same pace as before, making my steadily towards the front."

"Upon inspection of the area around you, there's no immediate signs that they've caught up, let alone passed you by. At a guess, based on the difference in pace between you and the enemy last time you saw them, they're at least a four to five hours behind you right now and you're likely to get at least half a day ahead of them at the current pace. Is there anything else you intend to do?"

"If there are no signs of traps or the enemy, then I would proceed to the front at the same point as before." Shikaroku said, meeting Kyoi's gaze. "The primary goal is to get to them as fast as possible to give them enough time to prepare."

"Alright, based on that then it's safe to say you'll get back to the front lines with approximately a days lead on the enemy, report the incoming force and become part of the defensive efforts. Your part of the exercise is over, unless you intend to go back to rendezvous with Masami and the genin on their way back. Think on it while we swap over again." Based on the current progress of the exercise, Kyoi was more or less pleased with what she was seeing.

But now her attention shifted back to Masami. "Drawing back towards an escape route somewhat limits your view of the camp, but you still have what information you've acquired up to now. Aside from the strange chakra signatures you can't discern much else with the camp. The third day is drawing to a close with little issue and the three day limit on the mission is at its end. Will you make ready to leave under the cover of night or early the next day after some rest?"

Masami's eyes met with those of Kyoi and she pondered upon the question. Their mission has come to an end. They had some intel, perhaps not as much as they were expected to gather.Not a surprise, given how safe I tried to be, she thought to herself. But the last question seemed to be the trickiest part of it. She knew that se can push herself way past her limits to make it back to their lines in one piece, but she wasn't sure about the Genin she was leading. Given how the situation was developing, she decided their best bet would be to head out immediately, using the cover of the night to their advantage."As much as I want the Genin to get some rest, I have the feeling that spending the night would be pushing our luck. I'd have them get some rest while I'd be on watch. I am aware that travelling during the night brings its own complications. We would travel in a tight formation, with me in the lead checking for traps and any potential foes or other signs of enemy activity. Rest would be every four hours for thirty minutes tops. Should things go sour, I'd stay behind and draw all the attention to me, so at least the Genin would make it back with the intel." Masami locked her eyes with Kyoi's, her voice being calm despite the subject matter. She waited for the response, hoping that she made the right choice.

Kyoi briefly narrowed her gaze at Masami upon hearing her answer, it was similar to what she would do, but it wasn't ideal in the off chance that she didn't make it back when providing a distraction. Though it was about time to end this scenario, they didn't have all the time in the day for this.
"Leaving at night is a safe move to make, the genin are able to get enough rest to begin the move back. With three of you moving over the next few days you find that you're not being followed, by now, if Shikaroku has decided to go back out to meet with the team upon your return journey then he will have rendezvoused with you. Anyway, you find the tracks of the enemy force that left the other day and before long you can see that there was a battle on our frontlines that seems to have gone in our favour. You make your report and the team is commended for sending someone back to inform our frontline about an advancing enemy, they make note of the strange signatures in your report and presumably they begin making preparations for when they arrive. Mission complete, the team is dismissed to get some rest." Kyoi would follow up with a small smile as she looked between the two.

"Now, to briefly review your actions during this exercise. The two of you did well in determining safe and relatively effective measures for observation, quick to determine a chain of command and take the general inexperience of two genin into account when setting up the initial plan. Despite your brief disagreement on reporting enemy movements ahead of time for the sake of our camps safety, you both accepted that our allies needed to be informed and split off."
Her gaze would shift to Shika first, to address his specific endeavour. "Shikaroku, your level of self discipline upon your lone trek back to camp is admirable, not overextending yourself nor taking things too lightly and giving ample time for a defensive response on our part. You did well."

Then her gaze returned to Masami. "As for your continued observation, Masami, there's only so much you can do whilst taking the safety of the other team members into account. Maintaining your passive observation as per your orders, not engaging the enemy in any situation and ensuring that team cohesion remained stable was wise. Though, I disagree on your decision to use yourself as bait for the enemy if you were followed and engaged. I wont downplay the experience of a genin, but in a situation where their leader sends them on ahead with information while they stay back, it's possible that they will be in over their heads and potentially caught by any foes who pass you by. It's possible to hold back several people but there's always the chance of some slipping through. Though seeing as you weren't spotted or caught, it's not a major issue. Well done on keeping the genin calm throughout the course of the mission, just try to avoid sacrificing yourself for others if everyone fleeing is still an option in mind or if you have the numbers advantage on a single, insurmountable foe."

"Regardless, you both showed some very sound and thought out decision-making skills, taking what you knew into account. If either of you have any questions or objections, feel free to speak up. Otherwise you two should prepare for our upcoming mission, I'll brief you in an hour after I collect our new recruit, fresh off the boat."

After a brief silence, it was obvious that neither of them had questions for Kyoi, so she turned around and cleared her throat. "Alright, you're both dismissed. Go recoup or whatever lovebirds do nowadays, be ready to reconvene here in an hour." She would say as she left the field, she had a few things to look over, and there was the need to get a good impression of this new recruit.
 
[ Lightning Country ]
[ On the road to Ranzaki | Royal Envoy | Mareo Hojo, leader of the Hojo Clan ]​

Several times already had Mareo realised why he wasn't the biggest fan of long-distance travel. Even with the luxuries, he could afford to travel with; he wasn't taking a liking to the various bumps and humps that his carriage encountered. The cold and damp weather wasn't ideally either.
But that didn't dampen Mareo's mood, in the slightest. For he was part of the royal envoy that had its destination as Ranzaki.
The civil war had come to a crashing end and victory for those that opposed the Regency council. Yet, there was much to be done.
The current peace between the great clans was fragile. Before, they had a common enemy and similar goals. Now? Each primary participant withdrew, licked their wounds and was on high alert for any political or military manoeuvring.
Not much of a surprise, Mareo mused to himself as he tried to ignore the last bump a few seconds ago. The soft pillows provided some respite, and the spacious carriage allowed Mareo all the comfort to be laying down - which was easier for his back.

And with the long trek towards the capital, Mareo also had gained enough time to ponder about the current political landscape.
In truth, his clan had gained a lot with the civil war. But if the Sanosuke and Alaricus were willing to band together, then Mareo wasn't entirely sure on how matters would evolve.
Another problem was the fact that there were clear signs that foreign operatives were at work. At first, Mareo suspected the Imperials and Earth country. The first because of the Raikage meddling, allowing the Imperials to move in and gain a large number of warships. A matter that didn't sit well with the old Hojo leader.
The second because who else would gain most with the Lightning being instable? However, it turned out that the captured and killed foreigners weren't of any descent that Mareo's operatives were aware of.
The current results pointed towards the eastern continent. Something that intrigued and worried Mareo. For if a significant power was on the verge to execute large manoeuvres on the Lightning, Mareo wasn't entirely sure of what outcome he could desire.

To that end, he realised that his plans should be executed, as fast as possible. And not to mention, keeping what kept his clan in power.
A playful smile dawned on Mareo's lips as he closed his eyes. Even two hundred more bumps wouldn't rob him of the satisfaction to know what he had achieved.
 
[ 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 2 ]​


Previous Part(s):
Part 1
Part 2​



Just when Nishi was about to finish, the enemy received their orders. In unison, the spearmen shouted and took a step forwards. The glistering steel tips of their weapons threatening Nishi's team. Another shout followed as the rows of spears came closer.

As she watched the defensive form in which the enemies stood in, Hikari tried to figure out if there was any kind of opening she could perhaps spot, but there was none that she could see with so many enemies pointing their spears at her. As Nishi started to give instructions, Hikari once more held her tanto between her legs, before beginning to form the seals for the fire technique. And before Nishi could finish her orders, the enemies started to move forward. Without hesitation, she let out a burst of flame, trying to cover the right flank the best she could. She didn't know how long she'd manage to keep the flames for, but she was going to try the hardest to ensure Nishi's plan gets executed without being interrupted in any way.

Hearing the orders issued, Yukimi gave a firm nod before the air around the girl would plummet severely in temperature. Immediately after, spreading quickly across the ground was a layer of ice as the floor started freeze, the water in the ships wood turning solid from the frozen temperature. A creaking that was familiar from the Junyo could be heard from the wooden deck complaining as Yukimi followed the orders of Nishi. Due to her focusing on flash-freezing the floor, the girl was forced to focus her chakra on the task at hand, and not at preparing a shield of ice as the enemy grew closer, but in return the deck froze in a near instant, ready for the explosion from her teammates.

Once the orders were given, the genin waited for the deck to freeze. The enemy was already moving on them as their own commands were given. Feeling the heat from Hikari and the sheer cold from Yukimi she knew they were playing this close and every second would count. Seeing the ice coat the deck, Claire didn't hesitate as she threw her tags. The two kunai sticking into the ice before exploding, causing the sheet to crack, the wood splintering around the tags. The crash seemed more literal as the deck was destroyed, the wood snapping and breaking underneath them. She had hoped this would work in their favor but the last time it nearly killed them.

The enemy seemed to waver for a mere moment, the fierce resistance of Nishi's team able to buy them a few precious seconds. And within those precious seconds, it happened. A loud cracking occurred after the frozen wood was punished by the explosive tags. The foundation of the wood splintered, allowing confusion to settle in. Only for fear to follow.
The floor started to cave in as the collective weight was too much for the remainder of the foundation to support. Enemy soldiers felt and attempted to cling to something, only to descend with a fall to the second floor - their fall quickly followed by one or two comrades in pursuit.
"We repeat this. Till we sink this abomination. Move!" Nishi ordered. The jounin weaved a few handsigns as she slowly started to slide to the huge opening within the floor. Upon finishing the streak Nishi took a deep breath in, only to narrow her eyes and start to spit out what seemed to be some kind of material.
The material would crash on the second floor and start to solidify as expanding. Soon allowing a large, stout wall to seperate the falling troops from another section.

Holding her breath in Nishi would slide off and towards the second level. Upon landing on the wooden deck she quickly turned around. Only to continue the progress to close off the entrance from where enemies could attempt to disturb them.

With the floor exploding before them, Yukimi staggered back for a moment from the force of the explosion and the rain of shrapnel that made tiny cuts along her skin. As the orders were issued and Nishi slide down to the second level, Yukimi followed suite. Landing gracefully next to Nishi, she immediately caused the air around them to plummet once more, focusing her efforts on freezing the floor of this deck a little bit away from them, where they were not in the danger zone of the immediate explosions from the tags. Despite the frozen air, the girl could feel sweat along her skin as the effort from the continual usage of her Kekkei Genkai proved rather taxing over time. Still, she had work to do, and simply focused on the task at hand as the wood once more started to complain from the icing. "Ready! The Chuunin announced to her two teammates with the tags to blow the floor, even as it once more loudly groaned in complaint from their actions.

The Explosion occurred, giving Hikari a chance to stop for a moment and then watch as the others moved to slide down the new opening. Quickly following, Hikari reached the lower deck and then formed a few seals. While seeing Nishi start to close off different paths that the enemy could try and use, Hikari started to blow fire once again, aiming away from her team and making sure to try and provide cover. She could feel herself start to sweat from the consistent usage of the technique, and she hoped this won't end up being a test of just how much she could use this particular technique.

The next level was being readied to break down as Yukimi froze the wood once more. Claire followed her team, stumbling some as she made her way down. As Nishi and Hikari provided cover, the genin waited for the signal to throw more tags. Once she heard the chuunin give the okay, she threw a few more tags. Seconds later they exploded, causing the wood to again buckle, splinter and snap. The opening showing them the next deck below as it grew bigger and bigger from the weight of the vessel putting pressure on the weakening wood. "Next floor, we are almost there." She said a bit confidently and encouraged her team any way she could.

Watching as the wood cracked Nishi would signal with a hand sign for her team to wait and stop. The loud moaning of the foundation gave away that the damage started to work the desired process. The earth wall seemed to even add to the effect, the weight causing more of the floor to crack and collapse.
The noise was overwhelming the chaos and violence from outside, drowning out everything that was audible before. Watching their results, Nishi's expression remained blank. For many bodies seemed covered underneath the debris. And most were still desperately moving.
"We move." The voice of Nishi sharply cut through the air, her tone making it clear that she wouldn't tolerate anyone backing out.

Leaping down, Nishi landed on some debris. Ignoring the sounds of those trapped underneath the weight of the debris, she saw a few Republican soldiers and shinobi caught underneath it.
"Yuki and Claire. Crash this floor. Now. Hikari, guard the left. Himiko, the right." Nishi shouted as she drew her tanto. A few enemies stumbled into the somewhat more spacious area - confused why the second floor had caved in and why there were Republican shinobi. But the confusion was quickly replaced with determination, surging forwards to stop whatever Nishi's team was attempting.

As the floor exploded once more, Hikari stopped her technique and quickly followed Nishi down. She noticed there were not only enemies that were stuck underneath the rubble they now stood on, but also Republican soldiers. Their allies. But Nishi's orders made her turn her attention away from those that had been unfortunate to become stuck. Moving to the left side, she once more formed the seals for her fire technique, only this time she had begun feeling slight dizziness. Focusing the best she could, she formed the last seal and started letting out fire once more, hoping it would not take long. She wasn't sure if she could another time with how she was beginning to feel.

The girl was started to feel the strain for certain, sweating despite the fact the air was literally freezing around her. Breathing a bit heavy, she nodded towards Nishi and dropped to the next floor as well. Focusing once more on freezing the floor, Yukimi tried to actively ignore the living people below her feet that were steadily being frozen once more as the floor once again started to creak. "... Ready!" Yukimi declared, amidst heavy breathes as she felt the fatigue from focusing so much on her own techniques. Hopefully this floor would give way soon, as the Yuki was also not certain of how long she could keep this effort up. It proving to be a much tougher experience than she had anticipated.

Once the next floor was ready she threw her kunai again. The wood creaking and the ship sounded like it was crying out as the wood began to break. Noticing the people below the debris she had hoped they would get free somehow as more of the ship was destroyed and giving way. As the floor began to snap, Claire helped her team move, seeing Yukimi and Hikari were growing exhausted from the constant chakra use. " Use me as leverage, we need to move, I expect water soon. You guys did great!" She wondered if they would need to destroy more of the ship or if this was enough to help sink it. Either way the team probably couldn't do much more as is.

The ambience of violence, death and agony surrounded the team. Then a loud cracking sound wailed, overwhelming all sounds and instilling a dreadful sensation. Only for the massive vessel to rock as water started to pour in, quickly threatening to flood the room.
"Shut it and keep moving," Nishi yelled at her pupils. Gesturing to one of the doorways that led to the fighting, Nishi waited. A few enemies entered the room and stared at what happened. Soon enough, they ran away - shouting something in a language that Nishi didn't comprehend.

Once leaving the large room, the team would find itself surrounded by more signs of violence and death. Corpses littered the ground and made running around near impossible. Groans of wounded softly pierced through the ambience, the only signs of life among the corpses as subtle movements of limbs further emphasised that not all were death yet.
"To the ship," Nishi ordered firmly, not waiting for her team. As Nishi walked towards the Republican vessel that had rammed into the massive enemy ship, there were already Republican soldiers and other shinobi that were on their way back to get back on board.

As the ship cracked under the pressure of the damage, Hikari stopped her technique and looked as water started entering the deck they stood on. When Nishi called out for her team to just keep going, Hikari just started following in the footsteps of Nishi. There were still fighting and dead all around them, but she made sure to keep her eyes on Hirashima-sensei. If the behemoth of a vessel was going down, then she couldn't afford waiting around or looking to see just how much damage they caused, nor could she afford to think about those who had been trapped. She wasn't really surprised to see what few enemies that entered the room they were in turn with their tail between their legs. She imagined most people would try and flee a sinking ship, after all.

Moving between the bodies that had been piling up on board, Hikari made sure to not lose track of Nishi in the chaos. When Nishi gave the order and proceeded to keep going, the genin walked as fast as she could to keep up with the jounin. It was no time to waiting around, and the faster they got off board, the better it was.

The Yuki stumbled slightly as the ship rocked following that deafening cracking sound, one familiar to her ears now. Yet this was definitely a lot louder than the ones they had been making on their path down to the bottom of the ship. Already, Yukimi could see some water forming. The girl focused herself for a moment, ensuring to let the air around her heat up from its previous freezing temperature, to ensure the water continued to flood the ship. She followed along quickly behind Hikari and Nishi, though Yukimi was noticeably breathing a bit heavier as sweat beaded her brow. In a way, she was thankful that the efforts had taken as much out of her as they did. It made it so she had to focus more on navigating and getting out of the ship, and less on the sheer amount of bodies around her. Yukimi ensures she kept pace with the other two, though she did throw the occasional look over her shoulder to check that the rest of the team was coming along as well.

Claire followed in suit after he team. Watching as the water began to fill the ship. She kept to the rear of the others, making sure they would get out safely. The corpses made it slightly difficult to navigate to their vessel but it didn't stop her from moving. Seeing Yukimi struggling she moved a bit quicker to catch up and assist. Throwing one of the chuunin's arms over her shoulder she smiled some. "We are getting out of this, together as a team." Helping Yukimi she made sure the two of them made it back to the ship behind their team and assisting any way she could.

Screams erupted louder than ever. The large behemoth of a vessel shook and trembled, causing people to fall and struggle to get back on their ship. Many enemies seemed confused but were forced to seek cover from the various projectiles and techniques fired as lunged by the Republican marines.
Drums sounded as the deck of the Republican warship, on which Team Nishi was onboard, shook. The painful moaning of wood cracking mixed together with metal sliding against metal. Slowly but surely did the Republican warship start to create distance with the sinking behemoth.
Looking at their surrounding, there were only Republican vessels mounting the waves. Making it clear who still ruled the deep blue.

"It is over."
 
[ Lightning Country | Ranzaki, the capital - Part 1]
[ Team 'Asami' | A collaborative post between @Autumn Song , @ChromeHound , @Feijão T. C. Speedwagon and @Aliceee ]
[ With the fighting being over, the country starts to try to rebuild itself. Various shinobi find themselves at Ranzaki. Either due to being part of one of the armed forces or being sent to commit to a task. Asami puts three genin underneath her control as she decides to put these genin to good use: doing 'totally legal' labour! ]


The camp of the unified forces of the Sanosuke, Saemund and Hojo clan was unlike most army camps. There seemed a distinct wariness to exist between the Hojo and the others. Yet, there was no violence or visible friction. Just a modicum of respect and short interactions, yet plagued by a constant worry if the other was going to betray them.
Walking through the camp, Asami had caught wind of various shinobi that had been sent to Ranzaki. Some to complete their graduation of their training while others had been sent before by the Fifth Raikage to spy and report what happened in the capital.

Much to her surprise she has managed to gather these shinobi underneath her command. Apparently, her name and past status made the shinobi be more at comfort under her command. Splitting this already small force into various teams, it would leave her with two rather inexperienced 'brats', as she put it in her mind.
Reyna, the Jinchuriki of the Three Tails, which due to her clumsiness likely would never be assumed to be a jinchuriki in the first place. And a genin that just recently graduated and couldn't be placed in the other teams.
Reaching the two small tents that were designated as the place of Reyna and the new genin, Asami weighted the two buckets she carried. Placing one down, she would first turn towards Reyna's tent. Opening the flap and using her body to keep it open, Asami would empty the bucket with one motion.

"Wake up, you are wasting daylight," Asami calmly stated as the ice-cold water would hit the sleeping jinchuriki.
Not wasting any time or breath to watch Reyna wake up from the abrupt cold and damp, Asami would repeat the same with the new genin.
"Slept enough. Here is a shower. Now get up."

Kicking both buckets away, Asami would wait for the two to get up and out of their tents.

Curled up underneath the thick blanket, Ottome didn't register that someone opened the flap - the limited amount of ray of light storming through only provoking a soft grunt. Before Ottome could turn around, a wave of cold washed over her. Shooting upwards, her eyes opened wide as only a gasp could escape her lips.
Shivering due to the sudden cold and needing to understand what just happened caused Ottome to curse softly. Aside from the particular waking up, every day seemed so far to hold surprises. And none of them were really to Ottome's liking.
Stumbling out of her tent once she had acquired her full set of gear, Ottome noticed who was awaiting her.
"Asami-sama! I-I," straightening her back, Ottome would offer a resolute salute. "I am at your service, Asami-sama!"

The nightmares had been pretty much the same since she'd joined Asami on this terror of a supposed 'training' excursion. They always started with her falling into the water, sinking despite her panicked attempts to swim to the surface. And then there was the shape… The darkness that rose from the depths below. At first Reyna had been afraid they might be one of the Huavalalampus creatures that Asami had shown her on the boat, coming to try and eat her. But each night the shape drew closer and closer and she was filled with dread as she realized the shape was hauntingly familiar. This time, as Reyna fought to hold her breath and struggled to swim away from the shape, she was able to make out another detail she had not seen before. Tails…

They rose up behind the massive creature - three of them - dancing hypnotically as they propelled the beast ever forward. Frozen in fear, Reyna's eyes widened as realization dawned on her. All she could do was open her mouth to scream. As she did however, the water rushed in and filled her lungs-

Her eyes shot open and Reyna bolted upright, coughing and sputtering. Her mind, still thinking she was in danger, sent her lightning aura into overdrive which had the unfortunate side effect of shocking her whole body as she was covered in water. Laying there on the ground, groaning, Reyna slowly came to her senses. Yet another of Asami-sensei's famous morning wake-ups, the girl thought to herself, groaning once more. As feeling her nerves began to settle, Reyna slowly got to her feet, her body still stiff from the shock. Once she had changed into something drier, Reyna pushed herself out of the tent, glaring daggers at Asami. She noticed the other girl was already up and appeared to be saluting. Reyna had not yet had much opportunity to speak with the other genin, something she hoped to change when she wasn't in such a foul mood.

Turning her attention back to Asami, her glare never faded. "Would it kill you to use your words for once?" she grumbled, still trying to shake off the tingling in her nerves.

Asami awaited for both girls to get ready. The first was the newest of their little 'pack. Honestly, Asami didn't know much about this Ottome. Only that her surname was Maekawa. Nothing else beside that she was a genin. During these times, Asami wasn't sure if that was a good or bad sign.
Twisting her head to look at Reyna, as the jinchuuriki made her 'request'. Staring at the jinchuriki, Asami slightly frowned. For a moment it seemed apparent that the woman was going to give a reply. Only to decide that Reyna wasn't worth her breath to waste upon.
"Now that you slackers are awake, we can get to work. I already sent the professionals out. Which means that I got to oversee you maggots in doing work properly. And there is plenty of work to be done," Asami started, "We are first going into a district of the capital. There has been plenty of damage that hasn't yet been dealt with. You two are going to help and thus assure the good people of Ranzaki that we aren't there to sacrifice them to devils or whatever. Seeing both of you are low ranked, inexperienced and clearly lacking respect," Asami's eyes shot towards Reyna to place emphasis on who she meant, "I am forced to watch over you two. Any questions? That don't regard complaints or why you aren't treated like a princess."

Placing her hands at her back, Ottome listened to the words of Asami. There was a slight inclination that Ottome was about to say something when Asami called her and Reyna maggots. But instead of stating that they weren't disgusting insects, Ottome reminded herself that the woman likely was more than capable to deliver more than just a nasty attitude.
Upon hearing that they were going to help in the capital city, Ottome wanted to once more protest. She had seen the damage and bodies that had littered in the streets. The vivid images were hard to push away and frankly? Ottome wasn't eager to repeat that process.
Swallowing her fear Ottome decided to speak up against Asami.
"Asami-sama, not to anger you," Ottome began, "but may I propose that we stay in the camp? Perhaps join a patrol? I am certain that the people of Ranzaki have a matter such as this covered without our aid."

Rolling her eyes as Asami mentioned they were lacking respect, Reyna folded her arms across her chest and pouted. She had helped save Asami's life when they were on the island. Ever since they had gotten back, however, it seemed like the woman's mood had only soured, and her disdain for the genin had only grown. It was frustrating as Reyna had hoped while they were on the island, that she might finally earn the woman's respect and that she'd stop treating her like a worthless brat, but… Nevertheless, it was clear that she couldn't win with Asami, not while her skills were lacking as much as they were. The one saving grace, she supposed, was that Asami at least did not treat her like some kind of monster, like many others had when they found out about the beast inside her. There was some comfort in that… Even if it meant that she was just another burden to Asami now.

When their assignment had been given, Reyna went to speak but the new girl beat her to it. Surprised at first that Ottome seemed to want to remain in camp, Reyna's eyes widened as she realized how angry this might make Asami. Biting her lower lip, she tried to think of what she could say to hopefully curb Asami's anger before it would come to a boiling point. "I… I think what Ottome might be trying to say is that we could be more useful here. You know… helping the wounded and stuff?"

Asami stared at Ottome. The request of the genin didn't change the expression of Asami. It merely seemed as if Asami was staying silent and wanting to let the genin consider how foolish their request sounded.
"I think that Ottome might be able to speak for herself," Asami said, in a sharp tone in a response as Reyna tried to speak up. "There are plenty of wounded people in the city as well."
Still, Asami's gaze was locked on Ottome while speaking to Reyna. For another second, silence seemed to set in between the three. Only to be broken up once more by the sharp tone of Asami.
"You two will go to the city. I understand that you were assigned to it before? I can understand that you may have seen some things. But it isn't enough to be pardoned from this assignment. You two have around ten minutes to get fully ready before you're going to march out."
Finishing the last sentence, Asami would resolutely turn around on and started to head off already.

Biting her lower lip, Ottome remained silent. She knew that it was a stretch to request something with just being a mere genin. When Reyna spoke up, Ottome was a bit surprised but happy that the other was willing to aid her. But that pleasant surprise was utterly destroyed when Asami replied. The sharp tone was enough to flinch Ottome, who didn't dare to look the woman straight in the eyes. Keeping her hands on her back, Ottome tried to regulate her breath. "At least, she doesn't see my hands shaking," Ottome thought to herself.
Subtly nodding that she respected Asami's orders, Ottome peeked to see if the woman was truly walking away. Once it was clear that it was just her and Reyna, Ottome sighed heavily.
"Well, that was… something." Ottome began as she turned to Reyna. A wry smile crossed Ottome's lips as she made a small bow. "Maekawa Ottome! Pleasure to meet you! I don't think we did a real good kind of, you know," straightening her back, Ottome tried to figure out how to convey what she meant. "A proper introduction and all."

Asami's sharp response was not unexpected to Reyna; she'd dealt with enough similar replies throughout her short time with the woman. Despite her often cold demeanor, however, Reyna had seen flashes of a different side of Asami... Letting out a long sigh as the woman walked away, Reyna lowered her head slightly. Add another mark of disappointment to the file… she thought to herself, before turning to face her new teammate.

The girl's enthusiasm caught her off guard at first. She seemed quite polite and… earnest. Reyna thought back to her first time meeting Kaya and how the other girl had been so… dark and broody at first. She hadn't ever really gotten the opportunity to truly become friends with her until… Chewing her lower lip, Reyna hesitated for a moment, a look of uncertainty in her eyes. Finally, she smiled back, trying to make her tone as friendly as possible, despite still feeling a deep chill in her bones from the soaking she'd received earlier. "Nice to officially meet you Ottome!" Reyna said, bowing her head slightly in return and offering her hand. "I'm Reyna, Reyna Azuma." Glancing back towards Asami as she walked away, the girl lowered her tone slightly, "If… if I can offer a word of warning, Asami-sensei is… well… it's usually best just to do what she asks, otherwise she gets grumpy. And when she gets grumpy..." Pausing for a moment, Reyna tilted her head, as if pondering something, "Well, actually she's always grumpy. But if she gets grumpier then she gets meaner, hence the friendly morning wake ups."

Stretching out a hand of her own Ottome would shake Reyna's. "Thanks," Ottome said. She felt there was some awkwardness but blamed it simply on the fact that they weren't well acquainted with each other. Not to forget that the current situation wasn't the easiest to sit down and enjoy a nice talk. A smile crossed Ottome's lips as she nodded in response. "Got it! I suppose that I got to prove my worth anyways. I am kind of new to this," Ottome wavered for a moment, searching for the correct words, "situation, you know?"
Ottome did want to ask several questions. On how long Reyna had been with Asami. How to prevent the awful waking up that they had to endure this morning and so much more. Figuring that this wasn't the place nor the time, Ottome threw a look at where Asami had vanished.
"Maybe things will get better soon." Ottome said, though unsure if it was either desperation or unsure how to drive the conversation further.
Jin felt a shiver roll down his spine and he had no idea why. Maybe it was moans of the wounded who were slowly losing their grip of life and accepting the invitation to what some would call a new life beyond the one everyone lives now. Jin saw the walls, the walls that were supposed to keep its inhabitants safe, a high hazard to those it was supposed to protect. The view was hard for him to stomach but his beady black eyes couldn't help but indulge on the scene that lay in front of him, after all, it was part of his assignment. The Saemund had felt grateful that he was not on the frontlines, he was even more grateful that none of his family had ventured to Ranzaki in this unfortunate time.
"Best I report back." He said, quietly struggling to face the direction of where he was going, as his gluttonous eyes needed seconds.

Just as Jin wanted to report back, a voice pierced through the ambience of the camp. "You Jin? Follow me, you are assigned to a task," Asami said with a sharp tone, passing the genin by with a slight annoyed expression visible over her features. It didn't take long before she was also able to see Ottome and Reyna.
"When you two are done with your little teacup party, we can get started. Come on, get to moving." Asami shouted.
The reason for her annoyance wasn't so much for the assignment or the fact she was needing to babysit three lower ranks. It came from the fact that there were certain developments happening. And while everything seemed to go swimmingly for the battle against the Regency remaining forces, Asami felt irritated that she couldn't be present with the more important matters.

Once the genin had gathered up, Asami gestured them to follow her.
"Don't go stray. Most people might be happy that we are helping, there are plenty who rather have us gone far away. So don't help those who refuse your help," Asami stated, throwing a look over her shoulder at the genin. "And I tolerate no belly-aching. From no one."

Taking the genin through the main gate, Asami would lead them to a neighbourhood that was close to the second ring of fortifications in the city. There where the fighting had wreaked significantly more damage - as if the combatants had decided that they had to flip the rules of a siege around, sparing much of the neighbourhoods around the outer fortifications.
People were carrying rubble away and the atmosphere seemed to be heavy, representing that these people had lost more than some material and wealth.
"Here we are," Asami said, her tone not changing despite the fact on what the genin were confronted with. The dreadful aftermath of war was still so fresh that various bodies were still taking up a spot on the street - for now laid aside, so that they weren't in the way.
"I am going to take up a spot to act as sentry. You three? Go and get those hands dirty." The woman said, literally vanishing in a puff of smoke right afterwards.

Ottome had flinched when Asami had called her and Reyna out. The genin quickly readied herself and scurried over to Asami. There were some questions that ran through Ottome's mind. But she opted to keep those to herself. It was perhaps for the best to follow Asami's commands. After all, she was a higher rank. Had more experience and knew what she was doing. So following orders wouldn't hurt, Ottome thought to herself.
As the group entered the city, Ottome felt beads of cold sweat on her back. Focusing on keeping a facade up, she tried to ban the memories of what had happened that fateful night. It didn't help to keep reminding herself that the fighting had stopped. After all, emotions could run high and people were on the edge, most likely.

Arriving on the scene, Ottome's heart sank. The scenery in front of her was expected. Yet that did nothing to reduce the impact of what she witnessed. A hand shot to her mouth, as if she had to suppress a scream from escaping her.
When Asami stated that she would take a sentry spot, confusion dawned in.
"Wait, Asa--" before Ottome could even finish her sentence, the woman poofed away. Blinking rapidly, Ottome looked back at the scenery. Chewing on her lower lip, she felt her body working against her. Her instincts were screaming that she had to run. That she wasn't welcome and never would be.

"Here goes nothing," Ottome managed to cramp out of her mouth before she would walk towards a woman. Without saying anything, Ottome would try to lift the heavy stone and roll it out of the way. Only to help pull some wood out with the woman before she received a soft thanks.
Nodding, Ottome continued with the task of trying to get the rubble and carry it to a heap where others dumped debris as well.

Before Reyna had a chance to respond to Ottome, Asami had returned, this time bringing yet another new person. Rolling her eyes and sighing, Reyna followed the group further into the city, her snarky attitude being replaced by a sense of dread and revulsion as the chaos became more and more clear. Her mind flashed back to the wounded soldiers she had encountered and tried to assist after the messy battle in the East. She had been glad her family was not there to see how she had reacted to the situation. Coming from a line of medical shinobi, she was supposed to be able to hold her own in that kind of situation. Instead, she had panicked, unable to handle the task…

Now, it seemed, fate was forcing her back in.

Walking slowly behind Ottome, Reyna's eyes scanned the scene around her. She could feel a bead of sweat gathering on her brow as her nerves crept back up. Trying to push through this time, Reyna clenched her fists, a few sparks arcing out around her hands. Making her way past Ottome as the older girl assisted another woman with moving some of the rubble, Reyna tried to find another area that she could help clear some of the debris from. Spotting an area where there appeared to be a bunch of broken wood and stones, Reyna bent over and picked up a mid-sized stone. Trying to see where she could place it, the girl heard a gruff voice behind her. "Hey! What are you doing with that? I just moved those stones over there!" Panicked, Reyna turned and tried to identify who had shouted at her, backing up as she did so. She spotted the man, a very dirty, very angry looking man, and opened her mouth to reply. "I… I thought this wa-"

"You thought what?! That you'd just step in here and ruin all my work?"

"No! I swear I j-just," stammering, Reyna took an involuntary step backwards, realizing too late that she'd made a mistake. Her foot came down on something soft and slippery and Reyna's eyes widened as panic shot through her and she began to stumble off-balance.

"Hey, watch ou-" the man called out, too late.

Reyna pinwheeled backwards, letting go of the stone as she tried to catch herself. The stone crashed down beside her as she fell, landing with a sickening squelching noise. Reyna fell flat on her bum, landing on something that clearly wasn't the ground. Her hands stretched out behind her, trying to stabilize her. Reyna's breath caught in her throat as she felt her hands grab hold of something soft and wet and… sticky. Not daring to turn around, she quickly pulled her hands back. A chill crept up her spine as she slowly brought her hands into view, dreading what she'd see. The sight of the dark crimson blood caused Reyna to tremble in horror and she let out a terrified squeal. Lurching forwards to propel herself off of the body she'd landed on, Reyna landed on her knees hard, feeling her stomach twist and knot. The squeal was cut off as she gagged and brought a hand up to her mouth involuntarily, trying to stop herself from vomiting. The putrid stench of decay hit her nostrils in a wave however, as she realized, too late, that her hand was still covered in blood. The whole situation was too much to handle and Reyna retched, violently puking all over the ground in front of her.

Picking up the rubble Jin would quickly put it back where he found it. His eyes were wide in shock as his heart raced. The boy would take a deep breath, closing his eyes, and though he inhaled deeply and exhaled slowly, he couldn't erase the image of the infant's feet, lifeless and paled sickly. Jin couldn't help but shake his head, "So much death, how do they stomach so much death, and still carry on.". His time in thought would be cut short, as he heard Reyna vomit, this made him think back to when Otamme had put her hand to her mouth. "We are fresh, just Genin, this sight is too much for a Genin," he thought. He would find another spot, far away from the deceased Infant, and begin moving the rubble trying his hardest to drown out the moans.
 
[ Republic of Water | Kirigakure ]
[ Yumi Hasewaga | Imperial Akinian, Scholae ]​

"Did you hear?"
"No, what happened?"
"He died fighting in the east."
"A swordsman's true faith. How sad and yet noble."

She listened to the conversations. Not that anybody would pay her any mind as she went across the broad market. There were exciting rumours, tids and bits coming from the eastern continent. Most of it wasn't much of help for her goals, but it was interesting that a Swordsman was dead.
Did that mean that a new gap was open for someone to try to gain the dead man's spot? Yumi wasn't that aware of how the Seven Swordsmen worked. Hell, were there even indeed seven?
With Sameheda lost, what was there to replace the Sharkskin?
Yumi had heard that the Swordsmen had a leader, but she couldn't collect too much information about him. Takeshi Shun was his name, but he didn't originate to any noble clan or prominent family. And judging by the fact that mister Shun had decided to make an appearance as an effort to stabilize the quarantine zone? Yumi had decided to lay low.
She was confident enough not to be intimidated by mister Shun and what she could uncover. But the Akinian operative was far from ignorant to think she could take Shun on without any preparation.
Besides, she mused to herself, that was beside the point. None of her objectives had to do with taking Takeshi Shun out. That would be too risky regarding the whole operation.

Walking further down the street, Yumi considered her options. It was clear that the current regime was aware that something was going on. And so far, they were playing smart. Their Intelligence Division, the Shiranui, was trying to track her. Their forces at the ready, searching and preparing.
And it would be sooner than later that they would figure out some of her patterns, Yumi reckoned. And for all that she had learned, the current regime was hiding some of their cards. Notably, their jinchuuriki.


Looking at the map, she was wondering about the possibility for a moment. It was undoubtedly likely that the jinchuuriki weren't in the city anymore. Who would keep two jinchuuriki that couldn't control their beasts in a city ripe with strife? That was asking for more trouble.
With the current dictator of the republic affiliated to the Mizuno clan, Yumi wondered if she should continue her search there. Yet, she reckoned that her quarry was stashed away somewhere obscure.
Yet, that bit of guessing didn't help her anywhere. What was obscure? Which of the dozens of known islands? Or the many more small islands that were sometimes not even documented by cartographers?

"So I am bound to hunt two immature jinchuuriki, across an archipelago nation, without any of my sources knowing where they could be. The Shiranui and Hunter-Nin are tracking me down. Huh," frowning Yumi tilted her head slightly, "not the worst, so far."

Starting to sink into thoughts, Yumi had an idea. Perhaps she could kill two birds with one stone?
Leaning forward, she placed her hands at the edge of the table. If she wasn't mistaken, then not all Swordsmen were deployed on the eastern continent. If she wasn't wrong, then there were a total of six Swordsmen still alive. Scrapping Takeshi Shun and that meant five.
"Atsuko Uragiri, Ebinuma Yoshitake, Himura Akeno, Iseri Sadanobu and Shiraishi Taji," Yumi summed up in her mind. She had some knowledge of the various blades but not anything optimal.
"If anything, I want to avoid the lightning one. Sharpest blades in existence? Likely just a story. Still, not eager to try that out myself," she reasoned, thus scrapping Himura Akeno mentally off her list.
"Shiraishi Taji, wielding the Needle. Able to pierce everything? Huh, is everything just exaggerated about these swordsmen or what? Let's scrap that one either. Which means, there are only three targets left..."
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top Bottom
Back