[4] Kazekage Tower

[Ghost - Koatah ♣]

The young genin looked up at the kagé, such an extravagent gift, as she went to utter a comment she felt that it would be best to keep her silence and give a polite nod of the head. "Thank you Lady Flower" As she was being dismissed, Koatah got to her feet only to turn and see the door open and a gentleman make his way into the chamber. She looked him up and down before calling her butterflies back to her arms and body, she felt insecure about taking up the whole room with her friends.

"I am okay thank you. Lady Kagé just gave me my ninja starting kit, I have a lot to learn, I only just graduated." She gave a shy smile and gently took the mans hand with a shake. "Nice to meet you Albert" When taking her hand back a couple of the butterflies would flutter and land on the mans arm for a few seconds, almost examining him, prior to fluttering back and landing on the little girl once more. "I will go look at some of the missions, then go and try some training out near the village grounds. I got told of a big rocky area thats great for taijutsu." Waiting to see if she would be dismissed or not, Koatah would take her time and upon the command make her way out of the room.

[Flower]

Shihana looked over the new-comer. He had nice clothes and was well-trimmed, an oddity in the Land of Wind's harsh environment. "It's nice to meet you, Albert," she said in acknowledgment and then watched as he met Koatah. The young girl turned to leave and mentioned training some taijutsu. "There are two training rooms at the Sunagakure Community Center," Shihana explained, "Perhaps you'll find training useful there as well."

Once Koatah had left, Shihana would motion Albert toward the chair and call in the ANBU once again. "Another starter tool set," she told him, and then he was gone again in the blink of an eye. Once Albert had sat down, Shihana would reference her paperwork. "Nin-tai specialist, huh? I see. Your personality assessment was very good." She glanced up at him. "I'm glad you've come around to helping out the Sand Village. We've been looking for skilled ninja who can train and help us with our future projects." She glanced at one of the bookshelves for a moment, lost in thought.

"There is a ninja that who could be very beneficial to you. His name is Isamu Shounin. His skills are very similar to your own and he has been with the Sand Village for a long time, and he is my own partner. If you have time you should seek him out and train under him, at least for a short time." She took out a sheet of paper and filled out a short form, passing it to him. "That should allow you to receive payment."

SPOILER: Click to show

Name: Special Mission! Train with Isamu
Rank: "C"
IIC Length: 2 Days
Difficulty: Easy
Objective: Train with Isamu Shounin and learn some new techniques, as well as something about being a ninja.
Description: Meet with the ninja, Isamu Shounin, from the Sand Village and train under them. Learn as many techniques from them as you can, but also learn what it means to be a Sand shinobi. Must learn at least 50 tp worth of techniques to complete this mission.
Reward: 37,500 ryo

Christoff

[Former Reformer]

Albert smiled broadly at Koatah's words, showing his straight white teeth. He did not expect such a positive, warm reception. Already he could feel pride welling up within him, something he hadn't experienced in a long time. He became suddenly aware of the butterflies; it struck him as a beautiful, if innocent, metaphor for the feelings coming up inside of him. They landed on the black cotton of his jacket, riveting his interest, and he was a bit shaken at how quickly they left. As the butterflies returned to young Koatah, he met her gaze directly. "Well, you should be very proud of where you are. I graduated many years ago and I think you may be ahead of me already. I hope our paths cross again, very soon."

"Nin-tai specialist, huh? I see. Your personality assessment was very good." Albert raised his right eyebrow almost imperceptibly, as if to say, 'I'm skeptical and surprised to hear you say it'. He thought a kage would display a little more wrath towards an idle subordinate. All the same he counted it as part of a lucky day, as if fate was telling him to rush forward even faster now.

Albert listened in near disbelief as the Kazekage began speaking of her own partner, and he watched with interest as she filled out the form. There was both excitement and a quiet pressure of dread making itself known in the pit of his stomach now. It was difficult to imagine such a change in his lifestyle, but he also felt uncharacteristically ready to take a risk. "That should allow you to receive payment." Now it seemed to be not just a kind suggestion, but the command of a leader. He took the form, looking it over hurriedly. Then he took a deep breath and responded: "I am truly humbled, kage, by your kindness and direction. If you can tell me where I would find Isamu Shounin, I will seek him out immediately." Inwardly he thought, 'she must be very perceptive: she knew exactly the kick I needed to move forward.' Then he thought of her name, Flower, and of the butterflies which had just been on his arm. Nostalgia washed over him, it was like a sign from the big, childish dreams which he had harbored many years ago.

[mission accepted] NICE

[Flower]

"Where to find Isamu?" Shihana seemed to ponder, inwardly, for a few seconds on what the right answer would be. She was impressed with the Genin. Although he had just arrived at the tower, he seemed eager to meet with a future master. It was a good sign in a budding student. Just at that moment, before Shihana could answer the question, the ANBU guard returned with a main pack in his hand. His face covered by a Bear Division ANBU mask. "Ah, thank you," Shihana said and stepped forward to take the pack, handing it to Albert.

"This is for you. A gift from the Sand Village that demonstrates our appreciation. It's just a small thing, but hopefully it will help." Shihana would hand the pack to Albert, and he'd notice that it felt heavy with items. If he looked inside, he would find a butt pack, a standard flashlight, two knives, two wireless radios, and a lockpicking kit. As he were looking through it, if he chose to do so, Shihana would go on about Albert's mission.

"I think I will leaving finding him up to you. As part of the mission," she decided, "But know this -- Isamu, out of all the Sunagakure ninja, truly resides deep within the sand." Shihana said this with a smile, a rare gesture of self-appreciation at the riddle she had made.

[OOC: No but, seriously, just send a PM to Christoff and I'm sure you two can set something up. It might be good to meet at the Sunagakure Community Center since you can get bonus tp there from the training rooms? But you can't use that with x2. You could go ahead and be in a x2 thread and complete the mission? Then you'd get double ryo as well. Just make sure it is done and accepted before the x2 event is over if you want the extra money.]

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
  

[Former Reformer]

Albert watched with good-natured interest at the interactions between the kage and the ANBU member and graciously accepted the gift of the ninja starter-kit. He searched through it absentmindedly, his eyes continuously shifting between the pack and Flower's eyes. 'Useful, and more generous than I deserve', he confided to himself. He unconsciously ran his left hand through his hair.

Then he heard her speak of where to find Isamu: surely there was an innuendo or a hint within those words. He smiled and responded: "I think I understand, and thank you for this opportunity. If he is of the sand, I will find him in the sand." He wasn't too sure of his next course of action, but he knew this was definitely the time for action. There wouldn't be so many opportunities like this in life, to make connections and forge his own path, so he needed to act confidently. "Thank you for your time, Kazekage. When I see you next, I am sure I will be of greater use to you." He smiled sincerely, bowed low, and assuming he was free to leave he would do so. Albert felt like a whole new life was opening up before him. 'Can one day really change everything?' He had his logical doubts, but his gut instincts told him it was possible.

[Items accepted, adding to bio]

[Attempted exit]

[Ghost - Koatah ♣]

Having left the lady Kazekagé's office with her new supplies and leaving behind another new shinobi. Once she had passed through the realms of scary monster heads and out into the primary chamber once more, Koatah would look towards where the missions are located. While looking through the missions, Koatah decided to take a hold of two of the most simple missions. Train a new technique and learn some skills. Two missions she felt she might be able to do.

Making an approach to the desk, Koatah would wait her turn before handing over her request slips. "Can I do these two missions, I will try find someone to train with outside." Upon confirmation of one or both of her missions she would give a polite bow of thanks and take herself out the area.

//exit on approval?

[Flower]

[OOC: Short post just to get you approved since I've got to go into work.]

As Koatah left the office and spoke to the assistant who had welcomed her, Geneva, she'd request to take two missions from her. Geneva would glance at the request and then stamp it with approval and hand them back to the young girl. "You're good to go. Next time we meet, it looks like you might be a bit stronger." She gave Koatah a not entirely unfriendly smile before she left the tower to go and complete her missions.

SPOILER: Click to show

Name: Learn a New Skill
Rank: "D"
IIC Length: n/a
Difficulty: Easy
Objective: Master a skill.
Description: The Kazekage wants genin and other shinobi to train their skills so that they can be well-rounded in the field. The village has decided to put in a mission at the tower for ninja that will require them to train and master a new skill, to 125 skill points, and then report back to the tower to demonstrate their progress. This mission is repeatable up to three times.
Reward: 15,000 ryo

Name: Growing Up Together
Rank: "D"
IIC Length: 2 days
Difficulty: Easy
Objective: Train with another ninja so that both of you become stronger and learn a new technique.
Description: The village has requested a special mission to increase the strength and teamwork of Sand shinobi. At least two shinobi (or more) must train together and master a new technique per person. In other words, if a team of three takes this mission then all three of them must learn a new technique. The technique that each person learns must be at least C-ranked. When completed report your progress to the Kazekage Tower. This mission is repeatable up to three times.
Reward: 17,000 ryo

[💥Havoc💥]

[Enter]

"Hm..." remarked a green haired girl as she gazed lazily at the score on her progress report. The final one she'd ever have to look at from this place.

She didn't like this paper, nor the score. It was ugly to her. In reality the score was remarkably fine; nothing bad at all. At least in regards to the score itself and what it means. However the girl held the paper very casually with one hand from the bottom. Her slender clean fingers were spread out enough to keep the paper from curving and flopping about as she looked it over for the fifth? no...sixth time. Now that she thinks about it. Her fingers are too clean. She hasn't made anything all day then. That is irritating.

This paper...wasn't warm anymore. It has been sometime since the academy teacher has given it to her, and all the students have left the room which means class was over. The teacher she couldn't remember the name of had to ask her to leave, because she was sitting in the chair for too long even though class got dismissed many minutes ago. So now its been an hour and a half, and she now stands outside the doors of the Kazekage's Tower officially fresh out of graduation. However...the girl was still staring at this lifeless paper. The only color on this tainted canvas was the red colored set of numbers in the top right corner.

The green haired girl scored a ninety-nine; which is a near perfect score. Top of the class performance, and places her as the one leading amongst all of the other top students who scored really high. However she was still kept from perfection by one. She simply spelled her name wrong. No. She actually just didn't put the one she was given at birth. The one she is now required to use in public and on documentations. "Kanna".

That is the first part of her name. Her birthname feels weird to her. Its not as intriguing or interesting to her as the one she gives herself. Unfortunately that is the name she isn't allowed to use in this odd place. Because of this Kanna now kind of has to live another double life. With disinterest she tied the Sunagakure headband around her neck before entering the tower's front doors. Afterward she stuffed the progress report in her red jacket's left pocket. Now, Kanna has to prepare for her new life her in this ninja village she never believed to exist years ago.

A life that marks her as Kanna Sakuchi the new kunoichi from Sand. And not...

"Havoc".

Havoc the Demolisher...

[Flower]

As Kanna walked into the Kazekage Tower, she'd notice the large, pristine lobby and the statues of the previous Kazekage lining up the walls on either side. A tapestry hung on the back wall depicts the founding of Sunagakure, as well as artifacts from those ancient days behind glass displays in case of any of the visitors wish to admire them. An orange-haired girl wearing a tactical outfit sits at a circular desk in the middle of the room, waiting for Kanna as she walks through the steel doors.

The woman is pretty and has sharp facial features, but appears to have a stern look on her face as if she has been busy today. If Kanna approached the desk, then the woman -- named Geneva based on the placard in front of her -- would swivel toward her in the chair and look her over. "Another new face? Sure has been busy today." Kanna could see that there were stacks of papers beside Geneva, probably mission reports and summaries as well as other village documents. There were a few ANBU guard stationed in the room. One lingered close to the front desk although didn't seem to pay any attention to the newly promoted Genin.

"So you're here to meet with the Kazekage as well? Head on back through those doors and you'll find her office straight ahead." Geneva pointed to a couple of doors in the back of the lobby that led into a massive auditorium. Inside the auditorium was several stuffed and mounted carcasses of monstrous creatures that had been slain by the former Kazekage known to those, except his closest peers, as the White Wolf. His achievements were clear based on the creatures that had fallen before him, now captivated in this room. Further back through this room was the open door of the Kazekage's Office -- an ANBU from the Bear Division stationed at the entrance to the door.

As Kanna walked closer, she'd be able to pick out the face of the Kazekage. She was a beautiful, if not a bit gothic, woman with bone-white hair and a black dress with no sleeves. Bandages did seem to be wrapped around her left forearm, however, and a beige cloak was thrown over shoulders and fell over torso. The kanji for "fourth" was stitched in red on the back. A black strand of hair fell down the left side of her face, and with the rest of her hair ran down to her waist. But she was sitting behind an old, mahogany desk and so it hung even closer to the ground. At the bottom of her dress was a thin layer of light purple frills, before leading down to her legs and black high-top boots with a zipper along the inside of each. Her lilac eyes blinked to keep from getting dry as she looked over some paperwork.

[💥Havoc💥]

As she entered the building her attention was thoroughly grabbed by the décor within the lobby. Her multicolored eyes became curious as they immediately fell upon the design work of the large sculptures that filled the room. A momentary state of awe took over her facial features as she observed each and ever statue. She wouldn't know anything about these people what so ever, but by look alone she could assume that they were important figure heads of some sort.

Eventually she'd come to set her gaze upon the tapestry. Quickly acknowledging the piece for what it stood for, although personally she had no such desires to care about it beyond being a piece of art dedicated to the village. Eventually everything just got older and older, and as much as Kanna would like to stay and bask in the history. It simply...doesn't connect like it would a Genin that was actually born her and destine for this shinobi lifestyle. After that Kanna fell back into her state of feeling like everything is monotonous at best. Even the lady at the desk. What was her name? Geneva huh? Fair enough...

Kanna would stand at her full height of 5ft, 5in at the desk. Her red and green eyes staring in a full deadpan at Geneva as she spoke her words. By the looks of it she was expecting or maybe more so hoping to not have more distractions. Looks like Kanna will be doing her a favor by doing this quickly. The obviously uninterested teen kept her mouth shut the whole time since Geneva seemed to have already given her directions. In that case, Kanna would make a simple gesture with her bare right hand in means to say she understood. Then stuffed her hand back into her red jacket's pocket, and went on her way.

From here the young kunoichi kept her mind going as she wanted to think about other things, like projects or possible crafts to be made. She was thankful to be out the house, because she didn't want to be bothered at home. However if she gets a bunch of boring busy work perhaps today is simply not meant to be enjoyed. This auditoruim of concured creatures didn't mean anything or impress Kanna in any way.

Now she is sure it took a lot of hard work and all, but she isn't interest in such things. Credit will be where it is due to whoever accomplished such things. Although in all honesty she hoped it wasn't the current Kazekage she was meeting. She isn't fond of the strong, silent, traditional types what so ever. They never look at things beyond white background and black outlines when it comes to the world around them. Its annoying...

Only a number of seconds went by before Kanna reached the manned open door leading to the Kazekage. From this distance she could see the person with enough detail to make out an opinion already. Kinda cool, but possibly simp? Maybe a hard-ass given the appearance if she is the no nonsense type in disguise. Its a crude opinion at best, but Kanna in general had enough intrigue to give this person a chance not to bore her. Looks like she'll have to interact a bit to come to a full conclusion for this lady...

The teen kunoichi's steps were light but graceless. Her legs carried her around whereever they needed to be, and soon enough stopped right in front of the desk albiet with a foot of distance or two. Kanna wouldn't speak right away. Depending on what happened the room would hear a peep from her until nearly a whole half of a minute before she'd actually speak. And even then it was a straightforward, and generally flat tone. Not disrespectful, but just...there.

"So uh...I was told to speak to you after that whole graduation thing? Oh and to um. Give you this or whatever." she'd say not introducing herself at all, and cutting right into whatever she is going to be here for. Her left hand casually rising out of her jacket's pocket to take out the report paper from the academy instructor, it wasn't crinkled when Kanna placed it on the desk and slowly slide it closer to the kage's side of the desk. Simply watching her for the time being. Blinking only occasionally despite not being used to the environment yet.

[Flower]

As the kunoichi approached the desk, she'd find that the ANBU and Kazekage both looked up at her. Shihana would have normally said something, but watching the girl stand in front of the desk in silence made her curious so she waited to see what she'd say, but realized after a few seconds that it was some sort of silent protest. Valerys immediately chuckled from somewhere deep inside as the newcomer finally spoke, trying to feign some sort of disinterest. Or perhaps it was real. Either way, Valerys found it quite amusing, so much so that Shihana could almost feel the Commander in the back of her mind like a slight headache. "So uh...I was told to speak to you after that whole graduation thing? Oh and to um. Give you this or whatever." Shihana took the slip of paper, still not saying anything, and glanced over the report briefly before setting at the top of a stack of growing files.

"Kanna Sankuchi. Yeah I know about you." Despite herself, Shihana was smiling. Since they'd never met Kanna didn't know it, but this was a particularly unusual thing for her to do. "Come in and take a seat. My name is Shihana, but some people call me the Death Flower." There were a couple of chairs, made out of some dark oak, that were close to the desk. Kanna would also be able to take in the full view of the office now, which seemed to be cluttered with all sorts of trinkets and do-dads. Jars, both filled and empty, were sitting on the shelves and desktops, and there were several bookshelves with all sorts of records and leather-bound tomes. A glass terrarium on a nightstand in the back of the office brought a little bit of life to the dimly-lit area, from a lamp that hung in one of the corners. A red candle also burned on the Kazekage's desk, seemingly newly lit based on its size.

"Officer," she said to the ANBU outside the door, who blinked into the room in an instant. "Bring me another one of the starter tool sets from the armoury, and wait outside the door when you return. Make sure that we aren't disturbed." The ANBU didn't say anything but nodded in silent agreement, closing the door behind him on his way out of the office.

Now they were alone. The room was small, about 6 x 6 meters, and felt a bit claustrophobic with the door closed. "So you graduated from the academy? When I first saw your record, and heard about your situation, I was a bit surprised. Criminal charges in the Land of Earth. Vandalism. Damage to public property. Possibly murder." Shihana let the word hang in the air for a second before going on. "I was a bit surprised, because, I thought you would be capable of much more." Shihana shrugged, her white hair bobbing on the sides of her shoulders. Her right hand reached out and grabbed a strand, twirling it on her fingertip. This was a habit characteristic of another personality, Selyse, but Shihana found herself slipping by the second.

"A little bit of terrorism? No. You're a Genin of the Sand Village now. And we're going to want you to kick it up a notch." Her finger spun round and round, the white hair twisting around her black nail polish, as those violet eyes looked at her with an odd sort of fire. "How do you feel about that?"

[💥Havoc💥]

Things started off silently between the two of them, with the ANBU operatives all being the third wheels. Kanna stared at the Kazekage, and the Kazekage stared back. No words, just staring. For any normal person some teenage outright starring at them without any context what so ever, and creating an awkward silence would be annoying or creepy. However this woman sitting behind the desk. She...she seemed to be unfazed. Comfortable even. That is not normal. Kanna...kinda likes that that.

Eventually the silence did break, and when it did their dialog would begin. Kanna internally glowered at the sound of her full name entering her ears. She couldn't stand it. Part of her feels like the Kazekage knows this too, but she would get over it today this time only for the sake of making this easier on herself. Next time she may not be so reasonable.

Besides there were other pressing matters to attend to. This woman was so casual about the things she said towards her, it began to become unsettling. Why did she announce her nickname as if this was some sort of club meeting? The "Death Flower". Now that's a name if she has ever heard one... Kanna always had the impression these kage types weren't so laid back like this. So...unnaturally calm, and mysterious. This person definitely wasn't normal.

Well...Kanna was pretty much invested in the moment now, so there wouldn't be any turning back. So she'd oblige the request. Motioning herself into an available chair, with her hands still in her pockets. Her gaze remained locked on the Kazekage for a long time, before finally diverting to take in the room she was in. She didn't notice how...smallish it is, until just now. Now that she thinks about it. She didn't notice any of this stuff until just now. That is a little embarrassing honestly.

When the officer appeared suddenly the sound of their presence had Kanna nonchalantly turning her attention to glance at them for a moment. Her eyes looking over their uniform before staring all over their mask. It was decent artwork. Certainly plays it role fittingly. Kanna wouldn't mind wearing it, but preferably with a different animal mask. Bears weren't that interesting to her.

One the man left, the meeting's atmosphere shifted drastically. The young kunoichi in training once again had her eyes on the Kazekage, but something felt different about her now. A whole different aura was present...she can sort of sense it. The woman carried on, now getting into details about her past though not heavily. More so her perception of it. Something about the way she said: "I thought you would be capable of much more." hit a sore spot with Kanna. Which would be the first time her normally unresponsive facial expressions actually reacted. A simple left eyebrow twitch as soon as she heard that one sentence.

It felt like a small jab at her character. As if she underperformed on a commissioned project. Like...she was being belittled. Kanna felt attacked to be it lightly. Perhaps it wasn't something to be so concerned about, but as of now Kanna was trying not to take whatever bait this might be...but its out so very hard not to do that all of a sudden. Her fingers in her pockets were gnawing on the insides of her palms trying to cope with her building need to explain something...but what? Damn this woman! She was getting in her head already. It completely went over her head as to what this woman was actually said.

Now Kanna was interested...to prove herself for something...something to prove her worth. This wasn't a joke, and neither of what she did beforehand was either. She has never cared about anything other than art, and being free by her standards yet now? Now the rules have changes, and even if this is some trap. Kanna couldn't sit in that damn chair and play hard to crack anymore. Her voice tone had a hint of shame in it as if she felt slammer for playing along all of a sudden. The teenager seemed to be fighting insecurities at the moment to be able to speak.

"What do I have to do?"

[Flower]

"What do I have to do?" Kanna asked. Shihana had expected more from her, but it seemed that she was a little tight-lipped. It wasn't a bad quality to possess, Shihana decided, especially if she ever became a member of the ANBU. Shihana clasped her fingers together in front of her face, elbows resting on the top of the desk, and looked forward at the new face of the Genin. "You don't have to do anything," Shihana explained, "but the Sand Village would like to see you grow stronger. I can't make proper use of your skills until you do."

Her lilac eyes focused on the flame, dancing on the wick of the red candle as the wax beaded and fell down the sides and pooled in the stainless steel holder. "Some of the teachers at the academy mentioned your... artistic abilities. I think you have quite the potential. Did you know that Third Kazekage was named Kira Sankuchi? Perhaps part of her lives on inside of you," Shihana said with her eyes still focused on the flickering candlelight, "or maybe not. It's just a thought I had." She dismissed it with the flick of her wrist and made the smoke, from the candle flame, waver in the air as it swirled in small, semi-loops.

"But, in any case, I want to train you. I don't know, maybe you remind me a bit of myself too. I abandoned my parents on the coast of the Land of Wind when I was younger than you are, joined up with several criminal organizations, and eventually found a hideout in Sunagakure. The White Wolf took me in... I never expected the Kazekage to do that..." Shihana looked away and stared off, as if lost in thought, before turning back to Kanna. She leaned back in her chair and folded her arms across her chest, the kage cloak falling whimsically around her body. Now that she wasn't thinking about Shiki, the Kazekage's stare seemed more intense.

"I'd like to see what you can do. And then decide whether or not if I want to make you my student."

[Christoff]

(Enter)
Isamu walked past security unmolested. They knew him well at this point and he moved quickly across the lobby making for the reception desk. "Isamu Shounin. My mission is complete and I am here to make my report to the Kazekage." His tiredness was evident in his voice. He knew he would have to rest once he made his report. He would rest easier with the knowledge that he had done his duty.

[Flower]

Isamu:

Geneva looked up from her paperwork at the familiar Genin. The lobby of the Kazekage's Tower was decorated the same, and the orange-haired assistant was still working the counter. "And what mission would that be? Unfortunately the Kazekage has been asked not to be disturbed until she's done with her meeting," Geneva said. "But if you'd like you could wait for her," she pointed at the various benches in the lobby, "or write down the report and I'll make sure she gets it when she's done, and that you are paid." She handed him a sheet of paper and a pen. It should have been safe to give her the information, since she was an S-ranked official with the tower, unless he just wanted to speak to Shihana directly.

[💥Havoc💥]

(Post 1 of 2)

In truth Kanna wasn't exactly falling in line with the idea of increasing her reach just because the village wishes of it. She has no such personal incentives in caring about this sand covered precinct. Not enough of one that made her personally wish to give it any second thoughts. The kazekage wants to make use of her skills? Why? Where does the line get drawn, and where is it going? What is the bigger picture eh?

"Make use, huh. That is obvious considering I'm still alive." she'd state in an unwaveringly blunt manner.

To the Kanna this is simply another stage in her life; where the rules are being shifted. Now once again she has to figure out how, and why she may want to break some of those rules. Albeit now it has to be even more carefully than the last time. At least to protect her meaning, time, and life as an artist. So yes...she doesn't have to do anything, but that sure wouldn't get her anywhere to dismiss absolutely everything without weighing the options first. Honestly her curiosity can be a pain that way, but its how she survives doing what she does.

Besides deep down she does have another feeling eating away at her morals about this whole ninja thing. Perhaps one, that is utilizing her determination in a way that simply contradicts all the evil-doing she was willing to handle consequences for purely for the enjoyment and motive of doing things her way. Doing them to prove a point. The proof is in her actions thus far.

Passing that test...dealing with the academy...all of these things still feel foreign to her. And yet the sudden challenge...the sudden drive...those all felt right at home for Kanna. More than she'd like to admit. She couldn't sit on that sort of idea being in her head, without internally disapproving of giving this whole ninja thing anytime of day.

And yet here she is...listening to the Kazekage speak willingly. Her attention despite shifting once beforehand, now is once again directly locked on with her presence. Paying attention to everything she did and said. Recording all the details as much as she could, because something about this lady felt...connectable and even worse...actually likeable. Kanna initially felt indifferent about learning that the Third Kazekage  is a Sankuchi. She has never been given a chance to connect with her kin. To embrace their art with her own like it should have been.

The academy teachers talking about her abilities was also to be expected given her record beforehand, but the fact that a whole village once had one of her own leading them? It seemed out of place to consider. She would wonder what that Sancuchi thought about all of this. What did they do with their art? And why? It would only be a minor idea though. She didn't want to pry on it while this current Kazekage still needed evaluating...She'd need to decide if its worth trusting her authority. Which came into war with her personal values when she spoke her next set of words.

[💥Havoc💥]

(Post 2 of 2)

Honestly last thing Kanna expected to hear was such ideas in regards to being potentially trained. Her face once again slipped up in its neutral expression as she couldn't understand why this was coming about. Then as if on que here came in the personal details. Just by listening Kanna had tons of questions. Was she truly someone who did all of those things? Or...is this some sort of attempt to persuade her easier with some made up backstory?

Kanna couldn't figure it out, so she didn't know what to trust. Her instincts...or her growing taboo interests in learning more. But what could this kage possibly do? It didn't add up why she is even considering this. By the time she thought of all this in her head; it came time for her to speak them out, and well...Kanna didn't exactly hesitate to reply. In fact she'd do so with critical criticism.

"You're a weird case lady. I'm only considering this whole thing because I'm trying to understand it all. This whole shinobi life and what it means. Like come on; you seem oddly curious about something that normally gets people like me killed and forgotten about. Lets be honest here.

You and I both know that if the kage all the way back home cared a little more, I'd probably be dead. Sure, I was good and I knew how to slip through the cracks, but I know you ninja are no fools. Hell from how I've seen it you all bicker with each other like anyone else does, and do all of these crazy things squandering your greater possibilities.

Constantly only training, and growing just to use your jutsu in ways to kill rather than ways to innovate. I had to kill for survival. I took on the life of crime despite knowing the odds, because someone has to.

I couldn't trust the ninja to help me, and my own people in Stone didn't want to trust me without giving me a chance to even being quote on quote "normal". Instead of being happy the average ninja has to come to terms with being a possible tool of war. The Sankuchi didn't start out with that like some of these other clans.

I don't have a reason to care about this place or its authority other than the bounty on my head, and the possibility of death if I don't comply or cause problems right? My "master" back home is just some worthless creep looking for a shot a glory in this damn place trying to play move maker.

He's clueless and not worth keeping around considering what he was willing to do smuggling me in here, so I don't see why he isn't under investigation? Personally the only reason I haven't killed him yet was because I needed a place to stay will I find my next move. I can survive on my own. You have seen that much Ms. Kazekage.

So...I guess the point is if you want to train me so be it. You're the one in charge right? So fine I'll play along since you're offering. But just know that I'm watching you too Shihana. I'll respect your position only because I kind of like you, but everyone else isn't worth the time unless you say so." she's say hoping her points were very clear despite the earlier tangent. After that Kanna was sitting in her chair crossing her arms and looking off to the side almost as if trying not to admit to herself that she agreed to be helped just now. It was a tough situation with her morals, but at the moment Kanna didn't know where to look. So maybe...just maybe...this kage is worth looking into for guidance.

[Flower]

When Kanna finished her soliloquy, a mad smile seemed to creep across Shihana's face. There were lots of voices in her head, it was difficult to hear just one. Like a chorus each of them spoke, but every once and a while Shihana could pick out a phrase:

She sure likes to hear herself talk... Ken thought with a hint of agitation.

I don't know. She's got spunk. I like her! Selyse determined.

She has such pretty eyes~ Victoria chimed.

She couldn't help but admit that she was losing a degree of control. And Shihana hated that. Valerys was oddly quiet -- which didn't help the situation. After a few seconds Kanna would note three, additional eyes forming out of the folds in the Kazekage's forehead. Each of them were closed. Suddenly the Kazekage stood up and walked over to Kanna, standing in front of her chair so that they were looking face-to-face with no desk between them. She leaned against the counter and crossed her arms, looking at Kanna with two open and three closed eyes. "That's right. You're a tool of war. You've had to kill to survive. So what?" Shihana asked, "If the threat of death, and kind of liking me, is the reason you respect me, then I'll gladly take it.

"Life is cruel. Peace isn't free. Humans die.

"And you are a Sand shinobi."

Shihana reached over the desk for a pen and piece of paper and scribbled away, smearing her normally neat handwriting. She handed the paper to Kanna. It had the details of a mission written out on the front. "That should allow you to receive payment when we're done. Meet me at the dojo in a couple of weeks, when I've had time to get out of the village."

SPOILER: Click to show

Name: Special Mission! Train with the Kazekage
Rank: "C"
IIC Length: 3 days
Difficulty: Easy
Objective: Train with the Kazekage and demonstrate that you could be a capable student. 
Description: Meet with the Kazekage at the Senpu Dojo in the Land of Wind and train up to 50 tp worth of techniques under her leadership. Demonstrate that you are capable of becoming a student with your efforts, and learn something about what it means to be a Sand shinobi. Students that are determined to have potential will be given more advanced missions to develop their skills. 
Reward: 37,500 ryo

Shihana leaned forward as she handed Kanna the mission slip, close to her ear. She could almost smell her, and now (of all times) Valerys seemed to pay attention. "And watch me all you like," Shihana whispered, the smile obvious in her voice, "but be careful. Some things are not meant to be seen." She'd pull away, her white hair falling around her shoulders as she leaned back, and sit on the corner of the desk. Kanna would notice that one of the eyes on her forehead, the one on Shihana's left, had slightly opened and was peering at the world through a half-slit in its eyelid. The hot pink pupil shifted from side to side.

[Christoff]

Isamu hesitated. His fatigue brought his indecision to the surface. He wanted desperately to share the situation with Shihana, but he had to remember his place. He was a Genin and she was the Kazekage. He had no place demanding an audience and every minute waiting was another minute the criminals in District 12 continued to flout the law and abuse Tobias. Isamu took the paper and pen and began to write.

Mission Report
Shinobi: Isamu Shounin
Rank: Genin
Location: District Twelve

I began my reconnoitering of District Twelve with night time surveillance. The District is surrounded by a fence. There is a guardhouse that is manned. I was unable to ascertain the size of the garrison or the nature of their weaponry. In the morning I abandoned my surveillance to survey the local inhabitants.

I came across a cluster of houses. They were abandoned save for a young boy and a strange wolf. The boy is named Tobias. He told me that his parents had been kidnapped by men and women from District Twelve. During the course of our conversation it became clear he had been experimented on by his parent's captors. He displays large fangs, stalked eyes, and a camouflage ability.

The abductors also gave the boy a strange wolf named Jigoku. It is unlike any I have ever seen. When I pressed the boy about his captors he became agitated and the creature's eyes turned from yellow to red. The wolf adopted a threatening posture. I defused the situation by sitting and Tobias informed me that the abductors had given him the wolf to protect him. The boy is very attached but I fear the animal may have a sinister nature.

I need to rest, but then I intend to return straight away to intercede. Until I depart I will be at my residence in the Merchant's Quarter.

Isamu handed his report to Geneva and awaited her feedback and payment

Mission Complete:

SPOILER: Click to show

Name: Rumors & Gossip
Rank: "D"
IIC Length: 3 Days
Difficulty: Easy
Objective: Talk to civilians about what they've seen around District 12.
Description: Talk to civilians about what they've seen around District 12 and report it to the Kazekage. Make sure to investigate as many people as possible and ask the right questions to get the best information. Expect to give a full summary when the mission is over.
Reward: 18,000 ryo

[💥Havoc💥]

That smile... What was with it? It made the young kunoichi adjust herself in her seat a bit. This room is a little smaller than she initially took it for. Her multicolored orbs of seeing homed in on the three slits that appeared on the forehead of the Kazekage. This Shihana character sure had her surprises.

Something Kanna didn't know how to comprehend. Perhaps that is her younger age taking effect. Nevertheless when the Kazekage stood up; Kanna flinched as mentally she was disconnected at the time, and wasn't prepared to reach to sudden movements like that. The level of focus she had in the academy wasn't being applied here.

Kanna watched every movement she could keep track of when Shihana walked around her desk, and closed the gap between the two of them. In that short shift off their interaction Shihana defused every bit of momentum Kanna had in her...argument? And turned it into the simple state of matter that it was. What Kanna knew it was going to be all along, but her teenage angst couldn't resist vocalizing the frustration in rebellion.

Either way Kanna was shut down immediately, and all she could do from there is sit and listen. It sucked to be wrapped around someone's finger like this...

She bit the inside of her cheek trying hard not to do anything crazy. That and Shihana was slightly scaring her a bit, which not many people do. She took the slip with both hands after being given the details verbally. Her nails were painted red to match her jacket.

A minor detail compared to the next thing, as Shihana went out of her way to whisper in the girl's ear. The sound slipped a demented memory in her mind forever. The air itself creating the most unsettling chill she's ever had the displeasure of feeling.

Her exposed legs rubbed together out of habit as she could feel the lingering sensation of that whisper haunt her right eardrum. She simply sat there staring at Shihana for a few seconds before putting the mission slip away. Her mind was racing, but her instincts were slowly coming back to her. A few seconds later and she'd be able to respond.

"I'll take that under some consideration Shihana." That one exploring pupil taking a look around the place didn't faze her like it probably would anyone else. Kanna despite the reaction she had a few seconds ago, remained calm again. And so from her she'd get up out of the chair, and stand up completely. "See you in a couple weeks." she'd state flatly, pausing to catch anything she might say afterwards, before attempting to make her leave through the office doors.