[4] Kazekage Tower

[Flower]

"I wish that I'd learned even more from him when he was here," Shihana said with a far-off look in her eye, but seemed to return to herself and note what Amira had said with a nod. "Deep magic, huh? Yes, I suppose that would be a unique type of sickness. If there is anything that I can do to help you, please don't hesitate to ask." There was, of course, the Sunagakure Hospital and their army of medics, but Shihana trusted that these would not help Amira if it had been this long already.

"As for District 12," she tapped her fingernails on the desk, decorated with black nail polish, "I sent out a request for ninja to investigate the district over a month ago. So far, little has turned up -- just one report from my partner, Isamu. He claims that whoever runs the district has been experimenting on the nearby locals, a heinous crime but their evasion of the Sand Village is what has me truly unsettled." She got that look in her eye again. "If you want to investigate, then you are more than welcome. I'm sure that you are capable enough, but be safe. The risk level is currently unknown. Perhaps Isamu would help you if you sought him out."

Shihana shared a brief, internal moment of elation, with Valerys, at the prospect of having District 12 investigated. She knew that there was something special about the place, but had not been able to trust anybody but Isamu so far to figure out what it could be. Perhaps, now, the Sand Village could once again demonstrate their power over the rebellious district in the Land of Wind. Shihana shuffled through paperwork and found what she was looking for, handing it to Amira. "It's a copy of Isamu's mission report... Maybe it'll be of some use to you."

SPOILER: Click to show

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.

"Normally I give new arrivals a Starter Set filled with basic gear, but somehow I feel that it wouldn't benefit you much. If there is anything that I can get for you that would enhance your abilities, then please let me know." Shihana leaned forward on the desk. "We are entering a new era. I'm glad to know that we have your support, and that you have ours. Perhaps we can walk this new path together?"

[Tetsu]

She appreciated the Kazekage’s gesture of assistance. She was far beyond the help of anything less than the supernatural. She would find herself stable at times, and less so in others. That was not her purpose here. She had come from the hospital to no avail recently, but alas she tried to remain positive in the face of her dire prognosis.

It was about this point that Shihana would begin to explain a little bit about the district and the mission that the village was offering. She mentioned Isamu’s involvement and Amira was internally delighted to hear of Isamu’s progress. He had been her good friend for many years. She trusted the man, even f his body was shifty in nature. “Maybe I’ll get in touch with Isamu and see what’s going on here.” She expresses in response, taking the mission report and reading it thoroughly. Her eyes glanced the sheet, stopping on the section where it mentioned the boy with the mutations. Her interest was immediately peaked. She had led multiple operations against terrorist cells that had been attempting to modify human DNA just as well as this “district” seemed to be doing now. She hoped that the two events were unrelated, though she had a sinking feeling that there may be some residual connection there.

She tucked the Manila folder of reports under her arm as the Kazekage mentioned gear. “You’re correct, in that I’m already equipped with the necessary gear.” She expresses standing up from her seated position, maybe a little quicker than she should have. She agreed that the Sand needed to change, and was willing to help spear head that development, even if she was not in a leadership role. “You had the confidence of Shiki Senri, and thus you have mine Lady Shihana. I will go contact Isamu and request that he follow up with me on this investigation, with your approval of course.” She expressed opening the Manila folder and placing the mission request form she had taken down in the lobby before the Kazekage so that it could be stamped for approval. If the approval was received, Amira would go prepare for the operation.

“Lady Shihana, it was a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Hopefully we can meet more often.” She would express after the missions approval to go speak with Isamu, probably at his residence, and get the investigation under way.

<if approved>

Amira would gracefully retrieve the folder, making a brisk but polite exit as she would maneuver through the trophy room and back out into the windy exterior. She turned towards the merchant’s district, hoping the pile of sand was home.

[possible exit]

Requesting this mission

SPOILER: Click to show

Name: Breaking & Entering
Rank: "C"
IIC Length: 3 Days
Difficulty: Moderate
Objective: Break into District 12.
Description: The Kazekage has given out a mission to all powerful, Sand shinobi (and other special guests) to find a way to enter the mysterious, new uprising in the Land of Wind: District 12. Strange rumors stir about what lies beyond the gate and the Kazekage wants to know for sure. The first step is to break in.
Reward: 37,000 ryo

[Flower]

"I hope so too, and I'm glad that I have your confidence," Shihana said. It felt good that an old friend of Shiki's was willing to accept her position. It almost felt as if Shiki, himself, had accepted her in some small way. "Of course you have my approval to take on this mission, or any District 12 mission that you meet the criteria to take for that matter." She stamped it quickly and handed it back so that Amira could get on with her business.

"Good luck -- I'll be in touch if there are any other missions that require your particular skills." She smiled, perhaps for the first time in their entire meeting. Although her words were not unfriendly, Shihana often wore a stoic expression. But not now. It seemed like she might have even been happy as their meeting concluded and Amira got ready to walk out the door.

Shihana watched her leave and then sat down to her desk, worn out from the activities of the day. She let out a sigh and stood up. Going outside to get some fresh air. 

MISSION APPROVED!


Edit:

After going outside for a little while to catch her breath, Shihana decided that she needed to leave the tower for a little while to complete some business that she'd been putting off. She went to the front desk and let Geneva know that she was in charge for the moment. Unless Kikkai or Akumu came to fill in her place at the tower. Then she went off, past the wide doors, and into the Sand Village.

[exit.]

[Christoff]

(Enter)

Isamu made his way up to the reception desk in the now familiar tower. After waiting his turn in line he arrived at the desk, "Good morning. Isamu Shounin, Genin. I am returning from the Chunin Exams and I have news from the desert tribes to the Northwest. I am hoping to make an appointment to see the Kazekage," Isamu paused unsure if he had committed a faux pas before recovering quickly, "If either of them are available." Internally he winced, grateful that he had embarrassed himself only to the receptionist and not to the twins. This was uncharted territory as far as formalities and honorifics went.

[Starnaess]

We sat one next to the other on our chairs behind a large wooden desk in our office. The sun at its zenith illuminated the on one side of the room letting a nice light in - illuminating the papers we were filling and signing. A knock interrupted our work and as we allowed the person in , an anbu ninja entered and spoke " Sorry to disturb you , you have a visitor" we simply replied in unison , our voices echoing in o ne anothet" let them in" 

[Christoff]

Isamu heard the two voices speak in unison and entered into the office at the ANBU's indication. As he entered the now familiar offices of the Kazekage, Isamu saw that two chairs had been placed behind the desk. They truly shared the office. Isamu stood at attention before the Kazekage's and made his report, "Isamu Shounin, reporting back from the Chunin Exams." He identified himself so as not to be presumptive that the twins knew who he was. He had found it was rarely a bad idea to reintroduce himself to superiors. It helped your name stick in their heads.

"I passed the exams along with your most recent predecessor. I was assigned to gather intelligence on the other participants. I recorded the exams in their entirety." Isamu reached into his pocket and removed a holodisk, stepped forward, and placed it on the desk, before stepping back and continuing his report, "There were four other participants. Krystal Solar and Zeki Sadojin from Stone. Angela Toujitakumi from Leaf and Yis Bunt from Kumogakure. Yis was the only other participant, besides myself and Shihana, to pass the exams."

Isamu paused to see if the twins would interrupt, "Our fight was primarily with Krystal and Zeki of Stone. Krystal used copies of herself and an unknown teleportation technique to frustrate our efforts to pin her down. Zeki primarily used earth and force techniques. Yis demonstrated an exceptionally powerful ice technique near the end of the fight. From his scores I gather he showed that he was quite strong through the rest of the fight. Perhaps the ANBU will be able to gather information from the video that I could not in the moment."

Isamu paused and waited for a response from the two twins.

Mission Completed:

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.

Given here

[Starnaess]

I gently placed the pen i was holding onto the desk  and i raised my gaze to meet the man's. "Ah yes, I was told about your mission - good job - we have been waiting for this holodisk" i said with authority as i pointed at one of the anbu present to then continue "You - have someone  analize it and report to me" - the anbu would proceed as instructed and disappear in a puff of smoke. "As you can  see we are rather busy" i gently nodded towards the enormous pile of documents to my right that needed to be read and signed. "I was not there to watch the chuunin exam myself - but i have been assured tht your performance was worthy of a rank promotion , therefore... "I stood up and as i placed both my arms behind my back i smiled and then continued "Congratulation - Isamu. Since you are now a Chuunin you have the right to an enchanted headband - make sure to leave your request at the front desk , down below. You can go now, but be sure to keep something in mind - this promotion comes with many benefits but just as many obligations towards your village and your colleagues - keep doing as you have done so far and you will be just fine. Now take the day off and prepare for tomorrow - im sure your superiors have already plenty of things prepared for you that require your attention."

After my brief  speech i sat down and continued reading and signing papers on the desk.

[Christoff]

Isamu stood at attention as the ANBU took the holodisk. The Sadojin felt the anticipating of the Kazekages' decision grip his entire body as the pair spoke in unison.

"Congratulation - Isamu. Since you are now a Chuunin you have the right to an enchanted headband - make sure to leave your request at the front desk , down below. You can go now, but be sure to keep something in mind - this promotion comes with many benefits but just as many obligations towards your village and your colleagues - keep doing as you have done so far and you will be just fine. Now take the day off and prepare for tomorrow - im sure your superiors have already plenty of things prepared for you that require your attention."

Isamu's mind was spinning as a rush of emotions came over him. He had worked so hard for so many years to reach this point, but the Kazekage was right. There were many other challenges ahead. His position now came with the responsibility to lead his fellow Shinobi. Isamu also knew that he was close to qualifying for Jounin. Then there were the ANBU Divisions. The promotion unlocked a whole level of new responsibilities and opportunities and he was eager to explore them.

Never one to forget proper etiquette Isamu bowed to the Kazekage and said, "Thank you. I will carry your words with me and let them guide my actions." With this Isamu turned and left the office. Following his orders he headed down hall and stairs into the lobby. Approaching the receptionist he handed the mission slip over and said, "I'd like to collect payment for this mission."

Seeking 70,000 ryo for mission approved above.

[echointhedark]

There would be a flash of yellow light as I'd suddenly appear in the room. The ritual hirashin tag on the back of the genin's headband would glow faintly as I'd try to re orientate myself to the location. It would seem Isamu had just started to leave the tower when I had arrived. It was quite interesting to watch how fast the pups around here could grow. A quick lookover of some of the forms and paper on the desk seemed to suggest that he had recently promoted. 

"Just a moment there." I'd say as I'd place my hand outwards, up against the headband of young Isamu. I'd quickly reform the ritual seal leaving a hirashin mark against the seal. My own runic styled engraving of two wolves devouring each other across charged chakra runes. "Before you head out there... Do remember that your rank will paint a larger target on your back. You are expected to be self sufficient now, you will likely be required to complete missions alone or lead the younger ninja yourself now."

I'd quickly pull out a small leather satchel filled with several rolls of thick paper bills. "Normally I'd craft something to commemorate the occasion, I'm afraid I lost track of time. Take this and use it to help you grow in this desert. What you don't use, store it as to never wither."




-Please Transfer 1.000.000 Ryo to Christoff/Isamu 

[Skulking Shinzu]

Mission Approved. +70,000 Ryo to Christoff.

Transaction Approved. -1,000,000 Ryo to Snow, and +1,000,000 to Christoff.

Snow new Ryo total: 82,397,000
Christoff new Ryo total: 1,083,200

[Christoff]

Isamu collected his pay for the mission and headed to the door. A flash of light lit the room and his peripherals causing him to wheel about. Standing behind him was Shiki Senri, clearly still orienting himself to his surroundings. Isamu relaxed realizing he was not about to fight. The memories of his fight with Krystal were fresh in his mind.

Shiki reached out and touched Isamu's headband and spoke, "Before you head out there... Do remember that your rank will paint a larger target on your back. You are expected to be self sufficient now, you will likely be required to complete missions alone or lead the younger ninja yourself now."

Isamu nodded, "Thank you, I am ready to serve."

Shiki pulled out a pouch and pressed it into Isamu's hand, "Normally I'd craft something to commemorate the occasion, I'm afraid I lost track of time. Take this and use it to help you grow in this desert. What you don't use, store it as to never wither."

Isamu was taken aback having expected nothing from Shiki. He had not even seen the former Kazekage in a year. Isamu stammered out his thanks, "Thank you Shiki, I will use this to prepare myself for the trials to come." He hoped his words echoed some of the formality and ceremony that Shiki himself had used.

[echointhedark]

"Use it how you wish." 

I'd say with a small smile on my face. "You could burn it for all I care. Just know the way you spend your money often represents your character." 

With time starting to press onwards and my boredom starting to peak, I realized it was probably about time for me to take my leave. I'd quickly leave the tower unless interrupted. 

[Starnaess]

Christoff

"Send him a message - tell him to go to the land of bears, we have a mission of the utmost urgency for him" i would comand one of my anbus to then turn away from him , walking towards the window in order to look down on my village - a worried look etched onto my face. "I hope he is going to be alright..." i whispered as my better half split from my body dressed exactly as i was with the exception that the clothes were made for women figures. She placed a hand onto my shoulder as she followed my gaze toward the vastity of sunagakure "He is going to be fine, im more worried about Isamu..." - "It was him i was worried about...Swims can be...well...Swims." Gwyn laughed.

The letter would describe a specific spot in the land of bears where other Ninjas will meet in order to deal with the appearance of something dangerous. he would then be in charge of two things. The protection of one of those Ninjas - unfortunately for him we would not be able to describe his appearance for he has many, but he goes by the name of Swims. The second thing was that he needed to take control of the group of ninjas, he needed to lead them towards the completion of the mission, regardless of  where the others came from. This was a test if he was fit to get promoted to a different squad in the village, a more important one.

Name: Doomwood
Rank: "A"
IIC Length: n/a
Difficulty:  Hard
Objective: Protect the V.I.P throughout the entire mission AND free Doomwood from the creature that is wrecking havoc there.
Description: The protection of the V.I.P comes before anything and anyone else. The reason for his presence should not concern you - make sure he comes out alive unharmed. On top of that, we require you to complete whatever task you are required to do in order to clear Doomwood.
Reward: 150,000 ryo + anbu credit.

------------

Swims' mission

Name: Doomwood
Rank: "A"
IIC Length: n/a
Difficulty: Hard
Objective: Survive Doomwood and Observe Isamu
Description: We assigned Isamu to your protection, you two shall meet in the land of bears two days from now. Make sure not to cause him TOO much trouble - you are there to test him, see how he acts, make him sweat a little,have fun with him. When you come back we will want to hear everything you have to  say.

Reward: 150,000 ryo

[Christoff]

(Enter)
Isamu entered the tower with his mission kit. He had received the summons only 45 minutes earlier. The Chunin had struck back to this apartment and outfitted himself quickly before hustling to the tower. It was not clear if he would need to be leaving immediately. Isamu introduced himself at he desk, "Isamu Shounin responding to a summons."

[Soul]

[enter]

Soul walked into the monstrously large tower of compacted sand, He had been in only once or twice but this time he was a man with purpose. Looking around he would see two rather attractive females at what looked to be a help or secretary desk in the center of the rather well lit room. walking over to them he would have to express his like of whomever was wearing a very aromatic fragrance."Excuse me ladies, But would you know where a shinobi might find either a recruiter or someone looking for a three man team or a person I might be able to team up with to be in a Duo with? You see I would really like to have someone to train/ Spar/ & go on missions with but while looking for someone around the village it seems to be a ghost town. If you could help me I would greatly appreciate it. I thank you kindly for all your help and hope you have a great day." He would then take a step back to look at a wall nearby with posters and want adds attached to it as he awaited their possible answer.