Potential [Gana]

[Apple]

The scene was set, morning in Kusagakure. The eastern garedens were barren of people, the lush plain of grass covered by various flowers and plants grown at the start of the Shodaime’s reign within the village. The flowers themselves budding, the trees however were either fully grown, reaching considerable heights after having spent years within the village and escaped the attacks over the last decade, the others were young, only recently planted. The sky was clear and the sun began to shine down, lighting up each little inch of the village that it could find. Everything else was shadowed by the trees and buildings, rendering the warm air a cool haze. It was a nice day - But it was standard weather for citizens of Kusa no Kuni.

The village wasn’t awake just yet.

But for those who were, they’d take notice of the statuesque Kusakage roaming the gardens. Although a small space, it was quite beautiful. Considering that several years ago the place was ablaze with flames and rife with destruction and death, it was quite the contrast. Of course- To those who hadn’t seen the inside of Kusagakure before now it would look average, the same as any other village, but to those who had lived within it during the first shinobi war, it was a stark contrast. And it was this that the Kusakage herself believed, as she walked around, gazing at each piece of nature which covered the area, kneeling down frequently to look at the flora below her feet. It wouldn’t take long for the visitor she’d been waiting for to arrive, surely. Until then, she’d keep walking with her golden hair flowing in the wind, looking around at the calming sights that she had been the creator of.

[/justify][/font][/size]

[Heisui; Samurai For Hire.]

''Wow.. it's stunning."

I admired as I stared up at the sunlight, the presence of the ANBU from the gate not enough to deter my appreciation of this place. ''Mmn.. she would have loved this." I found myself whispering quietly, a small tear streaking down my cheek as I took in the sights and sounds of nature in its entirety.

Well, nearly.

I still couldn't shake that feeling of uneasiness I got from the ANBU at the Gate, the paranoia this woman must possess leading me to believe that she wouldn't be extremely welcoming. But, maybe I was wrong? In the end, a malicious, cold hearted woman wouldn't foster such a beautiful garden and assortment of trees, right? .. Right?

''Is.. that her?"

I murmured as I stared towards the woman in front of me, the wordless reply I received from the ANBU confirming my suspicions. She was.. pretty, to say the least, but that gorgeous blonde hair only served as a reminder of my past, where most men would have seen a slab of meat to spill their seed, I saw a beautiful young lady, seemingly tending to her village.

''Hello, Miss Kusakage."

I chirped as I slowly approached the woman, my ANBU companion not far behind me. ''My name is.. well, my name is Heisui. And.. I was wandering if I could seek permission to open a dojo here?" Scratching the back of my head habitually, I let out a short fit of chuckles, the cold confidence I tried to exude being completely dissipated by my outburst. ''Oh, uhm.. excuse me. I should get to specifics, aye'?"

''My family.. is gone, my spark is gone and to be brutally honest, the only things I still have are the clothes on my back, my swords and my ability. I used to be the best around back in my day, well.. unofficially, y'know? B--.. But I digress, my skills are still quite keen, if I do say so myself."

As I spoke the last portion of my spiel, I went to grasp the hilt of my sword, in order to give her a demonstration. But, midway through the motion, I felt myself freeze; I was about to pull a sword on the Kusakage. ''.. But, eurghm.." Masking it with a gentle itch on my stubbly chin, I laughed once again, my downpour of information continuing soon after.

''.. Anyway, I wish to open a children's dojo to start with, to honor my daughter." I found myself wiping a tear from my eye before continuing on. ''I trekked all the way from Kaminari no Kuni to here, in hopes that you'd give an old, broken man a chance at helping the children of your village. If it means anything to you, I met one of yer chuunin-types outside the village? He said he'd put a good word in for me, but I can't remember his name for the life of me." Cupping my chin in thought, I glanced towards the woman, hoping I hadn't already tried her patience.

''But.. in the end, it's up to you. I-.. I know that you ninja types don't really like outsiders, and I can't blame ya', but an old man like me isn't going to cause any trouble, I promise."

[/justify][/font]

[Apple]

I’d been told by the ANBU that there had been someone interested in meeting with me at the gates. Luckily for him, at that time I’d had nothing going on, although I wanted a different scene from the atrium itself. Despite being a beautiful building, it remained the same. At least here there was always something new to look at, and despite the fact that my main priority at this time was my meeting with the visitor, it didn’t stop me from indulging in the beautiful sights of my own village. However- Such things were cut short as I soon became apparent of his arrival through the sound of his footsteps plodding against the earth. Although it was only barely audible, there wasn’t that much about bar from the sound of birds to divulge such sounds from. Turning towards him, my blue eyes catching sight of a figure that seemed all too familiar. The same skin tone- Hair- As he approached, I took the liberty of examining him from head to toe, and the slight disappointment that soon came realizing that he wasn’t who I’d initially thought him to be. The resemblance wasn’t uncanny, but at a brief glance the two seemed all too much the same. As he then called my title, I’d perk my head and cross my arms, preparing myself for whatever he had to propose to me. I’d heard that he had plans of opening a dojo- A dojo? In a village foreign to his own? It seemed much too strange, but I’d give him a chance. His actions soon followed, a scratch of the head along with perhaps an awkward laugh, and I couldn’t help but fall for the same concept which I’d grown previously – It wasn’t Momochi, I was sure of that, even with his speech falling similar to the one that I’d known all that time ago. He was dead, as much as I hated to admit it- And besides, he was too short to be him.

''Oh, uhm.. excuse me. I should get to specifics, aye'?"

”..Go on.”

As he divulged on his tale and on himself, I’d simply listen and do not much more than that. Of course, wary that he could be anyone I was on my guard, but I developed a casual stance as he spoke, listening in to each little bit of information that he fed me about his reasoning for being in the village and why he chose to create a dojo. I waited for such information, but as I stood quietly, I’d soon be given what I wanted, and I couldn’t help but feel not pity, but sympathy for the man, regardless or not if his tale was false. In the bone; I knew that I was perhaps one of the most motherly kunoichi in the shinobi world, or at least I was somewhere on the top. Simply the concept of it drew me in although I had to remind myself not to commit to such a concept without being given facts, information, and more importantly, and agreement. He didn’t belong to the village after all. Moving my feet so that I shifted from the left to the right before grounding in the center once more, I continued to listen, dismissing the action of him nearly pulling out what I could see was a sword- I’d be able to fight him off easily if things turned bad, but somehow, I doubted that it would even come to that.

''.. Anyway, I wish to open a children's dojo to start with, to honor my daughter."
”..Oh?”

Although I seemed to be listening intently, I paused, my eyes softening.

”..Your daughter?”

I understood that my tone was more inquisitive than I’d inititally meant it to be, but it simply came out. With the war having reaped so many souls, I didn’t doubt the idea that she had passed away. Nothing could compare to such a feeling of loss. Nothing in the entire world. I felt a strong, overpowering sense of empathy for him, a mere stranger for perhaps a moment or so before shaking my head. ”I’m sorry.” I’d speak, attempting to condone the perhaps slightly ignorant outburst that I’d done merely moments ago. Almost melting I soon had to bring myself together and give him a clear response to the proposition that he’d created, although I had to make sue not to base my decision on my own thoughts and feelings. The village was my priority- And if this man didn’t seem fit to dwell within it, lest he be some kind of Trojan horse, then he’d be sent away. Re-ajusting my own vivid blue eyes to gaze at his own dulled hue, I couldn’t have seen a more different character to my own. He seemed down-trodden, not wasted but moreso lowly, which was completely opposite to my own neat, angelic features. With my black heels, I easily towered him over a few inches, but regardless- I needed to know more.

”Will you swear all of your allegiance to Kusagakure? Truth be told you give an interesting case but I cannot jeopardize the safety of my people.

Where do you come from?”

These weren't the end of my questions. With my hands now posed on my wide hips, I kept watch, and waited for his response. I assumed that he didn't hail from a shinobi but I couldn't be too sure. I couldn't even be sure of whether or not his appearance was false either. Perhaps it was my own anxiousness rising up above anything else, but I still felt the same innate empathy for the loss that I assumed he'd suffered. It was clear within my eyes, but at the same time, I had to be careful of where I placed my decisions.

[/justify][/size][/font]

[Heisui; Samurai For Hire.]

''All business, it seems."

I let out a quiet sigh of disappointment as the seemingly homely woman got straight to business, the realization that she was, in fact, still a shinobi dawning on me. But as she continued on, seemingly taking interest in my story, I began to perk up. She didn't have to apologize or even acknowledge what I had said, and for the very fact that she did, I owed her a great deal of thanks.

''Please don't apologize, Miss Kusakage. I should apologize to you for not being able to bring my wife and daughter here."

As I delivered my words, the fog in my eyes began to thicken before it formed into a stream of tears, the genuine anguish I felt about the situation I had been left in leaving me standing there, a complete mess in front of this woman. ''Ex--.. Excuse the tears, Miss. I'm sorry, but it is still.. raw for me." Beaming a dopey smile towards her, I quickly wiped away the moisture that settled on my weary face, before opting to continue with my explanation.

''I have held no allegiance with another village, as I have always lived out in the country. And.. while I'm not sure what you expect of a man like me, I would be willing to take an Oath of Servitude."

Sniffling, I had hoped that my agreement would be enough for her. After all, I was offering her an able body, mind and blade, surely she couldn't want anything else from me? Seemingly not, it seemed, but the one thing she had wanted was something I could appease; information. ''I'm from Kaminari no Kuni, ma'a--.. Miss Kusakage. That is where I lived and trained, but I have also traveled to other countries in my youth." Itching my head in thought, I looked towards the woman and tried my best to keep my composure, this was an negotiation, not a story circle.

''If you would allow me to, Miss, I would sleep in my dojo, too. I have only amassed a small amount of money on the way here, but I am saving up.. well, I'm saving up for a rainy day, you could say."

Chuckling at my own words as I stroked my sword, I couldn't help but begin to grin, the cheekiness that my last comment left me feeling bringing back a small spark of optimism. ''.. Ehe, maybe even a date with a woman blind or sad enough to get a drink with me." I began to chuckle again, before clearing my throat to clear the air. ''B--.. But, I should tell you a couple of things before we commit to anything here."

''I have killed many men, Miss, many corrupt, foolhardy men. While my primary concern is opening a dojo, I am also willing to bodyguard anybody that you assign me to. This is my home, should you allow me to stay here. And as such, I will kill anybody that tries to harm the inhabitants, but.. just know that I have one rule when it comes to my loyalty."

''.. If I ever see a child harmed in my stay here, I will kill the trash that touched them."

[/font][/justify]

[Apple]

His own denial of my own apology was wrought with one of his own, and I couldn’t help but feel considerably weakened beneath his words, my strength drained. Sadness was amassed in several ways but I hadn’t seen a character- a man of his kind for years now and in response I too felt the same degree of grief as I had gone through a similar position myself. Time hadn’t erased such feelings but my mind had to a certain degree, and for that, I was glad, else I’d have found myself crying alongside him as he seemed to be doing so, although I stood with my eyes hardened, watching his tears trickle down his face whilst being illuminated somewhat by the sunlight above. It simply made me wonder how Momochi would react, had he known- Had he been alive, that is. Combined with his own tears I too felt the need to cry for my own self-pity but I rejected such an idea. I was the Kusakage after all, and even with such a loose grip on myself compared to years ago, I needed to keep up the same appearance. I couldn’t afford to be seen as an emotional wreck in front of the village, let alone a complete stranger. What would that make me out to be?

''Ex--.. Excuse the tears, Miss. I'm sorry, but it is still.. raw for me."

”..Don’t apologize.
I understand..”

I spoke such words softly, the same amount of empathy in them as before as I watched him clear his eyes- His smile- everything taking me back to my youth in Kusagakure. Although I fell silent once more, I still listened to him as he spoke. My assumptions of him seemed to reveal themselves to be true, as the moment that he’d approached me I’d been unable to see any sign of a headband- Had he even had chakra capabilities? I didn’t doubt the concept but given his keenness with swords and his build, I could only guess that taijutsu was his main prowess, which also backed up his proclamation of wishing to create a dojo. And his want to create a dojo for children surely spanned from his own loss, perhaps wanting that feeling of parenting to return to him. It was an admirable dream, although I wouldn’t admit it. I found myself sucked in by such a concept myself, mostly due to my own personal reasons, but at the same time it came to me that developing a dojo within the village would only help aid to strengthen the future of the village- the children themselves who chose to study under him. But no- I was drawing myself in to it much too soon. The predominant side of me had taken a lesser status and my weaknesses had enveloped my whole being and personality. I had become much too lenient. ”..I see..”

With my choice of words only barely audible, I went on to consider the things that he’d spoken about. Kusagakue still had a few empty buildings which were due to be reconstructed, although there were no plans for a few. I’d ordered several to be turned in to houses for the surge of populace within the village, but I was sure that one could be spared for him should I agree to his request. But however tempting his offer seemed, as I, alike himself had a fondness for children, I still had more to ask him in regards to his plans. "And- Can I be assured that you will find yourself home here? I'm unsure of your tendencies to travel, but for the sake of consistency I'd rather you not leave for another country every other day." His truthfulness to admit that he had killed was somewhat of a surprise to me as I was sure that given the nature of his request and his arrival in the village I was sure that he’d be more keen to hide such things like that, but being up-front about it all was respectable to a degree, although his final words- I understood wholeheartedly, and nodded to go along with my understanding, my long tresses of gold bobbing up and down alongside it. I couldn’t dismiss the fact that I too had killed- and will kill. The temporary state of peace, of harmony within my mind couldn’t last, and soon, I’d be back to my old self, and I feared that day. However- My fears were soon distracted as again- he mimicked him, my Momochi with his enthusiasm to both entertain and protect youth. More and more he reminded me of him and more and more my mind wandered, simply mourning the fact that he wasn’t here now by my side. I was sure that he’d have jumped in to the man’s offer as the two seemed much too similar. I found myself staring at him blankly where it was my own turn to speak to him, and I dragged myself away from this to prevent myself appearing ignorant or airheaded. ”You and I share the same priorities as it seems.” I spoke gently, my own inclination made clear as I leaned to the side. ”I’m interested in your offer.” I’d reveal to him, if it hadn’t already been made obvious.

”Kusagaure has plenty of empty buildings and children to educate.”

“I’m sure that you could set up your dojo somewhere.
..However..”

I'd pause, unsure of how to speak to the next few words.

"Be sure that if you choose to take advantage of this trust, then I won't hesitate to personally show you the consequences of your actions."

My warning was clear, despite the same feminine tone I'd used to speak it in. My words were stern, and I meant business. If he chose to disobey my trust or do anything that could risk the safety of the village, then given the fact that I had agreed to have him in the village, I'd be the one to sort out the mess that I'd created. But- Although I did show my own enthusiasm towards his idea, I still had questions. His offer of being a body guard was quite interesting. Although I bore no need for someone to protect myself at all times, I was sure that such an offer would become useful at some point given the nature of it. But- Waiting for him to understand the promise which I'd made to him in regards to his fate if he chose to misuse the generosity I was prepared to give him, I'd stand still, my hands still poised beautifully on my hips.

[/justify][/size][/font]

[Heisui; Samurai For Hire.]

''Of course, as long as I have a dojo, I have a home. And as long as I have a home, I have no reason to leave this place."

I quickly responded to her doubts, the eager way that I piqued up making my features darken with embarrassment. ''Well.. that's if you give me a home, of course." I shyly muttered, my tongue moistening my dry lips, an awkward gesture, no doubt. But as she continued on, I noticed that she even drew a comparison between us; something that I wouldn't expect from a woman of her caliber. In a way, she even began to remind me of my wife.

''Pri--.. Priorities? Good, that's good, Miss. And might I say, you're more like my.. well, you remind me of somebody that I used to know."

I nervously responded, my eyes sparkling from the tears that began to form yet again, though this time it was out of nostalgia, not pain. ''This wasn't a mistake, it seems." I thought to myself as she began to come to an answer, seemingly, but the severity of it wasn't something I could guess. Surely she'd want me to work for her first, or get an idea of my abilities? There was no way that she could have trusted somebody like me, a broken, beaten down samurai.

”Kusagaure has plenty of empty buildings and children to educate.”

“I’m sure that you could set up your dojo somewhere.

''.."

I stood there, completely in awe of what she had just said, the other words that followed falling on deaf ears. ''Tha--.. I'm.." As I fumbled with my words, I fell to my knees in front of the woman, my eyes balling into fists at my chest. I finally did it, I was finally on the path to achieving my goal. ''Oh--.. oh, oh my.. I can't even find the words.." Clutching my hitatare, I looked up at the woman, my eyes filled to the brim with tears.

''Tha-- thank you so much, Miss Kusakage. Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!"

I screamed victoriously, my hands shaking with excitement as I began to sob with joy, the sudden surge of emotion making my body nearly collapse on the ground. I couldn't thank this woman enough for what she had just given me, for it was something that possessed no monetary value. She had just blessed me with happiness.

''Trust me, please.. I won't betray your trust, Miss. I am forever in your debt, now and until I die."

Moving my hand to my Se, I expertly slid him out of his sheathe and stabbed it into the ground beside me, before placing my hand on my heart. ''Today, I swear to pro--.. protect you with my life, Miss Blanc--.. Kusakage. Neither man nor demon shall touch you, as long as I still draw breath." Breaking up my oath with sniffles and exasperated breaths, I found myself blushing yet again, though it did little to add to the already beet red tone of my face.

''I-I will mold these children into cap--.. capable warriors, do not worry. My life now belongs to Kusagakure and her leader."

[/justify][/font]

[Apple]

His answer was reassuring but I couldn’t’ be sure. It was understandable enough to be concerned about it – especially seeing as it was my own village, my life would be the thing would take the most damage if he chose to break away. But regardless- although I knew that whatever impressions that I gathered of him now could easily proven incorrect later on in the future, he seemed genuine with his request. Words passed and he himself spoke of someone that he had used to know, comparing myself to them. ”..Hm?” It only reminded me so much of a meeting I’d had in the land of Iron with another figure of whom I had been sure I’d known. Brown hair, tanned skin- He could have been anyone. The only difference was that, if I could recall my drunken thoughts and memories from all those years ago, he’d been much more well built than him- A grand, lumbering giant from what I could recall. But he’d felt so familiar, almost comforting, although the alcohol had consumed me by that stage. But almost as if I was now in the same intoxicated state as I found myself in, I found myself jumping the whole precautions that I’d created to prevent such ideas from breaking in to my very core, and yet at the same time, I hadn’t the heart to break down a concept that I too agreed and supported personally. Whilst war threatened to break the peace between the villages at every waking moment, the village had to be ready. Whilst I didn’t condone children fighting or being involved, they needed protection, and if the worst came to worst where they needed to protect themselves, at least they’d know some self-defense, assuring his concept went to plan.

”As long as you swear to serve the country and protect it during its time of need, you’ll be permitted to start your life here. I expect you to show the same amount of dedication to the village as any other citizen.”

And despite the entire amount of hate within my veins, even I couldn’t help but crack a small smile as I saw his reaction to my agreement to his idea. As long as he proved faithful to the village then he’d be permitted to stay, although I’d have to decide whether or not he’d be permitted to live as a shinobi of the village, but at the same time, I was unsure if he’d choose to live life as one. From this day forward I’d consider him one of my villagers. I would have said something about it had the man not been displaying a wild display of emotion before my very eyes, seemingly taking the acceptance perhaps more appreciatively than I’d already guessed he would. As he fell and demonstrated his allegiance in quite an elaborate show of dedication, a metallic blade stabbed in to the very earth of the eastern gardens, I’d watch and envelop myself in the heightened sense of emotion that he displayed. It was.. somehow fulfilling to see people so happy through my own actions and as he gathered himself, I continued to stand silent, unsure of how to respond exactly at this very moment. I hadn’t been faced with such an emotional person in a while.

”..My life now belongs to Kusagakure and her leader."



”……”

I allowed him a few moments to breathe before I spoke next.

”..Heisui, wasn’t it?” I’d ask.

”..What kind of ability will you condone?
And more importantly, what kind of children will you teach?”

They were basic questions. I already guessed what he’d be teaching them, but would his practice be open for everyone that stepped foot within his dojo? I couldn’t be sure of that, but I had faith in the fact that he would teach them well. Although by first impressions he appeared to be poor and down on his luck, even I could feel the potential within him. ”I’m unsure of your standing for the proposition of becoming a shinobi in the village. However, if you show the village enough promise I may present you a headband.” Given the fact that he appeared to be a citizen of a smaller village, he didn’t seem to bear any sign of shinobi affiliation- Surely enough, he wasn’t even a shinobi. Would he choose to stay like this and keep his involvement with the village of grass? Or would he prefer to become an official shinobi of the village? Regardless of his decision, I wanted to see how he performed around the village before committing myself wholly to his presence. His appearance alone hit much too close to home than I’d have originally wished, but I couldn’t let that base my decisions in regards to him.

"I'll look in to finding a building for you.
In the meanwhile; prove to me that you deserve to stay here."

[/justify][/size][/font]

[Heisui; Samurai For Hire.]

''Th--.. Thank you again."

I sniffled pathetically as I climbed to my feet, the hand that rested on my hilt acting as a form of balance as I continued to shake from the good news. ''Excuse me, Miss. This is just the only good news I've gotten in years, it won't happen again." I coughed nervously to try and clear the air, the awkward way that I brushed my hitatare making me wince with embarrassment, but regardless of my actions, she still continued on, seemingly unphased.

''A--.. Ability? Well, I specialize in Iai--.. defensive swordplay, Miss. They won't be going around cutting raccoons in half, but they'll be able to parry the rain off of a man's jaw."

As I got more excited at the idea of training, I reassumed my grip on Se and quickly ripped him from the ground, the invigorating sense of joy forcing me to swing a few times to let it out. ''Block the wind from the leaves, the water from the stream or the spark from the flame, what does it leave you? Nothing, Miss." I laughed at the old samurai expression and turned to face the woman, the cheeky smile that slid across my features a stark contrast to my still wet eyes.

''Give me a month and I could turn a haughty ten year old into a human hurricane, Miss Kusakage."

Fully confident in my abilities, I began to approach the woman, my hand effortlessly sliding Se back into his sheath. But as I began to near her, I felt a familiar sensation hollow out a portion of my stomach.. I was starving, and the loud, abysmal gurgling that rolled throughout my body reaffirmed it. ''Mmn.. nevermind the noise, Miss. I haven't eaten in a day or two; I had to pack light, y'know?" Kicking the ground sadly, I began to rub my flat stomach, the weak sigh that followed signalling the end of my good-news-high.

''I do not wish to become a shinobi, though. My forte is bodyguarding or mercenary work, so if you feel like you need me to prove something, I'd be inclined to ask for a task."

Wiping the last of the dampness from my face, I finally shot the tall woman a serious look, the blankness of my face hopefully getting across that I wasn't joking. ''I take my work seriously, you must understand that sentiment, right?" I chimed, my hand habitually itching my scalp. ''I may be depressed, but I still have my pride. I don't wish to be assigned to petty grocery store escort missions or cat rescues, I want something I can sink my teeth into-- .. outside of my work in the dojo, of course."

[/justify][/font]

[Apple]

I hadn’t been all that prepared for his enthralled response to my acceptance of his plan, but- it would take a while to get his idea up and running as far as getting a fully functioning building would be concerned- I was unsure if he wished to redecorate but given the fact that he’d already said that he wasn’t all that rich, I figured that he wouldn’t have the funds to do so. As far as his determination went, from where I was at the moment I could tell that he’d be content in an empty, broken building as long as he had the amenities needed to teach. His new apology was placed on deaf ears as I’d already told him not to do so. My last show of forgiveness had been enough. It wasn’t as if I didn’t appease him for the sniffling he had done, but instead, I was sure that he understood my take on it. My pose still in the same authoritive position which I’d developed, I’d watch as he began to explain what he’d be teaching exactly. Defense was something which I’d have liked them to learn- And from what he was saying, he seemed to be offering completely that. On top of that could offense be built on – although a sword could easily be used to defend oneself from an attack and do considerable damage, I was sure. Briefly turning my gaze to the small collective of trees behind the haggard man as his expression seemed to perk up as he elaborated on what he’d be teaching. His passion for the subject in question was undeniably strong, and I couldn’t help but think that despite his worn, dulled appearance, he’d make for a good teacher - Or at least, for the sake of his usefulness within the village, I hoped that my deduction would prove to be correct within a few weeks.

”..I won’t doubt your abilities.
You seem quite..

..enthusiastic.
Perhaps you can pass that on to some of the people here.”

[/right]

The first shinobi war had ravaged the sense of pride in Kusagakure, and even now almost a decade later, it still stung for everyone. I’d had the liberty of growing up as a child in a village that had remained in the shadow of the world, but as I grew older and the problems the village had began to surface, I’d seen more and more people younger than myself fall prey to such things. Villages burnt and families separated, I hadn’t been the only one to suffer. I couldn’t even imagine having been wrapped in the first war if I’d have been only a child, but I had to remind myself that some people had been that unfortunate, and for that I was thankful. I was growing old now; and so was the man before me, but perhaps if he could help inspire the younger generations of the village in to becoming more than they initially thought they could be having had the village been put down so many times, it would be the dawn of something new. I wanted so badly to reconnect myself with the children of the village but I’d made myself out to be more of a monster than anything with my devious stage presence – and perhaps I was glad because of that. But Hesui- I was sure that he’d only do good for the village as a whole, or at least I had high hopes.

But what positivity was I bringing the village through allowing him a direct home here? He spoke words which seemed very enticing his form couldn’t help but remind me of days long done. Perhaps I was speaking more with my heart than with my mind but if he proved to be a disappointment to my name, then I wouldn’t be happy. ”The village has come a long way since the last two wars- But there are many people that need to be inspired. It pains me to think how many people were raised during wartime.” I shook my head. He himself didn’t seem too much of a positive person but I was sure that whatever effort he could make to bring something fine to the lives of the Kusagakure children would be worthwhile. Personally, I’d fought for several years with the first war- I’d worked in the hospital and I’d fought on the front line, but I was 20- old enough to understand life, or so I thought. What history did he have? Had he fought to help protect the smaller villages within his home country of Kaminari? He seemed worn- defeated by time itself, and that was a good sign that my guesses were true. It was often the case.

However, as promising as the man before me seemed as far as his talents lay, his proposal of a bodyguard continued to linger. Although having such people to hang about during official meetings were useful to prevent any unneeded problems from arising, at the same time I didn’t like the feeling that I was being watched. As my right hand rose from my hip, my head seemed to move in tune alongside it, whipping my hair to the side before I began to respond to his offer, combing it back along my ear to view him better.

”I’m not favourable to being guarded often.
I prefer to look after myself."

I spoke to him honestly.

.."However, if such situations arise where I may need an aide.."

..You’ll be considered.”

[/b][/color][/right]

It wasn’t often the case, but given the way that the world seemed to be going, it was better to be prepared.

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

[Heisui; Samurai For Hire.]

''Yes, Miss Kusakage. Of course."

I responded to her first observation, my head nodding out of respect for the woman. She was quite analytical, it seemed, but she must have had an extremely kind heart to give somebody new a chance like this. My care for her already extended beyond my oath; she was truly a friend to this withered, saddened man. ''The war truly was a horrible time, Miss. I can attest to that." I sighed quietly, my face sinking yet again.

''.. A lot of mistakes were made during the war, Miss. If I can make up for just one of them, then I can die happily."

Beaming a crooked smile towards her, I felt my knees grow weak yet again. Not only was I absolutely starving, but I hadn't taken a proper rest in days. ''I know this may be informal, especially coming from a stranger but.." Itching my stomach, I looked up at the girl and tried my best not to smile, the feigned sadness in my eyes hopefully chiseling a way at her will, though I wasn't so sure that it'd work as well as I'd like.

''Do you think you could spare some time to get something to eat? I haven't eaten in a while and my legs are starting to give out on me, I won't be fit to teach like this."

As soon as I blurted it all out, I felt my smile once again seep onto my features, the mischievous question hopefully not causing any hostility between us. ''And it'd mean a lot to me to be able to eat some lunch with somebody, I haven't socialized in a long, long time. At least not with somebody like you."

[/justify][/font]

[Apple]

The fact that he wasn’t someone who pertained from a shinobi village; It simply made my mind wander as to how his own home had been rendered to after the two shinobi wars which had ravaged the world. With one created by the hate of several nations out to spur each other forwards in to a hateful war, the second instead was the creation of a single man and his friends- One of which supposedly had been my own brother. Although the first was enough to destroy Kusagakure, had the village not been in its same derelict state during the second, I could only shudder to think the damage it would cause, both physically and mentally to the people who had regrouped there. Luckily enough at the current time, the situation allowed the village to grow once more before something else would begin to lurk beneath the surface. I had no inclination exactly of what it was, but the strangers at the site of the yonbi attack had been enough to place me at unease. There was no telling exactly what people ignorant to the possibilities that they held, alike Heisui before me, were thinking in regards to the world at this very time. Just what things had his own village gone through? Had they regained power after the damage dealt? As I briefly gazed at the nature surrounding us, it only struck me that I had heard rumours of Takigakure slowly rising. Had other villages followed suit to mine? I hadn’t heard of waterfall being populated and live since.. I couldn’t even remember. What chance did smaller villages like his own have in rebuilding if we’d struggled so far?

He had come from a smaller village in Kusa no Kuni, his own allied with mine. Often the two villages had collaborated to help strengthen the other, and when war dawned, he’d been called to aid Kusagakure as it too swore to protect his own. I’d often wondered what it had been like to live there.

”The war created problems for everybody.
While we may not be able to forgive ourselves for the things we’ve done..
..we can do our best to forget.”

I gave a small, abrupt smile.

From my brief moment of recollection, I soon seemed to be given a proposition- to which I was, to say the least, somewhat surprised to hear, although a small part in my mind spoke such words that I should have expected him to ask, that I was one of the most beautiful women in the shinobi world and I shouldn’t’ be surprised to see men bowing at my feet for a mere glance at my beauty. Things thoughts soon consumed my mind and I responded silently, unsure of what to say in risk of offending him. Just who does he think he is? again- I writhed beneath the voice as it sounded, my illness devouring at my mind for a moment or so- before fading again, leaving me free to respond with a clear mind. Did he really think that he could fool me with that tone? I was the queen of deceit. ”……..” I could even remember tricking a man who had in layer years become Raikage- Burabiya, Atlas. Where was he now? And a Hokage as well whom I’d acquired a world map from years before- Ryu.. something. However on the fence I felt about even going along with the plan that he seemingly had in mind, I became aware that it would be best to just go along with it. It was crawling towards mid-day and I was already prepared to have a bite to eat. I was sure that in the meantime, I could try and secrete more information from him in regards to what he wanted to do exactly, and how I could use that to my advantage. A guard he could perhaps be, but was all of his training from wartime? Or had he taught under someone himself?

”At least not with somebody like you."

I smirked- a half hearted laugh evident before my shut lips.

”I’ll accept your proposal.
On business terms.



Walk with me.”
It was less a remark than a demand.

Once he became alert to this, I’d spin on my heel with my hair flowing in a current behind me, and begin to walk out of the gardens themselves towards the center of Kusagakure. It being his duty to keep up with me, the moment that he’d catch up I’d pose him another question in regards to the dojo that he wished to open.

”Is your motive for opening a dojo simply to honour the memory of your daughter?
Or has this been.. a goal of yours regardless?”

I hadn’t meant to be too prying- I was just wondering. Having a dojo to train children was a lovely way of preserving love I was sure, but did he have an interest to open one perhaps before the war had reaped him of his family? He seemed able enough, but had he been all that well-trained before the incident? People were very.. interesting.

[/justify][/size][/font]

[Heisui; Samurai For Hire.]

''Aye."

I responded lowly, my hands resting carefully on the sheathes beside my hip, the realization that she thought I was asking her out on a date making me chuckle quietly. ''You're not that much of a charmer, Heisui." I blurted out into a fit of laughter before composing myself, my frame eagerly following behind her while my eyes tried their best to avert themselves away from her. I wasn't attracted to her, but if what I assumed was true, she was probably used to men leering at her.

''It's all so overwhelming here, isn't it? I can't believe that I was let in, let alone given permission to open a dojo. Everything is looking up."

I cooed happily, the sight of the sky enough to bring a kind smile to my features, though I made sure not to drift off, lest she ask me a question. And yet, like clockwork, she continued to ask me something else, though what she had mused was deeply personal. She wanted to know about my intentions, or rather, why I wanted my dojo in the first place? Regardless of the prying nature of the comment, I would try my best to answer her. She deserved that much.

''It's a mix of both, Miss. The.. loss of my daughter was the driving force behind it, but in the end, I just want to be able to do something for others, as well as get my mind off of what had happened."

Turning my head to the side, I felt an uneasy wave of emotion course through my body. I was on the brink of tears again, but this time I held it back, my forearm wiping my eyes in case any lingering tears escaped my eyes. ''When I met my wife and first laid eyes on my daughter.. I changed. I used to be a mercenary, you see. And while it was all very profitable, it just wasn't a fulfilling life; living payment to payment and never having a place to call home is tough, but I managed." I admitted shyly, the constant tugging and resheathing of my blades acting as a welcome distraction from my memories.

''I was incredibly gifted, Miss Kusakage, and I still am. I am loyal to you and more than capable of teaching the children of your village. Is that not all that matters here?"

[/justify][/font]

[Apple]

''It's all so overwhelming here, isn't it? I can't believe that I was let in, let alone given permission to open a dojo. Everything is looking up."

”Feel fortunate that you met me on this day.
I may not have been so considerate tomorrow- next week- next month. ..Who knows.”

I spoke with a subtle smirk behind my words. I was more aware of my changes in mood than anyone, and given my current nature, his acceptance in to the village and the approval of his ideas had been aided by my own memories which grasped to cling on to anything which loosely resembled it. But perhaps what touched me most was his story. I’d never thought of myself as being so weak but even I felt for the man before me. I was sure that I, alike him, wasn’t alone. But I daren’t expose such concepts. Of course, I felt good for doing what I’d done for the man, but at the same moment, should my mind take a sharp change and deteriorate once more, what would stop me from breaking his heart and throwing him away from the village to pick up his own life again? So different to the woman who had in earlier days gladly tore people in half for the sake of my own survival, I now found it hard to simply disappoint. I’d just have to try and keep myself as composed as I could. As I walked, I noticed that I was planning ahead too much. But- When you’ve lived through two wars, I guessed that even being able to still have the nerve to look towards the future was a good sign. Being the Kusakage, it was my job to do so to secure the village.

From what voice had seeped from my mouth, I now found myself at loss of words as he answered my question. I wasn’t too sure what exactly brought the inquiry to my mouth but perhaps it was simply the need to know that others had suffered alike I had, in too similar a way. But it didn’t make us similar. Heisui and I couldn’t be more different. As I walked aside him, my hips swaying from side to side as I moved, I listened in carefully, his words wrought with clear emotion. I pitied him, but at the same time, I had no right to. ”..I see.” I murmured, my breath lingering on the crisp morning air smelling very much of peppermint. Through my own doing what nauseating throughts from the first shinobi war and the blood- All of the blood returned back to me like an unwelcome kick to the face. My own blood, and the blood of those who I should have been more careful to save. I’d been too reckless for my own good, and I paid for it.

It had all been my fault.
I mourned him, I mourned them both.

”..I’m sure she’d be proud of you for doing this.”

I spoke; I didn’t want to make myself seem too intrusive, but was honest, at least.

As I moved onwards with the aging samurai pacing alongside me, I’d turn my raise my head to see the street life unfold before our very eyes. Please leaving from houses, rushing from door to door, with others simply making their way downtown, walking fast and homebound. Merely listening to his experiences and flickering back to my own had began wipe away my appetite, but as I’d agreed, I couldn’t back down now. ”I was simply wondering. I’d always wanted to become the Kusakage since I’d seen my own leader display such ignorance towards his own people.” a pause, as I prepared for the second part of my chosen words. ”..And, of course to protect those who I cared most for. To make the place not simply safe for my own family, but for each and every one. Back then of course; I didn’t think it would become possible given the outcome of the first shinobi war on our village.” As he seemed perhaps not irritated but, perhaps effected by what I'd asked him, I chose to reveal my own intention for becoming the leader of the village, or at least, what I could remember thinking all those years ago back in my youth where family was very much my main concern. I had no choice back then.

But I had been happy.

Happy for what was to come, even in the harshest of circumstances.
..Before reality came crashing down and I lost everything.

[/justify][/size][/font]

[Heisui; Samurai For Hire.]

”..I’m sure she’d be proud of you for doing this.”

I couldn't help but smile at what she said, the kindness of this woman was amazing. I had known nothing of her temperament, or her patience for strangers, but I had assumed she'd at least be a little bit more.. unforgiving? Hopefully this was par-for-the-course behavior in Kusagakure, it'd certainly make teaching the children far easier for me.

”I was simply wondering. I’d always wanted to become the Kusakage since I’d seen my own leader display such ignorance towards his own people.”

I shook my head at what she said, the heaving sigh that followed voicing my displeasure at the mental image, though it was not an unfamiliar tale. ''The hearts of men are troubling things, Miss." I spoke knowingly, my hands moving the hair from my scrunched up face so I could more clearly observe the crowd before us. The populace seemed.. normal, tanned skin and pretty faces generally making up the crowd, but the overall vibe was what set it apart for me.

''Everybody seems so relieved here."

I thought as I continued to push past people, my legs habitually leading me towards the woman beside me; an unconscious effort to make sure she wouldn't be left alone. But as I began to plan out our course and how to protect her, I realized I had forgotten an especially important factor. She was a shinobi, of course, but she was also the leader of an entire village of them. If she was to reach such a level of power, surely she must have had something to defend herself with?

''Miss Blanche, how is it that you reached such a position? Didja have to go through a lot of politics, or was it a.. uh, trial of strength type deal?"

Tilting my head to the side as I asked, I prayed silently that she wouldn't take offense to my question, or assumed that I was being sexist in anyway. I had known many capable women, but I hadn't seen one in power for a long, long time, though I wasn't exactly sure if that came from a low opinion of female shinobi or just a severe lack of talent.

''Hopefully the latter."

[/justify][/font]

[Apple]

As the both of us walked, I turned my head to the side somewhat to pay a look at him, the faults in his clothing becoming more and more evident- stains, cuts and signs of wear seemed obvious in the material. I was aware that he was homeless, but had he lost all pride after losing his family? I’d bathed myself lavishly in fine clothing and torn through people’s skin to get the money that I needed to justify what had happened, and even then it hadn’t been enough to fill the monstrous gap that had manifested. Even now, when I bore the power to bring those people back from the afterlife, I couldn’t bring myself to use it. Was it really worth that much? They would barely be human, and I had to remind myself that it simply wasn’t worth it. Gazing back at the street ahead of me, it wouldn’t be long until we reached my destination of choice for food. His comment was taken solemnly as I nodded, perhaps almost too hypocritically. Silence overcame the both of us again as the sound of the busying street life became to flood my ears. Voices, movements and life came over the streets of Kusagakure. Walking past one of the several market areas, it was quite hard to escape from the noise.

''Miss Blanche, how is it that you reached such a position? Didja have to go through a lot of politics, or was it a.. uh, trial of strength type deal?"

The question was, to say the least, unexpected.
But I’d been asked it several times before.



”I arrived at Kusagakure at an opportune time.
I was instated as leader soon thereafter.”

It couldn’t have been further from the truth, but it was what I told everyone, even in its vagueness.
But in the end.. why had they chosen me to lead?

I was headstrong about protecting my village, that was for sure, even before the two red-haired brothers had met me. But had I been the only capable shinobi to lead the village at the current time? Or had they believed that I was the one who would restore Kusagakure to its former glory, and then ascend it even more in to the heavens? I couldn’t’ be sure, and at the same time I didn’t want to find out from them. I had no intention of seeing them ever again. They troubled me enough already. ”Had your intention been to settle down in this village, or had you been declined from others? What drew you here?” again- a bold series of questions, but he had to understand that I was leaving a complete stranger start what could potentially be a new life within my village. And- it was too, partially out of innocent interest. Was Kusagakure the first hidden village he’d asked? Or had he travelled to others and been declined before? I was interested in finding out. As the both of us walked through the crowd of people, my statuesque height permitted me to gaze over the heads of others, as they in turn gazed at my own in undoutful awe. Children ceased to run to grasp a glimpse of my angelic appearance, and market vedors paused for perhaps but a moment before returning to their work. But- who was the person to my side? It was something I figured that they were wondering. But- our forms would soon disappear somewhat from the public eye as I made my own way through the doorway of a café. It wasn’t anything lavish, but it would do.

Making my way over to an empty table, I sat down, indicating for Heisui to do the same as I all too casually rose a menu from the table as I studied the various options available.

[/justify][/size][/font]