valueoftheworld01: journey of a thousand miles

[vegapunk]

Looking up at the old man who looked down upon the group of shinobi - Eiichiro was truly surprise. Sitting, the famous and wealthy Lord of this manor was nothing more than a shell. As the oxygen-mask covered his face the condensing breath beneath the mask would form and then dissipate as he attempted to speak. However, even at his age Eiichiro could notice a certain sparkle, in his eye, he seemed to be well-aware of his surroundings. Speaking to his sub-servant commander, the process of coughing would plague his attempts as his face grew ever more pale. Interesting...obvious as of now who is really pulling the strings in this charade, Eiichiro thought to himself as he looked up with a blank expression.

Suddenly, Muramasa would begin to speak, his arrogant expression and tone escaping his mouth. It was obvious to see what he was, a leech of the worst kind. He would stick to his master until the moments where he could suck any and all wealth from the man. He wanted to be the owner of this mansion, to be in control of these soldiers, and these funds - and that kind of drive was dangerous and untrustworthy. Eiichiro would keep a close eye on the man as he issued them to return back to the atrium. Finally.. they were now being placed into groups irrespective of their knowledge of the others and abilities. Eiichiro wondered exactly how much information these people had on him, and on the others. How were they assembling these groups, or were they merely picked randomly?

As the last word was spoken both men would depart from above causing the samurai which caged the group of shinobi to rise once again. Eiichiro turning his body swiftly, causing his coat to turn in the momentum, would make his way towards the atrium. As walked to see the group he would be placed in he would proceed to enter his hand into his pouch, grabbing a packet of cigarette's. Placing one between his lips he would strike a match at his tip - causing a plume of grey smoke to rise up in the air surrounding him. As his eyes scanned the notice he would repeat what he had read Sen Tokumaru, and Ekitai Hozuki...hmhp. These would be the two other members of his expedition group, the two shinobi he would need to count on if things became troublesome. Although, he knew he didn't need them to ensure his survival, teamwork would be a great part of this experience he believed.

Ekitai Hozuki, this was the man that Eiichiro had a brief exchange with only moment before - and as his eyes scanned the room they would meet with the upon contact. He had read the group listing as well. And then there was Sen Tokumaru, a Iwa-nin who was completely unknown to Eiichiro. There group would be a complete mixture of cultures, villages, and beliefs - and Eiichiro couldn't help but wonder if this was the aim of men in charge of this event. Knowledge and information of his newly found comrades would be imperative and Eiichiro wasn't the type of man to be shy about such matters. Cupping the cigarette between his fingers, he would walk closer to his new partners till their positions would begin to form a group. Releasing a plume of smoke he would begin to speak - polite but mysterious, as the words left his mouth a small mischievous smile would spread across his face.

"Well, time for introductions then? I am Munashi Eiichiro, current Raikage of Kumogakure. Hmm...regarding battle statistics, I am a Lava Release user, however, my heritage resides with the Yamanaka Clan located in the Fire Country."

[/justify][/font]

[♠Solo♠]

Kei had hoped and expected to be teamed with Sen, as they usually were in missions. However he knew this mission would be different from the ones taken back at his home in his village made of stone. The old man seemed bitter. For what reason it would escape Kei. A multitude of issues could have been the case. However one thing was for certain. He was dying. It was horrifically obvious. He wondered if the man would even last till the end of this little en devour he required all this shinobi for. It would be an outright shame if he did fall over and pass onto another plane before he saw this through.

The shinobi all entered the atrium at once. Different from before, when they all arrived at different times, or so he had figured. He knew he was the last one there, and to assume any information that happened before hand would be a fool's task. He took no note of the other shinobi. They all looked fairly capable. It almost excited him to see them all. More so he realized he himself stood among this crowd of powerful warriors. It felt like an honor. However he wouldn't have time to day dream.

He followed behind his group without speaking. He examined the two fighters. One's abilities were obvious. She was of the famed Hyuuga clan. She would most likely be efficient in taijutsu, as he was. Though their exteriors told different stories, if a battle were to occur then the outcome would not be judged at the drop of a hat.

The other had a look of strength as well. Though his abilities would not be obvious to Kei, he could tell he was a powerful shinobi. His aura was down right encouraging. Though he kept a calm demeanor Kei could tell he was ready for combat. The way he walked, and his eyes picking up all the details they could. It almost put Kei on edge. A small shiver ran down his spine. He wasn't sure what the feeling was. Not quite fear, but something entirely different. Like something was attempting to break his soul and psyche. Suddenly, he heard his name, as well as the female of the group's name spoken.

Snap out of it. Fixing himself up, he stood before the Uchiha and the Hyuuga. The man obviously wanted to place himself at the head of the squad. More evidence of his power. To lead a squad of shinobi, when you have no idea of their abilities, was something a Chuunin, or even Jounin would be ideal for. He wished to discuss strategy. However the woman would cut right to the point of how she felt.

"Don't act like our leader, Ryu. The man we are to meet here is our leader. We're simply the brawn needed to get the job done. Ex-Hokage or not, you don't have that kind of power over me anymore."

Kei's eyes darted to her as she spoke. Then to the one called Ryu. His eyes were wide with surprise.

"Ho...Hokage?" His mind went numb for a slight moment. Was he really working alongside a former kage? It was maddening. Kei knew himself to be strong, but to be expected to work with a kage was something alarming for him. Before he could finish being baffled, he would then be addressed directly.

"So you know, boy--er, Kei. I'm a Hyuuga, obviously, and specialize in my clan's Taijutsu. However I'm very efficient in Ninjutsu as well. I'm a Medical Ninja and can easily be the backbone of this little group. And so you know..." She would lean in closer to the boy. "Try anything and with one flick of the wrist I can crush you with my Souin strength." The Hyuuga woman was snappy and obviously believed in her own strength. It was refreshing to hear. It snapped Kei out of his daze. A small grin popped up on his face after she spoke.

"Heh. How about we step outside for a second so you can prove that theory." She stood taller than him, as most did, but he still gazed into her lavender eyes. Eyes within a visible iris and blank. It was somewhat alluring.

The one called Ryu would speak in terms with Kohana. It was dreadfully apparent they held a history, as they should, if he truly was a former Hokage.

“An introduction, would suffice for now, Kei. I’m Uchiha Ryūsuke, Shinobi of the Hidden Leaf. I’m quite proficient with Katon Ninjutsu, and I have some training in the Medical field. I also wield the Sharingan.” Ryu spoke out to his group, being the second to tell his strengths and proficiency. Kei's eyes widened once more, now staring at the male.

"Another doujutsu user?" And this time with the famed Sharingan. What a pair to be teamed up with. A Hyuuga and Uchiha. Born with abilities that allowed them to surpass whomever their opponent was, predetermined at birth for greatness. A sinking feeling set into Kei's stomach. He was a nobody, and he figured the two would think the same thing. A name no one knows, from a shinobi no one knows. It was maddening even more so. However he knew to keep his composure. If anything, if not an Uchiha, or a famed shinobi, or kage, he was a representative of Iwagakure. He would show the Stone Village's strength here this day. Even if it meant defeated an Uchiha or Hyuuga in combat, he would for his village.

Finally deciding to share, as it seemed to be his turn now, Kei spoke up. As he did so, he would lift his heavily muscled arm, and flex it, showing every amount of definition of muscle that could be seen in a arm. He may not have powerful eyes, but he would best them both in terms of taijutsu. He felt it. "This is my strategy. All I need." A cocky grin popped up on his face as he spoke. "So don't expect any of that ninjutsu or genjutsu crap from me. This," he extended his fist at them both. Untamed youth bursting through him. "is how a real man fights."

"Oh," he chirped up one last time, now pointing to the headband on his head with his thumb. "I'm from the Village Hidden in the Stone." It was rather interesting that he came from a village whom holds shinobi with Doton abilities.

OOC: Sorry for the lateness. My internet at home is off. Using my phone wifi, hoping I'm not getting charged.

[☆ F ☆]

His old comrade's voice pierced the tight air established by the owner of this building, the one sickly man before which chose to spout out his "last words" - I heard much but thought little, as the withering piece of aged flesh was nothing more than a judgmental hag in my eyes. Though he may have thought less of "us", I thought even less of him. In truth, it wasn't even his money that interested me; I was on a different mission altogether.

“...”

[/right]
I said nothing in response to Masuyo's expression, choosing the modest route by not acknowledging his expressions rather than basking in the glory of words. There was much I had yet to accomplish within my frame as it was, but with nothing more than a glance his way, I would express my gratitude for his presence. A nod followed, just in case the message was not clear. However, it would not linger for long; it was time to go...

Let's get this going...

Just before I left, Masuyo's words lingered across my psyche a bit more than wild, to the point it began to affect my behavior; amazing! here I was, a gallant of murder, a knight of end, suddenly brought back to my younger moments at the sight of an old friend. Without a doubt, I needed to curb this behavior. For now, however, given our proximity, I'd play along. As I walked the halls, I found myself answering Masuyo's question in a most quaint and quiet tone.

"We should bet on it..."

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

[The Dude]

The Raikage himself?! It was strange to know he was the leader of another nation at his young age, but it was even stranger to think he would be working alongside another village's kage diligently on this little quest. A kage was like having an ace in the whole as farm as Ekitai was concerned and they hard certainly locked out on one that was full of potential. Not only did he have a the rare release to control and manipulate lava that one only heard about in stories, he was part of the Yamanaka clan another clan Ekitai only had rumors to go on. A kage of this magnitude would surely make the journey easier and much more reachable.

"Sirs, as you have already found out either because we spoke before or by process of elimination I am Ekitai Hozuki. As my name implies I am of the water born clan, I have taken my heritage and applied it directly to my own suiton elemental combat but I also possess the other side effects of being a Hozuki you may have heard of. This means I always have an edge in hand to hand combat even against some of the most experienced taijutsu users. I have very few weaknesses so I'm skeptical I will actually die on this quest and as such you can feel free to use me for any hazardous tasks... with in reason."

Ekitai turned and looked across to the last and final team mate their Iwa shinobi. Ekitai had spoken with the Raikage before and discerned if nothing else that he was a gentleman and polite enough to be agreeable. Now he awaited to make assumptions about his third team mate and once he knew what else they were as a unit capable of he would decide how best to utilize his skills. Although to be honest with a dangerous element like yoton being thrown about in the battle ahead Ekitai would most likely be using his abilities to put out a lot of fires... but that all depended on how hot headed this Raikage was fully capable of getting.

"So then, that must make you Sen Tokumaru from Iwagakure? Or am I mistaken? If I am mistaken I apologize sincerely."

[/font][/justify]

[~Kohana <3]

"You have no idea what your absence has done to the village; let alone her people." She had wanted to say herself as well, but she didn't want to specifically tell him that. Even as obvious as her reactions have been to tell the former Hokage her feelings, they wouldn't be voiced as such. Immediately she looked away from him and huffed, though more so to prevent the tears that had wanted to pool and fall from doing so. She was stronger than this after all. Instead she would use the child from Iwa as a distraction.

Really...?

The Hyuuga nearly glowered at him. Confidence was a good thing, that was for sure. But showing off as such wasn't always the ebst method. In fact, it only proved to show how immature he really was. Sighing, she reaching out and grabbed his fist when he pushed it out, pulling the boy forward. They were so close he was enarly pressed against her buxom form while she stared down. Veins crackled and bulged along her temples as her irises hardened and her vision expanded out. It was more so for intimidation then anything.

"I see you, boy." She started, before letting his fist go with a light shove. "Don't be a fool to think you only ever need one thing. Don't be as cocky to think that what you have now is great. Despite how powerful any of us are..." She shot Ryusuke a look. "There is always someone more powerful. Stay level headed lest you would rather get killed."

Despite her harshness, the reality was that her words were quite valid. After all, death came easy to those of the shinobi world unless you were careful, smart, and knew when to back down and try another day. Rash children had no place in that kind of world. However, she could tell the boys statement was true enough in the fact he was strong. Her eyes could see the power flowing through him, but that didn't mean to act like that. Sighing she stepped back to lean against the wall.

"Listen. We have our strengths and weaknesses, that's that. Lets just do what we need to do so we can claim this Hero title, satisfy the old bastard, and go home...alive."

Kohana glanced again towards the Uchiha. She didn't want him dead. No matter how much she disliked him, maybe even hated him, she simply could not wish death upon him. Perhaps it was because of how things were before, but even still she would rather know he was alive. If anything, he could be alive to wallow in whatever despair he had knowing how much the Leaf had fallen since his disappearance. That was her revenge and that was what made it only slightly satisfying to see him once again.

Jiyuu, I wish you would have came with me. Perhaps it would have helped you out of your slump. Maybe meeting Ryusuke would cause some change in you so you could be the Kage he once was...

A tear fell, but for what reason or because of what thought she couldn't tell.

Damn it, Jiyuu, damn it Ryusuke...

[¤ SFS ¤]

From their slight distance from one another the genin of Stone eyed his two would be teammates carefully. The thought of being separated from his comrade was beginning to weigh down on him and he found himself subconsciously zero'ing in on the conversation between Kei's new team while keeping his back to them. Ryu seemed as disciplined and reserved as ever, he and the Uchiha were really two of a kind if only in that manner.

The scathing comments of a busty Hyuuga didn't seem to bother the orange-haired ninja much but when said Hyuuga made veiled threats to Kei and then lectured him when he didn't back down from her threats it was clear who the one who was really bothered was. Who the hell put sand in her vagina?

[/i][/size] Sen's thoughts were his own and with his mind snapping back into the conversation of his own new team the spotlight was on him to introduce himself.

He hadn't been exactly ignoring what Eiichiro and Eikitai had been saying this whole time but his focus had been on Kei's team. He picked up on key words like "Raikage", "Hozuki", and "Youton" and some equally whimsical phrases like "...I have very few weaknesses so I'm skeptical I will actually die..." and even "...feel free to use me for any hazardous tasks". Bold things to say when you didn't know what all your teammates were capable of and what's more it was a bold thing to say when you didn't know what you were going to face with those teammates whom you didn't know what they were capable of.

Ekitai spoke with confidence which was respectable but he made assumptions of the situation without having all the pieces to the puzzle. In his own defense though Sen imagined him being Hozuki instead of a standard plain-jane Suiton user meant it was within the realm of possibility that this man could deliver on his words. The added bonus of it all was that despite proving himself to be possibly over-confident the Mist-nin was beyond a doubt willing to be a team player which was something the genin had the utmost respect for. If they could get a good amount of synergy going between them they could make an effective trio.

"There has been a mistake actually. The name is Toko[/u]maru. Tokomaru Sen."[/color][/b] He wasn't sure how to play up abilities and talents like other two had so instead he played them down preferring to save the showmanship for the trials that laid ahead of them. "I have some skill with elemental jutsu but it seems that all my releases are already present between the two of you."[/b] The truth was that all his releases were present in Eiichiro alone but that didn't make his statement any less true. "That being said I have prowess in Kagura jutsu as well as Genjutsu Kai. I'm also a skilled craftsman but I doubt that specific area of my talents will be of any use on this... quest."[/b] He might have come off to the others as stand-offish and distant, maybe even indifferent but that was because they didn't know him. His next words would reveal the bottom line on how he felt about having to work to with the likes of them.

"I look forward to pulling both your asses from the fire and I look even more forward to both of you doing the same for me."[/b] With a half grin and his arms crossed he awaited for their final orders with the rest of his team ready for whatever was coming their way.[/justify][/blockquote]

[Q]

After being ushered back into the Main Hall, and given time to socialize and begin forming bonds with their allies, the time had come for the next stage of the event to begin. Those that had arrived were lucky beyond all measure—the rewards they were to be given should the mission meet success were worth the journey to make it to Nakamura’s mansion. Now, with the massive double doors opening wide, a new parade of Samurai entered.

They surrounded their charges in an impenetrable wall of steel and chakra. The bandits in Kusa no Kuni, while not as active as they were in Taki no Kuni, could find no opening to assault the explorers that Nakamura had summoned. These men and women had been gathered from across the corners of the continent, plucked out of the most dangerous fields and the most prestigious universities. To a man such as Nakamura, money was not an issue—and it never would be.

The samurai broke formation and three men took their place at the head of the party. Those perceptive could see that at least two dozen, if not three dozen, more men were behind them. Odd devices could be seen carried on each—massive radios, large packages, and other such things meant for field use. The three that had stepped out, however, carried themselves differently than the rest. Whereas the majority of the explorers that emerged seemed rather shy or unused to being in such an environment (perhaps the journey was rougher for them then first imagined), these three were clearly seasoned veterans of their field.

“So, these’re the hired blades, eh?” From the middle came a strong voice—clearly the leader of this whole shebang. He was tall, standing higher than six feet, and kept his sleeved arms crossed. He was dressed rather nicely for someone of his profession, with a round had covering his grayed hair. Wrinkles crisscrossed his face like scars received from war, and his narrow eyes seemed to take in every moment the shinobi before him made.

“They are. Regardless, as per our orders, we are now returning to Tetsu no Kuni—fare thee well, Naito-Sama,” A samurai spoke out, his fur cape revealing his status as the troops leader.

“Understood.” Without so much as a wave or a glance, Naito waved off the samurai, who then bowed and marched out. The doors behind them closed, leaving the explorers in the hall with the shinobi. Muramasa appeared at the top of the balcony, observing the transpiring events below.

“Now then, to get to business. I was told it’s my job to inform you of this mission, and you mercs best listen.” Every word Naito spoke made it clearer that he thought little of the men and women before him. With a motion of his hand one of the explorers stepped forth, producing a long scroll that was unraveled and placed onto the ground. Touching a kanji in the center of it caused lights to erupt from the white canvas, forming a three-dimensional map of a massive, forested area. To the north lay mountains and to the south desert; however, the further one went west the darker the image became until terminating completely. Pointing to the black area, Naito spoke again. “This is our mission.

“Nakamura-Sama is someone who has hired us explorers to travel the world. He wants to know the worth of all the things in and on this planet before he dies, putting an end to a question that has plagued philosophers since the beginning of time. This is the penultimate mission of archeologist like us,” He put extra emphasis on the last part, establishing yet another line between them and the shinobi. “Ancient maps and other documents tell us that Kusa was not only smaller in previous generations, but that two other countries bordered our land. These two countries are spoken of only in legends which I assume you all have heard. They are Sora no Kuni and Akuma no Kuni, the Land of the Sky and the Land of the Demons.

“It is said that these two lands contained artifacts that contributed to the Great Flash so long ago, and that spirits walk in these forgotten kingdoms. Nakamura-Sama is someone who fancies such myths, and as such wants us to investigate, map, and retrieve any information, artifacts, and other such things that we can get from the suspected locations of these two places. This is where you lot come in.

“Sending explorers off by themselves into uncharted lands is foolish, and Nakamura-Sama is no fool. The samurai are too busy patrolling the world as peacekeepers to put men to our cause. Though there are not a lot of you, we have been told that the shinobi militaries of the world have pledged their best to help us and Nakamura-Sama in our goal. Simply put, you lot are supposed to aid us in any way we see fit, and protect us from any and all dangers. Nakamura-Sama has said he will reward you and your nations greatly, assuming we bring back what he are looking for and that none of us die.”

At that moment the three-dimensional map disappeared and the scroll was taken away. Naito’s hands were still crossed.

“Are we all clear?”

SPOILER: Click to show

Things continue on full throttle from here on out! 48 Hour IIC back in effect!

[Trigga]

Why bother challenging her words? Kohana, once a gentle soul had shown a darker side of her character, one that the Uchiha wasn’t particularly fond of. Nonetheless, regardless of her demeanor, and despite the near odious words that flooded the air, directed to drown the man of her interest, they were none the more truer. His absence, though not voluntary had divided his village and her people; they now queried his ability and his allegiance and if someone as loyal as the Hyūga before him was swayed in his leave, then Ryūsuke could have only imagined the fleeting affections his former villagers now shared for him.

Sighing, he’d tilt his head in confliction; if it was Kohana’s goal to break his spirit, she was slowly accomplishing such. Over the years, having built such a strong wall to the outside word and its influences, the Hokage was nonetheless still a victim of his own convictions. Konohagakure was his home and her people were his friends, family, and comrades. Without them he had nothing. While only a single person, Kohana embodied the will of the Hidden Leaf and was the window that allowed the Uchiha to see the condition of his village. Her doubt alone only spoke to the severity of its own gradually rising destruction; he had to do something in the near future.

He wouldn’t reply to what she had to say, her verbiage was easily interpreted and she knew full well her actions against him roused his anger and confusion. Instead, taking a step back from reality, he would meditate. Closing his eyes and seeing the world with clarity only accessible to the free of confliction in the mind, he attempted to gather his thoughts and presence. Meanwhile Kohana continued to ridicule and scold the youngest of the three; she however was right again in her claim. Quite the hardnosed conversationalist, her way with words didn’t impede her ability to stay on the path of truth.

His eyes opening, amber hues took in the sight of the Hyūga peering upon his bearings. Her glare as deathly as before, a new element was present; while she didn’t orally mention it, Ryūsuke was no fool. Over the years, he had gained such ample social prowess that illustrating the emotional state of others through simple eye contact had become second nature; the luxury of being a leader. She attempted to hide it, though his concentration and capability to perceive and take in the world itself was unrivaled. A single string of grief falling from her eyes as she cried silently. Sighing, he would reach out, his arm extending to her and his palm resting upon her shoulder; he would hold such an impassive stare, it was hard to read his state of mind. His hand moving upwards, a single finger was all that he needed to wipe away the tear.

“I will make amends, Kohana; even if it spend my last breath doing so..

[/color]”

Taking his hand away, he would turn from the two, not having the mental strength to look her in the eyes as they swiftly found themselves encircled by numerous samurai. Emerging in unison, a rather large battalion of man with three distinct individuals at the front, the Uchiha’s brow lifted. Allowing the eldest to speak, his wrinkled face and grey locks were but a testament to the wealth of knowledge and skill he possessed. Hid made his profession and their mission quite clear and with the mentioning of two provinces list in the realm of myth curiosity couldn’t have been higher. They would begin soon.
[/blockquote][/blockquote][/justify][/font]

[♠Solo♠]

It had appeared he tickled the woman's brain in a way she didn't like. Despite the pure honesty of Kei, and the confidence he held in his ability, he in no way, wished to perturb the woman anymore than she apparently already was with the former Hokage. He understood his position, and the events that took place it seemed. He had no want to argue with her. However Kei did. Her Byakugan active and gazing at him, no. Through him. She spoke like every other supposed "adult" that he had encountered before. They all underestimated him. They all looked down to him. His age or personality was the reason behind it all, but he was who he was.

The woman attempted to push his extended fist back, but with no aid from chakra, or any other outside force she would merely find herself attempting to push weight far superior to her observation. His rock hard arm remained where it was with her pushing it. He left it extended slightly as he stared at her. If she was to intimidate him into acting whatever way she wished him to, she would only find herself failing.

She continued her speech, which Kei half heatedly listened to. He merely grinned slightly, before placing his arms behind his head and sighing. It was all stuff he heard before, and he was frankly tired of hearing the same speeches from the same old farts whom thought they were superior because of age, or their own background.

"If you're so tough, lady," as he spoke he shot her a look from the side of his head. Only one hue would be faced to her. "We can always take it outside. I'll show you some action." Before the group could continue bickering, they would be interrupted by the sudden rush of Samurai. They all looked fierce. At least to some degree. The obvious veterans spoke out, showing their leadership. Realizing they were no longer needed they would continue their patrols around the world.

Left with just the one called Naito to explain the situation. His choice of words, his manners, his tone. It was all irritating. More so he had a mouthy Hyuuga and a odd Uchiha in his ranks. The one he knew as Ryu seemed docile enough, but he was an Uchiha and former Hokage. It would only take a tiny event before his true colors had shown. Kei assumed to himself that he probably held his nose in the air higher than the Hyuuga woman. He wanted to complain, or at the very least, take out some of the aggression he had pent up in him, but he knew he had to listen to the annoying Naito preach about the rich old fart and the mission. Searching for artifacts and such wasn't something Kei found too exciting. He wanted just a few minutes with the old man. If he really wanted to know the value of the world, it was power. Always have been. People rise to the ranks of kage and other noted ranks, because of power.

The final question was asked to the group, wondering if they all were clear. Kei sighed slightly and his arms flopped to his sides, as though he let go off all the nerves that controlled it. It was almost like looking at a rag doll's arms flop.

"Yeah. Clear. Can we start already?"

[~Kohana <3]

Immediately her fist raised the moment that the former Hokage's finger touched her cheek to wipe away the singular tear that had dared to fall from her eyes. However as her fist extended out to slub the man something faltered within her and her fist went lax and her fingers unraveled as the punch turned to a slap. Why couldn't she bring herself to punch him? A shade of red went across her cheek as she turned, again, using the boy to distract her. Perhaps that was worse though. His arrogance was sickening.

"It-It's not about being tough. Power can only get you so much. But you're still a kid, you won't really know until your balls finally decide to drop." It was vulgar and in all honesty she was never as bad as she had been so far here at the giant mansion to the old idiot. Seeing Ryu had absolutely brought the worst out in her and that in itself was enough to scare her. Her anger may have been a cover up for the hurt but how could she say she didn't want the Uchiha to see how bad it effected her when she still acted this way? After all, anger was just as a powerful emotion as sadness or regret.

Inhaling sharply, choosing to ignore Ryu and the dumb antics of the kid, she refocused on all of the samurai as they flooded the room once more. From them, three people came forward, one in particular, seeming to be the leader of the three, staring them all down. If anything she assumed that they were going to be the ones that they had to follow around like bodyguards while searching for whatever it is that the old man desired. The moment that the older man spoke however, she disliked him. He acted as if he were better than every single last shinobi here.

Kohana held her tongue however, saying anything to him wouldn't prove to be beneficial at all. Besides, she needed to calm down. If she continued to be angry and go off at the drop of a pin then she would be the one that would be the liability and that just simply wasn't an option whatsoever. Besides, She knew Ryu wasn't exactly a master at medical ninjutsu. A dabbler perhaps, but not a master, and it was obvious the muscle for brains child wouldn't know a medical technique if it bit him in the ass. Because of that she had to stay level headed in case her skills were needed.

Land of Sky and Land of Demons? Those were lands told of in fairytales and fables. Are we really searching for them? Did they really exist at one point?

Briefly she glanced around at the others that had gathered here per request of their Kage for any sort of reaction. After all, she couldn't be the only one somewhat shocked to hear such countries spoke of. Regardless of the tall tales told of those lands, the Hyuuga shrugged a little, then continued to roll her shoulders. "I suppose I'm ready as I could ever be." Her voice didn't sound harsh and full of knives this time that she spoke. In fact, it was soft, smooth like velvet, and actually sounded as though each syllable was said with a sultry undertone.

Kohana just wanted to get this show on the road already. Despite the size of the mansion, she wanted to get out of the stuffy place and just get the job done. Besides, what better way to improve the outlook of the villagers back home then for one of them to come home a Hero? It would at least help with morale and perhaps allow for Jiyuu to perk up some.

[vegapunk]

"I have some skill with elemental jutsu but it seems that all my releases are already present between the two of you."

It would be these words, and these words only, that would spur any curiosity in the golden-haired shinobi. After initial introductions he saw no need to keep his attention aligned towards the men in his group - slowly drifting off into space like he mostly did when he was bored. It was no sign of disrespect or discourse, merely, a trait which had been much a part of him as the armor on the samurai which surrounded them. However, after hearing the statement from Tokomaru Sen he couldn't help but feel an issue of intrigue - interesting, I wonder if he his talking about his basic releases or something more...

Kicking his heel off of the ground he would lounge his back against one of the stone pillars which littered the hall. Reaching into a pouch he would pull out a single cigarette before placing back where it once resided. Nestled between his slender fingers, he would begin to light the tip before a plume of grey smoke entered the surrounding air. He would offer his new partners a cigarette, but in all honesty, he didn't have many left and feared that this trip would be a cause for stress. Nonchalant and laid-back his demeanor would not provoke any attention, and even when a large patrol of samurai entered through the main double doors he would not proceed to lift his head in acknowledgement.

But he was still looking...

Three men entered ahead of a platoon of samurai, another bunch of goons would then proceed to appear behind him also. Eiichiro could not fault this man and his capacity to pull on endless resources. If Eiichiro didn't know any better he would have thought the man to be displaying his wealth in every which-way possible. A physically frail man, he needed to express his importance in the room and to show that he was still in charge. As these thoughts danced through his head one of the three leading men would begin to speak. This guy must be one of the head explorers.. Eiichiro thought to himself as he took another long-winded 'drag' on his cigarette. He couldn't help but feel out of place. The formality conflicted with his own attire making the whole experience seem somewhat unsettling.

As the man spoke the arrogance expressed from the his whole demeanor would seep through the pores of all that listened to his haughtiness. Calling the shinobi gathered here mere merc's was only a slap in the face, and Eiichiro could see some conflict arising from the many ego's which consumed this room alone. However, as he continued to speak, his words did not fall on deaf ears - as Eiichiro became interested in what he had began to say . Land of Sky, Demons, spirits? the words echoing in his head. But it was one particular aspect that truly caught his attention. So, he does plan to not only reward us but our nations also, Eiichiro reflected. As Raikage, he could think of nothing better than to gain a hefty resource boost for his village. There importance was paramount. There was much that still needed to be done - especially in the unknown times ahead. But, respect should be given where due - and this man had already gotten on Eiichiro's nerves. Speaking softly to himself he would express a somewhat disgruntled and cold tone.

"Tch..a merc? He'll be exploring these places with no limbs if he keeps that attitude up.."

[/justify][/font]

[¤ SFS ¤]

The arrival of more samurai simply meant that things were getting closer to the end for this opening act of their adventure. Not a moment too soon as well, because now that he was acquainted with his teammates he was all the more ready to face down whatever it was that was waiting for them in the darkness of this challenge.

Of course that darkness became literal as a man stepped to the front and explained the basis of their mission. Of all the things that went into his explanation the thing Sen found the hardest to believe was that there was still areas of the world cut off to man, especially men like Nakamura. He mused that Nakamura was probably just as vexed by this as Sen himself was which might have been why this whole thing was taking place to begin with. Filling the lot of them in on what was expected of them and the parameters of the mission was the man so far addressed as Naito. He seemed to have a subconscious desire to draw lines in the sand that divided himself and his peers from those who had traveled here today at Nakamura's behest.

It was one thing to have reservations about ninja and working with ninja if that wasn't something you did often he knew full well how stubborn old men could be once set in their ways. But, to subliminally disrespect the lot of them yet expect their full cooperation at protecting him and his kind, all the while flaunting his opinions as if they were fact was something Sen wouldn't let go unchecked.

"Are we all clear?"

"No. We're not all clear."

[/b] He'd been standing with his teammates but he left their side to face Naito. With Kei's arrival he knew he wasn't the youngest ninja here but he was sure he was one of the least experienced although it was likely he was wrong about that. He hoped whatever he was about to say wouldn't tarnish the standing of Iwagakure but his eyes were hard and locked on the self-described archeologist. "Ninja have never been particularly loved by other professionals and even civilians. But don't forget the situation."[/b]

From the neck down he appeared relaxed with his hands in his pockets and his body relaxed. From the neck up though his stare was a piercing one and despite his youthful appearance his baritone gave weight to his words which he delivered with conviction. "We all showed up here as a sign of good faith. Neither you nor the old man has done anything for any of our villages at this point and that's fine. I doubt any of us expected to come through the doors and be made rich simply for showing up."[/b]


Normally he was able to let such things slide off his back. In fact it was hard for someone to get under his skin and get a reaction out of him. "Don't act as if you're above us and don't act as if we owe you anything. We're here to do a job and we're going to do it, and we'll do it well. With all the rewards at stake the old man could have hired enough mercenaries to fill a city. Instead he asked for help from the hidden villages and got seven of the best the ninja world has to offer. Your penultimate mission and Nakamura's last question might be finding the value of a land that time forgot and adding that to the value of the rest of the world but don't think for a second that you know the value of us."[/b] He meant no disrespect, or at least that hadn't been his original intention.

Turning to return to his teammates another thought hit him and so he looked over his left shoulder at Naito with one more message. "One more thing... To gather resources be it funds, skills, items or individuals and further the advancement of our respective villages and nations... This is the penultimate mission of ninja like US."[/b]

"Despite being here for a payment of some sort we aren't "mercs". We're shinobi, don't pretend to not know the difference."[/b] Having spoke his peace he returned to Eiichiro and Ekitai, the expression on his face no different than it had been when introducing himself to them.[/justify][/blockquote]

[The Dude]

After having met and conversed with his team mates Ekitai withdrew a pack of cigarettes from his vest's breast pocket and quickly tapped one out sliding it up to his lips lighting it just as some new people arrived. From their leader's attitude he seemed to regard their own work as superior to the ninja, a somewhat fair assumption considering the ninja were seemingly only there to protect them. This was nothing new to him as he served as a protector for much of Kiri's royal family as they couldn't always protect themselves. So here he was again protecting self imposed 'superiors' for the money.

His team mate Tokomaru Sen seemed to have been moved or disturbed in someway by their disrespectful treatment of the shinobi. Ekitai stood behind shaking his head slowly and exhaling a plume of smoke. Even though his new friend may be right, there wasn't much to be done at this point to change the minds of those who felt 'superior' in anyway. Only real way to get them to change their minds was simply to prove them wrong, and Ekitai highly doubted they actually thought little of the shinobi. This was considered a frightening mystical place from the sounds of things, why would anyone wander around in there freely unless they felt their protection was up to the task.

No, what bothered Ekitai though was the question of pay. The man mentioned they would only be paid... if they found what they were looking for. Normally this wouldn't bother the Hozuki because normally the task would be something that was possible. Tracking down mythical philosophical answer to questions seemed highly likely to be a wild goose chase that could still get them into a lot of trouble. Even if they did everything just right and made it back alive, if what this man was looking for didn't actually exist then all the shinobi here... including kages themselves will have wasted their time entirely...

[/font][/justify]

[☆ F ☆]

I interpreted Masuyo’s silence as one of meditation, the youth having changed in ways I could not possibly know of for the last ten years. However, I would take no offense to the lack of response, as our present company would more than make up for my old friend’s silence. We were moved once more, our teams assigned and now our purpose stated. The one with the coin, the old bag dying with one last wish, he had chosen to retreat. Now, it would be time to talk business amongst men.

“…”

I could sense by the tone of the man explaining the purpose of our presence here that our fame wasn’t the highest, most likely due to the common prejudice held that hired blades were somehow unintelligent. I would not look into it too much, allowing the misconceptions to live on uninterrupted. I was well aware of both my strength and my intelligence. I was not one requiring the acknowledgement of others in order to thrive. Such is why I nonchalantly shifted my weight from left to right, arms crossed at my chest as I kept a calm and neutral stare over our storyteller.

One down.

I needed to say nothing after the speech, using my time instead to assimilate everything I just heard. The sudden sprouting of the lower nations was odd enough, but with the mentioning of even longer lost countries, I knew something was amiss. For now, I could do nothing but wait; regardless, I was eager.

[/font]

[~Kohana <3]

This is finished. I'll need a mod to grade my part in this as well.

Strider- 30
Sen- 68
Gene- 43
Tae- 57
Vega- 57
Dude- 43
Fina- 32
Solo- 29
Adero- 10