How to spend a day off in a ghetto (OPEN/FREE)

[Toshiwakai Kagari]

Kagari walked out of his cramped apartment, stretching as he yawned. He gazed off into the distance, but again was reminded how claustrophobic it felt in Grand Palais. Apartment buildings, stores, and anything else all felt like they were stuffed into one place, almost like a hive of drones. There was no breathing room for anything in the Palais, especially the ghettos. Despite the city having shinobis everywhere, it doesn't exactly stop criminals and thugs from popping up. Kagari coughed as he breathed in the stagnant air, he could feel his lungs reject the oxygen he was inhaling. It wasn't the stench, but the smoke coming from somehwere. A nearby factory, or a neighbor smoking; who knows? Breathing this stuff was unhealthy for you. He started walking down the metal stairs and was going to go somwhere. Actually, he didn't have any destination in mind. Today was one of those rare days, a day where he can do almost anything. The academy was closed today due to a holiday, so this meant some well deserved free time. His mother didn't need help with shopping or one of her side jobs, so this meant some actual free time for Kagari. The trouble is, what to do?

</COLOR>The Grand Palais is a hellhole, and most of the stuff that are meant for "fun" are for those of age. Besides, most of those places Kagari heard about his mother forbidded him from ever going to, or else...As Kagari kept walking, he had no destination in mind, letting his feet take him wherever. He kept pondering on where to go; outside Palais maybe? Maybe back to the Kazekage tower so he can go sightseeing again? Or the Grand shinobi complex? Despite the academy being closed, he can get in some training? Kagari shook his head at thsoe thoughts, he was going to stop being a academy student and try to have fun again. He was tired of thinking about becoming a ninja for now and just wanted to unwind like any other kid would do.

<COLOR color="#000040">Maybe the park in palais would be a good place to go to? It was close by and he could play on the jungle gym. As he made his way to the park, he observed the playground and immediately sighed. 'I forgot, the playground here sucks to.' Kagari sighed inwardly as he observed the playground in Palais' Park. The swingset looked rusted, as if it hasn't been properly taken care of. Some of the seats were also missing leaving only one swing actually working. Although it would probably break upon usage honestly. The jungle gym itself was very minimal, a step, a slide, and that's about it. It looks very basic, and not very interesting. As he walked closer he noticed a puddles of what looks to be water on one of the steps on the jungle gym. It didn't rain however...Kagari took one step backwards and away from the sorry excuse that is the playground. He sighed again, now thinking of just returning home. Kagari walked towards a bridge that was build over a canal and observed the stagnant water sitting there and pondered:

"How do you a spend a day off in a ghetto?"

WC: 529
Marked for Training

 

[Takahashi]

"Contact"
Logic​

At the end of the bridge, opposite to where Kagari entered, were four young men. None of them looked like Shinobi, but what did a Shinobi look like? The dark-haired Takahashi Jin'ichi stood just across a man with piercings and a shaved head. While Jin'ichi sipped an orange can of soda in his left hand, he took back his cigarettes. Apparently he'd given the guy a smoke. That was noting out of the ordinary though, Jin'ichi was never selfish with his smokes even if charity wasn't his thing. Consuming the poisonous toxins wasn't the best thing for him to be doing in the first place, and sharing death meant less of it for himself. After slipping the pack into his hooded sweater, he looked up with a grin and a nod. His left eye was covered by a patch, but since nobody knew him they wouldn't find it strange at all. Earlier he had woke to an unpleasant surprise, one he intended to keep secret until he understood what was going on.

Wearing dark denim jeans, and All-Star sneakers he looked like just another urban rat. Though his flesh had begun to turn pale, it seemed the color was returning to his skin. Maybe on the surface he would have been out of place, but the Grand Palais felt like home with its buildings and atmosphere. His forehead protector hung loosely around his neck, dangling beneath the neck of his sweatshirt and hidden from view. Flaunting his status wasn't a thing he ever planned on doing. The only clues to his identity might have been the few belt pouches about his waist, but whatever tools were inside made no noise. As he slipped one into his mouth and walked passed the boy with glasses, he paid the child no mind. Had there been anyone else holding that cigarette, maybe things would have been different. His ancestors had been involved in the great war against the Ancients, descendants of the First Men that fought alongside Primus. It was a legend people knew well throughout Wind Country. It would seem that even since those times men that shared his blood were destined to involve themselves in the most unfortunate of circumstances.

No more than three steps or so passed Kagari, would Jin'ichi feel the ground shaking beneath their feet. Closing his one visible eye, and releasing a small sigh, he tossed the now empty soda can over his shoulder and into the murky water. The sound of water being splashed about beneath the bridge grew loud as the stagnant green liquid fell around both Jin'ichi and the boy with glasses. A shadow passed over them both, and landed several feet away with a soggy thud. Turning around yet again and deciding to slip his cigarette behind his ear, Jin'ichi crouched into a fighting stance while the slimy creature stepped into the light. He didn't know what it was, and it wouldn't pretend that he did. Knowing his rank as Genin, but his duty to face any threat, his actions would seem rehearsed. His right hand reached into his pocket, pulling out a signal flare he aimed upwards and fired. It was unlikely they'd receive any immediate backup, but no one could make the claim he didn't follow procedure.

With its mouth opening, the beast would spit forth a thick green glob of liquid. Shifting to his right and ducking once more, he avoided the projectile and unsheathed the Ninjato hidden at his back beneath his hooded sweater. As the liquid hit the bridge it would start to burn through the metal rails, revealing itself to be acidic. As the beast wriggled forward, it moved like a gecko. Now beside Kagari, Jin'ichi would look at the boy and attempt to push him out of the way as the reptilian beast jumped towards them. Both males would be pushed in opposite directions, letting the creature pass between them and slide along the floor. "If you're not a Shinobi you should probably get outta' here."<i></i> Was all he said, returning to his fighting stance and shifting his blade to an inverted grip. On one hand, the student could run away and continue looking for ways to kill time. On the other, he might know just enough to be of some use to a man that was already accepted as a full-fledged Shinobi... Even if not a very good or powerful one. If not, then Jin'ichi was on his own against something that was probably about to go on a killing spree. Yes, he was off duty, but since everyone else was running away or panicking it only seemed like the right thing to do. Since when did he care about that?

 

[Toshiwakai Kagari]

Kagari just stood there, lost in his thoughts as he was unsure on where to go next. Fortunatnely for him, it seems fate would answer his question on where to spend his free time. He didn't notice the group of men on the other side of the bridge, as they traded stories and cigarettes. Despite the pungent smell of a the small nicotine paper package, the smell seems to be overpowered by the stench of the water below the bridge. He only noticed them until they got within close proximity. Kagari observed them as they walked on by. The group passed paid him no mind; going about their business to do...whatever a group of guys do.

There was one that stood out though; he was wearing a loose black hoodie and had some of the same traits that Kagari had. He had black hair, dark eyes which while may not seem remarkable; everyone Kagari knew had bright red hair in Suna. The feature thatt stood out the most was the white eye patch covering his left eye. Kagari didn't even notice the boy's ninja headband around his neck, the eye patch pretty much drew all his attention. However before he could think any more on the stranger's possible injury with his eye, Kagari was literally shook out of his thoughts as he felt the ground shake beneath him. He lost balance for a minute as he was unprepared for the sudden shake: 'Was than an Earthquake? it felt pretty small for an earthquake...' Kagari reasoned as he regained his balance. Sadly, it wasn't an earthquake...Actually, the alternative was much...much worse. Out of nowhere, a monster had leaped from under the bridge and into the daylight before Kagari and the group.

Kagari just stood there gaping at the beast before uttering a single word.] "What...the...hell..." Kagari would have just stood there staring at his possible death before he noticed the boy with the eyepatched leaped into action, firing off a flare to notify someone that this thing is here. Kagari looked behind him to see if the group was still there, but it seems they had already started running from the monster in front of them. Although his immdiete attention was brought to the predicatment in front of them as he was pushed to the side.

With its mouth opening, the beast would spit forth a thick green glob of liquid. Shifting to his right and ducking once more, he avoided the projectile and unsheathed the Ninjato hidden at his back beneath his hooded sweater. As the liquid hit the bridge it would start to burn through the metal rails, revealing itself to be acidic. As the beast wriggled forward, it moved like a gecko. Now beside Kagari, Jin'ichi would look at the boy and attempt to push him out of the way as the reptilian beast jumped towards them. Both males would be pushed in opposite directions, letting the creature pass between them and slide along the floor

Kagari braced himself for the sudden push, catching the railing as he turned towards the beast. 'Crap, if I he wasn't here...I could have..' Kagari gulped at the thought of being tackled by that thing, or worse. The said boy was already anticipating the next move from the monster. Before he dropped back into his guard, he spoke a few choice words for Kagari; almost like a warning.

"If you're not a Shinobi you should probably get outta' here."

The boy got into a fighting stance, and the beast it self sat there; deciding on who it's target would be probably. Kagari was beside himself, asking whether or not he should run or help. Sure, he had been trained in basic combat, but he hadn ever been in a situation like this before. He was still fresh in the academy, barely skimming the lessons on charka usage and ninjutsu. But Kagari didn't want to run; he was tired of running. He was tired of moving from place to place, tired of relying on someone else to save him.

He made a choice today that he hoped he never regrets, he decided today was the day he stopped taking the easy way out. After all thats why he became a shinobi, to learn how to give a damn for once. "I'm not a shinobi yet; but I'm not running...." Kagari responded to the boy as he got into a basic fighting stance. He braced himself for whatever was going to happen next.

WC: 634
Marked For Training

 

[Takahashi]

His grip tightened on the hilt of his blade, and his feet dug themselves firmly into the soil that gave way to pressure. Inhaling slowly through his nostrils, he would both relax his mind and tense his body. The unseen Chi would flow from a spot just above and between the eyes, causing the extremities affected to overflow with energy. Although he was more than old enough to be considered a grown man, he was a novice when it came to Shinobi life. The ways of Ninjutsu and Genjutsu had never been shown to him, and yet, melee prowess driven by internal passion cleared the way. With barely a couple of months of training, he was starting to get used to feeling his own spiritual energy. Maybe it was in his blood, or maybe the quick assimilation of knowledge and technique was uniquely his own gift. Whatever the case was, it was obvious he would shatter the expectations of those who doubted his worth. More oft than not, the average citizen confused military rank a proper gauge of individual strength. Genin overpowering Chuunin weren't common, but human beings weren't limited by their titles.

The boy next to him made it clear he was ready to fight, and Jin'ichi couldn't help but smile and nod. "Cover me then." He didn't need to have prior knowledge of the youth's skills, because in a moment he'd bear witness to whatever the bespectacled pup could muster. Suddenly he would flicker and then fade out of sight, leaving a trail of dust spiraling in his wake. By the time he was visible once more, he was half a foot passed the lizard and had sliced off both its right legs. The severed limbs seemed to float in the air while the Takahashi clansman slid across the earth. Yellow blood spattered all about, but before the limbs could hit the ground they swelled and morphed into smaller lizards of the same kind. The original one he'd slashed had already regrown what Jin'ichi had sliced off, and suddenly split itself in two directions. Both halves would regrow a symmetrically perfect half to replace the other portion of themselves. One burrowing reptile had suddenly become four. "Great." He muttered sarcastically, sheathing his weapon and running back towards the multiplying monsters. He knew not that cutting them was a very bad idea, and that even without his help they could reproduce with the same ease. They needed to be destroyed in a more thorough manner, but how?

Notes:<i></i>
- Used Vanishing Slash [Rank 1] (My signature move?)
- Ugly-Thing has split into 4.

 

[Toshiwakai Kagari]

Despite Kagari's newfound resolve, he was still usnure and untested in battle. He could feel his nervousness and anxiety spark up as he locked on to the beast. His brave words could only do so much, now it was time to act; to prove that his words were not false. His breathing became quicker, his heartrate was increasing by tenfold as if he ran a couple miles around Suna. He knew that fighting scared and unsure would be the quickest way to lose, or most likely; death. He steeled himself, analyzing the creature, trying his best to study it's movements. 'Well it obviously likes meat, since it seems it wants to eat us.' Kagari mused. 'It's pretty fast, even if it's just the two of us it can prbably out manuver us because it's so agile...'</I></B><I>

The boy next to him was doing something as well, almost like in a meditative trance he breathed in and out slowly. He was gathering energy; preparing himself for the fight to come.

His grip tightened on the hilt of his blade, and his feet dug themselves firmly into the soil that gave way to pressure. Inhaling slowly through his nostrils, he would both relax his mind and tense his body.

<i></i>

Kagari could see that he was tense as well, despite being seemingly aloof of the situation, his expression gave it away. Kagari could tell he wasn't that much older, or at least the same age. Was he thirteen? Twelve? Fourteen? Kagari shook those thoughts out of his head, he knew those thoughts were definately not important now as the possibility of being eaten by this underground freak of nature. Not sure on when to make the next move, Kagari felt like letting the boy next to him take the lead. He was obviously the most expierenced, and seems to at least have the most skill dealing with...well this.

Kagari heard a couple more words from said boy,

<B>The boy next to him made it clear he was ready to fight, and Jin'ichi couldn't help but smile and nod. "Cover me then."

Kagari nodded in agreement, he grabbed out of his pack some kunai and shurkien. Kagari had at least been taught basic throwing skills and how to at least work with a partner. He had to be careful thought, he didn't want to hurt his newfound battle buddy. The next second the boy was gone, and Kagari knew he had to make some sort of move now. He threw a pair of kunai in the direction of the beast in order to draw it's attention torwards him. Hopefully, his ally would come up and do something. He thankfully did as the boy slashed some of the limbs of the beast like butter. 'Wow, he sure made quick work of that..' Kagari was impressed, the boy definatnely was very skilled. Sadly, their small victory turned into another challenge as the lizard monster's limbs seemed to be growing back.

The severed limbs seemed to float in the air while the Takahashi clansman slid across the earth. Yellow blood spattered all about, but before the limbs could hit the ground they swelled and morphed into smaller lizards of the same kind. The original one he'd slashed had already regrown what Jin'ichi had sliced off, and suddenly split itself in two directions. Both halves would regrow a symmetrically perfect half to replace the other portion of themselves. One burrowing reptile had suddenly become four. "Great." He muttered sarcastically, sheathing his weapon and running back towards the multiplying monsters. He knew not that cutting them was a very bad idea, and that even without his help they could reproduce with the same ease. They needed to be destroyed in a more thorough manner, but how?

"Of course the monster can grow back limbs and make clones of itself...Of Course" Kagari yelled out sarcastically. An idea hatched in his head, 'The way you deal with an bug infestation...' Kagari then yelled out at his ally.

"We have to Burn the SUCKER!"<i></i>

WC: 477
Marked For training

 

[Takahashi]

(lol Jin'ichi is 26 years old. We'll chalk it up to Kagari's glasses.)

With the young teen having already thrown a pair of Kunai, Jin'ichi waited until they hit their targets. As the steel pierced their thin coating, Jin'ichi sped up and punted one of the creatures. Taking advantage of momentum already spent, he kept spinning and thrust his leg out to stomp a heel into the face of the other. The third would tackle him from behind, ramming its shoulders into the Takahashi's back. The force of impact would send him crashing onto the ground. Quickly rolling over and off his stomach, a luckily raised foot lodged itself in the chest of a lizard that had pounced. After kicking that one off he continued to roll, pushing himself off the floor just in time to launch a knee into the forehead of forth with enough strength to send them both sliding back. His slide would come to a halt as the wall found his back, and the reptilians regrouped in front of him.

He could hear his temporary comrades suggestion loud and clear, but there was one problem. "Well, where the Hell am I supposed to get fire from?!" His exclamation would make it clear he didn't possess an affinity with the element. As a matter of fact, he hadn't performed a single Ninjutsu in his entire life. Regardless of how he was looking out there, he'd never set foot in an academy nor ever received formal training. Impulse and instinct would be harnessed by primal inheritance, and it appeared almost as though he carried a sixth sense. None of this applied to the manipulation of the elements, which in his mind he still viewed as separate from himself. Without guidance, the only extensions of himself he seemed to acknowledge were his body and the weapons it wielded.

One of the reptilian quartet would turn to face Kagari, and rapidly belch out three globs of acid trying to burn him away. The second ran passed the first, crawling towards Kagari with purpose. The latter two would charge Jin'ichi, who performed a side-cartwheel only narrowly slipping between the two beasts. With his palm still on the ground, Jin'ichi lost his balance once the two reptiles crashed into the wall behind him. Falling onto his shoulder and rolling into a full sprint, with the energy now flowing through his legs the Genin launched himself through the air. Even with his feet off the ground, more momentum would be gain in mid-air and send him off like shot. His attack would kick one of the beast charging Kagari into the stagnant water, but the other was too far ahead. The boy was on his own in dealing with that one, because the others were already coming for Jin'ichi. Hopefully the kid knew some Ninjutsu, or their fight would continue.

Notes:
- Dodged/countered several attacks.
- Used Dynamic Entry [Mastered].
- Feel free to take full control of no more than two of these creatures at a time. I want to give you some free reign here. Still need the other two for some plot.
- Have fun with it.

WC: 464
Marked for Training.

 

[Toshiwakai Kagari]

(OOC: Oops. Well things are happening really quickly, so you can't blame a thirteen year old thinking the dude next to him is a boy. I mean it's not like you can blame the poster for not paying attention and not reading up on profiles... Also unfortantely i don't have ninjutsu, but i do have unarmed. )

Kagari was hopeful that his ally would understand his advice. Fire would be a good way to either eradicate the bug-freak completly, or at least severely injure where one of them could make the finishing blow. Although the only problem was...how the hell were they going to the appropiate amount of fire to toast the bug? Kagari's ally did hear his advice, and echoed the same question that popped in Kagari's mind.

</B>

He could hear his temporary comrades suggestion loud and clear, but there was one problem. "Well, where the Hell am I supposed to get fire from?!" His exclamation would make it clear he didn't possess an affinity with the element.

<i></i>

'He's right thought...where are-' An epiphany thankfully hit him at this crucial moment, thinking back to a few minutes later: "Your Lighter and your flare! You've got to have a lighter since you smoke?! Use that to start a fire!" Kagari yelled out. Kagari's constant yelling also drew the attnetion of the now "offspring" of the "bug-freak" as they picked Kagari as their target.

<B>One of the reptilian quartet would turn to face Kagari, and rapidly belch out three globs of acid trying to burn him away. The second ran passed the first, crawling towards Kagari with purpose.

Kagari backed away from the acid, he noticed that it started seeping into concrete bridge, slowling burning holes through the thick stone. One touch of this acid would definately be excrusatingly painful. Kagari made sure to avoid the acid as much as possible, but he hadn't noticed the second critter. It to was working in unison with it's partner, actually it seemed to almost replicated the same moves that Kagari and his ally made. 'Do these things have minds of their own? Can they copy our moves?!' Kagari was alarmed at the speed of the bug as it's purpose was clear; kill. Kagari kept backing away from the two bugs attacking him; trying to create some distance between him and the one charging. Out of hte corner of his eye he could see his ally already working to help him out, charging one of the monsters at full speed. Kagari halted his back peddling, reached out his arms getting ready to use the momentum of one of the bugs charging him; and throw it into the ground with as much force as possible.

'I have to time this right...If not, I'm probably dead. Screw it, bring it on you bug freak!'


Notes:
- Used Strategy
- Used Taijutsu 101 (Unarmed)

OOC: I'm calling it bug freak from now on. Also i'll address the age issue in a later post.

WC: 319
Marked for training

 

[Takahashi]

OOC: Don't worry about it, was more poking at you for not reading the profile. The character has more than enough excuses, including bad vision. Bug-Freak is solid. We're going with that.

A confident smirk etched its way onto his face. Unlike most people, he didn't lost himself in a sea of emotion once it was time for combat. Battle was inherent to his nature, a constant and familiar presence throughout his life long before becoming a Shinobi. His primal instincts were bestial in nature, and it was hard to tell if he worried for his comrades at all. The subtleties of his actions were all that belied his deeper conscience. There was no need for him to protect the boy who chose to stay, and yet the distraction of his presence derailed the ideology of self preservation.

Just as he reeled his right arm back preparing another strike, sudden weight yanked him to the floor. One of the reptilian Bug-Freaks had bitten after his arm, but luckily caught a mouthful of sleeve. Through roars and chaos he heard Kagari's plans. It was at that moment he felt stupid, allowing a massive bead of sweat to roll down the side of his face. Of course he had fire, he was never without it. It was admittedly a good plan, except for the fact that he only had one flare on him in the first place. How did the ANBU and others expect to see a flare clearly through the thick glass that surrounded the Grand Palais in the first place? Someone should have been on their way already!

The boy managed to narrowly avoid a charge while using the momentum to drive the Bug-Freak face-first into the dirt. The tactic had been successful, and the creature lay still in a motionless sleep. From his position on the ground, Jin'ichi swung his feet together resulting in three full rotational kicks. Each clipped multiple legs several times before burying its heel into the skull of one, knocking it out cold. Jumping back and pulling out his lighter, he began to soundlessly mouth words. With the two remaining Bug-Freaks charging both him and Kagari, he still took the time to breathe and even close his eyes.

The next moment his eyes were open, and his right palm opened beneath his lighter. Unable to create fire, he took at advantage of an existing source. The energy flowing into his palm pushed out around the lighter's spark like a flamethrower. The beasts would shriek and scream as they began to rapidly melt, and scramble in futile attempts at escape. They flopped around spitting their acid all about, and even began snapping at one another. Their movements would slow as their bodies began to dry out, until two charred sculptures of the beasts biting each other's necks were all that remained. The fire died down and Jin'ich closed his palm, slipping out of his fighting stance.

The smirk returned and he laughed just a little before closing his lighter and stuffing it in his pocket. Walking towards the boy with the glasses, he looked left and right at the unconscious Bug-Freaks and bit his lip. Unsure as to whether or not he'd be able to pull off the technique again, he held up a single finger before speaking as if to say 'Hold on.' and then cleared his throat. "Ahem... So, uh- Thanks?"<i></i> Perhaps one of the most awkward displays of gratitude of all time. Rubbing his knuckles quickly against his own chin, as if dusting off the matter, he brought a question to the front. "What's your name? Sousuke should probably know who helped me catch these things..."<i></i> A simple set of words, but did he already say too much?

Note(s):
- Kagari KOs a Bug-Freak using its own momentum, driving it into the floor head first.
- Jin'ichi uses Spinning Wind [Rank One] as crowd control to escape. KO's another Bug-Freak.
- Jin'ichi uses Dragon Fire [Rank One] with his lighter, toasting two Bug-Freaks.
- Victory.

 

[Toshiwakai Kagari]

Using the power of physics and careful planning, Kagari was able to succesfully grapple the bug freak and throw it into the ground; knocking it out in one brutal hit. Kagari was suprised, and a bit elated to say the least. He was impressed at how much damage he did to the creature. While it may not to seem have killed the bug-freak; he was able to at least remove it off the threat list. He reminded himself of the situation at hand, and turned his attention quickly after musing over his minor victory. It seemed that his other plan of using fire to eradicate the bugs seemed to be working; with a slight bit of revising and improvization on the hand of his ally. He was impressed at his ally's skill, as he used powerful taijustsu techniques consisting of kicks and agile manuvers. It felt like Kagari was watching a kung fu movie, this person was clearly skilled at fighting and was not a person to be messed with. He was obviously at least a genin, as Kagari remembered seeing the headband around his ally's neck. Could he have possibly been a chunin or possibly a jounin? Kagari noticed that he was about to play his last card, and following through with Kagari's plan; using the lighter as a small fuel source for the fire.

From his position on the ground, Jin'ichi swung his feet together resulting in three full rotational kicks. Each clipped multiple legs several times before burying its heel into the skull of one, knocking it out cold. Jumping back and pulling out his lighter, he began to soundlessly mouth words. With the two remaining Bug-Freaks charging both him and Kagari, he still took the time to breathe and even close his eyes.

The next moment his eyes were open, and his right palm opened beneath his lighter. Unable to create fire, he took at advantage of an existing source. The energy flowing into his palm pushed out around the lighter's spark like a flamethrower. The beasts would shriek and scream as they began to rapidly melt, and scramble in futile attempts at escape. They flopped around spitting their acid all about, and even began snapping at one another. Their movements would slow as their bodies began to dry out, until two charred sculptures of the beasts biting each other's necks were all that remained. The fire died down and Jin'ich closed his palm, slipping out of his fighting stance.

Thankfully the weather out in Grand Palais wasn't too cold; or else mother nature would have prevented them from even summoning any sort of flame. Kagari breathed a sigh of relief as he saw the last of the bug-freaks die off, hopefully for good. He almost collapsed to the ground after the intensity of the small battle died down; instead he just leaned on the railway once again. HIs haggard breathing was returnning to normal, and his pulse slowing down as he watched the bug-freaks burn slowly. If he could admit directly what he was actual feeling beisdes relief, it would be pleasure from the sounds of flesh and shell roasting crisply from the fire. He noticed his ally dropping his guard, conceding that they had been victorius; Kagari mentally slapped himself in the head as he observed him. 'Wait this guy isn't 13... or even 18. He's a grown man!' Kagari felt embarassed that he glossed over such a major detail, of course the guy was good at fighting! He was way older than Kagari, probably twice his age! The man turned his head and almost seemed elated as Kagari was:

The smirk returned and he laughed just a little before closing his lighter and stuffing it in his pocket. Walking towards the boy with the glasses, he looked left and right at the unconscious Bug-Freaks and bit his lip. Unsure as to whether or not he'd be able to pull off the technique again, he held up a single finger before speaking as if to say 'Hold on.' and then cleared his throat. "Ahem... So, uh- Thanks?" Perhaps one of the most awkward displays of gratitude of all time. Rubbing his knuckles quickly against his own chin, as if dusting off the matter, he brought a question to the front. "What's your name? Sousuke should probably know who helped me catch these things..." A simple set of words, but did he already say too much?

Kagari noticed that there were two more critters left, the one he threw to the ground like ball and the other one that got the s**t kicked out of it. 'Damn, I forgot about those two.' Kagari mentally cursed at the idea of them waking up, and the possiblity of hatching up another quick and simple plan. Although the man in front of him felt a bit uneasy, maybe at the presence of the bug-freaks or the guy wasn't great talking to people. Although up close he did smell like cigarettes, and for once; Kagari was thankful for that. Because if it wasn't for a possible nicotine addiction, this battle wouldn't have gone as smoothly as it did...Despite the circumstances.

"No problem, honestly I should be the one thanking you, you did most of the heavy work." Kagari looked around at the man's handiwork; There were cracks in the pavement, walls...Scorch marks from the mini-fire, and the corpses of the dead and the injured; except the corpses were these freaks of nature from Hell possibly. "My name's Kagari, I'm an academy student here in-" Kagari then remembered the other words that the man mentioned besides his question, "Wait, you were trying to capture those things?!" Kagari exclaimed as he looked at the man questioningly.

(OOC: Kagari would probably not remember the name of the kazekage at this point or any other name besides his own. Being that he just got out his first life or death sort of situation)

Words: 632
Marked For Training

 

[Takahashi]

Everything seemed so different now, silence prevailing over the rambunctious chaos. Jin'ichi rubbing his back gingerly as he listened to the boy speak. Having taken two powerful blows to his back in quick succession, the Takahashi clansman found himself stretching left and right in an attempt to loosen tight muscles. Beneath his clothing dark purple bruises spread across his torso in large spots. The child having introduced himself as Kagari would notice how tired Jin'ichi appeared, small graying bags beneath each eye. Whatever vital essence he had before seemed drained, but more likely than not it was the price he paid for his first manipulation of the elements. Having essentially bent flame to his will, his will needed to be harnessed and condensed in the first place. It was an unorthodox method, and one he came up with ultimately on his own. It worked.

He would notice the embarrassment that haunted the child, but nothing in his mind could come up with a reason as to why. It didn't matter though. Kagari had shown his own gratitude, and both young men were on good terms. The surprised exclamation from Kagari would instantly be met with a mischievous snickering from Jin'ichi. "Yep!"</COLOR><i></i> He answered swiftly, hobbling over towards the first of the two unconscious creatures and pat it once. Reaching into his belt pouch afterwards, he'd pull out a syringe and inject the Bug-Freak with it. The reptilian barely stirred, and fell into a deeper sleep. As he wrapped a thin black rope beneath its forearms the dark-haired Shinobi addressed the student. "Name's Jin'ichi, or Jin. Which-"<i></i> Pausing suddenly he felt a vibration in his pocket, followed by loud ringing. Pulling out the small black phone, he'd flip it open.

"This better be Sousuke." He begun angrily, but paused once the voice confirmed his inquiry. "Must be alright if you can make phone calls... You're an ass for how you talked to Shiori."<i></i> Wasting no time in hammering away at his cousin, he was about to go into detail about how bad the feud was for the clan. Instead he was met with an invitation. Pausing in thought he suddenly smirked and spoke his mind. "A drink's a drink, man. How about Shinji's place? I've got shit to show you any way."<i></i> He nodded as if the person on the other end of the line could see him. "Mhm. Gotcha'." With a click his phone was snapped shut, and he was already finished tranquilizing the second Bug-Freak and tying it up. "That's Sousuke now, might as well kill two birds with one stone."<i></i> Wrapping both lengths of rope about his fist twice, he began walking and hauling the bodies behind him.

"Kagari, right? Follow me. Today's your lucky day kid." Without saying much else, he would hoist the two bodies up and let them hand over his shoulder. The dangling limbs swayed across his back, and the drooling burrower left a trail of saliva behind them. <COLOR color="red">"I heard these weird things were starting to show up around the places water settled and softened the surrounding earth, kind of like when worms pop out after it rains. So I just hung out and smoked cigarettes with the locals until something happened. I was about to leave before- Well this."<i></i> With a shrug he referenced their entire ordeal. Traveling through the crowded walkways, most people avoided their path due to their hideous cargo. By the time they reached a little obscure tavern tucked away in a dark corner, the man at the door eyed Jin'ichi suspiciously. "Chill out, I'm meeting the Kazekage here."<i></i> With his free hand, Jin'ichi would pull up and show the forehead protector around his neck. The Sungakure emblem was spotless, and the metal comprising its plate immaculate. His was brand new, anyone could see that.

With a nod and a grunt, the doorman stood aside to let Jin'ichi inside. If Kagari had chosen to stick around, their association would be obvious and the boy would be granted entry also. The tavern was dark, and nothing seemed special about it whatsoever. The few flashing lights that attempted to liven things up flickered as if about to die. There were only a handful of patrons, and only a handful of them bothered to look at Jin'ichi and the freakish bodies he carried. They'd find a table and he'd set the two bodies down, taking the seat closest to them. He'd lean back into his seat, wiping his hands off on his jeans and stretching his arms out. As an attractive young waitress scantily clad began to approached their table from across the floor, Jin'ichi craned his neck in Kagari's direction if the boy had kept up this far. "Kid, you drink?"<i></i> What a question... More likely than not he didn't think the youth a drinker, but that didn't mean the boy might not have been one to indulge an impulse or try his luck. Then again, having mentioned that they'd be meeting the Kazekage, maybe the child wouldn't want to look bad in front of his superiors?

OC: Inviting Sousuke and Nishiro, as per Sousuke's call here.

 

[Miroku Riyota]

Nishiro entered the tavern slightly ahead of the Kazekage, he assumed this would be the place they were headed towards and he was eager to meet Sousuke's contact. He stood just in front of the entryway a slight smirk on his face as he examined the area. There was no-one in the vicinity who particularly stood out to him. To be honest, the pub was mostly filled with waitresses and belligerent drunks. It was not until he spotted a man in an eyepatch sitting next to a young boy in glasses. The man did not look old enough to be a Father...brothers perhaps? Although they did not have many similarities facially. Nishiro decided to sit down with the pair anyway, even if it was not the man Sousuke had called, it would be an interesting opportunity to meet some new people. "Very charming place you have here." Nishiro said to the two as he sat down, a fake smile plastered on his face. "I do hope the drink here is good, I am dreadfully thirsty." he said to them, making small talk. The man gave an impression of pleasantness but if you were to look close enough there would definitely be a somewhat...uncomfortable aura emanating from Nishiro.

"So tell me." Nishiro said leaning forward towards Jin "Are you the man the Kazekage called." Nishiro knew he could've very easily waited for Sousuke, but had decided the discovery would be more fun. He waited patiently for the other man's response.

 

[Toshiwakai Kagari]

Kagari was astonished that this man was after these creatures. He couldn't reason what any one would want with them because of how terrifying they are and how easily they can get out of hand. But it seem the man wasn't to worried about the details; despite the hassle that they had to go through to even incapacitate just one of the bug-freaks. He could see that the man took some minor injuries, wincing a bit as he stretched his body. He obviously had some minor injuries, but nothing to major other than some bruises probably.

Spoiler

</COLOR>

He would notice the embarrassment that haunted the child, but nothing in his mind could come up with a reason as to why. It didn't matter though. Kagari had shown his own gratitude, and both young men were on good terms. The surprised exclamation from Kagari would instantly be met with a mischievous snickering from Jin'ichi. "Yep!" He answered swiftly, hobbling over towards the first of the two unconscious creatures and pat it once. Reaching into his belt pouch afterwards, he'd pull out a syringe and inject the Bug-Freak with it.

<i></i>​

Kagari noticed the medical syringe that the man took out of his pocket; the liquid was colorless but it probably was something that will help with dealing with the remaining two bug-freaks. Kagari observed quietly as the man did the simple process of injecting the still critter, although Kagari was still a bit on edge because he was afraid that the critters would suddenly wake up. Thankfully, they didn't as the injection did it's work and the bug-freaks were in a death-like stasis. He did restrained it with a rope however.

Spoiler

<COLOR color="#800000">
The reptilian barely stirred, and fell into a deeper sleep. As he wrapped a thin black rope beneath its forearms the dark-haired Shinobi addressed the student. "Name's Jin'ichi, or Jin. Which-" Pausing suddenly he felt a vibration in his pocket, followed by loud ringing. Pulling out the small black phone, he'd flip it open.

Kagari was going to speak up, but the sounds of vibration from Jin's pocket quieted him. Kagari learned the name of the man in front of him, now busy talking on the phone to someone. Kagari reasoned that the person talking was probably the one who wanted the bug-freaks; or someone related to the creatures. Kagari listened intently as Jin spoke outloud to the person on the other side of the phone. Although Kagari wondered, the man had something that was able to comunicate across a far distance, besides the signal flare he lit up much earlier...'Couldn't he have called someone here? Or use an emergency hotline...?' Kagari was a bit confused, trying to come up with an excuse of why Jin couldn't use it. It was a tough battle and the bug-freaks did have a number advantage...But Kagari had to remind him of his lighter, and the flare he used...So Kagari wondered: 'Is Jin...absent minded?' Those thoughts got erased out of his mind as he listend to the conversation Jin was having.

Spoiler

This better be Sousuke." He begun angrily, but paused once the voice confirmed his inquiry. "Must be alright if you can make phone calls... You're an ass for how you talked to Shiori." Wasting no time in hammering away at his cousin, he was about to go into detail about how bad the feud was for the clan. Instead he was met with an invitation. Pausing in thought he suddenly smirked and spoke his mind. "A drink's a drink, man. How about Shinji's place? I've got shit to show you any way." He nodded as if the person on the other end of the line could see him. "Mhm. Gotcha'." With a click his phone was snapped shut, and he was already finished tranquilizing the second Bug-Freak and tying it up. "That's Sousuke now, might as well kill two birds with one stone." Wrapping both lengths of rope about his fist twice, he began walking and hauling the bodies behind him.

<i></i>​

"I hope they're out for good." Kagari walked over to Jin as he observed the bug-freaks intently, kicking one of them lightly with his foot. Kagari winced a bit, 'Damn these shells look tougher than they look...Good thing it's probably lights out.' He took a couple steps around both critters, intently avoding any more contact with them and focused his head on Jin'ichi. "So...what do we do with them now?" Kagari asked.

Spoiler

"Kagari, right? Follow me. Today's your lucky day kid." Without saying much else, he would hoist the two bodies up and let them hand over his shoulder. The dangling limbs swayed across his back, and the drooling burrower left a trail of saliva behind them. "I heard these weird things were starting to show up around the places water settled and softened the surrounding earth, kind of like when worms pop out after it rains. So I just hung out and smoked cigarettes with the locals until something happened. I was about to leave before- Well this." With a shrug he referenced their entire ordeal.

<i></i>​

"Well sure...I was doing nothing anyways." Kagari shrugged and followed Jin. Now, Normally you despite the circumstances; you wouldn't follow a grown man with two deadly creatures hoisted on his back around Grand Palais. You're just asking to be robbed, beaten, or teased. But, Kagari followed anyway throwing caution in the wind. He wasn't sure why he was following him as they made their way to this unknown destination that only Jin knew. He felt kinda weird because they were hauling the bug freaks around like as if they were carrying garbage, but no one seemed to care. There were a couple stares here in there but otherwise, people stood out of their way.

Spoiler

Traveling through the crowded walkways, most people avoided their path due to their hideous cargo. By the time they reached a little obscure tavern tucked away in a dark corner, the man at the door eyed Jin'ichi suspiciously.

<i></i>​

They had arrived at some seedy bar, or club. The sounds of broken glass, laughter and the occasional coughing filled the air outside the building. It also didn't take long for the rich smell of cigarettes hitting Kagari's nostrils, a smell that he sadly got used to over the timeframe of his stay in Grand Palais' beautiful and peaceful apartments. There was a man outside the doorway, eyeing them up. They did look out of place, a grown man hauling two deadly monsters, and a young boy with glasses following him. If anything, you couldn't help but be suspicious. Jin'ichi approached the obvious bouncer and flahsed his headband.

Spoiler

"Chill out, I'm meeting the Kazekage here." With his free hand, Jin'ichi would pull up and show the forehead protector around his neck. The Sungakure emblem was spotless, and the metal comprising its plate immaculate. His was brand new, anyone could see that.

<i></i>​

"Yeah sure." Kagari waited as Jin proceeded to take his headband out and show the bouncer. Then the sudden realization of who Jin was meeting here hit him. "Wait...What?!" Kagari turned to find Jin but had been let in and started walking inside and procecded to follow. The bouncer grunted and eyed the boy but let him pass, he probably didn't want to deal with this mess right now. 'He's meeting the Kazekage...inside this seedy bar.' Kagari was dumbfounded that someone as important as the sole leader of the village was meeting them in one of the bars in Grand Palais. If anything, he thought they would have probably met him somewhere in the upper districts; like the desert crown, not a seedy drinking hole. He looked around the quite empty bar; there wern't to many people drinking. It was most likely that it was barely even noon, although Kagari knew some people who drank 24 hours a day. The patrons in the bar looked at them with different expressions; some with confussion, annoynance, or didn't even care. They made their way across the bar with no hassle as the patrons continued back into their drinking, Jin and Kagari found an empty table in the corner away from the guise of the others and sat on the wooden chairs.

Spoiler

They'd find a table and he'd set the two bodies down, taking the seat closest to them. He'd lean back into his seat, wiping his hands off on his jeans and stretching his arms out. As an attractive young waitress scantily clad began to approached their table from across the floor, Jin'ichi craned his neck in Kagari's direction if the boy had kept up this far. "Kid, you drink?" What a question... More likely than not he didn't think the youth a drinker, but that didn't mean the boy might not have been one to indulge an impulse or try his luck. Then again, having mentioned that they'd be meeting the Kazekage, maybe the child wouldn't want to look bad in front of his superiors?

<i></i>​

"I'm thirteen." Kagari answered with a deadpanned expression. He did not like bars, and most of all he did not like alcohol. It wasn't that he didn't like the taste or the smell, it was because of how some people get when they drink alcohol. He had a bitter thought, but quickly squashed it as most likely this was Jin's way of being polite. "No, I don't. But if they have water; I'd really like some." Kagari answered again, scooting his chair back away from the critters on the table, staring at them intently. His attention was drawn to an individual that was approaching them; a man who looked more out of place than they were. He drew a chair and sat down in front of them, introducing himself politely.

Spoiler

"Very charming place you have here." Nishiro said to the two as he sat down, a fake smile plastered on his face. "I do hope the drink here is good, I am dreadfully thirsty." he said to them, making small talk. The man gave an impression of pleasantness but if you were to look close enough there would definitely be a somewhat...uncomfortable aura emanating from Nishiro.
"So tell me." Nishiro said leaning forward towards Jin "Are you the man the Kazekage called." Nishiro knew he could've very easily waited for Sousuke, but had decided the discovery would be more fun. He waited patiently for the other man's response.

<i></i>​

This man had an aura around him that Kagari wasn't used to. He gave off the impression of someone you'd meet that was a gentlemen, someone who was very smooth, delicate, and cool. Who was this guy? Kagari kept quiet and waited for Jin's response. He kept in mind to not embarass himself and let Jin do the talking from now on until asked.

Spoiler

OOC: I guess the post order will be Jin-Nishiro-Me-Kazekage? Or something else?

WC: 1067 Words
Marked for Training

 

[Takahashi Aki]

The bouncer and Sousuke stared at each other for a long time. The bouncer was a thuggish man of a bit too much weight. Yes. He was muscled and a very dangerous looking man, but he didn't quite have the brains to figure out what he was staring at. The green armoured Steward merely stared back at the man. Eventually after a few head scratches, a few glances back and forth, and the realization of trying to punch spiked armour was not a healthy concept was in mind, the thuggish man allowed Sousuke to pass. "We don't serve your kind her, ya crazy puppet." He called out to Sousuke. The Steward stopped mid stride turned around and stared hard at the bouncer through the visor.

"You idiot. That's the Steward. Say one thing again, and Imma fire your ass."<i></i> The bartender called out as he saw who walked in. The bartender came right up and shook his head apologetically to the Steward. "Teo is uhm ... not the sharpest knife in the drawer. He does the heavy lifting so ... yeah. I-I... didn't expect you to show up here in my bar. I know you usually like your home and stuffs, so uh... I-I'm not in trouble am I? I swore them rats, they've been handled properly. I did what you told me to, good advice that there."<i></i> The bartender seemed quite nervous indeed. Considering back a month ago the Steward showed up with a giant toad and had a motel ripped up due to some nasty bloke in town at Expectations.

"Social visit."<i></i> Sousuke answered. "My cousin, he is at the table with the tied up..."<i></i> Sousuke's eyes lit up like a christmas tree. The bartender looked mortified as he had just realized what was brought in. His jaw dropped, "No it's fine. I'm not going to close you down."<i></i> Sousuke reassured him with an awkward shoulder pat. The bar tender smiled weakly. Loots, or so was his nickname by many, had owed a few favors to the Steward. Not the nasty dirty sort. Sousuke had given him sound business advice that at first he didn't listen to, but he regretted not doing so. If he had listened, this establishment would have been in the Diamond District by now. At this point he took the Steward's word as gospel.

Sousuke made his way over to the table, he did tell Loots to send someone over later for an order once things were on board. "I gave Loots the recipe a while back for an excellent B42. Chemistry is a very important thing for drinks. I don't drink often, but the science of mixing drinks is not beyond me, considering I have had to make an antidote for poisoned drinks from time to time."<i></i> Sousuke narrated as he took a seat. His eyes never leaving the bug bodies. "Nishiro my cousin Jin'ichi, Nishiro meet Kagari of the house Toshiwakai... unto which I say unto you greetings."<i></i> He spoke now directly to the young one. The Steward had a good knowledge of the who is who of the village, but he had not quite had the chance to meet everyone yet. "This would be an excellent belated birthday gift... but I suspect your unconscious friends are not for my immediate examination are they? I believe you will have a most fascinating story to tell me, the two of you."<i></i> He spoke neutrally.

An older woman made her way to the table. The woman had an eyepatch on, military coat, with the ever present missing arm. She had long purple hair mixed with strands of grey. The woman sneered at the company. "I swear. If you are here to ruin my evening I will kill you."<i></i> The woman spoke. Sousuke turned and looked up. The veteran woman looked furious with him.

"Gentlemen. My grandmother. Masashi Mako. Who thinks I am here to ruin her night."<i></i> The veteran looked at all three of the men and refused to acknowledge the bug bodies. She drank from her bottle of beer and continued to frown at the situation ever present.

 

[Takahashi]

Kagari's deadpan stare would be met by the unreadable poker-face held by Jin'ichi. He'd merely give a modest frown and a petty shrug at the boy's age. How young was thirteen by their cultural standards? Jin'ichi himself had already seen and experienced much by that time in his life, his mother had tried to shelter him from the world but failed. The rebellious spirit that drove him forward had already begun flourishing. Ebony eyes took the time to analyze the specimen before him, the child was a complete stranger and yet the two were comrades. Although Kagari may not have had a taste for alcohol, he knew earlier than Jin'ichi what he wanted to do with his life. Once the boy realized the situation was an official matter, he acted and proved himself despite trepidation. "Water's a good choice." He admittedly casually.

Maintaining his relaxed and near reclined position, Jin'ichi shifted his abyssal gaze from Kagari to the approaching form. That form belonged to a tall and slender looking gentleman, sporting a suit and tie along with mismatched eyes. With apparently little regard for the preferences of the two already sitting, the silver-headed enigma joined their table. The first sentence cast towards Jin'ichi would be met with a swift rebuttal. "Ain't my place... Just my table." Shifting back into his seat a little more, he'd raise his legs and let his heels rest atop the table. Without looking at Kagari, he could tell the boy didn't know who the man was either. Leaning in the suited man's direction and raising a hand to the side of his own face as though whispering he spoke clearly instead "A drink's a drink man. If you're thirsty you should probably have what the kid's havin'. Water." Though he seemed as calm as ever, there was clearly an unseen wedge between Jin'ichi and this new acquaintance. One had a posh air about them, and the other seemed to spit upon everything considered civil and proper.

His arm dropped and he let his head hang back, staring lazily towards the ceiling. It was when mentioned the Kazekage that Jin'ichi ended up laughing for a moment. From the corner of his eyes he would look towards the stranger and frown before shrugging. "Probably? Probably not. I can't remember. My memory's no good, like how I can't remember asking you to join us. I just don't know how that happened... Guess I'm just absent-minded."</COLOR><i></i> A skeptical nature kept him wary of complying with the man's requests or aligning with his interests. Unlike Kagari, Jin'ichi was an old dog and could practically smell others of his kind. This man with the mismatched eyes was indeed another old dog...

Before the two could throw words much longer, the sound of heavy metal caught the Takahashi descendant's ears. Through the small crowd he witnessed his cousin's entrance, his eyes more focused on the armor in a dull curiosity than on Sousuke's face. The bartender had some choice words for the bouncer and a mouthful of apologies for the Takahashi leader. As usual, Sousuke waved of the little things and eventually made his way over to the table where now four gathered. Looking passed his cousin, Jin'ichi noticed the attractive waitress from earlier being scolded by a senior employ near the back. With a small sigh he accepted the fact his order wouldn't be taken as quickly as he'd have liked. Instead of silence and awkward positioning, Sousuke came with conversation on the tongue and talk of chemistry.

Regardless of how their last meeting went, it was pleasant to see his cousin up and in good health. "You gotta' point there, a brewery ain't much more than a big lab for alcoholic potions." He always had a way of simplifying things to less than grand words. There was no unseen friction in the air between the two Takahashi, as they both seemed to have forgiving natures. Sousuke took a seat and introduced the man who had failed to introduce himself, and showed his own familiarity with Kagari's family. The name Toshiwakai would be stored in memory for a later date, but the more present curiosity at hand would be- "Nishiro was it? You might be well dressed, but your manners are terrible."<i></i> How would it feel to be told such a thing by such an uncouth young man? Only Nishiro would know at that point. Sousuke finally addressed the creatures captured, but just as Jin'ichi opened his mouth to speak a woman's voice cut him off.

The voice spoke with a bitter assertiveness that Jin'ichi couldn't help but notice. Silently scanning her form from his slouched position, he noticed the missing arm and sparse grey strands. The woman's body was fit and firm, showing a warrior's physique and appearing to be no more than middle-aged. A little smirk began to form on his lips, but turned into a frowning grimace as Sousuke introduced her. "Your wha-? I mean..."<i></i> Clearing his throat and sitting up more properly, he slowly removed his feet from the table. "Any way, these little bastards are some of the weird creatures popping up down here lately. I never got the chance to tell you at the hospital, but there was an attack in the Red Lights. I'm sure you've probably read up on it by now, a woman was pretty much eaten alive and I barely managed to fight the thing off. My issue is that these things don't seem like they're just a natural part of the ecosystem down here or anythin' like that. I couldn't find record of anything like what we've been seeing in any bestiary or enyclopedia. Before I injured the one that attacked in the Red Lights, it mentioned my father by name."<i></i> With a pause, he'd let that settle in for a moment.

<COLOR color="red">"These little buggers here aren't nearly as sentient as the one I fought before... Still, if we can get them in a lab and run some tests we might be able to tell what they are or how they're being controlled. They kinda look like the one I fought too, amorphous in nature... These guys split and multiplied while the other transformed its limbs into bladed weaponry. I doubt that's the limit to its capabilities though." While he wasn't the best operative, he was an operative indeed. Most never really saw him focused and taking business seriously, but there was a time and a place for everything. Reaching into his jacket pocket he plucked forth a cigarette and placed it between his lips as he prepared to get down to business. It was time for the men to talk at the table.

 

[Miroku Riyota]

"If I wanted water, I would go to a stream, I came to the Tavern because I wanted Alcohol." Nishiro smirked. Turning his head to Kagari he faked a warm smile "I have a son, he's probably around your age. Riyota, perhaps you've met him?" after he finished talking he grabbed the attention of a waitress and ordered a drink. "If anyone else wants anything now is the time to ask." after they informed him whether they wanted a drink or not he would send the Waitress away.

When Sousuke eventually came to sit down Nishiro looked from Jin to him, and back again, almost like a child trying to keep track of a conversation between two people, he smirked calmly once again as the pair exchanged words. "Ah there you are, unfortunately I just sent the waitress off, I can probably get her back if you want something." Nishiro said to the other man, feigning politeness. As the two males across from him were introduced he nodded to them respectively. Speaking to the boy again he leaned forward ever so slightly. "Kagari was it? That's a good, strong name. I'm sure you have had quite a few adventures." he smiled, returning his attention to the man opposite him, who had commented on his manners.

"Yes...you make a very good point there, Jin'ichi right? I would explain the reason for my lack of manners, but too be perfectly blunt...and to help put it in your words. 'I simply can't be fucked too." he winked fiendishly. As his drink was set down and an older Woman arrived.

Nishiro nodded along as Sousuke explained who the Woman was "It is funny how quickly assumptions can be made." he chuckled, picking up his own drink and taking a sip. Turning back to the two opposite, allowing the situation with Mako to turn whichever direction it decided. He listened carefully to the report from Jin before deciding to add to it with a comment of his own. "You don't suppose it could be related to that deceased youth I found outside the village? In a cave somewhere..." he let the words hang for a few seconds. "Very young, roughly Kagari's age, hmm...white hair...very pale skin, anyone know anything about that?" he asked the others around the table. Taking a small drag of his drink. Waiting for someone to say something.

[I really hope this made sense. I'm not very well right now so this may be incoherent as all hell.]
MFT 396

 

[Toshiwakai Kagari]

All of a sudden their small table with two dangerous bug like monsters was starting to become crowded. The white haired man, who sat presumptuously at their table seemed to know them, or at least tried to make an introduction. He was a sly fellow, smiling in what felt like an awkward situation. Jin was quiet, trying to deduce who this guy was. The mysterious gentlemen did reveal some personal details, that he had a son; he was about the same age of Kagari. Riyota was his son's name, the name was unfamiliar to Kagari. There were plenty of kids in the academy, most of them younger than Kagari. He shook his head and responded to the gentlemen, "No. I've never met your son. He might be in a different class..."

He could tell the man was just trying to make conversation, but Kagari didn't say anything after that, not even introduce his own name. Kagari was cautious of the man, because if Jin didn't know him, than he was a mysterious figure. He did wonder if he had seen the man's kid before, it's not everyday you see a kid with white hair in the academy. Especially here in Suna where it seems that red is the dominant hair color. The man was confident, effortlessly calling the waitress to take their order despite her sitting on the lap of one of the more burlier men in the bar. She sauntered over, looking a bit annoyed. She looked at the three of them, sighed and asked . "Whad'ya want?" Kagari gulped and spoke up first, "Water please."

"I didn't ask ya. What did you two want?" Kagari he winced visibily at her tone, he could obviously tell that he wasn't wanted here; at least by the waitress.

"A drink's a drink man. If you're thirsty you should probably have what the kid's havin'. Water." Jin replied to the waitress. She then looked at the mysterious gentlemen and shook his head, not wanting to order a drink. "Alright, two waters. Coming up." She answered in an unenthusiastic tone. She then made her way to the kitchen when the man that she was giving "special attention" to spoke up. "Hey! My lap's missin you baby!"

"Oh yeah? Why don't you get one of your friends to help out?" It made the group of men laugh, and the men went back into their own small talk. "Well, she seems nice...doesn't she?" Kagari mused sarcastically, although he quickly placed a hand over his mouth. Sometimes his sarcastic wit got the better of him.

All the noise stopped at the bar and everyone's attention was drawn to the front where a small argument could be heard. Kagari stood up from his chair, and tried to get a view what was causing the commotion. It riled up the bartender apparently as he tried to appease a man who was probably the person at the center of the attention. Kagari could see that the bartender was nervous, begging for his establishment to be not closed down. "I bet if you looked in the bathrooms, this place would be closed down faster than you can say 'quarantine'." Kagari shuddered a bit at the thought of taking one step inside one of the "latrines". He could practically see the stench coming from the restroom.

The man calmed the owner down and proceeded to their table. Now that Kagari could see the man up close, he was armored from head to know. He looked more like an elite guardman? Was he a messenger for the Kazekage? Or one of his bodyguards? Jin seemed to know the man as they-Wait, was he the kazekage? Kagari looked towards Jin for a confirmation, but he was just straight faced as usual; making small talk with the armored man. Although the way he spoke confirmed that he indeed was the Kazekage. He spoke with confidence, and his voice could be clearly heard amongst the noise in the bar. Also, he knew everyone in the table; and if you know everyone without even asking, you're probably well informed or in charge. He did introduce the white haired man; his name was Nishiro apparently. Jin was also the man's cousin, although the two were completely different in personality.

Although what made Kagari more surprised was that he knew who he was. Kagari felt more nervous and anxious than any moment of his life; he could see that the armored-steward was looking directly at him. What was worse was that you couldn't see any expression on the Kazekage's face, only a mask. He stopped himself from gaping and got up and bowed appropriately. "It's, nice to meet you kazekage-sama. I'll be honest, I wouldn't think you'd know a person like me or my family." Kagari said as he did his best just to look at the kazekage in the...visor? Kagari made another short bow and sat down, breathing again now that he got a short introduction out of the way.

One more person made their way to the table, a woman who looked more like a pirate the more Kagari thought, obviously detested the current situation. She obviously hated being here, and hated whoever brought her here as she just angrily stared at the armored Kazekage. The kazekage introduced her as his grandmother, which was a bit odd for Kagari. He was surprised, for a grandmother she didn't look that aged. Only the gray hairs among her purple were the only inclination to her age. She eyed the three of them, apathetic to the whole situation and took a swig from her beer bottle.

Jin at this point finally spoke up as the introductions ended. He seemed relaxed and told the story of what happened earlier with the bug-freaks, seemingly acting casually amongst the small crowd what was now their table. Jin casually told the story of his previous encounters with them, it seemed that the encounter at the bridge wasn't his first, and most likely won't be his last. Kagari was alarmed to hear that some of the beasts were sentient and that one even talked! Although the more and more Kagari thought about it, he could see that the monsters were at least somewhat intelligent. 'They did use some tactics during the fight, although it could have been instinct rather than a logical process." If there are more of these things lurking around Grand Palais, it could be trouble...' Kagari was deep in thought, not paying attention to the conversation as snapped back to reality.

JIn finished up, talking about their short encounter at the bridge. He ended the conversation with a ever cliche cool guy move; putting a cigarette in his mouth and lighting it. Kagari nodded in confirmation at Jin's short report to the kazekage, and spoke up. "These things popped up out of nowhere and caused a small tremor when the burrowed out of the ground below Palais Park Bridge. When the split into four, each of them divided their attention rather than attack the nearest target. They were still pretty animalistic though, they even gnawed at each other when two of the four were burning thanks to Jin's lighter." Kagari took a short breather, gathering a couple more thoughts before speaking up again. "Even though they're slightly intelligent, you can still use their own instincts against them. I was able to knock out one using it's own strength against it, and they're pretty weak against fire. Their shells are tough though, they're about as solid as a rock."

Spoiler

(OOC: Sorry for the wait. Hopefully you'll be able to get through the long post.)
WC: 1240
Marked For Training

 

[Takahashi Aki]

Sousuke listened to Jin'ichi about the details of what had happened in the Red Light District, "No. There is no log of such creatures in the bestiary."</B><i></i> He admitted. Sousuke exchanged glances with his grandmother at the mention of cannibalism. Sousuke raised eyebrow at the mention of Jin'ichi's father. That made this thing even more curious. "So. The means to best them is limited then. Their breeding then is something most ... troubling then."<i></i> Sousuke sat back into his chair, he reached up and removed his helmet. He placed the green helmet on the table. His eyes shifted skyward. His thoughts were interrupted by Nishiro who spoke of another murder, "Details of the deceased would be most appreciated."<i></i> He requested. There were lines to be drawn. Granted there may have been some form of rot, but certain details could not be overlooked.

The growing boisterous nature of the room was causing Sousuke to lose focus. It was most annoying. Sousuke was in his mind palace trying to figure out what mental filing room to be in. "Stew---"<i></i> Sousuke almost corrected Kagari, but he stopped. He looked at his cousin, he nodded his head. "Ah. Right. I have been trying to become acquainted with the use of the title Kazekage, instead of Steward."<i></i> Katuso was still missing, and Sousuke was very much trying to make better of the situation entirely. A Steward without a King, and the transition was a most difficult one. "I wouldn't be a very good leader if I didn't know my people would I? If anything it is nice to finally meet you."<i></i> A small smile appeared on Sousuke's face. The Steward would be most surprised as he found a series of drinks being brought to the table. A series of nicer high classed drinks, including a Shirley Temple for Kagari. The Steward reached forward and took the beer glass and poured himself a beer. He did the same for his cousin, and for Nishiro. Curiously the Steward would yet to partake of the drink. Mako shook her head at the gesture. This was something of a habit of his. Sousuke would push the drink towards Kagari, "Shirley Temple. A drink named after a famous actress across the world. Most appropriate for a youth, although some would argue it is a woman's drink, but I have seen my nobles drink seemingly apparent female drinks."<i></i>

"It is not unusual for the Grand Palais to be sort of thing. I have been here numerous times to clean up the streets from those of the criminally insane mental makeup, along with several other ... super natural situations."<i></i> Sousuke's expression soured a bit.

"He hates it when he fights something that is considered mystic. He's a man of science."<i></i> Mako interjected as she pulled a chair over to the table. The veteran grabbed her beer and drained it. She waved one of the waitresses over, "Another beer, and if I'm kept waiting you're going to hear it in droves bitches."<i></i> Sousuke face palmed at his grandmother's request and most rude nature.

Sousuke listened to Kagari speak about their weaknesses. He repeated the last bit again, curiously in the same voice and tone the youth had. "Even though they're slightly intelligent, you can still use their own instincts against them. I was able to knock out one using it's own strength against it, and they're pretty weak against fire. Their shells are tough though, they're about as solid as a rock." He repeated word for word. The Steward tapped the table. He got up from the table and approached them. He held out his hand and opened his palm. A single orange plasma beat fired out of the palm and began cutting a segment of the carapace off. If the creature were to awake, the creature would find itself being shot in the head by the same plasma beam but this time with a far more concentrated blast. Risky? Maybe. Plasma was a far more powerful version of fire, intermixed with lightning for those who knew the science. Sousuke would cut off a shoulder piece and hold it in his hands as he returned back to the table poking and prodding at it. At one point he would knock it with his fist. <B>"Mutated."<i></i> He began, "Cannibalism and a weakness to fire would lead me to believe that his is a Wendigo. Northern folk lore entity, usually a curse upon a land and those who resort to cannibalism in that territory gain monstrous strength but a never ending desire for flesh. If true, then ... these things are not native. I am abhorrent to think that this is the possibility. Nishiro where was that cave exactly?"<i></i>

 

[Takahashi]

Things had gone from a small gathering to an actual party of five in no time. The amount of chatter that took place within a few short moments caused Jin'ichi to lean forward. Placing his hand in his palm and closing his eyes, he rolled the unlit cigarette between his lips as he listened to the others talk. Kagari gave a full debriefing while Nishiro spoke like a man who knew what he ought not. The boy he described sounded familiar, but perhaps it was another. It was becoming clear to him that albinism was something common among the diminishing peoples of Kaze no Kuni. Nishiro himself had hair lacking in color or volume, as well as a lithe and fragile looking form.The boy Jin'ichi had slain hadn't been left in any cave... What had been left of him had been ripped and torn in brutal combat with a sharp blade, maiming the future corpse. Rolling his eyes and finally lifting his head as Sousuke performed a technique on one of the sedated beasts.

There was a flash as concentrated laser energy pierced the carapace, briefly waking the creature so it gave one last cry before passing on. "Nishiro... If you're gunna' cuss, at least do it properly. Will ya?" Shaking his head as if in disbelief he'd explain. "It's 'I just can't be fucked.' 'Cause it sounds stupid when you add the 'too' at the end. If foul language was about proper grammar and etiquette I'd have cleaned up my fuckin' act a long time ago." He'd point to his own head, and make a little circling motion around his own temple. "I talk like I do 'cause it's easy. You're tryin' way too hard. Maybe you do need a beer." This was why he kept his mouth shut, because the tendency for him to make scathing remarks was far too high. Chuckling to himself and then looking to Sousuke who no longer wore a helmet he'd get back on topic. "Wendigo... Well, that does fall in line with cannibalism.. " A thoughtful expression took over as he seemed to forget his altercation with Nishiro.

"It's too hot for that shit around here though. Unless they're some sort of powered up version, or... Well mutated. The one I fought the other day wasn't on all fours like these, he was way more humanoid. When I stabbed him in the neck, the carapace liquefied and moved like it had a life of its own. Still, it felt the pain of its host. I saw a red-headed man when the liquid covering shifted, probably someone that escaped the Obsidian Palace during the riots. A heard a lot of them got out, and it would explain how he knew my shit-for-brains father. I think the virus is symbiotic, mutating the cells of whatever creatures come into contact with it. It wouldn't be surprising if the host gets more hungry than usual as they start eating for two. This would explain the cannibalism, since they'd be so hungry they wouldn't care what they eat anymore so long as they can sustain themselves."<i></i> He decided to get up, carefully making his way around the table and giving Sousuke a pat on the armored shoulder. "They're not native, but I'll do some more work on figuring out what's going on. As for that kid-"<i></i> With a pause he would point a thumb over in Kagari's direction. "He's a student, but with how he handled himself today he should be a Genin. Consider givin' him a promotion or somethin', he coulda' died out there earlier."<i></i>

Taking a few more steps away from the table and narrowly dodging a waitress, he turned back to face the group. With a patch covering his left eye and a mischievous look covering the rest of his face he shrugged. "What's with you and all the fops Sousuke? They're bad company. Get rid of him." He clearly was talking about Nishiro, and if it wasn't he would be when he turned to look at the senior Shinobi and brushed his own knuckled against his own nose. "I've got more work to do, I was gunna' bring that shit to ya' but since you're here I think you got it covered. Right?"<i></i> Spinning around on his heel, he'd snatch a full mug of beer from the tray one waitress carried. With his other hand he'd produce a few bills and slip them into her pocket. At first she seemed offended, then smiled, while Jin'ichi merely rolled his eyes and walked off chugging the brew. He was lost in the small crowd, but the sounds of the large doors swinging open and shut announced his inevitable exist. He never did tarry long among others, but Sousuke wasn't they type to pry. After all, he hadn't even bothered to ask about the eye-patch. He knew that they were all going through their own trials, and none seemed to like relying on anyone else.

[Topic Left]​

WC: 0,830
Marked for training.
Sorry for the lackluster post and swift exit, but I'm trying not to bite off more than I can chew. Activity-wise that is, I wouldn't want to hold things up much longer. I'm not going inactive at all, but I think I'll stick to smaller settings for just a bit longer. It seems fitting for my character to be in and out as it is though to be honest.

 

[Miroku Riyota]

"Cursing is an art that takes many forms Jin'ichi. If I wish to add some words to the end of my sentence to which I added a curse, that is my business." the man spoke to the other, a sly smile still plastered on his face. Nishiro took a sip of his drink as Sousuke examined the slain beast. "I would have to agree with the Wendigo business, however to my knowledge they don't usually hang around deserts...Perhaps these are not 'natural' if you can even call them that...possibly even man-made?" Nishiro suggested to the theory. Then as he heard Jin's theory about a possible escapee from the obsidian palace his eyes darted down ever so slightly before he continued with the issue he had brought up earlier.

"I must say it was rather hard to identify the young man. There wasn't much left of him...This new issue of the Wendigo's makes me think they may have had some involvement, the question is, do they usually it the already deceased? Because one thing I know is, the boy was first mutilated by a blade, then there were sure signs the corpse had been moved from the open, before it was ravaged further. It was quite a horrific sight in fact." The man finished as he took another sip of his drink.

His eyes followed Jin as he got up from the table. "Have I offended you sir? If so, I'm glad...because that means I now know quite a bit about you. To your good fortune, I will not be hanging around these fine fellows much longer. One favour if I may ask? he called out as Jin opened the door. "If you see my son...Brown Hair, Green eyes...Quite pale unless he decided to get a tan. I would appreciate it if you let me know." Nishiro smiled as Jin left and he took yet another small sip of his drink.

His eyes moved to Sousuke and then to Kagari. "So...anything more anyone wants to discuss?" he asked.

MFT 337

 

[Toshiwakai Kagari]

HIs attention focused on now the waitress walking to the table with a tray full of drinks. As she passed the various drinks around, she got to Kagari last and put down a drink that was obviously not water. "Uhh...Thanks?" Kagari said confusingly, he had ordered a water. The Kazekage pushed the drink to him, beckoning him to take a sip. A "Shirley Temple" he called the drink, as he described the weird reputation. To Kagari, the fact that the drink had this bad reputation seemed confusing. If people like the drink, then what's wrong with that? Kagari raised an eyebrow at the drink and sniffed it, being weirdly cautious as if it was containing poison. He could smell that it was not alcohol, and proceeded to take a sip. It tasted very sweet, similar to a lemonade or a lime soda. Kagari smiled and continued drinking, a little confused why he wasn't given a water like he ordered, but didn't complain to much because the alternative is actually pretty good. He looked over to the owner and could see he was still visibly sweating at the presence of the armored Kazekage, trying to hide that he was closely observing the table.

After describing the short battle with the bug-freaks, Kagari tried to relax a little. He could see that despite the mask, the Kazekage was deep in thought as he tapped his fingers in a quick rythym. He descirbed the creatures that Jin and Kagari fought were "Wendigos" or at least mutated versions of the Wendigos. They were canibalistic creatures, another great attribute to add to the already terrifying creatures. He was thankful to hear that these creatures were not native, although it was still troubling because they were coming from somewhere or something. Kagari thought for a second and asked, "If they aren't native, who brought them here?" Someone must have impored these creatures, but for what purpose? Also, another troubling thought popped up in Kagari's head: "There's a nest of them....isn't there? And if the things we fought were drones, than there's a queen."

The conversation picked up quickly after Kagari's words, as the Kazekage, Jin, and Nishiro were all comparing notes on the creatures. Kagari listened in closely on the converstation, keeping quiet and very curious. Nishiro talked about the remains of a man who may have encountered with a similar creature, and how he had yet to be identified. Jin, seemed to have some knowledge on wendigo's, but until the three sitting here actually found the source of the problem; they weren't going to get anywhere. Jin seemed to be thinking the same thoughts as Kagari, as he got up and looked to be ready to leave. He walked over to the kazekage, patted him on the shoulder and told the table that he was going to do some more field work. But before he left, his next words surprised Kagari. He pointed a thumb at Kagari, without even saying his name: "He's a student, but with how he handled himself today he should be a Genin. Consider givin' him a promotion or somethin', he coulda' died out there earlier." 'Huh, I guess that's probably the closest thing to a compliment he'll ever give me.' Kagari mused. He continued to walk torwards the exit, and "subtly" told the Kazekage to get rid of Nishirio. If it wasn't obvious now, there was animosity between Jin and Nishiro. And in Jin like fashion, he was gone with a beer in hand; quick as he appeared and quick as he left.

Kagari wasn't sure if he should have followed the man, or if he should leave with the Kazekage; the situation because more awkward if he continued to stay. Nishiro, breaking the silence and politely asked if there was anything more to dicuss. "Not really...I don't have any expeirence with these things other than today. But what are you going to do with the bugs?" Kagari asked the kazekage.

Spoiler

MFT
WC: 664