Arriving at the Frozen Gates [Village Entry]

Satoru’s eyes, filled with intrigue, scanned the monk who introduced himself as Akash. His demeanor and the flurry of questions that followed reminded him of the younger, more zealous days of his own journey. The monk’s eagerness to learn, though slightly overwhelming, was commendable – looking back at the Jugo, Baki sought a nod of approval which the duo quickly exchanged. "Seeking knowledge... how noble..." thought the Jugo, hesitant to hinder the monks growth. “We are members of the Hyogagakure Military… and you are in the presence of Lord Saijin, our General and Kage. While your questions are presumptuous, Monk” his eyes narrowed, a faint aura of aggression resonating from him as he continued – “My lord has permitted me to indulge your curiosity... Hyogakure…” he gestured in the direction of the gates -  “Is a place of resilience and determination, our pride lies in our unity and the ability to thrive in this harsh environment. Our artisans craft intricate weapons and armours, made from the rare minerals found deep within our mountains. As for cuisine, our signature dishes mostly consist of fish complemented by a special variety of herbs that only grow within our climate. Our music, rooted in ancient folklore, tells tales of bravery and survival, often accompanied by dances that mimic the movement of snowstorms…"

Baki, standing firm beside Satoru, remained locked on the Monk, his gaze periodically drifting to the battle-ready Yuki. Her readiness to defend and her controlled demeanour spoke volumes of her training. He appreciated her diplomatic approach, as it showed wisdom and maturity. "Your intentions seem peaceful, and our gates are open to those who come without malice." Baki said, addressing Yushia. "However, be warned, our village is protective of its own, and any act of hostility will be met with swift action."

Satoru nodded in agreement with Baki's words. “Your journey here must have been a challenging one and so my lord invites the two of you to stay and rest while the southern storm clears the path to the coastline. While you are within our walls, you will be treated with respect as esteemed guests of my lordship – naturally, we expect the same from our guests”.

Baki added, "And Monk - if you truly wish to understand our culture and history, perhaps a visit to our village's archives might be enlightening. We have a rich tapestry of stories that might interest a wanderer such as yourself."

Both Satoru and Baki awaited the pair's response, their stance welcoming yet firm, in the distance, a foray of troops manned the battlements, the alphorn ringing out to signal the return of the village leader. If the guests accepted the proposition, they would be welcomed into the city after completing a handful of papers to register their visit. If they didn’t then neither of the duo would stand in their way – they were free to continue their journey.

With either scenario – both Satoru and Baki would begin making their way into the village, the distance between them never more than 1 meter as they ascended the hill. If either of the visitors decided to mount an offensive then Baki was more than ready to react.

[Exit]

Akash's hand moved fluidly across his page, making notes of the man's words, his lips mouthing silently as he wrote. "Fascinating," he speaks under his breath, finally lifting his pen and regarding the two men again, smiling. "I am most grateful for your indulgence sir. Your culture sounds a noteworthy one, and I would be honored to visit your archives. Thank you very much for your generous welcome." Pressing his hands together, Akash smiles and bows again, before looking to his companion. "What say you, Yushia? Are you happy to visit the village, while we wait for the storm to pass?" While he was hoping that his new acquaintance would agree, regardless of her answer he was already making his way to the check in station to begin filling out his paperwork, eager to explore what the village had to offer. He would undertake this excursion alone if he had to, but he thought it might be pleasant to have some friendly company.

When his paperwork was finished, Akash would wait for Yushia to accompany him if she chose to do so, before walking through the village gates.

[Exit (for real)]
___________________________________
WC: 188 / TWC: 422
WC Claims: +4 Chakra; 420 WC towards Atman Fighting Style: Free Spirited (570/2000)

Seeing as the masked man converses without any aggravated movements, she deduces that they're partial to listening to them. She folds and tucks her arms beneath the spacious sleeves of her redwood and old rose-designed haori as she listens attentively to the overview of Hyogakure's culture, customs, traditions, and history, all of which silently fascinates the swordswoman while her newest acquaintance fervently jots down the information into his journal. So much so, that she nearly considers the notion of offering her services, and perhaps fealty if what he speaks true, but considering her meager reputation and range of expertise, it would come off as an ill-received jest than a genuine proposal.

Nevertheless, when he proffers the duo and bids them welcome to their abode as esteemed guests—wherewithal to register their temporary visit at Lord Saijin's request—she nods affirmatively, it would certainly help to immerse herself first-hand reconsider whether her prior thought was simply a fleeting, wishful thinking or not. As the exchange concludes, she transfixes her gaze toward the monk and her ears tweak to the inquiry he posits. She briefly ponders and sighs as another ghastly cloud expels from her nostrils.

"So be it, it's not every day we're graced with an opportunity to experience another's culture. Besides, the winds have become fiercer and the sun is beginning to set. Let us not keep the Lord waiting."

She looks back at the uniformed men and offers a courteous bow. Allowing both men to enter the village first, she follows Akash toward the village gates side-by-side and finalizes any necessary paperwork by the gate guards to affirm their statuses in the village as "Esteemed Guests"—or whichever variant of the term the Glacial Village uses—before she finally enters the village proper.


WC: 291
TWC: 1,618


[EXIT THREAD]


Requesting approval for the following claims:

► Claiming Entry into Hyōgagakure no Sato as an "Esteemed Guest"

Investing the remaining 1,618 TWC into the following *Jutsu:

► Training Hiding in the Water @ C-Rank [39/750] → (750/750) [907 TWC Left]
► Training Water Release: Water Dragon Bullet (907/2,062) [0 TWC Left]

*25% Discount option via max stats