EVENT: Energy And Espionage

[vegapunk]

EMERGENCY CALL FROM THE RAIKAGE: ENERGY & ESPIONAGE
♔ GM'd by Naitome

It was a mission of the utmost importance. Standing staunchly at the gates entrance with Benkei at his side he would be looking at the three shinobi that he had chosen for the mission. The ninja that stood in front of him were not the highest ranked or the most experienced, but they were all gathered for their own reasons, that only the Raikage had recognized and knew. All blessed with youth, it was a task that he would entrust to the next generation - this coupled with the fact that many of his other experienced squads were currently unavailable. They had never worked together, but each had shown exceptional talent in their own regard, this being a test for which the Raikage hoped they would all pass.

He would smile as he turned to Benkei who was clutching a handful of papers between her arms, preventing the wind from snatching them from her grasp. Heavy cloud blanketed the sky above, and irregular gusts of powerful wind would swirl and circle the surrounding air. Gratefully so, there was not a speak of rain to be felt, a good omen for the beginning of a mission - although Eiichiro didn't believe in such things. An irregular occurrence, he was not wearing his signature sunglasses as his forest-green eyes would be naked for all to see. The air was tense, Eiichiro could feel it, but it was the kind of intensity which was required.

He had high hopes for the group which were lined-up before him. Inexperienced for a mission of this caliber, there was ball of worry and doubt which had nestled its way into the back of his mind. Was he crazy to send such a young and inexperienced team on a mission like this? Coursing his palm anxiously through his golden locks he would reassure himself. He trusted his own judgement, and the skill of the group in front of him. It was time. In competition with the animated wind, he would elevate his voice over that of the winds own tune. Each had already been fully debriefed on the mission at hand, and given all resourced that were required for the task. Calm and staid, he would address the group for the final time before they would return.

"I hope you have packed all the necessary equipment for this mission. To reiterate the importance of this mission, I don't want to see you back until this group has been eliminated. As you know, Kassui will be leading this mission - as he is the only jounin-leveled shinobi in this squad."

// pause //

"Get to know your teammates, as working together will be paramount in this success of this task. May the Iron Will of Kumogakure surge through your veins. Now go, show these fuckers who they are messing with! Good luck!"

Benkei would mutter 'Good Luck' to the group of Kumo ninja as they signaled their agreement before vanishing. It had finally begun.

SPOILER: Click to show

The three participants are to post first, after my post, to begin this thread. Then, your GM Naitome will post, and your posting order can be chosen from then on. And Jun, this is taking place after our thread in which we have meet and you were approved for Kumo (just to make this easier). I will be following this closely, so good luck - and most of all have fun. ^^

[/justify][/font]

[BLKND]

It was typical, a scene such as this. With the wind slamming against the few able bodies which stood just outside of the village gate, their clothing would reveal just how able these bodies were. Standing as if some sort of stone statue, Kassui's crossed arms would recognize only a few of the bodies which stood before him. Standing to the side of both the blonde-haired Kage, and his now signified associates, it would be shown instantly that this was going to be a mission of an incredible importance. Having completed a number of missions in the past, this would be the first for the ANBU to actually have non-ANBU subordinates.

Eyeing the group over, the vibrant red eyes of the man would catch a glimpse of what it was that he was working with. He had been preparing for this mission since the moment he was informed about it. Taking a brief survey of the library, he had done his research on the records of both of them, and for their sake, he hoped that they had done the same for him. A registered Jounin, it would be an ample amount of responsibility to lead a team such as this on a mission that would rely so heavily on espionage- something that less experienced ninja would find a bit more difficult. Either way, it was something that couldn't be helped.

With a subtle step facing the rest of the team, Kassui would nod at each of them as he would meet their eyes. His hair would blow wildly behind him, not that it would make a significant amount of difference once a few strands would find themselves in his face. The ebony face of the man would crack as he did something that many who knew him were unaccustomed to; he would begin to speak.

"STAY... ALERT..." He would spit out forcefully, as if he had never spoken a day in his life before this moment.

However, he was satisfied with with his message, his hands, tucked into his kimono sleeves falling to his sides as he would turn away from the other two. With the mission begin mostly based on espionage, it only made sense that the team dress as though unaffiliated with Kumogakure. Armed to the teeth, the only visible tool on Kassui's person being the considerably thick scroll which would rest casually on his lower back directly above the satchel which clung to his belt. Taking a short moment to acknowledge both the Raikage and Benkei, Kassui would appear unphased by Eiichiro's pep talk. Of course, it had been clear that the talk was more for the others than the ANBU. Regardless, giving the couple a small wave, he would glance back once more at his team before beckoning them to follow.

// THREAD -- ENERGY & ESPIONAGE
//OOC -- sorry about the wait, internet was spotty last night. all armor and primary weaponry have been placed into the scroll. secondary weaponry and remaining accessories are on person.

[Jun]

Enter.

This was insane.

As anxious as I was, I'd try my hardest to not let it show on the surface. A prompt glimpse was given to each of the members of our party, namely the long haired, crimson eyed one that would be leading our high priority assignment. A Jounin, huh? An impressive feat - I figured he had to be a capable leader if Goldie had faith in him. Eiichiro, the man I'd met just ten days prior was already sending me off on a mission beside his most loyal shinobi. It hadn't yet dawned upon me that I was the lowest ranked of the group but it was clear as day that I had a long ways to go until I became a respected figure within Kumogakure.

On edge and drowning in anticipation I listened in on the Raikage's encouraging words. It was funny, of all people I'd had the chance to run into the Lightning Shadow that fateful day at the caravan. At any rate, I had read over the provided briefing scroll just the day before, as such I was well aware of what we were getting ourselves into. In a moment of revelation, I peeked down at the premier Kumo headband that was passed down to me - its metallic plate was fresh and without a scratch. My ties to Iwagakure were long gone, though it came as a bit awkward to call this new village my home. That was something I'd come to terms with soon enough, or so I hoped. With a bow of the head I donned the emblem, finishing the act by knotting the end around my dainty neck.

"Stay... alert..."

[/right]

The restless breeze too blew my short, charcoal hair any which way. The same went for my equally black, thin jacket, tight fitting leggings, and purple scarf; they were all carried by the wind. I took a second to grasp the hilt-less tanto tied vertically to my spine - a gift dispensed by the higher ups in Kumogakure. Surely we needed to be well equipped, which is why a few extra kunai and explosive notes were also added to my light inventory. Next I turned to face my superior, his maroon pools intermingling with my own ocean blue vision. Our eye contact came as a mixture of fire and water, two elements that in a way went hand in hand. I nodded in acknowledgment at what he had told us and uttered but a single phrase in response. "My name's Jun." That said I shifted my weight within the crisp, emerald grass and allowed the reality of the situation to resonate throughout me. We weren't in over our heads, that I was certain of. We were an elite group, gathered to bring honor to a homeland I'd just recently accepted. I gave a half-smile to Eiichiro while waiting for our third member to chime in. What was there to be worried about?

We were going to tear that mafia asunder.


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

[luneth]

Morning in Kumogakure, the youth would be positioned just outside of the village walls, standing alongside several other shinobi as they’d make their final preparations and voice their last words before leaving. With several clear objectives set for the task ahead, Haru would remain silent, contemplating their circumstances and simulating different scenarios within his mind, ears listening to the Sandaime Raikage’s short speech, and eyes subtly examining his two shinobi comrades.

Eiichiro, Benkei, and even Kassui would all be familiar faces among the Hyūga by now, though Jun, their female partner, would be all but recognizable, Haru only knowing her name through a bit of research and mission briefing. With what little information he was able to unearth on the subject of the Kunoichi, it’d been revealed that she was previously a nuke-nin, and accepted into the village as a Genin. The story would be similar to his own, in certain ways, as he too had been a missing nin upon finding the village, albeit from the Hidden Leaf as opposed to Stone.

The parallel in their own separate stories would intrigue the adolescent ninja, though it’d only be shown in the form of a momentary, inexpressive stare aimed in her immediate direction. With only minutes before the commencement of his first A-rank mission, he’d be forced to maintain a more solemn demeanor, not allowing for meaningless small talk or the speaking of anything off-topic.

Moving his ponderings down the line of shinobi, his deadpan gaze would fall upon their leading partner, and Jounin Anbu, Kassui. Having spent a day in training together, amid the yellow-haired shinobi who'd still be addressing the group, Haru would have taken a detour on his way home, researching the former stranger among the village’s ninja information files. Similar to the Kunoichi, the records on him would be slim, only going into detail on his performance in the Chūnin Exams and induction into the village's special assassination and tactical squad.

While loyal to his nation and Raikage, he held no such allegiance with the arbitrary Cloud shinobi, and thus would decide to make it a point to keep his guard up and remain on the lookout, unsure of whether or not he could actually trust the two.

Nevertheless, he wouldn’t doubt his Kage’s judgment, and on the chance that either of the ninja would try to turn on him, he was confident enough in his own skill and ability to defend himself. As his observations continued, Eiichiro’s words would come to a close, filling the air with nothing but the light gusting sound of a cold breeze.

“let’s go, then.”

With his own comment following Eiichiro’s speech, and several more seconds of pondering, a voice would eventually speak out in commandment, ordering the two shinobi to stay alert and signaling for them to follow as the group would set off in the direction opposite Kumogakure. The Chūnin would mutely revel in the experience as they’d begin their journey toward the small mining town of Sutori, slightly hoping to learn a bit more about his two partners during their travel across Kaminari.

[Naitome]

It had tracked him across the flat-lands and the curved pass leading towards the coast. It was not by smell or sight but some other sense, some insidious advancement of biology that defied simple explanation and nonetheless cowed his resolve, made running forever an exhausting and impractical solution. It rose into the sky in a serpentine curl of armored exo-skeleton screeching as the mountains shook frighteningly beneath its charge, and he hid in the dark of trees to catch his breath. It seemed that it could not find him so easily during the day, and he moved towards the horizon, finding solace in a warmth that still would not save him from its assault. It was ravenous and pursued him with renewed vigor each night, charged by years of starvation. It was evil and he knew this and it did not matter. He was supposed to be meeting people, allies...those whom he could pass on the vital information it had nearly cost him his life to acquire.

He would not be able to last much longer. They needed to get to him soon.


The gates close behind you, and for what is surely not the first time in your brief lives, the jagged chassis of rock that is Kaminari No Kuni rises up into clouds so close that the rain merely reaches down instead of falling. There are several paths leading away from the village entrance, deeper into a mottled rock tomb cradling the remains of countless others who've failed to do what you are prepared to. The sun is high, the way forward plagued with its own dangers, and once you've entered the Swallow's Nest, the time for talking will be over.

Use that time now. The men and women assembled before you are your comrades, and regardless of your individual paranoia, relying on them will be the only sure way to succeed.

For the moment, your options are simple; there are two nearby locations where information pertaining to entering the village of Sutori can easily be found. The first is a simple tavern, only a few hundred meters from your current location and designed so that those traveling to and from the village can have a quick place to eat and drink in relative peace. Some of its shadier patrons are well known for their skill with a certain criminal element, and though it would not be hard to press one of these men for information regarding how to safely enter your heavily guarded destination, it might take some time to deal with the consequences of unwarranted hostility.

The second, is the only other person any of you can see from where you currently stand; a tiny but fast moving older gentleman between the mesa and plains up ahead. While there is normally no reason to believe that a stranger would know the whereabouts or infiltration patterns of a village you three would plan on visiting, something about his appearance does catch your eye.

As he walks towards you, you can see a tiny bird tattoo on his exposed right shoulder, and a tiny nest on the left. The choice of what to do, of course, is yours.

---

Kumogakure Mission - A Ranked Energy & Espionage
Posting Order: Obs, Haru, Jun
Proceed.

[BLKND]

It was a short amount of travel before the three man party would be subjected to the utter silence that would normally accompany men during this trek. With the lavish mountain ranges that surrounded them, it would be easy to become lost in it all. Even for someone who was raised in mountains very similar, the sheer magnitude of it all was nothing short of miraculous. Taking cursory glances at the ninja that followed closely behind him, he would eventually be forced to break the ice- despite being the absolute least likely to do so.

"KASSUI." He would say forcefully to the female of the party.

Perhaps she would recall, but she had introduced herself, only to have her newfound comrades completely ignore the gesture. It must have been difficult, especially for a Genin who left everything to join them. Her powerful blue eyes were something that reminded him of his own... even if they were polar opposites. They held the same ferocity, something that no one had really taken time to appreciate. The memories of his childhood, and his first steps behind the walls of Kumogakure- he could understand just how she felt, and how difficult it was to be considered a pariah for little more than being born outside of the village. It was for that reason that he would take his time, breaking the reputation that others would consider 'normal' for him, to offer her a gesture that wasn't as brutal.

"NAME... KASSUI..." He had hoped to lock eyes with her once more; a chance to discover her history, but his head would eventually turn to face the direction in which his feet were taking him.

This interaction would peak his curiosity about his other comrade as well. Having done a bit of research on the matter after their initial meeting, Kassui had discovered a small fortune of knowledge concerning the shinobi. From his induction into the village at the hands of the Raikage, to his prowess during his own rendition of the Chuunin Exams, Haru was incredibly skilled for his rank- it only being a matter of time before he himself would ascend to Jounin. However, as a member of the main house, Hyuuga, and as a past missing-nin, he was far from welcomed from his fellow Chuunin and the Genin that he would command. This band that Eiichiro had formed... it was unique in that way. However, it was their difference, being raised out side of the norm that would deliver what mattered most into the laps of all three: power.

It wouldn't be long before the three would find themselves at a relative cross road. Tucking his arms back into the bellowing scarlet sleeves of his overcoat, Kassui would take notice to a pair of quick old legs, walking towards the lot of them. Dressed no differently than an average travelers, they wouldn't draw any unnecessary attention. Turning back to the two, much shorter ninja, he would engage them stealthily and nonchalantly in an attempt to avoid any suspicion.

"SENSOR...? ONE, TALK." He would ask them, his face giving them the rest of the expression, turning his head from each to the other, and back.

His plan was to question the man, and of course being unable to speak properly, he would be count out of the equation. Instead he would continue to pretend that the three of them were having a casual conversation, only he required an answer immediately. He could only help that his team mates were sharp enough to catch on.

// THREAD -- ENERGY & ESPIONAGE
//OOC -- Don't forget to give me your opinions~. all armor and primary weaponry have been placed into the scroll. secondary weaponry and remaining accessories are on person.

[luneth]

Following a rather straightforward pathway out of the area, the three would have departed from the vicinity of Kumogakure with no problem. Now silently traversing through the mountainous landscape, the jagged, rocky constructs that had once bewildered the youth would flank them on either side, some only half-visible as they’d reach up past the clouds and, seemingly, into the heavens above.

“we're lucky, you know... privileged enough to live amid something so.. scenic.”

The words would fall from his mouth with much effort; out of nature, yes, though with Jun being new, and Kassui being new to their language, it was almost as if a role needed to be filled, or else, have their trip be filled with silence. It wasn’t as if he was enormously or even exceedingly shy regardless; but rather, more simply put, had never grown used to this particular form of communication, having been alone and without acquaintance the majority of his fourteen years.

Nevertheless, it was genuinely a grand sight, and although it’d be nothing new, Kaminari’s picturesque scenery had the ability to catch one off guard from time to time, no matter how long you’d lived there to see it.

His eyes would move from the striking terrain and back towards his two partners only seconds after speaking, paying particularly close attention to Jun as their separate gaits would stride along next to eachother. Recalling her introduction earlier, he’d have been too engrossed in his own thoughts to respond or be able to make clear what exactly she had said, besides her name. He'd take the time to reply now that some of the discomfort and tension that came along with a rigid silence had been diminished, the Hyūga shinobi speaking in a calm, more quiet tone.

“i’m haru, by the way.. i’ve heard very little about you, to be honest… would you, perhaps… indulge us? maybe in how or why you arrived here?"

With a long, arduous journey ahead, it would be in plain view, common sense, even, that the trio should probably get to know eachother a little more. It would be a combat-filled mission, and going into such a situation with strangers couldn’t have been a good idea. Should she respond, he would listen attentively; though otherwise continue to stare out into the vast landscape ahead of them.

Having lived in Kumogakure for years now, he’d grown accustomed to the cold mountain winds and their chilling, almost constant gusts, his clothes befitting this acclimatization as he’d be donned in his customary, warming garbs – a black, hooded trench coat, white, collared long-sleeve shirt underneath, down to skinny, black pants and a pair of tight, foot contouring ankle boots matching in hue.

Hidden underneath his clothing would be an exoskeleton-like armor; he’d as well carry a slew of secondary weapons and two accessories with him, hidden in various places among his person. Lastly, a horned, white mask [] would be loosely strapped to his neck, turned around so that it'd be rested on the hood sitting on his upper back.

It would be a while, though eventually they would reach a crossroad in paths – running into an older man should they continue forward, and into a tavern should they head down the new trail. His Byakugan had been activated in the midst of the group reaching a more misty region, and would still be now, scanning the area and its nearby inhabitants. Observing the older man from afar, he’d become aware of any hidden weaponry stored on his body, as well as his two tattoos. There’d be something odd about him; whether it be his looks, or the fact that he was an elderly man, walking alone in the middle of Kaminari, a region known for its tough terrain.

It wouldn’t sit well with Haru, his senses telling him something may have been up, he’d shake his head in disapproval upon Kassui turning around to utter a struggled question. Haru would respond in a hushed voice, urgency evident as his divine stare would examine the taverns inhabitants.

“let’s move in the other direction.. something’s just not right about that man.. someone his age doesn't just travel alone in such a harsh environment unless they're crazy or have an extraordinary talent, either way it's a bad idea. i only see trouble coming from it.. my eyes have spotted a tavern only a few hundred meters from here, i’m positive we’d have better luck finding answers there."

He'd pause for a moment, pointing in the direction of a separate path, "hurry.. and jun, remove the hitai-ate from your neck, wouldn't be smart to keep it in plain view.. there are people who despise our village, it's best to remain anonymous."

---

SPOILER: Click to show

[activated]Byakugan.

[Jun]

"Kassui...I'm much obliged."

Black sandals would tread along an alpine pathway as I gazed up toward our Jounin captain and blinked. I wouldn't lie, the way our eyes crossed paths again was a bit strange - something about the way he spoke came off as different. And yet, he was interesting in his own way; only time would tell what talents were hidden beneath the surface. My guess was some prestigious clan, but I'd have to play the waiting game until then. In the meantime I settled for more subtle things, like the inspiring mountain view and fresh, although chilling air.

“we're lucky, you know... privileged enough to live amid something so.. scenic.”

[/right]

The other male introduced himself as Haru. In all honesty, I couldn't help but stare - his pupils were non-existent, for ghost white was the only color his eyes gave off. I'd figured he'd garnered the same look from others his entire career as a shinobi but regardless, his point of view was intriguing, to say the least. They, his pale orbs, would stare out hauntingly into the distance as he addressed me next, awaiting an explanation for my being in Kumogakure. Alas, it was to be expected. I couldn't blame him, my motives and such were shrouded in mystery - still, I hoped they hadn't passed negative judgement on me so soon. "Sure, but I'd like to hear a bit about your eyes in exchange," I cooed, noticing his occasional glances over in my direction. "I hope you won't hold it against me but I was formally a nuke-nin, once hailing from Iwagakure. The Lady Tsuchikage banished me from their ranks during an interrogation following the recent Chuunin Exams." That about summed it up for the most part. I kept a brisk stride alongside him while our leader set the pace a few feet up ahead. "And now I'm here, searching for my brother." I left it at that; a gloved hand swept through raven strands of neck length hair. As I awaited his reply I'd cast another look back out yonder. Birds of unknown species fluttered among a drifting mass of clouds. This was tranquility - I was content with standing alongside such skilled men. Their home was beautiful, their Kage sincere. If I ever had the chance to meet that glamorous blonde again I would have to thank her for her kindness - her forgiveness.

Then we arrived at a split in the road. In the distance I distinguished an elder man traveling in solitude. An odd sight - his tattoos and such I remained ignorant of however. The gap was too far, though soon Kassui began to mutter something I had a difficult time piecing together. Sensor? Yes, I was quite savvy with weeding out chakra imprints but what exactly had he meant? "What is he, tone deaf?" I whispered humbly to the stoic ninja at my right. In enough time Haru took action, his eyes bulging at the sides with veins I fathomed were rushing with chakra. Kekkei Genkai. His was perhaps one of the rarest I'd ever seen.

"hurry.. and jun, remove the hitai-ate from your neck,"

The youth donned in all black soon gave his insight on the matter, all of which I absorbed with a tinge of skepticism. That old man, was he really that much of a threat? As new as he was to me as a comrade, I trusted Haru's judgement with the utmost respect. His vision was blessed, we'd be fools to ignore that. He mentioned a tavern not to far from our current position and that I should conceal the headband at my neck. "Right." I nodded, catching on to the urgency in his voice. It was purposely hidden beneath my midnight hued scarf but if that wasn't enough I'd give heed to his warning - I made haste and tucked it into the recesses of a beige pouch at my rear. If we were to take the other path it would need to be done quickly. My confident persona awaited orders from the Jounin up ahead - well, either orders or a translation of them from Haru. We appeared to make for an effective team, I had no quarrels with them and they'd already seemed to get along just fine. Still, an impatient foot tapped upon firm earth in the next fleeting seconds.

'Patience Jun, patience.'

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

[Naitome]

His tormentors are merciless; he can think of nothing but those he was supposed to meet and in displaced anger shouts within the confines of his own mind where ARE they? though he knows it is not their fault. He has allowed himself to be caught in this horrible game, and until they arrive, he has no choice to endure. His feet leave a trail of blood stained footprints in the dirt as he runs, as fast as his legs will carry him, and ducks beneath the stone ruins of recently demolished homes ducking girders and steel beams and death itself. The creature follows him still, does not even possess true eyes only a single massive horn that sways in the air towards whatever direction he chooses, as if it knows where he will go next. It is not hunting him like a mindless beast, no, it is playing with him. Reveling in the chase. There is intellect beneath the swollen monstrosity of the Swallow's Nest.

They must HURRY.


Though you spoke with each other, you did not come to a concrete decision on how to continue, and as such, certain events create the opportunity's for themselves. The old man approaching you comes easily to within 10 meters of your suspiciously assembled group, and raises his hand in greeting far before you reach the nearby tavern. His odd markings are in plain view as he stares you each up and down, before speaking with a voice that carries surprising energy for his age.

Heya! How's it goin'? Travelers eh?

He says politely, scratching his back absentmindedly and staring, perhaps a bit too closely, at the strange eyes of Haru. If the boy were to examine the man with his strange eyes, he would find nothing out of the ordinary, no chakra to be worried about, no hidden spirits, merely an old man engaging others in conversation. He does not appear to be one who knows even the first thing about ninjutsu techniques of any kind, though he does seem oddly strong, possessed of a physical energy that betrays his seniority.

---

Proceed.

[BLKND]

It was an interesting amount of conversation that would course between the two of them. Kassui was used to being the odd one out, so as Haru would mention the impeccable view which surrounded him, as soon as it caught his attention, the rest of the conversation would become devoid of all real interest. It wasn't that he didn't care, but instead his absolute lack of possibility in joining in. Keeping his head forward, he would stare directly into the bleak peaks of his new nation. The eyes of the boars, bears, snakes and birds would steadily haunt his vision. The eyes of the living, the eyes of the feral... they were something impressive to say the least, and something so easily accepting for his lifestyle. The wild, loose hair that would dance in the gales which circulated through these hillsides would quickly cloud his face. Its thick, untamed nature would only add to his persona, and perhaps the reputation he had gained around the village. While he was no where near as famous as some ninja, he was nonetheless one of a select number of Jounin in the village. Having taken on the task of being an ANBU, he was granted with a number of missions which the public did not have access to. In fact, it was for that reason that these two might have otherwise been more cautious of their commander. Despite his youth, or his stature or appearance, there was a massive amount of blood on this mans hands. Much like most of the men in his organization he had been bred to do the bidding of his commanders, the Raikage included. From assassinations, to small-time coups even reconnaissance and examination; it was the life of someone inducted into the ANBU, and it was a burden that he had to withhold until the day that he died.

Eager to hear the story of the newest Kumogakure-nin, he would act quickly under the pressure of a now engaging older gentleman. Having attempted to have his subordinates engage him, he would find a quick disapproval from the lips of his second-in-command. Despite the slight debacle, things would turn out in his favor. Having made it an odd distance from the lot of them, Kassui's stone face would remain just as stone as it had been. While there was no hostility in his expression, he would signify his moderated respect for the man with a slight bow, customary for an occasion such as this. It was only then that Kassui's blood red gaze would notice the man's intense interest in the eyes of his Chuunin. His arms crossing each other once more, just as they had been at the village gates, he would speak in a soft, yet audible tone before once more turning to his comrades in hopes that they wouldn't fail him a second time. The plan was incredibly linear. Ask a few questions, and gather some intel on the location that they were hoping to find. Spending time arguing would only slow them down, and with the profit of the village rapidly draining, they wouldn't have much more time to waste.

"WELL." He would say to the man serenely, in response to his question on their welfare. Turning to his team mates, Jun specifically, before making a slight glance at Haru, who he knew would be capable of noticing the loaded glance he would once more meet the man's gaze, his face matching his verbalization.

He had to be cautious. For a stranger to approach a lot of three so eagerly was not common in the mountains. Sure, the roads were difficult to traverse, and a helping hand would always be appreciated, but with no gear, party or uniform, it would only arouse questions as to what this man was actually up to. Regardless, he would have to accommodate his non-ANBU team mates. Normally using hand signals to converse with his squadron, he would have to resort to non-verbal cues of a different sort. If Jun could understand him, she would check to see if this man was lying or not. If Haru could understand him, he would begin to question him inconspicuously. Jun would have the answers, and giving them to the rest of the team would be as simple as a thumbs up or thumbs down, blinking once, or blinking twice. However, they had failed him once, he could only hope that they wouldn't do it again before having to reprimand them.

// THREAD -- ENERGY & ESPIONAGE
//OOC -- Don't forget to give me your opinions... seriously. all armor and primary weaponry have been placed into the scroll. secondary weaponry and remaining accessories are on person.

[luneth]

Advancing expeditiously through the familiar land, Jun’s tale and modest request would fall upon accepting ears, the Chūnin doing nothing to appear judgmental or disapproving, but instead responding with a countenance of welcoming blended with intrigue. He’d ponder his next words as they’d walk; hailing from Tsuchi no Kuni, her unknowing would be understandable, as the Hyūga were a people residing primarily within Hi, Haru himself being a rarity. Living in Kumogakure, the unfamiliarity of his clan would be evident each day, and thus, by now he’d grown accustomed to such requests. She’d be deemed worthy of such information with the nodding of his head, the young Hyūga afterward answering her as he had countless others.

"my eyes," he'd explain, turning towards her, "are the result of being born into the hyūga clan... a noble people hailing from the hidden leaf. with them, i can accomplish things far beyond that of a human eye... you will see, in time."

Their conversation on the subject of his otherworldly eyes would be ended in a rather suspenseful manner, Haru knowing the mission would eventually require their use. Following the casual speech, he would once again stare out into the distance, contemplating the iwa-nin turned nuke-nin turned kumo-nin that walked beside him.

~~

Presently, Haru would have just failed to rally his comrades in moving toward the tavern, having either underestimated the man’s speed, or miscalculated his distance, as his arrival would occur much sooner than expected, consequently giving the youth time to do nothing more than deactivate his Byakugan, the veins surrounding his temple beginning to calm themselves. With no time to wonder how it had happened, a weighted look from his Jōnin leader would force Haru to act, the Hyūga exuding an air of tranquility as, internally, he’d hastily deliberate on an answer.

Having noticed the looked he’d given to Jun as well, Haru would be sure to remain aware of the female ninja and her own gestures, now subtly observing the elderly man that had neared them so swiftly. Having already checked him previously for any unordinary chakra signatures or things of the matter, his attention would now be drawn toward a kind of corporeal energy the man seemed to be emanating. Odd, though regardless, with a desire to rectify his mistakes against Kassui, the calm Chūnin, experienced in such situations, would articulate himself in the perfect manner, appearing just as the old man had assumed of him – a traveler.

Only seconds had passed before he'd speak, his voice assuming an unassuming, pleasant tone, doing nothing to evoke any form of suspicion, skepticism, or mistrust.

“yes we are, actually," he'd answer confidently, eyes now drifting toward the man's two tattoos, "heh, i take it you're one yourself, then.. where are you from?”

Following his deceptive query, Haru would make sure to watch any small gesture made by Jun via peripheral vision; curious as to who exactly this man was.

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

[Naitome]

SPOILER: Click to show

Didn't wanna do it, but I'll have to skip Jun this turn. Tried to give her some time as a cushion, so if things work out for her, she should be back to posting by the next go round. I'll update you as soon as i'm informed.

His breath comes in ragged gasps, torn from him, like entrails, visceral and disgustingly heavy. He is consumed with sick-making fear that forces him to swell with pride in guttural reaction to being hunted like some common vermin creature. The beating of the beasts wings seems to drown out his senses; everything around him vibrates with the dull chill of his approaching demise. The information he holds is vital, he ducks around an outcropping of stone and digs his hands beneath the earth, depositing the information somewhere far safer than he will be if he does not move soon. It is covered with clumps of dirt almost as hastily as it is buried. He runs. Pushing his body to its maximum. Fleeing the grasping shadow that seems to cover the world.

This foul city will be his tomb. Exhaust pipes covered in gnats sucking greedily at stolen air funneled up through metal and rust; he is being made to wear himself out in his own grave. He prays for the quickness of the shinobi destined to meet him.

But his destiny seems already set.

Yeah, jus' a traveler myself. Been running about from city to another, a job for the young if you ask me. Being paid a fair bit though; it's nice to work again.

What do you lot do? Where exactly are ya trying to go?

The man responds to Haru politely enough, making a visible effort not to stare into the boys blank pupils. He regards the others in your group without suspicion, though his eyes travel over you all to note what he considers strange clothing for this part of the country. Before you are able to answer, an explosion assaults your senses.

Damn gangs! Always messin' something up!

As your attention will be drawn to the tavern in the distance, which has ignited into a blistering inferno. If you try to move past the man, he will hold out his hands as if to stop you, and offers a warning regardless of your actions.

Best not to get involved with them folk. Not our concern.

---

Proceed.

[BLKND]

Kassui might have thought it strange for this man to hastily avoid Haru's question, if not for the lack of attention Jun had shown the plan. If this was the caliber of Iwa-nin, then perhaps they deserved less respect than Kassui had previously given them. Moreover, if this was the attention shown to the mission now, what did the Raikage see in this girl? Needless to say, their plan and been foiled within an instant, and within the midsts of their own ranks no doubt. Shrugging the failure off however was the next best option. Instead, they would require an official contingency plan that could perhaps get them one step closer to their goal... instead of being postponed by this strange old man who seemed to be far too eager for conversation. As such, as he would begin to question the three-man party, Kassui would quickly grow tired of his presence. Focusing his eyes on the man as he spoke, he would search his body for any visible clues that could lead to his motives. Any interest in his physique, any possible weaponry or tools that would be valuable to a journeymen; Kassui couldn't find much. However, as the man would wrap up his interrogation, offering the Kumo-nin the opportunity to answer him, something even more eerie would occur.

Rumbling behind him, a shake of the terrain would focus Kassui's attention to what could be an oncoming assault. There had been no visible reason for the tavern, so far away, to be destroyed... unless it was done from the inside. Wincing at the sight of the flames, which had compounded and grown an exponential amount, he would take a step forward in an instant need to investigate, getting a better look. However, he would soon see the arm of the man shooting out in front of him, blocking his path easily. It was a clear attempt to protect the youth, from what he would reveal as gang activity. Turning to Haru, Kassui's eyes would focus intensely, nodding his head towards the building to beckon the subtle, if not hidden, use of his Byakugan. Kassui would continue to question the man.

"GANGS?" He would ask the old man ignorantly, as if he could never believe in such a thing for this part of the country.

Turning to face the man he would step outside of his reach, if only to look him in the eye, demanding his attention. He would not appear aggressive, but instead would display a portion of his actual feelings. He was in a rush, to discover the secrets of the Sparrow's Nest, the truth about this man's tattoos, and the mystery of this blistering inferno that had now consumed the very tavern they had intended to stop by. If the gangs that consumed their destination had reached this far out, then it would be an excellent lead. If he could only get an answer out of this cheery old man, then perhaps they could finally proceed on their mission, and leave this man back to whatever the hell had occupied him before running in to their lot.

// THREAD -- ENERGY & ESPIONAGE
//OOC -- Attempting to distract the old dude. all armor and primary weaponry have been placed into the scroll. secondary weaponry and remaining accessories are on person.

[luneth]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width, 425px][STYLE=margin: 10px 22px 10px 22px; text-align: justify;font-family: arial;font-size: 10px;][there's been school, placement exams, and a new part-time job lol, i couldn't think to post the past few days, my activity will be much higher soon, however. no more tests, and dual enrollment, so i won't be sitting in a normal hs all day.] Just as the older man voiced his first sentence, it would be clear that the foreign Kunoichi’s intentions would not be to help, but rather, remain motionless, stagnant in their time of need as she would stare blankly off into the distance. It was both odd and frustrating, seeing Jun do nothing but stand still, even amid this elderly stranger, who was nothing short of bothersome himself. Their Jōnin leader’s silent beckoning had been clear enough to Haru; though, perhaps Iwagakure operated differently, with a separate set of signals and mannerisms. In the course of his own travels, before he himself had joined Kumo, the youth had witnessed enough to know that no two separate cultures could ever be entirely identical; even villages within the same country, spanning only miles apart could have their own unique set of customs, religion, dialect, clothing, etc, and so on. Thus, the thought wouldn’t be farfetched, though regardless, she had foiled a vital part of their strategy, forcing the two to consider swiftly a new plan. For the moment, he would remain attentive, the kumo-nin’s trained expression calm as he would scrutinize the stanger’s tone, body language, truthfully any nuance that could possible shed light on who exactly this man was. The wanderer would end with a question of his own; reflecting on his answer, the Chūnin would notice he hadn’t answered the question presented to him, never bothering to enlighten the trio on where he originally hailed from. He would take note of this amid concluding the ponderance of his own response, the words on the tip of his tongue as a loud commotion would sound off in the distance. Jolting his head in that direction, he would see the tavern he had previously planned to enter, now consumed in flames. Kassui would move first; with the man directly blocking his path, he would send another of his weighted looks toward Haru. Comprehending his meaning immediately, he would turn his head completely opposite the man, his eyes and visage concealed just as he’d activate his Kekkai Genkai. the adept Hyūga’s previous perception evolving, his vision would instantaneously encompass their entire terrain, Zooming in on the flames that had sparked nearly 100 meters away, a fight had seemingly broke out, with groups of men brawling amid the burning building, while others, not belonging to any kind of gang would stand just outside of the flaming structure, watching. "fighting inside.." he would mutter, on the brink of inaudible, and likely unheard by the old man. Deactivating his Byakugan, he would turn his attention back towards the man and Kassui. Honestly, the traveler was beginning to wear away at his patience, annoying the adolescent ninja. He cared nothing for him, and would feel an urge to end his life as the seconds passed, conversely not displaying this, with the only emotion visible on his face being contentedness, as he’d produce a slight smile. [atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width, 425px][/style]

SPOILER: Click to show

[activated]byakugan; mid low.

[Naitome]

SPOILER: Click to show

Given her more than enough time. Skipping her for the foreseeable future, unless i hear some word that she's come back.

Yeah, Gangs. Petty bunch of young'ns, snatching trash from strangers and causing small fights. Nothing too big.

As he spoke, five shapes would emerge slowly from the surrounding vegetation, as if birthed from the very rocks and trees. They would walk up, surrounding your group, each bearing similar tattoo's, though they were dressed all in black, each carrying two small blades, and heavy hoods concealing there faces. If one would look with chakra sensing eyes, they'd see that the men's chakra was miserably underdeveloped; they most likely knew no ninja techniques whatsoever. But they were tall and muscular, giving off the same overbearing physical presence as the older gentleman easily conveyed.

Gangs are basically nothin', not to us. We got us a full-fledged mafia; with us, it's more a business.

The older man would look at Haru, and without warning, one of the men surrounding you would grab Jun, far faster than any would be able to react, and hold a blade to the center of her throat, with just enough pressure to very nearly break the skin. His eyes would shift, mouth twitching in irritation, and he'd speak brief, harsh words.

Boss says anyone traveling up this road has to pay a toll, see. And you all look like you might have the money. But this kid....you're a ninja, ain't ya? Never did much like ninja, so here's the deal.

You give us everything you got, and we might let the girl go, after we have a little fun with her, of course. Or...we could always kill ALL of you and loot your corpses, but that's a bit messy for my liking.

Your call.

The other four men, two to each of you, face you with hunger in their faces. There is no doubt that they will kill you if you do not comply.

---

Proceed.