The journey to the camp of the Jirian army had gone without any hiccups. The previous mission had led to some interesting developments. But nothing that required Nishi's aid or opinion. Something that she didn't desire to see changing as it meant just more responsibilities and work for her.
What had caught her by some surprise was the presence of a force, of Northerners that established their encampment close to that of the Jirians. It was clear that the two 'allies' were willing to work together but that there was some mutual distrust. Not very surprising, Nishi mused as she sat on a crate. The psychological wounds inflicted by the Great War were still festering, making it hard for a true friendship to exist between the Northerners and Jirians.
Then again, Nishi couldn't be bothered about it. Right now, she felt a faint but familiar desire surfacing - easily pushing her previous thoughts to the back of her mind. Sighing softly, Nishi knew what she wanted. But how long had it been since she had acquired any alcohol? The silly bet with Alsanna had its impacts, even if the jounin despised admitting it even mentally.
Crossing her arms out in front of her chest Nishi glanced around as other Jirian troops went about their business.
"Now where is that troublemaker," Nishi mumbled, wondering if she should perhaps seek out her pupil.
Acclimating to the change of scenery in the main camp after that previous expedition, it seemed Alsanna had quite a few things going. From her recent stunt to more conspicuous mailing going on, there was little time for idle hands. And even when it seemed she caught a break, it was time for some impromptu triage in the medical ward now that reputations were far less dictating when staffing was a bigger issue. It made for minor yet novel experiences, but was ultimately just clockwork.
It'd be when fresh air was the most needed after staying cooped up in old buildings or tents that she was the most noticeable. Never was her presence kept discreet when she found a place to roost, and the most recent being atop one of the desolate but still standing towers of the fortress, crimson owl on her lap and her ungloved hands so busy plucking some older feathers while she hummed a
pleasant little tune as a form of warning for those nearby.
Deciding to seek out Alsanna, it wasn't that difficult to figure out where the 'Witch of Sevudia' was located. A few directions were all that she required as Alsanna's rather peculiar reputation made it far from a challenge to learn where she was.
Once Nishi had managed to reach the place where Alsanna was grooming an owl, Nishi's pace became even slower than the casual pace she had gone with before.
"Someone is in a good mood," the woman began, a frown almost forming on Nishi's brow that would radiate a certain wariness.
"I suppose I don't even need to gift you something now," Nishi further said as she seemed to consider something. Closing the distance with her pupil, Nishi nodded as if the gesture was enough to warrant the following action.
Nishi's right hand went to one of her pouches to reveal a scroll. The red wax wasn't intact anymore, a clear sign that someone had already broken the seal and read the scroll's content.
"I broke it. But you still need to read it," Nishi calmly stated as if this wasn't some kind of breach of privacy, offering the item to her pupil,
"I also have something else but that can wait afterwards, I suppose." Nishi would say, waiting for Alsanna to read the scroll and its contents before moving on.
A more powerful voice broke the gentle hum that echoed through the area. It was enough to prompt the tune's progenitor to spin her head opposite to the sound's direction only to have her cheek land on her shoulder, allowing for her half-lidded gaze to capture Nishi's frame. A very casual Alsanna continued to treat her avian summon while taking in her teacher's input, "
The view makes it pleasant." she answered, directing her visage to the outside of the fortress, which gave way to quite the greenery and well-defined horizon with few mountains to obstruct, "
Hmm?" she extended her hand out at the prospect of a potential gift or whatever Nishi implied, palm flat and eyes a bit more open.
It was a scroll, one that had been unsealed it seemed. Cocking an eyebrow, the young medic actually
whipped the scroll to open in one motion, only for her grooming hand to catch the end the moment there'd be a tug, preventing any damage. She had done this before, it seemed. A fast reading was performed, the grooming hand now rising up and poking a couple of acquired feathers in between her hair's bun and her head before resuming her humming until she had read through it a couple more times, "
Huh. Cool." the rolling of the scroll was more methodical and slow, "
Recommendations too, huh? Wowzers." a light amount of sarcasm veiling a hint of joy and perhaps some satisfaction, "
Guess I'm no longer the baby Genin, then, huh? Or is this like some way to average out the team so it feels more even? I can see myself going for that. Some symmetry." holding the scroll with hand, she tapped it over the other, "
So … What does this entail? If this is a promotion that involves more labour for little reward, I may as well cheat the system a bit longer." when bringing up the more slimy aspects of her position, she made sure to point the end of the scroll toward Nishi. All with a grin.
"
And what's the other surprise? My very own badge of authority? Gods, that'd be swell. Chuunin Inspector Alsanna, I'll be taking aaaaallll that interesting stuff, thank you very much." she rambled one, quite the positive creature she was today.
Expecting already how Alsanna would respond, Nishi remained oddily enough quiet - not replying in sarcasm or frustration back at how the girl responded to the news of being promoted. The features of Nishi even seemed rather calm, lacking the usual frown or any hints of annoyance or cold glares that seemed so natural to her being.
"You are basically now a chuunin, yes. Still a brat, of course. But that is something I can't erase with a recommendation." A light shrug of her shoulders followed,
"but no. I wouldn't promote you on such a silly basis. Despite your flaws, I genuinely think you deserve this. Or well, I suppose I do until you keep running that mouth of yours."
Shaking her head lightly, Nishi's right hand seemed to briefly move to another pouch. But she then seemed to freeze, her eyes briefly narrowing. The mere subtle signs betraying a wariness that wasn't unlike any fits of wariness she had shown before.
"It is something small. Just some sort of tradition, I guess," Nishi started to explain, her hand once more moving to the respective pouch. Producing a red linen cloth, Nishi held it up towards Alsanna. A black symbol of a komainu with various odd symbols was presented in the middle of the cloth.
"Perhaps not as amazing as a new weapon but seeing you are no longer a genin, I suppose this would be appreciated or something."
Alsanna nodded at the justification given by Nishi, which led her to orient her gaze to the horizon one last time before gesturing for the bird to take off. Said avian had been acting as if nothing was really going on, almost like it was dormant. When she choo'd it, it actually poofed into a little coin she'd pocket. She now stood, starting first with a brief stretch-to-yawn ritual before turning her straightened frame toward the Hirashima, "
Funny how a few words with an inclination in tone can get to so many people so easily." the scroll itself was carefully slid into her little messenger back that was made more visible now that she stood, "
Although I suppose I can't call out this experience as … Devoid of recognition. At least someone's paying attention." eye contact was avoided, although the avoidance itself was veiled behind her insertion of the item into her bag.
Now came the second item, which did prompt the now-Chuunin to set one hand on her hip and the other to tap her chin, almost exaggerating the pose of an art-admirer, "
Y'know, I could make a joke. But the craftsmanship and quality can't go unnoticed to someone like me," her chin-tapping hand first extended to brush her nerve endings against the fabric, "
Care to enlighten me on the tradition? I'm afraid I joined the fray less for the honour and for errr ..." the second hand extended itself as to seize the edges of the cloth, which she'd then fold and graciously accept, "
Unimportant reasons, or rather those you'd expect of me. No real intention of dying for country 'n' all that junk." lips pursed, her gaze frozen to nothing for a moment before she peered up at Nishi.
Nishi's gaze remained fixated on the red cloth before breaking, her gaze shifting towards her pupil. The transformation of the girl's owl in a coin did once more remind Nishi that she hadn't learned that much about Alsanna's curious summoning or companion. While in the middle of making a mental note, Nishi had to focus as Alsanna spoke up.
"The tradition? Hm, it is a bit hard to explain. Just see it as a sort of act of me acknowledging that you're worthy of this new rank. In a way, at least." Nishi replied, to the first question. After a short pause, she decided to elaborate a bit more.
"A sort of rite of age thing. Nothing really special to delve further in," she would say, as a response to the chuunin's question.
The statement that Alsanna wasn't intending to die for their country or providing any other patriotic heroism for the Authority made Nishi frown. The woman would suck on the inside of her cheek, visibly pondering on something. Only to come to a certain decision.
"Good. I won't demand that from you." Nishi said, despite it being unfit for her rank and occupation to do so,
"Dying for a bit of dirt is weird. And bleeding or suffering for some old fart who came to power with murdering other old farts isn't something I am intending either."
Pausing, Nishi would look around to any suitable place to sit down. Only to come to the conclusion she was fine with standing as well.
"Anyhow, congratulations on your promotion. Sadly, I couldn't manage to arrange any cake or other sweets. I suppose that has to wait for another time." A light hint of sarcasm finally returning to Nishi's tone.
"
Ah. Right." a couple of nods toward Nishi's explanation of the ritual they had just performed. The quality cloth, once fully folded, was set in her bag at the same spot she had put away the scroll. Although now that she was standing, the main event Nishi had supposedly planned for was finished, the graduate would turn to face the horizon once more, and with no hesitation, hopped over the stone cover before her and sat over it, legs hanging over the long of the wall below her. Not that it'd be a dangerous fall for a shinobi, but it was still intimidating to some, "
He's not that old. Actually, I was surprised to see how young he looked in the papers when I was in Os'. Loads of tarts gushed over him." a little bit of tapping of her heels against the stone could be heard, "
Unless you mean the General … Which seems about as old as you, no?" squinting at nothing, she'd eventually peer over at Nishi for confirmation, "
Also, magma? I thought those sorts of abilities were rare and monopolized." that comment was followed by her eyebrows raising for she had left herself quite perplexed.
She didn't ruffle her bag any further, instead reaching into her warm coat's pockets, only to whip out a couple of wrapped up 'cigar' pastries. Nothing too special, a form of thin bred mixed with a lot of sugar that could be easily be made alone with a few ingredients, even found in their rations, "
Got something close enough to those." one of the cigars was waved toward the Jonin, "
So you won't die for the not-old Fart. Then what are you doing here? Doesn't sound like a great longevity prospect."
Watching Alsanna sitting on the cover, Nishi already turned half around as she debated to head off and give her pupil some time. But the voice of Alsanna prevented Nishi from leaving, the latter pondering shortly on her options.
"Hm, perhaps he doesn't seem old. But so far I have yet to really meet him in person. Not that I desire that even," Nishi said as she would turn towards Alsanna. In fact, even deciding to join her student. Taking a spot to the chuunin's right, Nishi stared at the horizon for a moment, her hands placed on the stone as her legs bungled.
"And hm? Magma? Ah, General Yuuki," Nishi seemed absent minded for a mere moment before she provided an answer, of some sorts.
"In most cases, yes. Clans and that stuff. Or else you can expect various organisations being keen on getting their hand on any competent individual with a rare ability or bloodline stuff. Nothing I should ponder too much about, if I were you. You may find yourself being pulled between the regular military and one of the specialist organisations if you get some more attention to yourself."
Glancing sideways as she noticed Alsanna offering something, Nishi gently accepted the presented cigar. After a quick look, the pastry didn't seem that bad. Certainly not compared to the rather bland rations that they had to 'enjoy'.
"Close enough, yeah." Nishi said, the phrasing seeming sarcastic but the tone was actually genuinely polite.
"Thanks."
Not yet taking a bite, Nishi's gaze moved back at the horizon as she seemed to mull over the last question.
"Perhaps because I have yet to try out another vocation? Also the possibility that I know too much and can become a risk. I won't be the first that is going to disappear after resigning from the military. That and I don't know. Perhaps in an odd way, I enjoy it? Some aspects, at least."
"
Specialist organizations?" she asked before taking her own first, crunchy bite from her cigario roll without a care for manners, "
Sounds fancy. And yet also horribly bureaucratic." with her lamenting came a second bite from her treat, "
So, with all that reluctance toward Big Jirou Daddy, what did you actually do during the revolt? High profile like you … Tsk tsk, your absence can be impactful too, I'd reckon." a grin formed on her face as she pried for an answer, "
I myself have the excuse of being nice and locked up, even if it happened during the time itself. But I was what? Too busy doing illegal bad bads? What's your excuse?" head tilted, she leaned in a little more.
Although she then pulled back, pupils directed upwards with the bitten end of the cigar tapping against her chin, "
Y'know I'm truly wondering what you could be concerned about. It feels like people should be scared of you, and would leave you alone. What could be so strong in our disorganized, little island?"
"Ah, yes. You probably weren't taught that much about them. I forgot that the Academy started to slack horribly. Or well, being in prison doesn't warrant you to learn much about the likes of the Shiranui. The Intelligence Division and such, you know." Nishi replied before taking a near-cautious bite of the pastry.
Chewing on the bite, she listened to Alsanna. Knowing that the girl was attempting to pry something loose, Nishi just took another bite and peacefully chewed on the newest bite. Almost anagozing slow did Nishi empty her mouth before providing a response to her pupil's question.
"Excuse? You think I need an excuse?" The rhetoric questions being combined with Nishi throwing a frowned look at her pupil.
"I will just leave it up to your imagination. Knowing from experience, I can already tell you can conjure a colourful tale of what I could be doing during the revolt." Nishi decided to give as an answer.
The second question seemed to take a bit longer for the woman to actually provide a reply towards. Taking a small bite again, Nishi averted her gaze to stare once more at the horizon. The answer was simple yet far from it - the confusing duality of it being also not something Nishi didn't want to answer.
"Who knows. It is of no import to you." Nishi said.
"Besides, I will let you know if you are going to get another jounin to drive me to insanity. Divine already knows that you pissed one or even two jounin already. I already pity whoever may follow me if I need to be replaced."
Munch, munch, munch, her cigar was getting quite small as she nibbled away during the time she dedicated to listening, "
Shiranui. Huh. That's what they're called." Alsanna then peered toward the horizon, and she too had a moment of silence, as if she was thinking of something, "
Are they one of those things you don't wanna provoke by fear of, ahem, 'disappearing'? Sounds like what a self-righteous intelligence group would do. Black bag the best assets. Bureaucracy, I tell ya'." the last bit of the delight was taken in and swallowed. And then a couple of mint-leaves she'd chew on afterwards.
"
Hey, I've got a great idea. How about … You stop feeding me boring, half-replies and tell me something cool when we have these kind-of okay-ish moments, yes? It's almost like I'm taking the time off very cool and stimulating things just for-" she poked the other's shoulder, "
Unless you want to make this a 'I give you X for Y', which has worked well, given ..." she sniffed at Nishi right after ending her poking, "
Mmmm, the lack of odour is the discreet smell of success~ And I'll piss ten more Jounin if it means I get these sweet, sweet results."
Nishi subtly nodded as a silent answer for the first question of Alsanna. There was more to the Shiranui, but that was beside the point of their current exchange. Not to mention, Nishi did share a similar opinion as she considered 'self-righteous' to be quite accurate to describe the Shiranui or any other Intelligence Division she was aware of.
"Hm, and here I thought you enjoyed a bit of mystery." Nishi replied before she took a bite from her cigar pastry once more. Again, Nishi made no attempt to provide a quick reply or addition to her previous words, calmly chewing her bite. After a few seconds she emptied her mouth, allowing her to respond properly.
"Besides, what do you have to offer? It seems you just want to learn the super, shady and secret stuff I have been involved in. For what?" Raising the small remainder of her pastry, Nishi scoffed in an amused fashion.
"Sweets? You got to do way better than that. Certainly now I can bring up that you're no longer a genin. You need to put in more effort from now on." Nishi stated before finishing the last bit of her pastry.
"
I do." she was quick to reply, nodding away before continuing, "
Cracking a mystery is great. When it's on a field I like. Dealing with people ..." she narrowed her gaze to some random trees near the fort, "
Eh, I can do it, I just take little pleasure from it. That and I will say," a few mint leaves were then presented to Nishi, "
I don't consider knowing more essential elements about my associates as a game, despite my disposition." the dryness of her voice made the seriousness of her position clear.
Although when presented with a form of challenge, she chuckled, "
Albeit, I do grasp that the commercial, almost transactional nature of what we have going does have its benefit." with a smirk, her figure seemed to perk up as she'd turn her upper-frame to the older female, "
Alright, sure, I'll bite. Answer me, and I'll tell you what I did to end up in the can. Officially," head tilted to the left with a wide smile on her face, "
and unofficially."
Accepting the mint leaves that Alsanna offered Nishi would take one and chew on it, as her pupil spoke. A soft 'mhm' was just the indication that Nishi did pay attention to what Alsanna told her, while the woman's gaze was once more averted.
A silence echoed for a few seconds after Alsanna's suggestion before Nishi spoke on her turn.
"You are aware that I can't tell you everything? Seeing that some stuff is classified? And you clearly don't possess the right rank or permission to even ask me that kind of stuff?" Nishi asked, though already suspecting what the girl would give as an answer. A soft sigh escaped Nishi as she tried to consider what to say to sate the curiosity of her student.
"During the revolt? I was working for the Mizukage. Doing some work that was and still isn't for the faint of heart. You could consider me as someone that would knock on your door if you were suspected of aiding the revolt. That sort of thing." Nishi explained, leaving out the true details and nuances that would likely intrigue her student.
"Beside that? I don't think I can honestly tell you more without breaching various super agent protocols."
Lips pushed sideways until they were almost distorting her facial expression, showing considerable degrees of a perplexed reaction, "
Classified? Really? Are we going to be all agentic over a system ran by a guy you aren't even a fan of?" her arms crossed, Alsanna seemed partially amused despite her reaction, "
So you were like, part of the historical loser side. How did you feel about it, then? The revolt, the outcome, your position in all of it?" she downright turned to straddle the piece of stone wall they were both sitting on.
That curious grin turned into a toothy one, "
Wait, so it's kind of like a twist of irony. You were the one people were afraid of if they did a big wrong, and now you're afraid of another Nishi Hirashima knocking at your door, yeah? What a spiral." biting her lower lip as if to stifle her excitement over this interaction, it took her a little to continue, "
Though I suppose it's not all that hard to create better and better weapons, huh? Always someone better. At least, until you have me, of course~ Better becomes inevitable."
Nishi just nodded as a response, not further confirming if Alsanna's theories were correct or not. When Alsanna mentioned a new theory, that Nishi was terrified of someone else knocking on her door the motions of the jounin briefly froze. The eyes of Nishi half-closed as she threw a rather cold glance at her student. A near opposite to the attitude of Alsanna.
"Sure. Let us assume that is the case." Nishi would say in return before pointing back at the girl with an index finger.
"So there you go. My answer. Now it is your turn to cough up why you were locked up. Although I already have some theories on why you were searched and then put behind bars."
Body language was not something Alsanna was oblivious to, as shown with her azure eyes constantly darting between various features presented by Nishi. That and, well, she did have a decent view of Nishi's internals each time her swinging foot would 'accidentally' hit the jounin's ankle. The jolt she'd feel was almost non-existent, given Alsanna had already mapped out the other's being, but it still wasn't nothing, "
Ah yeah, my turn. And you've got theories too!" she chuckled with that same toothy grin from before, "
Alright, let's make this a bit more fun, then. I said I didn't like games all that much either, and while true, I do like to make things fun! Which means I'll always hold my end of the bargain, but let's at least make it pleasant."
Alsanna cleared her throat, before pursuing her side of the deal, "
I'll first say, officially? For theft and some degree of vigilantism, although the latter didn't hold up. Ironically I actually wasn't really a vigilante or anything of the sort, the look I chose just gave off that impression. Buuuuuut, I did steal more than a few things so I could do my unofficial pile of sin~" her index was raised up and then brought to tap Nishi's nose if she allowed it, "
Now, what do you think lil' me did to end up with post-revolution authorities caring about a few chemicals and tools missing when they had so many fish to fry?"
The mood of Nishi didn't seem to improve by any significant margin but no grumbling or cynical comment left her lips either. A minor improvement, one could say. Listening to Alsanna, Nishi would ignore the fact that her student kept hitting her ankle. She had a good hunch on what the girl was doing but was confident that her thoughts and memories couldn't be pried loose like that. Else, it would have been an entirely different conversation already.
"Theft? Huh," Nishi's eyes narrowed as Alsanna raised her index to tap her nose. Moving her head away as a subtle sign that she didn't like the motion, together with a hand to wave away the attempt, Nishi spoke further.
"One theory is that you were too much of a bother to the wardens keeping you behind bars. If you already can work on my nerves, I truly am sorry for the men and women who had to keep you from being a menace from society." Turning a bit more serious and less moody, Nishi glanced at the camp down from where they sat.
"Probably messing around with stuff most people wouldn't even consider messing with. The mere fact you are so keen on learning and improving your skill in certain fields says more than enough. It is a whole new question why you haven't been snatched by some other organisations. But I suppose you have been lucky to avoid such a fate."
Nod, nod, nod, "
Yeah, yeah, act as if I'm THAT bad. Nishi, some slags are like Hikari but also arrogant. Wouldn't that just be the worst? Boastful but so … Average?" she cleared her throat after saying that, "
Not to shit talk her too much, at least she isn't obsessed over a fuckin' sword." another, far more exaggerated cough this time, "
Noooot to shit talk Yuyuko either, but she did agree to some bizarre experiment of mine with little resistance sooooo ..." shifting her head left and right with the most restrained of grins on her face made her amusement very much obvious.
"
Alright, so, no. But also yes. I did things I shouldn't. No shit. Why do you think the authorities gave a shit? Although! To help you make a better, non-shit theory, I'll give you a hint." her hand rose up in the air, striking a rather silly pose, "
I was once knoooown as … The Shinsestuna Ishi! Or, like, the Good Doctor. I guess. That's what the locals called me. And I looked SO. COOL! And hey loved me." both thumbs were made to point at her own direction, "
I would assume said organisations were busy clearing the mess caused by yet ANOTHER revolution in our babu-Island. But maybe now they've got a more steady foot? Maybe I should be worried, if ever solicited?"
"Ah, yes. The intriguing dynamics of my dear pupils. I forgot that was a thing I need to be bothered with." Nishi said, her tone betraying her boredom of such a topic.
"I sadly can't care much for the squabbles and what not that exists between you three. I don't even desire to know what is up with the obsession of some sword or whatnot. It already sounds like it will do nothing but make me search for the bottle, again."
Pushing any potential worries and thoughts that attempted to surface in her mind, Nishi stared at Alsanna striking a silly pose. Only for a crack to appear in the woman's features, her lips slightly curling upwards - if only for a precious second before it seemed to turn neutral again.
"Possibly. I am out of those games. I could try to delve into what they are up to. But that isn't rewarding for me." Nishi, semi-thought about it before deciding to size up Alsanna.
"Jokes aside, you got a brain. Some competence even. Sure, also what some would consider arrogance. But nothing too misplaced, I think."
An uncomfortable silence followed as Nishi didn't immediately finish her answer.
"You should be." Nishi's voice betraying that she was serious.
"But I suppose I won't let it come to that. Or try to."
Alsanna wagged her index, "
I think you should care, actually. And without the sodding bottle." the pose relented, though energy still oozed from her natural aura, "
Your goal, after all, is to uplift us. Can't do that if you don't understand our dynamics. Or our quirks. But I can't blame ya' for, y'know, favouring yours truly~" an exaggerated shrug followed that outrageous claim. Her moment of fun ego-jerking made her miss the effect she had on her audience.
"
So, if they ever knock at my door, you'd suddenly be able to face 'em? Huh. And now this is where I call you my hero for a third time?" snapping her fingers, she derived from the subject for a moment, "
Although now I realize I hadn't actually given you something." from the side pocket of her bag she'd take out one of her feather-knives, only to passe it to Nishi, "
Got my chakra on it. Shouldn't ever fade so long as the pattern stays, or at least the traces won't. I feel like it's something a sealing Jounin like you should have, no?" the quite personal item was left for Nishi to take before she resumed her more energetic subject, "
So, anyway. Let's just say I didn't practice on pigs when I got good at surgery. And no, I didn't vivisect random folks. And no, I never got a medical license. But!" that same waving index kept being her main tool to convey her feelings, "
Surprisingly, I was still under the snouts of the authorities, until my practices lured some, errrr, undesirables. Like, immigrant-undesirables."
"My goal is to uplift you all," Nishi repeated as she couldn't resist a chuckle.
"Okay. Let's see. I got two senior chuunin that have so far not specialised in any kind of field. Nor have they provided enough to warrant my care. It is true, I am supposed to mentor you all. But there is a limit to that." Nishi already raised an index finger to gesture she wasn't done or else to gesture to Alsanna to be patient and hear her out.
"Once you are a chuunin, there is some expectation that you're capable to push yourself. I am not going to hand-hold you or them forever. If you can't provide some drive, why is it then fair to demand my time or effort? I won't be around always to just guide you or the team. At one point something can happen. Or I decide I have enough and well, I don't know. Retiring sounds appealing at times."
Nishi's nose bridge wrinkled as she considered if she would come to 'save' Alsanna if some of the specialised organisations would come for her. The desire to say no and make a cynical remark was tempting but something held her back. And that mere fact was more annoying than anything that had happened to her today.
"Unexpected," the word left Nishi's lips as she carefully took the presented feather knife. Inspecting the weapon, Nishi weighed it before pocketing it away. Her lips parted, indicating she wanted to say something. Only for her lips to close and prevent any thought to become a voiced reality.
"So you tested on the downtrodden and ill-fated?" Nishi asked, clearly not impressed but neither offended in any case,
"Huh, I thought you were a vigilante? How ironic. What made you decide to even commit to such practices? Most people just tend to, you know, attempt a more legal vocation."
"
Oh senior my arse. Hikari was promoted not THAT long ago, and I swear Yuyuko probably doesn't have the know-how to be senior either." brushing off the remark, Alsanna shook her head, "
Not about you holding hands. It's about you being a leader. Which you're not. You're keeping yourself back, and while you are way, wayyyyy overqualified for Jounin teacher, you're not a leader. It's like a chemistry genius teaching academy students." from a sardonic tune to a far dryer and crips tone, the message she conveyed was far more weight than most of what she had said thus far, "
We're also in a warzone. May wanna to be sure the other two don't end in one of those nameless graves." crossing her arms, her head turned to the bright horizon.
"
I wouldn't call poor, pregnant ladies downtrodden so much as they're kind of in a shit spot. Although I did have a couple of encounters with the terminals." with mention of the latter, she'd raise her right hand and fixate her two longest digits in particular, "
Some died far too quickly despite my efforts. Usually from blood loss. But I wanted to know what killed them, what made them react in certain ways, how they could be treated if I had been brought in earlier. So ..." the tips of her fingers started to emits light sparks, "
Through trial and error, I made death only a, hmm, half-limiter. After all, even when dead, quite a few things can still work in the body if given the right amount of attention." her fingers retreated and balled in a fist, "
My goals were selfish, I won't pretend I'm a philanthropist. I'm not. But I was revered for a reason. The fruit of my works brought something to more than a few. Not that I brought me much beyond knowledge, to be honest."
"Hm," Nishi didn't respond immediately as she kept looking at the distance.
"I am too overqualified for a jounin teacher," she calmly repeated Alsanna's words. Slowly, Nishi turned towards her pupil.
"What exactly makes you think or believe that? You aren't someone who has seen what I have seen or even Kakuro. Remember that guy? Almost sliced you in half," Nishi's eyebrows slightly perked up,
"correct me if I am wrong, but are you wanting me to be someone better? For what? I have flaws. Plenty. Yet, every time you have been," her gaze averted as her eyes narrowed, seeking the right words to convey her thoughts properly. Her lips formed a faint smile without any sensible joy with it.
"You have been describing me as great. Better. Needing to be feared. You even put up a whole mission of being someone different. Just for what? And," a frown would form on her brow as her tone indicated that she was being serious,
"let us drop the banter for now. I am serious. What do you want?"
Alsanna snapped her fingers, "
Good question. Well, questions. But mostly the why and what." hopping off her straddling position, continuing to speak as she brushed her thighs and rear, "
To start with the why. Well, it's simple. Like an art connoisseur, I recognize greatness and talent! In people, anyway. It does stem from my vocation, after all. To assess one's potential and limits." as she said that, the medic made her scrutiny obvious with thorough checking out of the Jounin, "
Saved my ass, like, twice too. So, I know that by improving you to the extent that I can will only be of benefit to me. Although, if you want me to drop the cynicism," she tapped her cheek with her index as the rest of her digits cupped her own chin, "
I suppose I just kind of like you. And I do believe friends do these sorts of things, yes? Uplift one another? That and, well, I can't help but keep it somewhat scientific. Kind of like a project! Except the methods are pretty standard." from tapping to gestures, Alsanna did not display the anxiety she had the previous time they had to explain their positions to one another, "
Now I've also answered the 'what' as a result. I want you to be better! Because it's better for me, and it's better for you. Your addiction is dangerous to both of us, so I've decided that it has to go. In turn, I do some silly good-girl adventures. Oh well. It's not like I was donating a kidney." and from gestures she went on to stretch her arms upwards, which them prompted a yawn, "
Does this make more sense? If not, I can also add that it seems nobody ever wants to fuck with you. That's some mega alpha-energy right there." with that compliment, her gaze was subtly avoidant. Not enough to prompt suspicion, but enough to establish some correlation with what she may be pondering.
Nishi seemed to listen intently. Once Alsanna was done, Nishi kept staring at the girl for a few seconds before breaking her gaze. The expression of before was rapidly replaced by another emotion that came to the surface, appearing quite genuine.
"Huh," the tone seemed even, despite the worry present on Nishi's features.
"I actually did expect the whole using me to your advantage. Not that I can blame you for that. I would have done the same thing if the roles were reversed," Nishi stated before turning silent briefly.
"What bothers me is something difficult to explain." Her pace seemed to decrease, slightly,
"I honestly don't care if others want to step up to me or not. I don't care about the opinion of others. In general, of course. I still want to be liked, somewhat." A soft scoff escaped Nishi as she had to admit that but seemed quite rebellious about it.
"However, it is more than that," narrowing her eyes, Nishi pulled her legs up. Wrapping her arms around them, she stared once more at the horizon.
"I guess that I lost something. Someone. And you remind me of her." Nishi's voice was softer. Her lips parted but she then closed them. Turning her head slightly to look at Alsanna, Nishi frowned again.
"I won't lie. I didn't save you because you are my student. I suppose I just don't like to, you know," an annoyed sigh heralded a second of silence.
"I can't explain this. Besides, you will make fun of it anyways." Gradually, Nishi's voice turned back to the familiar modicum of mockery and spite. Even her expression rapidly shifted back to the usual form and appearance.
"That or you will use it against me. And consistently saving your rear is going to end me sooner or later anyways."
The more razzle-dazzle impression Alsanna was giving with her more whimsical tone and gestures only stopped when Nishi's non-verbal became more impactful. Most notably the leg hugging, especially at these heights! Alsanna's hands set themselves on her hips, eyes trained toward the Jounin, and when eye contact was made, the serious nature of this exchange was reflected upon the scholar's own optics. As a comparison was made with someone else, Alsanna gave the same frown Nishi so often employed, with her lips somewhat tucked in but not entirely pursed, "
The worst I'd do is brush it off because it makes me feel exposed, but make fun of it? I mean if it's super stupid …" her hands opened up in the lightest of shrugs, "
I'd like to know, if you wouldn't mind." the tone had lowered to something more inviting, maybe even a bit sheepish, "
And rejoice, we'll probably both die if that happens. At least it'd be a wild ride."
A scoff flowed first out of Nishi before she would give an answer.
"It is super stupid. Immensely stupid. The more I think about it, the more stupid I feel about it." Enlisting a short silence Nishi's eyes narrowed while staring once more at the horizon - as if that would aid her in providing the right words.
"Her name was Chinami. A year or so later born that I had been. Though she didn't make it past twenty." Nishi's fingers dug in the fabric of her pants,
"Chinami Hirashima. She was my younger sister. Little brat. Posh and curious, is what I could say about her. Always questioned every decision." The woman's voice had a slight crack in it, as if she was nervous to bring up the small description.
"She used to like to poke things. I," a wry smile moved on Nishi's lips as she turned her head, once more, to face Alsanna again.
"I can't really describe it. But she had this fascination with how things worked. I once had overheard my father scolding her for freaking out the maids. For poking frogs and toads all day long. Eventually, she started to do things to scare the maids. Throwing a frog or something. Something, at least, to upset them and have her be scolded."
Nishi became quiet again as she rested her gaze on Alsanna.
"Don't worry though. I am not going to name you Chinami. Or have some weird craving to mould you in her image. You are a brat but not her."
From hips to below her chest, Alsanna crossed her arms as the story of Chinami was told. Her legs seemed restless, as if she wanted to leave, but her unusually focused fixation on the storyteller displayed something else. When the details came, especially with the late sister's habits, the agitated limbs ceased as the fresh Chuunin lowered her head while chuckling, "
Awh shit, frogs. They were the stuff back then. First thing I dissected. In the academy. There were quite a few near my house, but none were dead or anything. Fun to try and catch." a hand rose to brush some of her hair back over her ears, "
Yeah, no, that's sword-obsessed whacky teammate levels of strange. Although now I do have some insight." clearing her throat, a light sigh was allowed to escape her, "
Thanks for answering. I figured a war colleague but, that is indeed reasonable. Guess that's why I'm the favourite, huh?" Alsanna smirked, "
I'll ask one more thing. Then I gotta show you a little thingie thing." moving to the opposite edge of the wall they were on, and peering into the fortress' bowels rather than outside, she continued, "
So, what happened? Was she of the same vocation as you, ultimately?"
Turning around, Nishi would let herself land on the safe stone flooring. She studied how Alsanna responded to the story. While the chuunin made a comment if that was she the favourite, Nishi lightly shrugged.
"I suppose that could make you feel slightly better. But no," Nishi said, her voice genuine despite the rather sarcastic phrasing,
"I just favourite those who attempt to push themselves further. Hikari and Yuyuko have been clenching too much and for too long to my skirt. Or to that of previous skirts, from what I have been told, that I can't really care." Remembering something, Nishi wanted to make a joke. But she opted to just see what Alsanna was up to, until she heard the last question of her pupil.
"I killed her."
The three words forming the answer were spoken without a crack in Nishi's voice. Genuine guilt appeared on her features, if only for a moment, before Nishi once more casually shrugged. Her lips parted, only to shut as Nishi shook her head lightly.
"This is enough, for now. You wouldn't understand it."
With a twist came a cliffhanger. From subdued but still very visible shock, Alsanna was left stiff for a moment, giving Nishi a look of concern and her lips slightly parted. A good five seconds of nothing follow the Jounin's conclusion, "
Bullshit. You can't just say that and then spew crap like I'm some toddler nymph." her arms remained crossed, and even tightened a little on their bind, "
Brothers and sisters killing one another isn't unheard of. But there's always some reason. And I like to think it's a good one. But leaving it at that?" she shook her head, "
Should've just said now wasn't the time. I'd be annoyed, but at least it wouldn't be …" her hand was presented and pointed downward with her palm flat, "
This."
Nishi's expression hardened as Alsanna spoke her thoughts. Pocketing her hands away, Nishi slightly raised her chin, as she replied in return.
"And some reasons are best to not be voiced. I said more to you than I have done in years to most." Shifting her weight from her left to right leg, Nishi once more frowned although something seemed to be off.
"And some killings don't have a good reason. I know you are a brat and curious. But just trust me on this. We have delved enough for now." Nishi said, her voice growing sterner.
"
Well, yeah, because I'm actually good company." Alsanna rolled her eyes, steam eventually released from her nostrils, taking away the tension with it, "
Let me reformulate. You don't kill your loved ones for no good reason. At least, no good reason to you, I suppose." now she took a little, as the frustration has manifested itself in more crisp gestures and movements. Peering back down into the fort's buildings, Alsanna was left to ponder.
"
Alright, to make up for this shit, I need your help for something real quick." turning her head to get a glimpse of the other before nudging her head to the precipice, "
There's a little present in there too. Well, sort of."
"That is quite exaggerated," Nishi mumbled, though somewhat content that the prior subject was dropped - for now. Though she wanted to leave and be on her own for a bit, Nishi's curiousity was piqued by Alsanna stating she needed aid for 'something'. While she had grown to be wary of the girl's projects, Nishi crossed the distance between them with a calm stride.
"Presents?" Nishi began as she placed her hands against her hips, slightly leaning forward to gain a better sight of what these 'presents' could be.
"Are you starting a charity of some sort?"
All Nishi would see would be dilapidated buildings inside the fort, this sector in particular had eaten a few Boggart assaults and other explosives, "
Charity for your dingy rear, yeah. Consider it a reward for keeping your end of the deal, and helping me, of course~" before long, she'd vault the stone barrier before her and fall into the fort, only to safely land ninja-style on the pavement. The usual, really. And afterward, she gestured for Nishi to follow, until they got to what seemed to be a storage area that had its roof fall, with the central room loaded with stone and wooden debris, "
Welcome to a shit cave." she said as she opened the door to allow the Jounin in, "
And my future, short-lived abode for a little idea I have." to the right was a broken door with even more debris, and on the left, an opened door that had a pretty cleared room. To its corner, barely visible from the central space, was a sort of setup made of wood that resembled the improvised Moonshine breweries some Jirian soldiers had, though it had a bit more tubes, some looking like used medical ones, and was a bit larger, like it was part of the furniture of the place, "
I guess it's pretty obvious, yeah? I kinda need this shit cleared and the roof fixed. Something something earth abilities. Yeah? Can you? Pretty pleaaaase?"" puppy eyes.
Staring down, Nishi didn't follow Alsanna immediately. Releasing a soft sigh, Nishi would drop to the same pavement, with no trouble on her ends to land safely. Following Alsanna, Nishi didn't hide her confusion as Alsanna stated something about the mess being her future abode.
"Of course," Nishi mumbled as Alsanna cleared out what she required. Eyeing the mess and the fact that the roof could use a hand, Nishi raised her right hand.
"Before I will exhaust any energy in aiding you, care to explain what your plan is?" Running her hand through her hair, Nishi threw a sideways glance at her pupil.
"Cause I already have various objections." The jounin further stated as she dropped her hand and looked back at the debris that Alsanna wanted removed.
"
Fuck objections, this is going to be soooo cool. Just, gimme a sec," she had gone to the adjacent room and was talking from there, so her voice was a bit louder and echoing. Eventually, she came back while dragging a somewhat large, rectangular piece of wood with something blue written on it, "
Ta-daaa!" the 'New Moon Boutique', "
So I've been gathering some ingredients here 'n' there thanks to a precious booklet of mine. And I thought, 'I made substances before, I can probably make some here too!'" she did use a silly voice for this one. The sign was posed by the door, "
For a price. No charity. Oh! And I've also been concocting something you'd like. But yeah, before we go, I'd like to make a grand opening with a comfy, little shop; Y'know, to show I'm the real deal." with that, she returned to the cleared room, and then emerged with a couple of bottles. One had a red liquid in it, the other green, "
Made some of these. Now I'll admit, my current residence is not … Optimal. So, having this place cleared would also make for a more sanitary and safe environment, yes? Yeeees?"
Waiting patiently to see what Alsanna would conjure to coerce her, Nishi, to aid with this project the jounin sighed. But this sigh didn't entail as much frustration or annoyance as usual. Glancing at the debris and the awful roofing, Nishi remained silent.
"I can, yes," she answered, raising an index finger to signal that there was a 'but'.
"But if I hear anything of you bothering anyone. Or Divine forbid, someone else with a curse mark without my approval? I will shut it down. Forever." Nishi said as she threw a look at Alsanna.
"Now, step aside. Over there, yeah." Gesturing to aid Alsanna where she had to go, Nishi turned to the debris.
Moving her hands together, Nishi inhaled before she commenced her techniques. Weaving the required handsigns, she would use a technique to mould a sort of muddy flow that started to drift the debris to a central point of the room. Once done, Nishi investigated the first part of her handiwork. Appearing content, she focused on the following part.
Again the jounin performed various hand signs before placing the palm of her right hand against the slightly stacked debris. The rocks started to shift and mould, appearing to melt with each other to form a somewhat earthy pillar that went to the roof.
"I will clean the mud in a second." Nishi stated as she would walk outside the abode, to scale the walls and make her way to the roof. Inspecting the damage and various holes, it was clear that she had to find something to 'repair' it and prevent any bad weather from being a nuisance.
Sucking on her left cheek Nishi flexed her fingers before she dropped through a hole in the roof. Tapping the ground with her boot she would then look up again.
"Imagine that," she muttered while conducting another technique that required her to crouch and placing a hand on the ground.
"Using jutsu for something else than combat," the words barely left Nishi's lips as a small pillar would rise from the ground to the height of the roof. Focusing on her task, a few drops of sweat started to become visible as Nishi began to direct more of the ground to the roof - the top of the new pillar starting to spread and cover the holes in the roof.
Pulling her hand from the ground, Nishi observed the now thin pillar. Forming a fist, she would knock against the pillar, which crumbled upon impact. To finish her work, the woman went to the widespread mud. Mumbling something underneath her breath, Nishi just formed a few more hand signs and tapped lightly on the various spots of mud - causing it to become hard flooring again.
"There you go." Nishi stated, beckoning Alsanna that it was safe to come back in the room.
"I suppose it isn't amazing but it does what it needs to do."
"
Hey, the last time I did that, it was consensual. So far, she's fine. I think." following the instructions, she first made sure the door to the other room was closed as to avoid any dust or extra debris, "
Make sure nothing gets screwed in the other room, kind of need what's in there." stepping back, she soon opted to just stand outside, and quite far, as to get a view and not dirty-up her clothing. Leaning back against a neighbouring building, arms crossed and one leg over the other, Alsanna watched Nishi's magic unfold. By then, the sleepy owl had awakened, and manifested itself in its true form as it emerged from its master's pocket, and found solace on her shoulder. It too witnessed the construction work going on.
The end-result was taking form, with Nishi's exertion becoming more apparent, though Alsanna only had a view from outside, "
I mean, isn't that what retired shinobi do? Use their talents for more mundane jobs?" more mint leaves were made to be chewed on as the scholar remained idle. Slowly but surely, the abode was made to look presentable, and with a couple of touches, it even seemed smooth! When it seemed safe, the younger female stepped into the renovated interior, starting with her feet tapping on the solid flooring and her gaze absorbing the new details, "
Stable foundation. Good, good. Leave the decorating to me." a smile crept on her visage as she then clapped her hands together, "
Good work, Nishi!" nod nod, she then gestured for the other to follow into the pristine room, where one could better see a couple of crates stacked with various potions on one side of the room, and the improvised brewery on the other. Reaching toward the distillery, a couple of nearby shot glasses were seized and a liquid was drained from the container. It was sky-blue, and certainly seemed peculiar. One of the glasses were passed to the Jounin, "
Tell me what you think." there really wasn't a lot, enough for a tasting. The smell was surprisingly sweet but the stench of booze was unmistakable. It was a Roshesh, a somewhat average one as it was the previous batch, something not found often, and was hard to discern for the uninitiated given they took many, many forms, with this one being a new iteration made by Alsanna, "
To adequately passable health?" she raised her glass, before chugging.
"Perhaps. I wouldn't really know," Nishi replied, throwing a look at the ceiling to be certain that it wouldn't cave in.
"Hm," turning to her student, Nishi eyed the glass that Alsanna offered. Accepting it, the woman did raise the glass to take a whiff.
"Dear Divine," lowering the glass instantly Nishi's lips curled down as she squeezed her eyes shut.
"That is, just, oh wauw." Opening her eyes, she was just in time to catch a view of Alsanna chugging the drink down.
Staring down at the beverage Nishi's stomach already turned as the detected odour was anything but satisfying. Closing her eyes, Nishi slightly raised the glass before placing it against her lips. The scent of the liquid caused her to shiver as the glass' content moved in her mouth. Chugging the drink, Nishi immediately lowered the glass and her features went from agony to surprise.
"Huh," slightly confused Nishi seemed to wait for something.
"It is a bit too sweet for my taste. But actually, it doesn't taste that bad. Smell though?" Nishi offered the emptied glass to her student,
"that is something else entirely. Bad, needless to state I believe. Bad is even to put it mildly." Pausing, Nishi tilted her head slightly.
"So what? You are going to start a bar? Here?"
A look of anticipation reigned on Alsanna's expression as Nishi went for it. The hesitation, the suspense, the reveal, it was all so delectable. It was no foul moonshine, but indeed a properly designed liquor, "
Like it? Good. It's a Roshesh. Well, the extra sweetness is due to a purity factor being a bit … Off." seizing the glass with the same hand that held her own, she'd put them away and then checked on the brewery. Taking a whiff and calibrating some elements, she'd nod, "
Now this batch … Mmm~ I'm not a booze lass, but I do have an eye for good stuff. I haven't run a test yet, but I can FEEL an 85, maybe even 90% factor. And fuck was moulding that gelatine a shitshow." rambling on, she'd march over to the crates, as to present the various bottles, which didn't look too glorious as they were clearly repurposed from other uses, "
A bar? No, no. That's how I'll end up fined and with issues. This is a pharmaceutical boutique! All with substances made to improve one's quality of life~" one of the bottles in particular was chosen. The green one, "
Take this. Tsubomi's Spice. A few iterations of it existed in Akino's more rural areas." the thicker bottle was offered to Nishi, "
Also known as the Poor Man's Gourmet, as it flares up taste buds to make the blandest of meals taste AMAZING. Though very addictive and corrodes the tongue's senses if overused." she cleared her throat after setting the crates back in order, "
I had found a few interesting ingredients that could mimic some elements one couldn't usually find. This one in particular … Came out nice!" she then nodded, "
Keep it, by the way."
Nishi wasn't sure how to respond back to her student. Despite being a former 'lover' of the alcoholic beverages, it was confusing where this was all coming from. Accepting the bottle that was offered Nishi eyed it for a second. Lowering the bottle Nishi moved her gaze back to Alsanna.
"So you are now brewing?" Nishi asked, her eyes narrowing.
"I, what," raising her free hand to gesture to Alsanna to halt whatever she was doing or going to say, Nishi tried to shake the confusion from her mind.
"Start with step one. What do you want to do here? And then try to elaborate on why? Cause I am starting to have a few hunches. But unless you are going to establish this 'abode' as a tavern, I am starting to really think you gave me liquid insanity."
Throwing a sideways glance at the room that Alsanna was likely using to store or perhaps brew some of the liquids, Nishi seemed visibly to consider inspecting it before placing her attention back on Alsanna.
"You can imagine how this seems right? First, doing your best to harass and basically do everything to get me off the drink. And now in essence cultivating it again and, well," gesturing to the place around them,
"doing even more."
"
It's a fucking potion shop, ya' dingus. I'm selling aphrodisiacs, sleeping fluids, wake-up fluids and taste drinks! The liquor is just extra." the dullest of stares was dedicated to Nishi, "
And yeah, I got you to sober up. Doesn't mean we're doing some program or one sip means you're back at it. Sheesh." stepping into the renovated central room, she'd visualize her surroundings while pondering, "
The Roshesh is going to be sold in an auction. I'm sure more than a few officers will band together with quite a few Gold Dragons for it, especially with the samples. It's all about making some extra dough, Nishi." nodding away, she seemed pleased about something she had visualized in the empty space she was in, "
What you have is literally a taste bud amplifier. Just use a few drops on the meals you like to not get too hooked."
"Huh, really embracing the witch vibes," Nishi mumbled as she once more glanced at the bottle.Weighing the item in her hand she turned her attention back to Alsanna.
"Alright." Throwing a look around at the space and seeing that her pupil seemed content, Nishi raised her free hand slightly.
"Don't get in trouble," Nishi said before she would attempt to turn towards the exit.
"I will try to not enjoy this," raising the bottle of Roshesh,
"not too much."
"
Oh you bet I'm taking advantage of my new moniker. You try not to care, I try to capitalize!" a toothy grin too form on her visage, "
But! If it wouldn't bug you …" rubbing her hands together, she'd actually follow Nishi to the exit, though not before locking the restored establishment beforehand, "
Mind displaying to the brass just how nice my product is? Y'know, slip in the good word? Word of mouth? A witch is scary, but the tonics she offers are the real deal!" the enthusiasm was almost asphyxiating.
Staring at Alsanna, Nishi's usual frown came back to her brow.
"You want me to do a good word, no, actually sell your stuff. Okay," Placing her free fist against her hip, Nishi shifted her weight from leg to another as she sized Alsanna up.
"What is it in for me? And to make it easy for you. I don't want money. I don't need your alcohol, tonics or other supplements. What do I potentially gain from investing time and effort to spread some good word around the officers to get you customers?"
"
... I'll give you shares of my inevitable franchise." she took a moment to think, and just blurted out this answer, "
Yeah, I know, money, but it comes with the potential for looooads of freedom! If we make something big, not even shitty governments can tell us where we can and can't go." ambitious as ever, it looked as though she was resisting the urge to jump in place, "
Business partners sounds fun, no?!"
Sighing for the many times in a row today, Nishi's eyes closed as she lowered her head. Raising her head again to look at Alsanna, Nishi's eyes seemed to search for something as she spoke up.
"Business partners?" Repeating the term that Alsanna had used.
"Yeah, no, you aren't selling it to me. But, I will do you a counter-offer."
Allowing a second of silence to follow, Nishi threw once more a look at the place they were in.
"If I am going to do this, I will request, nay," raising her free hand again,
"demand that you follow orders. That means, no objections or snark. At least, to me or anyone ranked higher. No more trying to sneak in or getting your hands on anything that clearly but, clearly isn't yours. Do that? And we got ourselves somewhat of a deal." Extending her hand towards Alsanna, Nishi's right eyebrow slightly perked up.
"Well?"
"
Your loss. Money is one thing. Influence is another!" she shrugged, though it didn't stop her energy from overflowing. Taking in the counter-offer, she'd raise her hand very close to Nishi's visage, "
I refuse the 'no objections' clause, as well as snark when we're on a mission with just the other two peewees." she had mellowed just a little, "
You're making yourself a disservice by having me agree to being some agentic little tool. Someone has to be able to stand up to you if your judgement is compromised or faulty. But." puckering her lips, she took a few seconds before continuing, "
I can agree to the rest AND, I'll agree to keeping your image intact. I'll agree to everything in front of the brass. Or the General. Or any other limpdick fuck that may be judging. But I will disagree the moment we're between us. Can't expect me to be all good over advertising. So I think this deal's more reasonable."
"Oh yeah. Money, yaay. Influence, even better," Nishi said, dragging the words out with a dull tone to mock the idea that she wanted both. Her lips pursed as she seemed to consider Alsanna's counteroffer.
"Someone standing up to me? Huh, when did that ever happen? You mean, your little tirades were… awh, that is adorable," the tone giving away that Nishi was sarcastic about it,
"If it is between us, I won't care. If it is on a mission? I won't care. But on a mission or with other officers? You will be nice and quiet. Do that? And I will even become more lenient and eventually speak your mind. Eventually, perhaps, maybe… yeah, maybe."
Nodding to the extended hand, Nishi waited to see if Alsanna would shake it or not.
"
Fine." she was quick on that one, "
Unless it's fucking stupid. Which you're not immune to." her hand was presented though she didn't stop her gait. There was no need to make this all super official, "
Oh yeah, you should probably help Yuyuko with some mental fortitude exercises. Y'know, like you did with Hikari. With the Senbon. In the arm. Yeah. I do not like relying on an unstable teammate."
Immediately Nishi's expression changed but she would eventually pull her hand back. Passing Alsanna, Nishi's free hand was gently placed on the girl's head. The gesture lasting for a solid two seconds before the jounin retracted her hand.
"Mhm, yeah," she just said, only to then shake her own head before unlocking the door.
"I can see what I can do. But some people don't change. Or can be changed with a senbon in the arm," Nishi added. Opening the door she waited a second but then decided to continue onwards.
