The Gem to Greed [SMM]

[Uchiha Takeshi]

The wagon trailed into the dark of the night, it was carrying the most precious of all cargo a jewel that had been passing through the villages under heavy guard, it was a payment for services rendered towards the village in the aid of causing issues for the village. In this the ANBU had seen special interest in this objective and it had seemed to have been the cause of issues. It had caused a few parties to come into the village and attempt to make problems for the village in the future this could be problematic and need a solution.

With word of what was taking place the orders had come in; the instructions had been given and it seemed that one man would now be going to take this jewel from the travelling caravan and repurposing it to aid the village of leaf. But for now, the priority would be to acquire this gem that was being carried across the lands, it was skirting the boarder and that meant that it had a purpose and a destination. During the night as, the updated information came Yukio would hear a knock on the door of the place he called home, though as small as it was he would find a letter inside his door that simply read.

Spoiler

Yukio,

The caravan travelling along the road has shipment that had been deemed vital to this village, as an ANBU you have been assigned this task by priority command to go and acquire this for the personal use of the village. Your mission begins now, pack your belongings and hunt down the caravan the last known location of this was outside of the small town on the boarder. IT was moving in a west direction and was under heavy guard. Expect resistance for this mission but it is of the upmost importance that you managed to acquire this gem.

Signed:
ANBU Command

This note was the only thing Yukio would find, that and when he opened the door the welcoming sight of the night, the pitch black that surrounded the village it was easy to see that this was not meant to be an easy task if he was assigned it during this time. It was when the night was to be used as an advantage and the message clearly said that it was one of the upmost importance, it clearly was a pressing issue.

Birds chirped slightly but most of the people by now where asleep. Some noises and general hustle and bustle of a night drinking could be heard. It seemed that the people that were still out were too busy focusing on their drink to even noticed the situation that had been taking place. The shadows that moved in the dark and the whispers that spread throughout the night like tendrils. IT was clear that Yukio would have to get used to these sounds it was where the branch worked. Where he would be working now and his fate that he had signed up to.

……………………………………………………………………

In the distance the caravan continued to move, though the pace was slow the set up for the protection of this was unbelievable, it seemed that they had the opportunity to make sure that this was delivered, the letters and documents inside were well protected as on each side of the caravan stood a fully trained member of the missing shinobi who had been tasked with protecting this precious cargo for the travel. Their pay depended on its safe arrival and they would not so easily let up on receiving their rewards that they had been offered.

From the outside of this four-man team stood twenty guards, armoured and carrying spears it was clear that they had the outer perimeter secured in that split second their purpose was to make sure that anyone trying to slip through the lines would be detected in a split second and of course it would be alerted to the inner group who would investigate, it seemed that it was now a warning signal. Of course, it had an issue but that would be something that could be found out later, as they walked keeping lanterns light to keep the area showing up. Seeing everything that was available to them and everything that was around the area.

“I guess we don’t have long, we hit the half way point a mile back, whatever this cargo is we are close to making sure that we are getting paid, I cannot remember the last time I earned this kind of money to be honest. The amount they are paying us is a small fortune and its just a walk through the fields to be honest.”

It seemed that the squad leader was speaking through headset all their conversations were kept this way so that everyone would be able to speak without alerting the world to their presences, though how much of that was just a safety measure was one thing, it seemed that they were all fully prepared and fully trained it seemed that this would not be something to be taken lightly with each code word, checking in with the perimeter guards and their look outs the group continued to travel onwards threw the fire country and just trying to avoid the outskirts. It was clear that they avoided all the major towns on the route and bypassed checkpoints with ease.

“I know that feeling, it shouldn’t be too long until we are at the destination, though I can remember the first time we did a mission like this. When we still belong to a village a place to call our own and a home to have fun with. Those days are gone now we must do these tasks to simply survive and life on the money that is supplied”

It seemed that the silence that followed rang true for a few of them, knowing full well that they had come from nothing to now having to maintain the hard work that they were doing tonight.

[TWC: 10007/5000]

 

[Shirai Sadao]

Yukio read the note left for him as he scratched his chin, it was a new type of mission for him but one he welcomed with open arms as he took his combat gloves attaching them to himself as he pondered the best way to go around taking what the branch wanted. There were many methods of doing so however the direct approach was almost out of the question.

He had confidence in his skills, being trained by a Sennin and a captain he had been honed like a fine blade however with the guard that was escorting said caravan it was not going to be something he could accomplish directly without great injury. As he wondered he recalled his previous mission set to him by the branch. For all the assassins plan had failed the steps taken to accomplish it had been logical and calculated.

Walking out of the village gates he nodded to the guards who watched a sign of respect for their duty and ever watchful eyes that kept the village so safe.

“A mission for the ANBU calls me beyond the gates and so I shall depart”

He showed whatever information was required before making haste to the border, it would take time that much he knew and the distance to travel was great. He travelled lightly only his standard gear on his person for haste was required in these circumstances.

Taking a short respite to ensure he was at peak fighting form before his contact with the caravan he sat in a tree, letting his eyes gaze to the horizon. He could not see it the same as any other could ever again a price he paid for his power for the sight of the Byakugan robbed he eyes of colour.

As he thought further he brought his hands together making a few mock hand seals, a habit he had developed during his time in the academy as to ensure he could remember what he needed to do. Though it was more of a relaxing motion for all he did not believe himself to be nervous before new missions the risk was still there that distraction would take hold at a vital moment while his mind wandered something the Hyuuga would not tolerate.

“The first steps will always be the most important, distraction enough to ensure they will not know my true intentions towards what they carry.”

Standing back up he moved with the same haste and vigour as he had in any other mission, the more time given to prepare the easier he could make it to outsmart and outmanoeuvre the opposition before they had a chance to react. As his eyes caught a glimpse of his target he took a moment to pause.

Bringing his hands together a clone formed next to him, something he always made sure to do before engagement as a backup plan was always required should anything not go as planned. Nodding to the clone it jumped down from the perch they had been sitting on making the signs to perform the transformation jutsu turning itself into a young woman.

She was a beauty to say the least long flowing hazel hair with striking green eyes through the clothing created was ragged and torn as she stumbled out before the caravan from the brush giving a weak wave to them as they approached.

“Excuse me, I don’t know where I may be, but I require your aid if you would only hear me out.”

Her voice was trembling as was she in the cold of that night her figure clearly not built for long term travel and it could only be assumed from the look of fear in her eyes that something had happened not long ago. Though she seemed oblivious to the caravan guard and its purpose she made no move to get closer, keeping her distance in case they should be of unfavourable nature towards her.

“I was a villager in a small town, but we were attacked by bandits and I was taken from my home before anyone realised, I managed to escape but I know not where I am now. I did not travel far in my younger days and I do not know much of the outside world.”

Yukio on the other hand observed the many guards that were stationed around the caravan his eyes attempting to pick up as many of the guards as they could should he have to make direct contact tightening his gloves around his hands as his breathing became heavy. He had not expected this much protection for all he had been warned about it.

The perimeter was more than well defended those in the centre being the possible ring leaders of this guard though those on the outside may be easier to pick off first and slowly at that. Moving to be closer to a few of them as he brought his fingers to his lips making a whistle to draw their attention to the bush he had hidden himself in.

If it was successful, he could begin moving to pick off the lesser minions one at a time from the shadows slowly but surely making his mission easier and easier as time went on. In position and all plans set he made ready to strike.

[WC: 888/5000]

 

[Uchiha Takeshi]

It seemed that the caravan was instantly at a stop with the arrival, four guards with spears moving forward quickly to stop the women from coming any closer, it seemed that there was a lot more work that had to be done on their outer defences if she was going to be allowed to get this close to say the least. The glistening of the spear tips stopped the woman from coming closer as they allowed themselves to stand there as one of the Ninja that was guarding the caravan allowed himself to stand silent as they let the feet step slowly over.

It seemed that right now they had managed to get themselves into a situation which saw the motion of movement stopped for that split second, as it allowed itself to recover in a tight formation to make sure that every direction was covered with the sudden stop of the convoy. It seemed that Yukio had needed some time to make sure that the situation was under control, as from the top of the convoy appeared one of the Ninja that was escorting the caravan, he allowed himself for a split second to light up the night sky with blue eyes as he scanned around.

He swept around the whole area in that split second, making sure that the whole area was on lock down as it scanned, it seemed that Yukio wasn’t the only one with toys to play with tonight, as they checked the surroundings the lead Ninja continued to walk towards the women who now had four trigger happy men with spears pointing at her in that split second. Knowing full well that this situation would be something that needed to be fixed. As the man walked in front of the spears lowering two of them as he walked past the guards that were holding them.

“Now why would you have got yourselves attacked on this round, unfortunately we would love to help you but in this current situation we are in we are unable to stop and offer you any form of comfort. I would love you hear out the rest of your offer, but you seem our mission is one that is time critical. I can offer you some clothes and that will be all, maybe some food and water but nothing more for this journey you are on, if this is acceptable with you we can get it sorted out right now if you wish?”

The leader waited for the girl to answer as he waited patiently it seemed that him and the four guards would be willing to wait for a reply before deciding their next course of action. The night was taking over still and the sounds of owls in the leaf jungle could be heard echoing out around the place. It seemed the night life always watching and the guards on the outskirt of this convoy continued to stay alert and ready to react to any situation when it came to them.

The guards fanned back out as they looked around in search for any noise or any issue that could have been caused with the new interruption. Their eyes darting around, and the spears lowered down in that split second. They scanned out and did not fear anything that could be lurking. Hearing the words that would be coming from the girl and the boss of this convoy, it seemed everyone was interested in what was going on their but most of the guards continued to walk forward as well at that moment in time. Using this opportunity to try and get a little bit of an idea on what kind of mission they were undertaking.

One of the guards on the outskirts begun hearing noises, at first, he thought he was imagining them, it seemed that the very trees were making some noises towards him. Though he knew that could not be right in this current situation. The guard glanced around to make sure that he wasn’t going insane in that split second. Knowing full well that he probably was hearing things he advanced towards a bush as he glanced around checking every way that he could even looking up. The dense jungle covered up people in that split second.

While Yukio may only be there for a few seconds, but he was completely out of sight of the new guard, undetectable as the spear even grazed the front of the bush lightly. It was clear that he was looking for a reaction to take place and if he would get one or not was a different matter. As he allowed himself to glance back to the caravan ignoring the bush, he put the noise down to him going crazy during that moment in time and decided to turn around to get a quick look at what was happening with the girl. It was clear that the guards on the outside liked to be nosy but even this would have been funny in that current situation.

“I cannot see anything from here boss, looks like the girl is on her own. I could be wrong I will keep looking but all I am getting at the moment is Chakra from all of the guards in the area, I will keep on alert though and update you as soon as I find out anything, or the situation changes you will be the first to know promise.”

The voice cracked over the radio, as the ninja on top of the caravan looked at the situation that would be developing. Yukio seemed to have survived detection at the moment but with the radio updates, the guards being on alert the situation could escalate any second and it wasn’t going to be an easy place that Yukio would find himself in, this mission was for an ANBU and he would have to use all his skill and knowledge that he had been gaining during his personal training to succeed in this one tonight.

[TWC: 2009/5000]

 

[Shirai Sadao]

The women took a few steps back a rather understandable reaction to having spears pointed at them as she raised her hands to show she had no ill intentions towards them as the trembling voice stuttered as she looked to the one moving forward.

“I have no intention to cause you any trouble I only wish to know where I may have ended up at this time”

The lowering of the spears made her somewhat calmer as she listened to what he had to say, the offer was good but more importantly it had drawn some of the guards away however this was the least of the troubles about to make the Hyuuga face distraction.

Remembering it’s position the clone was in it nodded its head at the offer a slight smile crossing it’s face as she took but a single step closer towards them.

“I would appreciate that; your kindness is something I find myself smiling about in these hard times. I did not expect to find someone like yourself out on these roads”

Meanwhile Yukio watched the guard slowly approach the bush a smile crossing his face as each of them moved into their new positions, though it had not all gone as planned he had somewhat hoped the caravan would stop a time longer but opportunity was still there to make a move. At least that was the plan but as his eyes moved across the one who had crawled on top of the caravan he went still.

Those eyes the way they scanned the area was something he knew all too well at his muscles tensed, though how they ended up here was something unknown to him. His story was not something he would have time to find out in these rather tense few moments. Seeing the spear cross through the bush he would move up placing his foot upon it before moving to cover the man’s mouth and drag him into the cover of the night.

Keeping him quiet would be the focal point of this moment avoiding the one who scanned the area from atop the caravan as he moved his arms in one swift movement to snap the man’s neck to bring him into eternal slumber before laying him gently onto the floor allowing him some grace at duty’s end.

After this he brought his hands together making the signs of transformation jutsu himself and taking the form of the one he had just slain taking the spear and whatever else he was unable to copy in that moment before moving back into position with the others. Taking the headset, they had on their person allowing for some intel on the movements they would be making.

He turned it on speaking in the most professional tone he could muster as he made the report to the one on the caravan in the same manner to which he would speak to one of his peers.

“Thought I heard something in the brush, but it appears it was just a fox, though it may be something else we cannot be too sure. It may be beneficial to see if this isn’t a trap laid before us while the hour is late.”

Their reaction to this action would depend on his next move, this was a situation that required a steady hand and patient mind, for if he was discovered the battle that would ensue could risk the damage or loss of the precious cargo within the caravan. Moving to maintain his place in the perimeter he would wait holding the spear by his side.

 

[Uchiha Takeshi]

It seemed to the convoy group that there was still some work that needed to be done, but right now the opportunity had arrived to help someone. With a click of his finger the leader sent the man from the rear guard out to go and get the clothing that was available inside of the caravan, deciding to take pity on the girl as he requested. Grabbing clothing from the back and what was available it was soon clear that they were going to be of some assistance, as the leader of the group continued to stare back at the girl never letting his eyes blink from this position.

“These clothes will get you back up onto your feet, I know for a fact you will find a town that is suitable back there slightly, just keep walking and you will find the place, they will have shelter and be able to find your assistance that you require. Just make sure you hurry up you do not want to be out here during the night, it is not a good situation to being of course. With now you have clothes we must continue our journey we cannot sit around all day here of course”

The leader continued to speak at that first few seconds, it was clear that at that exact moment in time there was a lot of work that had to be done. With little time to do it the leader instructed the cart to move forward, maintaining the usual layout and the perimeter defence to form back up as the spears withdrew from the front and made their way back down to the normal positions, keeping a nice and even spread out of positioning inside of the job. It seemed that even now there was tones of work that they had to do.

As the scouter jumped down from the caravan he allowed themselves to let their eyes return to normal once more taking the position of back guard up. It seemed that the caravan would be moving once more in the formation that they had decided to take. It was clear that there was enough work to be done and the last of the guards coming back to formation did not alert anyone to anything that could be considered wrong in that situation.

At the same time Yukio managed to have slipped through taking the place of the dead guard without alerting any suspicion though with the caravan now looking at being back on the move this would be a harder task to get what was inside of it than he first thought. Of course, changes would come and go as they walked down the road that would seem them reach the end of the journey. It was clear that they had lots of work to do and Yukio would have to try and make the most of the chance he was now given. If he failed to do so then he would fail the mission that seemed to hold value to the ANBU branch.

[TWC: 2518/5000]

 

[Shirai Sadao]

The women nodded to him taking what was offered before looking down to herself with a blush and sigh seeing her state once more before making her move to travel down the road, the task was done, and the real Yukio had taken his place amongst the guards in the caravan’s guard moving as they did to protect the cargo as the women spoke upon her leaving.

“Thank you again for this kindness I hope you safe journey on these roads more so than I have experienced. For those roads can prove dangerous at such a late hour I have heard.”

With that the clone moved down the road until out of sight of the caravan dropping its transformation and throwing the clothing aside with a sigh this was becoming more stressful than any mission he had done prior to now but with calm manner and clear mind the task would be done for now the next step came into play.

Though distraction towards the eyes of the scout had drawn Yukio’s attention towards the man once more he knew that it was something to be looked into at a later date as his own eyes caught sight of his clone moving into position from behind the caravan. The guard would more than likely be very well trained at least for a job like this and not knowing what the remaining guards were capable of was enough to set the Shinobi on edge.

With his new place amongst the guard he would have to be sure not to make it so obvious he could not use a spear to its full potential for hand to hand combat was the specialty of his clan. But to cover it up would take skill and subtlety something he had confidence in his ability to achieve.

Though only able to use a limited amount of jutsu the clone was more than capable of creating a large enough distraction to draw the caravans attention, though not knowing where the caravan was heading was more than a bit of a hinderance and haste was not the first thing on the Hyuuga’s mind time was both with and against him.

Timing would be what made this plan come together and such a thing would plague the Hyuuga’s mind as the caravan travelled. He could not help but curse himself in silence at what he felt like weakness to be unable to have many options in these circumstances, but a bold move may prove vital as the clone moved into position.

Bringing its hands together the clone made the seals for the aqua fang launching the jutsu at the caravan’s rear guard from the same shadows the original Yukio had been hiding in not a few moments ago. Yukio not reacting until the attack struck making sure that the clone knew it would not strike him accidentally.

As the hail of jutsu struck the caravans guard he would have to move quickly to react as he was certain the clone would not last long against what was about to head in its direction.

OOC:

Spoiler

Clone attacks the caravan rear guard with Aqua fang jutsu

 

[Uchiha Takeshi]

It seemed that the woman had gone off on her own direction now, something that would please the convoy that he had. It was becoming clear that this stop was just someone looking for help and the group didn’t mind. The travelling group continued to walk into a tight pack it was clear that this formation had been practised over and over and that they had been drilled multiple times into it, though their purpose was just caravan guarding they had little in terms of experience to hold to this task, though it would still be improving during the time they had been travelling.

“We are coming up to the first check point, we are behind on schedule this seems to be due to that little detour we took back there, I have to admit I am not happy about it but what else can be done. We need to pick the pace up and I want us to move quickly in this front. Pick up the pace at the back of the route and make sure we make up the lost time. I will not have it be said that I am a slow worker we are to deliver on time. All units pick the pace up”

It seemed that under the instruction of the leader the group picked up speed, making their movements quick and easy. Their pace that of a quick jog all in unison and perfection, trained to the highest ability as they begin the group would be distracted in this situation, of course that being said the caravan continued to move as one guard was slammed into by the Aqua fang that smashed into him. It seemed that this was not the best time for the clone to become aware for the rest of the group. The scout from earlier was already standing between the clone and the caravan.

“I will deal with this Commander, keep moving”

“Understood”

The caravan didn’t stop moving as the blue eyes of the Hyuuga activated in a split second, but when the cloak came off it would cause the very shiver to run up Yukio spine if he caught sight of what he was witnessing. The body deformed and twisted, clattering and chattering as it looked at the clone, though the head spun one hundred and eighty degrees to stare from him upside down, the body twitching as if someone inside was commanding this little object. The mouth coming open as spikes shot towards the Clone in that split second.

The body warped around as the legs came up from behind in that split second, its body rattling in weird shapes as the lifeless eyes of the Hyuuga stared into the clone the man glanced back to the caravan making sure there was enough distance before he begun to allow himself to fully let go, the eyes coming back to focus on the clone as arms came out stretching further than normal from the body of the thing that Yukio saw before him as they headed towards the clone in fist like patterns.

[TWC:3,032/5,000]

 

[Shirai Sadao]

The clone smirked as it’s jutsu hit home bringing one of the guards down swiftly as was planned though what came next was something the Hyuuga could never have prepared for as the puppet made its decrepit movements before him. The abomination that was once a Hyuuga caused his mind to go blank a moment as the world around him fell quiet thoughts passing through his mind.

“What is that thing, what have they done to my clan members to create such an abomination this is something that cannot stand. But for now the objective is what matters the most this is something I will look into at a later date.”

He felt rage build in his chest one he tried to contain lest he blow his cover as the clone looked to him with a look of shock and confusion towards his demeanour as it raised an eyebrow but did not speak the voice would possibly give away the real Yukio standing amongst the guards by the caravan as it brought its hands together once more.

Shaking his head he tried to remove that sense of rage from his mind, the very distraction he had feared coming into this mission proving it would make its mark. He would have to review this later tempering himself more to ensure he would not cause issue when introduced to a team of his peers.

Taking his eyes away from the abomination Yukio used to attack to make it seem as if he was moving to secure the contense of the caravan it being precious to all here. Turning back a moment to see if any were watching him he searched looking around to see where the item that needed taking would be and he picked it up moving it within his robes.

Turning back to the commotion outside he moved back out into the night with the others as he went to observe the clones reactions to this sudden attack. The clone being faced with the thing speeding towards it brought its hands together once more causing whirls of slashing wind to form around it’s fists striking out towards the creature.

“It will hold them off, that’s what truly matters but if they find out what I hold on my person now they will not let me escape easily to say the least.”

Moving to the side of the caravan Yukio attempted to move himself away from the main body of the guards and shinobi that were stationed there in hopes of making some distance between them before moving away. If they were all the same as the one who attacked his clone then he would not be prepared to take them on.

His eyes glanced across each of them taking in anything about their features that would distinguish them from the rest of the crowd of guards standing around as he sweated slightly not wishing to draw attention however the predicament he found himself in would prove there was little room for error.

 

[Uchiha Takeshi]

It seemed that the clone was going after this fight for that split second, though nothing was truly aware there was a situation until the strikes smashed into the doll as it rocked backwards and forwards. It seemed that the hit had landed personally as the head of this thing snapped backwards in that split second, the arms coming out to be motionless, as what would seem like time paused completely for the clone. The head still rattled back, and the eyes rumbled around for that split second, it was as if the very interaction was surreal and of course this was what it would be for the clone.

The head juddered back to its normal position, snapping back as it came over and in an instant steam filled in front of the clone. The searing heat burning at what would have been flesh and before another warning could be heard out the power erupted from the pupped as the clone smashed away into dust as the puppet looked back to the convoy seeing it had moved away from them slightly but was still up on the road. As it reached up to press what would be considered a headset it echoed around the rest of the convoy in a split second. The intention to give the heads up and warning of anyone that would be acting in a suspicious nature in this situation, considering what had just taken place.

“It seems that the attacker is still hiding in the shadows, the clone is gone it was nothing to do really but I want to keep everyone on alert this means that if there was a clone then there is going to be someone pulling the strings. This is something I do not like, and I feel that we need to keep our eyes peeled for anyone out there that may in fact be looking to get inside of the caravan. I will join you shortly on this, please keep an eye out commander and look for anyone that can be an issue”

The commander allowed himself to nod, normally keeping his face covered he glanced around into the group. As he allowed himself to glance at the guards he spotted one that was shifting out of line. In the blink of an eye he vanished and appeared before the guard in a split second as he towered over the man and looked down at him. Wondering what he was doing out of formation he stood their arms folded over him. As he glanced down his eyes formed the purple rings that were signalling this man as the commander in that split second.

“Have you been lost inside of the formation, or are you just not paying attention. I suggest you form up before something nasty comes to you.”

It seemed the commander had managed to spot Yukio’s attempts to get away from the group quickly, as he stood there waiting for a reply it was clear that this man was beyond the level of Yukio. Considering the way he spoke and his actions he could have been a former high level ninja maybe equal to a Jounin or higher, it seemed that each action Yukio took would have to be careful in this situation to not over press himself or reveal anything.

[TWC:3,585/5,000]

 

[Shirai Sadao]

Yukio was rendered speechless as the destroyed clone’s memories flooded into his mind, what he saw brought terror into him to say the least. His thoughts were a jumbled mess in that moment his speech escaping him as he attempted to move away. This was a group well above his station the fact he had been sent at this time was something he could no longer comprehend.

As he heard the voice over the radio it appeared to him this was not just any bunch of random shinobi they were much more than that. Coordination and power lead way to their confidence in what was happening here, his clone never stood a chance it was destroyed in moments as would he be if he tried to escape now.

This would all be of no matter in one swift motion as the commander of the group appeared before him, meeting his eyes as his own glowed in speechless fear. The commanding tone they gave to him forcing him into compliance, to the young ANBU it felt like he was being spoken to by Takeshi or Yuki his respect and undivided attention was all he could give in that split second losing his sense of self.

“My apologies sir I did not mean to move out of turn, I was only moving to make sure we were not struck from the flanks by any others who may be hiding in the cover of the night. Seems many strange happenings are about this night, so it was just to be safe.”

It was the most convincing lie he could muster in the split second, he had to think but it was a convincing one non-the less. At this point in time the best plan he could have would be to keep pace with the caravan and maintain his cover until destination was reached or something else came about in the near future.

If he made any aggressive moves towards this group now he would surely meet a swift and untimely end something he was not too keen on meeting right now for he still wished to see through his training in the ranks of the leaf villages ANBU branch. If anything, he could use this opportunity to gain more information on this group as he moved back into position with the other guards.

Making an attempt to avoid the gaze of the commander any more would make sure he could not be discovered, the piercing gaze of those eyes making him feel like he would be discovered at any moment. With the caravan starting to move again he kept pace with the other guards keeping pace, letting his eyes gaze across the darkness of the woods around them.

As he kept going he began to formulate any and all plans he could possibly muster, what had he learned during the academy and the tutoring sessions with his peers that would allow his escape. All he had known was the direct approach but with Shinobi in the ANBU branch able to leave the village few and far between facing a much greater challenge was to be expected.

Taking a deep breath he would bide his time focusing on keeping the mirage of the transformation jutsu maintained until the time was right to strike out.

 

[Uchiha Takeshi]

The commander looked down at the man that was trying to sneak his way out of the caravan, it had seemed that he listened to the words while studying the man for any form of interaction at all. Unsure if he was telling the whole truth the commander sighed to himself before looking at the man once more, he studied him for a few minutes and then spoke his words pondering on what action should be taken in that split second. Though they needed to keep moving it was clear they didn’t have this time to make this discussion take place now.

“Stay in formation, if you wander away again my friend here will be keeping a closer eye on you, we had to stop already once for you wandering away, this would be the second time that we stop there will be no more chances, I want to make it on time and am not willing to let you stop that no matter what the cause is. Even if it is for a good cause I will not accept that as a reason from this point on.”

The commander seemed to have spoken about someone keeping a closer eye on Yukio, though to them they needed to make sure that the carriage kept moving. With the carriage moving once more it was then clear Yukio had managed to get himself under the spotlight. The one that the commander had sent to watch over him for a while to make sure he didn’t break formation once more came to light clearly. The sound of chattering teeth was heard behind him as the man came into light as the sounding that came over in the night it was clear that the human puppet was back from destroying the clone that Yukio had placed in its path.

“So, your my little play thing for a while, I wonder how you got onto this mission. What….abilities are under that uniform. Its fine if you step out of line I can add you to my collection, what a fine addition you would make to this collection. Until then I will make sure that you stay in line”

It seemed that the human puppet allowed a long slender hand to stretch out and rest on his shoulders, the puppet would guide Yukio back to his standing spot and make sure that he continued to walk in the correct line. He would not be able to go off the track at this point and still had a lot to learn in the eyes of this team.

“Let’s keep moving we need to keep a good pace up, the meeting point isn’t that far ahead and we haven’t got long till we are expected to be there”

It seemed that the commander was in a rush to get this done and dusted, the delivery would be one that he expected to complete quickly and efficiently, he knew full well that he would be having to do a bit of talking when they managed to get to the end.

[TWC: 4,096/5,000]

 

[Shirai Sadao]

Knowing he was under suspicion only limited Yukio’s options more than he had hoped for only made worse by the puppet like hand on his shoulder causing him to shudder slightly at the sound of the chattering sound the puppet made. Tilting his head back but keeping pace he spoke to the man or whatever he was.

“What lies under this uniform is for me to know and me alone, I will keep pace with this caravan however maybe some day I will grace you to find out what I am capable of but today is not that day. We have a mission to complete so let us see it through and get it over with. I doubt we want to be around each other more than we have too.”

With that he spoke very little for the remainder of the journey tempering his breath as he shrugged his shoulder slightly to try and remove the man’s grip from him. It was rather uncomfortable being in this position all hopes of escape somewhat cut off to him for now until they reached their destination.

There was always the option of causing distraction using the wide range of jutsu that he knew to escape for combat was all the Hyuuga had known even since his earliest days. But would that truly help him now he thought.

“These freaks are content with keeping their eyes on me, at this moment I cannot see escape nor can I see a good ending to this when we finally finish along this path. I have what they transport and with suspicion already on me I will be the one they turn to when it is not there.”

With that in mind there was only one path left open before him letting the transformation dissipate into smoke before moving his hands to the sides taking the stance of his clan as his green eyes glowed in the night. Forcing his palm out causing a tunnel of wind to be launched towards the puppet the air palm moving to force them away from him as he quickly formed a set hand seals.

Shards of mirror formed in the air around the caravan shards raining down from the sky as Yukio bolted to the side attempting to gain some distance from the caravan lest he get quickly surrounded by all those present. He would have to disengage and disengage quickly before the real threat turned it’s ugly head in his direction.

The flow of hand seals did not stop in the time given to him he had one other option as he sent to shattered shards jutsu towards the puppet that was closest to him with intent to shatter its limbs where his clones basic strikes had failed him.

It was a gutsy move to say the least and would either end in a prolonged disengagement for all of them or many people dead and buried if their enemies allowed for the privilege. This was something he highly doubted at this point seeing what the bunch were capable of it was obvious his corpse would be used in some sick and twisted experiment.

His memories of the village passed through his mind in that moment causing a smile to come to his face regardless of the dire situation. This may not be his final moments if lady luck was looking down upon him, but the risk was always present, this was what it meant to be in the ranks of the ANBU branch the chances someone took to protect and see the village was protected and it’s people remained safe.

Trailing thoughts in the grand scheme of things, the time of reminiscing was over, but he couldn’t help but wonder who would miss the young Hyuuga if he was not so lucky this day. Being somewhat of an enigma within the village there were very few who even had knowledge he was alive an moving around and those who did only saw him once every few months.

At the end of the day this would all be a secondary concern as his mind brought him back to the present observing the effects of his onslaught as he tried to flee into the forest.

[OOC]

Spoiler

Using Air Palm on the puppet
Using reflective rain on the whole caravan
Using shattered shards to disable the puppets legs

 

[Uchiha Takeshi]

It seemed that Yukio was going all out, and it went from zero to one hundred real fast considering the current situation. He had just come out of transformation in front of the human puppet, it seemed that this might not have been the smartest move at the time but there was a small stun of silence in the eyes of the human puppet. It seemed that they had been caught off guard for that small amount of time, as he tried to raise his arms up quickly it was already too late as he felt the air smash into the chest of the puppet splintering the wood straight away, in that few seconds the puppet stumbled backwards.

It tried to recover but not before rain started to pour down outside, as the puppet allowed itself a few seconds to try and logically find which one was the real Yukio from the number of them had doubled. It seemed that right now they needed to recover, as the puppet attempted to sprint off after his target he smashed down to the ground in a split second as his legs came apart under him in that instant, the puppet howled in frustration for that split second. Knowing full well that right now it had no chance to even hope to catch up with the man that had infiltrated into the convoy so easily.

As the human puppet let its hands come together the real form emerged from the suit he was wearing, it was an old man that showed experience well past his years. As he sighed to himself he looked out for the boy who had manged to escape his eyes right now, anger boiled threw his body at the thought of letting something like this happen without any warning or planning. It just took place that was something that he was not willing to accept but the puppet he was using was broken on.

The commander however was much quicker to react as he allowed his hands to come together as he summoned his paths back around him in a split second. The whole army had arrived and while the commander was not the hunter he felt part of him nagging to chase after them to catch them straight away. But he held himself back he didn’t rush forward like he normally would instead he remained calm and collect about the situation and allowed himself to protect the cart. He left his team to head out and chase the man that had managed to infiltrate them.

At that time there was the complete set of them covering the caravan it seemed that if Yukio didn’t already manage to get the object now it would have become impossible for him to do so. The rain covering his tracks from behind by the commander kept watch for as long as he could, watching his members sprint into the distance after the man to see what he was truly getting himself up to at that split second. It had become obvious that he had managed to do something, it was just a matter of time until they figured out what it was.

The commander walked over to the Human puppet, now that Yukio was out of ear shot it seemed that they were exchanging words on what had taken place. Maybe even getting a full description of the man that they had encountered in this situation. It seemed clear that they wanted as much information on what was happening but weather he could give it or not was a different matter, he was already annoyed about the whole situation to be honest with you.

It seemed it was down to the last person that had to chase Yukio, though he had made it hard for himself to be followed. The man tried his best as he darted after him it would be a chase that had to be done. Though, this would be harder than they first planned he had managed to make his escape well as the rain continued to pour and the man headed deeper inside of the jungle as he looked in search for any sign of the man that was around this place.

The man rustled threw the bushes as he got a glimpse of something moving in the forest, he instantly headed straight after the man as he picked up pace, it seemed that out of the team he was the quickest one in speed. Moving with purpose as he reached his destination he noticed there was no sign of the person they were hunting; a sigh came through from his lips as they tried to look around in that split second and figured out that the man had completely vanished form the sight. Curing under his breath he decided to return to the group to fill the leader in on what they had found out so far.

It had seemed that the boy had managed to slip away from them without any form of warning or anything. He sighed as he went back to the captain to inform him of all that had happened and how he had managed to lose the boy. It seemed that this mission was now in real risk of being failed at this moment in time. The group continued their conversation for a little while in time it seemed that they were at a cross road on what action would suit them right now. Knowing full well that that things were now in dire straights in that situation.

[TWC: 5,000+/5,000]
[Mission has been posted for rewards, please hit WC to earn your rewards]

 

[Shirai Sadao]

Sweat trailed down the Hyuuga’s temples as he watched the results of his distraction, his legs feeling stiff for a moment the fear that he may have been caught causing him to freeze for a split second before shaking his head turning to flee into the darkness of the forest.

Yukio bolted from the caravan as fast as his legs could carry him, he didn’t look back luckily his eyes granted him three hundred and sixty degree vision so he didn’t have to. Though he wasn’t really sure if he wanted to see what was behind him the shifting shadows and Chakra that he could see sending a shiver down his spine as he held his prize against the interior of his robes.

His mind wandered in that moment once more, considering everything that had just happened he would have to consider how lucky he actually was to have managed to escape in the split second, he had allowed himself through the gutsy actions he had committed too. Those were not any old Shinobi that he had faced at that caravan.

He went over the events that had transpired that night the uniforms the guards were wearing, and the powers of the Shinobi present or at least the small details he had managed to pick up in the short respites between the stages of his plan. The only things he could note that were of major concern at least in his mind were the Hyuuga puppet, Such a thing being something he didn’t think was possible for a creation like that.

Though this paled in comparison to the glare of the commander those ringed eyes were not natural, and the only thing Yukio could think of to explain them would be a form of visual jutsu that he had never seen before. It was something that made him curious and would remain as such for his journey back to the village as something he wanted to look into and gather information about any way he could.

This trail of thought ceased shortly after as the burning sensation in his legs sent a sharp flow of pain up his body causing him to stop placing his hands on his knees as his breathing escaping his lungs in short, sharp breaths. He had never felt so on edge before turning his head in every direction to focus his visual prowess making sure he wasn’t still being followed before taking respite.

Leaning against a tree he sighed looking over his person with a degree of shock and surprise seeing as he had come out of the engagement unscathed bar his emotional state at the time. It would be a moment that would be engrained in his mind for a long time after now he may have escaped but in the grand scheme of things he had been made painfully aware how weak he was in comparison to many of the Shinobi who wandered outside the safety of the villages walls.

That made him wonder for a while how did those who left the villages become so strong, what kind of hardships did people face on the roads and in the wilderness to bring them to that point. What would make a person so twisted as to turn a member of his clan into a puppet like that and the even bigger question was where was the one controlling that puppet hiding the whole time, or was it some other form of forbidden jutsu something that seemed to be a trend amongst those in that group.

All these would have to be answered later as he tilted his head to see the rising sun in the distance, it seemed he had rested for longer than he had realised but it had still given time to clear his head of distracting thoughts and allowed his body to get some energy back to make the trip back home. Home was something he felt like he truly needed right now though not so much for the break and more for the feeling of safe training and a quick sleep to make sure he was ready for the next time something like this reared its ugly head in his direction.

Getting to his feet he made haste to return to the leaf village for all an early morning leisurely stroll would have been appealing to him he still had the objective on his person and this far away from the village any number of people could attempt to take everything he had worked so hard to gain as his swift progress brought him closer to the village with every step.

It took time even with the haste that he moved at to return with the precious cargo he hadn’t realised how far away he had ended up. The journey home always felt longer when searching for safe refuge something he had heard once and now fully appreciated and understood. As the gates could be seen in the distance a sigh of relief escaped his lips as he eventually came to stand before them tilting his head over to the gate guards with a nod.

“If we could skip any unnecessary pleasantries as you can quite clearly see I am somewhat exhausted after today’s events and must have meeting with my branch as soon as possible.”

He spoke through sharp breaths but maintained his professional demeanour and stern tone that he always carried when coming and going from the village and with a nod from the guard he entered making his way towards the ANBU buildings to deliver his package. Though it had never crossed his mind the entire mission he did wonder how precious this item was to have such a guard protecting it though he would not think for a moment stealing it would be a good idea.

As he walked into the area and walking into the ANBU sector its familiar air was somewhat pleasant to him though such a concept may have seemed strange to anyone outside of the ANBU branch. The stench of death lingered in the air the cells and interrogation chambers lining the interior would cause any unexperienced members to gag if they didn’t have the stomach for such things.

Meeting with his peers he placed the object upon the table to have it taken from him, it irked him slightly that he would never find out what became of his hard work or at least it would most likely not be obvious to him for a prolonged period of time. He was not usually one to speak out of turn or in a sarcastic manner, but he had things on his mind that he felt needed to be said.

“Next time a mission of this magnitude is presented to the branch I would like to suggest sending a few more people than just myself to deal with the problem. Considering what I was facing this was something that would have required much more than myself to accomplish without risk”

His words were met with a sharp glare from his peers, he was right to think speaking so brashly would be met with such a reaction but at this point in time he didn’t particularly care about the consequences of such words.

“Do not complain the mission was complete and if you couldn’t do it alone it simply means you are not strong enough yet.”

With a tsk and a sigh he couldn’t argue with that line of logic he needed to become stronger and more adaptable to avoid what had happened during this mission again. Turning to leave and head home for a short while before checking in with one of the captains to report on the individuals roaming freely around the village outskirts..

[WC: 5000/5000]