Bio Terror Nightmare [Mission]

[Jenosaido Bruinetto]

Not too long ago it seemed that Bruinetto had merely been following the orders of his superiors when it came to the missions he was being assigned. Going through the motions just so that in the end he could make a meager paycheck so he could continue on funding his research. For once however the scenario seemed different when it came to the mission at hand. If there was one thing that to him which was to be abhorred they were scientific experiments which included the use of unwilling subjects. Testing your perverted methods and theories on individuals who never consented to anything. It was even more heinous considering that those who fell prey to this experimentation lost their lives in the process. Such a thing almost made him sick as a righteous anger swelled up inside of him. These emotions were not something he was going to let cloud his thoughts through the course of the mission. Having taken the initiative here to do something and having to guide the lives of others here he could not afford to be reckless. For this mission he had been paired up with three other shinobi. One of them he had already met, Ryuu Tama. The other two he did not have the pleasure of meeting prior to meeting at the rendezvous point back in the village. Those two being Hasu Hikuidori and Kuroda Uri. Prior to the journey here there was only one interaction of note in Bruinetto's mind.

-----
Back at Sunagakure

Waiting patiently at the rendezvous point for the mission Bruinetto hoped that the team would come together in a timely fashion. Bruinetto when feeling closely connected to a situation, very much like he does in this situation was always quite punctual. After meeting up and going through informal introductions with his team mates before setting out he had one question to ask in particular. “I did not gain access to your profiles before being assigned with your three. I think it would be imperative for us to know about each others skills. So that we could best utilize this for the success of the mission. For myself, I excel in the use of genjutsu and have a mastery of projectile based taijutsu. I tend to be a long ranged fighter.” Whatever information they would give him as an answer to the question it was going to be taken into account for later on. If he knew what kind of tools they had at their disposal better strategies and plans could be implemented.

----

Returning to Soon's Haven

“I was never quite familiar with some of the routes that lead outside of the village. I had figured for the most part you could only access to the village through the gates. That seems to be kind of a security flaw if you can enter the village through these passages. I understand it is a measure to allow trading into our village considering it's location though.” With this information he had acquired as of recently, he began to realize how the Soeki clan was capable of getting in and out of the village so that they may perform their experiments within the village walls. It gave them the opportunity to be in close proximity to other shinobi so they may gather information on their research along with give them a wealth of subjects for their experiments. It made even more sense that with the information he gathered prior upon a base of operations was located just north of the Soon's Haven. It was well outside the range of the diamond maelstrom along with something potentially more sinister. The ultimate end of creating these kinjutsu were still unknown. If they were planning on releasing bio weapons within Sunagakure they could be using these merchant passages as a means for slipping past security and readying some sort of attack. Perhaps he should speak to somebody about this potential security flaw after the mission was complete. The ANBU Sennin may be the best person to bring up this information to.

[MFT]
WC:672

 

[Enatsu]

Recap: Maw of Barnyx

A porcelain like man approached the gates in all his glory. He wore black and gold encrusted robes with a gold headpiece. A group was already gathered and a man who seemed young was leading the group. He smiled oddly, adding his presence to the group. He would nod at each member and begin to pull out a scroll while everyone else did what they would. Bruinetto the leader of this mission would begin to speak addressing some form of introduction. Hiku silently listened as he spoke of his skills and talents. As Bruinetto would finish his request of the team Hiku would walk closer towards the gates as a man garbed in a tan cloak with a tall frame and red hair approached. Hiku would extend his hand to the man and motion for him to follow. As he would regroup he would begin to speak hoping not to cut anyone off. "Apologies for walking away, I have here in my hand my resignation but I had signed up for this mission a while ago. While waiting for the final clearances I well how do I put it, "broke" myself. So while I go under repairs I hadn't realized this day came upon me so fast. Since it was too late I personally scouted out the Wind Country deserts for the last three days to find a merc worthy of Suna shinobi caliber. This is Ikoji Koga, (turns to Koga) tell them your strengths kid, and follow the leader. Don't break his rules and you'll be paid handsomely. (Turns back to Bruinetto). He's all yours, I won't be out of distance if he does anything to endanger you all don't hesitate to execute him." Hiku would turn and leave waving to the group as he went to turn in his resignation.

Koga stared at each member of the group silently before speaking. "I'm a hand to hand combat fighter. I'm agile, flexible and a good scout. I'm a decent healer as well." Koga would stop speaking and continue to look at the group. He did not want to get on their bad side as the puppet man had just left him here after running his mouth. It was bad enough that Koga wasn't officially apart of Sunagkure, but it was worse their own shinobi were already trying to use him. If this wasn't sanctioned who knew what kind of trouble could come. However that wasn't really Koga's problem, it was the puppet man's.

*********************************************************

Soon's Haven


“I was never quite familiar with some of the routes that lead outside of the village. I had figured for the most part you could only access to the village through the gates. That seems to be kind of a security flaw if you can enter the village through these passages. I understand it is a measure to allow trading into our village considering it's location though.”

The leader of the mission spoke surprised that these tunnels existed so close to the village. Koga knew nothing of Sunagakure yet expect that they were the Wind Country's strongest shinobi force. A collection of numerous clans and villagers all dedicated to military and securing themselves a haven to be normal. Koga could understand why Kenji wanted the Ikoji to move into Sunagakure so badly. It was one of the few places the clan could find safety in the desert. He would prove to the Sunan shinobi that the Ikoji were worth having.

"You haven't been through these passages before? Does that mean there could be booby trapped?" Koga would immediately go silent letting the leader digest what he was suggesting. It was very possible there could be traps they would run into. Some of those traps could be from other shinobi, bent raiders. or even unknown creatures. In the northern sands the Ikoji spent time hunting the creatures being led into various traps via the environment. The creatures knew how to lure their hunters into these traps making them the real predators. However the Ikoji's strength and nimbleness were perfect for this kind of work.

There was another question Koga wanted to address before continuing with the group to ensure he didn't endanger them. "The Puppet man, Hikuidori? He said that this was a hunt for something. The guy really didn't brief me before hiring. Could you brief me on the mission, I don't want to mess up anything." Once more silence would fall around Koga as he waited for any responses from the group members.

[MFT]

 

[Toraono Michino]

“I’ve never been too worried about them. I mean, if something ever does try to attack our village then they have to deal with, well, the Sunagakure army. That’s nothing to sneeze at you know,<i></i>” Tama said in a relaxed voice as he seemed happy just to be out of the cave.

The wind danced around the group as they made their passage towards Soon’s Haven so that they could get this mission underway. The scientist was really lost in his own thoughts as they traveled onwards. The smell of fresh air and heat from an actual sun brought about a feel of euphoria for a man who was once a child of the surface before being forced down into the cave for years.

Oh yeah, he’d said he’d introduce himself around now.

“I apologize for not introducing myself right away. I have a tendency to want to get things underway as soon as possible, but while we’re walking I think now would be the best time to get to know one another – its called being productive!<i></i>
“My name is Ryuu Tama. I’m a Chakra Specialist which means basically what it sounds like – I’m really good with anything involving chakra. Ninjutsu craft is what I’m best at offensive wise but I’d say my specialty is support with barriers and an incredible healing ability. I’m also a hell of a tactician as well as figuring out how to counter an opponent’s ninjutsu. Like I said, Chakra Specialist.<i></i>”

He remembered what the others and what they had said about themselves even though it was kinda hit and miss in his memory. He really didn’t care, he was just happy to be outside again.
However a valid point was raised as the mission wasn’t really properly explained. All he knew was that there was a bad-guy who had some super deadly jutsu developed that could spell disaster for a lot of things. The nature of the jutsu or the guy himself wasn’t really disclosed.

 

[Uri]

The journey through the tunnels had been uneventful, as was expected given the nature of the tunnel and their mission. While ninja were masters of disguise, when they had a purpose and they were leaving their village it was like watching death in personified form walk by. Uri kept mostly to himself, chewing on a piece of sugar cane to keep his focus ahead of himself. While Uri was usually a calm, collected individual that had no problem smiling at even the worst of things, anxiety tended to build on him when he was put in situations like this one. There was a lot riding on this mission, a risk to the people of Wind Country.

~||~ In Sunagakure ~||~

The meeting had been brief, and while they hadn't been formally introduced, Uri had made a point of reading over past report submissions on the ninja in question; enough to learn at least how they made decisions. As they went down the line, Uri eying the mercenary amongst them, he listened and took note of the skills within the group. For the most part they were rather well-balanced out. The single component missing from the team was raw power and luckily that was Uri's specialty: Complete and utter destruction. Waiting to be last, he nodded as his turn came upon him, "Kuroda Uri, Chuunin. I'm capable of just about everything, but I'm a ninjutsu expert when it comes down to it,"<i></i> He slide off a glove and in a brief moment created a handful of small black spheres. A slight flick of his wrist and he popped them into the air. Tiny explosions would pop above the group as he snapped his fingers once, "And I am your demolitions expert. If something needs to be completely and utterly reduced to molecules, I'm your guy. I'm also a regular to Soon's, so I can play tour guide as well."<i></i>

Slipping the glove back on, he gestured down the length of the tunnel, sliding the goggles resting atop his head down onto his eyes, "Now gentleman, shall we?"<i></i>

~||~ Soon's Haven ~||~

Uri kept on walking the whole time, keeping pace with their leader. As the conversation on the tunnels popped up, he imagined all the numerous people coming in and out of the tunnels on a daily basis, "Trust me, as someone who has used these tunnels a lot, they're monitored plenty. They just don't have a reason to stop a shinobi team cleared for exit. And if someone can sneak in through here, they're just as likely to do so at the gates,"<i></i> He paused for a moment, remembering how little use the gates actually got, "If they survived the Maelstrom anyway."<i></i>

Then it was a sudden realization that no one knew what they were going to Soon's to do. Not everyone had the time or ability -in case of the odd mercenary-for-hire- to follow up on their assignment. Uri had spent plenty of time reading reports submitted by their leader on the goings on and had been told specifically that this mission was of utmost importance; all the more reason to be extra prepared. As they moved along, look over to Bruinetto, "We're looking at biological weapon testing of some kind, right? Kidnapping and other unsavory things too."<i></i>

[mft]

 

[Jenosaido Bruinetto]

The team they had here seemed to be a relatively interesting bunch when considering their overall skills. Only one of them excelling at close ranged tactics at first seemed to be lacking however considering the amount of them who had some specializations in the mid and long ranges covering their comrade should not be any trouble in the long run. Having access to healing techniques as well would also be suitable if their man on the front line were to get hurt he could easily fall back for healing while being in excellent cover. Having a saboteur on the team would also benefit in the end for when they need to destroy the facility they are heading out to find. They would have to be careful with that in the end. There was no telling what kind of vile creations lurked within the complex and they certainly did not want any of it flowing downwind and infecting Soon's Haven. If Bruinetto could have his ways he would keep civilian casualties at zero.

"As Uri-kun mentioned, we are dealing with what could be a hideout which is harboring bio-weapons. Over the course of time with my past few missions I have stumbled upon the use of medical facilities in Sunagakure as a means to test out kinjutsu. These kinjutsu involved the creation of bacterial and virus based life forms. Most of those who were infected by these techniques at first only survived a few weeks after being infected but near the end of the research the time was shortened to merely a few days. Currently, what ambitions this group has is unknown. They simply could be looking to make money by selling their kinjutsu and having used Sunagakure for its resources when they were developing these techniques. There is the chance of it being much more volatile than that, and the security of the village could be in danger. If they have a vendetta against the village this could very well be used against us and quite easily. All it would take is an easily spread virus being subjected onto trade caravans that enter the village. No actual shinobi would even have to breach the gates if that were the case." Bruinetto would pause for a moment after this ranting to let the gist of this information be proceeded by his traveling companions as he had much more to tell.

"I do believe there could be a plot against Sunagakure though. A man I encountered during my travels had a very specific set of skills. He utilized what I knew to be fire jutsu, but had been converted into a poison based jutsu. Looking into the archives I found mention in the history books of one such clan capable of doing so. They were known as the Soeki clan, who harbored a very dangerous poison kekkei genkei. It had been said the clan had been wiped out during the plague war. I speculate that considering the nature of Barnyx being a source of the plague may have been brought accusations onto the clan considering the nature of their techniques. They were also the only group at the time that suffered no casualties from the plague. I would think falsely being accused of betraying your people and then having a near genocide brought onto your people would be more than enough to hold a grudge." This was all just theory at the moment but figuring out a motive for their opponents and trying to understand them was key to finding a way to eventually find and defeat them.

MFT
WC: 595

 

[Enatsu]

It seemed as if they already had a medic and one with better control than Koga. The large mercenary watched as the other displayed small explosions in the air showing their skills off. Koga began to observe the area around them darting his sky blue eyes back and forth. He was looking for cracks or exposure of any kind. It would be a shame if the tunnel was fragile. However it seemed as though the small explosions didn't affect anything or so it seemed. Hmm explosions made from black balls... Was it chakra or bombs?, said to himself in his mind. He figured it'd be good to take note of the talents, from the people around him. The other guy seemed to keep his talents to less display but from what he could tell he was in a team of full of ranged tacticians.

With my speed I can cover the distance. If anything arises I'll be ready to utilize my agility to get in on the enemies. His mind drifted back from the thoughts of battle. Koga had no input on what he was debriefed on. There wasn't much that could be said by the lone merc. From what it seemed like, the group was going to have to come up with a plan to track down these bio weapons and contain them. In that aspect he could not help unless his sound jutsu could disrupt it from the inside. Even then he wasn't sure what nature these bio weapons were. Did they happen to be machines, or were they jutsu? At the sound of kinjutsu, Koga's body slightly tensed. He knew the term and his trump card well some could consider it a forbidden technique. Yuko considered it one herself, but Koga just saw it as an extension of one willpower. You needed it to attain the Inner Gates. However Koga would not reveal his ability to control the inner gates unless he needed to unleash all of those powers at once. Using them at more paced rates and limiting yourself to one or two, the body wouldn't get so strained, and since discovering the techniques Koga did nothing but train to control them. He could make use of single gates to help these Sunan nin during their mission it all depended on the situation.

The final train of thought rested on Bruinetto's end of the briefing. Apparently this Sokei Clan were instantly assumed to be the criminals of the Plague Wars and brought to near extinction. The Ikoji clan caused the genocide of another clan. It was long ago but still it happened and it should not have happened. Aika did what she did to end the bloodshed between the Ikoji and the Ogawa. Peace wasn't an option and it led to the end of another group of people. "Blood for blood never fixes situations. They usually only tend to get worse until one side is completely obliterated. This can be a sad world.." He would fall silent still reflecting on the current situation and what his clan did in the past. Koga would silently begin to pray for the Sokei clan hoping their spirits found some sort of peace. Spirits of the Sokei Clan, I hope you find serenity in the afterlife. May the winds guide you to the river of life.

[MFT]

 

[Toraono Michino]

Introduction time was apparently properly viewed as he did it. The rest of the gang reviled themselves as mostly ranged attackers as he was. There was one melee fighter in the group that boasted healing techniques which kept them from being overbalanced. Also an explosive user was bound to come in handy; explosions were never a bad thing! Anyone who studied advanced science for more than a week would understand the progress made with explosions.

The blond scientist listened to everything his friend had to say. The gears in his mind instantly began to turn as the old focus of doing something important geared his genius onto a track. The mention of a disease creating kinjutsu was an interesting concept to take upon one’s body. It would absolutely make them immune to almost every known poisonous substance; even newly crafted poisons would be hard pressed to slow that person down. Tama raised a hand up to his chin to contemplate.

“Interesting. It’s too bad this is a kinjutsu technique instead of a something that’s passed through the blood. I have quite a unique ability to draw on the chakra of another person and understand their abilities for a short time but, the techniques that are considered “forbidden” are deep level body altering justu. If he is using a bloodline heritage technique I might still be able to understand a small level of his ability; otherwise I would have to perform a full chakra coil surgery in order to completely understand the technique. Still, if the technique is more chakra based than actual biological, I should be able to break down the alien chakra in the body and cure us.
“Still what concerns me is that if what your saying is true, we won’t be just facing up against a user of this ability but a warehouse full of weapons that can replicate these dangerous array of maladies. Biological illnesses are harder to break down. Though I am still confident I could still come up with a cure it could take precious few days we won’t have. Would you know of any way for us to set up a defense against the weapons before we try to invade the compound?<i></i>”

His boots continued to walk along the hard beaten path that lead out to Soon. This was some troubling information that was being given to the group as well. They group wasn’t just out to destroy a bioweapon lab just to defend Soon it was to also stop hidden attacks on Sunagakure. The idea that these monstrosities had been taking place over the village without his knowledge was truly a sickening thought. Tama had been far too distracted by the return of his friend to the village and had thoroughly neglected a lot of his duties. This was something he was going to start correcting starting with this mission.

 

[Uri]

There was a lot of talk about the mission, details that didn't hurt to know, but the one thing that still hadn't been announced to them by their leader was the precise objective. In the back of Uri's mind, he knew that there was no room for mercy or polite treaties to be negotiated. Unfortunately, the cycle of life must always end in death. Some acted as agents to push the deadline up for others. For those who sought out the suffering and destruction of innocent people, they were pushed to the front of the priorities list. The collective mind of the group was inventive, and powerful, but some of their youthful arrogance had shown through. Tama might have been a genius at chakra manipulation, but taking on characteristics of something that was designed to inflict rapid death wasn't wise. More importantly, what if it was intended to lay dormant after an attack and then reappear, making Suna's own shinobi the ones who bring the sickness into its borders. There wasn't room for error and this wasn't the time to be nice, and Uri loved to be nice!

Uri rolled a ball of clay between his hands, manipulating its shape as he listened. When Tama finished his piece, he asked the question they all needed answered, "So what is it we're being sent out here to do? This is a serious threat to all of Wind Country, trying to take a sample to study for cures and potential weaponizing later isn't an option; there's precedent set for that."<i></i> Still walking, still keeping pace with everyone, he held up the clay blob and revealed it to be in the shape of a life-like bird, "And because of how dangerous this is to Sand, to Wind, to Soon's, to us, I feel there's only one real option we have."<i></i> The small bird took flight from his hand and using that same hand, he curled his fingers in and then spread them out. The bird exploded into glittering sparkles; a novel firework, "Boom. Leave nothing and no one. Reduce them to less then dust. To nothing."<i></i>

Suddenly, Uri smacked his lips and noticed exactly how much of a bad taste that left on his tongue. Reaching into his satchel, he rummaged around for a moment and produced a small carton. Pulling out one of the sticks, he stuck it between his lips and felt a lot better after chewing on the end. Pocky was a great sweet to gnaw on when travel. Sugar did well to help keep Uri focused. He offered the box to the others, in case someone else wanted a stick, "Strawberry. Help yerselves."<i></i>

 

[Jenosaido Bruinetto]

"I would have to agree with Uri-kun on the idea of taking out all we can with the facility. Honestly, this type of kinjutsu is brilliant but at the same time terrifying. It would be one of the greatest stealth weapons you could imagine. Now, I am sure there may be some use for the village for such a valueable weapon I would rather not see that happen. This type of technique would be extremely dangerous if proper adjustments to the technique were made. There is a reason why adjustments would need to be made. I will tell you all that I know of these jutsu thus far..."

Closing his eyes for but a moment he would begin to recall his memories. Rough drafts and diary entries he recovered at the hospital where he first discovered the experimentations which fostered the creation of the kinjutsu. "From what I understand the technique may only be capable of being performed by members of the Soeki clan. At least in the form I read from with their notes. It stems from their natural ability to create poisons. The chemistry that is performed with their chakra nearly instaneously is taken a step further where they have managed to create a life form. Now, creating a "living" creature out of chakra is not unheard of however generally they are not self sustaining and usually rely on the user. However, since these creatures are so basic they can survive without the presence of the host for extended periods of time. Once infection begins it will start to take chakra from the infected in order to further amplify itself. It make me wonder how potent it can become once a person with a much higher reserve of chakra becomes infected. That could even intensify the rate of infection or the side effects."

Giving pause for a moment he had not considered this prior. Most of the original tests done on others were generally on civilians with lower chakra reserves. It is possible that it wasn't the technique being perfected which increased the speed of the infection but the chakra of who was infected. "Doing some research, there are some basic ways that we can protect ourselves from an infection. For one, gas masks would be appropriate attire along with hazmat suits. I did not ask any of you to bring such things because I designed my own. These hazmat suits were designed to not hinder movements. One Soeki member fought told me how they can spread the infections through the blood as well. So for the material of these suits they will are resistant to tearing and would serve some addiction protection against an opponent that tries to draw blood."

Bruinetto has taken many precautions with the level of danger that was a head of them. The group while at first seemingly meandering through the Soon's Haven would find themselves on the outskirts preparing to venture out. The sun was setting off in the distance as the sky was painted a myriad of colors. Judging by the estimated travel time they would be capable of reaching this complex during the dead of night. The cover would be their ally and allow their presence to go unnoted. If they could manage to infiltrate without being spotted that would be a more ideal situation. "Are any of you capable of sensing chakra? I have not trained myself in such an art, nor am I naturally gifted at it. I am only capable of seeing chakra and its color when I have my Sharingan activated. I have no exact idea of what the location looks like, just a general idea of where it is. If any of you can sense chakra, it would make finding it a much easier task."

[MFT]
WC: 630

OOC: My normal computer is having troubles atm. So I am using a family members laptop for this post. So my posting may be a little sporadic but I intend to keep this mission trucking along!

 

[Enatsu]

The other spoke their words one intriguing Koga more than the other. The idea of complete annihilation was a delicate case in Koga's mind. He wondered if there could be any form of negotiation made with the Sokei clan. Could these Suna ninja take care of what had to be done or were they just allowing more time for others to lose their lives. He would follow his job especially with the people his clan wanted to ally themselves with. His head was on the line too. As the leader of the mission began to speak Koga would begin wrapping a pale blue cloth around his hands. This cloth was littered with writing in the form of prayers and good will. Stories from his mother's collection all scribed onto it, anything of relevance was. As he wrapped his hands in this cloth he would listen to Bruinetto's words and information.

It seems as if they are ready to go through with it. As long as they can live with the choice so be it. We're all monsters anyway. Koga would begin to slightly stretch his body while mentally preparing himself for their task ahead. It seemed as Bruinetto had things figured out when it came to fighting the clan. Koga had a load of thoughts running through his mind but most of them were about their stance on the operation. "So how do we kill them? Do we lure them from their base? Pick them off one by one? Or storm the building? However before he could find a way to ask the questions Bruinetto began to ask about anyone who were sensors. Koga began to casually scratch his head wondering if what he was could be considered a "sensor". He wasn't going to exactly reveal the Inner Gates but they were obviously going to be his major tools in this confrontation. He also wasn't sure if it could actually help them sense, but he could use them to enhance his current abilities.

"Well I'm not a sensor, but I could scout the area for you. I'll move fast enough to where I shouldn't be caught even if I'm seen but I can't promise not being detected." He would fall silent realizing that if none of them were sensors the group would run into their first run of trouble. He could only offer up so much, but he'd offer up whatever could help the team's current situation.

 

[Toraono Michino]

Before too long the group arrived in the coastal trading village of Soon. Tama breathed in deep to take in the beautiful salty air mixed with the desert’s natural elements. The scents escalated his mood even further than it had already been. They gave him new inspiration to explore parts of his genius he had not tried before, to built up and tear down new creations.

He shook his head trying to reclaim a focus on the task at hand.

“I might be able to help with that actually,<i></i>” the scientist spoke up as the fellow ninja spoke up about sensing chakra, “I actually managed to create a dojutsu of my own that picks up on nature chakra which allows me to use certain skills easier during battle, but, if I borrow your sharingan for a few seconds and combine it with my technique I should be able to switch my vision from nature to normal chakra.<i></i>”

Energy began to collect around Tama’s eyes before forming into crystal scales. These scales were pure nature energy that he had figured out how to capture and use by constantly releasing a small part of his own chakra to cover the surface of his flesh. Via his ability to absorb techniques into his own the scientist is able to draw on the natural energy of the land to fuel his abilities.
The dojutsu is one of them.
Combined with the sharper vision he is granted by flowing chakra into his eyes the irises would transform in shape. Quite normally when he was in combat the pupils would be reptilian slit and instead of blue/green irises they would both hold a shade of green. During the time when nature energy is being slowly combined with the chakra in his eyes the pupils actually turn sideways before two hooks going in opposite direction form on either end of the pupils. Through this he is able to assert where the strongest focal points of nature chakra are to draw energy from as well as see shifts from normal chakra concerning genjutsu when focused on a person.

However this didn’t allow him to sense any form of chakra, just what was living and what was not within his short field of vision…but combined with the powers of the Uchiha, he might be able to shift his vision to detect chakra as well.
Without warning Tama reached up and tapped Bruinetto’s neck to draw out a little of his chakra and copy it inside of his body to create the abilities of the Uchiha inside of him. Once he had enough copied chakra built up he sent it towards his dojutsu to combine them.

And immediately dropped to the ground like someone punched him in the face.

“AAAAAAHHHH….holy crap my eyes…ow…pretty sure I burned something…mm…<i></i>” he said as his hands covered his eyes in obvious pain, “Okay, that didn’t work, moving on…owww…<i></i>”

 

[Jenosaido Bruinetto]

OOC: Skipping Uri this round to keep the mission going along. If he does not post for for an additional round later on I will have a little vote between the remaining members on the mission whether to drop him out or not. I'd rather not do that if I can avoid it.. onto the posting!]

"Scouting is a good alternative to sensing, however if they have sensor ninja of their own they would know of our presence regardless. That is just another variable in the equation that we are going to have to deal with when the time comes." There were many unknowns in this scenario but gathering any sort of information before heading into the situation would be vital. After listening to Koga's input on what he could offer it seemed that Tama had a spark of "brilliance" as he reached out and made contact with him. A strange feeling crept over him as he could feel a very miniscule amount of his chakra being siphoned out. At this point, Bruinetto wasn't actually sure whether Tama really was capable of doing as he said or if he was trying to gather more input for his research. In previous times where they have met he spoke of his desire to acquire a Sharingan. Whatever he was attempting to do ended up backfiring, certainly mixing two very different doujutsu would be incredibly difficulty. Even more so than that even if you could create a perfect hybrid how well would ones brain deal with the potential sensory overload? Perhaps that was what ended up doing more harm to Tama then he would realize. "Seems like that avenue is a dud.."

With a brief pause he would go on with a different slew of ideas. "Then we can go with a simpler option. I am sure all of us are capable of at least one type of clone or creation class jutsu. If we pay attention to some of the local fauna, or either of you have more knowledge of them than I we can simply transform them to take on their properties. The smaller the creature and the more likely it is to inhabit this area the better. Having them do some recon for us will allow us to keep a safe distance. Depending on what we find out, we can adjust our tactics from there." This meticulous information gathering may not even be needed, however Bruinetto would rather gather as much information as possible before making a move. That was in his nature as a scientific mind to thoroughly observe the subject at hand before coming to a conclusion. His initial hypothesis on what they may encounter was the worst case scenario; That the hide out was heavily guarded with a powerful and elite force. He would be pessimistic enough to weigh out he worst possible scenario instead of having the mind set that they would face very little opposition. Their opposition would have some inkling that their operations have at least been scouted out, however they may not feel they are in such danger to try and heavily stack the deck in their favor.

The group had been traveling for nearly a half an hour and the Soon's Haven was no longer a spec in the distance at the pace they made through this wasteland. Up ahead they were heading towards a canyon as they would seen reach the end of the high ground and being capable of surveying the dip in the landscape. All the while they traveled Bruinetto was paying mind to his surroundings and was slowly starting to catch glimmers of markings of those who left trails during their travels. Whatever trails that were present seemed to gradually dissipate as they reached the edge leading down to the canyon. The sounds of water flowing and echoing off the canyon walls revealed a crystal blue stream. If Bruinetto had to guess this water source could very well lead back to the Soon's Haven whether it be directly or through wells used to draw water into the town. "I think we might be getting close gentlemen. We should keep our guard up from here on out.."

Little did Bruinetto know that off in the distance what looked like merely large weather worn stone towers were not as natural as they appeared. They acted as a surveillance post watching all those who visited the canyon. A cloaked figure utilize a special pair of binoculars that have been augmented with increased telescopic vision would see the three who had just arrived. Reaching for his headset he opened up the line for communication. "I have a group of unknowns at the edge of the canyon. They are wearing traveling garb, nothing that labels them as a threat directly. I'll report again if I see them drawing closer." With no response back the scout sighed after not receiving any sort of recognition for his diligence. It was something that he should have been use to by now. Not long after he made this call the rock floor at the center of the canyon would open allowing for a small squad of scouts to emerge. Jumping up to to the high ground they would begin to make their way through the canyon.

[MFT]
WC: 820

 

[Enatsu]

As they moved forward the odd medical ninja Tama began to express the ability to help with the sensor situation. He offered a weird exchange with the intent to "borrow" Bruinetto's Sharingan. If you were going to be involved in the Ninja world then you had to know the Uchiha clan and their prowess spawned from the gifted doujutsu was invaluable. Koga's clan genes that were passed down from the Kaguya never took effect in him. He wondered what it would be like, being a bone warrior rather than a spiritual healer. He brushed this thought off as he backed away slightly from Tama as he tried to obtain the Sharingan. It ended in failure or so he claimed. For all they knew he just acquired the Sharingan but hid it. Even though they were a team for the moment he still didn't necessarily trust any of them. The crimson haired mercenary's hand began to glow with light as he prepared a medical technique to assist Tama although it seemed as if it was unnecessary. He would let the golden light diminish from his hand and refocus himself to the leader to wait for his response to the current situation.

He took it well noting that it didn't really seem to work. Bruinetto explained his plan about making clones but the whole time Koga just thought how he would look when he explained to them why he could not fit with that plan. "I can't make clones. I can see right through them though." He wanted to make it clear that even though he could make clones he was an answer against them. He also believed that even if they made clones, if the enemy had sensors they would still be detected. Koga began to stretch his legs out working out his joints. He was going to have to use a few gates to control whatever situation came his way. He was prepared mentally for their usage and physically.

If any around him could feel chakra they would feel it circulating around him rapidly. However for those who weren't in tune with the spirits they would not understand what was truly happening. Koga's spiritual energy was beginning to take form using the air around him in order to aid his allies. They might have felt a warm breeze around them. "I can also do this as well. If you felt a warm breeze around you that is my power. I am in tune with the spirits of the country. They aid me naturally and I'm willing them to give you strength as well. People from my clan described it as an intense focus being gifted to them. As if their mind becomes clearer and at ease. I hope this helps in some manner." He would prepare himself for their journey was coming to a stop and the time for action was on the horizon.

["Activating" White Blessing]
[MFT]

 

[Toraono Michino]

The pain in the scientist’s eyes slowly began to recede as the temporary chakra he had absorbed from his fellow embodiment of curiosity circulated out of his system. Shaking his head and rubbing his eyes one more time Tama stood back up from the ground with a loud sniffle as the pain in his eyes triggered his olfactory reactions and caused his nose to water a little.
“Not…going to do that again anytime soon. Honestly it’s an ability I’m still learning how to use but I’m still not entirely useless. I’m able to at least make a clone.<i></i>” he chuckled at his own self mockery.

A small breeze radiating from the random mercenary who joined at the last second caught the blonde’s attention as he felt his vision, which was no longer being aided by his own dojutsu, grow slightly sharper. The scent on the wind brought about calmness to the ever turning gears of his brain which caused his vision to granted a slightly grander perspective.
It was an interesting jutsu to say the least.

“It looks likes now would be a good time to split up and start scouting,<i></i>” the blonde spoke up quietly as they neared some natural looking towers. The scientist’s walking went from uniform to moving ever so slightly between his companions as he weaved the signs that would send a pulse of chakra from his body to enter the ground. It would travel out a little ways in front of them and pull itself up from the side of the main road and away from the sight of the watchtowers to go out and scout around Soon ahead of them. Tama had no idea if anyone was actually in those things but he didn’t trust high places located so conveniently within watching distance of the canyon.

“We’ll see how far it gets before something tries to attack it. It should at least gauge if anything besides normal Soon watch guards are keeping an eye on us. Actually kind of surprised we haven’t ran into anyone at all yet…<i></i>

 

[Uri]

They continued on their way. Soon's was quickly a memory as they did brief preparation and left back into the more tame parts of the surrounding desert. Uri remained largely quiet as he let the others talk. There was something about this mission that just didn't settle well with him. The balance of life was in clear favor for the decimation of the poison-cultivators, but in their deaths also came new life with similar purpose to their own. Someone somewhere would lose a loved one, a brother, a mother and seek to finish the work. Even if they acted swift and decisive and left not a single molecule unburned it would change the world flow in such a profound way that it would alter how they would all live and for generation to come. Mulling this over had Uri largely listening and less conversing, thoughtfully chewing on his stick of pocky as to help keep himself focused. Many efforts of the party had seemed wonky at best anyway. There was a lot of room for error and no one had concrete answers to their simple problems. This mission may have been built up by the work of one, but it was not taking shape with the group as well as it needed to.

Maybe they would have a quirky montage of team-building exercises to help them come together.

Who knew?

A warm breeze snapped Uri from his daze and he discovered himself at the canyon opening, Soon's long out of sight. A lot of what was being said seemed ill-advised and complicated with a lot of unnecessary risk. He gazed at his ungloved hands once more, flexing them a few times, looking at the branded seals on his palms. There was a simple answer for this.

Shaking his head and looking around, he smiled again, this time seeming to actually be there since their leaving Soon's.

"Don't worry! This one is on me."<i></i> Uri knelt down and pressed his hands into the sand. The grains would slowly begin to shift and morph as they gathered in piles around them. A white clay and flecks of black stone began emerging from the swirling sands. One by one, small creatures began crawling out of the living mineral portal. Small rodents, birds, and reptiles that were local fauna. The different minerals helped shaped distinctive parts of each animal as to help them appear more real, "The amalgamation and reanimation of inanimate minerals."<i></i> Was the long, fancy way he liked to describe what he could do, "Or I can bring things made out of stone and earth to life."<i></i>

The animals immediately began scampering around, seeming as real as the beasts they were imitating. The birds took flight and vanished into the bright sky above them. Rat and lizard found holes within the rockwall and paths away from them, toward the stranger towers out in the distance.

"Oh, I can also make them go boom if I need to too."<i></i> He looked over to Bruinetto, "Just give the word, Captain."<i></i>

He had sent out about eight inanimate animal scouts to see what they could find. Imprinted with memories of his experiences with animals he had seen, they acted like normal, but with a secondary purpose. Of looking for things unnatural, people, and things that just didn't belong in the area. While Uri wasn't one for death and destruction, he was always capable of creating life when there needed to be some. His abilities were more than flexible to help fit into just about any situation.

[mft]

 

[Jenosaido Bruinetto]

A smirk came over Bruinetto's face as the groups special abilities were starting to blend well with one another. While not entirely sure of the potential benefits from the blessing that Koga was bestowing upon them there was an enhancement of senses that he would notice. The visual prowess of the young Uchiha was by far his most acute of senses. In fact it could be considered a weakness of his to rely more so on one sense than a multitude of senses. His overall perception could benefit by further training, but recounting what he lacks wouldn't help the current situation. Tama utilized a common jutsu for scouting purposes but what really surprised Bruinetto was the technique used by Uri. The ability to create life-like animations from the earth which could take on the form of something other than a humanoid was a valuable scouting tool. It was probably the best scouting tool they had in their arsenal, or rather perhaps the least conspicuous. He wasn't aware of the potential it may have had for relaying information. Most clone type abilities had a feedback mechanic that once dispersed would relay information acquired back to the caster. "Then looks like I have to offer my own measure to the mix..."

Pressing his hands together forming a simple array of seals three bursts of smoke would appear as far as he could project his chakra before them. These clones would be virtually defenseless considering the nature of how Bruinetto created them. They were physically tangible clones whose strength was based on the physical prowess of the user. Bruinetto was not the brutish type nor was he well versed in taijutsu. Following this trick a simple seal followed as all three of the clones who were identical to Bruinetto would have their form be altered. The three would take on the form of shinobi, however the apparel they wore was reminiscent of clothing from other nations. They would specifically be apparel from shinobi of Kirigakure. A while back during the yearly festival Bruinetto got the honor of speaking with the Mizukage. From the guards he kept he got a general idea of the kind of manner which their people dressed. It was the basis for the ruse with his clone jutsu. If they were to be spotted and identified the misdirection of them being from another nation could prove to be useful. If they were to believe that shinobi of Sunagakure was on their door step they may take even more precautions to intercept them. "I say from this point on we remove head bands labeling us as shinobi of Suna. Now that I think about it, they would be more weary of us than most other kinds of shinobi." Following his own incite he took the forehead protector and removed it placing it on a pouch that was attached to his belt.

-----

The small squad of scouts were making haste over the canyon ledges as they kept their eyes concentrated on the area down below. This group was a considerable distance away from the group of shinobi traveling into their territory. Taking into account their pace in accordance to the pace of the shinobi cell if both sides kept up with their current pace they would intercept the paths of one another within ten minutes. The small squad was comprised of approximately ten mercenaries. The group did not look uniform at all as there seemed to be nothing about their appearance that would label them as a cohesive group. There was no discernible leader within the group that had split into two smaller groups one on each ledge of the canyon. With no leader between the lot of them they were comparable to a pack of wild hyenas. The group cackled with wild laughter not even bothering to hide their presence. These wild dogs may not have had any distinct training be it from a shinobi school or any kind of military regime. Their prowess was developed on the battlefield in the midst of combat attempting to survive in the wild. Each of them held the prospect of reward by bringing back threats to the operations of the Soeki clan. They cared not for what their ultimate aims were so long as they would be paid well and taken care of with a safe haven to sleep in and food provided to them. As the pack rushed over the terrain the watch tower would contact the group. "A strange figure has appeared up above the canyon. I cannot be sure, but it seemed to appear out of nowhere. Be weary of the target when you confront it." Despite the warning they cared not for it's potential danger but they focused on the thrill of the hunt.

[MFT]
WC:792

 

[Enatsu]

Koga would glance at Uri as he revealed his talents. It seemed as though they were that of an artistic value, but every power had it's price. He wanted to ask the range of Uri's explosions so he knew how far to be away from them. There were things he wanted to ask his teammates but sometimes talking too much did nothing but waste time. He had no problem believing that this Uri fellow could control his own explosions but it would always be nice to know if he had to be overly wary. Still Tama seemed to be a mystery case, Koga had never heard of a person "borrowing" another's unique abilities, especially one that came from there lineage. Even the Uchiha couldn't copy those kinds of skills with their fabled Sharingan. Bruinetto began to mold his chakra and release it creating three clones of himself. This was a skill Koga wasn't entirely capable of but for the moment but he would do his best to take notes. Next Bruinetto would change the form of his clones into the forms of other "people". Koga was unsure about these forms but they had a strong resemblance to that of shinobi. Well isn't that useful. Espionage at it's finest but what about if they have sensors? Wouldn't it make these efforts for naught? Oh well I'm sure he has a plan for that, they're probably just distractions anyways. After witnessing this transformation Koga would fall back in line behind his comrades and watch their rear. If anything was to sneak up on them he'd be the first responder, the first shield for their assault. The leader of the mission soon changed his tune directing the group to remove their headbands and identification. Luckily for Koga he had no such thing just yet, for the time being he was a simple mercenary and that was what would serve him best. A lack of information on the inside of the village, even if he were taken captive by mind readers they would find nothing of use within his mind. Plus with his secret weapon in the form of the Eight Inner Gates, there was more of a safety cushion beneath him. As they walked Koga only had one question for Bruinetto. "So what is the plan for when we make contact with the enemy, how do we proceed? The leader knew their skill sets and now was the time for him to reveal the attack plans.

 

[Toraono Michino]

The Ryuu's eyes continued to burn rather badly despite having had them closed for a good minute. Of course it didn't help that every time he opened them up even a little the oxygen surrounding them would feel like a thousand needles stabbing into his eyes. There was no way he would be able to complete the mission with the rest of the group. It was very important that the he be able to regain his eyesight in order to be able to fight properly with the rest of the group, but the overload of Uchiha chakra mixed with his own had almost caused him to go completely blind right there from the overstimulation.

Slowly but surely he began to lag behind the rest of the group and lost focus of his chakra which caused the clone he had made to suddenly turn into dirt and drop back into the sands of the desert. Tama dropped to his knees and made a muffled cry of pain as he dug the palms of his hands into his skull to try and stop a new sudden throbbing pain now.

"I hate to be the bearer of bad...ow, news, but I don't think I can continue on like this. Apparently I got way too cocky at the start and tried something I really shouldn't have, though in my defense it sounded like a great idea. Y-you guys go on ahead, I'm gonna turn around and stumble my way back blindly until I hit a wall and hope it's the village and not another bandit cave...<i></i>"

Slowly gathering himself back on his feet the scientist turned on his heal and began to shuffle blindly back towards the village with the odd hope that Uri would make one of his clay animals to guide him so he didn't end up another casualty of being too smart for his own good.

[Topic Left; I'm really sorry I had to do this but I'm extremely overwhelmed by all the topics I'm in and I need to cut back one or two. Not to mention with the death of my computer all I have to work with is my wife's PC that we now share so I would end up being way~ too slow for this mission. SO in order to keep it from dragging on for half a year, I shall take my leave and let you guys tear it up! Sorry again.]

 

[Uri]

Uri looked over to Tama, who seemed to be having some issues. From the interactions he had with the young lad, his rash antics often got him into trouble. Uri was well-trained and had a good head on his shoulders. Common sense and keeping things simple often brought greater reward than trying to do something huge and over-the-top. Announcing he was going to try and get back to civilization half-blind Uri shook his head and placed his palm onto the earth. A swirling puddle of earth and rock formed and from it climbed out a desert wolf, "It'll get you to Soon's, but it'll degrade back to sand any farther than that. Good luck, mate. Keep yer head down out there."<i></i> He didn't bother to remove a headband as he didn't sport one. The world was too unpredictable to meander about toting loyalties that could earn you death at the door of an establish.

That left three of them. Two from sand and the mercenary. Uri liked their odds better with less present. More people meant there were greater chances for error and on a mission so tenuous as this they couldn't afford screw-ups. Closing his eyes and taking a few calm breaths, he refocused on the numerous beast-golems he had running about. There was good news at least as a handful of them had made discoveries.

"I have a lizard on the side of the distant watch tower. One guard and communications."<i></i> Switching focuses, he jumped to a lizard buried deep beneath the surface of the numerous rock faces, having dug into numerous cracks and hit metal, "And there is a hardened structure somewhere below us. Deep. I'm going to see if there is a way in we can use."<i></i> As he was switching, something made him jerk back. Devilish chortling, the laughter came through his connection with a beast, but it too echoed from beyond their position, "And a group of fighters. I'm moving the remainder of my animals into positions around them in the canyon. Give the word and I can probably bury a few of them with an explosive surprise."<i></i>

The advantage he did have was that every beast he had doubled as an explosive device and he could force a distraction just about anywhere because of that. The tactical edge was on their side. Create a diversion and use it to sneak past any security or just plow straight through them. Giving them too much heads-up was a bad idea in his mind. It would give them ample opportunity to move the poisons or set booby traps.

 

[Enatsu]

[OOC: Left due to inactivity]