In the Shadows

Thu Jul 04, 2024 1:27 am

The summer sun hung low in the sky, lengthening shadows and granting the village of Konoha a reprieve from the heat of the day. As the golden hues of sunset melted into the deep oranges and purples of twilight, a serene calm settled over the village. The once bustling streets grew quieter as villagers returned to their homes, their laughter and chatter fading into the gentle whisper of the evening breeze mingled with the chorus of distant cicadas.

Despite the waning light, the humidity lingered, wrapping the village in a warm, sticky embrace. In a vain attempt to ward off the clinging atmosphere, Natsumi Nara sat at home on the couch with a fan in one hand and an open book by her side. Much of her afternoon had been spent in the same position as if moving would have only made the heat all the more unbearable. Yet, it hadn’t been a bad day—her book on the history of Konoha made sure of that.

Unfortunately, a knock at the door pulled the Nara girl from the couch.

Where she expected to find a person, however, she instead found a scroll left on the stoop. Such scrolls, marked with the official seal of the village, had become commonplace in Natsumi’s life since being promoted to genin; a sealed scroll meant another mission. It seemed that finishing her book would have to wait for another day.

The mission readout made it clear that it wasn’t a run-of-the-mill task. It required going undercover at the reception of a Hyuuga wedding that evening to ensure the safety of the event and those attending. It was a far cry from the more basic missions the teen had become accustomed to, not that she was complaining. Moreover, the operation was to be done under the supervision and direction of a more experienced shinobi, who, much to her surprise, she was supposed to meet in roughly an hour.

With little time to waste, Natsumi became a whirlwind of activity. She brushed out her hair, splashed water on her face, and donned a blue yukata, featuring tasteful fish and wave motifs. To match the festival-like atmosphere further, she eschewed the headband that had become a permanent fixture around her neck on previous jobs. The mission called for a certain measure of discretion; she couldn't openly advertise her status as a kunoichi. By the end of her frenzied preparations, she looked like any other reception attendee: presumably excited to wish the newlyweds well and enjoy the evening.

An hour later, the genin stood beneath the only lit streetlight three blocks east of the Hyuuga district. It was here that she was meant to meet with the mission leader. The street was mostly empty; occasionally, a couple clad in formal attire passed by on their way to the Hyuuga district, but they neither lingered nor spared the short, black-haired girl a second glance. Instead, only the moths kept Natsumi company as they danced about in lazy loops near the streetlight above her head.

Waiting, she soon found, was the hardest part.
- - -
WC: 512
TWC: 512

C-rank Mission - Shadow Guards:

Sun Jul 07, 2024 12:33 pm

Off in the distance from the young Kunoichi she could hear what started off as a faint click, wood on stone, followed by two more similarly sounding clicks, the noise getting increasing louder as a old man walked down the street towards her. The balding white bearded man, wearing a black gi with a white haori, and wooden clogs on his feet, supported by a cane, the sources of the wood upon the cobblestone street sounds. Once the old coger was within ear shot of the Kunoichi and he could whisper to her a phrase, one that informed her of exactly who he was, and what his buisness was of for being there.

Rekka Meijin, was hunched over as he normally was, he was dressed in his usual attire, one that while looked nice suited him just fine in a fight as well. The Cane in his hand was just a simple cane at this time, the source of the singular wooden click before the coupled wooden clicks from the clogs on his feet. Rekka stood there with both of his hands on his cane, one over the other as he stared at the Kunoichi and they awaited for the final member of their team to arrive for the mission. Rekka silently stood unless Spoken to until the final member arrived so they could than plan their method of being covert and complete their mission successfully.

TWC- 236

Sun Jul 07, 2024 2:40 pm

The distinct click of wood on stone sent an unconscious shiver down the teen’s spine. She had once associated such a noise with her late grandfather who, until his passing, would hobble about the village going through his daily routine as if he were a man half his age. Tonight, however, it was not her grandfather who emerged from the darkness of the night, rather it was a different older man whose hunched stature belied an off-putting strength.

The elderly man’s whispered passphrase, ‘The cloaked blade sings in silence’, confirmed that he would be joining her on this particular mission. All that remained was the arrival of the third and final member of the group, their supposed leader. And, seemingly as the thought entered her mind, a third figure appeared on the far end of the block.

The third figure’s approach was soundless and his presence imposing, unlike the older shinobi by Natsumi’s side, this new arrival carried himself with the confidence of youth. Though he wore formal attire, the new figure’s military training shone through in his even stride, squared shoulders, and lightly scarred face. This was someone Natsumi could only hope to one day match in combat.

“The cloaked blade sings in silence,” the new arrival intoned, casting a steely gaze over his team for the evening before addressing them both. “Genin Meijin and Nara…”

Natsumi wrinkled her nose at the sound of her surname—far too formal.

“…I appreciate you both coming on short notice. We will have time for introductions and pleasantries at a later time and date, I trust you have both read the mission readout?” He did not stop for confirmation. “Meijin, I will have you covering the northern side of the gathering and, Nara, you will be taking the south. Our mission is simple: prevent anything from disrupting the reception, including your own actions. Ensure any troublemakers are subdued without making a scene. Any questions?”

Natsumi shook her head and glanced over at the older man who, despite his hunched state, still stood a head taller than her. What kind of name was Meijin anyway? The surname didn’t ring a bell to the Konoha-native; a mystery that would have to remain for another time.

“Very well,” their leader said after answering any questions the older man might have. “Let’s head out.”

Joining the stream of partygoers on the main thoroughfare, Natsumi drifted away from the mission leader and the Meijin as she made her way to her assigned sector. Soon streetlights gave way to lanterns, and the crowd's buzz mingled with the twang of a shamisen. If nothing else, the Hyuuga knew how to throw a party, as the large courtyard hosting the reception brimmed with activity from all walks of life.

While most attendees drank, ate, and laughed, the teen drifted about without partaking in any of the party’s luxuries, save for a few bites of sushi here and there. Instead, her eyes flitted from face to face and conversation to conversation, looking for anything untoward and giving the Meijin and the team leader a covert, knowing nod each time their paths crossed. Unfortunately, for much of the evening, all the faces were just faces and the conversation was just conversation. It seemed most attendees were more interested in gossiping about the bride and groom than performing any nefarious acts.

However, as the night went on and drink flowed more freely, it became clear what Natsumi’s role was to be when the first drunk guest began talking a bit too loudly, much to the detriment of the evening’s mood. Instead of entering into a shouting match with the inebriated man, the Nara wove a few quick hand signs away from prying eyes, allowing her shadow to extend through the crowd. Dodging through the dance floor, her shadow found that of the over-served gentleman and easily wrested control of his physical facilities from him. From there it was easy enough to walk the disruption right out of the party without another word.

Managing drunks was not what she had expected for such a mission, but she couldn’t complain too much—public drunkenness was technically a crime. Over the next couple of hours, Natsumi “escorted” several more individuals out of the party using the Nara clan's technique. Some were more difficult than others, but the alcohol helped ensure the Nara didn’t encounter too much resistance.

By the end of the evening, she couldn’t help but wonder if the team leader and the Meijin had encountered anything more interesting on the north side of the reception. Babysitting adults was all well and good, but she couldn’t help feeling as if she’d drawn the short end of the stick. Oh well, it was another mission in the books and another night of missed sleep.
- - -
Exit.
WC: 796
TWC: 1308

Thread Claims
+13 Vigor
+6000 ryo and +30 AP from completing C-rank: Shadow Guards, 1000/1000 split wc req.
223 words toward training Mind Read — 27 words previously trained + 223 words = 250/250, jutsu fully learned.
1085 words toward training Chakra Sensory

Math: 223 + 1085 = 1308

Sat Aug 03, 2024 4:39 am

Moments later, a third shinobi approached them, discreetly giving the same password. With all three confirmed as allies, The newcomer revealed his role as the leader of the operation. Upon which time he would instruct Rekka to take up his watch along the north side of the party, and than Natsume the south side of the party. Once the Instructions was given, each took off in their respective directions, with the third man disappearing into the crowd right in the middle itself.

The Hyuuga estate was bustling with activity. Colorful lanterns hung from every tree, casting a warm glow over the grounds. The air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter, and the aroma of delicious food wafted through the air.

The three shinobi separated, each blending into the crowd. Rekka had no problems fitting in, as most villagers assumed he was retired and merely attending as a guest. He stopped and chatted with familiar faces, acting as if he had been invited, which he likely was. However, the mission at hand took precedence over everything else in his mind.

The night seemed to pass by rather uneventfully. Rekka kept a watchful eye out, scrutinizing every corner and every individual for signs of trouble. His senses, honed by years of experience, were attuned to the slightest disturbance. Yet, nothing out of the ordinary caught his attention.

Rekka's methodical patrol took him through the lively crowd, past the lantern-lit paths, and around the festive gathering areas. He noted the behavior of guests, looking for any subtle signs of unease or hidden agendas. But all he encountered were joyous faces and lively conversations.

Rekka employed a series of tactics to ensure thorough surveillance while maintaining his cover. First, he used the cover of social interactions to discreetly scan the area. Engaging in casual conversations allowed him to pause and observe without drawing attention. He laughed and joked with old acquaintances, his eyes never ceasing their vigilant sweep of the surroundings.

Secondly, Rekka utilized his knowledge of the estate's layout to his advantage. He strategically positioned himself at vantage points where he could oversee large sections of the event. By frequently changing his location, he ensured that no area was left unchecked for too long. He moved fluidly from one position to another, his transitions seamless and unnoticed.

Thirdly, Rekka paid close attention to body language. Years of experience had taught him to read subtle cues that indicated nervousness or deceit. He watched for fidgeting hands, darting eyes, and hurried movements. Whenever he noticed someone exhibiting suspicious behavior, he would subtly shadow them, staying just close enough to intervene if necessary.

As the event drew to a close, Rekka realized he hadn't crossed paths with the other two shinobi since their initial meeting. He trusted their abilities and knew they would handle their designated areas with the same vigilance. The lack of disturbances suggested a well-executed mission.

By the end of the event, Rekka had not encountered the other two shinobi again. It seemed they had each gone their separate ways for the time being. Rekka wasn't concerned about it; the mission report would be handled by their superior, and he trusted the efficiency of his fellow shinobi.

Rekka lingered a bit longer, ensuring all guests left safely and that the Hyuuga estate returned to its usual tranquility. He then made his way back home, reflecting on the uneventful but successful night. Despite his age, Rekka felt a renewed sense of purpose and satisfaction from his covert mission.

The village remained unaware of the silent protectors among them, and Rekka preferred it that way. His role as a guardian was best served from the shadows, ensuring peace without the need for recognition or accolades. As he walked through the quiet streets, Rekka felt reassured that he was still capable of safeguarding his village, a silent sentinel in the night.

Rekka's steps were sure and steady as he walked through the village streets, the sounds of the celebration fading behind him, the only sounds left being the wooden clinks of his sandels and his cane upon the stone walking path back home. He had completed his mission successfully, and the village was none the wiser. It was the way he preferred it...a quiet guardian, always vigilant, always ready to act.

Upon his return home, he would not immediately go inside, rather the Old man would take a seat within a wooden rocking chair on his front stoop and look out at the village as a whole. The Old Man's age would begin to catch up to him as he drifted to sleep in the chair.

773

TWC 1009 (EXIT)

1813 in Claims already remaining 249 for Fifth Form Flame Tiger A-Rank

Gen Release Mastery 250

First Form Unknowing Fire 500 to Upgrade to C-rank

20 Ap Trained for Max Stats
+6000 Ryo, +30 AP For Mission

Sat Aug 03, 2024 4:53 pm

Rekka Meijin wrote:

TWC 1009 (EXIT)

1813 in Claims already remaining 249 for Fifth Form Flame Tiger A-Rank

Gen Release Mastery 250

First Form Unknowing Fire 500 to Upgrade to C-rank

20 Ap Trained for Max Stats
+6000 Ryo, +30 AP For Mission

Approved!
In the Shadows JPYXIpT

Tue Aug 06, 2024 12:18 pm

Natsumi Nara wrote:
- - -
Exit.
WC: 796
TWC: 1308

Thread Claims
+13 Vigor
+6000 ryo and +30 AP from completing C-rank: Shadow Guards, 1000/1000 split wc req.
223 words toward training Mind Read — 27 words previously trained + 223 words = 250/250, jutsu fully learned.
1085 words toward training Chakra Sensory

Math: 223 + 1085 = 1308

Approved!

In the Shadows

In the Shadows

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