old world blues. ( private flashback )

[Estilo]

Years before the Great Disaster. . .

. . . during the heydey of the Old World.

Conflict with Kirigakure shinobi had authored physical and mental exhaustion upon my entire squad. Though we had ultimately emerged victorious, with no fatal casualties on our side, the fight behind us had been as drawn-out and arduous as a potato harvest in Kuma no Kuni. Needless to say, we were done with bloody combat and military operations for the time being. And instead of returning home to the tension and bickering of government officials, we found that going to the capital and taking a load off was far more preferable.

Kami no Shima, Kaminari's infamous sin city. A cesspool of sex, gambling and money, but to many a remedy to mankind's misfortunes. A jeweled city in the heart of a surrounding mountain range, jewels that were really diadems of electric, and ten story high neon signs that resembled glowing spires. One would be hard-pressed to find a hive of villainy as flashy and promising as this one. To those in the know, Kami no Shima looked like heaven in the night time. To losers, Kami no Shima was the meanest place on Earth. But to us- a playground.

Four chaps and a broad from Tactical Unit Seventeen, fresh off the exhilaration of raw combat. Atlas, Hei, Lucky, Mal, and Chaima. We all knew what we were getting into, we'd all done it countless times before. The people of Kami no Shima- the cons, the scammers, the shopkeeps, the casino owners- they fed off the welfare of visting Kumogakure shinobi, jaded with their roles in the war. They thrived on it. And like many before us, our battle-scarred and besmirched uniforms stuck us out like a sore thumb. But, like the neon signs and gambling hives, it came with the city. It was all part of that "let's get shit-faced and win our money back" experience. A thrill and joyride in its own right.

We walked down Burabiya Boulevard, a flamboyant strip of eye-catching casinos, luxurious hotels and sultry brothels. Flashings signs everywhere, crowds of people inhabiting the open streets, more than half of them intoxicated or high on some other substance. Big Red's Den, Coyote's Howl, Niro's Palace. Laughter everywhere, joyful and mocking. An explosion of rapturous sounds and beautiful sights, sprawled over an artificially lit city landscape. As the five of us maneuvered through the congregation, weaving around those in our way- headed straight for our usual spot- I wondered what would transpire tonight. In these night time crowds, lively and explosive as they were, one could almost literally run into anyone.

[Apple]

ENTER

With the dazzling lights and so many girls with blonde hair walking about, it wasn’t hard to mould them all together and forget their identities- One of the reasons why a certain blonde was now trying to make her way through the drunken and tired crowds of Kami no Shima, with a particular goal in mind. The headband which was carefully tied on her waist, accentuating her already blossomed hourglass figure, clearing bore the sign of Kusagakure, a village which had been lost perhaps less than a month ago, and yet she wore it as if nothing had happened. Perhaps it was one of the reasons why people kept their gaze on her, or it might have been because for someone twenty years old, she looking surprisingly youthful- her skin taut and her hair golden and luxurious, there were few women here that rivalled her beauty even at her age. However- If one was to look in her eyes, you’d see only one thing; And that was weariness.

As the five of us maneuvered through the congregation, weaving around those in our way- headed straight for our usual spot-

She’d been here for a month, at least. The way that she looked at people proved it- Carefully being able to distinguish between the easy targets and the ones that might need a bit more worked, she scanned everyone, her blue eyes probing the most unlikely of suspects as she went on the hunt- But for what? At the moment, sat down on the corner of a large stone decoration, she’d keep her arms crossed as she’d look about- Before seeing an interesting sight- Five shinobi (Obviously shinobi, after all- it was often that she’d seen people wearing tarnished battle gear to Kami no shima, by now it had become a place where people could let go of the stressful shinobi life, and she figured that it was the same case for these five guys). But- Due to the amount of people there, it was hard to keep track of them all- But the one that she could keep her eye on for the most time? The red haired one- Literally- red hair. It was an interesting colour, and it stood out. A small smirk creeping on her face, she’d move in to action, pushing her slender form off the stone ornament, as she’d then take steps towards the direction he was moving in.

Clack, clack, clack the sound of her heels hitting against the floor as her hips swayed from side to side, she walked past the people with the fearsome height of 6’1”, but she walked with the confidence as any other. Beautiful as she was traps like these happened often in Kami no Shima due to the nature of the place- And yet she decided to chance it- She’d been gone without food for the entirety of the day and it being hours passed the sky turned dark- only the artificial lights of the place could guide her through to the next sap who fell for her tricks, and in the end; Her next meal. Approaching the red haired shinobi, she would, raise her hand ever so gently and then with her forefinger and thumb, pinch a small portion of his clothing. Had it not been for the fact that she was quite strong she’d have surely lost grip, but even if he did keep walking, then he’d notice that she was taking ahold of him. With his clothing still in his grasp, she’d stop- Hoping that he would do the same.

She’d let him take his time, waiting for him to turn and face her before she’d speak to him. If his friends decided to come in on it- That would be fine- There was plenty of money to go around to her, surely. And what wasn’t to love about her? She was almost striking against the already bright lights of Kami no shima- A true jewel in this corrupt wasteland- And even then, she had been corrupted. Everyone had been effected by the way and it was no exception to her and the men around her. But it didn’t bring her guilt to set people up like this- If it promised her money and food, she didn’t care.

She’d stopped caring a while ago.

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[Estilo]

I stopped when I felt a light tug on my sleeve. A sigh. What would it be this time? A beggar expecting a handout? An annoying promoter? A salesman with false promises? With a half a mind to keep on walking, and noticing that Chaima had been the only one who'd stopped to see what was holding me back, I decided I'd turn around and give whoever this was a piece of my mind. After all, Kami no Shima was a hard town. If you had a weakness, showed a shred of humility, the city and its people would punish you. This premeditated aggression, however, turned to jelly at the sight of the curvaceous blonde beauty before me.

Then it hit me. Yeah, sure, she was pretty. But often the price of beauty, and its upkeep, came with certain tasks- served certain purposes. It all seemed so clear then. "No, thanks, lady." I smiled, holding up a single hand, suppressing a chuckle. "I'm taken. Got a girl back home."

"But I don't!" Chaima added, her round, blue-eyed features emerging from the crowd behind as she slapped a hand onto my shoulder, a grin as wide as a canyon. The short-haired brunette tended to go both ways when it came to relationships of the 'intimate' nature, such as the one the blonde was presumably selling. And I knew that. But it didn't mean I'd gotten used to the fact that she was open about it. The newest member in our group, only a week old, but capable of keeping up with the rest of us. It was a bit awkward, this spontaneity of hers, enough to force that withdrawn chuckle out into the open. "What do you say you and I grab some drinks, hot stuff? Atlas here's inviting!"

"Now, hold on a second," I interrupted, giving Chaima that look. The one that quite obviously said, 'You're walking on thin ice, princess'. "When did I ever agree to that?" I added, narrowing my eyes.

"Oh, don't be a stooge, At!" And as she patted my shoulder, the luminous white then green glow of an oversized neon martini twinkling on us from a tower above, I noticed the gleam of something metal around the blonde's waist. Wait... was that? A headband. Either a ninja from Kusagakure, a thief, or a damn good illegal headband manufacturer. Things had now gotten a bit more interesting.

"Hey, hold up... is that a headband around your waist? A Kusagakure headband?" The moment of realization came to being. Okay, so maybe- just maybe- she wasn't who I thought she was. Bad mistake. But what kept me preoccupied now was wondering why a Kusagakure native would want to pull over a ninja of Kumogakure like me. And why was she here, of all places? "You're a long way from home, miss." I said, a single eyebrow arched in curiosity as Chaima did the same. Not aggressive at all, just absorbed into the reasons behind this encounter.

[Apple]

"No, thanks, lady. I'm taken. Got a girl back home."

Perhaps for just a moment my mind went elsewhere- Maybe it was the fact that from the things he was saying I either looked like a downright slut, and that my heart had taken a slight tinge from the reason he had given- Of course, I wasn’t a prostitute but seeing as there were dozens of other girls on the streets at the moment, it was hard to tell who’s who. Having still not gotten over what had happened but weeks ago I’d keep myself composed the best I could. I could never be a harlot- Never. I had too much self respect for that. But where my appearance had first of all gained the attraction of the red-haired male in the group, it was the female who seemed to be drawn to me most- Which wasn’t all that bad, I guessed, as I’d had much worse experience trying to haunt older men to give me money nad the like- This would be easy, I was sure. Of course, by the way they dressed I could only think of them as shinobi, so I’d need to keep my guard up beneath the friendly disposition that I’d seem to show.

"What do you say you and I grab some drinks, hot stuff? Atlas here's inviting!"

”I’d only been wondering whether or not you’d seen my purse” a pause, giving enough moments for them to take what I’d said in- But not too much to make it seem shady. ”..But if you’re insisting then I can’t turn your offer down, now can I?”

There was no-one- No one on this earth that could deny my charming grace when it came to words. Sure enough I was being cheeky but at the same time, perhaps it was only flirting. However- With the my plan now sowed, I could but hope that one of them picked up on what I had to say. First of all saying that I’d lost my purse, which was believable seeing as there were so many pickpockets around this area. Secondly, I’d cheekily insist that they buy me something to eat alongside these drinks that the brunette had suggested, insinuating that I hadn’t eaten for a while- Which truly, I hadn’t. It didn’t have to be something big like a full dinner- But that was always a good thing. With the red haired male’s name now unveiled as Atlas, I’d be sure to remember this later on, even though right now the brunette was the one who was slowly creeping in to my web. Taking perhaps half a step towards the girl, an impish grin perked on my mouth. Looking from Atlas to the her, it would soon come to my attention that he’d noticed the headband on my waist- Which was pretty understandable.

I chose to weave tales from my mouth. I’d always been talented at lying, but never in my life had I expected that I’d live one day telling them for a living. Of course, I was only hoping to live here temporarily- It, frankly, wasn’t all that the illuminated lights made it out to be. But then again, I coudn't have expected this all to happen, ever. ”..We’re all a long way from home..” I'd say, biding my time- Of course, by the bands that they sported I knew that they were from Kumogakure- the hidden village that this land was known for. And even if they were so close to their home village- Distance didn’t have to be measured in meters, and I understood that more than anyone. Distanced away from my family, away from my friends- And all because of my own ignorance. Awkwardness would veil the situation that the three of us found ourselves in for a moment or two before I soon parted my lips to speak to the both of them again. ”..So what about those drinks? I'm assuming Atlas here can pay for the both of us, am I right?” I’d ask with the cheeky grin returned to my face as my doll eyes turned towads Atlas for a moment, before turning back to the brunette. I didn’t care if she was a girl, frankly- If I could get food, drink or money out of her then I didn’t care who I flirted with. A small part of me felt guilty for even doing this but if I wanted sustenance, I’d have to work for it. Raising my left hand up I'd kiss the tip of my index finger and then hold it towards Atlas for a fleeting moment before drawing my hand back, the grin still fixed.

And with this question now posed I, too would pose with my hands on either hip, my head flicking to the right as I waited for a response. Of course- Even if they didn’t decide to go in to the matter of me losing my purse, I’d surely be bought a drink or two, which wasn’t all that bad- But I couldn’t get comfortable in the presence of these people- I could never know what they’d be thinking at the moment, and being a Kusagakure shinobi I was highly conspicuous of those around me due to the recent events in my village- and the recent events which I’d been victim to personally. But right now- I needed to concentrate on these and make sure that they were lured correctly. I needed money- I couldn’t afford for failure at this point. Desperation was written all over my mind but it could only be covered up so much with my appearance. And I was tired of this.

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[Estilo]

Home. I supposed she had a point, we were all- in a proverbial sense- a long way from home. And while I knew I'd see Veralette and our son early the next morning, it didn't massage the fact that I missed them so much already. As if we'd been apart for years, half way across the world from each other. Near death experiences, such as the combat I had survived in Mizu no Kuni, made you realize just how important the company you kept was. How much family mattered. I had only recently become a father, but I was already learning everything so fast. They were my world now. To protect them was my nindo.

The awkward silence disappeared before I even realized it was there, having been lost in my thoughts for the time being. When the blonde brought up those promised drinks, I gave a slight frown, casting a glance towards Chaima. I didn't speak; I wouldn't have a chance to.

"Of course he caaan!" She laughed, gripping my shoulder. "At's one of my best mates. Never one to turn down a good time. Amirite?"

The last inquiry, directed towards me. And I, being the nice person that I was, found myself agreeing. "Yeah," I replied, nearly speaking through gritted teeth, as she rocked my shoulder back and forth. "Never one to turn down a great time. Right. I guess I'll pay for the first round, then." To be honest, it wasn't so much the money that kept me on the fence about this entire situation. It was the fact that the blonde was a ninja from Kusagakure. Last I checked, we were on neutral terms with grass ninja, neither friendly nor on bad terms. But that didn't mean, as in each time I dropped by Kusagakure to pay visit to my little sister, that they didn't fear Kumogakure soldiers. This fear, in turn, often had a tendency of transforming into bitterness, jealousy, anger and spite. What more to expect from a world drowned in warfare?

I took the blonde's affectionate display of teasing with a small elusive smile. Looked like I still had it, a young Kumogakuran soldier in his prime. Two glinting viridian green eyes framed proportionately by striking facial features. A strong jaw, well-groomed hair, a smile that had conquered many times before. But I was, of course, a happily married man. Until death did us part. And I took that oath very seriously. As such, I took the blonde's gesture knowing that it was just that- a gesture- and nothing more would come of it.

"What are we waiting for then? Let's move our asses!" Without a hesitation, Chaima released my shoulder from her iron-strong grip and locked her arms with the blonde, brushing up closely against her with a smile as we started to walk back into the crowd amassed on the boulevard. "So... what's your name, honey?" Typical Chaima. Despite the fact that the blonde could be considered a bombshell, despite the fact that the blonde was a ninja of Kusagakure, she'd gone head first into trying to seduce the stranger into having a good time with her. But I supposed it was that attitude that fit her in perfectly with our squad.

[Apple]

Disheartened slightly at the fact that they didn’t choose to refer to the so-called missing purse, I’d leave that for another day- I had so many options to choose if I did manage to get pally with the both of them. Manipulative would be an understatement but once I got close then surely I could get them to give me some money, right? Yeah. The brunette’s seemingly peppy disposition went in to play once more after I asked whether or not they, more specifically, Atlas would be paying for the drinks that she’d offered, confirming that he would indeed be the one picking up the tab. ”That’d be lovely, then.” I’d say with the cheeky grin still plastered on my face. Fantastic!- Or not so much, but free things were always a good thing- Or in most situations anyway. Of course, I had all of the reasons in the world not to smile, but the profession which I’d taken up required a lot of it- And so I adapted to survive to this strange, luminous place. A hell to some and a haven to others, it all depended on your personality, really. I wasn't too keen on the bright lights, having come from a pretty nature orientated village- Frankly though, I didn't care.

Flicking my head to the right a little bit again, It would cause my hair to bounce backwards a little and draw it out of my face, as almost simultaneously, my arm would lock with the girl and perhaps for a moment- Just for a moment, I’d be caught by surprise in thinking I’d been trapped, only to see that she’d linked arms. Of course, this could have easily put me up for a fall later on if the two of them decided to mug me or something, so I decided to be wary of the situation. The two at least looked like decent people, but I couldn’t be too quick to judge. I’d learned first handedly how to trick unsuspecting people from one of the finest people in Kami no shima itself- And I’d been told several times that due to my appearance I could easily get away with things with a bat of an eyelid. I’d never really.. thought of myself as being that pretty but more and more I’d come to notice that I did have the qualities that many other women craved for- Which was nice, I guess.

"So... what's your name, honey?"
”It’s Blanche, yours?”

With the brunette now on my arm, I towering over her by a few inches surely, especially with my heels, I’d look down at her for a few moments before then turning my gaze to straight in front. Of course- I knew these streets like the back of my hand by now, but it was best to play the unassuming tourist and pretend not to know where many places were. Although the brunette seemed at least a little bit engrossed in me, I’d turn my head back towards Atlas, perhaps making eye contact for just a second before drawing away once more to look in front of me and make sure that I wasn’t bumping in to anyone on the way to wherever we were off to- Or they, at least, since at the moment it seemed that the strong-willed brunette was currently leading the group, the rest either having gone out and explored elsewhere, or like Atlas, decided to not confront her on her optimism that she so showed.

However- piping up again, I’d begin to speak. ”So- You’re Kumogakure shinobi, right? Tell me about yourselves.” I’d say, not expecting much- Only the basics. It was only a way to be friendly, and so that I could possibly use this information later on in time if it was needed- Which I was sure it would, hence why I asked in the first place. It was always nice to get to know the people who you were hanging around with, and with the three of us sober, it was nice to find out now, although chances are it would be easier to get information from them later on if they managed to loosen up from alcohol. I needed to find out things- any thing about them that could leave me some leeway to taunt them in to doing my bidding. And the way that I spoke these? With the beautiful and affluent tongue of a siren, of course. Clack, clack, clack heels hitting against the floor again as I’d walk, my toned legs on show, I’d draw a few looks from the people around us as we walked together- Whether or Atlas liked it or not, I’d do the same as this brunette had done, but, would tactically move myself and her so that I now linked arms with this Atlas as well, forcing him to enter this new so called friendship that we'd formed.

This should be fun.

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[Estilo]

Her name was Blanche. What an interesting name, I thought as I moved on through the crowd with Blanche and Chaima leading the way. Hei, Lucky and Mal were surely ahead, waiting for us at the entrance, if not already engrossed in a game of poker or blackjack. I could never depend on their patience out here in Kami no Shima, after all. Times spent here previously had attested to that fact. Here, they were incessant gamblers and fun-lovers. It was like asking a congregation of chimps to refrain from eating bananas for a moment. A seemingly hopeless endeavor. But sometimes I would find myself surprised. Keeping a good pace, I continued to follow the two women ahead of me.

"It's Chaima, my love." My bi-sexual companion replied to our 'guest', in a rather sultry manner of speaking. I only barely managed to hear their brief conversation over the roar of the crowd surrounding us, the ambiance of the city itself. And it was that shred of auditory capability that allowed me to hear Blanche's following question. I'd noticed her taking a peek at me before, curious it seemed. And this question only confirmed it. But to me, there wasn't anything to be alarmed about- yet. I was whole-heartedly expecting some sort of argument or grudge to surface sooner or later. But for now, Blanche seemed like a perfectly cool chick. Nothing out of the ordinary for a girl in her twenties.

"Not much to tell is there, At?" Chaima started, looking over her shoulder at me. "I was born and raised here. Just got my Chuunin title about a year ago, and now I'm in At's squad- with the rest of those Jounin numbskulls." She added, with a jokingly sullen look upon her face. "On the bright side, I'm pretty much set-up for a promotion within the year. At here, though... I've known the guy since I was promoted- and I could literally fit everything I know about him on a post-it note. Least he's not a stick in the mud, though!"

I sheepishly smiled, hands in my pockets, never missing a beat as I walked. "Well, uh... thanks, Chaima. You're not a 'stick in the mud' either." It was true, I'd known her since the day she attained her Chuunin rank, but not as close as I did now- with her as a part of my squad. I'd acted as a mentor to her, we'd become convenient friends, but our personal lives tended to be kept away from each other. She hadn't known I'd had a family until she joined my squad, for instance. And I hadn't known she was bi-sexual. But in terms of combat skills and tactics, we were practically each other's biographers.

Blanche locked an arm with me, unexpectedly. I cast her a slightly amused glance, a mixture of confusion in my eyes, paired beside that trademark smile. Acknowledging the fact that we were going to reach our destination soon enough, I shrugged off the notion of unlocking myself from this link. It made things a bit difficult, maneuvering through the thick crowd, but I didn't want to appear rude to our newfound guest. I just hoped Chaima wouldn't get possessive over her 'date'. I took a deep breath, a pleasant breath of cool air filling my lungs. "What about you?" I asked Blanche, turning my gaze back to the crowded street ahead of us- Dorothy, Scarecrow and I, the Lion.

"Anything interesting?"

[Apple]

So, Chaima.. Chaima and Atlas.

I had the names. It wasn’t often that I felt it, but this time- Something made me perhaps a little bit guilty for planning to con them out of their money and time- But a girl had to do what a girl had to do and at the moment I was dying for something to eat. I was aware that nightclubs and casinos with bars usually meant that they sold the usual drinking snacks; Assorted salted nuts and crisps- So I could surely squeeze a few more ryo out of them so I could make this chance meeting not of drinks, but a full out meal. Or in my case it was a meal, to others it would probably be labelled as just.. a snack. My hopes were fully on that, and as I linked arms now with both Atlas and Chaima, the notion that I was going to get something out of them by the end of the night was quite strong in my mind at least. It was inevitable, surely?

Clack, clack, clack I was unsure exactly of where they planned to go but what I was sure of was that they knew exactly where. If they turned around and decided to attack me in some alleyway I could easily fight back, right?- I had my fists and enough techniques at my disposal which I could easily at least knock them out for a few hours for. Despite the fact that kami no shima was a place full of people, you couldn’t trust everyone- And I was a prime example of that myself. At the moment I was being quite civil to them, but I’d get what I wanted later on whether they liked it or not. Force was never a thing that I used- But running on an empty stomach wasn’t too great either. Despite the voices of drunken women screeching and tumbling all over the place, the sounds of the music from within nightclubs blasting out, I’d managed to pick up on most of what Chaima had said to me regarding herself, and from what I’d hear- Primarily her voice, Atlas not even mouthing a word- It was quite standard, really. Unlike herself, I wasn’t a Chuunin, and we hailed from different villages. But the main difference? Hers still existed. I’d already made a judgement on Atlas, however- Solitary and quiet- A true shinobi, right? He might be a bit hard to crack. it was true after all- He didn’t seem as talkative.

”Sadly, I'm still a genin and I have no plans to get promoted, haha.”

Perhaps that was true. Back in Kusagakure I’d had too many things on my mind to even think of becoming Chuunin or even continuing my life as a shinobi. Now all that was gone I’d been forced back to this lifestyle after being pushed over the verge by nothing than myself and my mistakes. Unlike Atlas and Chaima, as I expected, I wasn’t exactly a soldier- Or I was, but a different kind, officially I’d been assigned to the medical unit of our frail army. With the village now gone and the fact that I’d been parted from my assigned division, I hadn’t been able to find anyone else from my village- As far as I knew, they’d all been killed in a violent massacre. ”I work as a medical shinobi- I guess I’m alright..” I’d tell them.

"..I’m going to be the best, though.."

[/b]
To say that I was a medic wasn’t all that surprising. There were a few around but I was just like them- fodder for the war. I wanted to be more than that "..One day I will."- I wanted to make a difference. Break the mould. There would be no one as good as me- I’d do anything.
I'd make them proud- Momochi, Ue, and even him.[/right]

So- Our linked form, despite being awkward as far as how we were walking was concerned, would soon make our way whatever building they were hoping to venture inside. I couldn’t say that I’d been in there before, but I’d passed by it several times and from the direction we were moving, I was pretty sure that we were directed towards a building with the name FLYING DICE on it flashing in quite a vivid blue shade. Taking in the words that Chaima had said about Atlas, that she knew little about him, I’d narrow my eyes down slightly in an almost playful manner. I’d get to him sooner or later. ”So, Atlas, Chaima- What brings you here? Perhaps you’re like myself and looking for some fresh air? It's a.. different place, i'll give it that.” lie, lie, lie. If I could have helped it, I’d have returned back home. The last place I wanted to be was here- But we couldn’t help it. I’d heard that it was the best place to make money due to the crowds- and that was it. I hadn’t been told of the bad conditions and the shady alleyways. Walking down these streets with the both of them with my long blonde hair bouncing up and down with each step I took despit the little breeze that flowed through the place. With blue eyes looking from side to side again, I'd wait to see which of the several casino businesses about we'd enter. I didn't care which one we did go to, to be honest- as long as we went to one of them.
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[Estilo]

So she was a Genin- a medical ninja, at that. Rather impressive, to say the least. Although, to be fair, any and all array of medical techniques managed to amaze me- considering the fact that I knew very little about them and have always, unfortunately, been at the receiving end of such practices. And, although she was practically a stranger to me, this new tidbit of information managed to spawn within me a newfound respect for Blanche. Medical ninja. Life-savers. Even Mal, being the annoying prick he often proved to be, had managed to gain my trust and regard through his various medical exploits in our squad. His specialty.

I’m going to be the best, though... one day I will. Hopeful, a goal set in mind. I liked that, it was relatable. Little to my surprise, Chaima agreed. "That's the spirit, love." She grinned, tugging her prized Kusagakure arm candy along. I sniggered, turning my gaze to the destination ahead- towards the Flying Dice. Almost there, almost to the exuberant and naughty paradise we had all learned to respect and love. But the guys? Nowhere in sight. I'd been expecting that. Probably off somewhere hazing each other, which meant- if I made a beeline to the bar with Chaima and Blanche- I wouldn't have to pay for three extra drinks.

As we walked, nearly at the entrance of our destination, our guest would voice a question. What brought us here? Well, pretty much what brought everyone else here. The lights, the fun, the excitement. But, of course, my female friend had a much more articulate manner of explaining it, so I kept quiet as she did her thing, trying not to run into people as I kept an arm locked with Blanche. "The beer and the bitches!" She laughed, hurrying towards the entrance, forcing this linked chain to straighten into an oddly slanted line.

The crowd at the entrance was dense, drunks and party-goers sharing drink and conversation. The building itself, a nine-story masterpiece flooded with sparking and chic neon lights. The most prominent? Well, the one at the front that read "THE FLYING DICE", of course. Pushing ourselves through the crowd, we were forced to disband our linked arms, until finally we regrouped at the front lounge of a bustling and brightly-lit casino floor. "Young at Heart" played over the ambiance, laughter and the clinking of drinks an ever-present sound in the background. And, suddenly, we were approached by the three "numbskulls" we had lost earlier- the three remaining squad members.

"Ay-o! Look who arrived!"

"We've been waiting forever."

"Who's the gal?"

"Just a girl who lost her purse in this god-forsaken city. Name's Blanche- she's from Kusagakure." Chaima smirked, locking an arm with Blanche once more as if protecting a prized possession. "None of you lay a finger on her! Friendly or otherwise." To which the boys replied with snickers and murmured responses- She lost her purse here? Psssh. Probably being sold in the next city over by now, ha ha!

Finding it appropriate to do so, I introduced Blanche to the boys. I raised a single finger, half-heartedly pointing them out one by one. "Blanche, this is Mal," The muscular one with the shaved head. "Hei," Shaggy brown hair, a sleepy look in his eyes. "And Lucky." A constant smirk on his face, the pretty boy with blonde hair, blue eyes and expensive eye wear. "They're the rest of our squad." I informed. When we were done here, off to the bar afar for a well-needed drink.

[Apple]

Perhaps the most striking thing wasn’t’ how easily I managed to pull this girl but how silent her counterpart was. However, I’d keep my mind on this fact, as for all I knew, for what he wasn’t saying, he was making it up with analyzing the situation- Which I didn’t exactly want him to do because if things went right, I’d end up a few hundred ryo richer. It wasn’t all that much, really, but if it meant that I could have a decent meal for once, it was truly worth its weight in gold. Turning to look slightly more at Altas I’d notice that he was a few years older than me, at least one or two- But then again I’d always known that sometimes it was harder to tell with males. Myself; I was barely twenty but I looked particularly good for my age, or, I’d been told this at least. I’d sometimes figured that I should look older from the things that I’d been through but youth had always been on my side even as a child- And really, I’d learned to use it to my advantage- If I wanted to get anywhere in this world then surely they’d become of use someday, right? For instance, in the situation like I was in right now.

With the short haired brunette on my arm and Atlas in the other we’d soon part as we approached the door of the casino that we were headed towards, the figures of three similar-garbed shinobi coming in to view as they approached us- So we’ve caught up with them.. I’d think as my dazzling smile continued to be plastered on my face. Of course up until now I’d been more than happy simply in the company of Atlas and Chaima simply because it was less names to remember, and it meant that I’d be able to deceive them easier without having so many friends of thiers about the place to prevent it from happening. A mental sigh escaping my mind I’d keep my appearance peppy, as I prepared myself for the five of them to converse amongst themselves- It was obvious to me that I’d be a topic of discussion, but I found no problems with that of course- After all, I was a complete stranger. It was perhaps their friendly disposition that would bring them to problems later on if my plan went fully ahead.

"Who's the gal?"

As expected.

The moment that he questioned this, I’d raise my right hand, removing myself from the three-man chain which I’d created, as I’d then flick the hair on the right side of my face a bit out of the way, causing it to bounce across my shoulders in a manner so attractive that even the showgirls of this city would be jealous. As my left arm was claimed once more by the brunette, I’d grin at how she seemed to introduce me to the rest of the team- I hadn’t exactly been in a situation like.. this before, but after all; I was doing nothing more than playing a character now. Finding myself being introduced by Chaima herself, there was no need for me really to say anything as it seemed as if my two new ”friends” had seemed to do it all for me- The once silent Atlas seemed to come forwards then, reciting each of the names that they had. I was aware that everyone had certain charactaristics, so I hoped that the way that they dressed and composed themselves and how they looked aided me in remembering. My mind, flickering back and forth with the various names I’d learned would be working over-time. I was only expected to mix a few of them up, right?

”It’s lovely to meet all of you-
But; Which one of you is going to be the first to get me something to drink?
I’m parched.”

I’d say this in the most playful of tones- Almost challenging them to do so- Of course I wouldn’t be offended if I didn’t get any drinks by the time the night ended but the way that I spoke it- Surely no one could fault me. Back in Kusagakure I’d had guys lining up at my front door, but Momochi was more than I could have ever asked for. ”……” Placing my mind back on the game a cheeky grin would find itself to my face after I’d finish speaking, my head shaking a single time, allowing my long blonde hair to tumble down to the middle of my back again. As we remained stationary in the foyer, I’d leave a few moments with silence before then grinning a little and looking about, seeing the nearest bar esque area, and then, with a confident; ”Let’s go!” I’d stride off in my own time towards the bar itself, dodging the few people who walked about with either drinks or cups of money that they’d collected in the machines. Inadvertently dragging Chaima along with me for this, I was sure that she wouldn’t mind. I’d caught her hook, line and sinker, and as long as she didn’t think too much of this little relationship she believed we were forming, then no-one would surely get hurt. Soon approaching the bar, I’d hop on a stool whether the girl on my arm liked it or not, and I’d press my elbows against the table, looking back at where the rest of them had been, and expecting that at least one or two of them would join us. There was nothing like a round of pre-drinks, wasn’t there?

"I'll have whatever you're drinking! Bring it on, Chaima!"
And so, whether or not the boys had decided to join us, the night and acting had begun.
But- Unlike his slightly louder friends, there was something about that Atlas that I couldn't exactly place my finger on. He was much more.. reserved.

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[Estilo]

The Flying Dice. It was as active and rambunctious as it had ever been before, unnaturally packed this particular night, a short attention span plaguing everyone who wasn't used to the sights and sounds. To me? White noise. Like the rest of my squad, I could keep myself focused, composed and legit throughout my stay here. Even when it came to drinking, I wouldn't be lost to the numbing confusion of a blackout. Such were the precautionary measures you had to take in a city like this. And if you were going to pass out, you just had to make sure your shoes were tied on tight. That, or a designated partner at the ready.

One would be hard-pressed to believe that the bumbling assortment of fools standing in front of us were capable of any discipline in a scenario such as this, but it was true. Even when Blanche announced her proposal- whether any one of them would attend to her particularly parched predicament- they kept themselves from flinging themselves at her feet, despite the fact that she was a very beautiful, and rather enticing, treat. Quickly, I intervened- my face the epitome of merriment. "I think these guys," I began, taking a step towards my male companions, landing a single firm hand on Mal's left shoulder. "Have already had their fair share of drink. You guys hitting the slots?"

Clearly amused by my response, Lucky would be the first to reply. In a silky smooth voice, "Like always. We'll catch up with you two later. But I suppose you'll be entertaining the lovely Miss Blanche tonight, eh? Have fun." He added, tossing our guest a blithe wink.

And before I knew it, Blanche was off on her way, dragging Chaima along- who was obviously more than happy to be pulled beside a looker such as the blonde. I gave the three guys a brief wave goodbye- silently praying that they wouldn't get into a "mishap" on the same caliber as last time- before trailing off in pursuit of the two women I had inadvertently promised drinks to. By the time I reached them, they were already positioned closely to each other on a pair of stools. Chaima yelling out, with great and jovial enthusiasm, "Two whiskey's and a scotch on the rocks! STAT!" And so, the night had begun.

I took my place beside Blanche, who was subsequently sandwiched in between Chaima and I, but not enough to cause discomfort or spark a case of claustrophobia. Just enough to rub our shoulders against one another as we fidgeted on our seats and reached for the drinks the bartender set out. I swiped the small glass of scotch Chaima had order for me, thanked the bartender and took a swift sip, a single hand slapped down on the counter while the other poured that smooth and powerful liquid down into my mouth. A good day's work finished with a nice drink of liquor. Slouched over the counter- thinking silently to myself- I released a hiss-like 'ahh' as the alcohol did its thing.

[Apple]

Slight disappointment ran amok as Atlas seemed to take control of the situation- Maybe he’s the one who stays sober and looks after his smashed friends? I’d continue to ponder this. Maturity was another trait of his that I’d easily picked up on as he spoke, and so with his wise, perhaps oldmentality as he showed it right now, it would make it harder for me to try and get some money out of him, right? Unless he easily had guilt trip- But if anything that made me feel bad if I had to resort to even more desperate measures. With the village gone I couldn’t exactly parade in to another village demanding work- That would be betraying the very village that I had lived in for the entirety of my life up to now, bar the last month or two. Sitting near the bar alongside Chaima the group would part once more, leaving me with the two of them again. Perfect I was getting tired of this charade- Usually I’d have swiped whatever money and dignity they had to offer by now.

I had little to no clue about exactly what Chaima had ordered as I wasn’t exactly a drinker, but in order to fit in, it was required- But getting them drunk was the goal so then they’d be more susceptible to be thieved from. With their minds elsewhere I could easily make them do anything I wanted and from that- Gain what I wanted. I suspected that perhaps the brunette would be the easiest whilst Atlas would require more work in order for him to loosen up and stop being so much of an introvert so that I could get to know him better, but at the same time, I couldn’t blame him. Although I’d revealed to them things about myself, I’d only told them the basics. There was no more history than that to leave my mouth by the end of this session- They didn’t need to know so telling them would be simply putting myself at a disadvantage. On one hand connections were a lovely thing but when people knew everything about you it only placed you at risk. And so, as the drinks hit the table, I’d raise my hand with one, before then downing it as the strong liquid rolled down my throat like fire. It wasn’t.. all that nice to be honest.

But what I lacked in the enthusiasm to drink (When not in situations like these) I made up with my tolerance. Having inherited keen drinking skills from my grandmother, I’d both become used to it through drinking in general, and I was pretty great at it to start off with. Who knew that the one thing that made me stand out from others in a bad way at parties would be useful to me now? Burning continuing to invade my throat I’d shake my head and place the glass back on the table, my pale hands fumbling around with it for a few moments before flicking it gently towards the barman as it slid across the polished countertop before turning my gaze back at my two ”companions” to either side of me. ”I loooove shots- Have you tried the Smoke bomb here? It’s a pretty interesting drink. I was here last night- I think!” I’d say, my ditzy blonde character blossoming ever so slightly as I looked around at the bright lights that had, for the past few days now been giving me headaches. ”This place is really interesting- All the people here! You can find shinobi from all over the world. Isn't that amazing?..” Despite my words, I’d been the only Kusgakure shinobi that I’d seen- Which really, was better that way.

”..Chaima, Atlas; you two have got to be the first Kumogakure shinobi I’ve met. I saw some from Konohagakure yesterday but they weren’t that talkative- I guess this war really has stirred people up, huh?” Dumb blonde would be an understatement, but it was believable. I hadn’t said much things before now that showed that I had a fully functioning brain, but I figured that I seemed friendly enough with my warm disposition and an even friendlier appearance, so I was easily approachable. Large, bubbling blue eyes gazing at the various drinks that were on offer behind the bar, I’d let them buy what they wanted- and assumed that I’d be getting one in return. Something was telling me that tonight wouldn’t go as I planned- Or at least, I was anticipating failure on the front that concerned me getting money from these guys. Rising my arms I’d then go onwards to wrap my left arm around Chaima’s left shoulder, and my right arm around Atlas’s right, a wide grin appearing on my very animated face.

It was going to be a long tonight.

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[Estilo]

The alcohol. No, one glass wouldn't quite inebriate me as much as I hoped it would. Which would have been a problem easily solved, if not for the company we were keeping at the current moment. She seemed like a fly chick- but the fact of the matter was that I didn't know Blanche. Once this complimentary drink Chaima had obligated me to reward was over and done with, I was quite certain I'd return to my comfort zone- no longer striving to cast a good impression on our lovely guest. A game of blackjack seemed to fancy my curiosity tonight. A game of blackjack and a three-course dinner. Discreetly looking over my shoulder, I took a quick gander at the Gourmage restaurant at the other side of the large casino floor.

Thoughts of Veralette graced my mind once more. Thoughts of her and our child. What were they doing now? When was the last time I had checked up on them? I turned to the blonde sitting beside me, to the bartender at the end of the counter. When I was sure they weren't watching, I discreetly issued the ram seal with my right hand- while the left cradled the half-empty glass of scotch in the air. Lowering my head every so slightly, I temporarily closed my eyes as Blanche continued on about something called a 'smoke bomb'. Focusing, for a moment:

The raven I'd left in Kumogakure. It was still perched on the balcony across from our spacious apartment flat. I urged it to fly towards the edge of an open window, the one Vera often left open during this time at night, to let the sweet-smelling smoke of a recently cooked dinner air-out. Our kitchen, clean and organized. A pot of something tasty on the stove. My vision, shaky and dark around the edges from the crow's beady black eyes. The echo of Vera- her impeccable tone of voice, urging our son to go to sleep as she rocked him in her arms in--

Blanche, her voice took me out of the trance. I guess this war really has stirred people up, huh? It was only when she wrapped an arm around Chaima and I, that I released the hand seal concealed to my side. My family was doing fine, as I'd anticipated. But it was always nice to keep in touch somehow... to just... know that they were there waiting for me still. It kept me anchored to the reality of this war-stricken and bloodthirsty shinobi world, kept me hopeful and sane. I nearly chuckled when I turned to see the fat grin on both Chaima and Blanche's face, allowed my body to rock with Blanche's swaying as her arm tugged me back and forth. "You're surprisingly happy for a girl caught in the throes of war like the rest of us, aren't ya?" I remarked. "I trust you've avoided the worst of it, then? Or learned to repress it." With a speck of a smile, I downed the last of my scotch.

Just like we were doing here- repressing it. Ironic, huh?

[Apple]

As moments passed with the both of them hooked on my arms, my eyes would be keenly studying the bar that we were currently sat at. Three busy people behind the countertop that parted us and them, they hurried about, serving the drunken crowds of Kami no Shima. In the back to the left there lay a till, which was easy to be recognized seeing as when they tended drinks the kept going back and forth to exchange money for change. Perhaps for a fleeting moment my mind contemplated armed robbery but that would be a bad idea- I’d only been out of my village for a small amount of time and I didn’t want to make a name for myself so soon. But I had everything on me that I’d require- Weaponry, and a range of techniques that could probably take out a person or two- Would it be all that bad if I did do that? It wasn’t as if the place hadn’t been the victim of a robbery before, right? It’s simple, it’s not as if they’re not going to make that money back tomorrow. Don’t be such a fucking wuss- for now, I’d contemplate in silence, planning out my moves, and what I could do to rid these two from me should I go through with my plan. They knew too much- But then again, it wasn’t as if I had anything to lose now.

The shinobi world as we knew it was already in so much panic- This one event; one little action wouldn’t hurt the world too much. And I could potentially come away from it a rich woman. Tapping my fingers against the countertop, my eyes, which had past been staring at the register from the corner of my vision, would flicker from the members of staff behind the bar back towards the register itself- I was growing impatient, I could feel it. Decisions had to be made now and there was no going back once it was made. The place was heavily guarded by security surely enough as the war hadn’t drawn away the amount of revenue that this place made- If anything it had surely simply grew over the past year due to the amount of people seeking relaxation from their own problems- but there was nothing like a rush of adrenaline to get your blood pumping. My mind temporarily dislocated from reality, my hand would slowly be drawn back towards my body as I prep-

"You're surprisingly happy for a girl caught in the throes of war like the rest of us, aren't ya?"
”....!”

Perhaps I’d been caught in my own world for a while, but I soon was dragged back to reality by his call as I soon came to realize that maybe, just maybe whatever I’d been thinking previously wasn’t all that great of an idea. Flickering my eyes towards a large, stocky security guard at the door, I’d agree with this new standpoint of mine- It was too risky. But- Pushing my attention back towards Atlas, I’d turn my head towards him and listen to him speak, a forged grin lacing my mouth. ”I managed to avoid the most of it, myself- I knew people who were worse off than me, though. But- At least I can travel the world, now! Isn't that an interesting concept?” perhaps it was an optimistic way of this character to look on the new of my village having been completely destroyed- Or simply how I wanted to look on it about. I’d always wanted to travel, even as a young girl, and now upon the ruin of my home I was allowed to do so. It was just ironic how some things worked out- But right now I'd have rather be back there rather than here. Travelling wasn't exactly one of my favourite things now.

But given my optimistic take on it as I’d spoken, I’d surely have set my words in stone for him- But it was all lies, of course. But he didn’t have to know that. ”I’m assuming Kumogakure has fared better than other places- You said that you have a girl? That’s lovely! It must be nice to have someone back home for you, right?” I’d tell him in a cheerful manner, my voice like honey- But it only led me to wonder; Had Momochi said similar things about me when he was serving outside the village? I couldn’t be sure and I guessed that now I’d never know, but it was always a nice thought. But to learn that Kumogakure had been alright or at least was still standing was good, but at the same time- infuriating- Was it fair that their village had the right to survive after mine, and so many of my loved ones had been torn away from me after war? Was it fair that I’d had to go through it all alone and that just to top it off; I was rendered homeless? It wasn’t- And that’s what pissed me off the most. But right now, I needed to keep my cool if I was to learn more from him and get what I wanted from the both of them- I'd have to bide my time with them- But I grew restless.

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[Estilo]

She seemed awfully bubbly, and I smiled at the fact that only minutes ago we had mistaken her for a high-class escort. She'd recovered from it well, to say the least. And I was surprised to see her so awfully... calm around us. So outgoing. If we weren't from different villages- if Kumogakure didn't have such strict international laws- I would have imagined Blanche as an ally. Someone I would have liked to have on my own team, perhaps. But due to the fact that she was from Kusagakure, a village I hadn't personally heard from in nearly half a year, that sort of scenario was but a fleeting thought- not a possibility.

In response to her inquiry, after whether it was nice to have someone waiting at home for me or not, I could not help but quirk an eyebrow. It almost sounded like she didn't know that feeling herself... at least, not anymore. How strange... sad. Was she an orphan of some sort? Or perhaps not. Perhaps that issue ran deeper than just the loss of parental figures. Putting these thoughts aside for the time being, I decided to answer her question. "A wife and a son." I said, trying to contain the proud grin that was attempting to break out. I settled with a thin smile. "They're the only reason I'm fighting this war. Or else... well, we'd probably wouldn't have a home to return to, right?"

Years ago, I had settled it. To keep Kumogakure safe, was to keep them safe. Veralette had, after all, been the only reason I'd upgraded from a traveler to a shinobi of the Cloud village. Without her, I'd still be roaming the world- and there was no telling where I might've gone, or where I might've been right now at this very moment. Another continent, perhaps. But I'd gladly put that time of adventure and travel behind me for her sake. And out of that commitment, our child was born. It was great to see, however, people- shinobi, no less- like Blanche free themselves to the spirit of travel as I once had.

"Bar keep! More drinks here! Keep 'em coming!"

I suddenly found myself considerably more interested in Blanche than I had been before- for all the points that had been going through my mind earlier. I guess I didn't mind having her around a little longer, as meetings such as this- with foreign ninja nonetheless- were far and in between. Maybe I could get her to talk about her village a bit more, their political stand on the war. Maybe I could benefit with some knowledge from this spontaneous meeting of ours. Before the bartender returned with our second round of drinks, and before Chaima finished the last of hers to continue ogling Blanche, I calmly voiced a question. "I'm in the mood for a game of poker. You up for a round or two, Kusa?" I smiled, a nickname. I didn't form those often. But tonight seemed like the night to start. I was a beast at poker.