A Maple Story [ABW]

Age : 35 Posts : 1113

Some ten metres below the cliff edge, gripping tight to the protruding rocks, Uriko's foot slipped. "Ngh." She exhaled heavily, clenching her one hand even tighter as her leg swung loosely away. The motion sent her other ankle turning until - "Agh!" The kunoichi cried out through gritted teeth. The muscles in her arm had snapped into position, trying to accommodate for the force of the fall. The woman glanced over her shoulder as her body swayed freely. It was a long way down. Damnit. Uriko thought to herself. Years ago, when she had a full set of limbs, the female nukenin would never have struggled at such a task. But she had never let her disability get the better of her before, and she would be damned if it was going to now. Ignoring the pain flooding every fibre of her strained arm, she wrestled against her flailing legs, bringing one up against a rocky outcrop. It gave her just enough purchase to slowly slide the other up, until it was tucked beneath her tailbone and supporting the rest of her. Panic averted, Uriko took a deep breath. She was one of the only people who were capable of that here. The great network of cracks running through the very earth of Kuma no Kuni played host to a naturally-occurring, poisonous gas. Once she had acquired a sample, it had not taken the expert medic long to manufacture an antidote to the toxin. Now, though the experience was less than pleasant, she could at least survive amongst the fumes rising up around her.

Analysing the cliff face opposite her, Uriko soon glimpsed the spot she was searching for. Without warning, the woman sprang from her perch. She soared across the crevasse in an instant, gravity forcing her much further down the ravine than she would have liked. A moment later, the female nukenin hit the other side amongst a miniature cascade of dislodged rock. Scrambling against the tide, she pushed on up the wall, ignoring the cuts and scrapes from the jagged stone. Some ten minutes passed before Uriko's hand reached the grass atop the cliff. Her nails dug into the earth as her hand gripped tight. With one last, determined effort, the kunoichi heaved her body over the edge and rolled gratefully onto the soft, stable ground. Would it have been easier to circumnavigate the vast trench? Uriko had given it due consideration. But keen as she was to reach her destination, the longer (though safer) route had simply not appealed. Of course, jumping the gap from clifftop to clifftop was impossible, even for the most athletic of shinobi. Regardless, she was safely across and had cut a good hour from her journey. Smiling at the result - for her luck had been thin on the ground lately - Uriko got to her feet and began a light jog toward the looming forest.

The viridian horizon grew ever more impressive as the woman approached, before disappearing as she entered the sparse outskirts. The air was moist here and the ground soft. Padding along silently, the kunoichi took pleasure in the almost-silence - just the occasional bird call amongst the whispering leaves. Dappled sunlight broke through the canopy overhead, but it was not until she had reached the real depths of the forest that Uriko appreciated these small pockets of illumination. Indeed, without them, she never would have found her way here, to the grand maple tree towering over her. The vibrant green leaves so distinct in shape, soon to bronze and fall. The woman walked slowly over to the base of the tree. Her soft footsteps only making noise when they shuffled across a large root. Reaching out, she pressed her hand against the bark, feeling her way around the trunk. Her skin registered every contour, every pattern and design of gnarled, hardened shell as she worked her way around. Uriko almost felt sympathy for the verdant giant. "Ah." She muttered, halting her search and drawing her hand a few inches from the trunk. Knock, knock. The noise echoed around the immediate area, but was soon lost amid the thousands of trees. A moment passed in silence, before the bark began to shrivel where the woman had struck. It was as if the maple's very skin was being drawn in. With the bark, the outer layers of the trunk disappeared too, until a small opening was revealed. A dim light inside suggested there was more to be seen. Knowingly, the female nukenin ducked inside as the hole closed up behind her.

Immediately confronted by a winding staircase, Uriko followed it upwards. The light grew brighter as she went but even more noticeable were the sounds. There were people here. Not like the daily hustle and bustle of townsfolk, but there was the noise of human existence coming from above. Finally, after many flights of stairs, the kunoichi turned a corner and was greeted by a large, wooden platform. The once-dim light had grown bright enough to survey all that was lain before her now; and what a sight it was. The circular room seemed bigger even than the circumference of the tree, though this was, of course, impossible. Around the edge were small booth-like areas and from these, most of the noise was emanating. Glancing inside as she walked past, Uriko noted the abundance of hammocks in which many of the people here were resting. All of them criminals. Accommodation. Right. The woman mused, her memory of this place somewhat vague. On the other side of the room, another set of stairs led her to the second floor. It was set up in much the same way, except where there were hammocks below, makeshift stores had been erected. Food and drink mostly, though a fairly well-stocked, if basic, equipment store could be found towards the back. Beside it yet more stairs, but Uriko was not interested in these for now. She was already drawing a lot of attention just by being here, so was keen to set about her business. Sidling up to the equipment store, she called the salesman over. "I'm going to need the following..." She began, matter-of-factly.

As the last of the items was secured in her pouch, Uriko sealed the latch and paid the shopkeep what he was due. She probably could have threatened him and saved the money, but this was not a good place to be causing trouble. It was not that she feared these two-bit thieves and murderers, but this was a safehouse - one of very few that had remained completely undetected. A brawl here would encourage the criminals to seek other shelter and fewer nukenin meant fewer information channels, less business and as a result of the latter, poorer quality equipment. Not to mention the danger of any structural damage caused. Walking slowly, purposefully over to the bar, Uriko became aware of just how many eyes were on her. Every pupil told the same story: a blend of fear, curiousity and admiration. Strange to think that criminals were capable of such emotion, the woman thought. The bartender seemed less inclined to feel anything about the kunoichi's presence however, barely batting an eyelid as she sat and ordered a glass of Shochu. The bar had a pretty basic stock of alcohol, but fortunately this particular spirit was among them. After some shuffling of bottles, the barman located the one in question and poured a little into a ceramic cup. Standing right before Uriko, the man proffered the open bottle and momentarily raised his eyebrows. The woman shrugged, then flicked her head in affirmation. Flashing a brief smile, the bartender left the bottle beside his customer and busied himself elsewhere. Bringing the cup to her lips, Uriko savoured the smell before taking a large gulp. It wasn't all bad, this criminal lark.

Posts : 760

Keiro could feel the rock grind into the palm of his hands. With each single rock he grabbed, the earth pressed into him like the hard, unnatural concrete walls and floors of the prison cell. The nerves in his hands deaden over the course of the six years in prison, he didn’t like it one bit when he learned about this but there was no helping the way his hands felt. But these rocks had a sharper, edgier feel to them. Feeling them with each grab felt almost surreal to Keiro like he was feeling something for the first time in his life. The many would’ve felt these agonizing rocks and the senses would immediately want to draw away. The unpleasant feeling Keiro could not get enough of. Oddly, he was addicted to it. The fix he was receiving was intoxicating, better than any drug he possibly could’ve taken.

He looked up to see how far he had to go. The sun was high up in the sky looking directly at him. He flinched away and shook his head trying to brush the feeling of the sunlight. He couldn’t exactly see how high up to his destination. Was it forty feet? Fifty? How long had he been climbing it? He had lost all sense of measurement climbing these mountain ranges finding that the mountains were treacherous as they were sharp. They told Keiro that climbing up the mountain ranges was dangerous, even to a shinobi. The small town down below the mountains held approximately thirty people. Keiro had walked for two days, avoiding any villages and larger towns. He didn’t know whether information had spread that the prison in Earth Country had a plethora of convicts that escaped its impenetrable walls. It wouldn’t take much for towns and villages to be suspicious of fellow travelers walking through town. He was easier to walk among the people in Ame. Their attitude towards ex-shinobi or cons was neutral-well as neutral as they come. Many people that walked Amegakure were small business owners, villagers whose been living in the country for generations and ex-shinobi who were old and way past their prime. It was the center of war, a place where refugees would reside. It was the main reason why Keiro had went after his stay with the hermit. There were other places such as Ame lacking the extensive amount of rain but Keiro would have to locate the places.

Within the small community below, there was one woman who told him about the path to the treehouse. They did not dare touch the mountains, she had said, especially at night. There were few people that took the path towards the treehouse, many of which had lost their lives to the sharp edges of the rocks below. Keiro saw their mangled bodies impaled by the sharp rocks. Some were fresh kills, one that the buzzers and crows were feasting upon while other bodies were already picked clean, the whites of their bones glisten on the sunny day. There was another path, a much longer and considerably easier path to take but the only difference was a checkpoint. Any shinobi not associated with a village would be arrested immediately or worse off killed. Keiro had no intention of dying, not yet, nor did he have any intention of going back to prison. Looking at the bodies wouldn’t discourage him. It was a part of the risk gambling with death. It was either death took or death gave, one or the other. In its simplicity was the joy of taking the risk and whether or not he survived would make him all the stronger-or kill him out right.

Keiro could tell that he simply couldn’t walk up it or run it with simple chakra control on the feet. The cliff was way too edgy and simply too steep for him to parkour. He was a master of it, one of his forte next to martial arts. The art was simply to get from point a to point b, something that shinobi are taught but never put into perspective as to how effective it can be. To truly master it meant mastering the body to maneuver and adapting to the environment. Keiro wasn’t foolish to think that he could simply do that on these ranges although it did have the illusion of pulling that off. It was probably how the few who climbed up these ranged died by simply thinking they could only to realize their fate the moment they attempted it.

Keiro grabbed a hold on whatever he could grab onto. Then another. Then another. Then another. It was rinse, wash, and repeat which wasn’t a hard thing to do but rather a tedious process. His mind had zoned out doing this and before long he felt his hand hang onto grass. This immediately broke him out of his inner world and back into reality. I made it, he thought, wasn’t as hard as I thought it would. He put his other hand where he felt the grass and muscled-up onto the ledge. He brushed the dirt off his pants and the inner shirt. Damn, it dawned to him that he actually made it. He would pat himself on the back but he found that climbing up a treacherous mountain range towards more danger was far from anything worthy of praise. Still, the feeling of climbing and succeeding did feel pretty good and he’ll have to wait.

He was astonished by the large tree that stood before him. He didn’t recognize the type of tree it was but he could imagine that these type of trees do not grown in climates like Rain Country or Earth Country. The climate here had the perfect balance to create a tree of such considerable size. If untouched by man, the tree would simply continue to grow. The large tree trunk body could’ve easily been as wide as four or five houses itself with the branches as thick as a normal tree trunk. The wooden bark took on dark amber color, rich of the color of earth as if it was painted on; the leaves were rich in green color reminding Keiro of the color of seaweed his mother would buy that could only be found in the shores of sea country. He wondered how such a tree could’ve grown so large while the other trees around the forest were simple of normal height. How no one could see how such gone unnoticed was not plausible to him. He walked to the base of tree, trying to find a way to enter inside. His hand tried to find a crack somewhere, something that didn’t feel like the rough, woody surface of bark. His hand did feel a crack and he was able to wrap his fingers around it. He pulled and the makeshift door opened. Immediately, the heavy smell of alcohol filled his nostrils. Good lord, Keiro thought, this was worse than the time I spilled sake all over my shirt. I couldn’t get that smell of my clothes for weeks.

He ducked under and climbed in closing the makeshift door behind him. He slowly walked down the spiral staircase, the smell of alcohol only increasing in intensity. He stepped onto the main floor-or what Keiro assumed to be the main floor. The amount of people sitting and standing around was as eventful, men and women conversing among themselves talking about God knows what. Keiro hadn’t decided where to start off first. He adjusted the bag over his shoulder and walked towards the bar.

The people were indeed criminals. The look in their eyes was the look of one that seeing someone as a potential enemy. Their eyes sleeked over Keiro as he walked past saying “excuse me” and “pardon me” after every person he had to slide past to get to the bar. They were all potentially hunted; all of them could not trust each other or even their own self. Keiro knew the look well, all them running on fear. Fear was what ran the nukenin world, especially those who were considered weak among the crowd. Keiro had to put fear aside only to replace it with determination. It was the only thing that was holding him together; it was the only thing that could make him wake up in the morning, the one thing that didn’t damper him from walking from Earth, to Rain and then to Bear. Fear didn’t control him, not anymore it didn’t. When their eyes met Keiro’s, their eyes would either immediately turn away or they would stare for a second or two before turning back their attention. Whatever they saw in him they didn’t like but didn’t have the audacity to challenge Keiro. Keiro reached the bar and sat down on the stool next to a man who was about six foot eight and weighted maybe three times the size of Keiro. The man looked at Keiro and Keiro stared back. There was a second that past before the man nodded and Keiro nodded back recognizing their mutual silence. His attention was at the selection of alcohol that rested on the shelves in front of him. There were a lot and Keiro meant a lot of liquor on the shelves. It exceeded the quantity of Zurui’s collection tenfold but then Keiro took a second look and saw the tags on the bottle. They were cheap, for the most part and Zurui was more of who took in quality rather than quantity. He saw on the shelves that there were a lot of cheap liquor and beer on the shelves that could accompany to not only the pockets to the nukenin but also the quick fix of intoxication.

The barkeep was attending to some other patron, his conversation with the person seem to keep him occupied from the other patrons around him. I hope he has green tea, Keiro thought absentmindedly.

There was a creaking noise of the stool being sat upon. Keiro turned his eye to the woman who was sitting two stools to the left of him. She caught his attention immediately with her look. It was a look of a criminal that was the top of the ladder, one that could easily eliminate those around her without a second’s hesitation. Her eyes stared forward not so much zoning as her eyes were concentrating on the items. The barkeep saw her and immediately pulled his intention away to the woman. Keiro raised an eyebrow Strange how he did that. It was as if he was polarized towards her either out of him losing his track of time or simply out of fear.

Keiro didn’t care either way but his attention was still drawn to her. She was, in a sense, a female that could attract people to her though it wasn’t for the reasons why a man would be attracted to a female. She had raven black hair, cold and bitter as if winter had permanently destroyed the luster that once showed beauty. She could’ve been no taller than his mother if not just a tad bit taller. She was covered, wearing something that he only seen a few times. He remembered a man in prison the name eluded him, who wore something similar to what she was wearing covering her almost from head to toe. Keiro could’ve mistaken her for that man if he was younger and more naïve. The aura that came off her was shunning to those around her. It was something that also turned heads as they looked but also made them turn away. It wasn’t a ‘don’t fuck with me’ aura, that wasn’t the aura that Keiro was feeling but rather an aura that spoke ‘talk to me at your own risk’.

The barkeep and the woman spoke. She didn’t take long to choose what she wanted and the barkeep poured her a cup of the spirit she asked. One hand grabbed the cup and raised it to her lips.

Keiro wanted to turn around. He wanted to see the look on these people’s faces but that would’ve been a bit obvious. Oh no shit, the inner voice spoke. Keiro wanted to turn around but he felt their gaze were on her for just awhile longer, something about her that they couldn’t turn away from. Nervousness, fear, anxiety, these were all the emotions that Keiro was feeling and the woman didn’t even seem to mind.

She’s a keeper, the voice spoke again this time in a tempting, eerie voice. The way that aura comes off of her makes her perfect…even with the amount of imperfections on her, she’s perfect. The voice was whispering to her, gleaming with its unseen eye wanting her, desiring after her. That inner man’s desire was making Keiro desire her. Stop it! Keiro suppressed the feelings immediately. The last thing he wanted was to feel that way. What do I want her for anyway? He was feeling crazy talking to himself in his head but he didn’t think counted if Keiro was quietly debating in his head.

She fits the bill, someone who knows the world and understands the pain of it well. She has power, you recognize it. Perhaps it would be-wise to speak to her.

Wise? Or foolish? Keiro couldn’t decide the answer to it. What the hell, Keiro thought, he could see how this could play out. It could be-shoot me now-fun. He turned his head and was about to speak out before the large man beside said “Well…if it isn’t Nagase, Uriko…”

Oh you have got to be kidding me. Keiro turned and saw the large man standing up and walking over to Uriko. He was much taller than Keiro had assumed and he made two steps past Keiro and stood behind her. He had a smile that seem to be chiseled on rather than formed. It spoke madness; it spoke entirely of insanity in which insanity had shaped a creature of this size. “I’ve wondered if that was your smell. That smell was too familiar. It reminded me of the stench Haijiro had on him when he came back wounded.” He had tighten his hand into a fist as if he was about to strike her but there was that fear again that was stopping him. “You bitch…you smelly fucking-”

Keiro stood up with as much grace as a fox slithering through a small fence and stood in front of the large man looking up “Yo” he said in a bored, almost lethargic voice “Mind not talking like you’re a sailor?”

The large man leaned forward getting in Keiro’s face. He said she smelled. His breath could’ve killed an army. If this man touches me…if this man touches me…”And who the fuck are you?” the man spoke in an agitated voice.

Keiro’s eyebrows rose “Well, I would say my name but your breath is gagging me at the moment. Hold on while I find you a breath mint.”

“Agitating little man. This is between Uriko and I, you have no business in this matter.”

“Well, I kind of do when you’re insulting a woman regardless of what your business may be.” He damned his father’s teachings for telling him to respect woman. This may not of been the appropriate time to do that.

Age : 35 Posts : 1113

It had been such a long time since... this. To many it would seem a trivial thing, but Uriko had been busy lately. And even when she wasn't occupied with personal or professional matters, there was always that price on her head; and those stupid enough to try and claim it. Right now, she had time, money and an empty agenda. Nothing seemed more important than a quiet drink. As the soothing liquid tickled her throat and eased her mind, Uriko felt about as close to happiness and relief as one such as her ever does. Had she lost touch with certain emotions over the years? It was possible. The woman had become hardened to these things, as cold and unforgiving as steel. Even now, glad as she was, the woman did not crack a smile. In fact, her features registered more enjoyment when she was fighting than relaxing. Regardless, she was content. True enough, the location was little to write home about, but at least it was relatively safe from prying eyes. There were no cheap mercenaries or village operatives about and although there were plenty of ill-mannered nukenin watching her warily, Uriko believed none of them to be as foolish as to spoil her peace. It was almost inevitable then, the moment the thought had crossed her mind, that someone here would.

Lumbering up beside her, a large man accosted the woman. "Well… if it isn’t Nagase, Uriko…" He slurred, clearly having enjoyed one too many drinks already. Immediately, there was silence at the bar. Elsewhere the scene had yet to be noticed, and the familiar noises continued on in the background. The intruder was of imposing stature, taller and much broader than the kunoichi. He was clearly physically strong, but his mind was evidently lacking. Uriko ignored the man, preferring instead to pour herself a little more shochu. Undeterred, the brute continued. "I’ve wondered if that was your smell. That smell was too familiar. It reminded me of the stench Haijiro had on him when he came back wounded." He grunted, arrogantly taunting the woman. This time, he had provoked a reaction. The very second he had uttered the name 'Hajiro', Uriko's grip on her ceramic cup had grown tight, instantly shattering the container and spilling the alcohol across the bar. Small rivulets of crimson spread amongst the liquid, the fresh cuts on the woman's hand trickling blood. Taking a deep breath, the female nukenin tried to maintain composure. It wasn't working.

And it seemed her new friend was only going to antagonize her further. "You bitch… you smelly fucking-" He began, but was cut off by yet another newcomer. Standing just behind and to the right of Uriko, he approached almost silently and even though the woman could not see him without turning, she knew him to have more grace and consideration than the overgrown ape beside her. "Yo." He murmured casually. Then, addressing the other man, "Mind not talking like you’re a sailor?" He asked politely. Oh. Uriko thought with some surprise. A gentleman. It was unusual to find many well-spoken characters in such a place, but it was a welcome refrain. The large man turned a little and leaned into the quieter one. "And who the fuck are you?" He growled, his voice oozing irritation and disgust. Apparently, the new arrival was as unimpressed by this as Uriko had been. "Well, I would say my name but your breath is gagging me at the moment. Hold on while I find you a breath mint." He quipped. The kunoichi meanwhile, had calmed herself enough to deal with the problem. Underneath the bar, she formed a brief set of seals with her bloodied hand.

"Agitating little man. This is between Uriko and I, you have no business in this matter." It was actually a surprise to see and hear such restraint from the drunken fool. His attitude suggested he was looking for a brawl, but apparently only with the woman. Who am I to deny him? The female nukenin thought sarcastically to herself. She turned to face the brute, ready to respond. But not before the calmer man had said his piece. "Well, I kind of do when you’re insulting a woman regardless of what your business may be." He replied. Uriko could see him now, surprised to see a somewhat youthful and unmarked face staring back at her. Most criminals shared a common 'look' and yet this stranger was something different. He was in very good physical condition; as both a fighter and a medic, Uriko noticed immediately that he had strength far beyond his moderate stature. Soft, brown hair fell carelessly beside his features, which had a calm energy to them. Accentuated all the more by two bright, blue eyes. He would make an excellent con artist. The woman thought absent-mindedly, before considering it more seriously. After all, many criminals here were on the run for non-violent crimes. However, his casual clothing suggested otherwise. Indeed, he wouldn't have looked out of place at a more respectable, city bar.

Putting all of that to one side for now, Uriko decided to deal with the sweaty, hulking idiot first. Reaching out, she brushed her fingers against his jaw and turned it to face the woman one again. To anyone watching, a faint network of murky green lines spread from the point of contact, disappearing in the skin after an inch or so. With a mock smile, she addressed the man. "Sorry, I've not been much company have I?" She said, feigning a sweet voice. "You should return to your friends." She continued, cheerily. Then, quite suddenly, her voice changed. Her smile left and her eyes narrowed. "You've only got a few minutes left with them, after all." She sniffed, before pushing the man away from her. Intoxicated as he was, the motion caused him to stumble backwards. Once he'd regained his balance, his face was initially angry, but soon faded to concern as the woman's words sunk in. "Wha- what did you... you bitch. You-" He spoke with diminished confidence now, both scared and furious. Without warning, he lunged forward, snarling with rage. It was a sloppy and predictable haymaker, which the one-armed woman dealt with promptly. Using her forearm, she blocked his swing and turned on the spot. Bringing her foot to rest just behind the man's, she thrust her elbow into his chest and sent him tumbling away. Her movements were smooth and effortless, her expression passive - almost bored.

Wordlessly, Uriko straightened up and returned to her bar stool. A groan from the floor some ten feet away told the woman the the intruder wouldn't be bothering her again. While he struggled to find his bearings, the poison would set in and his condition would take a swift turn for the worse. Signalling the bartender, the kunoichi soon had the mess cleared up and a new cup brought to her. "Do I look like a damsel to you?" Uriko muttered, still facing the bar and away from the other stranger. Gulping down another glass of liquid, she poured herself another. A quarter of a bottle now. "What do you want?" She added, matter-of-factly. The kunoichi had learned long ago that everybody wants something. Very few however, came to her when they did. So why was this man here, now? The manner in which he had presented himself told Uriko he had a purpose, but it was too complicated to discover from such a fleeting introduction. Despite her apparent non-chalance, the female nukenin was quite interested to see what action the man might take.

Technique(s) Used:

Spoiler:

OOC: I don't know whether you wanted the man to provoke a fight, but if you'd like this to turn scrappy, feel free to steer it that way. Also, I apologize but for now, I can't match that mahusive post you made!

Posts : 760

Don’t make a move, the voice in Keiro’s head replied. Keiro didn’t think he would have to position himself to defend against him. Such things suggested that he was going to protect Uriko. This woman looks like she sleeps with swords. It was a saying when Kudara, his old training buddy , had said about his own mother. He described to him how she appeared whenever she was angry. Her face would contort into an ugly face. The muscles would stay at that position making it difficult for her to shape it back to normal. Her anger would rise, he said, limitlessly and her voice became ice freezing all things that would so dare to get in her way. Uriko’s aura was like that. Now that he was close up, it radiated off of her like the heat of coal coming out of a spit. The voice-if he had a face, it was smiling-only whispered in Keiro’s mind to watch.

Keiro did watch. His eyes caught a glimpse moving past him. She outstretched a hand that gently grazed his chin. It almost implied something sensual the way she moved her hand on the giant man’s skin. Some would’ve foolishly believed that the hand was actually gesturing something of that nature. Only Keiro saw what the hand contained. Its sick greenish colored reminded him of gangrene, the images of an arm and foot completely frostbitten, the man walking on the street containing the bubonic plague all flashed in Keiro’s eyes when he saw that green hand. It was the color of disease, the color of a slow and agonizing death by attrition. She said in that he should return to his friends for his death was imminent. The next thing Keiro knew, the man had drunkenly swung at Uriko. He was intoxicated but that was a full, with all the strength he could muster type of punch that could break through normal men. It was a foolish maneuver, Keiro thought, way too predictable that could only be dodged or blocked. Keiro knew that the man was going to rely on sheer strength and his building seeing that Uriko had to be no heavier than his mother’s size. It was a common mistake with all men of his nature. She blocked it with her forearm which took Keiro aback some. Impressive, her figure did allude to something hiding underneath all that clothing. It wasn’t for show. She did something with her foot and then the arm that use to block the fist bent inward and a hard driving elbow went into the man’s chest. The men didn’t stumble back but rather flew back. The people who had crowded around immediately open up as the man flew back. He groaned either out of pain of the elbow, his own drunkenness or whatever it was that Uriko did with her hand.

She’s a medic-nin he reasoned. He saw that type of green color before, the color of plague, on a mission when he was just a young boy. The medic nin had that same green color on his hand that reminded him of the drunk man’s skin. She was also good in Taijutsu-very good at it from the looks of how well she executed her movements. He’s seen very few people who could properly use their feet as if it was their hands. Most people who did that were usually very prideful and only used it to impress those around them. She, on the other hand, although she did look bored doing it, did it out of necessity. If that was the case then that meant-

She doesn’t have an arm, Keiro mind immediately formed. Keiro turned with Uriko’s back facing to him. “Do I look like a damsel in distress?” she muttered this as if sounding agitated. “What do you want?” sounding now bored of him. Keiro smiled with as much conviction as a crocodile smiles. She isn’t dumb, she knew I wanted something. No one in their gotdamn mind would step between a giant seven foot man and a woman who sleeps with swords without an agenda. Such things was like asking Death to come to the door with the death certificate in hand. It wasn’t insightful, it just made sense.

“Sorry.” He said, rubbing the back of his head. He sat down next her “I just hate it when someone decides they want to punch a woman’s face off when they had a little bit too much to drink.” His eye gave a momentary glance at her hand. Blood had leaked out-rather been forced out by simple rage. The man had touched a nerve, something that had cost him his life apparently. Haijiro was it? The name didn’t ring any bells in his head but it would definitely be wise not to mention the name, not yet anyways. The man’s name seems to set off her composure opening up memories that were far from pleasant. Keiro motion the barkeep to come over. The barkeep seemed almost annoyed by Keiro doing this as if he had other things to attend to.

“Water. Just water.”

The barkeep raised an eyebrow. Keiro’s blue eyes had a haunting sense of staring into him like he was cutting into his soul somehow. Keiro was smiling, that much was certain but it almost held no ground with the eyes looking at him. The barkeep just nodded his head, brought a glass up from underneath the counter and reached behind to grab a pitcher of iced water. The water filled the cup to the brim. “Thank you.” Keiro said, but the eyes told him to return to whatever it was he was doing. His business was done. The barkeep nodded again and made his rounds back to the other patrons.

“You ask me what I want-“he took the cup in one hand and leaned over slowly drinking the water so it would no longer been at the brim. He let out a soft sigh “There are very few things I want in the world. A lot of things that I wanted before have diminished over time and I simply wish for one thing and one thing only.” He turned to her; his head leaned to the side slightly. He didn’t finish what he had to say rather instead using his head to gesture to the people behind him.

“Do you see them? They watch us, wondering what it is we are saying. They do not know whether we are allies or enemies.” His voice changed. It lost its laidback tone of voice developing into a cooler much more calculated tone that could send chills down a person’s back. It was both the voice of ‘reason’ as Keiro put it and Keiro itself talking now. “What is it that makes them wonder? Is it curiosity? Is it confusion? What is it that draws them in to our aura?” He raised a finger “It is simple. It is fear that draws them.

“And who is to blame them for their fear. The Nukenin today live in a world of fear, a world where everyday one could easily take a knife and slit their throats as they sleep” he gestured with his hand swiping across his neck “The shinobi of the villages have put fear down in them once again, the shadow of the superpowers are growing immensely and now…it won’t be long now before the superpowers cross shadows and war will spark.”

He smiled coyly as if he was enjoying the words that he was speaking. Keiro didn’t feel odd doing it, it felt exhilarated like climbing the mountain here and finally feeling the first sensation of pain in his hands. “Before it was a cycle. The cycle was the Nukenin would rise up and become that fear the people wish to banish out of their lives. Organizations were rising not ten years ago and down a new era.” He chuckled “But look at them. They are shadows of their former selves, just existing because something in their minds is telling them to live. They have no purpose, no sense of direction. They are like sheep without a shepherd to guide from rushing waters.”

He took another sip of his water. His lips weren’t parched nor did he drink his water for any dramatic effect. He just felt like taking a sip of the ice cold water. He could feel the cup perspire “I shouldn’t be asked what it is I want. I know what I want, I simply wish for a change in the world. But what do you want-Uriko was it? What is that you wish to have? That is my goal at the moment, to fulfill what it is you want.”

Age : 35 Posts : 1113

Thump. The small, stoneware cup struck the wooden bar with a dull noise. It was the only sound that had passed between Uriko and her lone audience for some time. Was the man simply assessing what had happened? A keen-eyed stranger might discover a few things. More likely he was wondering how best to approach, given the scene he'd just witnessed. Wise. The woman thought quietly to herself. You give him too much credit. Another voice sniggered, echoing faintly inside her mind. Uriko closed her eyes as a slightly pained expression crossed her features for a second. Hoping to silence the unwelcome echo, the kunoichi reached across her chest and grasped the tall bottle. As she gently tipped it up and the clear liquid emerged, the light from behind the bar illuminated the glass. It was a good thing Uriko had extraordinary resistance to foreign toxins, as about a third of the shochu had already disappeared. She was no longer really affected by alcohol, able to enjoy a warm, calming sensation without losing her wits. And as an accomplished medic, repairing liver damage was akin to child's play. Still, the woman was not interested in knocking back cup upon cup. She let the current serving sit for a while, interacting with the oxygen in the air. In truth, she knew little about such processes - only that she'd once heard someone allow wine to 'breathe'. She hoped her liquor might benefit too.

By now, the newcomer had made up his mind to join the kunoichi and took the empty seat beside her. "Sorry." He began, running a hand through his hair and trying to appear aloof. "I just hate it when someone decides they want to punch a woman’s face off when they had a little bit too much to drink." He continued. It was an odd comment to make. "You see it often, do you?" Uriko replied snappily, intending the question to be rhetorical. Thankfully, the man seemed to take it this way and carried on as he was. Calling for water from the bartender, the still unnamed man stole a glance at the kunoichi's lacerated hand. The bleeding had mostly stopped, but it was surely the reason for this injury that interested the stranger. Offering thanks as his water was delivered, the newcomer then addressed Uriko. "You ask me what I want." He paused and sighed a little. "There are very few things I want in the world. A lot of things that I wanted before have diminished over time and I simply wish for one thing and one thing only." It was a rather cryptic answer, one that left the woman with more questions than answered. Sipping at her shochu, she hoped something would come of this soon.

The man leaned a little closer. Immediately, the female nukenin's eyes flitted back and forth, scouring the stranger's form for any hidden tricks or unpleasant surprises. Finding none, she inclined her head towards his, but remained cautious. The man nodded in the general direction of the other nukenin scattered about the room. "Do you see them? They watch us, wondering what it is we are saying. They do not know whether we are allies or enemies." He murmured. "Neither do I." Uriko muttered, her tone somewhere between inquisitive and threatening. Whether the man took note of this or not, his voice took a more serious note too. Far from the casual, affable newcomer of a few minutes ago. "What is it that makes them wonder? Is it curiosity? Is it confusion? What is it that draws them in to our aura?" Sitting upright again, he held up a single finger. "It is simple. It is fear that draws them." He added, knowingly. For her part, Uriko remained silent and let the man speak. Though irritated at the lecture on the whys and wherefores of fear, she chose to hear him out - if only to pass the time.

"And who is to blame them for their fear. The Nukenin today live in a world of fear, a world where everyday one could easily take a knife and slit their throats as they sleep." The stranger mused. Does he think it was ever any different? The kunoichi thought silently. All who turned against the law suffered this life, but most knew what they were getting into. The one-armed woman certainly had, although unbeknownst to her, the choice had been forced upon her. Growing impatient, Uriko's mouth thinned a little as her companion continued. "The shinobi of the villages have put fear down in them once again, the shadow of the superpowers are growing immensely and now…it won’t be long now before the superpowers cross shadows and war will spark." There it was. The hook that Uriko had been waiting for. War. The word echoed in her mind like a call to arms. It lingered on the air with unspoken promise. The female nukenin dearly hoped that what she was about to hear would live up to such a promise. There was always the possibility that the well-spoken criminal was merely spouting words and not wisdom.

A wry smile grew on the stranger's face. "Before it was a cycle. The cycle was the Nukenin would rise up and become that fear the people wish to banish out of their lives. Organizations were rising not ten years ago and down a new era." This was not something unfamiliar to the kunoichi. She herself had been part of one such organization, if only for a short time. In fact, to the best of her knowledge, she was the only surviving member. Did that make her a relic in this man's book? Looking at him, chuckling away, the woman figured he was not aware of this nugget of information. "But look at them." He pressed on. "They are shadows of their former selves, just existing because something in their minds is telling them to live. They have no purpose, no sense of direction. They are like sheep without a shepherd to guide from rushing waters." The man finished. It was clear from his words that he felt the criminal populace needed such a shepherd. Uriko began to wonder if he intended the role for himself. Some distance from them, a loud voice groaned in pain. A brief glance told both nukenin that the woman's earlier victim was beginning to suffer the poison. His fever, lethargy and deep aches would soon develop into paralysis and painful spasms. By the time he fell into a coma, it would be a relief.

Taking a drop more of his water, the talkative stranger relaxed. His voice returned to its more casual note. "I shouldn’t be asking what it is I want. I know what I want, I simply wish for a change in the world. But what do you want- Uriko was it? What is that you wish to have? That is my goal at the moment, to fulfill what it is you want." He finished. This time, Uriko took a long draught of her shochu, emptying the cup. She exhaled deeply before answering. "Oh, I'll bet it is. She smirked, a hint of sarcasm in her voice. The woman simply didn't believe anyone here would offer something for nothing. "I want peace. For myself, for now. That'll do." She sighed, tilting her head back as she did so. It wasn't far from the truth. She desired peace - for herself - but the next ten minutes would never be enough. "You really want to know?" The man nodded slowly. In a low tone, with grit and quiet fury, the kunoichi spoke. "I would to tear this world apart just so that I can sleep uninterrupted." It was no exaggeration. She turned her sharp gaze on her companion. "So enlighten me, nameless man. How can you possibly help my cause?" Uriko murmured, pouring herself yet more alcohol.

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“Do you really want to know?” she asked in a low voice. Keiro’s head made out a small nod. It was the reason why he came here in the first place so it would make sense to know what it is she truly wanted “I would tear this world apart just so I can sleep interrupted.”

It is what all men wish to have, the voice of reason, the voice of dark Keiro spoke, it is nothing more than a simple desire. One desires that you-us-could achieve.

“So enlighten me, nameless man. How can you possibly help my cause.”

"That’s right Keiro” Zurui said in an almost uplifting voice “A woman with the ability to neutralize Kekkei Genkais” Zurui’s eyes held weight with the statement as Keiro saw him almost unconsciously clean out the inside of the shot glass. Any further, Keiro thought, and he would be rubbing the glass out of existence.

“That’s…surprisingly nifty if you think about it. Just imagine if you’re surrounded by someone who can manipulate their bodies and their full skill set is surrounded by that KKG. The usefulness of that ability would turn a battle immediately.”

“Well, yes” Zurui looked uncertain about Keiro’s remark but he continued on “I would imagine that it is surprisingly useful if you were in a situation such as that...” He set the glass down on the counter and reached behind him grabbing a blue colored liquor. The color was nearly comical having the color of the sky in Konoha in a bottle. It almost looked refreshing until Keiro received a whiff of the liquid. Its harsh smell almost burned into his nose, reminding him of kerosene. He poured it slowly into the glass, almost to the top of the glass and took a slow sip of it “But Kekkei Genkai’s are ones that dominate the world. Both the shinobi and the underground are no more KKG dominate than the rain covering over this entire country. It is that fact that puts fear and hatred over her.

“The lynchpin would be the Kekkei Genkai. It is the one thing that holds the world together. Remember, in the past it was a continuous war with the Kekkei Genkai’s. Each clan wished to find who was the strongest among them. Many would conquer and many would fall to find this answer.” Zurui sighed letting more liquor fall in-between his lips, slowly sipping the harsh liquor “It was barbaric. If you think about it now you couldn’t find the sense in it. But put yourself in the shoes of one in a clan. An Uchiha or a Senju. They were taught that their ideology would be the one that would dominate the world and those who oppose them are a threat to that. Both sides fought to find its dominance like packs of wolves trying to find who is Alpha.”

“So the KKG are the lynchpin because it started to form the villages and the underworld and her power-“ Keiro treaded off as Zurui nodded his head

“Breaks that balance. By breaking it, it’ll cause the world back to its barbaric state. Both the villages and the underworld fear such a state to happen yet again. The shinobi villages, passive as they are now, wish to have this threat eliminated. Their structure that they have held onto for so long would shatter. The underworld leaders know this. The old and new generation of the underworld would not want her destroyed but rather to harness that power. The new generation are quite tired of hiding underground and wish for their reign to be quintessential ‘gods among men’ and harnessing that power would almost make them unstoppable.”

Keiro imagined a group of men around a round table, smoking cigars and drinking red or white wine discussing their intent of causing a power struggle. Zurui said it was the new generation, the younger men and women of their mafias congregating in their nice suits and attires over one woman that could bring forth Armageddon-in a hypothetical sense. “You would think the villages would do everything in their power to stop that. But that wouldn’t be smart would it? It would mean that the shinobi villages would have to come together as one to fight a threat that may or may not happen.”

“The tensions between the villages are still strong. They wouldn’t be able to agree over the type of dip to bring for the chips at a party. If you haven’t noticed-“

“I haven’t. I’ve been in prison for six years remember?”

“Right.” Zurui nodded his head, forgetting that little tidbit of information “Well, the villages are trying to gather every bijuu in their war machine to gain a stronger stance in their global ‘dominance’ to say.”

“I’m guessing they haven’t been successful in finding the bijuu and potential jinchuuriki’s right?”

“Correct. Because of that little factor they have to-make up for their loss by adding more capable shinobi into their ranks. If they have a Kekkei Genkai, they’ll rise up quite nicely in both rank and power.”

“But if there is one woman-or several in the hypothesis of creating more that neutralizes-that could potentially cut their power in half almost literally…”

Zurui took two gulps of the kerosene drink and let out a harsh sigh. How could he drink that stuff Keiro had no intention of finding out. Zurui didn’t look flush or showed any indication of him being tipsy. “Yes, you can see where this is going. It would crush all oppositions. If a man has a Kekkei Genkai and half or three fourths of the man is the Kekkei Genkai, that cuts that man down to little more than half or a fourth. You can imagine the possibilities and scenarios that follow.”

The scenario played in his head over and over when Keiro was making his trip to Bear. He thought the words that Zurui had spoke about her breaking the lynchpin of the world causing disorder to an unsuspecting world. Many would believe her to be the key to the safety of the Nukenin but she just made them a large priority-or rather a bigger threat-to handle. Uriko knew that she was a threat. She knew that any organization that took her in would not only make her a viable ‘lynchpin’ in their ground but also creates worry to those who try to oppose them. Was that the reason why the Shantakai had found her? Did that group understand that she was no more a tool than a hammer is a tool for blacksmith? Keiro wondered if it would be wise to take that leap in assisting Uriko in finding peace. Wherever she walked she would find an opposition, no one would assist her knowing full well she was a woman who slept with blades. She was more than a blade sleeping woman, Keiro thought, she is a woman who sleeps with death itself and death is a selfish type. If it couldn’t have her then everything she touch will die, everyone that came near her would die.

She walked a lonely path that stretched endlessly in a void and accepted this as fact. Keiro was not walking that same as her but the goal was the same. He also wanted peace. Not with himself, he wanted peace with those around him. An odd goal for a man like Keiro but in order for him to obtain peace many will to follow in that direction.

“I can offer you one thing.” He points to himself “I am able bodied and determine to find those who would try and crush you Uriko. I may not seem much to you. You probably see me nothing more than a man with a handsome face telling you something that you already heard of before and is trying to sweet talk you with needless words.” Keiro’s face harden, not losing its cool edge that radiated off of him “I’m not. I’ve lost many things-many things that I can never get back. It would be cruel of me to promise a person peace with no weight behind it.”

He looked back at the man on the ground. His life essence had faded, the ghost leaving the body. The giant man was now nothing more than matter taking up space now. Keiro had the feeling that the man who had threatened to rip apart Uriko was not alone in this place. It may have been foolish to send just one man to be canon fodder to the wolves like that. The thought process went through his head at the speed of light. Someone else is here. Someone followed her in…did they follow me in? Perhaps but I’m sure they had no intention of following me. He came in drunk, someone gave him a lot of money spend to receive that many drinks. He became intoxicated, couldn’t think straight. His mind was beginning to be overflowed with emotions of this character that Uriko despises and decides it was best to test her out. He was foolish-but someone devised that fool to create an opening for this person to see…

Someone’s eyes were hovering over them Keiro felt. It was a strong sense, not the wandering eyes of the Nukenin who sat in groups but rather a man with the intent of watching and following and that was his only goal. He didn’t know where the exact location of this particular but this feeling was strong in him.

“I offer myself as one to find those who are trying to hunt you down. You may be strong Uriko but there are those out in the world who have not only strength in numbers but also the wealth to continuously hunt you until you are captured…”

“I, Hateshini, Keiro, will assist you”

Age : 35 Posts : 1113

Thinking the man's ambition to be far beyond his grasp, and confident that he would have no satisfactory answer to her question, Uriko waited patiently. He took a few moments to compose his reply, as surely he needed to do to impress the kunoichi. In the silence, it became apparent that the large assailant from earlier had collapsed and fallen unconscious, his limbs jerking spasmodically. Having dehydrated himself from overuse of alcohol, the toxin had taken ahold of his physical functions sooner than it usually would. And now... panic. Uriko mused, watching as the brutish man's companions noticed his condition. Had they thought he was simply drunk and disorderly until now? Regardless, it amused the woman to watch as their expressions turned to blind fear. Each of the comatose man's nukenin band pushed their drinks aside, suspicious of the contents. People liked to feel able to control their fate. It was curious to observe, given that every one of them had seen their fellow criminal's tussle with the one-armed kunoichi. "People." The woman muttered, shaking her head slightly.

By now, the charming criminal beside her had prepared his response. Bringing a finger to point vaguely towards himself, he spoke with assurance. "I can offer you one thing. I am able bodied and determine to find those who would try and crush you Uriko." Odd, for a stranger to be so comitted to offering assistance. Were it not for the fact they were meeting in such a place, Uriko might have thought him a regular, law-abiding shinobi. Either way, the woman resolved to get to the bottom of the mystery. But first, the man continued his speech. "I may not seem much to you. You probably see me nothing more than a man with a handome face telling you something that you already heard of before and is trying to sweet talk you with needless words." He was not wrong - though the kunoichi had to admit she found him increasingly interesting. Whether this was a positive reflection or not, only time would tell. As if on cue, the male nukenin's features fell, echoing the more serious tones he had hinted at earlier in their conversation. "I’m not. I’ve lost many things - many things that I can never get back. It would be cruel of me to promise a person peace with no weight behind it." At this, Uriko made a mental note to press for more details. More often than not, the past dictated present actions. It had for the kunoichi. Would it be any different for this man?

"Of course, our goal is peace, my dear. But none of us take such a claim lightly. We do so with understanding of the hardship and sacrifice it entails." Was it a genuine claim? Uriko had believed it and subsequently fought for it, even facing down death on a number of occasions. It was interesting now, to look back and wonder what had made such a cause so contagious. The instigator was key - in this case, Heiki - but without true believers he was just another outcast with maniacal ideas. Those words had been his answer to the kunoichi's probing and after, she had, albeit tentatively, accepted his offer. She had felt the conviction with which he spoke but now, with eye-opening hindsight, she only felt cheated. Heiki had lost control of the organization and when only Uriko remained, determined to see this promised world, he had deserted her. There had been no confrontation, no parting words or apology. In the end, he had failed in his plan and been too cowardly to face his followers. Musing over her past, the kunoichi realised that even then, twenty-seven years of age and as world-worn as those three times her age, she had been incredibly naive. All of the holes in their schemes were now as clear as day and she realised that faith alone had kept the group alive. "It has to be more, much more than that." Uriko muttered under her breath. Oh, child. A mocking voice echoed inside her mind. The woman instinctively bit her lip, hard enough to draw blood. The mild pain seemed to banish the disembodied voice for now.

Quite suddenly, the woman became aware that her companion's attention was not fully on their conversation. After glancing at the fallen thug, his muscles had tightened ever so slightly, his heartbeat just that little bit faster. He did a good job of hiding it, but the medical expert had such penetrating eyes. Something was distracting him, making him nervous even. If his suspicions were correct - whatever they were - he was a damn sight more perceptive than Uriko had assumed. She herself had yet to realise what had caused this moment of uncertainty. Or maybe the woman had been on the alert ever since she walked in. Her face would always draw some attention amongst her fellow nukenin, after all. Whatever the danger, it clearly wasn't a serious enough concern as the man snapped back to the matter at hand only a moment later. He even picked up exactly where he left off. "I offer myself as one to find those who are trying to hunt you down. You may be strong Uriko but there are those out in the world who have not only strength in numbers but also the wealth to continuously hunt you until you are captured… I, Hateshini, Keiro, will assist you." He finished. At last the balance was addressed - Uriko finally had a name to put to the handsome face. After a slow sip of her shochu, the woman cocked her head and smiled wryly. "Let's imagine for a minute, that you aren't gravely underestimating my tenacity." She began, her expression as unreadable as ever. "Do you have the skill to commit to your vow?" She inquired.

A searching question, one that invited a demonstration. But now was hardly the best of times - and the location poorer still. "You talk a good game, Keiro." Uriko murmured, somewhat begrudgingly. It was rare that the hardened kunoichi handed out compliments. "And I get the impression you a far better informed than you have led me to believe." She added, between sips of alcohol. Sighing, she wrinkled her nose with indecision. A few seconds later, she spoke again. "I was never some random barfly, was I? Despite my best attempts, a few of these idiots at least -" Uriko gestured vaguely to the various criminals around the room. "- will have heard of me. But a name is all they have." She took a long pause before finishing her point. When she did, the woman caught Keiro's gaze and held it firmly. "What is it that you know?" She asked the man, her tone suggesting that it would be a fool's choice to lie to her now. Whatever this man had pledged, his intentions were still a mystery. And the kunoichi felt at a distinct disadvantage. She had been plied with confident speeches and hints at something greater in the pair's future, but in terms of straight answers, all she had was 'Hateshini Keiro'; no more than a strapline to a rough drawing in her copy of the bingo book.

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There it was again. That feeling of someone’s eyes hovering over them. It was the feeling of someone breathing down his neck like in a ghost story only for him to turn around and find out that there is no one there but empty space. Keiro had that instinctive feeling to turn around and look to see where those hovering eyes were originating from but it wouldn’t do him any good. If the man-or woman-had intent of just watching and not trying to expose herself to them then she was doing her job fairly well. The large open space, the variety of people mixing in, the noises of their voices, the smell of the liquor all of it was blending in as one. Keiro would be like trying to pick out a small bay leaf out of a large vat of soup. It would be impossible at this very moment.

His eyes did keep grip with Uriko’s. He said what he had to say, said his name. It was a double edge sword. On one hand, it gave her the image of him not entirely giving her a con. She could already tell that it was his true name and not a false identity he created out of thin air. On the other hand, she could use his name against him if she needed to. If Keiro had any ideas-like betrayal for instance-she would not hesitate to find him and slit his throat. She could do it; he didn’t doubt that she couldn’t. She was one who could be-can be-persistent. That look in her eye told him of a lone wanderer who had every intention of hunting those that could potentially harm her without a second thought. It wasn’t the fact of her power but rather her persistence was more than enough to put Keiro in a corner.

A lone wolf hunting another wolf, he compared. Keiro took a sip of his water and pondered as she spoke, letting the words almost entangle him "Let's imagine for a minute, that you aren't gravely underestimating my tenacity." She spoke with no emotion for him to analysis “Do you have the skill to commit to your vow?”

He didn’t answer. It wasn’t that the answer wasn’t available. It can be a direct answer to her. Could he demonstrate his skills in hand to hand? Not a hard task to do but not the appropriate thing to do when they were in a place where fighting was prohibit. Well not prohibit, just look down upon. That bartender wasn’t exactly trying to reach underneath the bar counter and pull out a large broadsword saying “Knock it off you three.” He was trying to find the appropriate reaction, the proper card to pull out in this slow poker game.

What stopped him from getting up and perhaps trying to find that person who was watching them was what Uriko said after she asked for him to prove himself. “You talk a good talk, Keiro…and I get the impression you are far better informed than you have led me to believe.” She took a sip of her drink, the smell of it slightly sweet but bitter to Keiro, let the drink mellow in her throat and continued "I was never some random barfly, was I? Despite my best attempts, a few of these idiots at least -" she gestured to the patrons “-will have heard of me. But a name is all they have…What is it that you know?”

He lowered his voice to a low voice, inaudible to anyone that wasn’t inches away from him “Nagase…the clan that allows one to purify…” he paused trying to find something to make it seem more creative. Fuck it he decided “To put it simpler terms, you have the ability to neutralize Kekkei Genkais. Feared by many, both by the villages and by the organizations you once worked for.

“I can’t say I know exactly everything about you. I obviously don’t know what your favorite drink is or what is your favorite color but I do know that you were once in an organization known as the Shantakai. It was an organization that once threatens the stabilities of the shinobi world at one point. It was because of one kages decision to end it in a-“ his hand made a quick open gesture “bang…the organization was thought to be destroyed. The leader’s apprentice was the only one who survived and formed the new Shantakai in which you joined. Soon after…the organization just suddenly vanishes, disbanded, destroyed…it doesn’t really matter how it happen but the results came in mind that the hope this group once had for the missing nin had dissipated and those who worked for this man went their separate ways.” Keiro had hypothesize that because of this event, the missing nin around the world had found sanctuary within smaller, less organized groups that faded away from villages like Amegakure and Otogakure. He didn’t believe it was the one absolute reason why the missing nin are like what they are now because of this Shantakai but he believed that it was the driving nail to the already crumbling rock that was hammered in.

“I do know that you were also in a group before you became a member in the Shantakai but that’s about all that I know from that part of your history. You’re a skilled medical shinobi,” he continued “Far better skilled than anyone I’ve met of your age. I’ve already seen that you’re a very capable fighter even with the lack of one arm and I know that you do like Shochu quite a lot. Other than that, I do not know anymore than on a superficial level.” He was told more, far more from Zurui but Keiro did not think it would benefit him if he told her everything on the subject. For sake of them both, it would be better to keep things in the dark.

He took a sip of water then remembering something he forgot to add. “Oh…there is one more thing that you may or may not know. Hypothetically answering your hypothetical question, if I didn’t undermine your abilities, I would say that you could potentially find out and kill those who are after you…They don’t want you dead. Not by a long shot. Killing you would be like destroying a gold mine in a sense. All that precious metal lost forever in a abyss that can never be open again. No…I say that you are strong because you are strong and there is nothing in this world that could say otherwise-“ he paused, the feeling of the presence wavering over them was becoming stronger. This person was close, very close. She had the audacity to walk among the crowd but did not dare get up close. “-however, what they have is something you lack and that is an army. These people will do anything to make sure you are taken and be used by them for whatever it is they want.

“You break the balance, the lynchpin of all things is centered and you tip that scale. They hate and fear you like they fear the existence of God. If they knew something like that exist in the world…they would do whatever it is to destroy it-but in this case, control it. They wish to hide in the shadows but what I can offer is something much darker than shadows. I can give you powerful connections…”

That feeling was strong, almost put into existence. Now this person was about to make the move. Keiro’s fingertips rolled on the counter, waiting for it happen. He was becoming eager for something like this to happen.

Age : 35 Posts : 1113

However important the little chat between the pair was to Keiro, he was still unable to keep his attention solely on the conversation. It was quite masterful actually, managing to speak clearly whilst having half an eye on his surroundings. Whatever it was that had put his hackles up, Uriko was equally concerned. Not because of the threat itself – she felt no fear in that respect – it was the fact that her current companion seemed far more attuned to the danger than she did. The thought that he might have sensory skills crossed her mind, but he was evidently uncertain in his wariness. In the kunoichi’s experience, sensor-nin returned firm findings, without ambiguity. So then, was it complacency on Uriko’s part? She felt uncomfortable at the thought. Indeed, her strength and infamy had grown to a point where only those bound by duty to their village would attack the woman. But this was not a concrete law, and the one-armed lady had made many enemies. There was a third possibility. The unidentified assailant-to-be was not here for the woman at all, but for her drinking partner. Uriko had observed Keiro carefully, but saw little to make her think he would have murderous opposition. Unless... he knew something. This was turning out to exceed expectations for entertainment value. Perhaps, we should wait. The kunoichi mused. If someone sought to harm the young man, he would be forced to defend himself. Uriko couldn’t deny she was curious to see how he coped with open combat. She had pegged the man as a con-artist, a fraudulent type and not a fighter. Maybe we’ll have that demonstration after all. The woman thought to herself.

If it came to a physical encounter, Uriko was hopeful that the young man would defy her intial assessment. Examining him more closely now, she could see how well-apportioned his muscle mass was. Such was the precision in balancing strength and weight that the kunoichi began to wonder what drove Keiro to these lengths. A person's secrets were not so easily extracted, especially without the option of torture. Uriko knew she might have to settle for not knowing, in this instance. Regardless, the physique was prefectly honed for close combat. This was of great interest to the female nukenin, being quite adept in this field of expertise too. It by no means eclipsed her medical talent for which she was famed, but rather complimented it beautifully. Before she got carried away with her hopes of a taijutsu show, Uriko reminded herself that her first thought had run to fraudster. It was the youthful features, the charismatic smile. Sure, she could tell he'd experienced hardship, but Keiro hadn't yet been to the darkest pits of existence. He would not have returned with a body or a mind as unblemished if he had. And even making such considerations, Uriko couldn't find a visible scar anywhere. Was he simply that naturally gifted in hand to hand exchanges? The woman pondered the chances of him having old wounds beneath his clothing. It wasn't long before she had become lost in her own thoughts.

"...ability to neutralize Kekkei Genkai. Feared by many, both by the villages and by the organizations you once worked for." It was only now that Uriko realised she had been drifting apart from the conversation. Fortunately, she had been brought back to attention by a mildly alarming discovery. Keiro knew of her ability. The female nukenin showed no sign of reaction on her face, but behind those amber eyes had begun to view the man with suspicion. The Idaten was no secret, but it was information very few were privy too. Obviously, the great village elders and their Kages had been made aware – most likely by the inhabitants of Uriko’s former home in Kusagakure. Though in truth, they had been as eager to see her dead as her shinobi pursuers. What else did this strange man know? The woman kept quiet, hoping to find out. "I can’t say I know exactly everything about you. I obviously don’t know what your favourite drink is or what is your favourite colour..." Keiro began. "...but I do know that you were once in an organization known as the Shantakai. It was an organization that threatened the stability of the shinobi world at one point. It was because of one Kage’s decision to end it in a bang that the organization was thought to be destroyed. The leader’s apprentice was the only one who survived and formed the new Shantakai which you joined." The kunoichi raised an eyebrow. The Shantakai had been a fairly guarded group, to most they simply existed and that was it. But this well-spoken criminal knew at least a little of their history; even about Heiki. "Soon after, the organization suddenly vanishes, disbanded, destroyed... it doesn’t really matter how it happened. But the results came in mind that the hope this group once had for the missing-nin had dissipated and those who worked for this man went their separate ways." Uriko started to get the feeling she knew where this was headed.

At this point, the stern-faced lady decided to interject. She felt uneasy letting a relative stranger talk of her past and not to offer some comment herself. "It’s true that when the Shantakai collapsed, a power vacuum arose that threatened our numbers. I’m sure you experienced it too – small splinter groups fighting each other, most commanded by two-bit thieves with ideas above their station." Though no less concerned by Keiro’s intel, the woman seemed happy to talk more openly now. "Not my fault." She sniffed, dismissing the very notion out of hand. "I survived them all." She muttered quietly, speaking of her former colleagues. Her companion went on to mention her earlier years as a criminal (but clearly had little knowledge of such times) before dropping a few well-placed compliments. Mercifully, it appeared his library of knowledge concerning the criminal woman had been more or less exhausted. Only a fool shares his gold. The kunoichi reminded herself. The likelihood was that what Keiro had shared only scratched the surface of what he actually knew. This made him both dangerous; and somewhat senseless. But he must have known that Uriko could kill him now just to keep him silent. She detected no falsities about him, which meant that he was genuinely here to exchange words and (eventually) walk away unscathed. This had better be good. The female nukenin found herself thinking.

Fortunately, Keiro had more to say. "Oh, there is one more thing that you may or may not know. Hypothetically answering your hypothetical question, if I didn’t undermine your abilities, I would say that you could potentially find out and kill those who are after you. They don’t want you dead, not by a long shot. Killing you would be like destroying a gold mine – in a sense. All that precious metal lost forever in an abyss that can never be opened again. No... I say that you are strong because you are strong and there is nothing in this world that could say otherwise." He explained, firmly. Flattery will get you everywhere. A snickering voice whispered, somewhere at the back of Uriko’s mind. She simply ignored the taunt, all too familiar with these kinds of interruptions. The male nukenin had stopped for a moment too. The woman noticed the restraint he exercised as he held his gaze over her, instead of searching for this threat he had perceived. The kunoichi had given up worrying about it herself. If attacked, she would react. If not, she would enjoy the show. "However, what they have is something you lack and that is an army. These people will do anything to make sure you are taken and be used by them for whatever it is they want." With that, it appeared Keiro had finished. Whether cut short by his desire to concentrate on his environment, Uriko did not know. But she was thankful of a chance to mull things over.

Give someone like Uriko Nagase an army? The kunoichi had never been one for commanding others, preferring to live by that well-known creed that if one wanted it done properly, they should do it themselves. But Keiro had raised a sore, but significant point. Without numbers of her side, what could a lone kunoichi hope to achieve? "You break the balance, the lynchpin of all things is centred and you tip that scale. They hate and fear you like they fear the existence of God. If they knew something like that exist in the world, they would do whatever it is to destroy it – or in this case, control it." Really? The woman wondered. She’d faced down a fair few who seemed quite happy to kill rather than capture her. "I can give you powerful connections…" Keiro added, tailing off as Uriko took it all in. A few minutes ago she had told her companion that she would gladly wreak widespread destruction if it meant peace for herself. Alone, it was no more than a child’s fantasy but with support, it became a genuine threat. Speaking of genuine threats… Uriko reminded herself, making a note to press the young man for more details of this 'army' at a later date. "Perhaps we should put this particular topic on hold for now." She murmured. "You appear to have a more pressing matter to discuss, Hateshini Keiro." She spoke quietly, but remained casual in posture and expression. If there was a danger, discretion was a worthwhile endeavour.

Posts : 760

"Perhaps we should put this particular topic on hold for now." She murmured. "You appear to have a more pressing matter to discuss, Hateshini Keiro."

The place filled with a thick, humid feeling around them like walking outside on a hot, summer day feeling the warm sun push down on his body. It was a collective of people, not just one Keiro knew now and they had surrounded them. He wondered if the idea of surrounding them would be a good idea, not seeing the potential consequence of their actions. It wouldn’t occur to the few people that were attempting to apprehend Keiro and Uriko the utter futility of it all. It was like small dogs cornering two large and dangerous wolves in a corner. It almost seem like a good idea first to find a golden opportunity to sink their teeth into the wolves until it was too late to find that these wolves were not just all bark but mostly teeth.

One of men grabbed Keiro’s shoulder attempting to turn him around. Keiro had quickly grabbed the empty cup he had drank water from and allowed the man to turn him. The man had a large turban around his head, mild skin tone with a brutish look to his appearance. No bigger than six feet two inches and his biceps the size of a melon, the man could definitely put some weight behind a punch. His arm was cocked back and was in mid swing to Keiro’s chin. Keiro had skillfully used the cup as a mere weapon and slammed it hard into the man’s face. The cup shatter cutting deep into the man’s face. Keiro heard a woman scream in the back, quick almost like a small dogs bark. She seems to realize that something was going on but was trying not to draw attention to her own self. Every part of the man’s face had now been covered with tiny shards. His hands immediately drew back onto his face letting out a ear shattering yelp. He put his hands on his face but drew it back feeling the glass almost press further into his skin. Keiro was off the chair now on his feet. He didn’t have any intention of hurting anyone but seeing the potential of these men were attempting to kill Keiro, it was wise for him to not hold back. Besides, it was a moment for Keiro to display his skill to Uriko. Feel like I’m sixteen again trying to impress the girl I want to go on a date for. But instead of him using charming tactics of wit, guile and finesse to get a date or a kiss, he was using his wit, guile and combat skills to-well, no there was nothing different about it. Keiro’s hands grabbed the back of the man’s hand and drew his head down as Keiro’s had hop slightly in the air with his knee out. His knee made contact with the man’s head. There was the crunch of the glass driving further into his skin and also the crunch of his nose driving hard into his head. The man’s body fell on top of a table splitting it in half. The two bar patrons sitting around it didn’t move as they saw both their drinks and nuts be crushed by a dead man’s body.

Keiro saw the two other men go for Uriko. Goodnight he said to them in his mind. She would handle them nicely. No reason why he should involve his style of martial arts with hers, not when they were far from being sync at this point. There was one other man who had jumped from two tables to reach to Keiro. He was in mid-air with a large scimitar in hand in the thrusting position. “Mid-air? Really?” Keiro kicked up a bar stool like a ball and then kicked it again into the man. The man fell back but he regained himself as he landed cutting the stool in two.

“You seriously watch too many ninja movies to pull the mid-air rush at someone…in a bar no less.” Keiro quipped “Wanna try that again?” Keiro gestured him to come, his stance ready and prepared. He was on both feet bouncing and had one arm up and cocked in front of him while the other was low his stomach.

The man dashed at Keiro, his position with the sword in a thrusting position. He thrust at Keiro chest but he moved his body to avoid it. The man then drew back quickly to swing at Keiro’s neck. Keiro ducked down and then twisted around with his feet positioning himself two feet to the side of the man. Keiro made a noise with his throat, the noise he remembered his father had made whenever he fought a man hand to hand. “Waaahhhhaaaahhh….” It was high sounding but soft in its voice. He began circling around the man, his feet shuffling a bit like a boxer in the ring. The man was eying with Keiro trying to keep contact. He was no martial artist Keiro thought. He’s a swordsman but a bad one at that. He was hearing his father saying to Keiro that if the opponent was looking into your eyes trying to soul view you then take advantage of such an opportunity. Nine times out of ten the opponent was not looking at any other part of the body and a moment’s look to see what action the body was making, it would be too late.

Keiro dashed in. The man had the scimitar in one hand now trying to use the other hand to grab Keiro. Keiro had his right hand draw a heavy punch into the man’s solar plexus. He was no weak man that was for sure, he was always stronger than most taijutsu users, ones that gave up strength for speed. The man let out a dry heave, the grip on his sword weakening. “The moment of opportunity” his mind claimed and he opened that door. His left hand grabbed the swordsman hand with the scimitar and began to crush his wrist. The bones immediately crunched under Keiro’s strong grip and the man let out a yelp that was maybe more ear shattering the man with the glass in his face. The scimitar fell out of the man’s hand falling onto the bar floor. He let go of the man’s hand and proceeded quickly to wrap his arm around the scimitar man’s arm. It was constricting the way Keiro did it and with the leverage Keiro made with his body, the scimitar man was leaning back with his knees almost to the ground. What was holding him from falling was Keiro holding him up. The quick moment of shock was all Keiro needed for the driving blow as his right hand drew back grabbing one of his kunai and proceeded to stab the man both in the neck and then in the chest. The death yells of the man was sweet to the voice in Keiro’s head, spurts of hot blood rushed onto Keiro’s shirt and part of his face.

“Where is the fifth one-“ Keiro was about to say only to find a giant fist coming straight for the Keiro’s head. “Shi-“ He drew out as he used the dead man’s body as a shield. The force of the punch pushed Keiro back ten feet from his position, sliding across the barroom floor. The criminals of this place hadn’t necessarily run away like crowd stricken villagers but Keiro noticed there were fewer around. Most of them must’ve gotten out while Keiro was dealing with the dead scimitar man and the dead man with glass in his face.

He threw the scimitar’s body down on ground and looked at the giant man that punched him. “Oh this is pleasant.” It was the man that confronted Uriko not five minutes ago. His body seems to tower even more as his seven foot self was moving towards Keiro in a slow, zombie state. This guy is definitely dead Keiro reasoned. He was being controlled, someone in the room was doing it but Keiro could not tell who it was. The fifth person that had surrounded both Keiro and Uriko had vanished when the fight broke out. Probably to prepare this dead body. The sickness that Uriko put into the man was still eating at his face, part of his skin was falling off like melted cheese off of a burger. The comparison almost made Keiro a vegetarian-almost.

“Look like you’ve seen better days. I like what you did to your face.” Keiro’s quipped again. Whoever that was listening to Keiro talk would draw a superficial conclusion that Keiro was trying to be snarky and they would be right to conclude that but Keiro always did it due to some people actually having some effect to such comments. He was moving back from the man, trying to see how this would play out. Stall for time, Keiro though, stall for time “It may be time for you to get that new covergirl, I heard the summer variety is good-“ he had stop short as the man’s fist was made its way into the floor board of the bar. The dead man’s arm was stuck as he heard the zombie grunting trying to pull it out. Attacking the body of the zombie wouldn’t do him any good. He would be wasting his time trying to wear the body down. He had to find the source of the puppeteer. Keiro looked across the room trying to find anyone who was moving just a bit, not even a lot Keiro knew. If the person was trying to draw attention, it would’ve been obvious. No, this person would be drawing the least attention and would be making his or her way out of this place.

The zombie finally pulled his arm free from the flooring, making grunt noises as if he was a real living zombie. He moved forward, now charging at Keiro. The puppeteer was trying to draw his attention away from his location now that Keiro realized this. Keiro dashed forward then vaulted over the large man. “Sorry, love to stick around and chat but I got a date and you’re totally killing the mood.” The zombie stopped immediately, almost unrealistically and began to float backwards at rushing speeds as if he was being pulled back by a power magnet. Keiro slid underneath a table and began sliding on the floor; his hand consciously grabbing the scimitar then rose up off from the floor and threw the scimitar at the zombie puppet. The force of the scimitar pierce into the man’s chest and pinned the zombie into the wall. There was a slight shift in the crowd as one person was moving in crowd towards the exit. Keiro dashed forward like a blur into the entrance almost bum rushing into four or five people.

He stood in doorway blocking the one person who was wearing a hood. The person in the hood stopped, taking a step back. “Yes, really hiding yourself with a hood really works in this situation.” There was soft muttering coming from the man. “Nice words. I believe that woman over there has some things to say to you…or rather some things to do to you.”

Now the man spoke up clearly “Oh…fuck me sideways…”

Age : 35 Posts : 1113

It had been a recurring source of mystery to Uriko that most humans seemed to ‘know’ when they were being watched. A mild, prickly feeling to the back of the neck that could almost be described as a sixth sense. There was no scientific or logical explanation for it and the woman had to make do calling it intuition. But she had often wondered whether there was more to it than that and if so, what else might be possible with such a discovery. Right now, the kunoichi was experiencing the very thing. Removing herself from the conversation with Keiro, she closed her eyes and focused her attention on listening, trying to single out individual sounds in her environment. Patrons sharing stories, eager to impress with gritty tales. The clang of cups, tankards and glasses as they knocked into each other, the wooden tables or sometimes, the ale-strewn floorboards. Laughing, almost cackling, from the current victor in the gambling den. A distinct silence from one corner of the room, revealed only by the muffled sound of cloth on cloth as whoever occupied the area moved around. Footsteps, approaching the bar with regular and sinister rhythm. Uriko’s eyes flicked open. A shadow of a smile crossed her face as she brought her ceramic cup to her lips, emptying the last few drops. Beside her, Keiro gripped his glassware too, before spinning on his chair and slamming it into the face of a burly man who had just tried to accost him. The one-armed lady turned to face the commotion, watching with interest and hoping to learn more of her companion.

There was shouting and swift movement in some areas of the treehouse, a good number of criminals seeking the nearest exit. Others were content to observe from afar and some didn’t even look up from their own activities. These were the men and women who were not to be disturbed. Uriko herself often played this role, eager to keep intruders away. I hope he can make it quick and clean. She thought to herself as Keiro got to his feet, ready to defend against the remaining attackers. Crunch. The satisfying noise brought a wicked grin to the woman’s face as the man in question brought his knee smashing into his earlier victim’s face, breaking again the shards of glass that had been left embedded across his features. The female nukenin let out a mometary giggle at the sight, before having to adopt a more serious mind as two of the assailants came for her. The first jabbed a rough-looking blade in Uriko’s direction and the other attacked unarmed. Hopping off her seat, the woman slid her right foot between the legs of the stool and spun it around and away, straight into the path of the sword. When the weapon struck the gap between the wooden back support, the kunoichi flicked her foot again and the blade twisted off to the side. Simultaneously, Uriko used the armor on her forearm to re-direct the firm fist of the other man, before using the momentum to wrap her arm around his and pull him close, his back pressed against her chest. In one smooth motion, she spun the man in her clutches away, letting the hidden wrist blade flit out and slice his throat as he fell. Continuing on, she turned on the spot and pressed the palm up against the other man’s neck. He made a satisfying gurgle as the woman pulled her secret weapon from his throat, letting the body slump to the floor.

Having been distracted for a few moments, Uriko was annoyed to find she had missed some of the fight between Keiro and the other men of this ill-fated group. A few metres away, a scimitar-wielding thug crouched amongst splintered wood and what looked like the remains of a barstool. Oh, an opportunist. The kunoichi mused. She recognized some of her own strategies in Keiro’s ability to utilize his surroundings, from drinking vessel to wooden chair. A resourceful ally was usually a welcome one, though Uriko had yet to make up her mind in this case. "Wanna try that again?" The young man mocked, gesturing for his opponent to attack. Unsurprisingly, he did, thrusting his sword at the nukenin and following with a wild slash. The woman however, was more interested in her companion’s unusual stance. He seemed to favour agility over steadfastness, bouncing from foot to the other as he bobbed and weaved around the attacks. And then, without warning, he uttered a high-pitched war cry to… taunt his target? Or was it a means of psyching himself up? Uriko began to sense that Keiro took taijutsu as a lifestyle rather than a tool. Putting his light-footed stance to good use, the young man darted in toward his opponent, disabling his sword-hand with a bone-cracking grip before hugging him tight for similar effect. The thug was brought to his knees before the man, who ending his suffering with a quick kunai to his neck and chest. As the kunai was not as discreet as the blade Uriko had used, blood spurted back at Keiro from the wounds he had just opened. He did not seem to mind.

Happy just to sit and watch now, the one-armed woman said nothing as the great brute from before rose up to assault her companion. She was surprised to see a re-animation technique at use, especially since she had left the hulking man in a comatose state. Though truthfully, once he had fallen she’d paid him little attention. It was quite possible someone else had quietly finished him off in order to use him like this at a later stage. Putrefaction brought an unholy smell to most nostrils, but Uriko was no longer aware of its unpleasant nature. Whilst more criminals made a beeline for the staircase, she simply looked on unaffected. Keiro had been struck hard, pushing him back some ten or so feet. The force had also dislodged a little of the dead flesh from the dead man’s face, which now hung loosely by his jaw. Naturally, it came from the cheek where the kunoichi’s toxin had been applied, the cells around that area likely weaker than the rest. The large walking corpse was imposing as ever, but had grown even slower since re-animation. By comparison, Keiro was already on his feet and hopping away in his prepared stance. "This fight’s already over." Uriko muttered to herself, walking across to the more recent victims. As the fight continued around her, the woman kneeled by each and every fallen body, pressing her fingers up against their throats to search for a pulse. She found none until she came to the man whose face had been lacerated by shards of glass. He was dying, but had not yet passed. When that faint throb reached the kunoichi’s fingertips, she moved her wrist so that the blade shot out and eased the man into death. Her subtlety would go unnoticed.

The lumbering foe had been crashing about the place, breaking tables and floorboards wherever he went. Keiro seemed content enough to dance around his slow attacks, until he saw a chance present itself. Leaping over the brute, he skidded underneath an empty table and grabbed the scimitar from the floor. Rolling to his feet he turned and threw it fiercely, impaling the undead assailant to a nearby wall. For reasons Uriko would soon discover, Keiro then abandoned his victim and went in search of another. Cleaning up was not a task that was beneath the woman, and so she made her way over to the trapped foe. Without even a second glance, she whipped her katana from its sheath and severed the rotting head from the body. It tumbled to the floor with a sickening thud. Elsewhere, it appeared that Keiro had discovered the source of the reanimation technique and had brought him forward. The cloaked man was dragged out of the crowd as Uriko approached. "Nice words." She heard her companion sneer. "I believe that woman over there has some things to say to you… or rather, some things to do to you." He said, unable to hide a twinge of satisfaction in his voice. There was a pause while the cowed man registered the kunoichi’s presence and came to terms with his fate. "Oh, fuck me si-" He began, cut off when a short katana plunged into his shoulder.

Roaring as the steel slid through his flesh, he was soon gritting his teeth to withhold the pleasure of torture from the two nukenin. Catching Keiro’s gaze, the woman issued a quick command. "Gag him, bind him with wire." She instructed, sliding the blade out again. As her companion set about his task, the kunoichi continued impaling her victim in various, non-lethal places. She was also careful not to go near any vital blood vessels, so that he wouldn’t bleed out too quickly and spoil her fun. After some fifteen incisions had been made, wire was tightly wrapped around the man’s entire body and his mouth had been bound shut, Uriko took him by the scruff of the neck and dragged him to a now empty booth across from the bar. As the pair sat down, she threw their captive into a corner and formed a few seals. A few seconds passed before muffled cries of agony erupted from the helpless prisoner. The technique brought any injuries of those nearby back to their freshest state, as if they had just that second been applied. So whilst Keiro might feel a slight pain in his jaw where the undead thug had struck him, Uriko’s victim would be constantly feeling every incision as if it were just being made – all at the same time. Ignoring his muted screams, the woman turned to her companion. "An impressive display of hand-to-hand techniques, though you use a stance unfamiliar to me. Dedicated as I think you are, I’m sure you’ll have quite a reputation in a few years – if you so wish." She spoke almost deadpan, having always found it difficult to offer compliments to another. Moving on, she continued with a different subject. "So perhaps you can tell me, why exactly these men were here?" She asked, wondering why on earth such poorly-trained individuals would attack two dangerous nukenin, one of whom was regarded as an exceptional threat. "I certainly don’t plan on asking our ‘friend’". The woman added as an afterthought, nodding in their captive’s direction.

Technique(s):

Spoiler:

Posts : 760

Uriko plunged a katana deep into the puppeteers shoulder. He definitely heard muscle rip through as the sheer force entered into that part of the shoulder and then exit it out. She held no remorse to those who attack her, but in honesty she had every reason to impale him with the blade seeing that it was just a foolish attempt to kill them. But Keiro was taken aback seeing that the opponents were not all that strong. They were not very strong mercenaries and they were probably the lowest of shinobi in form. So why would they send a rag tag group such as the scimitar man and the glass head man after them?

Keiro’s eyes met Uriko’s. ”Gag him, bind him with wire.” She instructed, having not the slightest of patience with this. Keiro didn’t hesitate and quickly dispatch the man with the wires first tying his hands behind his back, which was received with a pleasant scream near Keiro’s ear, and then he bound his ankles. He looked around to find any cloth material when he saw a dirty table rag off on a flipped table. He used that to gag the man’s mouth. “Sorry about that” he said with a witty smile. When he was done dealing with the puppeteer, he stood up and walked over to the spot where he had sat. He bent down and grabbed the satchel he had carried into the bar. It was a tad bit soaked with water and had mild splotches of blood on it now but Keiro wasn’t one to complain about the tidiness of a satchel. It would’ve eventually gotten dirty. He sighed and stood up, throwing the satchel over his shoulder.

Uriko dragged the man by the neck and pulled him to a booth in the far corner of the room. Keiro was frank in this thoughts seeing no point of going in a corner but it would be kind of awkward trying to hold up a bound man on a stool trying to discuss what had happen over a cold brew on the counter. Keiro cracked his neck and made a grunt noise in his throat. He threw the satchel over on the empty part of the booth and sat next to it looking at Uriko and the bound puppeteer. ”An impressive display of hand-to-hand techniques, though you use a stance unfamiliar to me. Dedicated as I think you are, I’m sure you’ll have quite a reputation in a few years – if you so wish.” She seem to have a difficult time to display such emotion as praise but there aren’t many things people in this life can praise about so Keiro took it for what it was worth.

”So perhaps you can tell me, why exactly these men were here? I certainly don’t plan on asking our ‘friend’” she asked, her thumb pointing to the puppeteer. Keiro got a good look at the man. He appeared to be in his mid-thirties, simply looking with short cut hair with hard brown eyes. He was an out of shape individual, not entirely prep for close range fighting and precisely there for mid to long range-hence the puppetry technique. He was short, maybe shorter than Uriko no more than an inch but short compared to Keiro. He had to somewhat good with puppetry to reanimate such a large man without Keiro or Uriko noticing but then Keiro thought, that they both chose to ignore that little fact because they didn’t see it as a big enough threat. He looked at the man’s face carefully, eyeing him as he would eye up an opponent if he was to fight him in close quarters combat. He saw the man was in distraught, he is looking around as if he knows he is about to die like a mouse caught in a trap. It’s just a matter of time his face said. All a matter of time, oh shit, oh god why is this happening to me. He was in pain, a good amount of it from the way his face is beading up like a man standing outside on a hot afternoon day. He was trying to come to terms as to where he was. It was like he was lost, not entirely sure that he was in Bear Country in ‘The Treehouse’.

“That’s a good question. I have a good idea as to what these guys are after but I’m not too sure. I don’t even think he even knows…not directly that is” He kind of wish he knew the techniques of the Yamanaka so he could just peek into the man’s head and just pry it out of him without asking a single question. Even if he did have the power, the man was in no condition of answering any question. Whatever it was that Uriko did, it had put the man constant pain. He was moving around, not focusing on them as he was feeling something that Keiro could not see with his eyes. He was hearing them but it was like a voice entering into a tunnel and echoing onward.

“I say ‘not directly’ because their actions made little to no sense.” He gestured on the table as if there was a piece of paper in front of them. It was if he was laying out something one by one “If you were planning on killing someone dangerous, you wouldn’t necessarily send some low-grade thug out to kill them. It’s a waste of man power and if it’s paid mercenary, a waste of money. Now, we can say this guy were probably sent here on their own free will because of the money-but then comes the human emotions and thought process. If you were a genin level shinobi trying to combat a kage level shinobi, the moment that thought comes to mind, you instantly begin to rationalize with probability. Survivability is a definite number one in this case but usually the answer to the situation is this: Survivability of such of an event is zero percent. No money in the world is worth it if you’re dead.”

Keiro raised two fingers up, one finger for each hand “So, if human factor comes along why did they attack us, even knowing they would probably die or get captured? The answer, they wouldn’t unless something was controlling them like puppets. Only they need not strings…but seals…”

Keiro looked at the man. The man looked back at him. There was definitely fear in those eyes, unknowingly seeing his fate would be in the dark. For a moment, Keiro felt bad for this man seeing him just as a pawn in this rather than a person who did this by free will. “I would commend you for displaying such skill but something tells me you were not the one that was pulling the strings on this.” Keiro reached over and had a hand hover over the cloth that bounded the man’s mouth “Who was it that sent you?” He pulled the cloth down off of the man’s mouth. The man let out a dry cough, his voice was nothing short of a whisper as the pain was still affecting him.

“They come…” he spoke, his voice was nothing but a strained voice “They came and took us…there was nothing but darkness…now I’m here and….” His voice was cut abruptly, his eyes began to roll in the back of head. There was a gargling sound that was coming out of the man’s mouth. First saliva bubbles formed out then the saliva accumulated into foam. He shook violently in his position in the booth, contorting his body left then right then left again over and over. The man was having a seizure Keiro thought and he sat back in his chair looking at the man. Then the man’s body stopped all of the sudden, just like that. It was as if someone had turned a switch off on the man. The man wasn’t breathing; the muscles in his face had contorted into a hideous, deranged pose that resembled that of a troll out of a kabuki play.

“I wonder-“ Keiro was beginning then he saw something that caught his eye. The skin on his forehead began to move, slowly moving back and forth. The movement of the skin then centered as small rippled began forming in the center of his forehead. A circle began to form that was six inches in diameter. Then a complicated design began to engrave itself within the six inch circle. “A seal…” he said but what kind of seal he had no clue.

“Is this thing on?” a voice, a mildly pleasant, soothing voice echoed out. It almost sounded like it was coming from the man’s mouth but his face was frozen in that pose which made creepy. “My, I never know if this thing works.” The voice was mocking as if he was talking into a microphone. “My apologizes to you both, I didn’t mean to ruin any good conversation that you were having before. My policy has always been to make sure the conversation is at an end before we engage in battle but-then again my client is an impatient one so you’ll have to forgive me. I hope the bar isn’t in too much if disarray.”

A dead man’s body was being used as a receiver so that both Keiro and Uriko would know who it is they were talking to. Keiro thought that this would make a great scene in a novel where the protagonist would first encounter the antagonist through a form of communication albeit a dead body. He supposes this guy, whoever it was on the other side of this body, had beaten Keiro to the punch “So you were controlling them?” Keiro said, already coming to terms with this form of communication “I would think you would attack us with better people.”

“Ah yes…” the man said regretfully “It was my clients who wanted to use the low life. They wanted to test out my abilities with seals and I couldn’t deny such good ryo because of that. I suppose it was my ‘interview’ if you catch my drift.” He said ‘catch my drift’ in a sing-song way. “Trust me, I wanted to use stronger opponents seeing that I was going up against the excellent Nagase, Uriko but they didn’t want to waste the manpower so I picked these guys off from some random criminal town and sent them their way towards The Treehouse. I had some certain informants tell me of a one armed woman and escaped prisoner going to such a dreadful place.”

“I’ll admit it’s not where I would take a woman on their first date-“Keiro shook his head trying his hardest not to make this seem like this was a normal occurrence. “So you sent these guys to test us…wouldn’t you think we would be holding back judging that we would JUDGE the guys that were attacking us?”

“This also came to mind…” The pleasant voice said “But again, I had to adhere to my clients so I couldn’t say no to the fact. They wanted to see some skill of Hiruko and Kuro no Shinigami’s son…it’s not every day you get a chance encounter like that.”

This man spoke of his father. Kuro no Shinigami was the title he had heard his uncle say whenever he was referring to his skill as a killer. To hear this man say it made him certain that this person had some iota of thought of the group who had set him up. His eyes slanted, the hand on his lap tapping his knee at a slow pace “So you knew my dad…knowing me…” his voice suddenly hardens, striking a nerve that was similar to the struck nerve Uriko experience when she heard the name Hajiro.

“Of course. I don’t know why you seem important to them. You’re just a measly exile anyway. But, they seem interested in you for some reason so they mainly wanted to test you out instead of Nagase. She was already on their radar for the longest time. You’re like fresh meat, straight off from the butcher.”

The voice then directed itself to Uriko “Nice display of medicine. Something that could heal can also kill as well. Mmm!” he almost seemed to moan this “It’s a delight to see that. And what you did to this poor man who didn’t even have a say in it…you’re cold blooded my love. Heartless if you may. If you were a regular shinobi of the village, you probably would’ve had some moral conflict but you’ve been in the business for too long to care about morals…” his voice smiled even without them seeing it “My client would love to have their grubby hands on you. You would make them very happy, making me a wealthy individual.”

Age : 35 Posts : 1113

Now that the bar was some distance away, it was pure chance that the bartender managed to catch Uriko’s eye. He was standing over the bodies, shattered glass and turned tables, looking a little bewildered. No doubt he’d had brawls here before, but it was rare that they involved such collateral damage. With a glance over towards the nukenin pair, he waited until the woman had caught his gaze before raising both eyebrows, inclining his head toward the mess they’d created and finally, shrugging. A brief look at the scattered corpses and broken barware was enough to convince Uriko that she’d rather someone else deal with the fallout. She offered a reluctant half-smile and a nod, which both understood to mean that she’d pay for damages. It would be easy to intimidate the man and leave without dipping into her coffers, but the kunoichi had had enough confrontation for today. In fact, the last few weeks had been fairly busy with unwelcome encounters. From the vacation in Getsugakure that had become a fight for survival to the bloody scuffle right here, she had earned a good few days off. But the current matter had not come to a head; though the one-armed lady had yet to realise it. What was that phrase? She thought. No rest for the wicked. The other voice inside her head whispered, gleefully. "Shut up." The woman muttered quietly, through gritted teeth. It was only when she noticed Keiro’s passing look of confusion at her muted words that she straightened up and put the interruption aside.

As it was, he was occupied with Uriko’s last question. "Why exactly were these men here?" With her jutsu putting her captive under constant torture, it probably wouldn’t have taken much for any criminal to extract this information from one of the would-be assailants. But the kunoichi was interested in seeing how her companion would go about answering, especially after she had hinted at not asking the prisoner. Eyeing the bound and gagged form from head to toe, Keiro sat with a look of calm contemplation on his face. "Mhmmm! Ngh!" The muffled cries of agony came from the corner at a steady rate and only now, when everyone else had fallen quiet, did the woman discover how annoying this was. Sighing wearily, she released the hand seal and allowed the invisible veil to dissipate, relieving the man of his foremost pain. That said, Uriko had still stuck him multiple times with a razor-sharp blade only moments ago, so his wounds would still hurt something fierce. Across from her, Keiro appeared thankful that the irritating and distracting noise had been silenced. Almost immediately, he gave his response. "That’s a good question. I have a good idea as to what these guys are after but I’m not too sure. I don’t think he even knows… not directly that is." The male nukenin replied, talking himself through the analytical process as much as Uriko. It seemed that he had come to the same conclusions that the woman had, too.

Keiro began again, once more talking as his mind worked and processed. "If you were planning on killing someone dangerous, you wouldn’t necessarily send some low-grade thugs out to kill them. It’s a waste of man-power and if it’s paid mercenaries, a waste of money. Now, we can say these guys were probably sent here of their own free will because of the money – but then comes the human emotions and thought process." Uriko was following so far, though she felt it could be put in simpler terms. We were far too strong a target; so they had to have been forced against their will. Still, she let the man continue to see if he had indeed noticed anything of particular interest. "If you were a Genin-level shinobi trying to combat a Kage-level shinobi, the moment that thought comes to mind, you instantly begin to rationalize with probability. Survivability is a definite number one in this case but usually the answer to the situation is this: survivability of such of an event is zero percent. No money in the world is worth it if you’re dead." Long-winded, but true enough. One of the first tenets of criminal life, in the battle-scarred woman’s book – only the living can claim their reward. The conclusion? She thought silently. "So, if human factor comes along, why did they attack us, even knowing they would probably die or get captured? The answer, they wouldn’t. Unless something was controlling them like puppets. Only they need not strings, but seals…" He finished, turning to the captive in the corner.

Uriko was glad that the two criminal-nin were on a similar wavelength – it made communication both quicker and more efficient. Now that they had reached the same conclusion, the only option left was to interrogate the prisoner. The woman had wanted to leave him out of it, ignoring both him and his pain as a cruel joke. But it couldn’t be helped. And besides, she planned to let Keiro deal with the injured man. "I would commend you for displaying such skill but something tells me you were not the one that was pulling the strings on this." The kunoichi looked on in silence, as her companion removed the filthy rag that had kept their prisoner quiet until now. "Who was it that sent you?" He asked, his voice calm but carrying a distinct, threatening note. His first words were rasped, almost unintelligible. After a few moments and a deep breath, he managed a little better. "They came and took us… there was nothing but darkness… now I’m here and-" His strained voice cut off mid-sentence, his eyes rolling back until they showed only white. Uriko’s curiosity turned quickly to irritation when a pale, foam-like substance started to gather in the man’s mouth, dribbling down his front. Cyanide? The woman’s thoughts immediately ran to what she knew best, but in this case it merely echoed the symptoms. The man’s body began to convulse violently, rattling the table as he slid from his seat to the floor. Like a discarded doll, he slumped against the chair legs and froze. Dead.

A few seconds passed, Keiro leaning over to the body to inspect it and Uriko inwardly snarling at having been deprived her entertainment. "I wonder-" Her companion murmured. As if on cue, the skin on the man’s forehead began to crawl and soon after, a small seal emerged. "The hell…?" The kunoichi muttered, having never seen a technique resembling this before. A calm, disembodied voice suddenly echoed around the booth. "Is this thing on?" It called out, faintly. Somehow, this Fuuin technique allowed for a distant entity to speak through another’s corpse. He – for the voice was male – did not seem to certain about the jutsu he was using. When he spoke again, it was with more assertion. "My apologizes to you both…" He began. Ah. Uriko thought, recognizing the apology for what it was. "So this is our welcome party’s mystery benefactor." She murmured across to Keiro. The male nukenin was quick to question the voice, before hinting at the insult to both him and the kunoichi at the disappointing reception. From the mystery man’s reply, it seemed he was none too happy about this arrangement either, but had been bought off by a large sum of money. No integrity. The woman sighed, bemoaning the state of the criminal world.

Her interest in the conversation perked up, however, when she heard the words ‘escaped prisoner’ in reference to her companion. There was something she hadn’t learned from her analysis. Again, only seconds later, Keiro’s past came up. "They wanted to see some skill of Hiruko and Kuro no Shinigami’s son. It’s not every day you get a chance encounter like that." Clearly, there was more to the man than Uriko had apportioned him credit for. Interestingly, she noted the instant physiological response from her companion, whose jaw clenched and muscles tightened at the words. A sore point, it seemed. "So you knew my Dad… knowing me…" He trailed off, slightly thrown by the topic. The voice went on to suggest that his employers were more interested in Keiro than the one-armed lady; making no attempt to hide what he personally thought of this decision. He also mentioned that Uriko was ‘on their radar’, which brought a furrowed brow of concern from the woman. Putting that aside for now, the kunoichi gazed at her companion, wondering what secrets he kept. Still, given the circumstances, it too would have to be a topic for later discussion.

The ethereal-like voice addressed Uriko now, offering compliments and sounding quite pleased to talk to her. "…you’re cold blooded my love. Heartless, if you may. Were you a regular shinobi of the village, you probably would’ve had some moral conflict. But you’ve been in the business for too long to care about morals." He paused, sighing contentedly. "My client would love to get their grubby hands on you. You would make them very happy, making me a wealthy individual." He finished, his tone coming across as torn between the money offered and the respect he held for the kunoichi. A moment of silence before – laughter. Uriko cackled derisively. "Do they think themselves alone?" She sneered. "They can open their vaults and spill their purses but a whore like you will never, never touch me." She had gone from disbelieving mirth to deeply sinister tones in an instant. She now sounded cold, sincere and murderous. "As my acquaintance here reminded me earlier: gold is no use to a corpse." Then, leaning in toward the cold flesh, she spoke directly into the seal. "I am coming for you. Tell your masters and mistresses to run." The woman drew a little breath in through her clenched teeth. "I do so enjoy a chase." Then, pushing her foot against the body, she let it slump face down on the wooden floor. Turning to Keiro, she spoke again. "If we gouge out the seal, will it shut up, do you reckon?" She muttered.

---------

Once the pair had settled their business with the orchestrator of the attack, Uriko was keen to straighten out a few things between Keiro and herself. "I don’t care much for false pretences and I’m now on a schedule. I want to know two things, if you are able to answer." She began, aware that at least one of these questions might be tricky for her companion to reply truthfully to. If that was the case, she hoped he would have realised it better to not reply at all than to feed lies to someone like her. "I sense you believe in a second wind for the scattered nukenin of this world. Like many others, the Shantakai represented the strongest of them and carried a hope for the downfall of those who wronged us. Correct me if I am wrong; you want to resurrect this ideal." She spoke of what the organization represented of course, not the Shantakai itself. "Secondly, if this is the case, I will consider your proposal if you explain to me why the thugs wanted you and what your family has to do with it." She was intruding on this man’s personal life, but it was more a test of character than anything. Had he asked Uriko about certain areas of her past, she would have told him nothing. But it would not have been a lie.

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"If we gouge out the seal, will it shut up, do you reckon?" There was muttering that came from Keiro’s voice and then there was a sound of ripping and tearing. Then, there was absolute silence. The line had been severed and there was no way of communicating any further with them. Such a waste it was with good seals such as that but what could he do? The man let out a sigh and turned to the three men standing behind him. They did not seem to mind the mild insults the voice of the seal made about them. Something as contrite as that could not phase the large egos these men seem to radiate. The voice of the seal smiled to them all, his hand set out in a welcoming gesture as if he was the ringleader in a circus.

“There you have it gentlemen. Your guest of honor has set her course to you. I made the invitation and now we set for the party at hand.” He rubbed his hands together greedily “So, whose going to be the first to dip their hands into that lovely Kekkei Genkai of hers eh?”

One of the men spoke “Uriko Nagase” in a low, dry voice “Such a threat upon us would’ve meant death to that person. Perhaps we should reinstate that rule among us.”

“It’ll do no good.” Another voice next to the dry one spoke aloud. It was a much younger voice, eighteen if not younger than that. “The council would not allow that anymore. They would probably say it’s too barbaric and close to the old ways.”

“PFf, the old ways they’ll say” The dry voice spoke “I could care less about their way of thinking even if they condemn it. Bah, they won’t be condemning it for long knowing that Uriko will be searching them out. That’ll do the convincing.”

“Even if that’s the case, they’ll probably hire better men. But what I am to say, I’m the youngest here and my voice gets unheard.”

“Do not fret young one. They’ll listen. Believe me, they’ll listen.”

The third man, the lowest voice that was deep in baritone “Keiro will come out nicely once this is all done. We’ll set him up for greatness if we have to.”

“He’ll be like his old man.” The dry voice complained “I hated him from the beginning and knowing how he is his son, it’ll be difficult to control him. He isn’t like the rest of the people we had controlled long ago.”

“He’ll do” the baritone voice said “He’ll do just fine. If push comes to shove, he’ll do what it is we have set up to do…”

Keiro pinched his eyelids and breathed in through his nose a long draw of air. He did this once more breathing in the thick, alcohol smell, dried blood and the stench of the dead man who was hanging off the wall. That brought him back to reality. “Haven’t thought about him in a long while.” He muttered to himself. Uriko didn’t seem to hear him so he didn’t have to answer that right out-at the moment. The man had brought out some skeletons that he wanted to stay in the closet. It wasn’t the fact that the man brought it up now, it was the fact that Keiro wasn’t at all prepared to hear his father’s title and him being the son of such a person. He felt that he now had to live up to the title. He never thought he could surmount to a level his father achieved but he would be lying if he said that. Keiro knew he would eventually have to live up to the title.

"I don’t care much for false pretences and I’m now on a schedule. I want to know two things, if you are able to answer." She started out. She figured there was questions, some hidden truths that needed to be unveiled. It should be fair seeing that Keiro knew much about Uriko and she knew only the name of his father’s title and a relationship with a group that had intent on hunting them "I sense you believe in a second wind for the scattered nukenin of this world. Like many others, the Shantakai represented the strongest of them and carried a hope for the downfall of those who wronged us. Correct me if I am wrong; you want to resurrect this ideal. Secondly, if this is the case, I will consider your proposal if you explain to me why the thugs wanted you and what your family has to do with it."

Keiro paused, not exactly hesitating in answering but more so filling in the blanks as to how he should answer. He looked at her sullenly then let out a sigh “Your question…do I wish to resurrect this ideal would be yes. But I wish to do it much better than the ideals of the Shantakai. From what I gathered, the first shantakai had good intentions that could be valued now but soon later corrupted years later…the second Shantakai was trying to form something that was lost but soon fell soon after. I wish to make something that doesn't necessarily come from this group but make it better in ideology and in force”

Keiro leaned forward, leaning his head on his hands as they were prompt up by his elbows. He seem to focus not at Uriko but through her now “I don’t know about these guys and what they had to do with my family…I can say honestly that they must be the people that were after my father and mother the moment they ran away from Kumogakure to reside in Konohagakure. I don’t know if it’s the same group of people, they would have to be at least in their sixties and seventies but the organization is the same…I just know that my father did something to the government of Lightning Country that they couldn’t hide from the public for very long. Once this thing was exposed…” He looked at the dead body, reminding himself of the story his father told of his assassinations. There were times where I looked at man and I didn’t see him as such…they were merely just tools, something that I broke that could not be fix. It could be the fact that in a world like this, you begin to see that life is no more valued than a wrapper to a piece of candy or a container that holds water. It exists but that is it.

“Kuro no Shinigami was my father’s title long ago when he was a shinobi in Kumo. His exploits made him fierce during the war when the Shantakai and the organization of other groups were still prominent. It’s been years since I’ve heard the name.” He smiled nostalgically “I’ve thought people had forgotten…” apparently not, Keiro wanted to add. “Why they want me as oppose to you…I don’t know. I’m just his son, not Shinigami himself. Maybe-” he sighed again “maybe they want me because I have the potential of being my father’s shadow. Maybe that’s exactly what they want is for me to step in his shoes.” What was it that Zurui said he was? A magnet? Did this group wanted him because of this trait in his being? It could be but he could only guess this. He shrugged “As you already seen, I don’t know.”

Keiro looked at the bar. The people hadn’t come back in. There were a few people still lurking but that’s all they were doing. The bartender that served their drinks seemed rather annoyed by the fact of mess that was made in the treehouse. He wanted to say something, he could see the urge in the back of the man’s head but the tender kept his lips seal. After seeing someone die by a person’s touch then that that same dead person comes to life and then is impaled into a wall not five minutes later, it would make someone keep their lip tight on such a matter of a few broken tables and a broken stool.

“We can both agree,” Keiro continued “that we were done wrong by people. This can either destroy a man or make them stronger. I believe we should create a group that gathers these strong individuals for a better cause regardless of what their goals are. Let this group be a melting pot of men and women who will shape and form a new era.”

Age : 35 Posts : 1113

As if responding to Uriko’s request, the seal emitted a strange, rough sound before dissolving away. While the woman was indeed glad of the silence, she conceded to herself that it was a poor tactical decision. With her and Keiro’s distant antagonists cut off from mutual communication, neither could learn anything more of the mysterious group. Perhaps that’s best. The female nukenin wondered. Had the ‘voice’ let any information slip – though he had sounded far too clever to do so – then Uriko’s fury might have developed into rash actions. Now, with her anger tempered by a necessary patience, she would have the time to approach the matter strategically rather than emotionally. There was much to do if the kunoichi was to carry out her threat. But where to start? She had a handful of dead nobodies, organized by a nameless, faceless man who was in the employ of some unknown, cabalistic syndicate. It was the owner of the voice the criminal pair had just heard who held the keys. He had his hands in both pots, dealing with both the foot soldiers and the lords. No matter how hard this organization had tried to cover it up, his fingerprints would be all over them both. Uriko would follow this nefarious ladder until she reached the target. And when she had found her way to him, she would make him talk. For her, they always did.

Personal vendettas aside, the woman still had business to complete with Keiro. He had become an unexpected ally for the time being. Of course, she had no intention of trusting him and his word. It was nothing personal. There was not a single person in the shinobi world who would offer something to the kunoichi for free – though there many who would do so to see her dead or in chains. For now, Uriko would take her new acquaintance at face value and nothing more. Across from her, he seemed lost in thought and mumbled something unintelligible to himself. The ethereal voice’s words had clearly had some effect on him and after pressing for details of his aforementioned plans, the woman decided to quiz him on the more personal matter too. It took a few moments for the young man to compose his answer. "Your question… do I wish to resurrect this ideal would be yes. But I wish to do it much better than the ideals of the Shantakai. From what I gathered, the first Shantakai had good intentions that could be valued now but soon later corrupted years later. The second Shantakai was trying to form something that was lost but fell soon after. I wish to make something that doesn't necessarily come from this group but make it better in ideology and in force." He explained.

Uriko could see the ambition in his eyes, but she wondered whether he underestimated the work involved in such an endeavour. A singularly powerful ideal might sway people’s hearts to a principle, but for the organization Keiro had in mind to work, they would need to allow the notion to spread naturally, taking root amongst the minds of the criminal populace. It was an effect that would take time and subtlety. Geographical locations of particular use would need to be sought out and claimed, then prepared and protected. Supply chains targeted and coerced to do business solely with this new power. The group would need to demonstrate its power and influence before, solid, in-depth plans for the future were drawn up. With all of this in place, they would be free to recruit the strongest and most useful shinobi to their cause. The kunoichi’s intelligence network was one of the best in the criminal underworld, outclassed by few indeed. Yet she had heard little of any great powers amongst their nukenin peers. If this was the case, then up-and-coming talents would need to be recruited and undergo the arduous task of extensive training. Uriko felt a little tired just thinking about it. But if Keiro was willing to pick up what little remained of the Shantakai’s old contacts… The woman shook her head slightly. She was getting carried away with the notion, unable to see the trees for the forest ahead. And besides, her erstwhile companion had yet to answer her other, more pertinent question. White he appeared a little reluctant to discuss the subject; he did eventually resign himself to it.

"I don’t know about these guys and what they had to do with my family. I can say honestly that they must be the people that were after my father and mother the moment they ran away from Kumogakure to reside in Konohagakure. I don’t know if it’s the same group of people, they would have to be at least in their sixties and seventies but the organization is the same. I just know that my father did something to the government of Lightning Country that they couldn’t hide from the public for very long. Once this thing was exposed…" He explained, sighing slightly as he trailed off. Ah, family legacy. She though, smiling inwardly. There was something quite interesting about those living in their parents’ shadow, especially since Uriko had escaped such a fate before it ever came to bear on her. Neither of her parents had ever aspired to greatness, but her father’s bloodline meant he had always received a certain attention. The kunoichi felt a twang of pity for the young man, having inherited such an unfortunate history. It would no doubt have dogged his life from an early age, though whether Keiro himself was aware of it, the woman did not know.

"Kuro no Shinigami was my father’s title long ago when he was a shinobi in Kumo." The male nukenin continued. "His exploits made him fierce during the war when the Shantakai and the organization of other groups was still prominent. It’s been years since I’ve heard the name." At this, he smiled as if thinking of a kinder time. "I’ve thought people had forgotten…" He murmured. Uriko could understand the desire to leave such things behind, but he had been foolish to think his past would fade away in others’ memories. "Why they want me as oppose to you, I don’t know. I’m just his son, not Shinigami himself. Maybe they want me because I have the potential of being my father’s shadow. Maybe that’s exactly what they want is for me to step in his shoes." He mused. Whoever this Shinigami had been, whatever he had accomplished, it must have been quite extraordinary for anyone to go to such lengths to acquire his child. And there was no absolute certainty that he’d actually grow into the heir they wanted him to become. "As you’ve already seen, I don’t know." Keiro shrugged, as at a loss for answers as Uriko herself. He didn’t seem particular concerned by their interest though. Overconfidence? Or was it just another problem at the end of a long day? The one-armed lady could only guess.

"We can both agree that we were done wrong by people." The male shinobi continued. "This can either destroy a man or make them stronger. I believe we should create a group that gathers these strong individuals for a better cause regardless of what their goals are. Let this group be a melting pot of men and women who will shape and form a new era." He finished. It was evident he was now waiting for Uriko to offer her thoughts. "And what is it, exactly, that we will be fighting for?" She asked rhetorically. "A better world for the criminals? Half of them rejected an easier life in favour of this one." She continued. "We need something primal, that doesn’t patronise them with false promises. Look around you and have a guess at how many of these men and women seek revenge." At this, the woman paused and wrinkled her nose a little. "Revenge is sought easily and in haste. We will offer them something more righteous – retribution. Of course, for those with other reasons to choose criminality, we need a more glorious lure. The power to exert our own will on the world." The woman breathed deeply. "It will not be easy to control when we do wrest the shinobi nations from our enemies grasp, what with so many desires and the inevitable conflicts. But our followers will not question it until that time and then… we cull appropriately." She muttered, her eyes lit with a merciless fire. Leaning over to speak near his face, she hid a slight grin. "That is the very beginning of a revolution." She whispered emphatically.

Relaxing in her seat, Uriko watched as the young man digested her words. She understood now why else he had come to her. Sure enough, her Kekkei Genkai had incredible potential for balancing an impure world but it was her past with the Shantakai and her expertise in this field that made her an asset to him. The woman reached over for a glass of water that had been abandoned by its owner when the fight had erupted. Sniffing the liquid carefully first, the kunoichi took a long sip. "I do not want to be known, Keiro Hateshini. I have my own agenda and am not the enigmatic leader you require. Were it possible, I’d like to slip under the radar completely but clearly-" She gestured to the mess that the bartender was busy cleaning. "- I still have plenty to do. So yours must be the name that bears the consequences of our actions." Uriko explained firmly. "Do not misunderstand; I will do what I need to, when I can. After the group is established, I want nothing attempted before being run by myself and you will be the only one to report to me directly." She added, wondering how well Keiro would take such demands. "These are my terms." She finished, cocking her head and awaiting a reply. There would be more to ask of the man, but it could wait for now. She had given him plenty to think about, after all.

Posts : 760

Retribution. That was what this small organization-rather the beginning of the organization-would offer all those who were under their service. It sounded philosophical, not a concrete thing like wealth or war nor such an abstract idea such as power. It was rather something of what a merchant would sell to the buyer, a mercenary to a client. They would run the operations like a business not to service their own beings but to service others. Isn’t that what a business is all about? To not just gain profit from their business but alas service the needs of others. Keiro didn’t want to put it in those kinds of terms because it wasn’t the exact likeness of a business but close to it. He listen to her speak. There was a sort of benign pleasure in her voice. He’s been catching on to the slightest things she pulls. From a glance and looking at her just superficially, one could conclude that she is more so a dark person. Dark was correct but it wasn’t the entire answer to her story. She had a way of speaking that she developed over the years of walking the earth. It held back something, like placing a bet on a high stake poker game. She didn’t gamble wildly and she didn’t show all of her cards. Her poker face was always solemn and he could imagine her being one hell of poker player. But it was the little things that he noticed that shows him what she truly feels. What was she feeling right now? He guessed it was a slight enjoyment next to the countless thoughts of how the organization should run. Keiro smiled at her words, finding joy in her sentiments.

He placed his hands behind his head stretching his shoulders and letting in the fowl air fill in his lungs. It wasn’t too bad he decided. Not as bad as the stale air of the prison. He could bear with the stale air of alcohol, sweat and blood than deal with the stench of the prison. This place was filled with life, filled with a soul and a ghost that moved its way in the room from patron to patron. When they would leave, the patrons would return back into the treehouse making sure that everything was settled and the bodies vanished. The bartender would have to deal with the bodies, not that he’ll enjoy doing so. He wasn’t the owner of the establishment but he was there to moderate the men and women who resided in the tree, both alive and dead. It was an ok job but there were rarely days where he had to throw a dead body into the incinerator down off in the country side. There was an old factory that uses to produce steel grinders for an out-of-country construction business but it hadn’t been in use for nearly seven years or so. He would have to go to the factory later tonight he thought.

Uriko looked on the counter and saw a glass of water. It looked untouched; it was certainly not Keiro’s drinking water since he smashed his cup on a man’s face. She grabbed it, lean her nose in to sniff then downed all the contents in a few gulps. "I do not want to be known, Keiro Hateshini. I have my own agenda and am not the enigmatic leader you require. Were it possible, I’d like to slip under the radar completely but clearly-" she gestured to the mess "- I still have plenty to do. So yours must be the name that bears the consequences of our actions. Do not misunderstand; I will do what I need to, when I can. After the group is established, I want nothing attempted before being run by myself and you will be the only one to report to me directly." She didn’t want to be the ideal figure head, not like the past Shantakai leaders. They were the persuasive types, the ones who could show themselves to the crowd and didn’t care about the spotlight on them. Her personality, her role in this all was more of the person who converses only with the shadows. The limelight was not where she shined but it was the backstage was her forte. She simply didn’t put herself in a position where she would attract too much attention for her own self.

He didn’t mind it. He saw that she was definitely in as long as he played the role as ‘leader’. He didn’t see himself as the inspiring leaders like the Hokage or the Raikage who were deemed the strongest. He felt the title and the weight of it inappropriate for him. He felt like the Sasayaki clan in which their power didn’t come from their physical beings but their definite minds. It was the minds of powerful leaders that formed armies, gained notoriety and chose whether it was wise to put the enemy in check or not. He rubbed his chin feeling nothing but smooth skin. Her words were being digested by his mind, churning the gears of rational and pure logic. It was a partnership to create an organization and she wanted to be the first person to be told and the one person who would make the decision along him. It was a minute before Keiro said anything. He took his hands off the back of his head and nodded ever slightly “Agreed” he spoke “If you find a member, report it back to me and I’ll do the same. I believe the only thing we’ll have to think upon is where to gather all.” He gestures to the tree house itself “This is a place to gather, socialize and gain infamy but it isn’t the best environment to discuss future plans of a-“ he cleared his throat “-business. I believe it would be best to find a good office for this. I’ll have to find a way to create some code that only this organization would know.”

He had no intention of asking what her agendas were. It was strictly out of question to ask as to what she was intending on doing. It’s her life and not his own. Plus, it was just polite not to intrude and Keiro wasn’t the intruding type not unless he was investigating. His only concern is if something were to come adjacent to his plans and the plans of the organization, would it affect her alas affecting him as well? Keiro decided it was best to leave that question unanswered. If he dawned on it too long, it would leave to paranoia which is something he taught himself not to do.

Keiro then thought up of one thing. “Just one stipulation.” he added “I don’t want to be the one to say this but I believe it is appropriate now.” He paused and took a deep breath “If we find this group or a person from this group and confront them, I do not wish to kill them immediately. I’m not asking that we save them because they want to redeem themselves. There is no redemption in what they are partaking. No, I just want them to live so I can find out what happen to a particular person. If they do not know, then dispose of them however you feel appropriate.”

Age : 35 Posts : 1113

Now that the excitement had come and gone, the two nukenin were finally able to relax. Or rather, as much as they would allow themselves to. Keiro sat with a faint smile upon his face, listening carefully to what the kunoichi had to say. There was a quiet cunning in the young man's eyes, something Uriko rarely spied in those quite clearly her junior. The man thought like a true criminal should, with his mind first and muscles second. Much like his female companion sat opposite. There was an element of deceit to this game, each individual being as economic with the facts as they possibly could be. Not out of spite, but seeking any advantage over the other - just in case. Nukenin had to be prepared for any eventuality and each was aware of the other's mistrust. Of course, being as familiar with such things as they both were, neither begrudged the other their secrets. Though Uriko did wonder whether her new acquaintance had been entirely truthful about his apparent lack of knowledge concerning their recent antagonists. Given that the young man was here trying to procure the female's assistance, the kunoichi dismissed the concern, filing it away under 'unlikely'. Keiro seemed to be enjoying the newly placated atmosphere a little more than his companion, easing out some tension in his shoulder muscles and breathing deep. A satisified expression crossed his features as he cupped the back of his head in both palms.

Uriko continued to speak, assuming that she had his attention despite the non-chalance. When she had come to the end of her demands, the young man paused, blinking slowly and mulling the proposal over. He must know that he won't be getting a better offer. The woman thought silently to herself. Sure enough, after a lengthy pause, Keiro nodded and murmured a reply. "Agreed." He asserted. Inwardly, Uriko was relieved that he had asked no questions of her terms or anything regarding her own business. She was certain he had not ignored these parts of her speech, but rather had chosen to let them lie. Perhaps it had been her earlier reaction to intrusion on certain personal matters that had held his tongue. Either way, it meant a smoother ride for the both of them. As it was, Keiro had already moved on to other things. "If you find a member, report it back to me and I’ll do the same. I believe the only thing we’ll have to think upon is where to gather all." He stated. Uriko calmly held up her palm, gesturing for patience. "I agree that we should keep our eyes peeled for potential, Keiro. But faith and allegiance is so much stronger when it is truly inspired." She explained. "Before we actually recruit anyone, we need to spread vague whispers of our plans amongst the rabble-" She nodded her head in the direction of the nukenin still inhabiting this floor of the treehouse. "-and then we need to back it up with action." She continued. "Imagine yourself an impressionable youngster - and mark my words, knowing of the current nukenin cohort, we will have to train these accomplices - what would you do if approached by a powerful figure you'd only heard rumour and intrigue about until now?" She finished, letting the notion develop in Keiro's mind.

"You make a good point about our choice of location, though." Uriko added, almost as an afterthought. Keiro, unfazed by his newfound partner's words, gestured to the treehouse around them. "This is a place to gather, socialize and gain infamy but it isn’t the best environment to discuss future plans of a business. I believe it would be best to find a good office for this. I’ll have to find a way to create some code that only this organization would know." He mused, casting a discerning eye over their surroundings. The kunoichi sniffed and glanced from side to side. "True enough. We used to have ties in Ta no Kuni, long ago." She muttered, referring to the Shantakai. "Though perhaps old haunts are not so wise." The one arm-woman concluded. "That leaves us few options, of which the best are those both easily defended and rarely visited. Yu no Kuni, perhaps? The mist there makes navigation tricky, but with practice, we could learn the safer routes." She pondered, asking the questions as much of herself as her companion. "It does depend, somewhat, on how close to the great nations we are comfortable being." She intoned, tailing off as she thought about the matter. Some time passed as the pair discussed hideouts and bolt-holes. Eventually, Uriko returned to the other problem Keiro had brought up. "As for our code, it must be something that an enemy could not falsify." She explained. Then, "Though my roots are betrayal and boughs bear my spite, the forest endures." She murmured, quietly. Uriko was no scribe, but she felt the phrase had a poetry to it that spoke to the lives of many outcasts the world over. Would Keiro agree?

With much of the basic plans laid out, the male nukenin returned to a former topic of discussion. "Just one stipulation." He began. "I don’t want to be the one to say this but I believe it is appropriate now." Uriko frowned as the young man stopped rather abruptly. He took a long draught of air into his lungs before continuing. "If we find this group or a person from this group and confront them, I do not wish to kill them immediately. I’m not asking that we save them because they want to redeem themselves. There is no redemption in what they are partaking. No, I just want them to live so I can find out what happen to a particular person. If they do not know, then dispose of them however you feel appropriate." He explained, clearly hoping to learn more of his own involvement in their plans. "I cannot promise that they will live to see your face, but if I find them, I will try to show restraint." She too, paused before speaking again. "I understand why you want to question them." The kunoichi added, inclining her head slightly. It could hardly be said that Uriko was a family girl, but she felt a distinct empathy for those with a personal axe to grind. Her own had turned into quite a story. Pushing her glass away, the woman got to her feet and straightened her back. "Contact me when you've finished spreading our word, or if you discover a talent. If you send a raven to any of the known hideouts, I'll pick it up." She intoned, careful to keep her voice low. This messaging system was well known amongst nukenin, but safe if one knew how to disguise a letter. Uriko hoped that her newfound companion would. Nodding abruptly, the woman turned heel and departed in silence.

~~Exit~~

Posts : 760

And alas, the first ‘unofficial’ meeting of the organization that consisted of Keiro and Uriko had begun. It’s odd how the first meeting is always the shortest. It’s never the first meeting where you lay out all of the cards on the table. There had to be careful planning with it and both Keiro and Uriko understood that planning was first, strategy then initiation. It could also be noted that the reason why their first meeting was because of the initial distrust between the exile and the criminal but that was only natural. Living in a world where someone back could be left open if unguarded was the name of the game. Uriko didn’t open up to him and she had no reason to. He was there to offer his services to her and they came to an agreement. It was simply business. He knew the moment he spoke a word to her that she would be the dealer and him the player hoping for a good hand.

Keiro didn’t-for the most part-reveal too much to Uriko. He was careful in the words he spoke, only speaking what was appropriate for both him and her. He had to cleverly chose what he had to say and what he had to keep sealed to himself. She knew it, she’s been working as a freelance shinobi for much too long to not know the obvious of when two individuals meet and begin discussing future plans. They weren’t from the same village, didn’t have the same philosophies-again, for the most part-and had some differing personalities that put them both off guard at times. It was like asking her hand for marriage, without getting to know her, knowing what she liked or disliked and the entire formalities one forgo during that phase in life. Keiro just listen, a trait he was well versed in.

It seemed like a lot to take in, especially after coming in from a not even three minute long kill fest. Keiro learned early in his life that in order to get everything in entirely, one must break down everything that is being said. The first thing was clarifying that finding potential was one thing but it is the message being said that’ll bring in the followers. She was saying that they would flock to them if they just spread the word rather than them doing all the hard work and finding potential. Not to say they couldn’t go and search for men and women capable of achieving the ‘retribution’ both Keiro and Uriko desired but that was only if they find one of their liking.

Next was a proper location. She explained they-the Shantakai-had relations with Ta no Kuni long ago. Keiro reached back in his memory to find which period that would’ve been and he deduced it was between the first Tsuchikage’s and Kazekage’s reign and the ‘fall’ was when the third Hokage was in command of Konoha. He imagined there was probably some hostility now even if one mentions the name of the organization. He couldn’t imagine them being spiteful against the group; organizations come and go like seasons but it wouldn’t be advisable to make their headquarters in such a place where the enemy could find them. She instead suggested a peaceful place, Yu no Kuni. They were one of the few small nations that weren’t under shinobi dictations. They did have a small military, probably local militia from the villagers and some ex-shinobi themselves who integrated but nothing that was worth worrying over. It was a start. Keiro believed that would be one place for people to gather. He didn’t want to suggest Ame. As much as he enjoyed it being a haven for the mafia, he rather let that be his own little sanctuary that he can gain peace from. He dislikes the rain to an extent but it grew on him which is something he would never admit.

"As for our code, it must be something that an enemy could not falsify." She answered then softly spoke the words "Though my roots are betrayal and boughs bear my spite, the forest endures." He could’ve suggested that she never enter into a poetry contest and submit that for any form of Haiku. The editors would have a field day with such a phrase. But it was the best thing they could develop and Keiro liked the way it ringed.

What hold a lot of weight to the discussion was what Uriko spoke in a clear intonation that had the feel and power of a judge. She had said it earlier, no doubt Keiro prioritizing it due to importance but this rung in his mind for the longest. "Imagine yourself an impressionable youngster - and mark my words, knowing of the current nukenin cohort, we will have to train these accomplices - what would you do if approached by a powerful figure you'd only heard rumour and intrigue about until now?

It was a fairly good question; something Keiro was supposes to chew on. It wouldn’t be so easy to just talk his way into it. Keiro was a speaker, always has known that brute force and strength did not always equal to the intelligence of a man nor his passions and philosophy. Uriko was a tough cookie to be perfectly honest. Keiro wasn’t expecting her to agree right away only because he held on to the seeds of doubt. When they came to contract, those seeds of doubt disappeared just as quickly as they came. But that would not always be the case. He knew that he would have to teach not only the ones who were young, no younger than sixteen or seventeen to the slightly powerful if not more powerful than Keiro was criminals who would only see him as small fry. Uriko saw that bright figure within Keiro but would anyone else see it.

A magnet Keiro thought. I am considered a magnet. Keiro didn’t have the answer only because the answer he created sounded disbelieving and almost maniacal. Maybe he’ll say it one day, maybe. He didn’t hold a promise to such. Just as Uriko couldn’t outright promise that she would have the utmost of mercy upon her acclaimed enemy. If they were to cross paths with her, no doubt they would see why she was given such a title and why many organizations feared and dreaded her presences. He didn’t expect her to say ‘yes, I’ll agree to that’. Even he would’ve had a difficult time in letting something as a man trying to slit his throat offered mercy. That was the best answer, perhaps the only answer.

Her time to leave was now. She pushed the glass away from her and rose up from her seat "Contact me when you've finished spreading our word, or if you discover a talent. If you send a raven to any of the known hideouts, I'll pick it up." The ravens were a system similar to the falcons the villages had when transferring messages from village to village. They weren’t the fastest creatures to take the sky; some would agree that it was best to just carry the message along with them. Keiro saw the logic with the ravens as a falcon was a create that could fly solo; it wasn’t hindered by a entire flock that ravens had a tendency of doing. But the point of the raven system wasn’t speed and efficiency but rather blending. Like criminals, when one sees a flock of ravens, they have a tendency of moving along a pattern of life that most people don’t view them in. It was like crossing pass a neighbor everyday and not noticing they are there because one sees them all the time. They become a part of the scene. Ravens are chilling but people associate them in flocks and only count them as scavengers of a fresh kill not messengers.

She turned and went her away out of the tree house leaving quieter than the silence that had already filled the room. Keiro took the glass that Uriko drank from and began to spin it in his hand. His mind trailed off to the questions he had in mind for the longest: Where was his mother? Was she doing ok? Is she dead? If she is, is she buried in Konoha? If she isn’t, what was she doing? Was she looking for me? He hoped his mother would be looking for him, if not looking at least trying to achieve retribution for what had happen to her lover and her only born. She seemed like the type Keiro thought. It wasn’t something a son should really imagine but he knew better. He knew his mother was a loving woman, a loving mother, one who was hard headed and sometimes just one who thought with her fist rather than her head. His father spoke of her as such when she was a teenager but calmed down when they were deep in their relationship though she still had moments every now and then.

But the things that kept her balance, the husband now dead and the son now exile would’ve turned her made her something she didn’t want to become. She hated it but he had a feeling she had embraced it.

The lingering thoughts continued until there was no one left in the bar. It was only the bartender, Keiro and his own thoughts.

[End]