[4] Kazekage Tower

[Flower]

[Shihana enter.]

Shihana (or I suppose it's Kazekage Shihana now, she thought to herself) looked around the Kazekage Tower. She had been here several times before, nothing new, except that everything was new and different now. She was Kazekage and Shiki, well, what had happened to Shiki? She had hired some hands to move around some of the furniture and items in the tower, but left it looking relatively the same. She took to Shiki's old office, keeping whatever remained of his trophy room in tact, and moved out all of his stuff and replacing it with her own. An oak-wood desk suited her well, and there was several bookshelves and dressers brought in. A small workbench up against one wall displayed an assortment of odd organisms in jars, as well as other alchemist supplies. A crooked lamp twisted in the corner of the room and provided a dim light, just how Shihana liked it. She was dressed in her ordinary black and white dress that fell just below her knees, with long, black leggings and black nail polish decorating her fingertips. Her violet eyes stared out from under her white bangs, her hair stretching across her back with the one, black strip hanging on her left side. A sand-colored cloak covered her dress, opened in the front, with the kanji for "Fourth" written in red stitching on the back. 

An ANBU guard had accompanied her in the office as she looked around. "Yes, yes, this will do," she said and sent him away. But not before giving him a message to seek out the ninja, Isamu, and tell him to report to the Kazekage Tower. And Shiki if he was around. She sat down in her office and let out a long sigh, looking around the room that was devoid of Shiki's presence. It had been an emotional day. Shihana took her hair tie out and let it fall around her waist, the sweat beginning to pool on her lower back. Why was I chosen for this? she wondered. 

Because it is time that we took advantage of our opportunities. Valerys chuckled internally. She was pleased with the turn of events although did miss her old village, and her old kage, despite her big talk. She had never wanted to be in control either, act as a leader. But the new Kazekage looked around her office, getting used to the setting, and waited for the first of her guests to arrive. She had quite a bit of work to get done. 

[Christoff]

[Enter]
Isamu alighted at the entrance to the tower and strode past security. The air was still with the summer heat, and he was in his element. The ANBU had found him sparring against a few regular partners practicing his forms. Isamu was in his full mission kit. Clad in a black t-shirt and tactical vest, headband around his forehead Isamu looked as he often did these days. He was preparing for the Chunin Exams and becoming accustomed to fighting with the gear he intended to carry with him. Isamu's sword was fastened to his left hip and his cloak fluttered in an unnatural breeze that touched only him.

Isamu had taken to the air at once to answer his new Kazekage's summons. Wondering what turn of events, what twist of fate, had placed his partner in this new position. The Sadojin stalked across the lobby. His curiosity and apprehension tugged each foot forward in turn. Soon he was at the foot of the stairs. Collecting himself, Isamu resisted the urge to fly up them and took them one at at time. Now he stood at the top of the stairs looking at the entrance to Shihana's new offices. Walking to her receptionist Isamu checked in, "Isamu Shounin, answering a summons from the Kazekage."

[Flower]

Miss Winter looked closely at the man as he came up to the front desk, her orange hair pinned along the side of her face and wearing an official Sand Village outfit fully equipped with a headband. Aurora looked far less official. But Miss Winter said, "Oh great, yes, we've been waiting. Walk on back through the trophy room and you'll find her in the office." If Isamu followed her directions then he'd be led into Shiki's Trophy Room which had whatever remained still in the room, untouched. Shihana's office would be nestled further back and when she saw Isamu she'd glance up from her desk.

"Now don't go laughing at me now," Shihana said, with a look on her face, as her teammate approached. She tugged at her robe. "Does this thing even look right?"

She'd stand up to demonstrate her point, and then walk out of the office and motion for Isamu to follow her even as they spoke to one another. Their conversation would continue as Shihana took Isamu back into the trophy room and down a hall, so that the two of them were standing in front of ANBU guards. They nodded as Shihana approached, and she nodded back, although it seemed that more was going on here. Isamu and Shihana would be allowed to enter the room where several items would be standing on the table. They had been gathered from the Armoury before Isamu arrived and placed in the room. There was ten, empty leyden jutsu bottles, a Dungeoneer's Compass, two wireless radios, an enhancement stabilizer, and a cryo enhancement. Shihana smirked and showed that she also had a wireless radio.

"For the Chuunin exams, if you want any of it," she said and held her own radio, "And we can be in contact. Channel 3." She looked at Isamu and waited to see what he had to say, excited that they would still be going to the Chuunin Exams together -- although knowing that now there was a slightly additional objective.

SPOILER: Click to show

Compass Dungeoneer's (Overview) 
Rank: "S"
Type: Secondary, 4 per Slot, Gadget, Survival, Compass
Effect: A specialized compass having a lens for reading and pointing towards a point considered as an "exit".
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: This functional-looking compass is pocket sized. While inside any enclosed space (buildings, caves, mazes, dungeon complexes, etceteras), the needle of a Dungeoneer's Compass unerringly points toward any viable point of exit. The Dungeoneer's Compass is 3.25 inches by 2.25 inches and 1.125 thick. Without a Compass there is a percentile chance the user will not be able to determine Exit. The "Exit" may not always be a "correct" exit as.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Gadget Shop.
Cost: 60,000 Ryo per Slot, or 15,000 Ryo Each

Wireless Radio x2
Rank: "S"
Type: Secondary, 16 per Slot, Gadget, Surveillance, Transmitter
Effect: A radio transmitting device that sends signals through electromagnetic waves.
Special: ---
Drawback: Limited Range in transmitting information.
Description: Picture A Device that has a Velcro strap along the neck with a voice activator along the throat. An ear piece is connected from the vocal piece to the ear in a small cord. It's a radio that transmits signals by sending electromagnetic waves with frequencies below those of visible light. They can then be received by other radios in the form of sound or a wide array of signals in order to make sure important information is protected. When rolled and compact, 16 Wireless Radios are able to fit inside 1 slot. The range between two Wireless Radios is 1,000 meters (Communications for a single thread.)
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Gadget Shop.
Cost: 16,000 Ryo per Slot, or 1,000 Ryo Each

Leyden Jutsu Bottle x10
Rank: "A"
Type: Secondary, 15 per Slot, Bottle
Effect: A capacitor consisting of a glass jar lined inside and out with metal foil capable of storing Jutsus.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: This is a form of a capacitor consisting of a glass jar lined inside and out with metal foil and having a conducting rod connected to the inner foil lining and passing out of the jar through the insulated stopper. Mithral and Platinum wiring is used to be pressed onto the outside of the bottle and sealed in place with an alchemical fixative. Users have learned how to store Jutsus in a Leyden Jutsu Bottle using the Magnetic Jutsu Bottle Binding Ritual. The Jutsu effect is released and triggered when the bottle is broken or the metal rod in the stopper is completely depressed. The Leyden Jutsu Bottle can typically be thrown like a Grenade, or used as a trap by getting an opponent to depress a trigger or force it to break. These are too fragile to fire from a cannon and too large to fire from a bow/crossbow/sling. However, they may be fired from a catapult or affixed to the end of a ballista bolt. Cost of Jutsu in a Bottle along with % chance of finding is dependent on the Type of Jutsu. Please look at Leyden Jutsu Bottle Table for more Information.
Limit: These types of items may be bought inside any Alchemist Shop.
Cost: 600 Ryo Each.

Enhancement Stabilizer
Rank: "A"
Type: Main, Gadget, Mechanical, Weapon Enhancement
Effect: A device that stabilizes the usage of enhancements, allowing a user to apply more than one enhancement to a device where only one is possible.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Some enhancements have a drawback and may not be applied with other Enhancements. This enhancement bypasses this drawback by creating a complicated system inside the item allowing the user to switch from 1 Enhancement to the other flawlessly while in battle. The intricate system allows the user to switch from one enhancement to the next within a 1 second time. The stabilizer is a clockwork device, allowing the other components work together by transforming the device to its right gear set, stabilizing the effect, and ensuring its full functionality. The Visual effects of an Enhancement still exists and will change depending on the active Enhancement.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Gadget Shop.
Cost: 35,000 Ryo

Cryo Enhancement
Rank: "B"
Type: Main, Gadget, Mechanical, Weapon Enhancement
Effect: An enhancement that is attached to weapons to increase striking power with Cold Damage.
Special: ---
Drawback: May Only Apply 1 Enhancement on Weapon.
Description: An enhancement that adds Cold Damage to any striking attacks while using a Weapon. The system is devised as a transference system, pumping all the heat, and converting it into extreme coldness with multiple gears and fans charging a metal to give a burst, or keep cool. Due to this system through the weapon, cryo coolness is transferred from the components inside to an impact point, and causes the weapon to glow with blue energy when activated. Normally used against flaming blockades. Causes ice burns and can freeze a 1/3rd of a meter per impact. The Cryo Enhancement releases 20 armour points worth of cold damage on top of an attack. If the item makes continuous contact with a target it emits 10 Armour Points (20 Armour Points against Fire Defenses) worth of Cold Damage per second against said target and may freeze a 1/3rd of a meter per second. 10 Armour Points of Cold damage may be transferred to another item (1 second activation) allowing that item to cause a single cold attack on top of its own striking attack for 1/2 a round.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Gadget Shop.
Cost: 20,000 Ryo

[Christoff]

Isamu followed Miss Winter back into the now familiar offices. Much of the decor consisted of holdovers from Shiki Senri's time as Kazekage. Some pieces he recognized from Amira's reign, perhaps they had graced these offices since the construction of the tower. Isamu was ushered into the old trophy room and saw Shihana for the first time hunkered behind her desk.

Shihana's lilac eyes met his and she broke the tension, "Now don't go laughing now at me. Does this thing even look right?" Isamu appreciated that Shihana was signaling their partnership was not ending. Isamu bowed deeply, "It is an honor to serve, but you'll have to find someone else to critique your sartorial choices." As Isamu straightened he smiled at Shihana. His mind flashed to Amira. She had always appreciated having someone who she could be herself with, perhaps he could fill a similar role for Shihana. All within the proper bounds of protocol of course. After all, he was still only a Genin.

Shihana rose and beckoned Isamu to follow. The Sadojin walked just slightly behind the Kazekage; down a hallway he had never traveled. They arrived at a door guarded by two ANBU and Isamu watched as they parted to allow Shihana and the Sadojin to pass. As Isamu entered the room he noted an array of gear spread across the table. Shihana spoke, "For the Chuunin exams, if you want any of it, And we can be in contact. Channel 3."

Isamu felt a swell of anticipation rise inside him at the mention of the exams. He answered her softly, "Thank you Shihana." Isamu reached to his belt and pulled out the receiver for his wireless radio changing the channel to three. Silently he moved to the clear jars, lifting one and examining it closely. Isamu knew the ritual that sealed them was similar to his own method. Less powerful but also less volatile. Isamu placed the jar down and lifted the enhancement stabilizer. After considering it closely he tucked the stabilizer and cryo enhancement into his cloak and turned back to Shihana.

Isamu turned now to Shihana to ask the question weighing on his mind, "I am very happy for you but," He paused. "What happened to Shiki Senri?"

[Flower]

Shihana glanced away with a painful glow in her lilac eyes. It was an expression that she didn't ordinarily show. "I'm not sure," she admitted and pushed a strand of white hair out of her face, "I haven't been able to speak with him, or seen him, since I was appointed. But when I see him, I'm gonna make sure that he knows we still need him around." Shihana tried to give Isamu a reassuring smile, but she really didn't know what had happened to their previous kage. But she intended to find out...

"Don't worry. I'll make sure we figure out what happened to him," Shihana said and left it at that. "For now, I need to discuss something else with you. It's about the Chuunin Exams. I have a special mission request for you. I will be attending the exams as one of my other personalities -- Selyse. I'll be in disguise. Nobody will know that I'm the Kazekage. I'm looking to assess the strength of the ninja from the other nations on an undercover mission, and I'll need your support. I know that it's a lot to ask, but if you do this with me then it will be considered a B-ranked mission and fulfill one of your ANBU Prerequisites." Shihana took a slip of official looking paper out of her dress and handed it to Isamu, detailing the entire mission.

SPOILER: Click to show

Name: Special Mission! Chuunin Exam Intel Operation
Rank: "B"
IIC Length: As necessary to complete the exams
Difficulty: Moderate - Hard
Objective: Make it through the Chuunin Exams with the Kazekage, keeping her in disguise as well as gathering intel on the ninja of other nations.
Description: Fulfills one ANBU Prerequisite Mission credit. Must work as a team with the Kazekage in order to ensure that her identity remains a secret and investigate the ninja of other nations in the Chuunin Exams for information. Try to figure out names, villages, abilities, skills, and personality. Be prepared to write an official report after the exams on information gathered. Do not necessarily have to achieve Chuunin to fulfill this mission although it is expected.
Reward: 70,000 ryo + 1 ANBU Prerequisite Mission Credit for Owl, Bear, Cat, Frog, and Wolf Divisions.

Shihana would watch him read the mission report and see if he accepted. She didn't know if Isamu was interested in ANBU, and if so which division, but she hoped that this would be a gift and not a boon. Shihana did believe that a strong ANBU presence was vital, just like her mentor: Shiki Senri.

"So what do you think?"

[Christoff]

Isamu watched impassively as Shihana answered his question, noting her discomfort with it. Shihana clearly knew as little about the transition as he did. That was concerning but not completely unexpected given what he knew about Shiki Senri. The few times he had interacted directly with the former Kazekage, Shiki had shown himself to be secretive. He had even seen Shiki tell a Genin that he was only the Jounin Commander. Isamu looked Shihana in the eyes and offered his thoughts to her, "Shiki always was secretive... and I have a hard time believing he could be removed without his consent."

Shihana handed him a slip of paper and outlined her plans for the exams. It was comforting to know that she still planned to attend, but the risk to the village was greatly heightened by her participation. It also increased the burden on him. It flashed briefly through Isamu's mind that his years of preparation for the exams, and his goal to be promoted to Chuunin were once again secondary. As he read the mission tamped that down. Sacrifice for the village was the first things a shinobi learned and he would still be at the exam with a chance to pass.

"Thank you Shihana,I accept. I have worked for a long time to even have the opportunity to attend the exams. It has been hard to look beyond that but I would be honored to serve someday in the Bear division. I served on a protection detail for Lady Amira in the past. It gave me a taste for the work and I found I was well suited to it." Isamu's speech was measured and formal. Shihana was a partner and friend, but also the Kazekage and Isamu was keenly aware that the two ANBU were still guarding the door. It would undermine both his future ambitions and Shihana's authority to have a Genin taking too much familiarity with her.

[Flower]

"That actually does make me feel better," Shihana said in response to Shiki and then listen as he accepted the exams and the mission. Shihana almost smiled, although Isamu had still never seen such expressions except unless it was a part of her disguise, and put her right hand on Isamu's shoulder and looked into his face to let him know she was sincere. So much for formality. "But I'm not just some push-over," she said, "and one reason I still wanted to go to the exams is to protect my ninja who have entered. We're a team after all, Isamu, can't let you go running off to become a Chuunin without me." She chuckled before leading back out of the room, now that Isamu had his items, and back to the Kazekage Office.

Shihana was about to dismiss him, but then seemed to remember something. "Hold on," she said, "I almost forgot -- it has been so hectic. I'm traveling to meet with the Yukikage soon. The details haven't been set, but keep your eyes open for a message from my ANBU. If you want to go, I will need protection in case it doesn't go well -- the perfect job if you were to be a part of the Bear Division. The issues we'll be discussing are of a very sensitive nature and, if you hear anything, you cannot share it with anybody else. Secrecy is another requirement for ANBU." She waited to see if Isamu would take this on as well, surprised by how much he could handle at once. Finally, Shihana felt things were beginning to pick up pace and if she was coming into her role as the kage if even just a little.

[Christoff]

"But I'm not just some push-over, and one reason I still wanted to go to the exams is to protect my ninja who have entered. We're a team after all, Isamu, can't let you go running off to become a Chuunin without me." Isamu smiled a the Kazekage. He was starting to feel some excitement and anticipation for the adventure ahead. Isamu followed Shihana back towards the office.

As they reached the office and Isamu prepared to take his leave Shihana interrupted, "I almost forgot -- it has been so hectic. I'm traveling to meet with the Yukikage soon. The details haven't been set, but keep your eyes open for a message from my ANBU. If you want to go, I will need protection in case it doesn't go well -- the perfect job if you were to be a part of the Bear Division. The issues we'll be discussing are of a very sensitive nature and, if you hear anything, you cannot share it with anybody else. Secrecy is another requirement for ANBU." Isamu faced her once more and said, "Of course I will accompany you, and I would never breathe a word about village business." Isamu bowed as he made his departure, "I will await word on your plans."

(Exit)

[Flower]

Isamu left and it was quiet in the office for a while. Shihana had all sorts of paperwork that needed to be done and spent many hours arched over the desk, wondering why being kage meant so much formality. After a while she thought up an idea to her plan to speak with the Yukikage and sat down to write two letters. One to Isamu and one to the Yukikage.

Yukikage:

SPOILER: Click to show

Dear Yukikage,

Sand and snow
rapidly approach
the beginning of
a new chapter.
Meet me at
Hatshepsut
when the red sun
bathes the grow-
ing desert shrubs.

Sincerely,
    the Kazekage

Isamu:

SPOILER: Click to show

Name: Special Mission! Sand and Snow (Pt. 1)
Rank: "B"
IIC Length: n/a
Difficulty: Moderate
Objective: Escort the Kazekage to meet the Yukikage and protect her in the event of an attack. 
Description: Escort the Kazekage to meet the Yukikage at the Hatshepsut Temple. Make sure that she is protected and kept from any harm while meeting with her guests. Sensitive information will be exchanged during the meeting which is to be kept confidential. Any additional information that can be observed by the shinobi is of added benefit. Considered an interactive mission. 
Reward: 65,000 ryo + 1 ANBU pre-requisite mission credit for Bear, Frog, or Dragon divisions.

Then she called in two members of her guard to take the letters. One to send the letter, to the Yukikage, via the messenger animals of one of the sacred temples. And another to find Isamu and to deliver to him the mission information.

[Ghost - Koatah ♣]

/Enter

Koatah arrived at the Kazekagé tower in her standard attire. The Vest holding kunai, an arrange of succulents with roots up her arms. The white hair in a pony tail with long curtains along side her face. Her black vest and dress, with the maroon tights and ninja sandals fished off the look while the swarm of butterflies flutter around her dancing in the reflected light of the headband sewn into the back of her jacket.

The Eight year old would get in line and wait to be called up to the desk. "Umm.. Excuse me. I was told I should come to the tower now. I Graduated from the academy a few days ago."

[Flower]

As Koatah walked into the Kazekage Tower, she'd see the large auditorium that made up the lobby and the assistant Geneva Winters sitting at the front desk. There were several ANBU guards but they didn't seem to pay much attention to the young Kaguya. "Oh yes," Geneva said and looked through some paperwork, then back up at the young girl. "I see now. A new Genin huh?" She smirked and seemed to be stifling a bit of a chuckle. "Welcome to the Sand. Walk on back through the door behind me and you'll come to the Kazekage's Office. You'll want to speak to her."

If Koatah did as Geneva instructed, then she'd walk into a massive trophy room that was decorated with the bodies of various great beasts that the previous Kazekage, Shiki Senri, had displayed from his victorious battles. She'd be able to see all of the elaborate trophies before passing into the Kazekage's Office, which was strewn with papers, jars, books, and other tools from the various tabletops and shelves about the room. Shihana labored over some work, her long, white hair falling on to the top of her desk. A black strand laying along her left side. She wore her usual black dress and had guards around outside the door in case of an attack, which she found unlikely.

As Koatah approached, the door would be open. Shihana would look up as the girl came closer and bring her hands to a fold in front of her face. As if she were inspecting the genin. "Well hello," Shihana would say, staring at Koatah with her lilac-colored eyes, "you must be one of our new ninja. My name is Kazekage Shihana, otherwise known as the Death Flower. Welcome to the Sand Village." There was a faint smile on her lips, but barely noticeable at all.

[Ghost - Koatah ♣]

Koatah nodded her head listening as the receptionist, a little reserved and shy about her first time in the tower she kept her hands behind her back and her head tilted ever so slightly down. Once dismissed from the front desk Koatah made her way around and entered through the door. The many beasts held as trophies on the wall scared her, while they were dead and stuffed, the sheer fact there were creatures and beasts like that existing scared her. As she walked all the butterflies picking up on her fear would fly down and take perch on her arms, resting on the flowers or on her body to try and comfort their new living host.

When Koatah entered into the room at the end and finally laid eyes on the lady Kagé, she felt a bit too intimidated to look upon her face, barely noticing the black strand of hair before her eyes returned to the Lady Kagé's shoes. Yes I am miss, I am Koatah Kitateha your highness. It is nice to meet you Lady Death Flower" As Koatah finished talking she slowly held out her hand in the general direction of the kage as an attempt to shake it, the butterflies still holding fast on her arm and flowers.

[Flower]

Although Shihana was fond of the formality, Valerys was giddy at the praise, and she stood as she took hold of Koatah's hand. "It's nice to meet you Koatah." She paid attention to the butterflies and flowers that covered her arms. "An interesting technique. You'll have to tell me about it." As she said this, Shihana held out her hand and ushered in one of the ANBU. "Go to the armory and grab me a starter tool set," she said to the guard and they were off in the blink of an eye.

Shihana would motion toward one of the other chairs in the office made from a dark, maroon leather. Fortunately it was not covered with any of the tossed-around paper and junk. "And tell me a little bit about yourself. I've got some things I'd like to discuss, now that you're a ninja and all, but I'd like to know about you. It's best if comrades know one another personally." She'd wait for Koatah to take a seat and then sit down as well, ready to listen to what she had to say as well as wait for the guard to return with her requested gear.

[Ghost - Koatah ♣]

"Thank you Lady Flower, it is a gift of the Kitateha clan... I can't do much with them yet though. They can be used to make genjutsu happen though, that's all I know so far I am too young to learn too much more." When the AnBu was sent off to the armoury Koatah took a harsh swallow, was this good or bad? Koatah wasn't aware but whenever someone had been sent to fetch something growing up it rarely worked out in her favour.

Once the lady Kazekagé motioned to a seat Koatah followed the instruction and took the seat, her legs swinging just off of the floor as she got herself comfortable. Once seated several of the swarm butterflies took to the room and landed across various parts of the office, sitting on book cases, the chairs, and one even landing on the lady Kazekage before being swiftly recalled with a swift apology from the young genin. "I am Koatah Kitateha, I graduated from the academy last week and as a congratulations my Auntie gave me my own butterfly swarm. Otherwise I can do something a bit weird, I don't know if only I can do it apart from my old family."

Gritting her teeth she lifted up her arm and bent it as a bone popped out of her elbow. With her free hand she took ahold of the bone and pulled it out from her arm as her body instantly refreshed and replaced the bone with liquid calcium floating around her body. Now in her hand she would hold a small tanto, complete with a handle but no guard. "I can pull my bones out of my body."

[Flower]

Shihana watched with curiosity as the butterflies landed on all the furniture and walls in the room, and grew even more curious as Koatah drew a bone from her elbow. Shihana put a finger to her lip in contemplation and finally said, "I haven't seen anything like it. You're young but you're full of potential." Then Shihana seemed to be lost in thought as she spoke with Valerys from the interior of her mind. She remembered Shiki, her mentor, and the first time she had met him in this same office. Shihana reached around for some papers and, when she glanced back at Koatah, she said, "I'm looking for a student. My records indicate that you use taijutsu and genjutsu. So do I. I'm a master of Tensora and Dim Mak, as well as the Phantasm and Enchantment perceptions. If you ever want to study my techniques, and philosophy, I have a dojo in the Land of Wind. After you've trained a little more and become a stronger ninja, seek me out and I will teach you what I know."

At that moment the ANBU guard would return with a main pack in his hands. Shihana stood up to meet him and gave the pack to Koatah. "Here," she said, "This is for you." Koatah could tell by the weight of the pack that there were items inside, and when she looked she'd find a butt pack, a standard flashlight, two knives, two wireless radios, and a lockpicking kit. "It's not much, but it will get you started. 

"Now you are officially a Sand ninja. Be proud. In time, perhaps you'll even become a Chuunin or ANBU yourself. This is not a path for the faint of heart. There are dangers and perils to being a shinobi, but I will always be there for you. Become stronger and we will show every other nation what Sand is capable of." Then she was done, telling Koatah everything she had wanted to and waiting to see how she'd respond. The girl was young, it was true, but she reminded Valerys of herself when left the docks of Mt. Agari. She was still a blank canvas. With the right sensei, perhaps she could turn out to be quite the useful ally and potential assassin. 

SPOILER: Click to show

• Starter Tool Set, "D-rank" [total value: 30,500 ryo]
  Requirements: Available to any shinobi once they register with the Sand Village.
  • Butt Pack x1 (2000 ryo)
  • Main Pack x1 (14000 ryo)
  • Standard Flashlight x1 (1500 ryo)
  • Knife x2 (1000 ryo)
  • Wireless Radio x2 (2000 ryo)
  • Lockpick Kit x1 (10000 ryo)
  
  
  SPOILER: Click to show
  
  Pack, Butt
  Rank: "C"
  Type: Main, Slot Holder, 10 Slot, Wearable Container
  Effect: Butt packs are small to medium sized packs worn around the belt, above a person's behind, similar to a fanny pack.
  Special: ---
  Drawback: ---
  Description: Picture The butt pack has the volume for 10 Slots, so it can hold a plethora of items inside. 1 Butt Pack takes up 3 Pouch Slots when applying to Individual Integrated Fighting System apparel and other basic apparel. It can be attached to a Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment system, attached to Basic Apparel, or carried like a Wearable Container as it has a handle along the midsection of the pack along the top. Butt packs are commonly worn by military during missions to carry combat essentials while keeping their hands free. Butt packs are stylish packs that can be worn by anyone to carry everyday essentials.
  Limit: These type of items may be bought inside any Tailor Shop.
  Cost: 2,000 Ryo Each.
  
  Pack, Main
  Rank: "B"
  Type: Main, Slot Holder, 70 Slots, Wearable Container
  Effect: Main Packs were meant for long distances, allowing the user to essentially live out of it.
  Special: ---
  Drawback: ---
  Description: Picture The main pack has a volume for 70 slots. Contains a front pocket to house multiple items. The flap covering the top opening of the rucksack provides water resistance, and has a mesh pocket for small reference and information materials. It is secured with a hook and loop closure. The lower compartment provides storage of readily available mission items. The Main Pack incorporates drain holes. The exterior sides and outermost side of the main pack contains Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment system webbing to accomplish secure attachment/detachment of the modular pouches/pockets and other individual equipment items and carriers. The sides can have 3 Pouches each, while the front end can have 12 pouches. Inside the Main Pack, against the back panel, is a water-resistant, removable radio pouch
  Limit: These type of items may be bought inside any Tailor Shop.
  Cost: 14,000 Ryo Each.
  
  Flashlight, Standard (Overview)
  Rank: "B"
  Type: Secondary, 4 per Slot, Gadget, Survival, Light
  Effect: A portable light source.
  Special: ---
  Drawback: ---
  Description: Flashlights come in a wide variety of sizes and quality levels. Those covered here are professional, heavy-duty models, rugged enough to withstand the rigors of modern adventuring. Flashlights negate penalties for darkness within their illuminated areas. This heavy metal flashlight projects a beam 30 feet long and 15 feet across at its end. It increases the light level in the area beyond its initial cone by one step, out to 60 feet long and 30 feet wide. It does not increase the light level in normal light or bright light. A flashlight has no effect in areas of Chakra darkness.
  Limit: These items may be bought inside any Gadget Shop.
  Cost: 6,000 Ryo per Slot, or 1,500 Ryo Each.
  
  Knife (Overview)
  Rank: "C" Rank
  Type: Secondary, 2 per Slot, Piercing/Slashing, Knife
  Effect: An instrument composed of a blade fixed into a handle, used for cutting or as a weapon.
  Special: ---
  Drawback: ---
  Description: A Light Weapon. These weapons do +4 Amour Points of Damage. The Range Increment of this weapon is 5 meters. A knife has a blade that is about less than 1 foot in length. The user gains a +10 bonus on Sleight of Hand Skill to conceal a knife on their body.
  Limit: These items may be bought inside any Weapon Shop.
  Cost: 1,000 Ryo per Slot, or 500 Ryo Each.
  
  Wireless Radio
  Rank: "S"
  Type: Secondary, 16 per Slot, Gadget, Surveillance, Transmitter
  Effect: A radio transmitting device that sends signals through electromagnetic waves.
  Special: ---
  Drawback: Limited Range in transmitting information.
  Description: Picture A Device that has a Velcro strap along the neck with a voice activator along the throat. An ear piece is connected from the vocal piece to the ear in a small cord. It's a radio that transmits signals by sending electromagnetic waves with frequencies below those of visible light. They can then be received by other radios in the form of sound or a wide array of signals in order to make sure important information is protected. When rolled and compact, 16 Wireless Radios are able to fit inside 1 slot. The range between two Wireless Radios is 1,000 meters (Communications for a single thread.)
  Limit: These items may be bought inside any Gadget Shop.
  Cost: 16,000 Ryo per Slot, or 1,000 Ryo Each
  
  Kit, Lockpick
  Rank: "S"
  Type: Secondary, 1 per Slot, Gadget, Mechanical, Kit
  Effect: A set of lockpicks and other devices used to get through mechanical locks.
  Special: ---
  Drawback: ---
  Description: A lockpick set includes picks and tension bars for opening locks operated by standard keys. A lockpick set allows a user to make Lockpick checks to open mechanical locks (deadbolts, keyed entry locks, and so forth) without penalty.
  Limit: These items may be bought inside any Gadget Shop.
  Cost: 10,000 Ryo
  

[Ghost - Koatah ♣]

"You really think so? When I lived in the desert I was told I was the weak one. Don't you want to train a strong boy or girl up?"

[/color] With a bit of a sigh she lent back in her chair, making sure to keep an upright posture still so not to slump or be rude. "I can't actually do much taijutsu or genjutsu, I just get told it is what I can do, Pattern, Phantasm, Glamour, Figment. I don't even know what each one does yet."

With the arrival of the AnBu, Koatah was presented with a butt bag full of supplies. An excited squeal would leave her lips as she thanked the masked man while looking through what was held within, once inspected she looked over towards the lady Kagé "How much do I need to pay for this, I don't have a lot of Ryo, but i can trade my kunai"

[Flower]

"Don't you want to train a strong boy or girl up?"

Shihana looked over the young girl and wondered why she was so shy, and had such little confidence in herself? "If somebody were already strong, then they wouldn't need my help," she said, after pondering the question, "besides, it's okay if you can't do much yet. With the right training, and sensei, you'll be able to do all sorts of things. Things that you wouldn't believe were possible." She thought about all of the wild things that she was able to do thanks to what she had learned about chakra and one's physical energy. And thanks to Shiki.

"And you don't owe me anything. This is a gift from the Sand Village. Just try to stay alive. That would be payment enough." When she was finished speaking, it was clear that Shihana was done with the conversation. She did look particularly busy. But she did walk back to her chair and sat down, waiting to see if Koatah had any questions. "If you need anything else, don't hesitate to ask. I'll see you soon, I'm sure. On your way out if you want to take any missions then please speak to my assistant, Geneva."

With that their meeting would be concluded, and Koatah would have taken her next step toward being a capable, Sand shinobi.

[Former Reformer]

[Enter]

Albert dressed up a little bit more than normal for his trip to the Kazekage Tower: his standard attire consisted of a black jacket, ninja sandals, blue jeans, and a robins' egg blue shirt. He had paid more attention to his grooming though, shaving his face close in on the sides. By all accounts he was looking quite handsome, though not feeling so confident.

He hadn't been to the tower in years, conspicuously avoiding it out of his shame for ignoring his shinobi duties. Most genin met with the Kage immediately after their graduations, but he doubted the same kage from his graduation time even held the office any longer. He finished his cigarette across the street from the tower, steeled his nerves and took a deep breath before entering the doors.

He marveled at the interior of the building briefly before going through all of the formalities at the reception desk. Speaking to the receptionist: "Hello Miss, how are you..? My name is Albert Thimble, a genin who hasn't been too involved in the occupation for several years. I was hoping to get some direction into beginning my career again.." It was hard to bring out the words, though he wasn't exactly nervous with the receptionist. It was just something he'd rather avoid talking about; if he wanted to feel any sense of pride, though, he would have to correct his shortcomings. Despite his internal misgivings he waited patiently for a response.

[Flower]

As he walked into the tower, Albert would see the large auditorium that made up the lobby -- and the reception desk at the center. The statues of the former Kazekage lined the walls and a giant tapestry, depicting the founding of Sunagakure, was displayed on the wall. A young girl with bright, orange hair, and a long-sleeved, pink shirt and jeans, glanced up at the ninja as he spoke. She chuckled a bit under her breath and said, "Huh, must be a busy day." She pointed to a set of doors behind them. "You can head in that way. The Kazekage's Office is just a short walk. You'll want to speak to her." Geneva, as her name-plate suggested on desk, didn't give any other information although seemed certain that this was the right place to go.

If Albert walked through the doors then, like Koatah, he'd walk into an enormous trophy room filled with various beasts and creatures that the previous kazekage, the White Wolf, had mounted on the walls and ceiling. At the end of the hall, and the collection of trophies, was an open door to the Kazekage's Office that was guarded by a member of the ANBU. As Albert would approach, he'd see that there was an older, white-haired woman in a black dress and somebody else in the room -- a young, white-haired girl -- and a strange swarm of butterflies that lighted on the surrounding furniture.

The ANBU put up his hand as if for Albert to wait, but then Shihana looked toward him. "No, it's fine," she said, "Send him in. We were almost finished. And besides -- Koatah and Albert -- this is a good opportunity to meet your comrades." She remembered the first time she had met her partner, Isamu, which had also been in this very room. How many memories did it hold...?

[Former Reformer]

Albert was pleased; Geneva didn't seem particularly displeased with his words, maybe this sort of thing happened more often than he had realized. Taking the directions and following them, he thought over the tapestries and trophies as he moved through the building. He had been foolish to avoid the Kazekage Tower for so long; the nods to his historical roots were very interesting, even empowering.

Unconciously standing a little straighter, he followed the stop command of the ANBU. Albert had a lot of respect for most people who were able to move up the chain of command, and wanted to display his best side. Seeing the two through the doorway he briefly speculated on their relationship, perhaps parent and child, same clan membership, sensei and student; he didn't want to intrude.

The words of the white-haired woman were much more inviting, though still confident and commanding, than he had expected on coming to the tower. Hearing the words of the village leader, he moved forward almost mechanically. Was this a big moment? His chance to finally have something to be proud about. His voice was a bit forced: "Ma'am, thank you for welcoming me. My name is Albert Thimble." He turned to Koatah, pleased to see such a young face: he got along quite well with children, though he hadn't made the acquaintance of many shinobi children. "Hello, Koatah. How do you do?" He extended his hand towards the young girl, smiling earnestly.