Escorts and Invitations(IO)

Mission Details :

The sound of a simple breath…..
The sound of hands coming together……
Silence in the face of ritual……
All that was missing was the feel of clay beneath his feet, mind tuning out the superfluous noise that attempted to berate his mind.  Like the opponent who seeks to hold dominion of the dohyo it pushed him away from the ritual….the concentration….the closest thing to religion the man had ever felt.  Still, these few moments of peace as all things where destined to come to an end.  Within his mind he saw the brilliantly garbed man standing before him, a stack of envelopes held out.  Kaito moved his hand back and forth before touching his right shoulder and sweeping down, taking the imaginary bundle of funds that would signify his continued earnings. 
 
With a grumble, the massive man stood, head bowed not in any further contemplation, but out of necessity due to the small size of the cabin.  Pushing his way out of the room he found himself on the deck off the small boat, a splash of sea spray wetting his face. 
 
“All most there!” a shout tore down from the feeble crow’s nest.  His passion paid some of the bills of travel, but not all.  Moving from country to country was many things, but cheap was not amongst them.  It had been a stroke of luck to find an odd job to do on his way to the Island of Moon, even if the benefactor was testing his patience.  A simple duty, keep a loud-mouthed man safe.  The first part of the journey was by sea, where they would make port and then a short jaunt through the land of Moon.  The architect he had been told wished to see the ruins of the once great nation for inspiration.  The issue with a land without a village of strength was that you are never quite new who was making it their home, thus he had splurged on his normal protection detail as well as several contractors. 
 
The once Ozeki looked out as the deckhands brought them to harbor and tied off.  Leading the way off the boat he stood in wait of the benefactor to follow suit, eyes moving across the area not so much on the lookout for danger but for who else might be coming.  The wrestler standing at 6 feet and 8 inches tall towered over the majority of locals that moved around at the hustle and bustle.  If it had only been his height perhaps he could have gotten fewer looks, but it was his size that would draw attention as much as his fraying kimono.  The light blue with blue clouds had seen better day, the thick white belt fraying on the ends.  It seemed to barely engulf the man who now he guessed weighed nearly 390lbs.  The small horns that seemed to leave his head, the symbol of his Ushitori bloodline certainly weren’t coming to his aid either. 
 
With a grunt of thanks to the small man who dropped off his canvas bag that served as his luggage he shouldered it, once again looking around for who else the man had hired, and of course the man himself finally making his way off the boat.

TWC - 542

A few days prior Junko had received a letter from a famous architect named Jamil Proctor, asking if she’d be willing to escort him to the ruins in Tenga. The note informed her that he would be bringing along some additional muscle, however, he wanted a more local guide to assist them in finding the ruins. Normally she would try to steer clear of the ruins, especially since there she had a recent run-in with some rather unsavory bandits, however, it wouldn’t look too good on her reputation to allow the famous man to die due to her neglect.

The day finally came, and as usual, Junko would awake before the sun rose in the sky. Knowing she had a rather long walk to the docks, she quickly got herself ready and began making her way to the meeting point. She wore a loose black skirt that stopped halfway down her thigh and a pair of matching black shorts under it. For a shirt, she wore a tight, low-cut, black tank top that hugged her lean body tightly. Around her ankle, a quiet jingling could be heard with each step as a silver anklet she wore around her leg rustled around.

Soon she would leave her home as the sun began to finally rise, taking her various equipment with her. Though not too competent with her tanto, she wanted to have it on her just in case. The streets were rather barren in the early hours of the morning, so only a few people would smile and wave to her as walked to the meeting point. She would soon come upon a small settlement that had popped up recently on the coast. Before she could approach, she would see a boat pull up to the docks and then watch as a rather large and looming figure made his way to shore.

The note had mentioned that Jamil planned on bringing some muscle with him, and the man who just stepped off the boat seemed to fit the bill. She began to approach the man who looked to be now carrying a rather large canvas bag that seemingly was his belongings. Before she reached him, a scrawny-looking man joined beside him which she assumed to be the man who hired her.

She would now approach the two men with a welcoming smile on her face, hoping to give off her normal charming aura. As she moved she seemed confident in her steps and held her high. She would stop about 5 meters in front of them, then offer a well-practiced curtsy.

”Welcome to Moon Country, my name is Junko Tsukiko. Are you Jamil Proctor? I received a letter requesting my aid in escorting you to the Tengakure ruins”

Her voice was sweet like honey but carried the weight of great respect as she addressed the men in front of her. Her skirt and long black hair would billow in the wind as the breeze from the ocean blew past her.

WC:502

“Yes yes yes yes yes you have no idea how long we have been waiting!” The architect would say talking just as much with his hands as he did his mouth.  His words at complete odds with the workers moving around him clearly still unloading the boat, while men finished hooking up horses for the carriage that would carry the man.  “I have a lot of money riding on this next job, and even more waiting for me back home, so lets get to it, I haven’t all day.”  With that he would make his way towards the carriage hardly offering a hello or greeting to their new guide. 
 
As he walked Kaito would follow, this wasn’t particularly an ideal position but it was one he was paid to do, and he would see it done.  “Now now boss, lets not be rude to the lady..”  At odds with he architects quick and nasally words, Kaito’s were slow and resonant.  It was a voice that had weight, and his tone said he’d been there, done that, and bought the t shirt in the process.  Wooden clogs clipped and clopped under the weight of the man as he followed slowly behind the man. 
 
 
"I demand utmost precision in every aspect of this project! We can't afford any mistakes, and I won’t be taking manners lessons from someone as unrefined as you."  The architect would say almost comically throwing his nose in the air and entering the closed carriage.  Door slamming behind him. 
 
Standing almost as tall as the carriage, Kaito simply lifted his large bag and put it on the roof out of the way, unbothered by the rudeness.  Turning he would look toward the woman, giving a polite bow that still left him taller than she.  “I’d say he grows on you, but just like you don’t want weeds in a garden…” He’d thumb towards the door “You don’t need that growth.”  He’d flash a brief smile before returning to a more stoic disposition, a crack in what otherwise would be an intimidating figure.  “You can call me Takeshiyama, I trust you to get us wherever we need to go….it’ll be a pleasure.”  Words holding the warmth of sincerity It was clear he believed what he said, and was confident that everything would work out…….but time would tell.
 
As they finished the pleasantries the carriage finally loaded up would begin to make its way towards the ruins and their destination. 

TWC - 952

Junkos cheery demeanor would crack slightly as the man chastised her, however still smiling through a clenched jaw. However for the time being she didn’t say anything about the rude remarks. She watched as the prick loaded up into the carriage and slammed the door loudly. Her gaze would then fall on the large man in front of her as he bowed to her and began speaking to her. As a sign of equal respect, she’d return the bow with a seemingly well-practiced curtsy.

As he finished speaking she would unclench her jaw, and revert back to her normal happy state. She would then thank her new companion for sticking up to the man and saying something in her defense. Though his figure was somewhat intimidating, it seemed that he had a rather relaxed and warm attitude, which she highly appreciated.

They would soon begin their journey, however before getting too far Junko would turn to him and say ”I’m happy to have you along, I don’t think I could bear traveling alone with that man”

She’d giggle at her comment, thinking he’d share the same sentiment. As they walked Junko would maintain a pleasant conversation, informing him of the various things the island could offer him. Mostly she talked about the diverse cultures and the handful of other shinobi that inhabited her home. If he allowed her to, she would talk frequently throughout the journey, though if he seemed uninterested she would stop, allowing him to have some peace. She would also offer him a place to stay while in Moon Country, stating she had a home that she shared with a few other shinobi so it was probably the most secure place within the borders.

As they made their way to their destination, she would inform him of the disfigured bandits that recently popped up. She’d describe them as humans that had been stitched together with various animals that seemingly were under the control of one individual. In all honesty, they were a bit overwhelming for Junko to deal with at this point in time, but was happy she had dependable allies.

Soon they would come upon the ruins, the gates were in shambles and it seemed as it nobody was around. Though Ren had previously been attacked here, so she was weary of entering. Before stepping into the ruins and announcing their arrival to Jamil she’d activate her Ketsuryugan and look around the immediate area. Her red eyes would glow with a dark intensity as she looked for any living creature in their vicinity. Seemingly they had company as she saw roughly 5 figures crouched behind some rubble about 10 meters away.

She would point the group out to Takeshiyama and request that he take the lead on this. Junko wanted to observe his combat prowess and see how well he could hold his own against a handful of combatants. Though if things got out of hand Junko was prepared to step in. She’d ask the carriage to halt, before informing the architect that there were some bandits incoming then inform him that it would be best to remain inside.

WC:534
Total WC1036

A deep chuckle would escape Kaito’s throat at her comments at their benefactors expense.  “Yes well….gotta pay the bills don’t we.”  He’d say with a warm smile.  Despite his large frame and even the scary nature of the small horns that jutted from his head it was quickly Apparently that Kaito was nothing more than an over sized, and perhaps over stuffed, teddy bear.  He tried to keep a stern expression at times, though his eyes almost always gave him away for the simple soul he was deep down.  They weren’t in the dohyo, it was necessary to enjoy life even when life made you work for it.  

Her constant stream of conversation was allowed to flow freely, to where she so desired it to take them.  After a rather recluse experience on the boat it was a pleasant change.  The benefactor had not been much company, and the other men on the boat had mostly avoided the man.  He would listen and ask questions where appropriate taking in what she had to say.  The only part he would make a grunt at was the mention of shinobi.  “I am no shinobi, but I thank you for your hospitality.”  He’d say simply his eyes measuring her.  On principal, he tended to be skeptical when it came to anything to do with the shinobi of the various lands.  

Still she had offered him nothing but hospitality, so to the best of his ability he shelved the prejudiced for the time being.  Her comments on its security would cause another chuckle to escape him, his belly shaking with the laughter.  It had a warm feeling to it, the kind of laugh that let you know it was with you and anything but at you.  “I am secure wherever I may find myself, because I am there.”  He’d say with a practiced slap to the side of his stomach reminiscent of the entrance ceremony.  “Still, I have business in about one month, and so a place to lay my head and train would be appreciated.”  From there he would do his own bit of talking, though not nearly as detailed as she had been.  His true name withheld, as well as his original home.  Rather he spoke of the recent sumo tournaments he had performed at, and how in one of the villages on the island, a small tournament was set to take place.  

Like a fine meal left out for too long however, their conversation soon spoiled at the mention of the abominations plaguing the area.  Something that had been thoroughly left out of the letter of invitation he had received to compete in the area…..convenient.  “As I said….safety follows me.”  He’d say smiling unconcerned.  “I may not be a shinobi, but I am Rikishi…..we do not frighten.”  

The journey would continue as the two continued to talk, though the kunoichi’s voice becoming more hushed as the horizon diminished into the ruins of Tengagakure.  Reaching up, the wrestler would stroke his chin looking at the skyscrapers that still stood, and even more so at the ones that did not.  He felt the change in his companions demeanor, and stepped forward because of it.  A man of his size would have a hard time hiding behind anyone, so why not be bold with each step?

it did not go unseen that her eyes changed color, he’d simply shake his head at the magics of the shinobi and look towards where her gaze had paused.  He was impressed with her quick thoughts of action.  A leaders tone, and a leaders decisive actions followed.  He simply bowed at her request and began to walk forward, wooden clogs still clipping and clipping beneath his weight.  He heard rather than saw her direct the carriage to halt.  Still there were other things to do….five men…….and he outweighed them all.  

It was an ambush they sought, and one that they would not find. Gesturing to Junko he advised they moved back.  He’d wait watching the rocks until he was certain they were out of harms way.  Once they were he’d step up, only 5 or so meters from where the creatures or men where hidden.  He would squat low, lower than a man his size typically could before what looked like the gathering of water in front of him.  Once the gesture was complete, he’d bring his hands together causing a loud clap that rang out through the ruins.  

As if on signal, this caused the creatures to relinquish their safety and charge the man.  Unbothered, on hand rested on his right knee, as his other leg came straight up, almost in a standing splits, flexibility shown of a much smaller man.  The bandits closed In and a skittish person would likely have begun to be nervous for the Ushitora man, until that was put to bed.  As he brought his foot down crashing into the earth, everything in front of the caravan would go red.  If any of the caravan folks had disobeyed Junko’s assumed directions they’d find their eye brows singed or worse as the fire engulfed a 15m diameter centering on where the rikishi had been.  

The resulting shockwave would shake not only the gates but the carriage.   Then as soon as it had begun, a second loud clap could be heard before a second stomp of his right leg, and the eruption of the Oni would be over.  Standing he’d bow, but at nothing that could be seen.  Whatever danger had threatened, did so no more.  

Turning he’d look towards Junko’s direction, “Make sure he pays both of us.”  He’d say with a smile oblivious to the actions that had just transpired.  

Jutsu used - Red Oni Eruption

Mission complete - exit

TWC - 1900

Claims (All jutsu claims at 25% discount due to max stats)
6.5k ryo (2k mission + 4K B rank + 500 due to max ap and converting ap rewards to ryo)

Using word count bank on top of what I got from
This mission.  3875 in my wc bank + 1900 = 5775

Using 1875 to turn Red Oni Eruption into an S rank from A rank utilizing my final slot less clan bloodline slot.  

Using 1.5k to double master Spine chill to make it require no hand seals.  

Remaining 2400 going towards mastering red Oni eruption for power.

As he requested, Junko would assist in repositioning the carriage to be out of the range of whatever the man was going to do. Once out of the way, Junko would direct her attention back to the man and watch closely as he calmly walked to where the men were hiding. She couldn’t help but feel excited to watch him fight, from what he had told her about his past she assumed that it would be quite the show. She’d lean on the carriage slightly as the man squatted closer to the ground and clapped his hands loudly.

The bandits would quickly move to swarm, and Junko had to hold herself back slightly not wanting to get caught in whatever the man was planning. She’d watch as they attempted to close the distance, however their plot would soon be foiled. A roaring inferno would erupt from the man which caused the carriage and building in the immediate area to shake. Thankfully it wasn’t enough to knock her off her feet, but she was in shock as she watched the man flawlessly eviscerate his foes. Since her dojutsu was still activated she was able to see through the fire and watched as every drop of blood from their bodies immediately evaporated into nothing.

The situation was over as quickly as it started, and she now found herself rather impressed by the man. She couldn’t help but think he’d make a great addition to the village she would soon be building with the other shinobi. However, she wasn’t going to bring this to his attention yet, from their conversation earlier she could tell he didn’t quite trust other shinobi so she was unsure if he’d agree to work with her. Though she was happy to hear that he would stay with her, perhaps once he met the others they would be able to change his mind.

She’d let out a laugh when he turned to her and mentioned getting paid. After composing herself she’d knock loudly on the carriage door and inform the architect that it was safe to come out now. After she reassured him a handful of times, she would open the door and motion for him to walk out. Reluctantly the man would step out and scan the area for any threats, to which he’d see none. Without many words being exchanged, the architect would begin to examine the nearly ruined gate complaining slightly due to its current state.

After the man had taken down some notes he quickly entered the carriage once more. Junko would let out a relieved sigh as the man was no longer in earshot. Quickly they’d follow the path back to the docks and complete their mission. The man was a bit reluctant to give them their pay, exclaiming that they didn’t do anything to justify such a high reward. Thankfully Junko was able to convince the man to hand over the payment after explaining that if hadn’t been for Takeshiyama eliminating the bandits he surely would have lost his life. A bit annoyed the man would toss them their money and would quickly dismiss them before making his way to a boat.

Junko then would lead Takeshiyama back to her home, and inform him that all the rooms had been taken. However, if he was alright with sharing a room with another member of the group she’d be happy to host him. She would keep the conversation pleasant as they made the short walk back to her home. Once inside she’d show him his sleeping quarters and give him a quick tour of the home.
(EXIT)

WC:602
Total WC:1638

Reserving WC Claims until previous posts have been approved

Mission Rewards
2,000 Ryo / 10 AP
Rewards doubled from Beloved Presence 4,000 Ryo 20 AP
Converting 20 AP to 1,000 Ryo
C Rank Vagabond bonus 2,000 Ryo
Total Ryo Gained: 7,000

Takeshiyama wrote:
Mission complete - exit

TWC - 1900

Claims (All jutsu claims at 25% discount due to max stats)
6.5k ryo (2k mission + 4K B rank + 500 due to max ap and converting ap rewards to ryo)

Using word count bank on top of what I got from
This mission.  3875 in my wc bank + 1900 = 5775

Using 1875 to turn Red Oni Eruption into an S rank from A rank utilizing my final slot less clan bloodline slot.  

Using 1.5k to double master Spine chill to make it require no hand seals.  

Remaining 2400 going towards mastering red Oni eruption for power.

Approved

WC Claims: (25% reduction max stats)
1125/1125 Bloodletting Technique previous training here
188/188 Drip
844/844 Earth Release: Underground Projection Fish Tech
Remaining WC: 470
Strenght of a Hundred Skill  470 WC converted into 8AP

New Strength of Hundred AP Total is 276/600, previous total of 268/600.

Junko Tsukiko wrote:
(EXIT)

WC:602
Total WC:1638

Reserving WC Claims until previous posts have been approved

Mission Rewards
2,000 Ryo / 10 AP
Rewards doubled from Beloved Presence 4,000 Ryo 20 AP
Converting 20 AP to 1,000 Ryo
C Rank Vagabond bonus 2,000 Ryo
Total Ryo Gained: 7,000

Also Approved!