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The current Otokage of Hidden Sound requests a formal audience with the lord of the Hidden Snow. Given the direct attempt to send this message via courier, it is evident that our nation reaches out to you with peaceful arms and not talons of disdain; despite the exchange of power as the Sound Shadow, an alliance between Oto- and Yukigakure has been since established and the new Otokage wishes to welcome a continued camaraderie between the outskirt nations.
Our nation would like to mention that we are in dire need of allies within our Lideren territories—it would seem that a strange race has descended into the rice fields from the northern Black Mountains, and many of our people have been slaughtered or taken captive by these foreign monstrosities. We do not understand their relationship to several other occurrences brought to our realm from the deep reaches of the northern world, but we are requesting your assistance. Please arrange for a letter of either acceptance or denial to be sent to the rice field capital Meikyoku where one of our operatives will intercept your messenger and return to the hidden village. Currently the embassy is under construction, but your message will reach our headquarters.
If you accept, it will be further arranged to meet in Minerai, the capital of Frost country; if you reject sending aid, then perhaps when you are in need of ours, we won’t turn our eyes from your hardships.
Signed,
The Otokage’s assistant, Li Hideki
Last Edit: Sept 20, 2020 22:02:24 GMT -7 by chimecho: phone edit <pout
Post by Claws of the Tundra on Oct 1, 2020 10:07:44 GMT -7
[In response to the Message:]
The message dispatched from Oto no Kuni, would be received, and handled with grace and haste by Festungstadt staff. Nothing complicated of the sort. In fact it would all be rather smooth to begin with. Only the intended viewer would have the chance to view the letter.
Post by Marii K. Kazeraikou on Jan 13, 2021 12:11:58 GMT -7
[Enter messenger bird]
A barn owl approached the embassy. It would land in front of the guards watching the building. The bird carried something on its back. The "something" appeared to be a scroll with a wax seal. It was the seal of Kumogakure no Sato.
I would like to request a formal audience with the Yukikage. My village would like to improve the relationship with Yukigakure no Sato. Firstly, Yukigakure is the closest village to Kumogakure. I have not met the Yukikage yet either. If possible, I would like to meet you face to face in Yozamu.
The guards watching over the front of the building; quickly sighted and, made contact with the messenger bird as necessary. They'd take precious care of the avian creature as they retrieved its cargo. From here the message, would be taken and brought to a certified reader with haste. Thus freeing the brave messenger to return home.
Post by Marii K. Kazeraikou on Jan 15, 2021 10:31:16 GMT -7
The bird seemed pleased to get such good treatment. It took only a few minutes for the humans to retrieve the letter. The barn owl took a small rest as they took care of their business. Once the creature was rested, it left Yozamu. Their job was complete.
Post by Claws of the Tundra on Jan 21, 2021 21:27:40 GMT -7
[Enter, Lady Kahimi Inuzuka]
The venture all the way out here to Yomazu was tedious; however the alone time was very much worth the effort. Kahimi found herself somehow falling in love with this bitter cold island of a country again. A genuine smile kept onto her face, as she laid eyes upon the capitol city of Yomazu. A warm feeling now sweeping through her very being as she witnessed it in its rejuvenated state. Its been a very long time since she last saw that place. A sin, she doesn't wanna repeat all too often.
Soon enough, Kahimi would make her way to the Northern Gates of the city. Checking in with the guards, there whom were surprised to see her. She'd greet them accordingly before moving on. Once she actually arrived to Festungstadt she found herself entering her much more professional mode again.
Giving her presence to the staff only in small increments. She'd move through the lobby like a gust of wind. Hardly making a scene as she gained access to the more secluded depths of the building. Listening as she was talked to be higher ups looking to make a good impression. She happily half listened until she found a representative. They'd bow and greet her formally, she'd return the gesture in her usual nonchalant ways. Then speak accordingly.
"Here" She'd say while handing them five documents. "I need you to help get these sent on their way please. Do so as soon as possible. I don't want to spend any more time on this than I already have. Oh, and be sure to give my secretary any and all information on big jobs that can be done within the city so my ninja can do their part. Yomazu should be head of schedule by the time we are halfway through the year."
Once that request was given, Kahimi would take the time to look around the Embassy. Ensuring that the place was in better shape since the attack on the capitol years ago.
(Five Messenger Animals sent. Destinations: Tsuchi no Kuni, Kaminari no Kuni, Mizu no Kuni, Ame no Kuni, & Oto no Kuni)
It had been three days since Ayumu had arrived in Yuki no Kuni. These three days had been a mixture of confusion, new determination, and despair. After buying his winter clothing, he had gone for a long walk around the city. The newness was stark, but so was the familiarity. These faces and places he had never seen before – they were just folks. The sort of folks he had always known, had always operated amongst. He saw hints of crime and desperation and moments of tenderness and joy. He saw life itself, lived as it always ought to be. And, in the frozen puddles smattered throughout the cobblestones streets, he saw his own figured. Unclean, and in all dark clothing, with a wool cap to complete the look. Only the red and white of the mark of the Uchiha on his cheap little ring gave any contrast to his figure. He looked alone. In the reflections of these puddles, he even looked encased in ice.
The first night, he decided to stay in a park. He noticed that some homeless folks were having a fire, burning some trash and some wood, so he decided to join them. They freaked out, understandably, at an outsider. Ayumu leaned into this, by quickly and aggressively doing handsigns. This frightened them further, emboldening one to draw a weapon. However, when the jutsu was completed, a minor figment would appear over the fire pit. It was a brought-to-life version of a cheesy porno mag. An animated woman and man fucking like animals, but floating in mid air. The others got a chuckle out of this and let him stay nearby for the night.
The next day, his reflection began to bother him even more. His eyes were puffy from poor sleep, and his stubble had grown out considerably. So he decided to stay the night at a hostel, where he would be treated a bit better. In the bathroom that night, he dug through his bag, noting the two canisters of water he had packed, as well as his B.I.N.G.O. Book. He withdrew one of four knives he had on him, and slowly dragged it across his face. In the end, he had a smooth enough shave.
Seeing his reflection that third day, he liked the look of himself a bit more, at least aesthetically. He looked groomed. And rested. Everything he ought to be, realistically. But there was something wrong. In his eyes, he could see some restlessness. Perhaps his aimlessness wasn't skin deep. Perhaps he really had to figure out what he was to do in this place.
And just when he was starting to think this through, that bitch that is memory decided to pay him a visit. He remembered an impassioned speech an elder had given him once, about the nobility and potential of ninja work. About what a great warrior he could be if he went to Knonoha and joined the ninja corps, et cetera et cetera. The memory was truly crisp - he could see the bags under the elders' eyes, smell the cooking of his old home in Yokoburi, and feel the discomfort of the mat on which he was seated. This memory was too crisp for even Ayumu to ignore. The wheels began to turn in his head...
Ninja work... elders. Isn't there a Hidden Village of the Snow? Maybe they've got work a freelancer could do. Or maybe I could teach? The thought of this teaching reverberated in his head. That was what the Uchiha Manor he was living in was for, the creation of a new generation. And here he was, pushing 30, aimless in the streets of a foreign city. He had to at least give a small effort to what his fore-bearers wanted.
After asking directions from several strangers, He arrived at the square around Festungstadt around noon. The building was quite impressive. High walls towered into the air. The metal gate looked heavy, to fend off would-be attackers. He couldn't help but wonder who the hell would be in the corner of the fucking world making an attack on a village of ninja, but this wasn't his concern. The time had come to make something happen.
There was nobody stationed outside the gate at the moment. Looking around, he tried to figure out how to get in without causing too much of a scene. True, he could force his way through, but that's not how one makes an offer to a head of state.
There was a guard, patrolling the walls. He wasn't looking too carefully at all the people milling about, however. Ayumu approached the gate, but was still momentarily unnoticed. Frustrated, he reached down, kicked up a stone from the cobbled square, and tossed it at the gate to make a clanging noise. "Hey, bub!" He would holler as warmly as he could.
Gulping, he would await admission to the embassy at Festungstadt. He could only imagine the grandeur of its interior matched its exterior.
Post by Claws of the Tundra on Jan 22, 2021 20:20:44 GMT -7
Routines.
Dry, tedious routines destined for utter failure. The singular sentry making his rounds, and doing so semi-lazily. He'd get startled out of his automatic pacing when the loud panging noise emitted nearby. His attention soon darting towards the voice calling out to him. His body shifted, and his hands gripped together into fists. However after a little, bit of foresight into the scenario he immediately gathered things together.
A foreigner...
Not many people from around here, would really make a scene like this. Not so openly anyway...
The guard would scratch his head a bit, before finally responding. "Uh, sorry about that. Stay right there, I'll escort you in." he'd say before taking the time to unlock, and open up the gate. The heavy metal gate opened slowly, but smoothly. Revealing its level of upkeep, and showing how much these people actually want to keep that gate in good condition.
That said, the male guard walked pass the gate as it opened to get a better look of the man. Trying to get a general read of his demeanor, and just double check this isn't gonna somehow backfire on him. It would only be a simple pause once he closed the gap. Eventually leading to him speaking up.
"Normally I have to check I.D to be allowed to let you in. Just give me your name, and where you came from; I can work with that." He'd say in a calm tone of voice. Which once those simple details were given the guard wouldn't mind walking the visitor towards the actually main building of Festungstadt. The large clocktower available to tell the time of the day. Once there the main doors would be opened up, and the guard will lead him inside by holding the doors open for him.
[The Interior]
Once there, the insides of Festungstadt withhold a very prominently decorated appearance. While the ideas, and inner architecture is rather old, its still luxurious enough to catch eyes. However...there are...discrepancies to be of note. There are plenty of people moving about the lobby to their respective places, and desired locations. Many of them formally dressed, and busy looking. Not as much of a visitor heavy area as it somewhat looks on the inside. And there are...damaged goods in terms of the available furniture, and some of the inner structure. As if a short-term battle...no riot went on in here. A long time ago, maybe a year or two but...recent enough where apparently its not covered up yet. And yet...people are still moving around working as normal.
The pebble got the guards attention, or perhaps it was the outcry. Regardless, Ayumu stood there in pleasant silence, feeling the cold of the Yuki no Kuni air on his face as the guard walked his way over to the gate. The guard said that 'normally' he would require ID, and Ayumu didn't have anything. But, the guard seemed willing to let this slide, which was pleasant enough.
"Oh. Uh. I'm Ayumu Uchiha. I'm from..." He would trail off for a second. "I'm originally from Yokoburi. I do a fair bit of traveling, these days." Saying that seemed to calm him down slightly, as if articulating his presence legitimized it.
Ayumu would follow the guard through the heavy walls. He would glance around and examine the grandeur of it, and would be two-fold when he entered into the visitor area. There were people moving about, with purpose. While he'd been able to disappear in crowds the last three days, this crowd was different. There was a unity in purpose. Not Ayumu's usual scene for sure. As if to confirm he was still there, he would reach up and scratch his chin, feeling the comparative smoothness of his face from his recent shave.
He was a keen observer – to train the eye was his specialty – so he picked up quickly on evidence of struggle here. The form of struggle was not immediately apparent. Was it looting? Surely, this place was too ostentatious to have been the victim of a recent lotting. And a hidden ninja village, if they were to cover something up, would do it right. Ayumu would take in any additional details he could as he took a deep breath.
Finally, he would be able to approach the receptionist. They stood there, dressed to match the room. Ayumu would lumber up, suddenly even more conscious of the weight of his actions. He would first await for her to be un-busy, and gain her attention
Making a light bow is that respectful enough?[/] he would lock eyes with her and smile gently. Remember, she holds the cards here."I have come to seek employment with the Village Hidden in the Snow." Employment? Don't be vague."For some context, I am a masterful practitioner of Genjutsu, and a respected member of the Uchiha Clan. I would be willing to offer my services as a soldier of fortune, or as a teacher. I can teach both the usage of Genjutsu, as well as the avoidance of it." Ayumu felt his message was too curt, but he was trying his best here to reach the level of formalism needed.
Post by Claws of the Tundra on Jan 27, 2021 15:54:30 GMT -7
The embassy guard, took note of the strangers name & followed through with the minor promise he made. Although the guard, would look at Ayumu slightly inquisitively when they heard their family name. There are many clans, and ethnic backgrounds here in Yuki no Kuni, but the amount of Uchiha to come by? Thats...minimal. There is that one girl who tends to drink a lot in terms of recent memory...
Regardless, time moved on accordingly and Ayumu would be free to go about things as they were. The guard, quickly relocated them within the embassy's inner sectors, and guided them towards the receptionist's desk. The guard even gave the courtesy of introducing the man.
"Vivian, we have a vistor. From Yokoburi and claims to be an Uchiha. His name is Ayumu, do you mind taking care of things, and seeing what they want. Thanks." the armed man would say. He'd make sure the receptionist actually heard him, and understood before going back to his post. From there, the receptionist would turn her dark brown gaze towards the smooth shaven man before her on the other side of the desk. Giving him a very short look over, before setting aside the work she was tending to.
Vivian was a youthful adult by the looks of it. No outstanding characteristics beyond how...normal she looks. Probably no older than 23 to 28 at best. Probably only works the day and mid shifts, in order to have somewhat of a life afterwards. Straight to the point, and yet kind enough to not be a blunt asshole. She'd wait for Ayumu to finish introducing himself, and explaining his wishes, and giving a small bit of his background and reputation. Assuming his is telling the truth, Vivian would react accordingly. With professionalism and genuine care.
"Hm. I don't know much about how outside help looking to work with Yukigakure, is entirely handled. All I usually have to do is call over a representative who is supposed to handle those things." she'd explain.
"If that is the case then you are in luck mister. The cah-ghey (kage) or whatever they are called is actually here right now. If I send a quick message upstairs hopefully they can come down, and talk to you about getting work. Does that work Ayumu?" she'd say kindly, already tilting her body within her swivel chair to prepare to send a message from the desk's computer.
The plain-looking woman at the counter basically said that she couldn't help him directly. But in the artful manner of a skilled public-facing employee, she escalated things. However, the way she escalated it, Ayumu could never have predicted – certainly, things at B.I.N.G.O. don't escalate like this. He was going right to the top. He scratched his head as the gears slowly turned on the fact that he was likely to get a meeting with the Kage, for something as simple asking for work.
"I suppose it does work." He shrugged his shoulders, and bit the inside of his lip. He had to think about exactly how he was going to do this.
What does it say if the Yukikage is right here, right now, for me to meet?
After a second lost in thought, he would snap back to focus. He would smile gently and speak once more. "Thank you for doing this."
Ayumu would prepare to step back and await the Kage's arrival wherever seemed appropriate.
Post by Claws of the Tundra on Jan 29, 2021 15:01:55 GMT -7
(Part 1 of 2)
As prodigious as the offer was, Ayumu will get to see just how real, and tangible it really is. His hesitation was quite understandable. For one reason or another, jumping into a situation like what is being proposed, wouldn't be the wisest thing. Albeit it also is an opportunity that most, rather not pass up. A phycological gamble in a way.
Still, it seems the man decided to go forward with the suggestion so it Vivian would quietly carry on with attempting to see it through. The delicate tapping of keys filled the quiet space around them, while everything else was background noise. Then within that same minute or so, Vivian finally responded.
"Got it! Looks like I got a positive reaction. They will most likely be down here within the next ten to fifteen minutes. If you don't mind there is a waiting area over there; they've got some neat magazines & games you can use, to keep yourself busy." she'd say with a slight charm to her demeanor and words. Giving Ayumu a kind and small smile.
[16 Minutes Later...]
If Ayumu obliged in one way or another the time would go on accordingly, and approximately be fifteen to sixteen minutes before anyone notable arrived. The arrival of the kage was subtle, but easy to spot. Out of all the people wearing highly formal to casually formal attire only one of them stood out as wildly as the Yukikage does. Especially in a room like this...
From where Ayumu would be, he'd get the chance to notice Vivian be called over by starchy looking man with broad shoulders. Standing behind him, would be two other people. One man & one woman. Vivian, would had to work her way to either side of the room and climb the curved steps that would lead her to the middle of the second floor's balcony area.
This is where she would be headed to go see what the much bulkier looking man wants. During the short conversation Vivian would point directly in Ayumu's direction. All three of the formally dressed representatives then turning their watchful gazes over to him. Glancing for a moment. The larger man looking slightly longer than the other two.
Beyond that however, a new person would seemingly walk up near the balcony's edge and into view. A woman with pale white skin, and very similarly colored hair. She was not formally dressed at all, from what Ayumu would be able to see.
Within a minute after her arrival, the other three before her would disperse from the conversation as it seems it has come to an end. Which left Vivian and the new face in the picture. Those two eventually would begin walking in Ayumu's direction.
Post by Claws of the Tundra on Jan 29, 2021 15:42:11 GMT -7
(Part 2 of 2)
By now it should become clear that the time had come to meet the proclaimed kage of the Village Hidden in the Snow. Someone who is as brightly white, and stands out as much as the land she rules over does. Vivian led this woman straight towards Ayumu. Their collective pace was relaxed, but a little faster than the average walk.
Once they got there, the kage's appearance and stature came into full view before the man. She was a young adult woman. Stood at approximately five feet, & five inches tall. Definitely in her twenties. Beyond the prestigious robe, that loosely hung off of her shoulders she'd be dressed in standard shinobi gear. Easily could pass as a regular kunoichi among the ranks if she didn't have the village branded robe over everything else.
Her silvery-white hair would cascade behind her body like a waterfall, only ending around her ankles. Her eyebrows matched this color, hinting that the pigmentation is natural. Her eyes were heterochromatic, with the right one seemingly blind white, while the other was a vibrant light clue.
Her skin was pale, but extremely soft and smooth looking. As if she hasn't aged one bit. The left side of her face drastically covered by a three thick black curving spikes coming from the endpoint of her jaw & side of her face all the way near the bridge of her nose. The kage also had a few piercings. Mainly in the one visible ear on the left.
Her demeanor would be rather bluntly unenthusiastic. Her hips were tilted to the right, as her arms were folded underneath her chest. She did not smile once, and her ice cold gaze could seemingly go for a thousand miles. It would be hard to tell if she was upset, bored, unamused, uninterested, or...all of the above?? She was just...presence and very strongly so.
[End Fluff]
To get things moving, Vivian would clear her throat, before openly greeting the smooth shaven Uchiha again. "Ayumu, I hope the wait wasn't too long. This is the leader of Yuki-ga-cure-ray?...um. Lady Kahimi Inuzuka." she'd begin. Once again struggling with some of the words & names.
Carrying on with the introduction however, Vivian continued speaking. Turning to face the Yukikage who, now finally turned her piercing gaze on to someone else besides Ayumu. "Lady Yuki cah-get?...sorry, Kage. This is uh...Ah-you-moo Uni-ha? He's the one looking for a job." she'd say although looking flustered with her fumblings as an end result.
Kahimi seemingly didn't pay the pronunciation issues any mind, and response. Her voice despite her cold and quiet appearance would be soft, relaxed, and comforting.
"Thank you Vivian, you may return to your work now." she'd say before looking over at Ayumu now. Her gaze still a little tense. Once Vivian had left the two of them to themselves, she'd move on. Kahimi's voice tone would remain the same while she spoke.
"I hope you didn't have to come a long way. I can't imagine the bitter cold of our home is the most relaxing for most visitors. I'm looking forward to the possibility of making some good steps forward Ayumu." she said with a calm warmth to her tone.
Ayumu moved and sat. He was offered magazines and games. He didn't take up either offer. Instead, he would pull out a small leather-bound book from his backpack. The B.I.N.G.O. Book, of course. He would leaf through the pages, examining the descriptions of the wanted people within. He would note any bounties referencing Yukigakure or the Yukikage. Two would strike him. One was for a woman who was accused of blowing up the Yukikage Tower. A bold accusation.
The other was for a former Hokage – leader of Konohagakure in the Land of Fire. The bounty was for less than 300,000 Ryo. Ayumu had to stifle a laugh. 300 Big Ones for the highest profile target... and to bring 'em alive. These people. It began to click to Ayumu. This village can't be doing too hot. Destroyed tower, embarrassed Yukikage throwing down trivial change to have the Hokage brought to justice... Hard times. In a way, this revelation softened his heart to Yukigakure no Sato. He wasn't one to love organization, but certainly, there was something to an underdog, especially one with such high expectations. Perhaps, the Yukikage would be to a Kage what Ayumu was to a Elder of Uchiha.
He would glance up from these images of dangerous faces when the sounds in the room queued him into the fact that there was a real dangerous face. She spoke to the receptionist. It could only be the Lady of the Snow. Ayumu stared for a second. Almost beautiful, kinda. His intuition went to become aware of his face, only to realize he was clean-shaven.
His black winter clothing, cloak and hat and boots and pants, would stand in stark contrast to this woman in front of him. Like night and shining day. The lady he saw, with her stubborn posture, heteroaromatic eyes and fantastically long hair looked the embodiment of winter snow.
Ayumu wished he could see his breath when he spoke. But, he supposed, it would kinda suck if this place was that cold.
"Whether I have come a long way or a short way depends on where you count the beginning of my journey. I have spent a good deal of time in Hitofuki, of the Land of Wind. Winter sport sounds more relaxing than the beach, these days." Ayumu would say mostly nonchalant, but with a touch of warmth. He would stand, and make eye contact with the younger woman. "The Lady Yukikage, I presume?" He spoke even more pleasantly, as if his mood had somehow been pleasantly lifted by the lack of icy cold in her.
"I'm glad to hear that." He would half chuckle. "It is much easier to walk forwards than backwards." His eyes would smile with the humor of a sage who has just delivered a striking Zen Koan. "What sort of steps are you prepared to take?"
Post by Claws of the Tundra on Jan 30, 2021 19:40:40 GMT -7
The pale Inuzuka scanned over this Ayumu person with subtle glances. Doing the exact bare minimum in everyway, except in terms of greeting him. Everyone deserved a basic level of respect until proven otherwise. That was the simplest rule she'd ever live by. In a room full of forgettable faces, he stood out enough to her. His scent did too. His shaved face seemed off to her.
She wouldn't pay enough attention to really tell if its new or not. She doesn't know him like that, but that was enough to keep her interested. Everyone else is forgettable. They are too busy to be worth talking to anyway as far as she is concerned. This guy...he looks like he has time. Like the world has yet to chew him up, and spit him out into following a daily routine life. Which means he is an outlier. At least...she wants to assume he is.
When he spoke her attention was on him, like a sniper staying on target. Simply watching and listening. It was her natural state of being around strangers. Until the rest of her decided to show itself. Taking in all the details she could from him and his presented personality.
The way he spoke, made her want to find out a little more. For multiple varying reasons, but she was interested nonetheless. His following question, would then be answered accordingly. Her tone still holding the same kind warmth as before.
"Yes. That would be me." she'd confirm in a simple manner. His humor quips would touch all the right spot to make her bright up just a little. Her plush lips curling into a small smile in the end. Her youthful features now becoming more present, especially as the light in the lobby reflected off them.
His next question though, would ignite a soft chuckle from the Yukikage. Closing her eyes as if she was about to get into deep thought. However that was not the case. She knew the answer to begin with. Her smile never fell once. Nothing except eye contact and meaning behind her words would come next.
"Steps, leaps, jumps. Quite simply I'm prepared to take and make as many as I need to & more. Whatever will bring my people to the new age. With or without allies. But words are only flavor. I'll be happily show you in due time." She would explain shortly. Presenting the answer with confidence as if she was expecting that question somehow.
After that, she would walk a little closer to him. Making sure to take a few steps as possible to get to him as a subtle, yet playful jab. "Speaking of which... Lets get started and take steps, towards getting you ready for work yeah?" she would suggest with a playfully flirtatious smirk on her face, and a charming glint in her mismatched irises.
The Yukikage and the roving Uchiha were fully conversing now. With the most necessary of introductions finished, Ayumu would look carefully at her face as she smiled. He wondered what she was really all about, but he had no way of knowing for the moment. Instead, he just had to process the appearances of the woman, like an incoming tide. What strange things would be left in the sand when it hd gone back out to sea remained impossible for him to predict.
She insisted that she was prepared for "Steps, leaps, jumps. Quite simply I'm prepared to take and make as many as I need to & more. Whatever will bring my people to the new age. With or without allies. But words are only flavor. I'll be happily show you in due time." She spoke with the true persuasion of stateswoman, but also in glittering generalities. But Ayumu had no problem with uncertainty.
He considered making a snide comment about life and flavor, but thought better of it. He had been sufficiently kind for the moment. He wanted to let the ball roll into her court.
And with the ball in her court, she acted decisively. In a few big steps she closed most of the gap between them. She would stand close enough to Ayumu that she would be looking up to make eye contact with him. He would be looking down towards her. Their mismatch between their physical statures and their ranks in this society of Ninja appearing starker than ever.
Ayumu was now close enough for his sharp senses to catch the smell of her breath as she spoke. He tightened his shoulders slightly, adjusting his posture to be more correct. He would note her flirtatious smile. In a way, this sent Ayumu deeper into thought. Who is this woman, really? I know I came to her for work, but now I'm almost more curious. Who are the leaders of this ninja world? What does all the power and stress of a woman of state do to someone like this?
"Speaking of which... Lets get started and take steps, towards getting you ready for work yeah?" she jabbed.
Ayumu would return her smile and glinting eyes with something between a warm smirk and smile. He would blink carefully as he looked downwards at this. "I suppose that's the natural next step." He would joke, sliding his right foot half a step forward into the rapidly diminishing neutral space between them. Ayumu shifted his weight and prepared to move.
Post by Claws of the Tundra on Feb 1, 2021 23:03:25 GMT -7
(Part 1 of 3)
She had the momentum now. This should be the case anyway since she is the one holding a strong position as an employer. This Ayumu person has entered the Yukikage's domain now. Thus she had all the room to play as many games as she wants. Granted that would all depend on if she even cares enough to do so. Which as it stands currently, is an undetermined factor. Although it does lead on to the positive side.
At least in terms of what lies ahead. Her terribly cold and cryptic look seemed to cease entirely now. Seemingly accepting her fate in guiding this man, and furthering the adventure with him. Diving headfirst into an undefined outcome. A venture to find out what the future from here holds, and how much it will actually mean anything at all.
Without question Ayumu would get the last word, to end off the introduction. Outwardly playing off of her progressive flirtatiousness with ease. To her pleasant surprise; the two of them were like well-aligned gears so far. Moving the other along in little ways, that all combine into one fluid cycle of motion. The Yukikage didn't hesitate to move after the man prepared his first step. Letting him lead himself with his best foot forward, and simply began to walk towards the front doors of the embassy. The formal building has served its purpose well enough. The stage will no longer be set here.
Once outside, Kahimi had a natural stride to her steps. Not once did she make a move to change how her clothing fit on her. Nor did she have a react to the sudden vast change in temperatures. Local or not, a change like that gets felt. And yet, with the Yukikage by the man's side; there would be a chance to notice how generally unfazed she was at the fact that she was in public too. Unfazed by the falling snow as it all seemed to abide by her presence. And if even if they didn't she'd move on without worry. Only the adventurous snowflakes wish to touch her. However, it hardly made a difference, as she naturally blended in with the winter-like backgrounds. A woman of the environment as predicted.
Uniquely however, Kahimi would be walking along the streets of Yomazu with body language that was as still as ice, but a presence that was as vibrant as the sun. Her womanly curves hardly advertised anything besides noticeably being there. And yet...with a trained eye, one could notice that her plush lips were curled into the most subtle of smiles as she stared straight ahead.
She was planning something already. Its only been a couple minutes since they left the embassy, and yet she is planning something. But what? Who knows...
Post by Claws of the Tundra on Feb 1, 2021 23:36:58 GMT -7
(Part 2 of 3)
Throughout their unscheduled adventure, the once emotionless Yukikage remained comfortably quiet. At least that is what her demeanor would give off. The presentation that she was quite fine with walking in silence. Almost as if...in the mere few minutes that they have been walking she has forgotten that he was there. As if he had now become her shadow, as she leads the way for him.
A small, but noticeable selection of people would glance in the Yukikage's direction while she walked with Ayumu. Which by association means they would glance at him. Something that initially isn't common. Ayumu blended in just fine despite being a foreigner. Now? He is in the limelight.
Why is that? Perhaps the Yukikage doesn't support Yomazu? Perhaps it's simply a little fame being rubbed off in his direction since he is with her. Maybe they are just staring for the hell of it? Or...Ayumu hasn't noticed and understandably isn't paying attention to that. Either way...it IS happening. Not matter though. Those are just details.
One simple undeniable detail though, is that the long streets of Yomazu provided plenty of seconds worth of going down one distinct pathway until a change in direction occurs. Everything in a very sturdy, and blocky way flowed into one another. The island's capital city has as much color as a blind person probably has a vibrant imagination. The charm is all imaginative and yet intrinsic sure. However, the somewhat depressing reality is all the more real. This place is only trying to be left alone and get by each day for as long as it needs to.
The people here are aware of their surroundings, friends, family, and enemies. It all plays a part. The architecture is both new and old, yet more or less still fits a broad black and white picture. Which once analyzed enough the conclusion to how Ayumu & Kahimi fit her because as obvious as a stain on a white T-Shirt.
These two are outliers. In what way? News flash...it doesn't matter. And so...time in this city will very quickly feel as odd as the snowfall itself. Very boringly the same, and yet...somehow charmingly heartwarming. A nuisance, but also...entertaining. There is something to be enjoyed for sure. It just has to be found...
It has been nearly half an hour of walking now, and it would be around this time that Kahimi would slowly come to a halt. Standing in the middle of an enormously open space that is split into multiple different streets in a clockwise fashion. All of them leading to different districts in the city.
They were in the main square now.
Kahimi would pivot in place a few times. Looking around a little, which finally broke the endless stillness she seemed to be cursed in. Of course being mindful of the space in between herself and Ayumu as she spins around to look at things. She does have a lot of hair after all. Eventually she'd gain a playfully determined look as it seemed a bit of excitement was building up within her.
"This way~" she'd coo in the form of an announcement so Ayumu was ready to keep up.
Post by Claws of the Tundra on Feb 1, 2021 23:52:03 GMT -7
Part 3 of 3
Their trip was now almost over. Although it hardly even began if one factor in the actual short amount of time they spent walking. A quick, and hopefully painless transition from where they once were half an hour ago. Kahimi had a tad bit more life in her movements now. Her hips naturally swaying as her body was no longer stiff & fixated on only moving forward. Her arms slowly rising up back into that folded position she had them in back in the embassy. It's as if she had been reset overtime during the whole trip here. Her anticipation for what is to come next would be much clearer due to her shift in body language.
After about of minute of more walking, she would speak up again. Having a calm and relaxed tone for the most part. "Tell me Ayumu, what kind of restaurants have you been to? How did they make you feel?" She'd ask suddenly while still leading the way. Choosing not to say anything else until he answered. That is if he chooses to of course. Regardless of how it is or isn't answered she would speak up again once they approached a decently decorated building up on the lefthand side of the quiet streets.
"I hope you will like this one. It's a bit of a weird place, but that is sort of why it's interesting." She'd say as they approached the front entrance of what looked to be a late-night diner. One monikered with the neon-lit sign that says: Loud Mouth Eats on above.
In silence, the Yukikage would begin to walk away. There ws the clear presumption that he would follow. In a way, Ayumu considered the humor in simply refusing to budge. Would the 'dignified' head of state turn around for a burnout like him? It was an interesting question of respect. He decided not to push it though. The sense of ancestral obligation inside of him had not yet abated. So he strolled at a solid pace, staying only a step behind her, anticipating her movements, and keeping up. She was a fast mover, but Ayumu was taller and his casual strides carried him further.
As they strolled through the streets of the city, which Ayumu was getting more and more familiar with, Ayumu would glance around. He tended to be a reasonably perceptive person. He would often shift the illusions of his own form, to allow him to melt into and through crowds. But here, he felt some obligation to show his face, not to these people, but to this woman. She was, at least in appearances, getting prepared to play some part of her hand. He could at least play his face.
He did sense though, an air of discontement. Stranger in heavy cloathing would stare at the icy-skinned woman as she walked by. And it was not the cruel harassment a young woman might expect in the streets of the city. There was contempt, rather than desire in these eyes. Ayumu would try his best to commit some of these faces to memory. A tall man. A limping woman. Perhaps I will see them again, and perhaps I can learn something.
Ayumu was still enjoying the sights of this icy city. The snow and the wind and the stout buildings designed to stay warm. The intense wood smoke, the spread-ashes from coal-fires to keep the sidewalk melted. He was still, in a way, refreshed by this change of scene. Looking kept him busy as this woman kept her silence.
Finally, she would speak again, but only to coo "This way." Ayumu would not respond to this, but would look at her face for a few moments. She has a certain air of preparedness. Was she ready for an opportunity like this, or is she simply the sort who can seize a moment when it presents itself?
As they made progress, and their journey reached nearly 30 minutes in length, Ayumu realized he hadn't felt any real cold, except on the exposed areas of his face. The fast pace and warm clothing was sufficient. This frozen tundra was not as bad as one might make it out to be. But it might wear on you. Change your perspective on warmth and cold. Give you an appreciation for staying in. His mind was truly wandering at this point. So he had to snap back to reality when the lady finally spoke. She inquired as to what restaurants he had tried.
Here, Ayumu was uncertain what she meant. Did she mean in Yozamu, or in general. The former would make more sense. But, still. It was a difficult thing to say. Ayumu was often concerned with the possibility that nobody could ever know what was happening to anybody.
He formulated his reply for a second. He had broken bread with some homeless folks, although he didn't think that counted. He had bought a small breakfast from the hotel, and otherwise eaten just produce and other things from marketplaces here. "I haven't eaten out much in Yuki no Kuni. Just buying food and eating it wherever I stay. Typically, I get to know some Mom-and-Pop places wherever I stay. I have no real taste for fine dining. As long as I can get something decent to eat when I'm good and hungry, I call a restaurant a winner"
As he finished up his reply, the fair woman would stand in front of a diner, signaling that here they would stop. It was a typical diner – lit with a neon sign and all. Ayumu was familiar with diners, and had made many a stop like this, on late nights traveling, or to meet with criminal contacts. In the light of day, however, the setting seemed almost unfamiliar.
Having been snapped back into the give-and-take exchange they had shared at the embassy, he would listen and smile as she hedged his expectations for the diner. Ayumu had been known to drink a stale beer from time to time; her qualifications to the weirdness of this place felt unneeded to him. He would nod in reply, and as she finished speaking, take one step past her, and reach for the door. He would then be able to look back at her. "After you, of course." He would say, with a detached, but almost humorous politeness.