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

Day by day, the tree keeps growing.
[ Easter Continent | Imperial Akinian Military - 3rd Division ]
[ 11th Brigade Camp | Mamoru Senju ]
[ Doing his day-to-day routine, Mamoru slowly adjusts to a life in a military camp. Undergoing training exercises to prepare for his next mission. He also makes an important first step towards embracing his new position, while looking for someone very elusive.]



For Mamoru, days seemed to mold into one, continuous cycle of sleeping, training and resting. Not that he was complaining. Keeping himself occupied was the best thing he could have asked for these days. Exercises seemed to be more demanding than ever, but he focused more than ever on them. His free time, albeit almost nonexistent, was also divided. Mamoru kept himself busy with training on his own, and he was doing so with both Oak and Ash at the same time. He wanted to master using both of his blades at the same time for the next encounter with the enemy that was bound to happen.

In his free time, especially late in the evenings he also trained in his Taika Armor. He chose this time to avoid uncomfortable situations due to his cultural heritage. Taking into account his previous experience, he found his armor rather cumbersome to wear, especially to fight in. This greatly surprised him, as he never experienced this issue before theseate night sessions. If he had this much issues with it practicing moves against still dummies, he could not imagine the problems he would face against a real enemy. Upon the third night training session in it, he took it off and sealed it away. He sat on the training field, looking at the scroll containing it.I think the time has come to sprout my own roots. I'm sorry, Father, he thought to himself as an idea was taking roots in his mind.

He gathered his gear and went back to the tent, where the rest of his team was already sleeping. Frowning a bit at the sight, he was hoping to catch Aoi still awake. During the past few days since their return, she has been elusive, to say the least. Disappearing early in the morning, returning to the tent late in the night seemed to be her routine. With a mental sigh, he placed down his gear and slumped down on his sleeping place. He gave one last look towards Aoi, then rolled to his side and within minutes, he was asleep. He opened his eyes in the morning, with the feeling that only a few seconds had passed. He turned quickly, only to look at an empty tent. He let out a sigh, running his hand through his hair as he did so.

Getting up a minute later, he quickly gathered his gear and went out into the camp, already bustling with activity. He made his way towards his morning exercises, arriving just in time with the rest of the group. During his warm up stretches, he thought he saw a person with unmistakable blue hair among the crowd. Taken back a bit, he shot a quick glimpse towards their drill instructor.He would likely stomp me for just the idea, Mamoru thought. The rest of his drill was the same as usual - hard, grueling and rewarding. Three hours later, he was already wandering through the camp, but not without aim.

First, he visited the requisition tent, where he obtained some brown paint. He was about to leave when an unusual piece of armor caught his eye - a kama. He heard about them from his father, who praised the added protection it offered to the wearer. Giving the Provision master a questioning look, the man turned to it, then turned back to Mamoru." You fancy that war skirt, kiddo? Be my guest, but remember - don't wash it in a machine." With boisterous laughter, have it to Mamoru, who quickly thanked and turned on his heels to leave. Quickly walking back to his tent, he unsealed his armor and quickly worked on detaching the shoulder guards, as well as the pieces protecting his legs.

He then tried to place the guards on his Akino flack jacket and upon examining it for a few minutes, going through various scenarios in his mind he was more determined to carry on with his idea. He placed them back on the table and opened the can of paint, matching in color with the jacket. He started to pain over the vibrant red with the Akinian brown, letting out a sigh of relief upon seeing how the new color looks on his armor. He quickly worked through both pieces, until there was only one spot needing to be coloured. The Symbol of the Senju Clan. With a somewhat heavy heart, and an even heavier sigh he painted it over. Once that was done he would let it dry for a few hours before visiting a blacksmith to help him finish his plan. As he watched the paint slowly dry, he uttered a few words that helped him realize that this was the right thing to do.

" This is no longer about the Senju, Hon or Hyuuga. This is about Akino now."
 
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[ Empire of Akino | Rain Province - Amegakure ]
[ Somewhere in Amegakure | Etsu Yabut - current Amekage ]
[ Etsu meets up with Gaho, one of her old contacts that still serves with the Tough Rats. The two discuss about two operatives that currently work within the Imperial military, stationed within the Rain province ]


She eyed the symbol. Its design and function were foreign to what any local clan had. So much was sure, Etsu mused as she observed the small object. It had been taken away from Kuni upon her retrieval from the Scholae that had brought her back. And even despite the research that was conducted, many were unsure what the small object meant.
"So, what are you thinking?" Gaho asked, after clearing his mouth. Holding a mug filled with an alcoholic beverage, the man stared at the foreign object that Etsu held. The token was round and made out of carved wood. A snarling hound's head was visible, carved out with delicate care. And in a rather particular style.

"That miss Sadako has some rather intriguing connections," Etsu responded, "I ran some checks. Did you know that she ran several times away? Seems that girl gets antsy by the mere sight of discomfort."
Throwing a glance at Gaho, Etsu paused briefly.
"But I am also thinking that we are going to get involved with some nasty business. Question is, who is behind all of," gesturing with the small object Etsu continued, "this? Kidnapping a jinchuriki isn't amateur work, you know."
The man became quiet for a moment. Staring at his mug, Gaho would shrug lightly. Raising his mug, he took a hearty swig before placing the mug down. The sounds of his lips smacking did irritate Etsu slightly but the woman remained silent about it.
"If I were you, I would else consider painting the girl as a target. Then lay a noose. Moment someone goes for it, tighten it. I doubt anyone would mind using the girl like that. She is being considered nothing more than a container for that dreadful demon anyways," Gaho casually stated.

Etsu nodded as she listened. She also couldn't put herself to care for Kuni. The jinchuriki had done little to help or make a positive image for herself. The mere fact that half or more of Amegakure held a big disdain for the girl was known. Yet, she didn't like to sacrifice a potential asset.
"Problem is that she is connected to Eiji Emiya. And to that Uchiha, Ryu Uchiha," Etsu began, "Seems that Eiji had some interesting connections either. Were you aware that he was in contact with Aiko Cho-Hon? And also had crossed paths with Hiron Hon?"

The reaction was a soft scoff, barely audible.
"So renowned shinobi knew each other? I see no big revelation or problem in that. Besides, Eiji was a well-connected man. He served as the assistant of the Sandaime Amekage."

"Yeah, you are right. But the thing is," Etsu continued as she kept observing the curious object of Chonobi heritage, "Kuni is the one that brought Eiji and Aiko in contact. From my sources, Kuni ran away from Amegakure and then got somehow into the temporary care of Aiko."
It became silent in the room as Etsu paused.
"Now it is just a stretch. But what if our little jinchuriki didn't resist at all because it was Cho? It would explain some of the odd behaviours that were observed from the reports. And also why she was found so far in the eastern part of the Empire."

Gaho seemed to frown, pondering on the possibility and the myriad of consequences that it could pose. When Etsu glanced over, she could read from his face that he didn't like where it was going.
"Wasn't there a connection going on though with the Hon clan? Maybe you are going into a good direction but not entirely right..."
Etsu flashed a smile as she snapped the fingers of her right hand.
"Ah! I investigated that as well. Curious enough, there seems to be a connection. Miss Sadako, the mother, may have been laying around with a Hon. Not entirely sure how that came to be. And it did indeed made me wonder. However, I am not sure. The Cho and Hon are different clans but yet are politically merged. The possibility that the two Great Clans worked together? It is quite feasible. But one of the highest military advisors and chiefs in command is a Hon. Why would the Hon risk something for the mere hide of a jinchuriki like Sadako?"

Gaho slowly nodded as it started to fall together in his mind. Crossing his arms, he tried to find the next piece together. Eventually, the man rose from his seat and started to pace around. Much to Etsu's amusement.
"So the Hon and Cho are possible for the kidnapping of the jinchuriki. Let us say that they are. What could we do? Cause do you think they are going to try again? What if it is another clan though? Or a foreign power that tried to feign that they were of Cho or Hon descent?"

"Simple," Etsu began, as if she had all the answers to the questions. At least, she had answers to most questions as she had thought and investigated some of the possibilities.
"If it were the other powers, why go east? If it is one of the powerful Taika clans, why risk heading into the Sarutobi territory? Very coventiently, also during what they call the All-thing. Some sort of Chonobi gathering or assembly. Only clans that could pull such a manouvre off are likely the Hon or Cho."
Pausing, Etsu released a soft sigh.
"Of course, there isn't much that we could do about it. Miss Sadako went already without any resistance. Which either proves she is stupendously naive. Or makes her one of the biggest idiots around," Etsu casually announced to Gaho, "I could try to represent these findings to the Empress. But I lack any hard evidence to show who was behind it all. Leading to making an enemy out of two Great Clans. Something I am far from interested in," Etsu explained.
Gaho kept pacing, taking in what Etsu told him. Then he briefly halted, turning to Etsu with a frown.
"So, what then? You are going to just let it slide? Because it might be a Great clan behind it?" He gestured to the door, "What if they try it again in Amegakure?"

"Don't worry. I got competent ANBU trailing her. To be honest, I blame that Chu Omari didn't do more. And my predesuccessor not trying to also tighten security when everywhere and everyone is dealing with all kinds of crap. After all, it isn't just Kuni that might drag in some Cho or Hon. We might be dealing soon with Uchiha investigators as well."
Her words caused Gaho to pause and turn slowly towards her. The frown that was present started to reveal some of Gaho's thoughts. He seemed quite unhappy, Etsu mused to herself amused.
"Why in god's name would the Uchiha start to come over? We got nothing that should interest them. Do we?"

"Technically, we do. Know how much trouble Kuni might bring us? Now let move from one dot to the other. Ryu Uchiha," Etsu started, "apparently the girl has some alteration to her eye. It might be something akin to what the Second Hokage unlocked. However, I still have my doubts. But Ryu did want to contact the Uchiha. So who knows? Maybe we soon will have the possibility to get a teaparty with some Hon, Cho and Uchiha. Lovely, huh?"

"Dear god," Gaho mumbled as he raised a hand to massage the bridge of his nose, "so what clan is next? Don't mind answering that," Gaho quickly brought up as he shot an annoyed glance at Etsu, the woman's lips already parted to pass a cynical response.
"What are you intending to do about that then?"

"Now? Not much. I learned from my exchange that little miss Uchiha knows as much of the Uchiha as she likely can see from her right eyesocket." Etsu stated.
"But it certainly gives reason to keep watch over her activities. I would have loved to see what Eiji could do. But that guy is no longer an option. Due to having retired and all that," the woman released a sigh.
"But I did come here to ask for a favour."
 
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Assembling the pieces
[ Eastern Continent | Akinian Imperial Military - 3rd Division ]
[ 11th Brigade Camp | Mamoru Senju ]
[ Mamoru gets a visit, an unannounced and nightmarish one. Delivering the pieces of his armor and his flack jacket, Mamoru decides to write another letter while he waits for the pieces to be assembled. As he realizes, opening up about the events that happened is perhaps the best way to deal with them. But the person he wants to talk with is as evasive as ever. ]

Instead of taking the armor pieces to a blacksmith, Mamoru decided to attend even more exercises. The sun was setting low by the time he got back to his tent with his dismantled armor still on the table. He approached it and after making sure that the paint was already dry, he placed his hand to the places that were proudly wearing the Senju symbol a few hours ago. A faint smile spread on his lips, together with the same sense of pride as he felt before. He sealed the pieces away and placed them into the tent, grabbing some fresh clothes.

Washing oneself in these conditions was difficult and extremely refreshing, but Mamoru did so regardless. When he walked back to the team's tent, he looked at Aoi's spot, still empty. He let out a sigh filled with signs of frustration as he sat down on his bed. He really wanted to talk to her about the events before the cave, but it appeared that his wish will have to go unfulfilled for one more day. He lied down and rolled to his side and with a frown on his face, he quickly fell asleep.

" Why?! " A voice cried out, piercing the silence. Gasping, Mamoru looked ahead. He saw a man, his heart pierced by a blade - his blade! He looked further down, his shaking hands grasping the blade. The man started to make slow, unsteady steps towards him, ignoring the blade that was piercing him more and more. Mamoru wanted to let go of the handle, but his fingers disobeyed him. When the man was right in front of him, he raised his hand, covered in blood and reached out for Mamoru." Why did you … "

Mamoru sat up in his bed, shaking and sweating, his eyes open wide. His hands were shaking just like they did in his dream. He looked around, finding the tent empty. And for this occasion, he was relieved. It took him about fifteen minutes to get out of the tent, and he immediately went to the blacksmith. Reaching it a few minutes later, the large frame of the smith turned to him, his eyes full of curiosity." How can I help you, kid?" he asked, his voice almost like a rumble of a ravine sliding down, yet still somewhat kind.

" I-I'd like to attach this kama, and these shoulder guards to my flak jacket, hopefully in a way that would not restrain me too much, but I have no skill in the art of smithing, so - could you please help me out?" he asked, speaking as firmly as he could. The man eyed the pieces, and a sly smile spread on his lips." This is an unusal request, young man. I see no reason why not - swing by later in the day!", the man replied with a wink and turned.

Sighing with relief and thanking the man, Mamoru headed to the morning exercises. His body felt stiff, unwilling to move. The two hour routine was a struggle to complete, and by the end of it he was covered in sweat. Upon being dismissed, Mamoru ignored everyone going for lunch and went towards the tent instead, grabbing his scroll intended for letter together with a pen. He climbed the tallest tree he could find and leaned against the trunk of the tree, securing himself with his legs. He unfurled the scroll, glancing over the previous letter he wrote to his parents, then unfurled it until the parchment was clear. He glanced over the camp, and once again saw the unmistakable hair of the person he wanted to talk with so bad. Despite wanting to, he knew that time wasn't right. Upon closing his eyes for a few minutes, he opened them and started to write.

Dear father,
I survived my first mission yesterday. Well, survive is a rather subjective word. I was forced to take a life, and albeit it was in self defense, I still took it. I made sure to honor the fallen, the way you taught me. I took something from this earth, and I made sure to give something back. And I will give back so much more, for I know I will take more. I admire you even more, Father. During your times, you must have taken so much. I think I understand your words better now. Thank you for being my roots, now, more than ever. Please tell Mom I am alright, and please make sure she does not worry too much about me.

With love,
Mamoru.

Satisfied with the concets of the letter, despite the shaky handwriting, he rolled the scroll up and rested his head against the trunk of the tree. From up here, everything seemed so peaceful. The busy camp underneath him seemed more like a patch of soil, upon which ants were going on about their business, doing their best to evade each other. With a smile, he slowly closed his eyes, deciding to rest here until the next drill. He slowly shifted his attention from the chant of voices to those of birds flying around him, and a warm, honest smile spread on his lips. Somewhere, deep down, he knew things will be alright. That seed of hope was already planted, and if he can be patient with it, its fruit will be more than worth the wait.
 
  • Sympathy & Compassion
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►Ryu Uchiha◄​
►Team: Team Unassigned Chuunin
►Location: Amegakure
►Interactions: Some Clerk Dude
►Note: Both of these posts are set before the most recent Etsu post.


The girl wore a pleasant smile as she looked on towards what had been the ruins of the old hospital. It seemed that they had very much managed to finish the efforts to finally clean up all the ruins that had stayed from the attack. Moreso, the building behind her that had been the temporary hospital was very much taking shape and becoming something more... permanent. There was talk that they might make the building an extension to the main wing once it was rebuilt, though the Uchiha had different ideas for it. She'd talked it over with Doctor Tsubaki, and he thought her idea was rather good. Which, in turn, was why one of the hospital's head nurses was now taking the update on the status of rebuilding efforts to the city's higher-ups. It was a little strange to think she was among the head nurses at the hospital now, but with so many of them having perished in the attack, any who had some experience before were pretty much immediately promoted up.

Soon after having stopped to collect her thoughts as she looked at the finished clean-up efforts, the Uchiha was nearly at the building where she had the meeting with the official. Fortunately, it happened to be right near the Amekage's building. Ryu quickly ducked inside and met with the nice woman behind the counter right upfront. Through her, Ryu set up a meeting with the Amekage for a few days later, so she could meet and discuss with her something that had been on her mind for a while. How she wanted to meet with the Uchiha Clan and try to figure out exactly what was going on with her eye. She'd had enough people she trusted witness that it physically changed its appearance, and noticed some small changes herself. So, she figured it had somehow changed itself. With that, Ryu was most certainly hoping she could meet with the clan, as she worried that something might be happening that could cause her harm.

So lost was she in her thoughts, that she almost didn't realize she had left and arrived at the building where she had her meeting. Wearing a friendly smile, she checked in with the receptionist and was soon on her way. Stepping into the rather bland office, the girl gave a respectful bow towards the older man sitting behind the desk. He was balding and had a face that seemed to give him an almost fatherly look. One of those kinds of people who vaguely reminded just about everybody of a pleasant old grandfather. The girl stepped forwards and offered him the letter that was the official statement on the status of the hospital. Of course, since she had written it there was also an entire second page with a proposal that she was making. One which she elaborated upon after he read through it, about how she wanted to turn the location of the old hospital into a sort of memorial for those who had fallen during the attack. Something which she hoped with give the people of Amegakure a place to say their farewells and honor those they lost during the attacks. Which, she felt, might serve well in easing some of the tension in the city. Afterall, she certainly felt that it had helped her to be able to visit her mother and Sugu's graves. With a noncommital response about bringing it up with his boss, Ryu was dismissed as she went back towards the hospital to finish out her shift.


►Ryu Uchiha & Etsu Yabut◄​
►Writers: Jessie and @Oetje
►Location: Amegakure
►Summary: Ryu goes to meet with the Amekage about her predicament with her eye! It doesn't go as expected!

She was rather nervous, as she made her way through the halls towards her appointment. Her mind kept drifting back towards the last time she had taken these paths, during the riots when she had found the previous Amekage in that… state. Still, today almost felt like it was more intimidating. There was no threat, sure, but that also meant there was no adrenaline rushing through her veins to belay the nerves eating through her at the moment. Soon enough, the chuunin found herself standing before the door that led into the woman's office. Taking a moment to stop and straighten out her clothes, chosen to be presentable for a meeting with the Amekage. Then taking a long breath, she stepped forwards and gently knocked on the office doors, taking a step back to wait to be allowed into the office.

Sitting behind the office, Etsu's eyes narrowed. She already had reviewed several reports, wrote replies and signed instructions that had her blessing. While it wasn't physically tiring as leading a field team, Etsu started to understand why it took a great amount of willpower to sustain the rank of Kage. Where it didn't exhaust her physically, it was certainly draining in its own way.
Hearing a soft knock, Etsu didn't look up from the paper. It took her almost a full minute before it actually registered. Glancing up, a frown appeared on her brow. Deciding to postpone making a decision that the paper demanded from her, Etsu would move it. Once her desk was void of the previous paperwork she subtly gestured to the guards at the door.
The other two guards at the other side of the door remained silent, letting the chuunin enter once the door was opened.

Eyeing Ryu as the chuunin entered, Etsu's head slightly cocked to the right. A polite smile dawned on the woman's lips. "Ah, yes," the woman's eyes half-closed as she folded her hands together. Though there was nearly a legion of chuunin, there were a few that had taken Etsu's interest. Certainly regarding Eiji's former students and connections.
"Ryu Uchiha? You requested a meeting with me?"

As she waited, the girl anxiously cast her gaze around the empty hall and at the guards on either side of her. As time went on, the Uchiha did start to worry that perhaps she had gotten the wrong time or something of the sort? Just as she was about to speak up and ask the guards if the Amekage was still expecting her, the office doors opened. A small sigh of relief could be heard as she knew she was here at the right time. Else she was fairly certain the guards would be escorting her the opposite direction.

Making her way into the room, Ryu's gaze travelled gently about the office. The girl distracted by how organized and… not graphic the scene was compared to her last visit. Though after a few moments it dawned on her that she was just staring around, like an idiot. Her entire face turned a deep color, followed by a quick deep bow towards the Amekage. "I-I'm sorry Lady Amekage! I got a bit distracted… last time I was here was a bit different." She said by way of an apology as she straightened back up. "I did request to meet with you, Lady Amekage, and thank you for taking the time. Its um… it's an odd request I wanted to ask of you. Is it okay if we talk about it in private?" She asked, looking towards the guards for a moment as she wasn't sure who she could and couldn't tell about her predicament. "I am sorry if I'm overreaching boundaries here." She added, then awaited the response.

Awaiting what the chuunin had to say, Etsu remained silent. She understood perfectly that she wasn't making it easier for the other. But in truth? She didn't care or want to make it easier. Her job was to govern, not to make friends. When the Uchiha started to take in the office's sight, Etsu's right eyebrow slightly perked up. There was a fitting comment on Etsu's tongue but she decided to just wait and give more time for Ryu to assemble herself properly.
When the Uchiha started and explained her distraction, Etsu remained silent. Only when Ryu requested that they could talk in private, Etsu flashed a friendly smile.

"No."

The response was firm yet without any disapproval. Understanding the desire to discuss matters in private Etsu decided to enlighten the Uchiha of her reasoning. "The last one to warm this seat was beheaded in this very same office. I have my guards for a very clear reason. And I trust them. So what you want to tell me, you can tell that with them doing their job." Etsu finished, deciding to slightly lean back in her seat.

Somehow, she had not been expecting the woman to say no to her request. Although looking back, she probably should have seen that coming. When the Amekage explained her reasoning, the Uchiha nodded while also looking a bit uncomfortable. She remembered that exact scene, finding the Amekage here without her head. It was something she found pretty difficult to forget in all honesty.

With a small sigh, she nodded before speaking up. "Yes ma'am." She said before continuing to get to the point. "I came today to request if we could reach out to the Uchiha Clan. About… about my eye. My Sharingan, specifically." She said and took a small step towards the desk. "Something happened to it that changed the Sharingan." The girl said as she produced a little notebook she had been holding at her side. "I've tried recording what happens and what changed in here, but if I'm going to be honest I don't really know when the change happened." She explained to the Amekage, stepping forward to offer the notebook to the woman.

When the notebook was accepted, she took a step back. Inside the notebook, were notes taken down of each incident that Ryu had noticed her eye changing. Including what others had told her they saw, and anything she noticed. All in as much detail as the Chuunin could muster, and in a very organized manner. Written for somebody else to be able to understand. "As far as I can tell, and as you'll find in the notebook, the Sharingan physically changes it's own appearance. I haven't seen it personally, but Yoshikuni Sadako told me it seemed different the time she saw. It also seems to enhance the Sharingan's normal abilities. Everything appears to me to be… significantly slowed compared to the usual when using my Sharingan." She explained, giving the example of when she had been fighting the two men in this very building before discovering the Amekage. Both had seemed abnormally sluggish, and the girl had a much easier time fending them off than usual. "But I cant activate it at will. As far as I can tell it's very negative emotions that activate it? I.. I dont fully understand. It also drains me immensely." She said, before deciding to pause while the woman took it all in. Not wanting to overload or anything to the Amekage.

Etsu listened to what Ryu had to say. Her facial expression didn't shift. The Amekage sat there, taking the story of Ryu seriously. Accepting the notebook, Etsu simply placed it down in front of herself. Her attention stayed at the Uchiha.
"I am familiar with the Sharingan. As I am aware of what myths surround the so called advanced form of it. The one that the Second Hokage had obtained." Etsu responded on her turn, "But I will explain a few things, miss Uchiha. Cause my answer to reach out to the Uchiha? It isn't going to be a yes."

Leaning forward, Etsu planted her elbows on the table. Keeping her eyes locked with the remaining eye of Ryu, Etsu began to explain. "Amegakure has been through various revolts. People have been killed. I am even aware that you got demoted before for hurting a civilian. And even digged deeper. About you having killed your sibling. Whether it is out of self-defence or not, I don't care. I deal in facts, not opinions or points of view."
The friendly tone of before vanished as Etsu kept at it. "You are a chuunin of Amegakure. Stationed in Amegakure to serve the nation here. Reaching out to the Uchiha clan? Now? If you are such good friends with Miss Sadako, are you aware of the trial she went through? Being accused of running off with kidnappers? Which likely was either foreign operatives or God forbid, an Imperial clan."
Pausing Etsu let the words sink in.
"As far as I am seeing, you are maybe suffering a sort of trauma," tapping the notebook with her left index finger, Etsu frowned, "or worse. You can't handle it and then you want to reach out to a clan that likely doesn't even care that you exist? In fact, answer me these questions. Have you been in contact with the Uchiha clan this month or before?"

Ryu was a bit stunned whenever the Amekage started listing off the things that had happened to her before. Though her eye went wide whenever she was told about what happened with Kuni. The girl had to bite her tongue to keep from arguing back about Kuni. As she simply refused to believe that her friend would simply run off like that. Then the tone of the conversation seemed to turn accusatory towards her. The girl seemed to be knocked off guard as she took a step back. "No? She said, clearly confused by the question. "I've been spending almost every moment--"

Before Ryu could finish her sentence, Etsu raised a hand - a clear gesture for the chuunin to silence herself. "You had no contact with the clan recently. And I have little to doubt that you had no extensive contact before."
The tone gained a sharper tone.
"Do you know who was behind Miss Sadako's 'kidnapping?"

The girl fell silent when she was cut off, not sure how the conversation got so detailed. "No. I didn't even know she got kidnapped." She said before falling silent.

"Mhm," Etsu continued, "Do you serve the Uchiha clan or Amegakure?"

"I don't understand, I serve Amegakure but aren't we all under the Empire? She responded, clearly worried about what was going on at the moment.

"Many would say that. But only a few would mean that," was Etsu's calm retort. "Who would you write to if I were even to sanction contact right now with the Uchiha clan?"

"I don't know, that's why I came to you. Somebody who can teach me how to control… whatever this is." She said in response, feeling a bit embarrassed and even more confused at the whole situation.

"So you don't know who to contact." Etsu simply stated. Inhaling slowly, the Amekage would pick up the notebook and open it. "The way I see it, you are doing things without thinking straight. Which makes me believe rather that you have a trauma than something that needs to be controlled," Etsu said as she started to read some of the notebook's content and flipping through the pages, "You don't know the Uchiha clan. You don't know who to contact. You don't know what you're even dealing with."
Lifting her eyes briefly from the notebook, Etsu halted for a mere second.
"You are simply a lost child who thinks it will be easy to reach out without consequence. Naive."

Turning her attention back at the content written Etsu became silent for a few seconds.
"I won't let you contact the Uchiha clan. Not until I am certain that the province is once more peaceful. Not troubled with the remains of the insurgents or those zealots. And not until you have done your homework much better."
Lifting her gaze back at the chuunin, Etsu closed the notebook. Placing it down on the desk, she would shove it slowly forwards so that Ryu could reach for it.
"And I will make it entirely clear, Miss Uchiha. You can, of course, file to resign. Try to get dishonorably discharged from active duty to bypass my decision. But if you are out of the Imperial military, I will have you be arrested and trialed for the murder of Suguha Uchiha. The very same day."

Aware that this was likely the least what the girl expected Etsu felt no pity. She wasn't like her predecessor. Or like Ryu's mentor.
"Unless you have anything else to discuss, you are dismissed, Miss Uchiha."
 
Briefing: Dirty Blades
[ Eastern Continent | Wolf Country | Imperial Forces ]
[ 11th Brigade | A relatively short collab between @conman2163 , @Oblivion666 , @Aliceee , @RedFox , @Jessie Targaryen ]
[ Kazumo Sarutobi gathers those that will be assigned on Operation Dirty Blades. Meeting with the majority of the unit that he will be responsible for, during this operation, he briefs in those that will lead a detachment. ]


It had been a few days for everyone, it provided the time for them to heal from any wounds on previous operations. He had heard that one of Meilin's team had suffered a rather serious injury but was cleared from what he was told. Today would certainly be a new one for him, he had never led an entire operation after all. Mistakes that others would make fell on his shoulders and he knew this. He was told about all those that would join and he had to formulate the best plan to utilize their strengths and weaknesses. He had a solid idea on what he wanted to do but he was open to ideas from Meilin and Orun on how they felt things should proceed. Kazumo would wait though, so far only a couple had arrived and surprisingly one of Team 4 already arrived. The one that suffered the injury and was reported to be rather…. Blunt.
"Will you be able to perform as expected despite the handicap?" Kazumo asked Madoc who was sitting on a box.

The blonde looked over at him and gave a shrug. "I mean I would say no so I get sent to lookout duty buuuut they won't take me anymore. Something about I might miss something. Can you believe that? Such hurtful words they said to me. I cried and cried, then I lifted my eye patch so the water flowed out, and cried some more." Madoc said smiling at Kazumo who simply stared back a bit lost.

"...... I was joking." Madoc stated to which Kazumo then had the look of the joke dawning on him to which Madoc whistled.
"Wow. You two would make such an odd pair. Can't wait to laugh my ass off." Madoc joked before quickly turning his gaze away from Kazumo who just stared daggers at the man, almost wondering how he knew what Kazumo had done before they came to the East.
Kazumo, however, would just sigh and cross his arms as he waited for the others to show up.

"If you will make it till then."

Meilin's voice pierced the air before she came in sight, appearing from around a tent. A frown was perched on her brow, directed at the one-eyed Yamanaka. Though addressing Kazumo, Cho's gaze rested briefly with a certain expression on the Yamanaka.
"The others of my squad will be here very soon," Meilin directed her eyes at Kazumo, placing her hands on her hips, "they will be, hopefully, less much of a joker than my boy here," she said - only briefly raising a hand and pointing at Madoc with a thumb for emphasis.
"Though, is it just going to be my squad and you on this assignment?" She decided to ask, wondering already what kind of operation they were assigned on.

Just as Meilin asked the question, Aoi also appeared behind the corner. A friendly smile flowed on the Miyazato's face as she performed a quick salute. After doing so, she would throw a subtle glance at Kazumo and back at Meilin.
Opting to say nothing, Aoi would decide to stand a bit back and await what troubles they were sent to solve.

Once again, he had a feeling that he woke up seconds after he closed his eyes. Despite this fact, Mamoru felt well rested and prepared for any mission coming their way. He quickly gathered his gear and went outside the tent to prepare some mint green tea. He didn't want to start a fire near their tent for a few minutes, so he went a bit deeper into the camp to do so, thus missing both Dagrún and Aoi exiting the tent. His thoughts were calm and focused as he watched the water boil, then added the green leaves together with mint to the tea. Pouring himself a cup after a few minutes, he used his flask for the remainder of his favourite beverage. After enjoying the warmth that spread from the tea inside him, he turned to his gear.

He started with unsealing his new flak jacket - the shoulderguards from his old Taika armor were firmly attached, together with a kama on his waist. He strapped in and placed his ninja tools to his pockets, then attached two more complete sets in scrolls to his waist. He strapped on Oak and Ash to his back and waist respectively. The last was his Akinian forehead protector, that he tied firmly around his head. Closing his eyes for a few seconds, he thought about his parents and how much he loves them.

Standing up as he opened his eyes, quickly made his way to the gathering point. He saw that Meilin, Madoc, Kazumo whom he didn't know much and Aoi was already there." Senju Mamoru, reporting in." was all he said as he arrived, just to announce his presence. He gave them all a respectful tilt of his head, then flashed a brief smile at Aoi as he walked next to her, silently waiting for everyone to arrive.

Heading to the rally point Dagrún chewed on a bit. The beef jerky wasn't certainly the best culinary matter that one could experience but it more than welcome. For Dagrún was anything but a fan of the usual porridge. It filled one's stomach but it was lacking in taste - to put it mildly.
Making progress to close in on the point where they would get together Dagrún started to frown. If anything, she wasn't too happy with how the last mission had gone. Maybe her expectations were set too high? The frown knitted more on the brow of Dagrún.

Before she could indulge further into the thoughts that spooked through her head, she reached the point.
Spotting the various members of the squad, Dagrún would raise her hand as a matter of greeting. Only to notice the unknown man. Chewing on her bite, she eyed the gear that he sported. Then she swallowed her bite, before speaking up.
"Huh, either ye're from a House that I don't know. Or are ye a Scylding?" Dagrún asked in Chonobi, not bothering to translate herself as she continued. "I heard several of yous are fighting in the brigade. Looking forward to hunt with ye, heh."
Turning her attention to the others, blinking once, Dagrún flashed a small grin.
"Good morning, I suppose this is all of us, aye?" She asked, not hiding her curiosity while awaiting what would happen or be said.

Tomiko did not take long to arrive after Dagrún, arriving almost perfectly in time with when the girl before her had mentioned something about that being all of them. There wasn't anything particularly special to her entrance, apart from a brief look towards Kazumo. As the girl remembered the previous missions with him, particularly how he had intended to just leave her when she was injured and unable to walk on her own. That much did not excite the Hyuuga about this mission, though at least she would be working more closely with Orun than with the Sarutobi. Her half-mask hung just below her face, as she hadn't pulled it up yet to conceal the lower half of her face. There was no point at the moment, and she figured it would only earn her funny looks from the others on the mission. Looking around the rest of the group for a moment, the girl seemed slightly confused that Orun wasn't already with them. She had figured somebody with rank as he had would have arrived early.

Then looking back towards the others, she realized that she didn't particularly recognize most of these people. Sure, she knew the names of those she would be working with, but she didn't really want to hazard a guess towards which name went with which face. Instead, she gave a small nod towards the rest of the group before speaking up. "Tomiko Hyuuga, reporting in." She said softly, before once more falling silent. There wasn't much else for her to really say in that moment. That, and the girl had a habit of just being silent when she was on edge. Something which being deployed so far from home certainly pushed her towards. As such, the girl opted to remain silent for the time being as she waited for the orders or whatever would be coming next.

Orun was running a tad later than he had planned for. He had woken up early, left the camp, and grabbed some of the additional weapons that he had stowed in Tireo's saddlebags which required him to summon the dragon. His close call in the cave the other night had made him weary of not having an additional short-range weapon that would be easy to access and he also needed the scroll that stored his shield. It had taken longer then he had planned for however as he was heckled at the gate back into the camp. As he made his way to the tent the meeting was near he was tightening various straps to make sure they stayed well in place. At his waist was strapped his sword and across his chest was a long knife in a leather sheath. He'd opted for it to go on his shoulder for ease of access. Slung across his back was his shield. As he arrived he nonchalantly noticed that he was the last here. "I hope you didn't start without me. Would've been here sooner but the bastards at the camp entrance wanted to heckle me." He went ahead and adopted his usual arms crossed stance, waiting for the meeting to begin.

Slowly the others would start trickling in to the meetup, he would have answered Team Four's question but that was answered when Tomiko and various others began showing up. A couple more minutes passed by with Kazumo having a rather annoyed look on his face as Orun would show up explaining his reasoning.
"Well why did you leave camp in the first place if you knew we had an objective today? I don't want to hear excuses before we even set out. Sergeant Orun." Kazumo stated to the Hyuzu before looking at the others making sure everyone was indeed here before speaking.
"Today's objective is a simple one, we are clearing out an outpost to make further travel for the armies a more simple one. Now the ones leading the squad you have been assigned to have been informed of traps that were sniffed out by the scouts. The leaders are Lieutenant Meilin and myself Kazumo, and Sergeant Orun. You are to listen to their instructions when out in the field. Today should be simple enough if you follow orders. Their numbers are below fifty and that's counting them scouting."

Kazumo then pointed and motioned at both Meilin and Orun to join him up front.
"Sergeant Orun you are leading the least experienced group in terms of stealth. So I want your group to take care of the traps and dispatching of any squints that come to check on them. Lieutenant Meilin I want your group to take care of disposing of the Squints that aren't checking for the traps. My group shall be dealing with the Red Cloaks that are reported to be in the outpost. I suggest we attack during the day as night time they might have sensors up. I want ninjutsu usage to be used with your own judgement. I prefer it not being used at all, yet if the situation is dire enough you need to use it then you are allowed. Nothing. Flashy. Understood?"

Meilin remained silent as others joined. In truth, she was happy enough that her squad had joined and was on time. Frankly? She couldn't care much about the others at this current moment. When Kazumo requested just her and Orun, Meilin would shoot a look at Madoc first. Then flashing a small smile before joining Kazumo and Orun.

Placing her hands on her back, Meilin listened to what Kazumo had to brief them on. Only for her to start frowning yet waiting till Kazumo was done.
"You want us to just deal with the squints that linger around?" The question was asked in a particular fashion, that revealed her displeasure with it. "How do we deal with a red cloak that commands a bunch of squints? If anything, we could attempt to take those out as well. While we are at it, sir."

A valid enough question. A scout report from yesterday could drastically change in a day under circumstances. "If the scouts reports are accurate, they are bunched up in the outpost with some other squints. You shouldn't see any Red Cloaks until the outpost. Yet if there happens to be a Red Cloak out and about on patrol with some Squints, then you have permission to eliminate them. Yet if not, then only time you can engage the Red Cloaks is in the outpost. You two should only be running into Squints checking traps, or squints on patrol. The more you two kill before the Outpost, the easier it becomes."

The answer seemed to be Meilins liking. She had some thoughts on how they could achieve their goal. Nodding as Kazumo replied, she did consider something.
"That is fine. I have some faith that my group can hunt down squints without any use of ninjutsu. Perhaps we can even try to capture an officer? If we even recognise one," Meilin said, just sharing her thoughts. The language barrier and little understanding of the enemy's military would make it near impossible, she figured.
"Do we regroup or signal each other before the main assault on their camp? Or are you going to try to carry that with your unit?"

Orun was quiet through the meeting after being mildly irritated by Kazumo. It was pretty simple in Orun's mind, you don't summon a giant beast of legend in the middle of an army in hostile territory unless you want to cause a stir. Never the type to really speak up unless absolutely necessary or in the face of a dangerous mistake. When Kazumo called him up to the front Orun moved to stand beside him. Though he was aware he was leading the least experienced group, it seemed odd to him that given the sole task of just dispatching the traps and those that come to check on them. After all, even if they aren't the best at stealth, they are still shinobi. He didn't say a word though and nodded. If Kazumo wanted him to dispatch traps he'd do as ordered.
 
The pieces that fit well. A prelude to Operation Dirty Blades
[ Eastern Continent | Imperial Akinian Military - 3rd Division]
[ 11th Brigade Camp | Mamoru Senju ]
[ Mamoru completes another day of exercises and battles, internal and external ones. At the end of the day, he decides to go for the pieces he hopes fit well into each other. ]

The noon before Operation Dirty Blades

After enjoying his time resting against the trunk, Mamoru realized he couldn't have made it through the rest of the day without it. He didn't fall asleep - partially because he was worried about having another visit in his dreams. He just rested there, taking in the sights, the surroundings. Not only in the camp, but also in it's close vicinity. He tried to push his senses beyond the walls, to the nature surrounding him. He was not sure whether he succeeded, or only convinced himself. In the end, the outcome was the same.

He was rewarded with a sense of calm, peace and happiness. He could feel the earth, resting under the cover of the snow. Plant life using the earth as shelter, recovering its strength for the coming spring. Animals, small and big, making their way towards their goal, searching for something, but not in a rush. Despite every single one of them following their own goals, everything was in perfect order. In an order only nature could achieve and maintain without turning into chaos. Surely, there was death, decay, but not without its own purpose - to create the foundation for new life. While the young Senju felt sad about all the loss, he knew it was not without meaning. It was to facilitate new growth, that will result in new life. As nature intended.

Coming back to the moment he may have never left in the first place, Mamoru allowed a small smile to spread on his lips. He slowly opened his eyes to a surprising sight sitting on his right leg. A blue chickadee was eyeing him curiously as it rested there, turning its small head from one side to the other." Hey there, little buddy." He greeted it with a soft voice, observing it patiently. The chickadee turned its small head a few more times before looking at his leg, and pecked at his leg a few times before turning away with a jump, then taking off the skies.I'll make sure to bring something with me for the next time, he thought as he climbed down to once again become a part of the crowd.

The exercises seemed less gruelling then before, and he did not feel the same kind of exhaustion as he was used to. He actually felt strangely invigorated by them and thought about continuing to train on his own - and he would probably do it, if he would not remember the instructions from the blacksmith! Quickly gathering his gear, he left the training grounds and made his way to the smith who was making order among his tools, and as he spotted Mamoru approaching a smile spread on his lips. A clearly tired, yet welcoming smile.

" I was worried you'd forgotten, kid! I managed to connect all the pieces to your flak jacket! While it was more work for a riveter than for me, we figured it out together! Give it a shot!", he replied in his thundering voice as he pointed to his newly assembled armor. The kama, also covered in the former leg guards of his old armor, was riveted to his flak jacket perfectly, and the two pieces blended into one. The shoulder guards were attached to the jacket by leather bracelets, also riveted to the jacket itself. He felt his hands shaking a bit as he reached for the armor. When he put it on, a strange feeling washed all over him. He was wearing armor that was the perfect fusion of Senju tradition with Akinian brilliance. He felt as if he became one with it the second he put it on. Trying a quick series of punches, combined with ducking and an upward kick, he felt no restrictions whatsoever.

He turned to the blacksmith, his eyes glowing with happiness." I - I thank you. This - this is just perfect for me. Thank you!" His reply was in a firm voice, in sharp contrast to his first visit." The pleasure's on our side, kid! I hope it'll protect you from what waits for you outside! You better go and rest now - judging from today's work, something big is about to happen. You better be ready, kid!", the man replied while Mamoru took off his armor and sealed it, then turned to the man and nodding,

" I - I'll stick to your advice! Thank you once again!" was his reply as he turned and headed for their tent. It was still empty, and the boy managed to get over it with just a sigh this time. There was a note on his bed, with instructions to be ready early in the morning. Feeling his stomach twist a little, he realized that the blacksmith was right. With a slight frown, he grabbed some spare clothes and decided for a fresh shower once again, returning to a still empty tent. Not really feeling like searching for company, he instead put his gear into order before laying down onto his bed. As he was going over the events of the day, exhaustion took over and the young Senju quickly fell asleep.
 
Operation: Dreadful Taste
[ Republic of Water | Kirigakure - Republican capital ]
[ Team Kukiko | A collab done between @Lilly , @Lesli , @Celestial Scorpio , @Sakayanagi Selko and @Gerontis ]
[ The team receives the mission to venture into the quarantine zone. It becomes quickly clear that the team is anything but excited to venture into the closed of districts of South Kirigakure. As they move out on the planned route to bring supplies to the quarantined populace, the team encounters some problems ]




Karuko took a look to the right. He had a clear sight of the forces that blockaded any entry to the quarantine. Most sane people stayed away from those that stood guard or patrolled. Not only city guards were present. A few shinobi were stationed, together with Republican military forces.
The barricade that was set up would mean that anyone had to climb for their life. Likely only to be shot down by the sentries or cut down by those who manned the barricades.
Raising the bottle, Karuko took a swig from it. Letting the alcoholic beverage flow down his throat and the bitter taste linger on his tastebuds.
A soft sigh escaped Karuko as he lowered the bottle, his eyes briefly narrowing.

Awaiting for his team to assemble, he was still pondering on how to get the mission done as soon as possible. The quarantine zone had recently been established. But already there was all kind of stories being whispered and shared among the people of Kirigakure. And none of those stories had a happy ending.
The mere fact that his team was sent in made Karuko suspect that the brass was testing their waters. To see how dangerous the situation was. Perhaps even to see if the disease was that easily spread.
Raising his bottle again Karuko emptied it with a swig. Placing the bottle on a nearby crate, Karuko pushed his back from the wall. Straightening himself, the jounin scoffed lightly.
This situation was seriously not to his liking.

Bashira stood a little ways off silently observing her team leader as she mentally prepared to meet him. Although, she was not entirely pleased to see him holding such a beverage. Didn't he know it was damaging his liver? Shira shrugged, it wasn't really her problem. Being so close to the wall made her nervous especially with the military forces stationed about the wall. Shira always kept her distance from sketchy places considering how small she was. If the leader of their team was seemingly fine with being at the wall then it was probably alright to be here. He was after all a jounin and could handle the situation. She sighed, making her hair was pulled back and out of the way before closing the distance between them. The small girl looked up at the at jounin and extended her hand in a greeting. "Bashira Tanaka, nice to meet you Sensei," Bashira said, trying her best to look serious.

Making his way to the quarantine zone, Aito wondered why he had been transferred. It wasn't uncommon for teams to be shuffled around and reorganized. Looking up, he saw the barricade in the distance. The genin heard some information about what had happened but what most would have been told. Some disease was making its way through the area and they had to cut the infected zone off. Seeing two figures standing idle, Aito walked towards them, a smile on his face. "Aito Aijin, you are Karuko sensei right?" He asked softly as he looked over to the smaller girl. "You must be a teammate, nice to meet you." For a moment he looked at the bottle the jounin had sat down on a crate. would alcohol really be a good decision he wondered but didn't say anything.

Heading to the rally point, Neime didn't appreciate where it was. Much like any sane person, she had stayed as far as she could from the quarantine zone. The Hayashi turned around the corner, just in time to see two figures approaching Karuko. Much like Neime had expected, the jounin had his usual air about him. More so when Neime closed in and noticed the two unknown figures.
With a silent nod towards Karuko, Neime would place her hands at her back. A blank expression seemed set on the Hayashi's face as she spoke, her gaze shifting between briefly between the two newcomers.
"Hayashi, it is a pleasure to meet you all." She said, a formal tone dominating her voice as she addressed the newcomers.

As Aito headed over to see Bashira and Karuko, Yuyuko herself was arriving to join the team granted her mind was wandering in Shion's transfer, wearing the mask that covered her right eye.
She herself did not like the fact that now Shion had to be transferred but orders were orders…. with that, she soon came into view wearing her mask as she always did.
However as she remembered the annoyance previously that caused her pay to be docked, she decided to take it off placing it into the new in her clothes that she now used to keep the mask when not in use opting to cover the right eye with her right hand since she was not using her hands to carry anything of importance at that time.
"Hi Hayashi san, Karuko sensei!" The girl says in her regularish sing song voice as she looked at the other two. "Hi to you two as well."

Karuko stared at the first newcomer. The girl seemed as if she still belonged in the Academy. Though he was the last to speak about looks, Karuko's newfound annoyance at the current regime just grew. Was it too much to ask for proper material for military service?
When the girl reached out a hand for a handshake, the jounin wasn't sure what he felt more. Confusion on why the recruit thought that he was going to be friendly or growing annoyance about the possibility of yet another naive genin.
Then the second genin came, who introduced himself. Karuko simply ignored Bashira's offer for a handshake as he eyed Aito. The boy was a transfer from another team, causing Karuko to wonder if the boy had gained any experience.
The jounin caught sight of what the boy glanced at. Much to Karuko's amusement, Aito kept his opinion to himself. Which Karuko approved as he wasn't going to have much patience with smartasses.

Neime shortly after arrived. The Hayashi reacted quite formal, which was no surprise. What, however, caught Karuko's attention was Yuyuko's arrival.
The jounin stared at the latest arrival of the team. Not breaking his gaze as Yuyuko approached. When the girl finished speaking, Karuko waited. After a few dreadful seconds, the man's lips parted. Yet his gaze didn't part from Yuyuko.
Then he decided something. He didn't care. The girl was on her own.
"You two," Karuko threw a sideways glance at the newcomers, "I am Karuko. The bastard who leads this sorry excuse of a squad. I am not here to be your nanny. Not here to babysit your sorry asses. You are here to follow orders as I am. And today, you lot are going into the quarantine zone."

Raising a thumb Karuko pointed at the heavily secured entrance and exit of the quarantine, up ahead. "We are to help and deliver some supplies. I don't expect any violence. And if there is going to be a scuffle, those people are citizens of Kirigakure. You are prohibited by the law from using any kind of violence against them. Unless I order so."
Letting his words sink in Karuko wondered how much they even had heard about the mysterious outbreak of disease. Then again, he didn't think it mattered if they would listen to his orders.
"Any questions? Once we are executing the mission, you all fall in line. No hesitation, no weirdly confusing my orders for something else. If you lot can manage, we will be in and out of it without getting caught by the sickness ourselves."

Shira gave a small smile at the first of her teammates to arrive and let glanced at the other three who were now joining them. Not gonna shake my hand? she thought to herself, letting her hand fall to her side. Bashira turned her attention to her teammates, maybe they would care to at least exchange pleasantries with her. "Nice to meet you all," she said. She was confused as to why Yuyuko was covering her right eye with her hand and opened her mouth to say something about it, but then closed it. Bashira would mention it another time as their sensei did not seem to be in the mood for anything, much less leading their team. As Karuko Sensei started explaining the mission Bashira found herself dreading every second they would be in the quarantine zone. The disease was dangerous and spread through touch from what her grandmother had told her about it, yet they were expected to go in. What if something went wrong and one of them contracted the disease? Shira calm down, just stay away from… well everyone and you won't get it, she told herself. Her hands wandered to where her senbon were strapped to her legs and she fingered the flap covering them. If they were going into this then she would make sure that they kept their distance from her. "Understood," Bashira said, crossing her arms.

Listening to the briefing, Neime's face didn't betray her thoughts. There was a lot that Neime didn't like. And one of those things was diseases. Fighting them off wasn't as easy as utilizing ninjutsu or parrying a strike. A vile taste started to become apparent in her mouth, quickly followed by an itch in her hands.
Shaking her head slowly to emphasise that she had no questions, Neime felt more like the need to rush home and get a bath. Throwing a subtle look at the entrance to the quarantine zone, she had the idea that getting past the area would result in a death sentence. One by the horrible disease that ran rampant.
While waiting for the next batch of orders, the Hayashi started to phrase in her mind a prayer to the Divine.

Looking as two others approached the team he had realized they would have an extra member. As the jounin spoke, Aito gave the man his attention. Listening to the briefing and introduction. "Dressed like that, you would be a badass nanny. Snacks would be appreciated though. You don't have any jutsu that can summon food, do ya?" The boy grinned as he looked to his team. He wondered why Yuyuko had taken her mask off and now covered her face with her hand but just shrugged it off. He would make sure to remember to ask her if he could wear it some time. Giving a smile he introduced himself to the pair that arrived after he gave his name. "Aito Aijin, looking forward to the new team.'

Did he have any questions? He had a few but they would be better asked while not preparing for the mission. Looking towards the quarantine zone he shook his head. "No questions, get in, get out, don't contract the disease. Seems simple and straightforward."

As Yuyuko listened to the briefing, an annoyed twitch appeared on her face as unlike most situations and previous enemies, diseases can't simply be cut down which Yuyuko silently admitted she probably prefer that methods more than any sane person probably would.

Then again she still carried her own personal habit of blinding herself in one eye quite close in her heart but at least she seemed to be doing it lesser perhaps in part due to Karuko and Kuikiko sensei's influences. Her thoughts at least for her new team-mates at least seemed mixed as Neime and her seemed to have a quiet understanding that they are team-mates who look out for each other but may not be friends. Shira seemed nice enough to start but probably not for this mission at least and Aito….well she did not have many comments but part of her groaned inside since current team-wise, discounting herself, she saw the team as being led by tough as nailed. Perhaps overly pissed off by the books sensei and the remaining team-mate from the last one, the silent professional lone wolf which was not bad. But felt annoyed that her team traded away the overly zealous Shion who at least can work in tandem with her for Aito, who might take things less seriously than herself. And probably drive both Kukiko and Karuko into their coffins. Granted, she herself already drove them in there halfway first with Shira being a slight saving grace, once they were in a less problematic mission.
Whatever the case is, she continued keeping her hand over her right eye all the way through listening in to the instructions from Karuko as she nodded remembering the spread of the diseases to some degree as mentioned by her father.
"None. Ready to move."
Her tone at least having some seriousness as she herself whole normally willing to not care, this virus at least was something that made the weird and random genin actually take things seriously.

Karuko observed the genin as they each responded. Bashira seemed nervous, Karuko already catching the motion of the girl's hand. Frowning as he reckoned that the genin wasn't planning on giving the locals a session of acupuncture, he would throw a look at Neime. The Hayashi remained silent, giving little reasons for Karuko to doubt that the Hayashi would run off.
Then Aito parted his lips, catching Karuko's attention. A second of silence followed when Aito finished.

A laugh escaped Karuko as he placed his hands on his hips. Managing to push the laugh back into a snicker, he shook his head before speaking up. "I like clowns. Shame that they die so fast though," Karuko said, his amusement clear in his voice.
Throwing a look at Yuyuko, Karuko simply took her words for it.
"Good, then we are going to head out."
Gesturing to the genin to follow him, Karuko would approach the fortified entrance to the quarantine zone.
The approach of Karuko's team was observed by the various people that stood on guard. When they came close, Karuko signalled to the genin to stay put while he spoke with a guard of the entrance. The two men engaged in a conversation, only for Karuko to break off and walk back to the team. Stating that they needed to follow, Karuko led them through the barricade. Behind it was a few soldiers guarding a cart that was pulled by a donkey.
As Karuko and the genin approached the cart, the soldiers said nothing but walked away.

"Well, time to deliver these supplies into the zone. Hayashi, you take rear. Yuyuko you take right. Aito, you take left. Bashira, you guide the donkey." Karuko ordered, as he waited for the genin to basically surround the cart. The sheet was over the supplies was tightly over it, held by various pins to prevent what was underneath to get wet.
"Good, now time to get moving."
Walking at the right side, Karuko kept a close watch of their surrounding. As well several glances to make sure that none of the genin tried to unclip the sheet - just to have a look what was underneath it.
So far as they went, things seemed somewhat normal. Except that the street was abandoned. There was some markings carved into the walls, the markings bearing words that gave warnings or carried obscene messages to bypassers.
But the more that they went into the quarantine zone, the more that it started to appear like a slum. A stench would begin to bother them and people that came in sight were wearing clothes that were dirty or damaged. Sometimes both.
The street would become dirtier with each passing step as the locals had thrown their trash on the street. Or worse, used it as a communal toilet.

Making the team stop at a certain spot, Karuko threw a glance around. They were quite far away from the entrance into the quarantine zone that they used to enter the place. If something would go down, they were essentially on their own.
Seeing a few curious locals stare at them, from a safe distance, Karuko would turn to the cart. Unclipping the sheet at various points, Karuko threw it back. Revealing simple food. Grabbing a piece of bread, Karuko turned around. Walking from the cart, he offered it to an old woman. The senior's eyes widened but soon a grateful smile crossed her wrinkled features. Taking the bread, she mumbled many thanks before turning and walking away.
The action caused other locals to move closer, clearly in anticipation to receive some food as well. Out of the bystanders, none showed the dreadful disease that showed crystal being protruded from their flesh and skin. Save it for a small boy that had some crystal piercing out of his left shoulder - causing him to hunch a bit.

Bashira couldn't help the smirk appearing on her face at what Aito said and shook her head although not in contempt. It was good to have a sense of humor and she found herself curious about the boy. "Let us save the jokes until this is over," Bashira murmured. The white-haired genin turned her attention back to their Sensei who was now motioning for them to stay put as he spoke the guards. Bashira found herself wondering about the best way to survive this mission if they weren't to use physical force on the citizens. Perhaps she could act sickly and maybe they would leave her alone out of fear of getting the disease. Her thoughts were interrupted as Karuko-Sensei started giving their orders, and as she was instructed to guide the donkey she simply nodded. Moving to where the donkey was and observing the cart that had a sheet securely fashioned to the wagon. What was so important that it had to be hidden by a sheet? As they moved into the quarantine zone, her eyes darted around as she took in everything. Bashira watched as Karuko-Sensei unfastened the sheet and handed out some bread to a lady. There was only food in the cart? Why cover it then? As people came forwards to get food or supplies she stepped closer to the cart and then she saw the boy. The boy hunched over with crystal protruding from his shoulder and she kept a wary eye on him.

Neime felt her body growing tense and rigid. Not wanting to display any form of anxiety, she was happy with her position. At the rear, she was safe from the others being able to keep an eye on her. Something she hoped that they would, seeing that they started to advance into the quarantine zone.
Throwing various subtle looks around, Neime wasn't sure what to expect. Her fantasy had conjured the image of depraved slums, that was repulsive and a horrid to visit. But honestly? She was disappointed when comparing reality to her expectations.
When Karuko would reveal what was hidden by the sheet, Neime didn't really care. They were to provide aid and soon enough Karuko's actions started to draw more locals to get closer - yet not too close for discomfort.
Taking a breath in, Neime decided to step forwards. Taking out some bread, she had already noticed one individual in the curious group of locals.
Turning to the boy that was forced to hunch forward Neime approached him with a calm pace. Extending the whole piece of bread towards the boy Neime forced herself to lock the boy in his eyes - avoiding to steal a glance at the crystal that pierced out of his shoulder. Even as her guts were telling her firmly to get away and avoid any contact, or even breath in the same air.

It seemed the joking was mixed between liked and disliked. From his old team, he knew not everyone took lightly to his less serious demeanour. Aito didn't say much to the response from their leader. He could easily choose to be more strict, in the past it was needed to survive but until it came down to it, the boy would keep his airy tone. Taking his side next to the cart he saw how things grew worse and worse the deeper they walked. He had expected things to be a bit like this but not to the extreme state it was in. Once the sheet was released he saw Karuko giving bread to an elderly woman. Then Neime approached the boy who was sick to offer him bread as well.
Taking some of the food he began to pass it around to some of the locals, not getting too close and keeping in mind they could be sick even if they had no physical symptoms to the naked eye. He half wondered if the jounin laughed at him because he knew they would be giving food to the civilians and Aito mentioned it teasingly. Smiling as he passed food to the people he looked over at Karuko wondering if there were more orders than to simply feed the people.

On Yuyuko's part, she could not help but shrug as she looked at the team wondering how they would work together as she too participated in helping to distribute the food to the masses as she was careful to try to ensure she did not touch them.
Sure it probably would feel bad seeing how she and the others were so cautious of the people but she tried to rationalise it as her needing to keep health as she switched to using both hands and opened the eye she kept covered whether her team mates noticed or not as she kept an eye on the others and herself while doing her work.

Turning to the cart, Karuko kept a close eye on his team. Not for their sake, for Karuko frankly held no attachment to any of them. If they would end up infected by the crystal, that was on them.
This seemed, however, to plague the genin's actions and thoughts. So far that Karuko could detect, their actions showed certain care or uncertainty. Likely, some of them expected that they would be deployed on more combative or subterfuge-like missions. Which was a hilarious but incredible stupid thought: Karuko didn't trust any of them with taking out a foreign operative. After all, if they couldn't take some pride in taking care of their fellow countrymen, then they were less of use than they thought themselves.

The handing out supplies went rather well. More people from the quarantine neighbourhood came. Most were shy and seemed to harbour a distrust of the genin and jounin - almost equalling the genin's caution and paranoia.
Yet, it seemed that the exchanges went without any hostility or problems. More locals with signs of crystal infestation did appear but those people remained calm. Likely more aware of their condition, attempting to avoid much physical contact - as much as the situations allowed.

Underneath Karuko's leadership, the team would relocate itself. Several times the team would be instructed to move the cart as they moved across a certain route, only known to their team leader.
Some of the neighbourhood didn't seem too bad off, likely due to the diligence of the locals attempting to make the best of the situation. But a few insights deeper into the quarantine zone allowed some dark sceneries to unfold. Decrepit buildings, people looking as miserable as their surroundings and trash being thrown on the street - which was accompanied by a terrible stench, to just name a few matters.
But underneath Karuko's stern command, the team would continue across their route and eventually be forced to help out those who were heavily suffering. Various individuals had various crystals protruding their clothes - the crystals mostly around the arms, chest, shoulders and some even the face. But none of those seemed wanting to talk or be comfortable enough to linger around for much longer than a humble thanks or bolting away once they received some supplies.

On the way to one of the last places, something seemed off. The street that the team and their cart moved in was void of life. The street wasn't properly taken care of. It was filthy and there was enough signs to indicate that people lived here.
What made matters worse was that a man laid on the ground. A puddle of crimson liquid formed around his right side as the individual remained still and silent.
"Well fuck," Karuko mumbled as he narrowed his eyes. So far he could see, there were no signs of a fight or anyone else around. The majority of the windows were barred or damaged, curtains pulled to avoid any sight inside.
"Place the sheet over the cart," Karuko ordered as he snapped the fingers of his right hand to get the attention of the genin. "Stay vigilant and stay at your post," he further ordered.
Approaching the man, Karuko quickly deduced that the individual was dead. Kneeling down, the jounin observed the visible wounds and any signs of the crystal infestation.
So far that Karuko could see, the man was either healthy or the infestation hadn't grown to the stage where the crystal protruded out of his body.
To make it worse, the man's visible wounds weren't that alien either. Carefully, Karuko would investigate the wounds - grateful for wearing gloves.
Clicking with his tongue as he figured out that the wounds were made by a sharp object, Karuko threw a look around. There was no trace so far he could see to figure out what had happened.
 
Imperial Gathering - 1
[ Empire of Akino | Kanazawa, Uchiha Heartlands ]
[ An Imperial gathering has been organised, in the city of Kanazawa. Honouring their oath to the crown, the Imperial clans flock to the city where they are generously welcomed by the Uchiha clan - who have the honours of organising the meeting. The Gathering is a special occasion for the Imperial clans to muster together and discuss various topics. Or bring suggestions to the crown. As expected, the event is woven with intrigue from the participants as backdoor deals and alliances have been forged. Rivals plotting to outdo the other or schemes to thwart the plans of others. ]

[A collab between the Akinian Clans ]





The travel towards Kanazawa was rather dull. But she hadn't expected anything else at this point when it came to long distance travel within the borders of Akino. With the comfort of her carriage, Kiyomi was deep into her book as the sounds of outside were muffled by the careful design of the interior - the thick wood and various material having that purpose to give some peace and privacy to the young monarch.
While Kiyomi had opted to ride a horse herself now and then to get some fresh air, she had agreed to Katashi's plan to move her into the carriage once they would arrive at the borders of the Uchiha heartlands. Though there was little doubt that the Uchiha were plotting something nefarious, Katashi seemed more on edge than usual. A fact that slightly amused Kiyomi but to do the Sarutobi a pleasure, she complied with his requests.

Briefly, she glanced from her book at her traveling companion. The tall blonde man that resided in the carriage seemed asleep. Causing Kiyomi to shake her head lightly before focusing once more on her book.
A few soft knocks were barely audible but Kiyomi managed to register them. Opening the small window slightly, she quickly saw that they were about to enter the city. Listening to the Sworn Sword who knocked, Kiyomi nodded and returned back into the carriage. Only to see Kensuke yawn and stretch.

Around a hour or so later, the royal envoy reached their destination. The Uchiha had prepared quite the welcome as there was an abundance of servants. Flags of the Uchiha clan as Akino were held high in the wind, both from the walls of the closed section of the city as within the large courtyard. Heralds would announce and honor the Empress entrance.
As one of the Sworn Swords opened the door of the carriage, Kensuke Nimatsu was the first to leave. Only to turn around and offer hand to Kiyomi, who exited after the tall Nimatsu.
Before being guided to the prepared lodge where the young monarch would be allowed to reside and prepare for the imminent meeting, the noble family that governed the city and surroundings would personally welcome her.
After the pleasant exchange, Kiyomi and most of her envoy would be allowed to their lodge. Once prepared and having enjoyed a warm bath, Kiyomi would be escorted by Kensuke, an unit of Sworn Swords and servants to the large hall.
The place where the meeting was held was within a spacious hall, where various grand paintings were hanging. Artwork that detailed many feats and achievements of the Uchiha clan. At one such artwork Kiyomi paused, briefly letting her eyes rest on it. Unlike the others it wasn't peaceful but portraying one of the times that the city of Kanazawa had been under siege. Specifically by an united force of Hon and Tokugawa.
Resuming her walk, she would be welcomed by Hirasuke Uchiha.

"Your Majesty," the Uchiha made a deep but gracious bow, "it is a grand honour to welcome you into Kanazawa. I hope that your journey has been a most pleasant one." The man placed his hands at his back and kept his head a little bowed.

"Thank you. And yes, my journey has been most peaceful. Allowing me to prepare in full for this meeting." Kiyomi replied, feeling the need to look for Shozo. She was aware that the old man was still in charge of the Uchiha clan. But rumours were spreading from the shadows that his health was deteriorating. "I assume that you are taking the place of Lord Uchiha? I hope he is well," Kiyomi decided to state.

Hirasuke kept a polite smile present on his lips. "I am allowed to bring you the apologies of Lord Uchiha, your Majesty. Since recently a flu has been tormenting my lord. In his place, I will try to do my best to not disappoint neither you or him." Hirasuke made a small and subtle bow.

Content with the answer, Kiyomi would walk towards the table where the meeting would be held. It was shaped in an 'U', with her on centre of it. On each chair was a banner of silk, representing where each respective clan leader or representative could take a seat.
Taking a seat on the comfortable chair, Kiyomi would await the start of the meeting.

Some hours after the royal envoy would reach Kanazawa, it would be followed by a display of grandeur and wealth. A small convoy comprised of guards on horseback, escorting various carriages. One that attracts much attention for its unusual form and attribute - various wooden handles sticking out of it.
Approaching the city gate, the banners of the Tamiyo would be easily recognisable as the convoy continued to stride forward. Though appearing quite ceremonial, the stern attitude of the guards radiated a certain discipline that would rival that of many professional military units. Their bright armour not undoing the practicality of serving both the wearer or their lord.
Continuing in Kanazawa, various of the small carriages would open to reveal a small contingent of servants. A large collection of strong men would walk to the larger carriage and lift the wooden handles. Lifting the small structure carefully various other servants would open the wooden windows and doors of the carriage - revealing the lord of the Tamiyo dynasty, the appointed Imperial governor of the River province.

Sitting atop the well designed wooden, mobile throne, Lord Tamiyo would greet the curious denizens of Kanazawa with a smile and wave. And the Tamiyo envoy continued to their destination, other servants would follow suit. On their way sharing the Tamiyo wealth in form of throwing flowers petals or sharing bread with bystanders - all the while guarded by the Tamiyo escorts.

Reaching their destination, the mobile throne of Takeo Tamiyo would be lowered. Walking from his comfortable spot, the Tamiyo leader would briefly engage with the welcoming party.
After a brief and pleasant exchange, the Tamiyo leader would mount his mobile throne again. Under the guidance of some Uchiha servants, the Tamiyo envoy would be led to their respective lodges.
Not much later the Tamiyo leader would be escorted to the hall where the Imperial clans would gather in the presence of their Empress.
Entering the hall, Takeo Tamiyo had a wide smile upon his lips. Spotting Kiyomi the mere second he took a step into the room, Takeo made a bow that somehow appeared quite gracious - all in spite of his rather plump appearance.
"Your illustrious Majesty," Takeo began as he took a few steps before taking yet another bow, "Your presence is as warming as the sun and as pleasant as the sight of a full blooming blossom tree. It is a pleasure to be in your Imperial presence," rising from his bow, Takeo would make a small nod to the current host - Hirasuke Uchiha. Afterwards, Takeo would make his way to his seat.

The next clan envoy that approached Kanazawa was much less of a spectacle to gaze upon. The banners alerted all those who wandered close enough who were approaching. But not only their banner betrayed their heritage. Their attires and stern gazes would make any local quite alerted for the true intentions of the approaching envoy.
Atop of a horse, Zakito sat with a straight back. Garbed in a fitting attire for travel, he bore no weapons and his guard was rather small. The stares and hushed whispers that he and his company conjured among the locals did little to bother them to reach their destination.
Whereas many in the aftermath would be both curious and only able to speak kindly of the Tamiyo entrance, the opposite was very true for the 'pack' of Chonobi that dared to enter their city.

Carrying the banners of both the Hon and Cho clan, the company of Zakito made quick work of their travel inside the city. Dismounting his horse, Zakito briefly felt a light aching from traveling on horseback. Though the welcoming committee was polite and respectful, there was a certain tension in the air.
But nevertheless, no hostilities would break out between the Uchiha and the Chonobi. Much like before, the Uchiha servants would guide their 'honoured' guests to their respective lodges. Taking some time for himself to get changed and rest from the journey, Zakito would travel alone with some Uchiha servants to the hall. Leaving his small retinue of guards behind in the lodge.
Entering the spacious hall where the event would take place, Zakito would make a deep bow towards Kiyomi. A smaller but respectful bow was given to the Uchiha host.
Much like before, Zakito then simply went to his seat and took his place.

Following the Hon-Cho envoy, the Senju envoy approached Kanazawa. There were about a dozen horse-ridden members, two of which carried the Senju banner. Most of the horses were equipped with only saddles, but one also had a carpet to decorate it. On top of it sat Risu, wearing what appeared to be decent travel attire. The entry into Kanazawa itself remained peaceful, with Risu thinking it is likely due to the good relations between the two clans. They did not have much in hostilities across history, after all.
Reaching their destination within the city, Risu couldn't help but have some admiration towards this city. It was a spectacle in many manners, and he knew it took proper care to keep it this way, considering some of the history.

The welcoming party was polite towards the Senju as they were towards the previous envoys, leading them to their lodge and allowing Risu to change to a more proper, formal attire before a few Uchiha servants came to escort him to the hall where the meeting would take place. As they walked over, Risu felt a bit uncomfortable leaving behind the guards that escorted him, but knew it was a matter of respect.
Arriving at the hall, Risu's first action was to offer a deep bow towards Kiyomi "Your Majesty." He said, before turning to offer a bow towards the Uchiha host, whom he did not know, Lord Hon and Lord Tamiyo. Once the bows were done, he sat down in the seat decorated with the Senju banner.

From the south, another envoy approached Kanazawa. A few banners were raised, revealing it to be a envoy of a clan. Any knowledgeable person would be able to recognise the sign of the Yamanaka clan, which spearheaded the group. Various other banners, smaller in size and design, were hoisted more in the rear of the envoy. Some of the dignitaries were located in carriages, while a group of mounted escort provided a ring of security.
Allowed to pass into the city, the envoy would continue to their goal - although their pace slowed due to their surroundings. The carriages and guards seemed rather simple, not attracting as much attention as the previous entries or likely later entries that would honour both Kanazawa as the Imperial gathering.

Arriving at the designated area, the Yamanaka envoy would greet the Uchiha with proper respect. Following both the written and unwritten rules of etiquette, the Yamanaka envoy would allow themselves to be guided to their lodge.
Hours later, Tsuru Yamanaka would be guided by some Uchiha servants. Closing on the hall, the Lady Yamanaka couldn't help to ponder already on how this gathering of Imperial clans would go. Hoping for a peaceful and smooth event, Tsuru caught herself not minding it there would be some kind of small disturbance - to give the whole political matter a bit more 'fire'.
Entering the hall where the meeting was going to take place, Lady Yamanaka made a deep bow when her eyes found the Empress.

"Your Majesty," Tsuru said, making a deep as elegant bow, "I am pleased to see you once more." Flashing a polite smile, Tsuru continued with various bows to the Uchiha host as present leaders of Great Clans.
Then the leader of the Yamanaka clan continued to her designated seat. Able to spot where everyone would be seated Tsuru already considered herself amused.

As the Omari escort rode into the city Taniya Omari looked out the window of her carriage quietly. Though at times it was hard to see out the window with the armed escort surrounding it. The unique appearance of their armor and the whirlpool emblazoned on the large shields of the mounted guard might have confused some as to the origin of the clan but the Omari spared no effort in making it clear to the city around them. Instead moving at pace through the city, guided by the Uchiha servants to their quarters. Once arrived the Omari regent dismounted and moved into the lodge to change into something more fitting of a meeting between some of the most powerful members of the Empire. Leaving behind her guards she was escorted to the meeting by another Uchiha servant, and when she was let into the large room Taniya made her way over to the Empress bowing to her. "It is an honor to meet you, your majesty. I am Taniya Omari, wife of Chu Omari. I would like to pass my personal thanks to you for the Imperial assistance provided to train our clan's troops. I hope that our men will serve the Empire well in the war." Straightening, she would move to her seat. She would pass her compliments and a gift to the Uchiha later.

Thankfully the journey from the Imperial Capital to Kanazawa was short, Shirori was never in the best of moods when she had to take long trips out to other lands at her behest, even if the war in the east was the reason for it.
Arriving on foot with a small complement of the Hyuuga's Rooks, Shirori found herself greeted by a servant whom lead her to their designated lodgings for the evening, this did well to improve the current sour mood she was in at the time.
"Get your rest, then move out to assist the current meetings security detail. I want eyes everywhere, no deed should go unnoticed tonight, not with the great leaders all present. Write a report on everything you see, I will read them once we return home and keep them aside for our dear lady."

After instructing the Rooks on what she expected of them, Shirori prepared herself for the meeting itself and upon arrival at entrance to the large hall, she took a moment to gather a level of composure that matched what has been expected of the Hyuuga, moreso what was expected of a representative to the clan.
She would walk in to join the others, initial priority laid with greeting the Empress, followed by Lord Uchiha, the host himself. Beginning with a formal bow of greeting.

"It's an honour to be in your company once more, Your Majesty, I hope this meeting provides ample opportunities for a prosperous future for the Empire." Shirori's smile was as polite as most others who had already greeted the Empress. After receiving acknowledgement, if any, of her greeting, her attention would shift to the Uchiha.
"And what a pleasant experience it is to see the Uchiha clan's fine city, Master Uchiha."

With greeting the two most important figures of the day out of the way, Shirori would proceed to her designated seat, finding herself between the Hanta and the Senju. Upon passing Lord Tamiyo she would offer a friendly smile, she would have to talk to him later as per her request. "Lady Hyuuga sends her best regards to you and yours, Lord Tamiyo. If you have the time after the meeting has concluded, she requested that I ask something of you if I got the chance." She would offer, giving a bow of the head as she stopped to pass the initial message. Regardless of his answer she would nod once more before moving to her seat.

"Master Senju. It's good to see you." He too would receive a similarly friendly smile as Shirori took her seat and greeted her new neighbour.

Sora Hanta arrived just after the Hyuuga representative had arrived, having spent a bit of extra time looking around the ship city. It had been a few years since he had gotten to visit the Uchiha lands, so the man did rather enjoy getting to see some of the sights while representing his father. His father had not been able to make it to the meeting, as he was still down with some disease. Which, unfortunately if his sister was to believed, did not look like something he would be recovering from. As heir, it was Sora's duty to step up and take over his father's role in things such as this clan meeting. As he came forwards, Sora gave a polite bow towards the Empress then towards Lord Uchiha, before straightening up with a friendly smile upon his features. "Your Grace, truly an honor to be in your presence, it is good to see that you are doing well. Lord Uchiha, its truly been wonderful getting to see your beautiful city." He said before his smile fell slightly. "Though I must apologize for my father's lack of presence. He has fallen ill, and asked that I take his place here. He sends his regards and deepest apologies for not being able to be here in person." The man said before moving over towards his seat.

He was to be seated between the Tamiyo and the Hyuuga it seemed, which worked fine with the young man. Looking towards the two on either side of himself, he offered a polite nod and friendly smile by way of greeting. "Lord Tamiyo, a pleasure to meet you. I'm Sora Hanta, I fear we haven't had a chance to meet before." He said pleasantly before looking towards the Hyuuga. "You must be representing the Hyuuga, a pleasure to meet you as well, Lady Hyuuga." He said before turning his attention back towards the bulk of the others in the hall for the meeting.

It was not a far travel for the Tokugawa envoy, so it allowed more leeway for Leo Tokugawa to deal with some business back at Vindex before his arrival at Kanazawa. The banner hanging in the sky notifying the populace that the Tokugawa clan had arrived. The small retinue of guards he brought would escort their Lord as far as they could before the Uchiha servants took over. Leo made sure to admire the sights as they traveled, it was after all one of the few times he has seen the city. Of course he's seen paintings depicting the place, from many different perspectives and he's read about it. However seeing the sights in front of him did more wonders than books could provide.

Entering the hall where today's meeting was being held, he saw a good portion of the clan's leaders had arrived. He looked at the seating and had a small smirk grow on his face. Approaching her majesty he gave his clans bow giving her both signs with a deep bow as he rose.
"Your Majesty. As always it's wonderful to see you, I do hope you are in good health." Leo said with a polite smile before the smile grew a tad as he gave a small bow to Hirasuke. "Good days to you as well Master Uchiha." Leo said before taking his seat next to Lord Tamiyo which caused Leo to look at him with a rather amused smile.
"How is the chair treating you Lord Tamiyo? I was told they used the best material possible to make it as comfortable as possible while also befitting your prestige." Leo said as he looked around the room. He truly loved the meetings, he never found himself not entertained by them.

Not long after the Tokugawa envoy came a much smaller one in the Riojin envoy. They have seen better days and Mitsunari rode on his own horse with only about five guards with one carrying their banner. Compared to the other leaders that showed up his entrance was far less noteworthy. Most people didn't even stop to look. Mitsunari looked around at Kanazawa and while he looked disinterested he was far from it. He respected what hard work could earn you in life and this was years and years of the Uchiha clan's hard work. Leaving his men behind at the lodgings, the Uchiha servants would escort him the rest of the way and to the spacious hall where the Leaders all awaited.

He would walk up to her Majesty and give her a deep bow. "Your Majesty, It's a pleasure to see you again." Mitsunari said giving a bow to the Uchiha representative before seeing where his seat was located which internally already started causing a headache as it was right next to the random new wife of Chu Omari. He however bite his tongue and simply took his seat, awaiting for the meeting to start.

The Arkos retinue approached the city, banners held high. Ferra's carriage was surrounded by Arkos warriors, dressed in their finest gear. She was not a huge fan of flashy displays, but Ferra had some specific goals to accomplish this meeting and it would not serve her well if the Arkos clan was looked over as being nothing more than a weak clan from the Rain. When they entered the city, Ferra looked out, admiring the detail. The Uchiha was a clan of great renown and she could see why.

Passing through the streets, they were led to their lodgings and Ferra took a small amount of time to freshen up and change. Leaving her guards behind, she was escorted to the large meeting hall, admiring the Uchiha craftsmanship once more. The escort left her at the entrance and Ferra nodded her thanks. Entering the building, she made her way towards the head of the table, taking note of everyone who had arrived. There were some familiar faces and several new ones. Approaching the Empress, Ferra bowed deeply. "Your Majesty, it is an honor as always." Turning her attention towards the Uchiha representative, she lowered her head respectfully as well. "Master Uchiha, thank you for allowing us in your lands, they are quite beautiful."

Turning back to where she had seen her clan crest, she noticed that Mitsunari was seated beside Chu's wife and had to suppress a slight grin. Hopefully this wouldn't end up like the past meeting between the two clans. Taking her seat, she nodded towards Mitsunari, offering him a smile. "Good to see you again commander."

The Nara clan approached much in the same way as the Yamanaka envoy had. Traveling through the streets, the delegation made their way towards the gathering place. Splitting from the majority of the envoy when they reached their lodgings, Shikamura Nara headed towards the meeting hall.

Approaching the head table, the Nara offered a deep bow towards Kiyomi and a shorter bow towards the Uchiha representative. "It is good to see you again, Your Majesty. I am glad to see you are in good health." Smiling, he turned and made his way to his chair. Nodding politely towards Tsuru Yamanaka, he took his seat.

Jora felt a mixture of excitement and uncertainty as he approached Kanazawa. He was excited about the opportunity to visit the Uchiha city that he had heard a lot about, but he was nervous as this was the first time he'd traveled to one of these meetings without Elena.The Hyuzu retinue was still quite large, though Jora felt out of place without his wife. She was the smart one after all… and the more level headed.

The Dragon Guard members that flanked the carriages would keep a close eye out to make sure there were no threats. Jora, on the other hand, found himself looking everywhere. The city was rather impressive and he took mental notes. There were a few ideas that sprung to mind on how he could help expand the Hyuzu compound using this as a template.

It did not take long for them to reach their lodgings and Jora exited the carriage, admiring the architecture as he made his way towards the building. Once inside, Jora changed into his formal garb and took a moment to collect himself. Heading towards the meeting hall with his escort, Jora tried to remember all of the items he wanted to bring up. He entered the building and approached Kiyomi, feeling his nerves steadying slightly. The young ruler had always made him feel welcome. Bowing deeply before returning to his full height, Jora smiled and then nodded politely towards Hirasuke. "The Hyuzu clan is honoured to be welcomed into your homelands Master Uchiha," Jora said, before turning to find his chair. Taking a seat, he glanced around, waiting for the meeting to start.

There was something bittersweet to close in the distance to the city, Ling thought to himself. He was aware of the city's history with that of his clan. Though it wasn't often mentioned, the Sarutobi had fought underneath the command of some Hons against the Uchiha. If that wasn't the reason for tension and either side to be wary, then it was the unfortunate series of events that the Sarutobi claimed the Uchiha to behind it. Such as the large force that had been vanquished, only to reveal some vague connection to the Uchiha clan.
For that particular reason, there was an abundance of Sarutobi guards that accompanied Ling and some other dignitaries.
Arriving into the city, the banner of the Sarutobi clan wouldn't garnish much of a response as some of the other Great Clans. But Ling was only grateful for that as his envoy continued to the closed off part of the city.
Once Ling was at the courtyard, the exchanges between him and the Uchiha were rather formal. There was a modicum of respect between the two parties. And luckily there wasn't much of a chance for hostility to grow as Ling's envoy was guided away to their respective lodge.
Entering the lodge, Ling didn't give much attention to the luxurious or grand design. His guards would start their work, inspecting the rooms and furniture for anything that could be pointed out that the Uchiha were spying on them.
After the lodge had been declared safe, Ling proceeded to prepare himself for the meeting.

Escorted to the hall where the meeting took place, Ling patiently waited as he recognised that the Lord of the Hyuzu clan made his entry. With his hands at his back, Ling then proceeded further. An elegant bow was made towards the Empress, only to be repeated towards the representative of the Uchiha clan.
Taking his place without saying a word, Ling would await the start of the meeting.

There was no splendid procession of guards and carriage when the representative of the Miyazato clan had made his way into Kanazawa. In fact, it hadn't even been on the same day that the rest of the clan leaders and dignitaries had arrived. Miyazato Moru had shown up nearly a week before the meeting had been scheduled to take place, and had opted to stay in a small inn for several days before the quarters provided by the Uchiha were ready for use. In that time he had spent much of his daylight exploring the lauded city of Kanazawa, getting lost in the Interior on several occasions he had found some of the best restaurants he had ever experienced in the back alleys and homely street vendors of the marketplaces. By night he spent much of his time at a small yet well tended shrine to the Way of Fire just North of the city that hugged the shores of Lake Yoshimata. It was a peaceful place he had been keyed in upon by a fellow traveling Priest he spent his nights searching for the light to guide him in the upcoming meeting and the courage of the Fire within him to make his small voice heard.

Having arrived to the meeting hall amongst the bustle of some of the most prominent leaders of the Empire, Moru had done a good job in remaining mostly indistinguishable as he made his way toward the Empress and the Uchiha, Hirasuke, once more not the clan leader but another Representative appointed to arbitrate in his place.

Ignoring many of the Clan Leaders and Representatives propensity to simply acknowledge the Empress, Moru made his way as close as he felt the guards would allow before bowing deeply to both the sitting heads of the meeting, "My Lady, thank you once more for the invitation." he said before turning and bowing equally to the Uchiha, "Master Uchiha, the accommodations provided are quite exquisite and far too much for a humble clan such as my own. My deepest thanks to the Lord and yourself." he said before parting from them both to take his place amongst the other dignitaries.


Returning the greetings with a smile or a small response, Kiyomi patiently waited for the representatives of the Imperial clans to gather and take their place. Slowly but steadily, the room was filled with dignitaries and leaders from their respective clans.
As it became clear that the meeting would start, Kiyomi stayed silent. Letting that silence expand and take brief hold of the room, the young monarch would place her elbows on the table as she folded her hands together on the table.
"I am filled with joy to see the clans being represented by such good and noble folk," Kiyomi started, a small smile returning to her lips, "By the good grace of the Uchiha clan, we find ourselves in the city of Kanazawa. A city that shines due to the fact she is able to enjoy excellent governance. This taken into fact, I want to represent a plan that I have been discussing with some of my advisors."

Raising her left hand, Kiyomi subtly gestured to one of the present Sworn Swords. The gesture would make the royal guard stride forward and unfold a large scroll. Revealing it was a large map of the western part of the Fire province. Though the borders of various clans were visible, a large part of the map was divided into small sectors.
"The crown holds much land in this area. Land that I can't govern effectively while being in Konohagakure. Though my plans for a city are still going strong, it won't make that much of a difference for many of these surrounding lands," Kiyomi paused as she let the words sink and allowing the silence to briefly return.
"I have considered various approaches. First, I decided to split this land into various fiefdoms. As you can see, there is quite a lot that I could give away. But who should I entrust with such a burden?" The question was followed by the young monarch smiling as her sharp gaze traveled over the present dignitaries.
"Some advisors stated that I should reward these fiefs to those who have proven themselves to the crown. But as you may expect, many have proven themselves loyal to the Empire. Only what of those that will prove their loyalty in the future?"
Once more Kiyomi paused. The oratory lessons she had received at the Homura University had been interesting but it was certainly more fun to apply them.
"After some careful consideration and various debates, I have decided the following." Gesturing to the map that the Sworn Sword held up, Kiyomi continued, "I shall reward these fiefs for a temporary ten years to clans or individuals that have proven themselves loyal to the crown and empire. These fiefs shall be entrusted to their governance with a low Imperial taxation being placed upon them. However," the soft voice that Kiyomi had spoken with would be briefly replaced by a sterner one, "those who are granted one of these fiefs will be required to govern well over them. Any abuse of the locals or my trust will be severely punished. If the ten years have passed, the fiefdom can be passed on the respective individual for another ten years. Or it will be passed on to another individual that has proven him or herself worthy."
Leaning back, Kiyomi would nod towards the Sworn Sword. The royal guard would fold the map carefully while taking his place once more. Thus allowing one of the dignitaries to speak up.

The first to rise would be none other than Takeo Tamiyo. A large smile adorned his lips as he made a respectful and oddly elegant bow, as far as he could, towards the young empress.
"A mighty fine idea, your Majesty! I think that it shall inspire many to do their best to be worthy of your praise and favour."
Takeo threw a look into the room, the smile present but a certain glint in his eyes that betrayed another emotion.Then he performed a subtle gesture to one dignitary within the room.
"If I stand correct, your Majesty, I would like to offer a nomination. I understand that the decision is yours to make but who else than the Riojin that have fought tooth and nail to preserve the provincial capital of the Rain. If you are to reward these fiefs to those brave and loyal, then who else than them deserving such a splendid reward for their services?"
Turning his attention back at the Empress, Takeo continued.
"I hope you will find my praise and suggestion worthy, your Majesty," Takeo stated as he would take a seat.

Hirasuke would hear out the opening of the Empress. Leaning back in his seat, the right hand of Shozo remained silent. The idea was appealing, he admitted silently, but he could see some troubles arising. When the Tamiyo rose and spoke, Hirasuke suspected that they would attempt to pronounce their loyalty and duty to the Empire. However, much to Hirasuke's amusement and surprise, the Tamiyo recommended the Riojin to receive such a temporary fiefdom.
Due to the numerous fiefs being south and close to the Uchiha heartlands, Hirasuke was aware of the land. It wasn't that well developed but it was valuable land nonetheless. Much more fertile and rich than what one could expect now in the Imperial Rain province.
"I have heard that Amegakure has experienced quite some struggles," Hirasuke began without rising. A polite smile seemed to be plastered on his lips, every time that the man paused.
"I applaud Master Riojin for the stalwart defence against those who wish to see the peace and prosperity of the Empire gone."

Once more, Hirasuke would pause as various servants entered the room. They would offer refreshments in the forms of cold and warm beverages, as some food in small quantities. Waiting for the servants to be done, Hirasuke continued.
"But I do fear that I need to say that we should be careful with nominations. Not to mention, doesn't the act of fulfilling one's duty already serve as a reward? If one is loyal to her Majesty, that is."

Listening to the topic that rose, Resu immediately thought of how beneficial having such fief under the watch of anyone would benefit whoever is watching. It served as even further acknowledgement of the Empress towards the clans that would have the fiefs under them. He then waited patiently, watching as the Tamiyo decided to nominate one of the rain clans to receive a fiefdom, before the Uchiha representative spoke up, giving his own thoughts on how the Riojin acted, along with his own thought on nominations and also gave what felt to Resu as a bit of a kiss up remark.

"It is an excellent idea in order to help develop the area," he began, looking around for a moment "But I do have to wonder one thing. Receiving such a nomination from your majesty is a great honour, certainly, but what if the individual nominee does not feel they are prepared to take on such a task?" Resu turned to look towards Kiyomi "I am bringing this up because not every individual may feel they are ready to step into that kind of role and responsibility. When it comes to the clans being given fiefdoms, I am certain we could all think of capable men and women from our clans to lead a fiefdom. Perhaps, if the individuals feel they are not prepared, they could be assigned to another person who was offered to lead a fiefdom, to help them understand things better and mentor them."

The next to respond would be the representative of the Sarutobi clan. Ling had taken up a mug with a cold beverage, a tad saddened that there wasn't any Tokugawa alcohol being served. It would have certainly been quite amusing and delicious, after a long trek.
Staying silent as the Tamiyo and Uchiha spoke up, Ling frowned slightly when the Senju began. Taking a sip, Ling patiently awaited for the Senju to be done.
"Your words make me think, mister Senju," Ling began, his tone neutral, "whether you question if her Majesty is capable of knowing if the respective individual is ready or not to be entrusted with such a fiefdom."
Taking another sip of his drink, the Sarutobi had a ghost of a smile presented on his features.
"Perhaps we could arrange for some people to help yours, in case they don't know how to build farms and the like? You know, to improve said fief and govern it. Properly, that is."

As the meeting was underway he eagerly listened as Kiyomi spoke of the land to the west of his borders and even already had ideas in his mind on how that could work out. Yet the Tokugawa were already prosperous, they didn't need a fiefdom for their hard work and loyalty. Sure more income was always nice, but not needed in their case. So when Lord Tamiyo suggested the Riojin, it caught even him off guard as his eyebrows rose as he looked at the man to his left. He was hoping this would lead to something as the Uchiha wanted to remind everyone that doing their duty was reward in of itself which he smiled at and then the next one spoke.

The Senju spoke and it was…. to nice. His smile diminished a bit as the man spoke about helping if the representative wasn't ready. Which defeated the purpose as Ling would point out after the Senju was done speaking. What came next made him cough a bit as he was drinking and didn't expect Ling to just throw that right out there so casually. Leo covered his mouth to quiet the coughing but mostly to hide the shit eating grin on his face. He quickly composed himself and would rise from his seat.

"While I have to say the sentiment is touch Mister Senju. Her Majesty is capable of knowing whose worthy. I also must agree with Lord Tamiyo. The Riojin certainly have held their ground in Amegakure despite the constant pressure. Yet don't be modest Lord Tamiyo. I also believe you would help make the economy grow quickly. You have certainly shown you are a capable leader to make your dynasty what it is today. So I'd like to nominate Lord Tamiyo." Leo would state all while smiling and giving everyone perfect eye contact before sitting back down.

Tsuru accepted the offer of some tea, while she paid attention to the ongoing exchanges. In truth, she cared little for the remarks between the Taika lords and representatives. In a way, it just showed how fractured they were. The only matter that did surprise and slightly confused the lady of the Yamanaka was the Tamiyo bringing forth the Rioijn. A most curious move, she mused to herself as she took a sip of her mint tea.
As the Tokugawa spoke up, it became clear that nominations would start to become a thing. A silly affair, Tsuru thought to herself as she waited. Once Leo Tokugawa was done, Tsuru would rise.
"A splendid idea, your Majesty," Tsuru flashed a friendly smile, "I can only hope that one day, the Yamanaka can prove themselves worthy of your favour."
That said, the Yamanaka leader would sit down without feeling a further need to bring up any nominees. It was highly unlikely, she thought to herself, that the empress would just accept anyone brought forward. Unless some specific people likely would suggest them, Tsuru mused amused as she threw a subtle glance at the person sitting at Kiyomi's right.

The initial direction of the meeting seemed to become clear almost immediately as the Empress began her talk on the land to be distributed. Raising an eyebrow at the proposal as the other dignitaries began to apparently back nominations to the fiefdoms Moru began to weigh in his minds the options available to him. To back another clan, and specifically to back the most likely to win would surely gain him a favor or two from the clan in question, even if the clan didn't win the nomination it would surely still be somewhat indebted to the Miyazato's willingness to see their success. He brought a hand to the bridge of his nose as the nominations began to differ and a clear divide became apparent in the room. The Tamiyo Daimyo had decided to back the Riojin, a smaller clan out of the Rain for the fief while the Sarutobi offered a non-committal suggestion of helping whoever won and the Tokugawa had admittedly surprised Moru with their suggestion of the Tamiyo even after their nominee had nominated another clan.

He mused internally at the fact that both the Sarutobi and the Senju had made themselves neither friends nor enemies amongst the group with their apparent refusal to nominate anyone while also managing to appear somewhat arrogant to all involved in offering a helping hand in case those nominated were simply incompetent baffoons.

The Uchiha representative had been an interesting one, as non-committal as the Senju and Sarutobi had been, but far more on the nose of opposing the Riojin nomination rather than supporting them. Moru wondered for a moment whether the Uchiha already had a nomination in mind, or if the thought of smaller clan such as the Riojin being in charge was simply unthinkable to them.

Though the Tokugawa nomination was rather unexpected to Moru and what he could only imagine to the Tamiyo as well, he did see the reason in it. The Tamiyo were well proven administrators, bringing an unprecedented age of prosperity to the River Province for as long as they had ruled. Though the Tamiyo were rather far removed from the proposed locations of the fiefdoms, and the distance itself would pose a rather interesting challenge in governing if the Tamiyo were to be granted the titles.

Taking a drink from the tea provided, Moru wiped the sweat from his palms on his pants and stood when he was sure no one else was going to for the time being. "The Miyazato would like to nominate," he eyed the gathered Lords and representatives and prayed that he wasn't about to back the wrong horse in this race, "The Miyazato Clan."

"The Miyazato have proven themselves loyal," Zakito said. His gaze locked on the Miyazato representative.

If anything, Zakito was well aware of the political game that was unfolding in front of them. During his tenure as Hokage, he had witnessed and dealt with various power blocs himself. The mere fact was that the play between clans regarding diplomacy, favours and politics wasn't solid. It was ever shifting and changing, to the whims and deals made between those clans.
What further made Zakito silent until this point was the mere fact on how the clans had reacted. Nowhere had Kiyomi offered the suggestion that they could make nominees. Which still made her have the final word, regardless if clans banded together to 'coerce' her. That being itself already a dangerous game, Zakito wagered, if they didn't take into consideration that the Empress had a strong will of her own. One that didn't bend or break that easily. Something he had experienced firsthand.
But now? Zakito couldn't deny that he was most intrigued by the political play and approach of various clans. The interesting proposal of the Tamiyo and Tokugawa hinted to a new power block. One that didn't sit too well with Zakito. Yet, he had also noticed that the subtle play of the Yamanaka had gone noticed - the attention largely being claimed by the daring or interesting suggestions. Interesting enough, both the Sarutobi and Uchiha weren't afraid to oppose some of the others. To the point that Zakito understood the jab that Ling flung at the Senju representative.
"The Miyazato have provided various individuals that have provided their loyalty to the realm, your Majesty. May I remind you of Nozaki Miyazato?" Zakito continued, breaking his gaze to throw a look at the monarch to his side. "But of course, the final say is yours, your Majesty."

Taking in a moment to consider another move, Zakito wondered how the room was divided further. He had already a strong hunch which other power blocs existed underneath the subtle surface of the polite diplomacy that was exchanged in the room.
"If your Majesty would like to know my opinion," Zakito began as he made a subtle gesture to a certain figure, "I think that some of the Yakimara do have various legitimate claims to the lands to their north." Pausing, Zakito decided to phrase something in Yakimara.
"Ut incepit fidelis sic permanet," the man stated before he shifted back to Taika. "However, do know that I support your choices, your Majesty."

The topic caught Ferra off guard. It was an interesting one and quite unexpected. Before she had an opportunity to respond, however, the other clan leaders began to speak. It didn't take long for the politics to kick in as the clans traded nominations back and forth, while some simply chose to show their support or disapproval of the others. The Empress had never specifically asked for nominations, but that did not seem to stop most clans from wanting to have their say. At the moment, Ferra was torn. The potential of these fiefdoms fit right in with her plans, but she also did not believe that trying to stake her own claim was the right way of going about things.

Taking a moment after Zakito had spoken, Ferra glanced around and then stood. "I fear we may be missing the point here." she began, glancing towards Kiyomi before looking around at the other leaders and representatives, "I don't imagine the intention with these fiefdoms is to have them handed out to whomever asks nicest, or whomever receives the most support from the other clans. Rather I believe this would be the best opportunity to begin rewarding based on merit." Pausing for a moment, Ferra really wished she had some liquid courage right now. This was always going to be the hard part, and the part she imagined would cause the most backlash amongst the other clans.

"Master Uchiha was right in saying that service is our reward. Though that is much easier to say for those who have already been rewarded for their previous deeds, for those who are accustomed to certain comforts." Taking a breath, she continued, "Not every clan was able to stake their claim through conquest and spilt blood. We aren't in the time of warring clans anymore, however. And while some are still able to gain land and influence over others via displays of force or negotiations, it has become increasingly difficult for most clans to expand past their current limitations. This may help to keep things somewhat under control, but it does limit the ability of many to contribute more to the growth of the Empire." Turning back to Kiyomi, Ferra continued. "In order to ensure this Empire continues to prosper, it is important for us to foster an environment that does not support stagnancy. We should be encouraging every single clan to do all that they can, with all the resources they can afford."

She began looking around the room once more, looking at each leader and representative in turn. "Great or small, it doesn't matter. What should matter is what we're all doing to contribute to the Empire. A smaller clan who wishes to do more should be allowed the opportunity, not cast aside simply because they lack the resources of a larger clan that chooses to do only the bare minimum. My own clan, for example, has a desire to improve agriculture within the Rain so that we can increase our output and what we're able to provide back to the Empire. We lack the resources to put many of our plans and designs into action however, and we do not have the support of many of the larger clans due to the perception that we're simply insignificant. Should we have been provided with access to the same resources that those clans have, I can assure you that the Arkos would be doing everything possible to devote those resources to the betterment of the Empire."

As she finished, she took another breath before a final thought came to her and she added, "And I'd encourage all those who are able to do more to do so. Opportunity should be earned by merit and what each clan is doing currently to help the Empire prosper, rather than relying simply on what was done in the past." Retaking her seat, Ferra folded her arms across her chest. Now to see how many enemies she'd just made for herself…

The first topic for discussion was an interesting one at the very least, with the Empress handing out fiefdoms to clans that deserve them, Shirori could already imagine that several people here were chomping at the bit to stake a claim.
Yet the discussions mostly shifted towards nominations for this clan or that in order to presumably hide their own desire for said land. Only the Miyazato and the Arkos seemed willing to put themselves forward for these plots of land. A thin smile lingered at these developments for a moment before Ferra finished her proposal and sat down.

And so she would stand to take the stage herself, else those around her would think she was merely here to sit there and smile. "Both the suggestions of nominating another clan that you feel deserving like Lord Tamiyo has made a fine example of. And Inversely Lady Arkos' suggestion of making your own claim for these fiefdoms due to recent merit and your own contributions and ambitions. I would personally support Lady Arkos in her suggestion, as it's more likely to allow clans that have the potential for something great, yet lack the present means due to a lack of land or a lack of resources. It gives them a chance to show what they're capable of given a larger canvas to work from and access to more resources to put to use, and if they squander the opportunity then you know who not to put your trust in with issues such as these in the future."

With that done Shirori would sit herself down.
 
Imperial Gathering - 2
[ Empire of Akino | Kanazawa, Uchiha Heartlands ]
[ An Imperial gathering has been organised, in the city of Kanazawa. Honouring their oath to the crown, the Imperial clans flock to the city where they are generously welcomed by the Uchiha clan - who have the honours of organising the meeting. The Gathering is a special occasion for the Imperial clans to muster together and discuss various topics. Or bring suggestions to the crown. As expected, the event is woven with intrigue from the participants as backdoor deals and alliances have been forged. Rivals plotting to outdo the other or schemes to thwart the plans of others. ]

[A collab between the Akinian Clans ]





Mitsunari has dealt with politics before, it was a lot of games for the most part hence why he usually left it to his brother to deal with these meetings. Yet a lot has changed to where he no longer could rely on Sintra. Still he understood the meetings to a point, yet the Tamiyo nominating him was certainly a surprise mostly with the Tokugawa supporting that choice. Other leaders would then speak to where he watched in silence as others brought up their points and choices. Some saying service was its own reward. Some not wanting the land to fall into the Great Clans hands. Some even hoping they would one day prove worthy of Kiyomi's favor.

Ferra would go on to say the smaller clans just needed that stepping stone to prove that they could do just as much as a Great Clan could, and that working to benefit the empire should be all their goals and not simply wanting the land simply to satisfy their own greed. At least that's what he got from that, it was more than what he normally heard from her. So when she sat down he gave a smile and nod, while the Hyuuga would speak supporting Ferra's words. When the Hyuuga representative sat down he would stand up and clear his throat.

"First I'd like to thank Lord Tamiyo for his kind words. I will always strive to see Amegakure continue to stand. Yet I also would like to say I am not a good choice. I have made many mistakes during my job as the Jounin Commander. I have failed to judge situations properly, which has in turn led Amegakure to some of its situations." He cleared his throat again before resuming to speak. Somehow this was more terrifying to him than actual combat.
"Due to my own lapse in judgement. I let the Jinchuriki get kidnapped. I thought her leader to be capable in leading and would watch her, yet I should have done extra precautions when that failed. I should have been more stern in the defenses when Amegakure had its first incident. In doing so I only ended up making it worse when I exposed the people to what they were mad about. So for those failures I would like to apologise to you, your Majesty. Yet I will continue to strive and make sure Amegakure keeps standing tall, no matter how many times or how hard it gets hit." with that said Mitsunari sat back down and mentally sighed. How could meetings make him want a smoke more than almost being stabbed by your own rioting citizens?

Taniya watched with bemusement as the suggestion was proposed for the Riojin to be given land. Certainly, they had defended the city, but their own compound was within the limits of such a place was it not? It was tantamount to self defense to protect the citizens and assist the garrison. While it may have been noble, she did not think it was fair to just hand them such a province based off of this. Not to mention the near personal insult at her husband. There were always ways to contribute to the Empire, be it through money, manpower, or productive enterprises, and none had been more active in the Rain then the Omari and their vassals to provide this. In fact, the suggestion by the Arkos to give it to those who showed the most merit made sense. She remained composed throughout all the participants speaking however, and politely waited until Mitsunari was finished. There was one however who had assisted the Omari in the past, and were worth supporting. Folding her hands, Taniya then spoke. "The Omari support giving one of the fiefs to the Miyazato." When she finished, she took a small sip of the hot tea in front of her.

Shikamura listened with keen interest as the topic was discussed. Sipping his tea in a relaxed fashion, the Nara was curious about Zakito's support. They held no bad blood with the Hons but it was an interesting decision nevertheless. Making a note of it, Shikamura turned his attention back to the next speaker. He found his curiosity piqued yet again, however, as the Arkos clan leader began speaking. She proposed something that had the potential to cause quite a stir. Depending on how things went, this could serve the Nara's plans quite well. Glancing around at the others in the room, Shikamura tried to gauge how the others were reacting to the woman's words.

When Ferra had returned to her seat, Shikamura took another sip of his tea, continuing to ponder. The other speakers took their turn and the Nara waited patiently before standing. "The Nara clan will happily support whichever clans are selected for these positions." The man said, looking at Kiyomi and nodding politely before returning to his seat.

"And what did the Miyazato do to earn such a reward?"
Takeo frowned before his lips even parted. "Master Uchiha, you speak of our services being rewarded with the honour to serve her Majesty. I can't agree more with those words. But sacrifices have been made. Dire ones. While we sit here and can enjoy peace, Amegakure stands because of the actions of Lord Rioijn."
Throwing a look around, Takeo's frown would knit further on his brow. "Most of you nominate yourself or another as if you have the right to do so. What sacrifices have you made to prove your loyalty to the Crown? To the people? What losses have you endured with pride, knowing that you've served the Empire?"

The frown would shift into visible disappointment. "Her Majesty offers us a chance. One that is to reward our loyalty and feats. Not to be brought before her with some nomination," Takeo scoffed, loudly enough to make it audible for most. "Your Majesty, please, do forgive this horrible display of avarice and misguidance. I hope that your mood hasn't suffered or else I will see to it that a smile shall appear. A grand festival in your honour in Hanaguro, perhaps?"
Having that said, Takeo hoped that the foolish notion of the Arkos clan would be forgotten and left alone. The mere idea that the small clans would be given more of a chance didn't seem right. Moreso when he couldn't see why they hadn't then tried harder in the past to consolidate or expand their powerbase.

Sora watched the meeting go about with a fair amount of amusement. Particularly once people started recommending who should receive the land, and most certainly once Ferra stood up and made her opinion known. To her credit, Sora much found himself in agreement with what he was picking up she had meant. Though when the Tamiyo next to him seemed to take her idea and find issue in it, Sora was truly caught off guard. Why shouldn't the clans that were putting in the most of their resources be rewarded? Clans that if they had more to provide to the empire, they would? He was genuinely confused as he looked towards the man, though he kept a neutral expression. The man actually almost laughed when the Tamiyo turned and started to to apologize to the empress over what was happening. That much, he very much wished was intended to be comedic. Although he knew for certain that it wasn't meant as that.

After the Tamiyo sat down, the Hanta took that as his chance to offer his views on the subject. After all, that was what these meetings were for, no? Although he truly wished it was a lot less daunting a task to speak in front of all these clans. "I do believe that Lady Arkos makes a fair point." He began, looking towards the Arkos then towards the Empress. "Smaller clans might not have resources to put into effect the exact impact of those of us who simply have more resources." He said calmly, though inside he was terrified of that one small misstep that could be political suicide. "With this in mind, I would think that the Miyazato have proven their loyalty to be worthy of these fiefdoms." The man said, before finally sitting back down as his heart pounded bit a harder than he thought it should. How his father had routinely dealt with these meetings was far beyond Sora at this point...

"I believe that is up to the Empress to decide, master Hanta," Hirasuke said. His tone was firm as he frowned at the Hanta. "All of us have proven our worth. Or continuing to do so," the Uchiha paused as he wondered for a moment why the Hanta even decided to support the Miyazato. Let alone supporting the idea of the Arkos.
Briefly, Hirasuke wondered about something. Tearing his gaze from the Hanta, he decided to not waste more thoughts on the Hanta. It seemed that there was no need to uphold old alliances. Certainly not with more profitable ones providing themselves.
Much like before, Hirasuke wouldn't stand. He knew who he spoke for and people would listen.
"Lord Tamiyo's words speak of sacrifices. We all have suffered at the terror of war. We all have bled for this realm to prosper. Regardless of what name it carried before," Hirasuke flashed a polite smile and lowered his head to Kiyomi briefly, before he continued, "but what makes one clan's life worth more than the other? Such matters aren't objective. It is also for this reason that I wish to state that I don't think that Miss Arkos idea is a good one."

Lowering his head briefly as a gesture of politeness and respect, Hirasuke continued, "It is true that small clans can't expand or mettle with the likes of clans that have gained success in the past. Successes that were won with the desire to do so. I mean no disrespect but if the Arkos clan desire to expand, then what Her Majesty offers should suffice." Throwing a look at those who had voiced their agreement with the Arkos, Hirasuke spoke further, "I do dare to hope that we all do our part to contribute to the Empire. Both for our own people and the betterment of the Empire. Let the Empress thus decide who is worthy to be rewarded."

Frowning slightly upon hearing the words of the Hanta backing the Arkos plan, Zakito softly clicked his tongue when the Hanta announced its support for the Miyazato to be rewarded. More so when the Hanta dared to state that the Miyazato had proven their loyalty.
The words of Hirasuke were something that Zakito could agree with. And while he had agreed with something before, this new shift forced his own hand. Regardless of how the relations would follow.
"Master Uchiha speaks truly," Zakito began as he also didn't rise up, "for my own kin are currently fighting for the future of the Empire. I shall not speak of the sacrifices and lives that my clan or kin lost in the past. But I will renounce my support for the Miyazato. I agree with what Master Uchiha has stated." The words were spoken with a tone of respect as Zakito barely shot a glance at the Miyazato representative.
"For it is only fair to say that the Empress should judge on who is worthy of a fief. May her judgement be enlightening as she offers respite from our losses and efforts with her blessing."

Resu glanced towards the Sarutobi representative as he made his remark, before listening to the others who spoke up about the matter at hand. Whether it was to show support or not, it seemed as though the topic had helped show how some things were. After Lord Hon expressed his opinion yet again, the Senju representative spoke up "If the Senju farmers require aid, then I will make sure to ask those who know the field, mister Sarutobi. And Lord Tokugawa, I believe you misheard me. I was not suggesting that her Majesty can't determine who is worthy. I was trying to suggest that not everyone can think of themselves as ready to lead on every aspect there is. A person from a military background may be well suited for that background, but they may think of themselves as poorly prepared to handle more economical issues that may rise with running lands. My suggestion was to help better show how they will be capable of taking on any aspect of leadership, but may simply need someone to help guide them at the beginning, in regards to the aspects they do not fully comprehend yet. And not every individual chosen has to come from a clan where they will have such support." He said, keeping his attention mostly on the Sarutobi representative and Lord Tokugawa.

Resu turned to look at the others "Now, I stand on the same stance as Master Uchiha and Lord Hon when it comes to who should receive any of the fiefs. It is up to the Empress to elect who is worthy, with her wisdom and experience. And we must keep performing our best, for both our clans and our empire, regardless of who ends up receiving the fiefs or what resources are at your disposal. That is the way to prove yourself, no other." As he finished speaking, he glanced back towards the Sarutobi representative, wondering if the man would decide to speak up against what he had to say once more.

As Resu threw a glance at Ling, the Sarutobi representative was just enjoying his drink. Lowering the mug from his lips, a soft sigh escaped the Sarutobi. Clearly enjoying the warmth that his beverage gave him, Ling was the first to respond.
"Of course, mister Senju. We tend to have amazing farms and know how to manage them," Ling replied, flashing a polite smile at the Senju. If anything, Ling was missing a certain someone in these meetings. The stoic bastard that Shozo Uchiha was would have been a great mixture to this event. Pushing the thought away, Ling continued.
"I am sure that these fiefs aren't without aid, Senju. Someone from a military background isn't as oblivious as you may think. Neither someone who has been focused on trading his entire life. Not to mention that I reckon these fiefs have been administered by the Imperial crown for a bit. And before them, the Fire Daimyo. Only an idiot would give bait and no rod to a subordinate to fish. But," shrugging lightly Ling flashed another smile, "I suppose you Senju could use a military mind or two. Defending farmers is essential."

Finishing his attention on the Senju, Ling had already considered what side he should pick. There were some interesting developments revealing themselves. Some old alliances seemed to shift and crack, while new ones were showing. The fact was, however, that he knew that a stance could be taken. One to either look down on those who nominated others or try to voice support.
Deciding to stay silent on it, Ling would be quite curious to the conclusion of the topic.

Jora listened as the leaders and representatives took turns speaking. It was clear emotions were running a little high in the hall. After the Arkos clan leader had spoken, things had taken a bit of a shift. A couple of the clans supported Ferra's proposed idea, while some of the larger clans appeared to be vehemently against it. Jora could see a few issues with the idea, but he understood the concept and didn't necessarily disagree with it. Rewarding clans who made larger efforts to help the Empire was definitely one way to inspire more clans to contribute.
"Unless I'm mistaken, Lady Arkos' idea was not limited to how many bodies each clan can offer in the name of the Empire," Jora stated, glancing towards the Uchiha representative. He'd put extra emphasis on Ferra's title as it appeared the Uchiha representative had either forgotten it, or was purposefully choosing to use the lesser honorific in a display of disrespect. A fact that Jora found even pettier considering the Uchiha claimed to mean no disrespect just seconds later. The disdain between clans only grew as the Senju and Sarutobi clans continued their backhanded comments towards each other. Trying his best to keep his frustration in check, Jora took a moment's pause before continuing. "Nevertheless, I agree that this decision should belong with Her Majesty and only Her Majesty." Glancing at Kiyomi, the Hyuzu hoped they'd be able to move past this topic without any of the clans devolving further into petty insults.

Kiyomi had been listening and watching how the clans responded. Enjoying a cold beverage, she didn't say anything about the fact that the clans started to nominate this or that clan. Her words hadn't given any inclination that she desired it but nonetheless, it had happened. And truthfully? She was more than okay with it.
The backing that the clans performed allowed Kiyomi to gain an insight into some alliances. A few were known to her, a few others she had guessed but that didn't stop her from being surprised.
Before more clans would be able to react to Lord Hyuzu's words, Kiyomi placed down her mug and raised a hand. A simple gesture that would signal the prohibition of anyone speaking.
Allowing the silence to persist for a moment, Kiyomi glanced at the present dignitaries from each clan before she spoke.
"I indeed have the say on who deserves what. It is mine to give to those who have proven both loyal and worthy," Kiyomi began, keeping her voice soft and the pace normal. "However, I do appreciate that ideas and suggestions are brought forward. For it is nearly impossible for me to gauge who is worthy. And it would pain me to know that I can't show appreciation to those who deserve it."

Her gaze fell first upon the Miyazato representative.
"Mister Miyazato," Kiyomi flashed a polite smile, "I have the honour of working with a relative of yours. The Lord Admiral is a delight to cooperate with. His honesty and expertise have schooled me much more than I could have imagined. Top on that, I have the brief pleasure to have met and cooperate with another relative of yours. Furthermore, I can appreciate a certain sense of boldness. Your clan will receive a fief."
The next person that would catch Kiyomi's attention was the lord of the Riojin clan.
"You are most humble, Lord Riojin. For you to take more blame on yourself than you truly should. You are forgiven by me. I am grateful that you've helped to restore order to the Rain province." Pausing, Kiyomi tapped softly against the table as if she had to calculate something. "Naturally, your clan is given the reward to govern one of these fiefs. I hope that this can offer some respite for what your clan had to suffer. And to reward their services during the dark days that Amegakure had to experience."
Turning her attention to the Yamanaka, Kiyomi pondered quickly on something. "Lady Yamanaka, the same goes for you. I hope that I can entrust a fief to your people. I am looking forward to seeing how it will flourish."
Done with her sentence, Kiyomi would pick up her mug and take a sip. The motion begins slowly, both to make a point and simply cause the young monarch to delighted herself in letting them wait.


A satisfied sigh escaped Kiyomi's lips as she placed the mug down.
"My gratitude to your people, Master Uchiha. Where was I? Ah yes," Kiyomi turned her attention to Ferra Arkos. "Lady Arkos, your words have piqued interest. I can imagine that not all will agree with your suggestion, merely for reasons of their own. Colour me interested, however," a smile dawned on Kiyomi's lips as she leaned back in her comfortable seat, "you will receive a fief as well. If you can demonstrate that your motivation is great enough, we will talk further about your alteration today. But if it isn't? Then I will be most displeased."
The brief glance that the young monarch gave would place an emphasis on what she thought on being displeased. Blinking, the expression melted away and gave way for one that seemed as if Kiyomi nearly forgot something.
"Ah, I almost forgot. How stupid," Kiyomi snorted as she threw a look over her shoulder towards the only present Scholae in the room. "Lord Nimatsu has served me for a long time. Dutiful and loyal. Before and after my ascension to the Akinian throne. For that, I will reward the Nimatsu clan with two fiefs. As a show of my gratitude to the Nimatsu clan," flashing a smile, Kiyomi turned back to the leaders and representatives of the clans at the table. "Now that is discussed," Kiyomi clapped her hands together as if she had to awaken the people at the table, "I suggest that one of you take the stage."

[/spoiler[
 
Clans, Vassals, and Medicine

[ Republic of the Water Country | Kirigakure ]​
[ Jirou Kanbe ]​


Arriving at his office in the late afternoon, Jirou looked at the two guards that were beside the door before entering. Both men followed him inside and closed the door behind them as Jirou went and sat down by his desk. It has been a long few days, arranging meetings with certain clans and electing to go meet them at their compounds. He figured it might help settle things, and while it felt it helped with the Mizuno, he wasn't certain about the Hayashi.

For the Mizuno, it was a rather simple deal. They wanted to have influence in the government and over the Honey country. With the prestige the clan made and the outpost they held in the Honey, both made sense. And he wanted to ensure the biggest and most influential clan wouldn't step up and try to do anything against him. Even if they were not the ones who orchestrated the previous revolution, they still ended up joining it when things seemed to be right for them. He ended up giving the clan what they desired in order to keep them calm.

The Hayashi deal felt like it could've been relatively simple at first, but the thought of how things ended up slightly frustrated Jirou. Like the Mizuno, they wanted influence in the government, but they set their eyes on the military side of the government. But unlike the Mizuno, Jirou desired for the Hayashi to provide better quality gear for the Shinobi corps.
While he had no definitive proof, he felt as though the Hayashi might've caught wind of the fact he also approached the Mizuno, as they also demanded two islands to govern, fully under the Hayashi. He tried to negotiate to at least receive reports on how things would be, but they essentially told him to shove it. It would be theirs, no reports or anything. It took some more talks, but Jirou ended up securing a deal with the Hayashi as well. They were given what they wanted, including a couple of military offices and influence in the military, the two islands they demanded, and payments for the gear that would be provided.

Leaning back in his chair, Jirou sighed and shook his head slightly. He could've certainly handled things better. But now, there were more matters to look at. Straightening himself in his seat, he whistled and gestured to one of the men in the room to go call for 3 soldiers. He then started writing something down on a paper, until the three soldiers arrived in his room. They waited patiently until he looked up at them.

"You," He pointed at one of them, gesturing for the soldier to come closer "You will take several other soldiers with you and head to the island of Nagi. Come back with a report on how things are there. You," He pointed at the soldier next to the first "Same instructions, only head to O'zu. Both of you, depart as soon as possible." Jirou then waited to see both men leave before looking at the third soldier "You are to head to the Honey country with one of the ships, write down a report and then come back here, but make sure the soldiers that will accompany you remain in the Honey, to increase the security there."

The soldier nodded before leaving the room as well. Hopefully, this would let him gain some knowledge on how matters are in the vassals, and if he could do anything to make the vassals become loyal to him. And keeping the soldiers in the Honey may already help make him appear as someone concerned for their wellbeing, with the fighting that went on in the eastern fronts.

Standing up from his chair, Jirou started putting some documents in their appropriate drawers, when a knock was heard on the door "Enter." he said, before watching another man enter his office. He knew the soldier was assigned to the medical team that were testing the medicine, to ensure it was secure and good "S-sir!" He quickly saluted "The medicine was deemed ready! It was fully tested and everything checks out, sir!" He spoke, appearing to be somewhat out of breath.

"Have you informed Takeshi Shun yet?"
"We have a man on route to inform the Jounin Commander now, sir!"
While he wasn't too pleased that his instructions to the letter, Jirou simply nodded "Update receieved. You are to report to the services of Takeshi Shun and help with his distribution operation.
"Yes sir!"

The soldier quickly left the office, and Jirou looked down at the open drawer and the document at his hand. At the end of the long week, he at least had one bit of good news. The Medicine was ready.
 
Operation: Dreadful Taste
[ Republic of Water | Kirigakure - Republican capital ]
[ Team Kukiko | A collab done between @Lilly , @Lesli , @Celestial Scorpio , @Sakayanagi Selko and @Gerontis ]
[ The team receives the mission to venture into the quarantine zone. It becomes quickly clear that the team is anything but excited to venture into the closed of districts of South Kirigakure. As they move out on the planned route to bring supplies to the quarantined populace, the team encounters some problems ]



"You guys, pull the cart over here." Karuko ordered, his voice stern. Waiting for the genin to start guiding and escorting the cart over, Karuko wanted to say something. His lips parted but another sound resonated harshly through the air.
A scream penetrated the air from a nearby building. Only followed quickly by another, indicating that the origin was of a young person and in a lot of distress.
"Fuck," Karuko mumbled as he turned his head to the distinct building where the sound had came from.
"Stay near and get ready to barge in," he ordered as he quickly moved to the wall - taking a position to the right of the building's front door.

Neime tried to calm herself. The locals were certainly not overstepping any boundaries and even seemed to shy away due to their own conditions. It made the Hayashi feel pity towards them, though she wouldn't dare to portray it. Doing as she was ordered throughout the mission, the eyes of Neime narrowed when Karuko wanted to investigate what seemed to be a corpse.
Once more, the body of the Hayashi started to strain as she had to fight against the instinct to move away. To get back into an area where she wouldn't be likely infected by whatever was causing people to sprout crystal shards and the like.
As the order came from Karuko to bring the cart over, Neime would not hesitate to place her hands at the back of the cart. Starting to push to initiate the donkey to get moving, she would remain silent. Both to stay alert for future orders from Karuko as to whatever might have caught the jounin's interest.

Once the cart was in the desired position, Neime remained at her spot. Turning her head, she tried to search for whoever could have left the corpse on the filthy street. As a scream split the tension, Neime reacted as Karuko ordered.
Placing herself to the left of the front door, she would place her eyes on Karuko. A subtle nod was given to give emphasis that she was ready.

Bashira gradually began to feel slightly more comfortable with their mission as they handed out their supplies to the locals in the quarantine zone. She even went so far as to smile at one or two of them encouragingly. Her comfort was short lived as they came across a body with blood pooling out and around his body, luckily there was no sign of crystals but it didn't mean he wasn't infected. As Karuko gave the order to cover the cart with the sheet she had to focus on keeping her hands from shaking as she went to fasten the sheet over the cart and directed the donkey over to where they were ordered to. Shira looked at Neime and then to Aito before looking back to Karuko for further orders. There was about two seconds where she was beginning to feel less fearful but that too was short lived as a piercing scream echoed through the streets. Her hands were definitely shaking now as Karuko ordered to prepare to barge in. Her trembling hands wandered to where her senbon were and fingered a few of them, ready to do whatever was needed of them.

Aito remained calm as they went from area to area. The conditions would go from bad to worse. Seeing the crystals consuming the people was unsettling, but he didn't say anything as they made their rounds. That was until the dead body was found and their leader investigated it. Hearing the scream he looked at the building the jounin moved to. Glancing to Neime then to Bashira, lastly Yuyuko. He prepared himself for barging into the building, eye's watching Karuko for the order. "Ready." This all reminded him of his last mission. He had hoped this would go smoother, much smoother.

Yuyuko as she followed on kept close to the cart as per her orders as she concerned herself with giving out supplies to the locals.
While it was not something extremely glamorous compared to the tales her father Masakage told her of his time, she felt happy to some degree that she could help them as just a person.
While the infection was not exactly pleasant, Yuyuko at least wanted to ease the burden as she forced a reassuring smile,fake as it is to at least hope the locals understood her intent.
However, as they reached the desolated street, it did not take Yuyuko to get the feeling that something was off as she heard Karuko swore.
Yup, from what she knew about Karuko sensei, that is either a sign to panic, fight or things had just gone south fast as she covered the cart and helped it move to where Karuko directed it before hearing the scream and Karuko's orders along with his second swear.
"Ready." She said as she tensed up as her mind tried to think of the possibilities of what might be inside as she gripped the sheath of Fuurai with some reluctance as she knew that if she had to cut down any infected, it might take a lot of disinfectant and cleaning to get it back to proper shape later.

If anything, Karuko doubted that the genin were ready for a true fight. But without being able to rely on others, the jounin would not curse his situation further. With a few stern gestures to make sure that the genin knew where they should position, Karuko took a breath in.
The wooden door cracked and collapsed by the firm kick of the jounin - nearly moved out of its rusty hinges.
The sight that greeted the team was far from pleasant. One that caused Karuko to gain a grim expression but not halting him from cautiously move on.

Puddles of blood were formed on the ground by various individuals that laid on the ground or were nailed to the wall. The cause of death being obvious by the sight of the sharp crystal imbedded into the bodies or causing them to be hanging from the wall.
The silence further made it clear that none of the bodies had any spark of life in them, either having bled out from their wounds or simply succumbed to the mysterious crystal disease.
Karuko led the team to the living room, where they were greeted with a sight that would likely haunt even the staunchest of the genin.

Bodies were set in a grotesque display. Various bodies seemed to be devoured by the crystal thorns, almost as if the crystal had erupted from the bodies in a violent spark. Blood coloured the furniture and did little to soften the horrid scenery.
As if it wasn't enough the stench of death seemed to be mixed with the fact that the excrement of the death was starting to mix in.
Watching the scenery, Karuko had to resist throwing up. His stomach twisted and his head started to ache. If anything, several questions started to arise and mix with assumptions.
"Do not touch any of the crystal. If you want to be spared of a similar fate, then you will refrain from doing so," Karuko ordered them.
After his command, he would move a bit further into the room. Observing one of the bodies that were half covered in crystal, Karuko frowned. It seemed as if some of the wounds were old. Likely due to the crystal having penetrated and formed outside the body. But some of the wounds were quite fresh.
"Check if all the wounds seem fresh," Karuko ordered, "just watch. Don't poke or do anything else stupid. See if you lot can't--"

Before Karuko could respond, he saw someone run through the hallway. Their dark clothes made it impossible to figure out who the person was.
"Fuck," Karuko sneered as he would make his way quickly out of the hallway and in pursuit of the figure. Exiting the house from a backdoor, Karuko noticed how the figure seemed to scale and vault over the fence with super agility.
Without hesitation, the jounin would follow in pursuit - despite noticing the various alleyways up ahead.

Neime waited for Karuko to make the breach. She had to do her best to control her breathing as to keep in mind that she had to remain vigilant for any nasty surprises.
Upon being greeted with the scenery in the hall, Neime turned pale. The display of death was far more grim than she had seen before in her life. Even the experiences from the Revolution couldn't be compared to what she witnessed.
When Karuko led them further into the residence, the foul stench was enough to make Neime throw up a little in her mouth. To the point that she spat it out, without regards to what the others would think.

The scenery that awaited them in the living room was far from better. It just made the Hayashi turn silent. Even her thoughts were absent as she simply stared at the horror. It was enough to block the girl to register Karuko's commands. Realising that she was acting as a scared kid, Neime would bite on her lower lip and approach one of the corpses.
Keeping some distance, Neime observed the corpse. The thorns of crystal seemed to have sprouted with violence out of the body, tearing the skin and flesh aside. A process that Neime hoped was fast, for to suffer such a slow growth would be too much agony to comprehend.
When Karuko started to give chase to an unknown individual, Neime quickly straightened her back. As the jounin gave chase, Neime realised something. Instead of following the jounin, the Hayashi would sprint towards the cart.
Spotting the donkey and the cart, Neime hoped that she was making the right call.

Waiting a moment as Karuko barged in, Aito followed behind. He had expected something to be wrong but what he saw wasn't the slightest that came to mind. The smells and sight made him hunch over as he began to gag and hold himself back from puking. After a few moments, he was able to compose himself. The jounin's words half-heard. He wanted them to look closer at the bodies? Straightening up he looked towards a body, unable to tell how fresh the wounds were. No blood seemed fresh but he didn't look any closer. He was ready to look at another but his attention followed Karuko as he darted out the back. Neime, on the other hand, went out of the front, confusing him. Were they to follow or not? He had little time to decide, any wasted second could mean trouble. Following Neime he looked towards his teammate. "Shouldn't we be following Karuko sensei?" He called out as they got to the cart and donkey.

As Karuko-Sensei kicked the door open and entered the house she followed closely behind Neime and Aito. The first thing Bashira noticed was the blood, there was so much blood and death in this room. Shira clenched her fist and mentally chanted 'I will not be sick, I will not be sick,' and it seemed to work until they came to the living room where the scent of faeces and urine mingled disgustingly. Bashira started to gag at the smell as she saw Karuko chase after an unknown individual and decided right then that whatever happened out there was better. The stench, unfortunately, got the better of her and she threw up some. Once she had regained her composure she followed after Karuko and of course, she stepped carefully around the bodies and faeces before darting out the back. Shira was certainly glad to be out of that awful house with those bodies and that damn stench.

As the team made their way, Yuyuko braced herself as they entered the house walking carefully to avoid getting infected by the crystal disease that plagued the area. As the team continued their investigation, they caught sight of the disgusting display that awaited them, the site causing Yuyuko to cough as a way to stop herself from gagging as she took a breath and her eyes seeming to dull as if trying to block out what she saw from entering her brain.
While they continued walking, she saw the wound as she shook her head paying attention to detail as best she could without wanting to puke covering her mouth.
As they continued, she felt the wind of someone running past her as she saw the cloaked figure run past the group causing Karuko to give chase. "Sensei?" The genin said as she ran out after Karuko following closely, her hand gripping Furrai's handle ready to unsheath it at any moment.
 
World Events
~ GM Post ~

Events in the known world.

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

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

* ADS = After the Death of the Sage.​


In the West.​

From travellers and traders, rumours tend to spread. Often, these are a far fly from the truth. Either extravagated or the true story twisted as it passed from person to the next. However, this hasn't prevented the stories that a large war is being fought in the distant west.
The names of the Galassa and Dilali don't bring anything to mind to the majority. For these lands and people are far away, not considered interesting for the honourable Imperial citizen, the loyal Republican denizen or free folk of the North.
Many of the stories are clearly nothing more than bloated truths. Gigantic armies stretching to the horizon, clashing in battles that last for months. About powerful ninjutsu practitioners that can lay waste to entire cities.

Many disregard these stories as nothing more than false or trivial. For as long as they remain far west, they can be as extravagant as travellers and traders desire.


A splendid occasion has occurred within the Wind country. Not only has the birth of a new son to the ruling daimyo been seen as a blessing from the heavens. But various diplomatic exchanges with its neighbours to the north have started to impact the country's economy. While this doesn't mean much change or benefit for the common folk, who suffer in squalor and crave for many luxuries. It certainly is starting to create more tension and wariness from the nation's rivals.
Already, the Fang country has started to conduct various raids into the Wind's dominion. These lightning-fast raids haven't hampered the Wind's economic growth but have started to attract military operations of both sides. Some wonder or even fear that an escalation isn't too far away.

Time will tell.


Broken bodies, the ground soaked with blood and banners trampled. A scenery common across the front.
Despite suffering terrible losses, the Earth country's attempt to slam through various points of their enemy's defence haven't succeeded. True to their name, the troops of the Iron country refuse to bend and surrender. The only way for the Earth country to succeed in their attempts is to break their adversaries. A feat that seems impossible to achieve.
Various signs do point out that the Earth military is starting to adapt better to the situation. Various small victories have been won and the enemy's tricks seem to have less of an impact.

This hasn't yet culled the risk of a succession crisis. The two factions that strive for absolute dominance have come to various clashes. 'Accidents' have occurred, taking the lives of prominent nobles and officials of the realm. Some taxation has gone missing and various arrests have been made.
For those well educated in politics, these are all signs that powerful alliances are starting to undermine each other. Whereas the conflict was kept at a low, it certainly becomes more visible. And painful for the realm as a whole.
Yet, a fragile peace holds. For neither faction is ready or willing yet to plunge the country into the horrors of civil strife. A conflict that will allow the victor to claim the title and crown to rule the Earth country. A prize that will be soaked in blood.



The Royal Navy of Akino​
@FrostedCaramel @Aliceee

The Royal Navy seemed like a faraway dream for many. Those who served in the decades past have witnessed little care and interest from the Fire daimyo to build a navy that could do their nation proud. To witness large and capable vessels of war striding into the port of Chinami, has made many present to cheer and thank God for these developments. For weeks it continued as the Akinians started to bring in warships from the port-city of Okino. The banners that proudly bore the sigil of the Jun and Lightning, quickly replaced by that of the Royal Akinian Navy.
Docks have been made to store and maintain the many vessels.

Work continues in Chinami, to craft the city that is meant to become the pearl of the Akinian naval might. And while not capable to compete with its neighbouring rivals, morale is high as those serving in the royal navy have renewed faith in their empire.


~ The Fire Province ~

The Hanta Clan
@Jessie Targaryen​

Alerted by the possibility that foreign spies have moved into the empire, through their land, has set various matters into motion. The Hantagado have been instructed to deal with the matter. The specialised Hanta operatives have begun to quarantine the group of travellers. Interrogating these travellers, the Hantagado has attempted to match faces and try to track down the spies.
With the possibility of the spies venturing further into the Empire, the Hantagado have attempted to figure out where the spies could have moved. Deciding on various factors and limiting possibilities, the Hantagado have executed various methods to try to catch the spies.

But whoever has sent these spies have made sure to send experienced folk. Cause despite the best attempts of the Hantagado, none of the spies have been captured. Leaving the Hanta with the knowledge that the Empire suffers a risk.



The Senju Clan
@Nim​

Silence is what greets the troops that have been dispatched to deal with the mysterious raiders that have been targetting the Senju's silk industry. Disgruntled and disappointed locals watch as the late security aid arrives. Attempts to track or figure out who is behind the attacks have only lead to questions. For the tracks seem to vanish either to the west or north. From questioning the locals, nobody seems to be able to give a good enough description of what origin the attackers and raiders were.

Though most of the locals are relieved that the attacks have ceased, some are quite displeased with the late response of those that rule and are oathbound to provide protection. Various small communities have demanded more effort for their wellbeing before they will provide to the usual quota. Those who have been lately attacked in force even refuse to pay taxation until they are ensured that no more attack occurs with impunity.



The Cho Clan
@Lesli ​

The missionaries that came ashore would find an end that wast most brutal. With the locals being wary of the foreigners, it didn't take long before the Cho Guard caught the missionaries. What followed can only be described as deaths that are too gruesome to describe.
The fate of these missionaries are unknown to the world but neither has the Cho clan learned of the missionaries purpose or goal. Each servant of Miku's light has been sent to the bosom of their loving deity, their mangled corpses remaining behind.

The few that are aware of the bloody work that was done have decided to remain silent. The locals that were involved are most content to continue their lives without allowing foreign influence attempt to change their way of life.
Yet, some of this has slipped away to neighbouring clans. Causing folk and clans to become wary of the Cho. Some even saying that the Cho barbarism should be halted, less it slip towards aggression to other clans.



The Tokugawa Clan
@Oblivion666 ​

Wealth flows through trade and taxation. A matter that is quite known by the Tokugawa clan. With various treaties and cooperation between them and other clans, the Tokugawa clan has been able to see an increase in their wealth. This increase in wealth is coming together with a better understanding of other clans and allowing trust to grow.
However, not all seems well.

Unrest is festering in various regions in the western sphere of the Tokugawa heartlands. A man by the name of Togoshi Subaru is proclaiming that the local nobility is extorting the common folk. The charismatic man has clashed several times with local authorities, evading local guards and attempts from enemies to be captured and delivered to local authorities or the top of the Tokugawa clan.
At the moment, there are only a few small villages that seem friendly. But there is no telling how large Subaru's flock might become if he isn't deal with properly.


The Hyuzu Clan
@ChromeHound ​

Few clans can rival the metalwork of the Hyuzu. Let alone attempt to boast the same knowledge and pride that they are able with their skill in moulding steel into tools, weapons and armour. For it is the Akinian Hyuzu's pride and greatest source of income. Many that understand that quality is required to get the job done, are more than okay to pay handsomely for Hyuzu craftmanship - even if it is sold and transported by Cho traders.

Despite this, the Akinian Hyuzu isn't a large clan. Their smiths being highly valued and respected. And thus making the following only much worse.
A few smiths have reported that they have been nearly abducted by unknown operatives. Various attempts have been fended off but without catching any culprit - dead or alive.
This has caused some of the Akinian Hyuzu to grow wary and fearful of some clans. Several prominent smiths demand protection from future attempts while others have started to refuse to work for several clans. An action that has some consequences if not altered swiftly.

In the North.​

Dominion of the North
@conman2163 @Aliceee @Oblivion666 @Oetje ​

A drastic turn has occurred in the strife within the Lightning country. Word spreads that the capital has fallen to the Hojo clan. The victory has come with many deaths and stories of Hojo prowess overcoming odds are spreading.
This change has set various events into motion. Minor clans have shifted from allegiance to the Regency council to the Hojo's side of the conflict. Minor skirmishes have started to flood the land with the few loyalists to the Regency council being driven out and send fleeing.
Though appearing as great news for those working hard to undo the Regency council, the fight is far from over.

Kumogakure remains under siege. The besiegers entrenched in their camps, wary for any attempts to break the siege lines. While preparing for a large scale assault, the besiegers seem to have patience - despite their situation having grown less favourable.
With the Alaricus host marching back to the siege of Kumogakure, there is no telling yet if the grand army of the Regency council can be beaten without heavy casualties.



In the South.​

The Republic of Water
@Nim ​

The coup de'tat has caused many to be wary of the new regime. Yet, soon enough, life continued within the Republic. Military operations would skyrockets as loyalists of the new regime seemed supported by a few branches of the military and civilian organisations. Eventually, the whole main island of the Republic would be under the firm control of the new regime, under the leadership of Jirou Kanbe.

Various dealings made by Jirou's regime started to settle down potential issues with clans and various prominent figures. Allowing peace to be maintained and many fathers as brothers from being levied to fight another revolt.
Yet, not all is going well.

The heavily military emissaries send out by Jirou have been sent back. The majority of the soldiers head removed their body and the few living ones being mutilated in one way or another.
Done with the constant strife and bloodshed of their overlord, the Nagi and O'zu islands have formed a rebellious coalition. Both demanding more autonomy and privileges.
As a clash seem inevitable, rumours about mysterious and unknown vessels seem to be spotted at the eastern fringes of Republican waters. Various skirmishes with these vessels have occurred, with many victories being gained by the Republic. However, none without some casualties or harm done to the strong Republican war vessels.

Worse is that the send back military emissaries have reported sighting strange vessels in the harbours of the Nagi and O'zu vassal states.
 
Operation Safeguard
[ Republic of Water | Back to the city of Shigaa | At the eastern part of the Republic ]
[ | A collab of Team 11| Arriving back in Shigaa, Nishi's team gathers together. Emotions start to flare up as the realisation starts to sink in. While some may feel the weight of blame, others certainly feel angry for being lumped together with them. ]


"Around two-hundred lives. Fathers, brothers and sons. All gone to the depths of the sea," Nishi said, though her voice soft yet being able to cut through the room and being audible enough for her team, "you all bear that blame." Turning around, she faced her team. The anger and disappointment were visible, mixed on the woman's features as growing present in her voice. Yet Nishi's body language didn't shout any aggression or gave any hints she was going to punish them. "I will not have any excuses. I will not hear any justifications. Mistakes may happen but this wasn't a mistake. This is a disaster that will stain your entire lives."

Letting a pause flow after her words, Nishi slightly raised her chin. Shifting her gaze between the chuunin and genin, she continued.

"From this day on, you lot won't be fighting and bleeding for the glory of the nation. But to earn redemption."

The genin was silent on her way back to Shigaa. Her mind was jumbled, the plan they had was solid until it ended up causing the ship to sink. She should have known ice would be harsh against wet wood, it had made sense but in the hurry of things, Claire wasn't thinking. Now she had time to think, time to remember the screams and see the ship disappear into the water. She was brought back to reality once Nishi began to speak in the room. Listening to the jounin she stared at the woman a moment. Then giving a simple bow and nod. "I won't stop until I earn that redemption." Her words were stable, her tone meant business. Looking to her teammates Claire spoke once more. "We can earn redemption, I have your back." She felt she needed to help boost moral and as an older member, to guide the younger ones, even though she was a genin still new to this life.

Being told to remain far from everyone else on the way back felt like a hard blow already. Hikari wanted to help, to do whatever she could after what had happened, and all of them were ordered to stand back. The thought of the rowers haunted her, but she was still unsure on exactly what had happened. Only thing she understood was that it was on them. Once they were in a room in the barracks, Nishi locked them in and made it very clear what she had thought on the whole ordeal. Claire decided to try and express her feelings, but Hikari felt it was redundant. Words are just that, words. If anyone wants to actually do anything, it was through actions. Right now, in the barracks, there wasn't anything she could do, except give a firm and determined nod towards Nishi.

The girl did not sleep a single night the whole way through since that night. Every night had been nightmares of drowning sailors, screaming for help. Every time she woke up with a start, hyperventilating and swearing that she could see their blood coating her hands. It would take a few minutes every time to breathe evenly and regain her composure. Not once since that night had she done the little exercise she had shown Claire. Something in her mind was afraid to do callously use her Kekkei Genkai after all those people she had killed. The thoughts of each soul lost haunting Yukimi every single night. She obeyed the orders from Nishi, with not a single hint of emotion or reaction. The girl having cut herself back to that emotionless persona to try to protect herself. Though anybody looking close enough would be able to see the fears and doubts in her mind. When they were all locked into the Barracks and Claire voiced her opinions, the Chuunin was of the same mindset as Hikari. The girl giving a determined nod, even if she didn't think that redemption would do much to help. Those people were still going to be just as dead.

A… Failure.
A failure, that was what Himiko was with this turn of events. Barely even one mission, and the young woman was a failure. They had one objective, one simple objective, to protect that boat. But instead… That girl lead to it capsizing. She followed orders, keeping away, but she didnt need any command in order to keep away. Himiko knew her shame and defeat, and knew not a soul would want to look eyes upon her. She could almost remember it, the feet kicking her, the gelatinous sensation in her legs, the uncaring clashes of the ocean against her far smaller form. She had hidden herself away, even in moments of visibility she wouldn't be there, deep in her thoughts, her despair, her shame.

It was all that ice-user's fault. If she hadn't frozen the boat, everything would have been fine. That, is what Himiko settled on, even as they were sat down, being briefed by a woman whom she barely knew at this point. Why was she blamed? She didn't freeze the boat, she didn't let her kinsmen down. Why was anyone blamed, when it was that woman's fault? She stared at Yukimi, a silent expression of resentment in her eyes. To the fresh genin, this woman made her fail.

A tsk of her teeth sounded as Claire spoke what sounded only like ridiculous platitudes to Himiko. She held her tongue no longer,

"Yes, that must be such an easy thing to say, huh? So how do you plan to earn that redemption? Or are you just speaking empty promises to make us forget the fact that people have met a watery grave, an event that wouldn't have happened if," Her gaze momentarily looked to Yukimi, "More… Thought, was put into our actions."

Nishi remained silent as she heard the responses. It was all what she had expected from some of them. Claire attempted to be uplifting, which wasn't bad. But Nishi had her doubts if it would work. Words only did so much to help the fact that they were carrying the blame that people had died while it could have been prevented.
Not saying a word to point out some painful facts, Nishi continued to listen as Claire spoke up. As Claire spoke, Nishi threw a glance at Hikari. The genin was silent and seemed to be occupied with her own thoughts. Before Nishi shifted her attention to Yukimi, she caught the stare that Himiko gave the Yuki.
Unsure, Nishi wasn't certain if she was amused or finding some content that she wasn't the only being rather furious.

When the genin spoke Nishi seemed to shift her weight but making no motion to indicate she was ready to jump to the defence of the only chuunin within the team. If any would pay attention to Nishi, the jounin seemed to adjust her stance and lean against the nearby door - as if she was trying to make herself a bit more comfortable to observe the current exchange.
However, the jounin's lips parted as she would speak up.
"Indeed. More thought and we would have not made around two-hundred women into widows. And Divine knows, how many orphans? Regardless if you were or weren't the one conjuring the ice to block that path, you four had an order. And thus carry the blame together."
Pausing, Nishi crossed her arms out front of her chest.
"Not to mention, costing the state a large sum of money and resources. A vessel like that is quite costly."

Hikari turned to look at Himiko as she spoke, before turning back to look at Nishi as the jounin spoke up once more. After she finished, Hikari stood up, looking at Himiko "We were meant to work together to defend those people, and we immediately failed to do that. So it doesn't matter who made the ice appear, the moment we split up was the moment we stopped being able to properly communicate. In all that chaos, in all that madness, and we moved away from each other like that was the best idea when we had our orders. If we stuck together, or at least closer, then we could've done things better. But what could've been doesn't matter now." She looked back towards the others.

"We have to learn from this. If we don't, and we don't change, then all those lives would've been lost for nothing. And I don't know about all of you, but I don't want to think about those lost lives, all those widows and orphans, to know all of that happened and nothing changed. So suck up whatever ill feelings you have towards others," She briefly looked at Himiko again "And start thinking on how we, as a team, can improve. Nishi asked us all before what we think we each, individually, need to improve on. I think I can safely say that as a team, communication needs lots of improvement."
After she finished speaking, Hikari sat back down on the bed and turned to look at Nishi. She hoped she hadn't screwed up with how she spoke up with her thoughts like that, but it just frustrated her that much that one of them decided it should've only been one of their faults, not all of theirs.

As the others remained silent, that soon was broken as Himiko spoke up. Turning her attention she took a breath and waited for her to finish, noticeable annoyance on her face, the shift almost instant. She was about to speak before Hikari began. Giving a nod she agreed. "I think working on communication will help. When we get the chance we should learn more about each other and work on how to work together." Turning back to Himiko she continued. "I will earn redemption by working my ass off so we do not have such a huge failure. I will train and work on my abilities, my strategic thinking even. As a team we take our victories and loses together." Looking to Yukimi, Claire walked over and placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Don't take all the blame okay. It is as much on me as it is you, and we can get past it." As she finished she looked back at the other two genin. "If you can't handle death, or responsibility this isn't the job for you. Nishi has already talked to me about the topic because I struggled a lot with some of the decisions that needed to be made. Can you kill an innocent cat or kitten? Or even another person? With your own hands? Many people die, that is a part of life. I have had to accept that, accept that this job has you risking your own life and others." Moving to Himiko she stood in front of her. "If you continue to place the blame, you won't grow. You will not make it. We won't make it. You will cost us and yourself our lives if you do not start thinking about all of us as a team. I had to learn that and Yukimi had to learn that. You will to, or I will cut you down if it means we do not fail." Sighing she sat down on a bed. Her anger was quite visible at the end as she focused on her breathing.

As she listened to the other teammates speak amongst each other, Yukimi was still haunted by the words that Nishi had spoken. About how they had created all those orphans, kids who would likely be wondering by now where the hell their father was, and why he wasn't home. Yukimi vaguely was aware of the conversation around her, but all she could hear was the difficult questions that widows would now half to answer to their loved ones. Questions that were directly, and solely, caused by her. She so desperately wanted to speak up, and kept trying to say that it wasn't the fault of the others. That Nishi should focus on her, not the genin. She wanted to take the blame for what she had done, as it was her burden to bear. Yet… she simply couldn't make herself say that. She couldn't force herself to speak up and admit that it had been her fault. Why? Why was she incapable of admitting to this, even when she so clearly knew that it had been her own choices?

Yet, her focus on herself soon shifted as she caught the end of Claire's rant. Where she had threatened to cut down her teammate, a sentiment that Yukimi was fairly certain she had once shared with Claire. Even likely said a similar threat before. Whether it was towards Claire or genin on another team she wasn't sure, but that same sentiment was exactly had led to this situation. Though certainly Claire had better reasons behind the threat than Yukimi had once had, it was much the same. She felt her own blood boil a bit, not wanting the other girl to take a path that led her making a mistake as Yukimi had. Without even thinking, she was glaring at Claire as the ambient temperature near her started to drop. Something which often happened much outside of her own control. "Quiet." Yukimi snapped towards Claire, before continuing. "Who are you to threaten your teammate like that? We all have room to improve, yes, but you certainly do not stand high enough among another to threaten their life like that. An attitude like that will just sink another ship, kill more innocent people. Do not become that person." She snapped, leaving the last bit of her words unsaid. Do not become me. She quietly thought as she looked back towards the room, feeling that nothing more needed to be said as she reigned herself in and the air started once more to warm.

Himiko was dead silent as a sort of resentment and annoyance brewed behind her eyes; she really did not appreciate being preached at, when she worked so hard just to fail on her first mission. Not only was this a massive embarrassment, people died. She didn't even know about any of her teammates, or consider what they'd do, and because she didn't consider everything, people died. She hardly saw everything as equally her fault, unlike her teammates, apart from not thinking to check on everyone like a babysitter when several people larger than her were throwing hands on the field. To Himiko, she was performing her job, of course a battlefield that chaotic would end in everyone getting separated.

However, a roaring fire was lit underneath her mood at Claire's threat if she were to hold them back. Himiko's insecurities and poor mood kicked together to create, quite a reaction. As Yukimi finished speaking, Himiko wasn't thinking about anyone or anything defending her. To the genin, her life and value had just been challenged, and to someone so dedicated to success and work, it definitely struck a nerve.

Suddenly, Himiko's figure bolted directly in front of where Claire sat, grabbing her by the collar, though even with adrenaline Himiko couldn't pull someone much stronger than her from where they were onto the floor, so instead she merely held a tight grip on the collar, getting up and close into the girl's face, yelling,

"Do you really think you're in the position to be all high and mighty with me already?! Talking to me like some sort of worthless insect, to be stomped the second i'm a burden!? I'll have you know I didn't study and work my ass off long nights just to come up and FAIL my first mission! Do you think i'm CONTENT with this outcome?! No! I'm pissed because now i'm a big failure right along with all of you because I was too stupid to consider someone would FREEZE THE DAMN DOOR!"

The angered genin released Claire's clothing if not opposed, turning away to walk and stand in the corner, an angered groan from her as her head tapped the wall, muttering under her breath, "'I will cut you down if it means we do not fail'. Teamwork my ass."

Watching the genin, Nishi was amused. The sting of failure and emotions going rampant created a situation that most would deem irredeemable. The thought had crossed Nishi's mind if she should demote them and request them to be dishonorably discharged. But instead, the jounin simply waited. Whereas some other team leaders would have jumped in to prevent the emotional rookies from jumping on each other, threatening to cause each other harm and what not, Nishi just waited. It wasn't apathy but it was pity.
When Himiko went to the corner, Nishi would click with her tongue and push her back from the wall. She kept an eye to see if Claire or any other were about to make a move, wanting to be vocal about their emotions and thoughts.

"Good, you all have said what is on your mind," Nishi calmly stated as she placed her hands on her hips, "saves me some trouble."
Letting a silence echo through the room, Nishi threw a look at Hikari.
"You don't want to think about those left by the dead? Understandable. But ignoring them won't do you any good. You state that change is required. Let start changing that you can't ignore the aftermath or those affected by it."
Sighing, Nishi threw a look at Yukimi.
"Seems that you are starting to get what I told you before."
Then came the whole case of Claire and Himiko.

"Claire, you stated that you will cut down Himiko? Quite contrary to my lesson. For the blame can and will be placed. Without acknowledging what went wrong and who is to blame, how can you grow?" The woman frowned, clearly ignoring the fact that the genin was likely too angry or simply didn't care. "It is all dandy to care a blame. But don't let compassion for one person blind you to be ignorant of their deeds."
Throwing a look at Himiko, Nishi pondered briefly. It was certain a pity that the genin's first mission was a failure. The dedication was something that Nishi could approve but it didn't cause the jounin to feel sorry for her.
"I have said all that I needed," Nishi decided as she half turned around.

"I am going to do my duty to report what happened. You all will stay here. Without even touching a single hair of each other." Without feeling the need to explain what else would occur if they ignored her commands, Nishi unlocked the door and opened it. Closing the door behind her, Nishi released a heavy sigh.
 
Different Approach and Update from the East

[ Republic of the Water Country | Kirigakure ]​
[ Jirou Kanbe ]​


Heading to the port, as he was escorted by several armed men, Jirou made no indication of what he was thinking on his expression. The only thing that could be visible was that the pace was a rather hastened one. Whatever he was going to see, he felt it had urgency in it. He hadn't been to port in person for some time, as he never had business there unless he got deployed somewhere, like during the war. So the thought of the port also brought back some less than pleasant memories. Keeping his expression serious, Jirou made sure to put his mind back onto the reason he was headed there now.

Arriving at the port, a soldier that had been waiting for his arrival offered a quick salute before beginning to escort Jirou to a pair of ships down the docks. The same ships that had previously gone out to seek a conversation with the vassals to the south. As they came closer, Jirou's steps became slower. He had only heard that something happened to the people on the ships, but this was something else.

Numerous bodies were being brought off board each ship, covered in cloth. Jirou could already see something was wrong with the bodies. Gesturing for his escort to remain in place, he moved closer to one of the bodies and raised the cloth that covered it. His expression turned grim upon seeing it was missing its head, and looking over the way the cloth covered many of the other bodies, it appeared that was the case for many of the now deceased that were being brought off board.

Turning to look at the closer of the two ships, he gestured to one of the men that were bringing bodies off board "Soldier, any men made it back without suffering this fate?" He asked, and the soldier responded with a nod, before looking towards the ship for a brief moment. Understanding what he meant, Jirou went on board the ship, and was greeted by the sight of a few men, sitting on crates, while they were being surrounded by medical staff. Approaching the group, he couldn't help but wonder what kind of sickness had plagued the vassals mind, if this was their response.

One was missing an arm and had the skin partially removed on the other. Another was missing an eye, with a vicious looking scar over where it once was. Those were just the two closest to him that he could see. Jirou waited patiently before one of the medical staff moved to the side, allowing him to come closer to the now one armed, soon to be retired, soldier "What happened?" He asked, showing no emotion on his face as he waited for the soldier to acknowledge him and respond.

The soldier, who was looking down, brought his gaze up. His expression turned into one that was filled with anger, mixed with sadness "What happened? Can you not see what happened? Those Nagi bastards decided they've had enough of seeing more soldiers from the Republic! They grabbed us as soon as they saw we were all military, and started executing us! And there were unknown ships, all watching it from the side! And those that got to watch, those that got to-" He stopped as his lip started to tremble and his speech turned into a mumble. A medic came and asked Jirou to take a step back, moving to take care of the man.

Without asking any further questions, Jirou got off the ship. He approached his soldiers and gestured to them to follow him once more, feeling as though he had seen and heard enough to understand the bare minimum of what had occurred, and where his mistake had laid. He had not considered what could happen if he sent more soldiers without a proper diplomat, and now it cost him lives. Loyal men and women who followed him, all perished and for what he considered to be nothing. Those lives were on him.

After arriving back at his office, Jirou ordered three soldiers to remain. He took a couple of minutes of writing something down on a paper, before tearing it into three pieces. Looking at the soldiers, he offered each a piece of paper "You will approach the person whose name is on the paper I gave you. They are diplomats that I've come to know over the years. You will each ask them what they will need to make a proper diplomatic trip to the vassal that is written on your list, and make sure they receive it. You will report back to me once they departed from the country. Those are your orders, now go." He told them loud and clear, and watched as all three saluted and left the room with haste. Moving to sit behind his desk, Jirou looked down at the blank paper that laid in front of him. He will need to make sure the families that lost their loved ones will be taken cared of.


A few hours later, a knock came on the door. Jirou allowed entry, and one of the soldiers he had seen stationed at the port earlier came in. The soldier quickly saluted and gave what he stated was a reports file from one of the Eastern ports of the Republic. Opening the report, Jirou started going over it carefully. Reports of fights between the Republican ships and unidentified ships. Although there had been multiple victories, they all came with casualties. That was always the price of war.

And yet, one report in particular caught his eye. A ship that sank, and it was not at the hands of the enemy, but rather due to a friendly, and cost 200 lives of rowers that served on the ship. Jirou couldn't believe what he was reading. A friendly caused an entire vessel to sink, with ice, and the loss of so many lives? He had half a mind to outright order that team leader, and her team, to return and put them all on trial for mass murder and treason. Leaning back in his seat, he took another moment to consider things. With the fact they were still in the front with the unidentified vessels, it was more than likely they would still encounter more of those. And he needed more people there, not less, especially after the loss of an entire ship. He could always take more time to consider how to properly punish the team responsible for this.

In the meanwhile, another thought had come up to his mind. Unknown ships at Nagi, and unidentified vessels in the east. Could they have been the same type of ships? He couldn't have any way to verify without having someone that has been to both fronts see first hand. Or to compare the details from both sides, but at the current state of the soldiers from the vassals, it would likely be somewhat futile. Deciding to let the diplomats make their moves first, without interfering, Jirou had already begun considering what kind of moves he could make later on to try and learn more about those ships that arrived at Nagi, and potentially also the other vassals.

Dismissing the soldier, Jirou stood up from his table and stared at the reports file. So many losses to hear about in one day. Was this what his superiors needed to hear so often in the third and fourth years of the Great War? It was certainly not easy to hear about. But at the end, it was for the betterment of the country. For the safety of his family, and for a better future.
 
Team 19 Meeting!
[ Empire of Akino | Imperial Rain Province - Amegakure, the provincial capital ]
[ Team 19 - Ferra Arkos | A collaberation done by Team 19 | Ferra rallies her team to participate into a meet and greet-esque event. While there is some hesitation among the participating students, Ferra continues to motivate them. With the team continuing to partake in Ferra's event, they soon are put to a certain test...]

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3!


Listening as her three students spoke in turn, Ferra made a mental note of each response. Earth she was very familiar with and she could provide a lot of guidance for, Megumi… she would need to work with to figure things out and Rini… truth be told, Ferra envied wind release. It was a rather potent nature to use in Godai, despite what many thought, and it could be incredibly difficult fighting a wind release user that knew how to use their element properly. While Ferra was not a wind-release user herself, there was one member of the Flying Lemurs she might be able to bring in to train Rini, should the girl need it. As she opened her mouth to answer Kuni's question, Ferra stopped and began smiling as Rini did her job for her; explaining what the purpose of the marked lines was. Turning her attention to Rini, Ferra gave her a slight nod. "Very good. Looks like someone has done her studying." Turning back to the others, the Jounin scratched her chin before continuing, "In the sport of Godai, it is typically a requirement to be able to use at least one elemental chakra nature. However, for this exercise, we will not be using actual elemental attacks. This is to avoid causing more damage than necessary." Raising an eyebrow, Ferra grinned. "Despite how fun it might be for me to let you all head out onto the field and just let loose, I fear it might be considered irresponsible... " Making her way closer to the marked area, Ferra glanced over her shoulder."We will split into teams of two. Rini, seeing as you have a fairly strong knowledge of the sport, you will lead one team while I will lead the other."

Coming to a stop next to a pile of objects, Ferra folded her arms across her chest and turned to the students. "Megumi, you will be on my team. As the least experienced member of the team, it is only fair that you're paired with the most experienced. Kuni, that means you will be with Rini." Pointing down towards the objects, which comprised of several balls of varying sizes and a few flat looking objects, the Jounin continued, "In Godai, there are three principle moves. A light attack, a heavy attack and a block. To mimic this, we have put together some balls and a few shields. There are two sizes of balls, one lighter one meant to simulate a lighter attack and one larger, heavier one, meant to simulate the heavy attack. The flat objects down there are shields. Each person will take one shield and five of each balls. We will line up across from each other, starting in the first zone. The goal is to knock both members of the other team back one zone. If that happens, we will reset and push into the second zone. Two hits from a small ball or one hit from a larger ball will be the markers for being 'knocked back'. Once you are knocked back, you cannot continue to participate until we reset, so be careful. And be honest." Her tone growing stern, Ferra looked at each student in turn. "If you get hit, I expect you not to lie. If I catch anyone pretending they were not hit, it's not going to be pleasant."

"Before we begin, are there any questions?"

Before getting an answer to her question, Megumi informed the team that she didn't know what was her chakra nature. While she wondered how will Ferra help Megumi learn what it is, Rini went on to inform them she had wind release, and then answer her question. Kuni nodded with a smile of gratitude. Ferra then began explaining things further, splitting them into two teams and then informing them they will be using balls and shields instead. The explanation sounded simple enough to understand, so she simply shook her head as a response when Ferra inquired if they had any questions.

When Ferra commented that Rini had done her 'study', the chuunin briefly looked away. She felt a warmth rushing to her cheeks and though it was certainly pleasant, Rini wasn't certain how to respond back.
Listening to the jounin, Rini was actually happy that they wouldn't use techniques. She already reckoned that it would be near impossible to counter Ferra's release. And for a few reasons, the chuunin had anticipated that she would be pitted against the jounin. What certainly didn't make Rini feel anymore confident when she heard they would use balls and shields.
Going over the rules, Rini slowly nodded as Ferra explained them. Truth be told, she was still not feeling too confident. At least, when it came to throwing balls at Ferra. If there was one upside to it, Rini mused to herself, then it was that Ferra never had seen her in action.

Picking up a shield and the maximum of balls, Rini wavered. She thought about the heavy balls. In practice, they would be slower and heavier. Making it hard to throw them as efficient as the light balls. Throwing a sideways glance at the others, a plan started to hatch in her mind.

Taking her place on the field that belonged to her and Kuni, Rini rolled with her shoulders.
"I assume that means we are going by official Godai rules though?" Rini inquired as she already weighted a ball in her right hand, "If somebody is going to use chakra to move or alter the field, they are disqualified?"
The question wasn't just to strike a conversation as the chuunin would slightly frown. There was a certain ability of the jounin that Rini had heard about. Not to mention that her 'ally' was somebody that had earned the nick of being a mole.
"Though, do moles run hard?" Rini thought to herself briefly, before focusing herself on what was about to happen.

Being split into pairs she took her side with Ferra. Looking over the balls and shield she wondered how hard or easy it would be to toss the objects around or to block. The lighter taking two hits to push a person back, the heavier took only one. Did she have any questions? Not really, Megumi knew playing would answer any curiosities she had about the sport. Taking what she was told and setting them close she looked over at Ferra before glancing at Rini and Kuni. It seemed one was already ready for action. Taking a deep breathe she held a stance, grounding her feet. Remembering the rules she smiled. "Ready." She may not do well but she did want to have fun at least.

When Rini asked her question, Ferra grinned. Seemed the girl might know more than she'd given her credit for. "That is correct," she said, looking around at the others. "The use of chakra to alter the field in any way is forbidden and will result in immediate disqualification. In Godai, the only one allowed to alter the field is a game master, and that is usually only for special matches or tournaments to add an extra layer of challenge." Pondering something for a moment, she collected her shield and the balls and made her way towards her side of the arena. "And before anyone gets any sneaky ideas, if you are caught using chakra to aid you in any other way, you will also be disqualified and your punishment shall not be pleasant." Taking a moment to drive her point home, Ferra made sure to meet the gaze of each student before adjusting her shield and nodding.

"I will count down from three and then we will begin."

In her hand she held one light ball, the rest laid out beside her.

"Three."

Glancing at Megumi, Ferra wondered how well the girl would hold up.

"Two."

Her attention shifted back to the two girls in front of her. They did not necessarily have extensive experience in Godai, but Rini seemed like the tenacious type that would fight tooth and nail for victory and Kuni had a fair amount of experience as a kunoichi. This would be fun…

"One."

Without hesitation, Ferra immediately shifted to the side, launching her light ball towards Kuni's head while keeping an eye out for how the two of them would react.

The answer of Ferra didn't do much to make Rini grow more confident. Waiting for the countdown, Rini wanted to make the first move. Her sight already trained on Megumi and her hand gripping a light ball. Before the chuunin was capable of launching the first attack, her attention was caught by Ferra.
The jounin moved much faster than Rini had expected. And it seemed that Kuni was her target.
"Damnit," Rini muttered as she would throw the light ball. The object soaring through the air, an attempt to intercept Ferra's attack.

As Rini asked further questions about the match, Kuni got prepared by taking all the needed balls and equipment. Once those were answered by Ferra, the countdown began, with Kuni contemplating on who to try and tackle first with the heavy ball she chose to wield. When the countdown ended, Ferra tossed her ball, aimed directly at the jinchuuriki. Barely spotting it, Kuni leaned backwards, feeling herself beginning to fall in an attempt to dodge the incoming projectile, while throwing her ball towards the right of Megumi's legs.

All questions were answered and Ferra began her countdown. Her heart picking up in her chest as the numbers grew smaller. As the jounin spoke the last one she immediately moved and tossed a ball at Kuni. Watching the ball fly through the air, a second was thrown by Rini in an attempt to intercept the first. Megumi's eyes watched as Kuni stumbled to dodge the incoming attack from Ferra, throwing her larger ball at the genin in the process. The ball was low so Megumi was able to move out of the way, barely avoiding the object. Standing firmly she stayed on the defensive, waiting for an opening, small ball in hand.

Kicking a heavier ball up with her foot, Ferra continued to move, never remaining stationary for long enough for the others to get a bead on her. She was not moving as quickly as she would in an actual match, after all, none of her students had tried the sport before and it would not be fair for her to operate at 100% of her normal abilities.

That did not mean she would take it easy on them though.

Her eyes tracked the first attack, watching as Rini threw her own ball to intercept it. It was an interesting move as the girl had chosen to defend her teammate over launching an attack of her own - something Ferra found intriguing. Megumi had managed to dodge the incoming attack on herself, and appeared to be pressing the advantage against Kuni - a move that showed Ferra the girl had at least some idea of strategy.

Whipping the heavy ball towards Rini's midsection, Ferra shifted forward, a lighter ball already in her hand to replace the heavy one she had just thrown.

Watching how Kuni struggled to evade a throw, Rini was half a mind to let Kuni take care of her own mess. Rini's instincts were yelling at her to focus on the larger danger than losing an ally, Ferra. But instead of focusing on defending herself, Rini dashed forwards.
Spotting something soaring towards her Rini would raise her shield to cover herself. A moment later a heavy vibration moved over Rini's arm, causing her to throw a quick glance to the side.
While Kuni stumbled Rini didn't hesitate in her next motion.
Closing in on Kuni rapidly, Rini would slam against her ally - in the hope of smacking her against the ground. All the while using her own shield to, hopefully, deflect the incoming barrage.
"Stay low, small target."

After falling onto the ground, Kuni raised her head slightly in an attempt to see if her ball managed to hit Megumi, only to suddenly get slammed back against the ground by Rini, who told her to stay low. Surprised by the motion of her teammate, she looked at Rini and simply nodded once, before glancing towards her pile of balls that laid a bit to the side. She wondered if she could kick a light ball into her grasp, but she figured she would likely be kicking Rini if she tried any such motion currently. So the most she did was readjust the way she laid on the ground, to be better prepared for moving when possible.

Megumi watched as their leader moved around, not stopping for a second. Of course she would have the stamina to do so, taking a more aggressive play style. It seemed Rini was staying defensive as well. Shielding herself and throwing Kuni to the ground. She could hear something was said but it was out of ear shot. She knew on the ground Kuni would be limited with movement but had Rini protecting her with any ball thrown. Thinking for a moment Megumi threw her small ball, though it was more of a lob. The arc making it fall from above onto the pair. Hoping this would distract them and give an opening for Ferra.

Adjusting as Rini tackled Kuni, Ferra wondered exactly what the girl had in mind. When Kuni stayed on the ground, however, she understood. It was an interesting tactic, not necessarily one she'd use as it took a teammate out of the fight until they had an opportunity to move. But, it also meant they'd likely try to focus their attention on Kuni, which would allow Rini to take advantage of the opportunity.

Instead, however, Ferra turned her attention back to Rini. The girl had absorbed the hit from her heavy ball which meant the shield wouldn't hold up against another attack. Something Ferra had decided not to mention to the students. After all, a little surprise kept things interesting. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed how Megumi threw her ball upwards in an arc. It was also an interesting strategy as it would divide the attention of their opponents. Interesting, she thought, launching the light ball towards Rini and quickly kicking up another into her hand. Without hesitating this time, she launched the second ball as well, trying to anticipate where Rini might dodge to should the girl decide to move rather than absorb the attack.

"Fuck," Rini grunted the curse word as she held the shield in front of herself. "Get ready to move," Rini instructed Kuni as she was about to get moving.
Noticing that Ferra and Megumi got into action, Rini quickly eyed which attack was more pressing. Grabbing a light ball in her free hand, Rini considered her options as the seconds to react properly were devoured rapidly.
Hoping that Kuni was able to now respond more proper, Rini would move forwards as she kept her shield up - avoiding Megumi's ball while taking Ferra's attack head on.

Wanting to react, Rini's eyes widened upon the shield cracking and splintering upon the impact. In a near instant Rini's eyes shot towards Ferra.
Already a ball was heading towards her, at a speed that Rini couldn't react to.
The impact made the chuunin narrow her eyes as she wanted to curse out loud. As Rini's cheeks flared up red, the girl noticed that the jounin was laying the attack heavy on her. Making a feign to the right, Rini was able to avoid the following up attack.

"Get your shit together," Rini muttered to herself as her attention shifted from Ferra to Megumi. Now that she had no shields, at least, she had both hands free.
Throwing a light ball at the genin's legs, aimed low, Rini was quick to follow up by throwing a heavy ball at the genin - at chest height.

Rini gave the order, and Kuni nodded. Quickly enough, the girl went off her, and Kuni quickly rolled to the side, barely seeing how Megumi and Ferra both appeared to be targeting Rini. Made sense, if they targeted the one who is more capable and got her out, it would be easier for them to target herself afterwards. Grabbing a light ball, she watched as Rini's shield broke after getting impacted once more. Standing up, Kuni turned to look at the two.

Ferra would likely have an easy time dodging most attacks, while she didn't know about Megumi. She decided to throw the light ball toward's Ferra's legs, before kicking another light ball from the ground into Ferra's direction. She had no idea if it would work, but she hoped that perhaps it could at least draw away some of the attention from Rini.

As the shield broke she wondered if they were meant to or if there was a flaw in the one Rini held. She didn't have much time to think about it as the other team began their counter attack. Megumi watched the two balls fly her way and had to think quickly. Moving slightly to the side she used the shield to block the heavier ball. Thinking she had enough space from the smaller one she felt the tap on her calf as the ball bounced off her leg. Keeping that in mind, another hit from a smaller ball would push her back a zone. As the heavier ball fell to the ground the genin picked up a small ball once more. Aiming she threw the ball towards Kuni's midsection, as she noticed the other was no longer on the ground and moving now.
 
Imperial Gathering - 3
[ Empire of Akino | Kanazawa, Uchiha Heartlands ]
[ An Imperial gathering has been organised, in the city of Kanazawa. Honouring their oath to the crown, the Imperial clans flock to the city where they are generously welcomed by the Uchiha clan - who have the honours of organising the meeting. The Gathering is a special occasion for the Imperial clans to muster together and discuss various topics. Or bring suggestions to the crown. As expected, the event is woven with intrigue from the participants as backdoor deals and alliances have been forged. Rivals plotting to outdo the other or schemes to thwart the plans of others. ]

[A collab between the Akinian Clans ]





Kiyomi had been listening and watching how the clans responded. Enjoying a cold beverage, she didn't say anything about the fact that the clans started to nominate this or that clan. Her words hadn't given any inclination that she desired it but nonetheless, it had happened. And truthfully? She was more than okay with it.
The backing that the clans performed allowed Kiyomi to gain an insight on some alliances. A few were known to her, a few others she had guessed but that didn't stop her from being surprised.
Before more clans would be able to react to Lord Hyuzu's words, Kiyomi placed down her mug and raised a hand. A simple gesture that would signal the prohibition of anyone speaking.

Allowing the silence to persist for a moment, Kiyomi glanced at the present dignitaries from each clan before she spoke.
"I indeed have the say on who deserves what. It is mine to give to those who have proven both loyal and worthy," Kiyomi began, keeping her voice soft and the pace normal. "However, I do appreciate that ideas and suggestions are brought forward. For it is nearly impossible for me to gauge who is worthy. And it would pain me to know that I can't show appreciation to those who deserve it."
Her gaze fell first upon the Miyazato representative.
"Mister Miyazato," Kiyomi flashed a polite smile, "I have the honour of working with a relative of yours. The Lord Admiral is a delight to cooperate with. His honesty and expertise have schooled me much more than I could have imagined. Top on that, I have the brief pleasure to have met and cooperate with another relative of yours. Furthermore, I can appreciate a certain sense of boldness. Your clan will receive a fief."

The next person that would catch Kiyomi's attention was the lord of the Riojin clan.
"You are most humble, Lord Riojin. For you take more blame on yourself than you truly should. You are forgiven by me. For I am grateful that you've helped to restore order to the Rain province." Pausing, Kiyomi tapped softly against the table as if she had to calculate something. "Naturally, your clan is given the reward to govern one of these fiefs. I hope that this can offer some respite for what your clan had to suffer. And to reward their services during the dark days that Amegakure had to experience."

Turning her attention to the Yamanaka, Kiyomi pondered quickly on something. "Lady Yamanaka, the same goes for you. I hope that I can entrust a fief to your people. I am looking forward to seeing how it will flourish."
Done with her sentence, Kiyomi would pick up her mug and take a sip. The motion begins slowly, both to make a point and simply cause the young monarch delighted herself in letting them wait.
A satisfied sigh escaped Kiyomi's lips as she placed the mug down.
"My gratitude to your people, Master Uchiha. Where was I? Ah yes," Kiyomi turned her attention to Ferra Arkos. "Lady Arkos, your words have piqued an interest. I can imagine that not all will agree with your suggestion, merely for reasons of their own. Colour me interested, however," a smile dawned on Kiyomi's lips as she leaned back in her comfortable seat, "you will receive a fief as well. If you can demonstrate that your motivation is great enough, we will talk further about your alteration today. But if it isn't? Then I will be most displeased."

The brief glance that the young monarch gave would place an emphasis on what she thought on being displeased. Blinking, the expression melted away and gave way for one that seemed as if Kiyomi nearly forgot something.
"Ah, I almost forgot. How stupid," Kiyomi snorted as she threw a look over her shoulder towards the only present Scholae in the room. "Lord Nimatsu has served me for a long time. Dutiful and loyal. Before and after my ascension to the Akinian throne. For that, I will reward the Nimatsu clan with two fiefs. As a show of my gratitude to the Nimatsu clan," flashing a smile, Kiyomi turned back to the leaders and representatives of the clans at the table. "Now that is discussed," Kiyomi clapped her hands together as if she had to awaken the people at the table, "I suggest that one of you take the stage."

The meeting had carried on in a rather interesting fashion thus far and Shikamura Nara found himself quite intrigued at how everything had played out. If nothing else, these meetings certainly provided a wealth of information on the other clans. Some of it was rather unexpected, but not all of it in a negative way. The Arkos clan's proposal was one that he had found curious. It had the potential to destabilize some of the clans or, at least, serve as a distraction to some. Those who had spoken out against it so far were ones that the Nara imagined would be opposed to such an idea. Many of the larger clans had grown accustomed to their wealth and luxuries. A clan that was seen as insignificant in comparison to them, threatening to take some of those luxuries away… it had the potential to cause quite a stir and Shikamura remained curious to see what would happen, either way.

One development had brought some concern, however, when Zakito Hon appeared to agree with the Uchiha representative. It was a small item, but the implications were enough to cause Shikamura to ponder something. When Kiyomi spoke, the Nara sat back in his chair, sipping his tea and patiently listening as the young Empress informed them of her decision. When she had finished speaking, Shikamura smiled warmly. The results were quite favourable. The Nara clan had not received a fief, but that had never been something he desired. The Yamanaka being gifted one was truly a blessing from the Empress and Shikamura made a mental note to congratulate Tsuru after the meeting. Kiyomi offered up the floor to whomever was willing to take it and the Nara stood..

"If it pleases Your Majesty, the Nara clan would like to take this opportunity to speak." Bowing politely towards the Empress, Shikamura then turned his attention towards the other dignitaries. "First, I would like to congratulate all those who have been granted the honour of receiving a fiefdom. Her Majesty has chosen very deserving clans indeed. I would also like to state that the Nara clan is open to any who might desire assistance." His tone was sincere and Shikamura continued to look around the room. "The topic that I would like to bring up is one that I believe touches close to home for many of us, judging by what I have witnessed thus far." Pausing to take a breath, the Nara continued. "Healthcare in the Empire has gone largely unchanged for as long as I can remember. We have not invested much time or money into it as it was believed to be effective enough. However, the times are changing I'm afraid, and it appears that more and more people are falling to illnesses that we cannot treat." Glancing around the room, Shikamura met the gazes of the representatives who had been unable to make it to the clan meeting. "If left unchecked for too long, I believe this could become a threat to the Empire. A threat, I might add, that is incredibly difficult to fight."

"The Nara clan has a long history of treating and creating remedies for such illnesses. Our extensive medical records allow us to better recognize certain signs that may go unnoticed by others. We wish to share our knowledge and expand on what already exists. To that end, I would like to propose the founding of a new branch in the government. One tasked with combating these invisible threats. A branch whose primary purpose is to study and improve the healthcare of all Akinians." His attention turned to Kiyomi and Shikamura continued, "This branch would also be responsible for setting up facilities or outposts in areas that may not otherwise have access to healthcare or medicine. If this were to be approved, I would also like to humbly request that the Nara clan have some involvement so that we may share our knowledge and skills with those who need it most."

Bowing towards the Empress once more, Shikamura sat and calmly took another sip of his tea.
Tsuru smiled as Kiyomi concluded. Honestly, she was curious to see how it would play further out. What territory the Yamanaka would be allowed to govern was a question that Tsuru would ask later. The fact that they were allowed to govern a fief was for now more than enough.

When Shikamura stood up and spoke, the Yamanaka leader listened. Taking small sips of her tea, she wondered about something. There wasn't yet any comment on supporting the Nara's suggestion.
"Lord Nara's suggestion shows his compassion and loyalty to the Empire, truly," Tsuru began, "but the problem may come, of course, that not everyone is accustomed to dealing with outsiders to set up shop to help others. Despite we all strive to serve her Majesty to the best of our abilities, cultural differences cause friction. Misunderstanding leading to hostilities."
Knowing fully well what she had said and how she phrased it, Tsuru cast a smile before she continued.
"To prevent this from becoming a problem, I would like to offer the assistance of the Yamanaka seers. Due to the wide range of clans and regions, the seers have a good understanding of local traditions. Anyone who is concerned that this plan will encounter too much resistance can thus rest assured. If it would please both Lord Nara and her Majesty, the Yamanaka are most eager to aid this endeavour."


"It is certainly a good plan," Zakito stated, at first, "I must admit that I lack the expertise or study in medical practises. But I am quite aware that logistics can be put into play. A project like this can be expensive. Certainly if it aimed to stretch over the Empire and not just one region in particular. If Lord Nara and her Majesty are willing, I suppose we could see how much this undertaking may cost. And then decide if it is worth? Not to mention that I want to suggest a small change," Zakito paused.

He was well aware of what benefits this plan could bring. And being not blind to the expanding of the Nara's influence, Zakito didn't entirely like some aspects of the plan as how the Nara placed it.
"Much like Lady Yamanaka puts it, understanding of traditions will be a necessity. Not to mention that trust is also a thing. The Yamanaka clan provides seers for many of my clan's nobility. But not in all parts are Yamanaka seers at work. Or respected as much as the other natives. Certain people will have a demand for folk that are like them. Especially in more remote areas. For that purpose, I would like to request if I can't organise a group of competent people to be tutored by the Nara experts. I wager that this study will cost some time. The expenses shall be covered by me, though."

"Thank you Lord Hon, Lady Yamanaka." Shikamura began, "We would be honoured to receive the aid of the Yamanaka seers. As for Lord Hon's suggestion," the Nara turned to Zakito and smiled, nodding his head in a gesture of respect, "I find it to be an excellent one, and quite in line with what I had in mind. To clarify, I do believe a large part of this proposed branch's responsibilities would be centered on training others who could help spread care and medicine throughout the Empire. As Lady Yamanaka and Lord Hon have pointed out, it would not be logical to believe a single clan can enter all lands and instantly be welcomed. Understandably, there is still much work that needs to be done in order to bring such a dream to reality. At this time, however, I simply wished to bring the topic to attention and humbly offer the services of the Nara clan." Turning his attention back to Kiyomi, Shikamura continued, "If it would please Your Majesty, I would like to put together a full breakdown of my proposed plan, along with an estimation for what funding may look like and can bring this to you outside of this meeting."

Hirasuke listened as the meeting continued. The second topic was delivered by the Nara clan leader. And for some reason, the majority were fine with giving a silent response. Amused by this sudden shift, Hirasuke wondered if no one had some doubts or wants about this suggestion. More so when the Nara leader requested to bring it further outside of the meeting.
"If it would please her Majesty and Lord Nara, I would like to be part of this meeting. I admit," the man said, a soft smile dawning on his features, "that I am a bit rusty when it comes down to studies of medicine. But I am quite versed in setting up various operations like these. Much like how generous Lord Hon was, I would like to extend the aid of the Uchiha clan as well. Lord Shozo would be most pleased to hear such future cooperation, if the others would be willing."

Listening to Lord Nara explaining his point, Kiyomi frowned. But the young monarch seemed intrigued as Lord Nara continued to explain. Gently weighing the cup with the remainder of her beverage, Kiyomi considered what Lord Nara brought to the table.
It didn't take long before some replies came. But none were negative, adding something to it. Guessing some of the motives and reasons why this or that dignitary phrased their reply like that or even said what they did, Kiyomi weighed it in her mind.

"I do like the idea, Lord Nara. We shall indeed continue to discuss this further. With those that are intrigued to aid it," Kiyomi said, a subtle nod following in the direction of the Nara leader. Once done, Kiyomi leaned back in her seat. Awaiting who would follow.

Quietly supporting the motion, Taniya waited politely for the motion to form a new section of the Imperial government to end. Once finished Taniya would politely clear her throat and stand from her seat, turning specifically towards the Empress. Her tone was respectful but proud. "Your majesty as you are aware the Omari have recently sent many of our brave sons and fathers away to war for the good of the Empire. My own husband has gone to lead them. We are proud to volunteer our forces to eliminate those that pose a threat to the Empire. However it has not gone unnoticed in our lands. Those that would tend our fields and our shops are gone, replaced where they can be by those left behind. To prevent any harm to the people that my husband rules over, the Omari would request a reprieve from Imperial taxes until such time as our soldiers return home." Bowing her head when she was finished, Taniya awaited a reply.

"I don't see why a tax reduction should be in place," Takeo spoke up.

A frown was present on the Tamiyo leader as he leaned back in his seat. He made a wide gesture, as if he pointed out to everyone. "We all toil and sacrifice for the good of the Empire. I hardly see why the Omari should be granted tax reduction when they brought this upon themselves. As the miss stated, the Omari decided on their own terms to volunteer. Did the Empire ask for their fathers and brothers to fight in the east?" Not waiting for a response, Takeo shook his head lightly.
"No, is the answer. Neither did the Empress demand payment last time. The horrible mismanagement of the Omari and the impacts of their decisions are theirs. Not of the Empire."
Enlisting a pause, Takeo leaned forward to throw a glance at their esteemed leader.
"Your Majesty, if it pleases you, I would rather offer a loan to the Omari. In their inexperience and perhaps shortsighted nature, they gave you a solid wealth. A hundred golden suns? The Tamiyo shall offer this to the Omari. With, of course, that the Omari are bound to make repayments till the debt is fulfilled. To prevent either side from doing something dishonourable, I suggest that your agents keep an eye on it. Perhaps guide the Omari before they decide to deposit wealth to another cause, while their subjects suffer."

"I have to agree. While honourable as it was to send a vast majority of your men to go fight in the east. That was your own choice, same as with the hundred golden suns. So excluding you from the tax cause of hardship is hardly a good reason as we all undergo hardships Lady Omari." Mitsunari spoke before clearing his voice. In fact many in this room have been under some stability issues. The Senju were one for example. "If I can offer something on top of Lord Tamiyo's offer. While it's generous, the Omari clan as Lady Omari stated has a lack of people. Even with the Golden Suns given to them. It would take them a long time before they could repay such a debt. However it might be more possible if some of the refugees that came from across the border go to work on the Omari lands. It could help stabilize them for the meantime, I even offer to send my own people to keep tabs on the well being of the refugees if you would allow this, your Majesty."

The look on Taniya's face was of distaste as she turned towards the Tamiyo leader briefly, before turning back to the Empress. "Such harsh words from the Tamiyo do discredit towards the honesty of my request, your majesty. It is still a request though, one made out of concern for my people. If you do not wish to grant us this request we will humbly accept your decision, however-" She turned her head to the Tamiyo leader again. "I will not accept disrespect towards my clan. We will accept no help from the Tamiyo, monetary or otherwise." Finishing, she turned back to the Empress to await her response again.

Listening to the Omari and the subsequent responses, Kiyomi's features did little to reveal her thoughts and emotions on the request. While she could understand why the Omari asked for what they did, Kiyomi personally was irritated.
When the exchanges continued, it became clear that suggestions or motions from the other clans. The harsh words from the Tamiyo weren't received with excitement. In fact, the Omari representative even stated that they wouldn't accept help. Yet, there was no response to the Riojin suggested alteration.
"Lady Omari," Kiyomi began, pausing for a mere second, "I hear your concern. But it seems that a solution is presenting itself to you and your people. One that will do something about the concern that your people have," the young empress said.

"You may choose either your pride or to accept the Tamiyo's offer. If Lord Riojin is kind enough to oversee that the matter is being dealt with, without any abuse or exploiting the deal, I will be content. I will even see if there are refugees from the Claw can be directed back. But it is your choice. Your pride or the concern of your clan and people."
Turning her attention away, Kiyomi picked up the mug in front of her. Waiting for the next dignitary to speak up.

The next one to rise from their seat was none other than Lord Tokugawa himself who stood up straight with his arms resting behind his back. Looking around the room to make sure everyone was paying attention, he would give all a polite smile before speaking. "My fellow Lords and Ladies, I bring to you all a proposal that I believe would aid all of us in the long run. As you all are aware my lands are in a position that puts me in close position to all your lovely lands. Most if not all have to travel through my lands to allow their merchants to trade with each other." Leo gave a moment of pause to scan the room before resuming his proposal.

"I deal in trade with most of you already, but I have a solution to make trade with each other easier and safer in the long run. My clan is going to build a Trade Hub. A place where all our traders can set up and conduct trade far faster and with more safety. The idea is to cut back time significantly for how long it takes traders to depart from your respected cities and to return. It shall also cut back on your own expenses as you wont need to spend more of your wealth on supplies for a longer travel." Pausing for a brief moment he made sure to keep himself composed, as he looked at the various leaders gathered.
"Now I won't ask for supplies to build such a Hub as I can take care of all that by myself. What I would like to ask is who would be interested among you all in utilizing such an idea? Reserving a spot in the Hub itself would be like rent. Those pricings can be discussed later though. However my proposal is to see how many of you would like to utilize this hub for quicker trade amongst each other?"

The first to speak was none other than Takeo Tamiyo. The leader of the Tamiyo flashed a friendly smile before he spoke. "I would be most interested, Lord Tokugawa. If it pleases you, I wouldn't mind to join such a worthy endeavour. Trade is, after all, one of the matters that distinct us civilized, good citizens of the Empire from the barbarians that envy us."
Slowly settling himself down, the Tamiyo wasn't finished however.
"Maybe it could also serve to help establish some means of diplomatic schooling? If Lord Tokugawa allows me, I wouldn't mind to invest in such an establishment."

The second to reply back to the proposition of the Tokugawa was the Hon clan. Zakito observed the exchanges and made a mental note. Truth be told, he could see the value of trade but also knew that this wasn't going to be a charity event. Having a good hunch on what was offered at the side by the Tokugawa and Tamiyo, Zakito wondered.
Remaining seated, Zakito decided to speak up.
"A fine proposal, Lord Tokugawa and Lord Tamiyo. I would be keen to discuss such matters later with you. Though is it known where exactly this hub will be established? There are several urban centres already that have grown to become important centres of trade. It would be bad for business and the denizens of those cities to see important trade being steered away."

"I would like to know indeed where this trade hub is going to be build," the lady of the Yamanaka said, her gaze fixated on Leo Tokugawa. "As for the pricing, what would that be based off on, Lord Tokugawa?" Tsuru continued, her left eyebrow slightly perking up.
"For if you mean a trade hub to rest between the western sphere of the Empire towards the Imperial capital, I am afraid that most of my merchants wouldn't still require to travel through your lands. Unless, you are willing to make some special accomodations for some of us. At a reasonable pricing."

Following the conversation, Kiyomi's interest was piqued by the Tokugawa's suggestion. She briefly wondered how many more would flock. Trade and generating more wealth seemed to be matters that all were interested in. If it was only that easy to make different clans and people unite, Kiyomi mused to herself.
"A fine proposition, Lord Tokugawa," Kyiomi spoke up, "I am most interested myself to see how this new center of trade will fare."
Generating a soft silence that echoed her words, Kiyomi would await if there would be another dignitary that was going to speak up.
 
Operation: Dreadful Taste
[ Republic of Water | Kirigakure - Republican capital ]
[ Team Kukiko | A collab done between @Lilly , @Lesli , @Celestial Scorpio , @Sakayanagi Selko and @Gerontis ]
[ The team receives the mission to venture into the quarantine zone. It becomes quickly clear that the team is anything but excited to venture into the closed of districts of South Kirigakure. As they move out on the planned route to bring supplies to the quarantined populace, the team encounters some problems ]





Running through the alleyway, Karuko couldn't close in the distance. Some sounds and disturbance caused him to briefly throw a look over his shoulder. Spotting that Bashira and Yuyuko were in hot pursuit as well, Karuko reasoned that Neime and Aito were at the cart.
Seeing that there was little that he could do about this, he continued to chase the masked person.

The chase would lead the jounin and genin further into the alleyways until a dead end was hit. The masked person would slowly turn around to face the pursuers. A certain calmness could be detected.
Spotting this, Karuko's eyes narrowed. Most people would realise that they were in trouble. But yet it appeared as if the figure had no trouble with this situation.
"You two, keep the flanks and support me," Karuko instructed as the genin caught up. "See the space of this alley? It doesn't warrant large ninjutsu use if we don't want to harm each other."
Barely had the jounin finished his words or the masked person's head cocked to the right. Two gloved hands reached for the hilts over her shoulder. In a fluid motion, the unknown figure unsheathed two short blades and started to move forward.

"Caution, remember that." Karuko said as he drew his tanto. Moving forward as well, he would engage the masked enemy in a short bout. What simply lasted seconds before the jounin and masked person withdrew from each other, was enough to sour Karuko's mood even more. A few drops of blood fell to the ground from two cuts that the jounin had suffered.

As the three of them ran after the masked individual and ended up in a dead end with Karuko ordering them to flank him. Bashira took her position as the left flank and eyed the masked individual feeling slightly unnerved at the calmness coming from the unknown individual. As the individual unsheathed two short blades and started towards them Bashira drew five senbon from her pouch as she prepared to attack. Shira would prepare to throw three and hold the other two ready in the opposite hand. As Karruko and the individual withdrew from each other the white haired genin threw her readied three senbon and quickly switched the other two to her dominate hand. Bashira saw two of them hit the masked individual, but then fall to the ground soon after and her eyes went wide. "What the hell," Bashira whispered under her breath. She didn't take her eyes off the individual in case he came after her, and she hoped like hell that if the person did then her teammates would have her back despite her newness.

As Bashira took the left flank, Yuyuko moved to the right of Karuko as she reached into her back pocket for a set of 3 rounded pebbles wih her right hand, not exactly enough to harm anyone wearing armor but enough to create an opening as she did not want to waste her throwing weapons unlike disposable pebbles and if the person was not wearing armor or it hit an unprotected spot, at least it would harm them enough to cause some lasting injury, not that she expected it to happen while her other hand reached for Fuurai just in case she would need to draw it.
As Karuko moved and had a short engagement with the figure,she saw the blood from the Jounin's cuts from the bout indicating that Karuko was the only one hurt. As she concerned herself on how to follow up, Bashira was quick to move as Yuyuko saw 2 senbon sthrown by her teammate hit the masked figure but they soon fell to the ground which seemed weird.
"Let's try this." She said as she threw the 3 pebbles at the masked individual to test how he would react just in case her team mate or Karuko would notice the same weirdness she felt or maybe even more as the 3 pebbles she threw hit their mark, all of which bounced off as the figure had probably not felt the need to dodge.
"It could be….but still." Yuyuko considered as she readied Fuurai ready to intercept an attack towards Bashira if the masked figure came for her

Karuko's eyes narrowed as he noticed that the pebbles and senbons simply didn't seem to have any effect. It was much when he attempted to dig his tanto into the opponent - trying to disarm them with a coordinated strike. The impact had sent a vibration through his arm, as if he had hit something solid instead of tissue and skin.
Glad that the genin didn't engage in close quarters, Karuko decided to move in again. This time with his tanto shimmering in a menacing blue light.

The mysterious figure seemed to ignore the likes of the genin, the masked gaze turning to Karuko the moment that he moved in again. Instead of engaging the jounin simply in close quarters, the mysterious figure would throw her swords. One aimed each at the genin - at a rapid speed.
With Karuko closing in the distance, the figure simply seemed content to start evading his attacks or keep up the defense.

Yuyuko readied herself as she noticed the figure not caring about either the stones nor the senbon which meant for now, they were at the disadvantage.
As she tried to consider, she noticed the enemy about to throw two swords, one at least in her direction. Fearing for her team-mate,she jumped fast moving in the direction of Bashira to get between her and the figure as she gauging her timing to unsheath Fuurai using her Iaido slash to at the very least knock the second sword away since she should have dodged by moving to cover her team-mate as the genin was not sure how much help they both could handle so at the very least, both of them should try not to distract Karuko and provide support as best as possible,which to Yuyuko herself meant she should try to be the shield as outside of pebble and shuriken throwing, her ranged techniques are few if amy at the moment.

Bashira was still reeling from what happened with the senbon when she noticed the masked person throw the swords at both her and Yuyuko. She didn't have any weapons that could it knock the sword away and so her best option was to dodge it. Thankfully, Yuyuko was moving towards Bashira with her own weapon to knock the rapidly moving sword away from Bashira. With a quick dip of the head to thank Yuyuko the white haired genin would jump to the left and throw the other two senbon careful not to hit Karuko-Sensei. Shira cursed her luck as there was very little she could do to help her sensei.

Engaging in close quarters, Karuko noticed the ease that the opponent had in defending themselves. A sharp flash of blue shimmered brighter, originating from Karuko's tanto.
Managing to drive the opponent further back, Karuko's eyes narrowed.
Just as the masked opponent dodged a jab, Karuko would perform a quick sweep - a wide arc of chakra send flying, leaving a deep mark into the walls to the side.

The masked figure didn't seem to mind much that the thrown swords didn't seem to hit their assumed mark. Continuing to focus on defending themselves, the masked enemy brought their hands together by its last dodge. A sequence of handsigns performed and finished just when the violent arc of chakra was about to slice through the masked figure.
Instead of cloth and flesh, Karuko's chakra cut clean through a sword that appeared in a puff of smoke.

The sword that had been 'evaded' by Yuyuko was replaced by the masked figure, who reached for something. Pulling out something round, the masked figure would throw a round object against the ground. Within a mere second, intense grey smoke would fill the exit of the alleway.

As Yuyuko saw the fight go on, she frowned as it seemed the whole time that senbon was effectively useless along with any other small arms but at the same time Karuko at close combat range was also not getting any headway.
As she tried to make head or tail of it, her mind was sent into a panic as she saw Karuko's strike instead of eviscerating the foe, hit only air as the genin turned to try and sense where the foe was.
"Darm it,where is…"
She paled as she saw the foe appear where the evaded sword was which meant that the foe might have found an opening in their formation when she moved to defend Bashira.
As the foe was about to throw the round object, she jumped close to Bashira and covered her eyes with her hand as she said.
"Stay close! Damn.."
The genin said as she tried to keep close as now she had to make sure she did not lose track of the foe or Karuko in the smoke but unlike those two, she especially needed to look out for Bashira. As the two as a whole at least had to make up for their inexperience with numbers unlike Karuko, who had the experience. So she prioritised protecting Bashira waiting for either the smoke to clear, the enemy moving to attack her or Bashira or Karuko giving new orders.

Bashira didn't have much time to really process everything that had happened, and when the masked individual vanished only to reappear in the place of a sword she took a step back. "Shit…" Bashira muttered under her breath. She was particularly screwed if this person chose to attack her, and she doubted any of her jutsu would be enough to give her time to rethink her situation. With her senbon being useless, and her jutsu just as unlikely to do much she stayed close to Yuyuko. She was glad that her teammate seemed to understand how screwed she was if the situation didn't come to an end soon. Shira's instincts told her to stay quiet and stay low as she glanced around. All those years of slinking around the village unnoticed might actually save her life now.

With their opponent escaping, a grunt escaped Karuko. He stood still, still cautious as the smoke would dwindle to the ground. Seeing that neither of the genin had pursued their opponent, Karuko sheathed his weapon away.
"We have to rally with the others," he stated, though his tone gave away how disgruntled he was about the whole situation. "Stick close."



Neime frowned when one of the new genin asked her if they shouldn't follow Karuko. The Hayashi threw a look at the cart before back at Aito.
"And who defends the cart and supplies then?" Neime asked, though it was clear that the question was rhetorical as Neime continued. "Our mission was clear. Besides, Karuko is a jounin. Too many of us would get in the way."

Before Aito could reply, they would hear a soft thud from the direction they came. A masked figure stood in the door opening, holding a piece of crystal - broken from one of the corpses. Clearly eyeing Aito and Neime, the masked person would slightly tilt their head to the right - as if to question why they weren't running yet.

It made sense someone would have to secure the supplies and cart. It would have been bad if that was left unintended and put in the wrong hands. Aito went to respond but his attention was drawn to the thud. His eyes went to the figure as he watched them. The crystal visible, was this person causing the infection and spreading it? As their head tilted he knew they were prepared to attack. Quickly he began to use hand signs. Petals began to surround the pair, obscuring the figure's vision on them. "Neime, can you move the supplies by yourself? If we sit here and fight, it'll get in the way. I can distract them until they are clear." His words soft and fast as he spoke. He didn't like the idea but if they were to defend the supplies, fighting right on top of them would just destroy them. And surely once moved his teammate could help with back up.

The petals that began to surround the pair would soon be penetrated by various projectiles. Sharp shuriken of crystal would fly into the cloud and only a second later explode, the fragments sent soaring with high velocity through the air.

Neime shot a sideways look at Aito as he requested her to move the supplies. When the petal obscured their sight on the foe, Neime was about to say something. Only for their opponent to respond in force. Spotting the shuriken heading their way, Neime wanted to move out of the way. Only to get caught in the attack.
It happened faster than Neime could register as she caught sight of the various projectiles piercing through the petals, to explode into crystal shrapnel. Making evading nearly impossible at this range and speed.
Raising her arms, more out of instinct, to protect her face, Neime felt how the pain surged over her arms and body - indicating that she was hit on various places.

The first thought was pure panic, realising that they could be very well infected by now.
Staring at the places where the crystal had pierced through the cloth in her arms, Neime's feature started to become bleak. Throwing a look at their opponent, the Hayashi considered something. But the best bet was to get away, she figured.
Creating some space by moving further away, Neime tried to ignore how much her arms were shaking.

The plan was halted as shuriken came flying. The speed was almost unpredictable as the weapons flew, then out of nowhere, they exploded into shrapnel. Turning away from the impact, Aito felt as his back, arms and legs were hit. The pain had already kicked in as he saw Neime begin to move away. Just from the first attack, he knew they wouldn't last long in a fight, would it even be called that? Taking the hint the genin began to move further away as well. So much for protecting the supplies. His mind far from the crystals in his body, right now it was in flight mode as his adrenaline spiked.

The masked individual seemed to calmly watch as the two genin started to pull away from the cart. Taking a few steps to the cart, the unknown figure tossed the crystal aside and brought its gloved hands together. Barely a few signs were weaved or once Neime and Aito were dealing with crystal shuriken flying at them.

Keeping an eye on their masked foe, Neime quickly pulled out some shuriken out of her own pouch. Aiming, the Hayashi threw the projectiles to intercept the crystal counterparts - in hope to prevent them from raining more shards on her or on Aito.
Attempting to create a larger distance, so that she could retreat safely, Neime wondered briefly on if the mission had been compromised from the start. Biting on her lower lip, she decided it was best to focus on retreating for now.

The pair were barely able to move further before another attack came towards them. Aito was unsure how to defend against the attack but it had seemed Neime had an idea. Taking the idea he flung out a few shuriken on his own hoping it would intercept some of them as well. It had seemed some distance was now growing between them and the attacker as the figure stood by the cart. He had hoped they could get out of this alive and not catch the disease that plagued the area.


It took an hour or two before the team was rallied together. Under the leadership of Karuko, the genin stayed close as they moved to one of the exit points. Under strict watch, the team was reviewed by a few medical and sensory experts. Though both Neime and Aito had been dealing with a foe that utilized crystal, they weren't infected. There were no signs that the infection had set in or started to pollute their body.

The mission would be considered a failure, due to the loss of the supplies and the cart. While having suffered no wounded, the consequences would be a rise of unrest and several riots being sparked in the quarantine zone.
 
[ Empire of Akino | Imperial Rain Province ]
[ Yone Tsuji | Genin of the Imperial 4th Division ]
[ Operation: Foul Breath ]


Yone wasn't sure what to think of it all. In reality, she was happy that she was getting from Amegakure. The mission that she got assigned was refreshing and allowed her to do what she wanted: to see the world outside the cramped capital of the Rain province.
But out of anything, she wasn't expecting such a radical change.
For the past week, she had been allowed to accompany a band of traders that were heading to Vindex to sell some wares. No wares that were too interesting but this didn't seem to bother the travelling merchants at all. From what Yone understood, mundane and dull were good. Excitement and surprises were the least that a merchant required to make a profit.
Not fully understanding what one would find fascinating about trading wares and constantly travelling forth and back, Yone decided to not delve too deep. She had convinced the traders that she needed some transport and traveling with them would both provide that, together with some security. Posing herself as the daughter of an well-doing artisan in Amegakure, that needed to bring something to a distant family member in Vindex, she wasn't receiving much questions from the traders.

The travel was soothing. The pace was slow but that didn't bother Yone. It gave her time to ponder on the mission that she was sent on and also giving her a chance to see what laid outside Amegakure.
The first impression and sceneries did little to impress Yone. They were as what one would expect: dreary wet and badlands. The notorious rain continued to plague them nearly every day. Only the paved road providing the cartwheels and horse hooves a steady underground, as they slowly moved eastwards.
When they started to near the border with the Fire province, Yone saw the mountainous regions up ahead. It was a sight to behold, in her opinion. How the mountains seemed to reach towards the heavens, in an act of defiance while making everyone else seem small.
Staring at the mountains, Yone was silent. She had seen tall buildings. Amegakure was simply full of it. It had never bothered or impressed her that much. But this was nature, not man-crafted. There was something else to it.

[ Empire of Akino | Imperial Fire Province ]

Once arriving into the Fire province, it already felt like she had ventured into a whole different world. It certainly was lacking rain pouring from the sky nearly every day. And despite winter slowly ending, it felt warmer than the Rain. A nice change of pace, was what crossed Yone's mind first.
The villages that they passed weren't that memorable. And honestly, Yone didn't see much need to mingle with people yet.
Instead, she tried to come up with a plan.
Her mission was to gather information on Zealots. Since the last hostile exchange between the zealots and the people of the Rain, there had been some information that the zealots ventured eastwards during their escape at Amegakure.
Yone wasn't silly enough to think that she was the only operative send by Lord Commander Riojin, to deal with this. But she felt honoured that he had decided to lay such a responsibility upon her.
Recalling the information, however, made her realise what she was dealing with.

A bit of the information was that the killer of the previous Amegakure had likely fled eastwards as well. What they knew from the traces of chakra signature, that the murder had happened with lightning chakra.
Not much else has been figured out but Yone didn't that was weird. The whole name of Vindex, Tokugawa clan and Fire province was an entirely different place. Even if they were part of the Empire, Yone never had thought much of the great clans eastwards.
And even this trip made her frown and confused. She knew that clans had a reputation and it all depended on who you asked on what it was. But these Tokugawa seemed to be a confusing bunch.
Some viewed them with contempt, for their dasterdly deeds in the past. Preying on the weak and attacking those who weren't able to fully defend themselves. Yet others, such as the merchants, were praising the Tokugawa. Going as far that the Tokugawa resembled the Empire with the large variety of clans and cultures that resided in its borders.

Perhaps...
 
[ Empire of Akino | Imperial Rain Province ]
[ Etsu Yabut | Godaime Amekage | Amekage Office complex ]

Standing at the window, Etsu watched how the drops of rain continued to slide downwards. The grey and dull coloured buildings that formed spires, stretching to the sky somehow made the whole scenery more gloomy.
Half closing her eyes, Etsu wondered about something.
The zealots were beaten and other problems had to be tackled. But none of the problems could easily be solved with brute force. Cunning and resolve were required to deal such issues. More so, Etsu realised that her task wasn't just to the Rain province only.
Her position as the Amekage brought the responsibility to manage the 4th Imperial Division. While she had occupied herself before with organising and strategically positioning the troops, so that they could provide order and bring back stability, Etsu wasn't sure if they were good enough.

The Imperial military training wasn't something to scoff at but Etsu was aware that the Rain was the province that lacked anything to bring something substainel to the Empire. It wasn't financially strong to compete with the other provinces and had no strategic resources in large enough bulk to elevate themselves.
Her gaze slowly lowered, being able to view some of the streets up ahead.
There were, however, enough people residing in the province to make a difference.

Slowly turning to her desk, Etsu would take a seat behind it. Drawing up some paper and a pen, she started to scribble. The idea that started to gain momentum in her mind was expanded with questions and answers, from her own experiences.
If the Rain couldn't provide the means to redeem itself in economical matters, perhaps it could be done in showing the fortitude of its people?
The dire landscape would serve as excellent training ground and with the large number of people, Etsu was certain that she could raise regiments that would be willing to serve the Empire. All that it required was a large scale of preparation and resources. Something that she could arrange.
What more it required were the right people. There were already some Imperial forts and camps within the province. Knowing a few names, Etsu decided that she would reach out to them.

While the plan would rely much on what she could acquire, Etsu's lips already turned into a smile.
Where his predesuccessors had concern themselves about the people of the Rain, worrying about their future and how to secure it, Etsu now saw how they could reach for a better tomorrow. And take hold of it, all the while demanding respect from others.
 
Operation Bloody Mist
[ Republic of Water | Unknown Location within the Quarantine Zone ]
[ Yumi Hasewaga | a Scholae of the Empire of Akino ]​




Settling down, Yumi released a soft sigh. Sitting in the room, there was a disturbing sound plaguing the space. A constant drip of liquid, red in nature, falling to the ground and forming an ominous puddle on the ground.
Yumi didn't seem to care as she remained seated. For it had been a most productive day, in her opinion. Not only had she managed to infiltrate the quarantine zone, but she had also managed to intercept what seemed to be a supply run. Ambushing the small team that guarded the supplies were easily fooled and driven away from the cart. Though Yumi assumed that was because the Republican brass hadn't expected that anyone in the quarantine zone was eager to take a jounin head-on.
The moment that the report would return to the brass, Yumi was certain that the next ambush or attempt wouldn't be so easy. But she had now enough supplies to last for a while. Not to mention that she had managed to acquire a safehouse of some sort - thus a place from where she could dedicate her focus and limited resources for the real target.

Throwing a look at a map that was pinned against the wall to her left, she found it a bit annoying that she couldn't remain in touch with the very precious and few zero teams that had infiltrated Kirigakure during the tenure of Rika Suzu. Knowing the risks and fact that security in the whole city was higher than ever, Yumi did feel that her mission was only made near impossible.
For while the Republic was still reeling from the effects of the swift coup that had transpired, Yumi already foresaw that she wasn't able to complete all the objectives before the new regime could gain control over each island and institution that its predecessor had.
A soft sigh escaped Yumi's lips as she analyzed her current situation. For now, it was ironic but the harsh truth: the quarantine zone was the safest place to establish a base of operations. Though quarantines and tightly held by various forces, inside the quarantine there was little that kept Yumi's activities in check.
Besides, with the information of the Zero Teams, she had a few ways out. If she ignored the fact that there was a factor into play that she had no way to keep tabs on how viable each escape route of the quarantine was. Certainly, if she started to influence the situation further.

Throwing a look at the corpse Yumi frowned. For all purposes aside, she hadn't yet allied herself with anyone within the quarantine. It wasn't because she disliked being forced to teamplay but more because she had yet to figure some stuff out.
Like this crystal disease? Who had created? How to create a cure?
If anything, Yumi wasn't aware of crystal release users outside the empire. Seeing the rarity of crystal release, it could be argued that it was limited to a certain area in the world. But that didn't plug all the holes in that theory. Though if the Republic had one or more crystal release users, Yumi wondered how that could change the knowledge on a potential bloodline or clan from which it originated. Yet, if the Republic held such a source, Yumi wagered it would be best for Akino's interest to wipe it.
Then again, she continued to muse as she rose from her spot, certain other questions didn't seem to add up.

Coming to a halt, Yumi stared down at the corpse. Various crystal thorns protruded the body. The material was brittle but quite sharp, enough to cut human skin with ease but not endurable enough to puncture through protective gear. Not the most efficient combat or assassination technique, Yumi thought as she grabbed hold of a thorn.
Easily breaking it off, she wasn't scared to become infected. She had came to realise that she could use her crystal abilities to counter it. If anything, a possible cure could be in developing a counter crystal release technique. But for now? Yumi didn't see much sense in developing that. Not to help the Republic, at least.
Placing the broken thorn off, Yumi investigated the place from which the crystal had exited the body. Interestingly enough, the wound seemed almost entirely closed off. From what she could see was that the veins were targeted, which made sense. If what knowledge was passed by the Zero teams, it seemed that it was an infection. So something in blood seemed to encourage the growth of crystal.
Pulling out a knife, Yumi would carefully carve a piece around the wound. From what she saw and experienced were much like the others. There were some chunks of crystal that she could find in the body. Growing tumors that would sooner or later start to expand towards a surface, cutting and pushing from inside to the outside. It had led to Yumi trying to investigate if the infection avoided or was attracted to certain organs. But right now, it seemed that wasn't the case.
All the cases seemed to appear that a person would get infected. The small crystal would go into the body, where it started to grow. To likely then get access to a vein, from which it could spread across the body. Only to the point of where the infection started to create thorns, finalizing the death sentence that a victim was doomed to.

"That is if they don't have some mastery over crystal release," Yumi thought to herself as she placed her hands on the table. Leaning over the corpse, she was certain that there was more to it. Something like this shouldn't expand over a large zone. Not if something was behind it, continuing either infecting people and risking the chance that the Republican Intelligence Division, the Shiranui.
Another possibility was that the constant infection cases was instigated and continued by the previous or current regime. An interesting case, Yumi pondered, as it could very well lead to a possible weapon of some sorts. And who wouldn't pay the hefty price of some unnamed, unimportant civilians to perhaps take down a lethal threat to the nation?
"Like say, the ruler of a neighbouring empire that also has the Nibi leashed," Yumi further thought to herself.

Scoffing lightly, Yumi did doubt something like this could be deployed against the likes of Kiyomi. For there were more flaws to this crystal infection. Seeing it was crystal release, lightning release users were a hard counter. Possibly also leading to a cure of some lightning treatment but Yumi was certain that could also lead to some unwanted results - likely scorched patients or those too weakened to survive such a harsh treatment.
"There is the possibility that this the work of someone that opposes the current regime. Or tried to oppose the previous regime," Yumi mused as she would turn away from the body, to walk towards the detailed and large map of Kirigakure.
"It may work in my advantage to lay contact to this person or faction. Preferably without giving up my true nature and allegiance, of course."

Staring at the map, she figured that she could turn to more fieldwork. And with the stolen resources, she had some means to trade and negotiate with perhaps even the locals. To try to wringle more information out of them.
 
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