♥ the hanging gardens

[daisy]

[style=font-family: arial black; color: ff6a6a; line-height: 9px; margin-left: 68px; margin-bottom: -30px; margin-top: 30px; letter-spacing: -1px; font-size: 24px; text-align: left; font-weight: bold]tell me i'm[/style][style=font-family: arial black; color: dc143c; line-height: 9px; margin-left: 128px; margin-right: -28px; margin-bottom: -40px; margin-top: 40px; letter-spacing: -1px; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; font-weight: bold]your national anthem[/style][style=float: right; margin: 9px 70px 0px 9px; background: url(http://i.imgur.com/UQu31.png); width: 100px; height: 100px;] [/style][style=width:400px; padding:67px 7px 7px 7px; font-size:11px; text-align:justify; font-family:tahoma; line-height: 13px; border: 4px solid ffadb9; border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px;]Was he gone? I'd wanted some peace, and time to appreciate the new gardens, but i'd been forced to storm off for dramatic effect. In truth, i'd just hidden amongst the plants until it looked like he'd left. Perhaps not entirely fitting for a kage, but i did tend to do things my own way. As i stepped gracefully out of a flower bed, taking great care not to trample my dear flowers, i spied a sweet little kunoichi appreciating the blooms. The white dress with a splash of red in her hair was a wonderful combination. Oh, it did my heart good to see the girls of my village care about their appearance.

"Darling!" I called, hoping she hadn't seen my unorthodox appearance from amid the flowers.
"Rosario, wasn't it?" I asked, adjusting my wrap about my shoulders as i teetered towards her. What good fortune, meeting one of my very few chuunin in the gardens like this. I hoped she wouldn't mind talking business, at least briefly, in such a peaceful place. I closed the gap, and slipped elegantly onto the bench beside her, smiling my trademark crimson grin.

"You may not remember me from my previous reign. Coco von Alexandria Valentino, returning Tsuchikage!" I trilled, rummaging in my handbag as i spoke.
"I know it's rather sudden, but i do so need a favour of you dear." I added, as i found my tube of lipgloss. Applying it lightly, i admired her outfit a tad more. It was undoubtedly rather silly of me, but i felt much more confidence in a person if they dressed well.

[/style]

[Superguest]

Kouhei stared up at the building that housed the hanging gardens. His eyes squinted as they tried in futile to make out just how many tiers the gardens utilized in order to accentuate its beauty. After a minute Kouhei finally gave up trying to count them all realizing he would only lose count and be forced to start over. It didn’t matter how many tiers were built any way since their beauty was pale in comparison to true art. If he wanted his creations could easily dismantle this supposed beauty in a fashion that would force anyone within Iwagakure no Sato to stare in awe at its grace and explosive radiance. However, Kouhei would never dare commit such an act. Not only would it only bring the ire of people he would try and win over, but it would be a waste of lives. He could bring his little friends, his creations, back to life as much as he wanted, but he would spare them pain if he could. Just thinking of his little friends made him wish he could withdraw some clay and form one or two to converse with. Unfortunately, now was not the time.

Kouhei had been woken in the morning by a messenger of the Tsuchikage’s. The servant of the Kage had given Kouhei a notice that notified him that he was supposed to meet the Kage at this place and at this time. For the life of Kouhei he could not even begin to fathom what the Kage wished of him. Kouhei was still a fairly recent graduate of the academy and although he had showed some promise he didn’t think any of his teachers would have bothered to talk to the Kage on his behalf. Whatever the reason Kouhei was eager to please the leader of the village. Perhaps if he proved himself and the Kage liked him the other villagers would come to accept him. Kouhei was sure that all he needed was some goodwill and the villagers would begin to trust him and be willing to be his friend. For some good friends Kouhei was willing to endure a little hardship regardless of the dangers. The Genin felt confident that whatever Kage Coco had planned for him Kouhei would be able to handle it. His art is the grandest gift the shinobi world has ever seen and through it not only would Kouhei make this world a little bit more wondrous, but he would ensure that whatever challenges came before him his art’s splendor would overcome it.

Kouhei wasted no time racing up the steps of the gardens. He knew the rules and did his best to not step on any grass in his haste. The Kage was very strict about beauty and the rules of such a place were known well amongst the villagers. It only took a couple of flights before Kouhei heard voices, rather a voice. Although he had yet to meet the Tsuchikage in person there was no mistaking the voice. Kouhei slowed his gait so that he was walking normally as he drew nearer. Panting and jogging towards the Kage would not seem cool and wouldn’t help to make him friends. When he was finally on the scene he could see the Kage was talking to someone that Kouhei did not know. His heart suddenly fluttered for an instant as the prospect of making two friends in one day suddenly filled him with a surge of nervous excitement. The Genin did what he could to calm himself as he approached the pair and bowed before his Kage. He then spoke, ”I am sorry to intrude. Kouhei, at your service Tsuchikage. I was told to see you out at this time.” Kouhei did his best to remain calm as he smiled nervously, his sharp fangs glinting in the light.

[kama]

Coco von Alexandria Valentino!

Amusing, who would guess that on her way to the tower she would find the one she was looking for? Certainly, not a familiar face, though the name was a familiar one indeed. Despite not being in touch with the recent village's events the female Chuunin had always heard rumours and stories, the name had quite a fame.

"So I'm assuming Slave could not go with the job"

[/right]

With a muted laugh and a smile on face the kunoichi shall proceed on listening to what the Tsuchikage had to say as she "inspected" the female in front of her. What people said about Coco was nothing but true, the fashionist behind the kunoichi was extravagant yet amusing. Every single detail on her outfit was not there by mere coincidence, even the smallest accessory had its purpose.

"No need to apologize"

Shall the silver haired kunoichi exclaim as a bow was made, holding opposite sides of her dress with her hands in such an elegant yet respectul way.

"At your services madame Coco"

As the illusionist's statement would be over a new guest shall appear on the scene, and by the introduction made by himself, this new stranger was no one but an ally, a genin of the village, the fresh new force of the stone.

Turning her sight back to Coco, Rosario would await for an explanation of the boy's presence, that if there was any.

[/font][/blockquote][/blockquote]

[daisy]

[style=font-family: arial black; color: ff6a6a; line-height: 9px; margin-left: 68px; margin-bottom: -30px; margin-top: 30px; letter-spacing: -1px; font-size: 24px; text-align: left; font-weight: bold]tell me i'm[/style][style=font-family: arial black; color: dc143c; line-height: 9px; margin-left: 128px; margin-right: -28px; margin-bottom: -40px; margin-top: 40px; letter-spacing: -1px; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; font-weight: bold]your national anthem[/style][style=float: right; margin: 9px 70px 0px 9px; background: url(http://i.imgur.com/UQu31.png); width: 100px; height: 100px;] [/style][style=width:400px; padding:67px 7px 7px 7px; font-size:11px; text-align:justify; font-family:tahoma; line-height: 13px; border: 4px solid ffadb9; border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px;]Oh darling! Such poise and etiquette! I had to place a hand upon my chest at her little curtsy. She was simply perfect. And she seemed to have no qualms with me springing a request on her, just like a true shinobi. Why oh why couldn't all my shinobi be like this? I crossed my long legs as i returned my lipgloss to my handbag, and then turned as a new arrival made himself known. I'd asked him to come? I simply couldn't recall... Probably Rosa, organising things i'd overlooked as per usual. Either way, it was quite the perfect scenario.

"Wonderful! Lovely to meet you Kouhei." Such a pretty little blonde thing he was. I wondered if he'd allow me to apply a dab of blush? Perhaps some mascara and shadow... But i was getting distracted.
"This sweet young lady is your new squad leader! I know it's rather sudden, but i need you both to head over to the land of grass." I explained. I hoped it wouldn't be too much hassle. Although i was their kage, and could technically just order them off on their way, it was a terribly uncouth manner of handling things.

"Here, the details~" I said, fishing out a slip of paper from my handbag and handing it to Rosario.

SPOILER: Click to show

name: growing grass!
rank: b
description: i need a message delivered to kusagakure. it's been some time since i've had news of the village, so while you're there, please do a little sightseeing. nothing sinister now darlings, i wish to remain on entirely friendly terms with the kusakage! think of this as a work-related holiday, on me, of course.
objective: deliver a letter to the kusakage, and take in the sights of grass! (visit a spa!)
client: tsuchikage coco
reward: 100 exp, 3000 ryo

"The letter i want delivered is attached. And here, the location of grass." I added, rummaging once more for my map, and marking grass's location down on the mission information. That was all the details, right? I didn't want to send my dear shinobi off without all the necessary information.
"Think of this as more of a trip, rather than a mission. I want you to enjoy yourselves dears!" I cooed, smiling up at them both.

"Now, any questions?" I asked, clapping my bejeweled hands together. Official business didn't have to be a chore after all!
[/style]

[Superguest]

As Kouhei waited patiently his eyes looked over the other woman who was accompanying the Tsuchikage. The girl was not someone Kouhei had met before, but she was indeed a member of the village, he could ascertain that much. The way she carried herself was not fooling Kouhei. The Genin was fairly certain that if he made a move for her in that instant she would be able to respond with honed reflexes. One simply couldn’t maintain a relaxed stature while simultaneously ready to move in an instant without having the intense lifelong training of a shinobi. However, there was the possibility that she wasn’t a member of the village. The chances were unlikely, but if she was than the Kage was in the middle of machinations that Kouhei did not even want to remotely acknowledge. Working with nuke nin or shinobi with another village usually meant bigger things were a foot and Kouhei was a bit too inexperienced to want to jump into the deep end just yet. The simplest answer is usually the correct one, but Kouhei allowed his mind to play with the idea of conspiracies and espionage to help pass the precious seconds before the Kage acknowledge him and supplied an answer to his inner query.

His Kage wasted no time dispersing any of the fanciful thoughts he was having. His eyes darted back to the young woman who was to be his Squad Leader. She didn’t look much older than him, but she must have been fairly strong for the Kage to place her in charge. Kouhei couldn’t help, but wonder what sort of ordeals the woman must have gone through to place her in such a position that she could lead a Genin anywhere let alone into another country, to another village. Regardless, he was more than happy to listen to his Kage and perform this endeavor. As he listened to Kage Coco’s continued instructions he allowed himself a quick peek at the paper she had handed to his Squad Leader. The ninja’s trained eyes took note of the location of Kusagakure no Sato and the quickest route to their destination. His mouth curled into a smile as he listened to the Kage describe their mission as a trip, but inwardly wondered if it would truly be that easy.

When he was sure his Kage had said everything she was going to he reached into his pocket and withdrew two pieces of clay. It would take some time before the jutsu was ready, but he allowed the clay blobs to slide into the mouth within his hand, the secondary mouth chewing and infusing his chakra. As his hand worked diligently he spoke, ”Are we to simply deliver this message to the first attendant we meet at the Kusakage’s office or is a more formal meeting required to ensure it is delivered safely into his hands? Furthermore, while we sightsee is there anything in particular you think we should see? Anything you might want us to bring back, some Kusagakure no Sato native flowers to plant amongst our own in the garden perhaps?” Frankly Kouhei could have cared less about what flowers to bring back, but asking the questions showed some initiative and showed he was willing to go that extra bit. His friends, the creations, had always told him if you want to make friends you need to be willing to give that extra effort. Besides the more time they spent in the village the more time he spent alongside his new Squad Leader and thus the greater the chance the two of them could become fast friends. With no one else she might know to converse with she would have no choice, but to socialize with Kouhei. He liked this mission already.

SPOILER: Click to show

Kibaku-Nendo • C1 "Shī Wan" Tora Nigeru (Exploding Clay • C1 Getaway Bird)
Rank: C
Type: Ninjutsu Supplementary
Range: See Special
Handseals: No.
Chakra: Mid
Special: Bird is two meters in wingspan. Only capable of sustaining the weight of one or two average sized people. Capable of flight. Explosion range of 5 meters in radius. Bomb can only move as far away from user as highest ranked 'Kouguchi Bakuha' known. Creation time is same as highest ranked 'Kibaku Iritsuku' known. Requires two standard clay blobs.
Description: Molding clay into a tiny bird about the size of a C1 bomb, the user can then perform a special handseal to make the the bird expand into a size in which it can hold one or two people and sustain flight. Just like C1, the user can control where the bird moves, but what differs this bird from what's created in C2, is the size and the inability to do anything other than support the user for flight and explode.
Domain: Kibaku-Nendo, Kibaku-Nendo • C1 "Shī Wan" 'C' Rank

Will take 2 turns due to rank in Clay infusion

[kama]

Paid Vacations!

Things turned out not as expected, what at first seemed to be normal stroll through the garden the silver haired lady not only had a mission on her hands, but what seemed to be a team under her leadership, quite changes from Tsuchikages. As the boy spoke the illusionist began to make plans on her hands about the jopurney, surely, she will need to do a few things before going away.

"Of course the Tsuchikage asked for something in particular"

The kunoichi replied to the genin's statement. Slowly moving her right hand, the one holding the mission to the boy's face for him to read she would continue.

"We have to go to a spa"

She concluded, despite Rosario was not the type of getting social nor going to a spa type of girl, a mission was a mission, and an order was an order. She was just the perfect war machine, following orders without hesitating nor doing questions.

"However, before we go, there are a few things I must do before"

The girl said to both of them while waving the low part of her dress, in some kind of way to show them both that she could not go on a mission dressed like that.

"So, if you both excuse me, and if there is no other particular for now, shall the mission commence!"

[/b]

Hading the mission to Kouhei, the lady shall turn to see both of them, awaiting for a response to be done, and in case if there would be any the kunoichi actions shall depend on it, remaining on the site or going back home to get dressed for the mission.

As soon as the genin shall accept the mission request, the kunoichi shall put the letter for the kusakage on her pocket, where should remain until arrived, nor her, nor any member of the squad shall even put a hand on it until the mission is over.

[/font][/blockquote][/blockquote]

[daisy]

[style=font-family: arial black; color: ff6a6a; line-height: 9px; margin-left: 68px; margin-bottom: -30px; margin-top: 30px; letter-spacing: -1px; font-size: 24px; text-align: left; font-weight: bold]tell me i'm[/style][style=font-family: arial black; color: dc143c; line-height: 9px; margin-left: 128px; margin-right: -28px; margin-bottom: -40px; margin-top: 40px; letter-spacing: -1px; font-size: 16px; text-align: left; font-weight: bold]your national anthem[/style][style=float: right; margin: 9px 70px 0px 9px; background: url(http://i.imgur.com/UQu31.png); width: 100px; height: 100px;] [/style][style=width:400px; padding:67px 7px 7px 7px; font-size:11px; text-align:justify; font-family:tahoma; line-height: 13px; border: 4px solid ffadb9; border-radius: 10px 10px 10px 10px;]"I'd prefer you hand it directly to Lady Blanche, if at all possible. If of course, she is indisposed or unavailable, a trustworthy aide or subordinate will be sufficient, as long as it reaches her." The genin's attentiveness was impressive. I hadn't even thought about flowers.

"No, no, my dear. I just want you to broaden your horizons a little. Grass is a terribly different land to our own. I want you to see what lies beyond your dusty little home!" I said with a laugh. It appeared Rosario was rather more clinical about the whole mission, and i had absolute faith in her.

"Of course, an outfit change!" I trilled. I was happy. It looked like this would go off without a hitch.

"Very well then. Please, stay safe darlings. Give the Kusakage my best wishes!" And with that i took my leave.

[exit!]

[/style]

[Superguest]

Kouhei waited patiently for a response his hand continuing to work on creating the jutsu in question. It was true that the shinobi had gotten considerably better at molding his chakra within the clay, but it still required time. If the Genin wanted to have any hope of being helpful in battle he would have to continue working and perfecting his techniques until he could perform them without even sparing a second. For now his abilities would have to do and he was hoping the technique he did have would come quiet useful in the long trek to Kusagakure no Sato. Even two highly skilled shinobi could run into all manner of trouble out in the open while traveling to a foreign nation so being able to travel through alternate means would prove highly favorable for them. Kouhei had yet to ever try and use his technique for such an extended journey, but it would be interesting to see just how much he could strain himself to ensure they arrived safely at their destination. It would be a training of sorts and while they were up in the air and out of harm’s way it would be the perfect chance for him to get his Squad Leader better.

Kouhei’s gaze turned to regard his new Leader as she spoke directly at him pointing to the note where it had mentioned that they go visit a spa. Unlike his Leader he had not taken the suggestion so literally, but he wasn’t exactly in a place to argue with her. If they wanted to make it through this mission without any problems he would need to respect the chain of command and follow her orders. Besides, if he tried to argue with her it would only create a strain on their just budding relationship and Kouhei wanted to nurture their friendship. Kouhei nodded his head in recognition of her words and then wondered just what she needed to do before they embark. Perhaps she did not have all the equipment she needed for an extended journey outside of the village? Kouhei had everything he needed on his persons, but he was more than willing to be patient while the other member of his squad prepared herself.

Kouhei might have asked her directly what she was hoping to do, but just than the Tsuchikage spoke and his direction fell squarely upon her, as it rightly should have. Kouhei listened attentively as the Kage instructed them further. From what the Genin had ascertained of the position of Kage it didn’t exactly come with a lot of free time. He couldn’t help, but wonder if the Kusakage would have the time or desire to even meet with their squad. It was true they were representatives of the Tsuchikage, but he didn’t think their rank warranted a personal meeting. Perhaps he would be wrong and the group would get the meeting they desired. One could only remain hopeful after all. Kouhei was quickly relieved when he discovered he would not need to pick any flowers on this mission. That sort of task was normally considered a D-rank mission and he felt it would sully the fairly high ranked mission of venturing into foreign territory. The conversation finally ended with the Tsuchikage giving her farewells before finally taking her leave. The Genin only bowed out of respect as he watched his superior leave their presence. A part of him couldn’t help, but feel bad that the Kage would not be joining them on their mission. He understood that she obviously couldn’t leave the village, but the journey would have given him the chance to befriend her as well. With all their affairs seemingly settled Kouhei tossed the now finished bird upon the floor performing a handseal to make it grow large enough for him to ride upon. He then turned to his Squad Leader, ”I will meet you at the gates in an hour or so to give you a chance to prepare your things, unless you have an objection. From there I’m following your orders however you see fit so please take care of me.” Kouhei was then off, flying towards the gates.

[EXIT]

[kama]

[sorry for the late post, school is the biggest bitch ever]

Until then!

With a slow and soft turn the kunoichi shall dissapear from the scene not beforing nodding to the genin's statement of meeting them at the gates. With that, she would head home for a more suitable outfit.

[/blockquote][/blockquote][/quote]

[exit]

[vegapunk]

18 EXP @ Kama

30 EXP @ Superguest

27 EXP @ Daisy

[daisy]

I needed to clear my head. Preparations were underway for our assault on the Sand, yet my mind was far from ready. Decided, yes, but not quite ready. There was no backing down, no turning away from the path i'd set us all upon. And i wasn't questioning my decision, merely anxious for the result. That partially explained my presence here. I found solace and reflection amongst the flowers. Yet i also needed somewhere quiet to meet with a certain Chuunin. I did hope he wouldn't be too long.

Did everybody see the way i did? Certainly, at the meeting, nobody had been opposed to my declaration of war. Nor even my plan, unless you counted Seidou, which somehow, i never did. Yet it was my responsibility to ensure the safety of my shinobi. Obviously, in such a fight, there were going to inevitably be casualties, but if i could, i would protect each and every one of them. I wanted them all home safely.

But we wouldn't march out until every last detail had been analysed. At least at this stage, before the actual fighting, my strengths could shine. There was always a tasty new morsel of information getting itself snared in my web, after all.

[DEVIL—]

I wonda wha tha Tsuchikage be wantin' wit me, Bass mused as he diddy-bopped through dry, windy streets of Iwagakure. He'd received a letter about some meeting he'd missed; it was probably when he'd got duped on border patrol and had to handle that nasty little Kusa-nin. Actually, the entire ordeal had completely slipped his mind -- he still had the pretty girl's head band, though he wasn't sure he wanted to give that up. He still hadn't paid her a visit.

Climbin' the nearest building, Bass took the "high road" to the gardens. Punctuality wasn't typically his thing, but this was his leader: probably the only female he was ready to actually lay down his life for. He wanted to show her she'd made a good decision in promotin' him to Chuunin, at the very least.

With a sudden gust, the dark-skinned, white-haired youngin' appeared no more than a couple of feet from his benevolent leader. Geared in his usual attire, he gave a deep bow. "Lady Tsuchikage," he chirped happily. "How might I be of service to ya on such a fine, hot day?"

[daisy]

He always did sound rather strange. I wonder where he picked up that accent? Regardless, his presence was welcome. I supposed it was rather short notice, to call him here, and i appreciated his speedy arrival. I was taller than him, at least with my heels on, as was the usual with the males i met. Regardless, he was handsome. I wasn't sure about the fashion choices though. I did hope he could hear me over those headphones.
"My, my, my. Nice to see you again." I said warmly, turning from the flowers i had been observing to look at him. Straight to business, it seemed. Although that was unexpected, considering the news i'd relayed in my short message.

"As you know, there was a meeting. We discussed our relationship with Sunagakure, and ultimately, we'll be going to war with them." I paused to gauge his reaction.
"You're a Chuunin of Iwagakure, and a reliable shinobi. I'll be needing your help, darling. I want to... I want to keep everyone safe. I'm well aware of the nature of war, and the inevitable casualties. But just maybe, we can all make it back safely. If you help me." I probably sounded terribly unprofessional. But i found it best to be honest, at least with my own subordinates. With Kusuna at my side, perhaps... Well, regardless, his explosive abilities would be more than perfect for my team's job.

"I can count on you, no?"

[DEVIL—]

Ah, tha whole deal with Sunagakure. Can't say that I'm surprised - they been a thorn in Lady Coco's side for a hot minute now. Strange, though, that she seemed so temperamental about it all. Bass had never questioned his superiors orders, regardless of how questionable they might've been. He was a shinobi -- born and raised -- and the one thing his family had taught him was loyalty; loyalty to his village and his Kage. Regardless of if Coco wanted to start a war, or fly to the moon, it was his duty as her shinobi to make sure that it happened.

"Lady Tsuchikage," he began humbly, slipping the head phones back and around his neck, "Ya be knowin' I'm a ninja, and we all be knowin' that you are the Kage. I'm not sure what kinda ninja ya had in the past, but I stand beside any decision that ya make. If that means crushin' Suna into dust, then so be it."

His smile was broad and strong; unwavering as the founding stones of their home. "I am ya weapon to use as ya see fit. All of my abilities, and resources, are at your disposal."

[daisy]

Cut and dried. It seemed i'd gotten used to the strangeness of some of my shinobi, and had all but forgotten how your typical ninja acted. It was refreshing, yet also slightly disconcerting.
"I appreciate your co-operation, yet... I don't want my shinobi to become machines. Orders are to be followed, and we must always adhere to the mission, but i want you to feel. I want you to have your own opinions, your own morals. You're not just a weapon, Miroku." My, how sentimental i was getting in my old age.

I laughed, off-handedly.
"Forgive me, i've been thinking rather too much recently dear. Here, the assault details thus far." I handed him a small pink envelope, which contained the dividing of our forces, the team objectives and our general tactics and protocol.
"Do you have any input or concerns in general? Everyone seems to have taken it in their stride, but we are officially declaring war on another hidden village. I'm still rather nervous myself!"

I sighed, turning away from him to look at my beloved blossoms once more. The colours were so soothing. The way such beautiful flowers could bloom even in our own arid land, it was quite remarkable. I turned back to him quickly, as i recalled something.
"Oh, and here! It's a radio headset. I bought enough for all the commanding shinobi." I handed him the device. Although they'd been expensive, i deemed it more than necessary, considering the gravity of our plan.