Behind obscurity lies what? [genbu]

[Sayomi]

The fated day had come for Masumi to make use of Kouketsu, he'd escort her to the lands of Hi no Kuni and than even further into the lands of a possible enemy who's intentions were unclear to the Mizukage. At the gates she waited, her wild fiery haired veiled with her kage hat that shadowed her cunning face. Masumi dawned a black cloak tied by a buckler at her chest. The sun had just awaken, peaking around the horizon was blocked by clouds, leaving a smokey look about the area. The ground, was filled with the almost lively mist that clung like a parasite. Their trek would began early and fade on into the time where the sun would set and night fall would blanket the shinobi world.

Prior to her leave she had discussed several things with the Village elders and was greeted off by them with adoration and wishes of good luck. She'd let no one know that she herself had not actually left, leaving a shadow clone in her stead to take the trek. The guards at the gates were like statues who's gazes were forever transfixed in stone. Having never gone outside of her country except for to the harsh lands of tetsu no kuni, Masumi was actually somewhat excited to expand her view on the world, maybe seeing how the village of Konoha operated would give the newly appointed kage insight about how to better construct and run her own home.

Checking her items she made sure she had all of her needed accessories. She wasn't going looking to leap into action and danger, but with the overall situation shadowed in black, one could never be too prepared she thought, after all she was walking into the clutches of someone who was neither ally nor foe, so their intent was unknown. Tapping her feet softly against the ground the Mizukage hummed softly as she awaited her escort.

[King]

Abrupt.

There wasn't any tell-tale hint, or even a fleeting suspicion, that could've given the man's arrival away to the Mizukage. As I've already stated, he very abruptly appeared at her left side, silent and stoic in his eerie glory. He donned the standard white-robes she'd given him, the matching porcelain mask, and a startling off-set pair of black gloves. The only items he carried with him was the lone blade fastened to the small of his back, and the utility pouch just shy of the weapon's western flank.

Fully evolved eyes¹ glanced over the Mizukage's frame once, revealing all the information he needed. "A wise choice," he admired from behind his mask.

Those same eyes immediately reverted to their lesser state, taking on a slate and dull onyx hue. As her escort, he'd allow her to take the first step in their long journey to the land of fire. It'd been quite some time since he last visited the fabled forests of Hi no Kuni - almost ten full years, since his previous defect.

This would give him the opportunity he needed to tie up some loose ends.

[Sayomi]

With his sudden arrival she scanned over her escort with prying, powerful eyes crafted of sapphire, gorgeous gems that sparkled beneath the dull shine of amber above. He was outfitted in standard uniform, dawning but a single blade. "Let us go." Nodding whilst she spoke, she'd break into a slow steady sprint, her feet gently tapping the ground with artistry. Her form was like that of a gazelle leaping as she made her way into the thick-the heart of Mizu no Kuni, the swampy, thick forest swallowing her whole.

She had no need to keep tabs on Kouketsu she was sure like a shadow he lurked behind her every step. It felt somewhat relaxing to have a guard Masumi thought to herself, there was no need for her gaze to jump about constantly she had no need to turn around and check her rear, she only needed to focus on moving her legs so that they got to where they were going. With her hair flowing wildly behind her like a cape she jumped up, catching a branch and flinging herself onto the canopies above she began moving faster and faster.

It wouldn't be long now until they got to the docks.

[King]

If one dared compare the Mizukage to a gazelle, they would be equally justified to compare her white-robed companion to a prowling lion. While he moved with a deathly grace, each stride of his legs rippled with visible power. Even his frighteningly pale clothing almost melded in with the darkness of their background, barely even a blur against the settled veil of mist.

And very much like a shadow, as the Mizukage transcended to the canopy of the forest, he followed with a single thrust from both legs. She was effortlessly matched step for step, maintaining a position just south of her western flank. Though relaxed within the boundaries of their own country, he did well to keep on his guard.

Assassins always took every opportunity they could.

[Sayomi]

Before long her powerful strides brought her to the edge of the forest's reach, the foggy countryside within view now as Masumi descended with feline grace and fluidity. Her speed had slowed somewhat as she approached the dock where the shoreline was embraced by the sea water. Gently it brushed against the sand, the Mizukage now walked normally as she gazed at the sun. Over the horizon it bloomed extravagantly, oblique light shimmering upon the waning surface of the ocean.

"We'll go by boat from here Kouketsu."

Into the small boat she stepped, taking her place at the back she awaited him join so that they could hurry on t heir journey. Though excited she wasn't too thrilled to leave her home behind although she knew she was doing it for a good reason. She could no longer allow things to lie in wait, bathed in the darkness.

[King]

Once Masumi had comfortably taken her position on the boat, Kouketsu then took his own. It wasn't a large boat nor was it lavish. It was meant for very specific uses, such as shuttling the Mizukage and her escort(s) to the main land whenever it was that they needed. The ferry man was a much older individual, with rotted teeth and thin hair. He wore a large rice-hat that obscured much of his face, but he was known and trusted by Kouketsu.

It wasn't the most impressive of jobs, but it'd passed down generation to generation.

Rather than sit, Kouketsu stood as they bested the small waves separating Mizu no Kuni from the continent. He couldn't imagine what business Masumi had with the Leaf, especially considering the volatile terms he'd left Mist with concerning them. The possibility of their wouldbe assassination attempt when he was in power was still fresh in his mind, and he definitely wouldn't pass the opportunity to pay them back were it to arise.

Still, he remained silent.

[Sayomi]

With Kouketsu on board the old man simply smiled, his visage shadowed by his worn rice hat he'd began ushering them to the vibrant lands of Hi no Kuni as they naviagted the calm waves that would crash against the bottom of the boat. Their trip was one filled of silence, not a word was spoken between Masumi and Kouketsu; only the soft sound of the elements could be heard. The singing of the birds, chirping of the insects, the dancing of the wind, and the humming of the earth. Left to her thoughts she receded into her mind, running through the many possibilities that could happen during her meeting with the Hokage.

move to Hi no Kuni

The memory of how she felt when she learned the previous kage before her was assaulted in his own office, it boiled her blood and blinded her sight. Teeth clenching for a moment she hadn't realized they'd already made it to the shores of Hi no Kuni. The world although seen through the same eyes, appeared different. It was all so clear, so bright, so cheerful. "So this is the fire country?" Masumi said softly as she found her gaze wandering around. Stepping from the boat she made her way into the mainland, waving their ferryman, he'd wait there for their return. Such was his duty.

"Shall we continue Kouketsu?"

[Trigga]

^moved!

[King]

Kouketsu nodded to her in response as he stepped from the boat, turning his attention to the old ferry man. Though he looked decrepit, he was more capable than many of the younger shinobi in most villages. His age was a mask - a lie to cover up the murderous intent bubbling beneath the wrinkly flesh. Though they'd arrived at a seemingly peaceful dock, were there any foolish enough to tempt him, the ferry man would reveal a rather disastrous secret. Yet, despite the strong sense of understanding between the two, only a nod was given.

This was also the first time since their departure from Kirigakure that instead of trekking behind the Mizukage, Kouketsu stepped boldly ahead of her. His back was still turned to her, and just to ensure she had no intention on passing him, his right arm branched out, barring her path. He gave no reason or explanation for the sudden shift in demeanor or stance, however, considering it was his duty to protect her, he figured it would be quite obvious.

Clearly, they weren't alone.

[marvolous.]

The forests, the trees, the unyielding calmness that hung about this land - they were all too much for me, and even after having been here for several months now, I still could not tolerate them. It was an almost restricting feeling that they brought on me, so I found myself traversing as far away from it as my legs guided me. It didn't take me long to reach the end of Hi no Kuni, and by the time I arrived it was quite apparent that I, too, wasn't alone.

I was a foreigner to this land so I kept to the shadows. Even with being so far out from Konohagakure there were bound to be people who sought after my head. Only after further evaluation did my eyes catch the form of two others; a woman, surely of high regard for the man, masked in a porcelain mask I recognized to be that of ANBU nature, resembled that of a guard to her. Just gazing at them brought about a series of nostalgia, only months ago that had been me - it was strange, ironic even, to see such a thing from the other side.

It was most likely because of such a thing that I found myself making my presence known; my feet, with utmost swiftness and grace, bringing me onto their path. I was unmasked and garbed in clothes of a vagabond, contrary to how I usually was - but I gazed at the man wearily, something about him resembling someone I used to know.

"It looks like I'm not the only foreigner to these lands."

[Sayomi]

There was a shift in the wind, and a abrupt change within her guards demeanor. His movement had become hurried, his temperament, and entire aura change; shown by his sudden hustle to take the lead, his arm blocking her path. Taking notice immediately, Masumi slowed her own steps seeing that Kouketsu would not allow her to pass, there was no need for her to inquire the already understood.

The message though silent had explained all she needed to properly infer and become privy to the visitor. The raven haired man revealed his presence, he was calm, though his gaze was not on her, but Kouketsu. The Mizukage showed no sign of worry, her composure was calm and her visage docile.

It shouldn't take long for him to notice who she was, her Kage hat proudly broadcasting her rank and affiliation within her village-the prestigious title she held.

"It would seem so."

Speaking, with her arms held in front of her, hidden in the mouth of her sleeves, lovely, cunning, and devious eyes would meet with the vagabonds own, seemingly wrapping around his entire figure. The Mizukage was known for her perhaps overwhelming disposition, her un-readable poker face was one of her many talent, while some would call it crude others would name it tact.

"Would you do me the pleasure of telling me why you stopped?"

Her voice was clear, layered with a more womanly voice than she was known for. The Mizukage always tended to lead people astray about her true, dark nature. It was more a game than anything, but fun nonetheless.

[King]

Masumi's questions would be answered in due time, but not in the typical manner. As the dark-haired boy made himself known, Kouketsu dropped his arm from the Mizukage's path, clearly content with who it was that had presented themselves. It'd been quite some time since he'd seen the young boy, but the fact they'd met again was a good sign: either his mission had been completed, or he hadn't gotten to it yet. Both had their pros and cons, more so than him being dead.

"You're late." Granted, the Kirigakure natives had only arrived merely a handful of seconds ago. It didn't change the fact that Kouketsu expected him to be present, and visible, prior to.

The white-robed ANBU took several steps further from the Mizukage, glancing at her over his shoulder once he was within an arm's reach of the younger man. "I apologize for the inconvenience, Mizukage. I have some unfinished business with this gentleman."

In the time it took his right arm to raise past his waist, a small pouch was acquired in the crest of his palm. Within, a rather large sum of ryo for the boy's trouble. In return, he would receive the exact location of Konohagakure - for personal use, of course. And with that business concluded, another doorway was opened. "And as for our other engagements? How is that coming?"

[ - 10,000 ryo to Naga ]

[marvolous.]

"You're late."
"Cut me some slack, this place is endless."

It wasn't his stature nor his appearance that seemed so familiar to me, it was merely how he held himself. Despite only giving him a heedless glance, it was clearly evident who the man was behind the mask - no one aside from Kouketsu, my distant relative in some right, was so bold and rightful to be so. No less, his words brought my eyes to his companion, her Mizukage garb and overall royal presence not failing to be noticed. Still, however, I remained completely blank; this reunion, for what it seemed, would be short lived.

"ANBU now? Very fitting." In the same breath my hands delved into my pockets, only returning to their previous positions after retrieving my world map. With careful precision they would catch the pouch of money from Kouketsu and open the contents of the parchment at the same time, holding it open for what only seemed to be a fraction of a moment before closing it and returning it to the depths of my pocket. With his eyes - our eyes - that fraction of a moment would be more than enough for him to get what he needed.

"The end result still has yet to be achieved." I had what I needed to begin and even complete my objective, however there were other circumstances, unforeseen circumstances, that had slowed down my progression. "The one in charge is one of us, Kouketsu." My words were vague and flat, yes - but he would know what I meant. I wasn't aware how much the lady Mizukage knew of our affairs, so my voice was reduced to that of a whisper.

"Don't worry, it'll be done soon."

[ - Konohagakure & Sunagakure locations. ]

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[Sayomi]

Remaining silent after Kouketsu spoke, she decided it best to leave his personal business to himself, unless he decided to shed light on what had happened, she herself would not pry; however she couldn't help but notice the exchange. Information or to be more precise locations of two places she could not entirely make out, but she was sure one would be Hi no Kuni. It had seemed he would be more useful than she'd originally planned, a good investment she thought to herself as the two had concluded their business.

Simply and observer watching with keen eyes, she awaited for Kouketsu to began moving again. It would seem that their mission would be carried out much faster with this new information handed to them. It was a relief that they wouldn't spend hours or even days searching for perhaps one of the best hidden villages in the world. She was a lucky woman to have such a resourceful man. The Mizukgae definitely planned on keeping him under her wing. Beneath the shadows of her kage hat, one if they stared hard enough would see her faint smile.

She wasn't an easily pleased woman, but her visage told it all...

[King]

"A minor setback," Kouketsu admitted. Even the most slow-witted of their kind was a genius amongst the best of regular shinobi. Indeed, they all were granted a gift too powerful to ignore. Yet, that's precisely why Kouketsu hired Etsuko for the job. He recommended him quite adamantly before his passing. "But, I don't doubt your capabilities. We'll rendezvous again once it's finished."

Despite the fact their ties had been shaken in the passing of his beloved friend, it shouldn't have been a surprise that Kouketsu spoke with such a commanding presence. Once the leader of the most ruthless Yakuza in all the world, it was just second nature to him. Experience aside, in terms ranking among the Uchiha themselves, there were very few that could contest the might of his eyes. They spoke volumes words could never hope to imagine, and moved mountains with incomprehensible force. By all rights, he was a God amongst men.

With nothing further to say, and expecting a hasty depart from his guest, Kouketsu turned back to face the Mizukage while marking on his own map the two locations his eyes had caught from the glimpse. It was an identical copy now to the map he'd just seen, marking the Leaf and Sand for his ladyship. He'd fill her in, sparing only the details that weren't of her concern.

"I've acquired the location of Konoha for you, Mizukage." The map was sprawled open to reveal the location he'd marked, though she'd probably notice the other off in the distance, far more north on the map. "I've also acquired location of the Village Hidden in the Sand." Indeed, he may not have been the Mizukage anymore, but he was still a powerful man - he'd retained all of his informants and companions from his brief time in power, all of which easily owed him a favor or two.

Assuming she didn't have any further questions, he would once again take his position just to the south of her. "To the north."