Operation Silver Lining [Event Thread] & [JE]

[Hoarfrost Imp]

An armful of spoils. Oh yes. Already grinning to a near ear to ear she rifled through her inventory and put away what she could, finding herself running low on pockets given the few slots she could carry worth. The blades? They looked neat. They could certainly be addressed later.

Slipping the goggles on she stumbled a bit, the zoom going in and out and giving the little savage a sense of vertigo. "Ngh..." Irritably- she snatched them off and went back to join her original self while the tall woman took to flying. Odd woman, that one. Map in hand she took a glance, shook her head and Both Junipers took off at a four legged scamper across the snow before bounding hard, jumping at a hard 50+ meters per sprint to get where she needed swiftly!

[Ranzu]

Zeki was a in a sullen mood from being around so much frozen water so when he was suddenly snapped at by Gwyn it took him back some, taking a half step back at the sudden hostility given to him by the other ninja. After a couple of seconds of just staring at the Gwyn he was about to open his mouth when the anbu captain spoke again, this time detailing where we was suppose to go to get to outpost A.

Krystal crossed the room to examine the map before Zeki did, though the Sadojin was once again paused in thought for a few seconds as he weighed his options. When the map was handed to him, Zeki would subtly shake his head at Krystal's offer but would mouth "Thanks" to her before she walked away. He was still weighing his options once again as the anbu captain started to speak once more though Zeki was barely listening to her at this time.

Finely he came to a decision. A single slight from a rude yuki ninja was not enough for him to respond in kind, even if it seemed his kage had his back. Starting a international incident would not be something to do lightly...but at the same time he decided that not interacting with the rude yuki would be best. Plus she seemed quite bossy and overbearing which was another thing that Zeki despised, so it worked even more in favor just to ignore the ingrate.

"Thank you for the map. And for being understanding that not everyone will know their way around." Zeki replies even as he notes how...frosty her comment was too. Yuki did not seem to be a very warm place, in temperature or relations. The Sadojin then exits the bunker and starts down the path at a pace. It would be better for him to just get this over with and leave as soon as possible it seem.

[Claws of the Tundra]

With the briefing concluded the batch of people brought in from different areas of the globe they all take up space on, dispatched one by one. Any lingering bits of tension between them, would most likely be addressed elsewhere. The Captain simply bowed towards Zeki out of neutral respect, before he made his leave.

Personal feelings weren't going to get in the way of this operation for Fujioka, and with everything going the way it is she only hoped they'd do the same. Otherwise it may jeopardize a few things. Anyway once Zeki made his leave, the Captain and her Anbu would follow suit though inevitably went a different direction than the rest of them. The man whom entered last? After showing signs of no response, a two Anbu would simply carry the man out, and leave him to stare blankly into the cosmos outside in the cold.

---

ACT 1: Complete

Results:

Characters Entered: 5 out of 7
Characters Remaining: 4 out of 7
Main Lore Acquired?: Yes
Hidden Lore Acquired?: No
Hidden/Lootable Items?: Yes
Hidden/Loot able Items Found: No
NPCs Met/Found: Captain Fujioka, Danbo of Bear AnBu, & Tazumi of Bear AnBu
Deaths?: Yes
Act Rewards Earned for Completion?: Yes

Enter: Act 2

CONCLUSION NOTE:
[This event thread will now continue in the board: Yomazu, Cold Night. I will be making another post soon to establish the upcoming setting as you all proceed to the next area in whatever way it is that you do so with your characters. All PLayers may continue to respond after this post or simply wait for my second response as GM. No posting order is needed, and multiple replies are allowed per player up to at least three if necessary. Consider this a fluff period as we transition into the next part of the event in Yomazu, and get the plot in full motion. I appreciate everyone here who has been willing to stick around thus far. Your rewards for completing Act 1 will be noted.]

---

(EDIT: Thread has been moved to Yomazu from Land of Snow)

[Claws of the Tundra]

"A Nearing Fight with Chaos"

Act 2

---

As the convoluted group of uniquely powerful beings set their sights out for Yomazu; the situation was progressing for better, and for worse on multiple fronts. The mixed forces of: Yomazu Capitol Police, Yukigakure Ninja, and in the deeper parts of the large city, a last second citizen made militia formed strictly in order to resist, and rebel the attacks on against the city.

Of course stranded, or straggling citizens caught up in the crossfire without a choice were out for their own survival with our without help. Some of the militia people even going as far as to deny falling under the orders of the Yomazu Police in fears of giving any opening for the terrorists to slip through, and cause even more mayhem personally in an effort to make breathing room.

The city, by all means is a battlefield with many key factors, and important players moving pieces, with the occasional singular force making waves in their own way. For the past week, the city has progressively turned from a simple capitol for people to enjoy the subtle pleasures of Yuki no Kuni down into a pooled up section of land that has basically been stripped of its peace of mind.

Some places becoming hot spots for disputes as the forces of Gridlock swept street after street they could get their hands on. The smoke from big building fires clouding the area above some parts of the city as their flames, turned any of its victims be it living organisms, or buildings into a charred memory.

This was a dark time for the city of Yomazu, however never before has a nation of people looked to stand tall against hardship looking to make them submit. Of course all these stories are either open for viewing, and interpretation or are hidden underneath the surface of circumstances of the crisis.

As each team member nears the city from wherever it is they have decided to travel from, one way or another they'd see the bare minimum of the current state of the city. The siege taking its toll on some of the citizens whom are still in shock even after having escaped the hot zones of conflict. Military and authority personnel of all sorts remained scattered in multiple different places all around the city as well as within.

Whoever was available at the time was doing something, while those needing rest or aid remained out of the picture until they could be of use in some way. The closer one gets to the perimeter of the city the more and more they'd be able to see the barricades, stationed forces, and possibly the outposts placed around the area.

When following the coordinates or, if necessary questioning for directions one would be able to find the large Outpost A stationed a decent distance away from the Main Front Gates of Yomazu. By all means this was like a mini headquarters which had multiple stations and sections set up for varying things. When attempting to enter its most likely that some sort of personnel would stop to question, but given their position in this mission it shouldn't be too hard to gain permission of access right?

And in regards to finding someone of importance of this establishment it may require a bit of prodding since this is all a rushed set up. During a high stress time, nothing was super obvious. The location that Captain Tiano was at was never specified within the settlement, and nothing will stand out unless one were to look for it in some way. Of course that is if one were to chose to do so anyway. So in a way; the skies the limit in terms of options and potential actions to be taken.

[Titan of Stone]

As Krystal touched down at the camp site a cursory glance did little to point anything out let alone for a foreigner. So the cat shrugged, let her shadows cloak her body, and howled (unsettling foe) once she had been taken note of the shadows would melt away before she cleared her throat.

"I'm looking for whose in charge, can anyone point them out?" Meanwhile the neko kept an eye on her surroundings, although since she had been in this area before she didnt feel quite as exposed in a comfort sense. She would also await the arrival of her squad mates if they decided this was important enough to take part in.

[Ranzu]

Zeki was walking at a quick pace across the road, following the directions given to him by the anbu captain. He had his umbrella out and open to stop any errant snowflakes from falling on him while walking toward the objective. Soon when the capital came into view of the Sadojin, so he started to take careful note of the things that could be seen from the road though it ultimately caused him to frown when the amount of chaos inflicted on the city became clear to him. He couldn't say dealing with rebels was new, stone had them in the dozens, but this amount of manpower brought forth was quite worrying.

If only they were given instructions to not mind causalities while dealing with rebels then this would be so much easier. But he knew how people in authority cared about their subjects so he wasn't counting on that particular solution to the problem making it through.

Soon he started to come up on the outpost proper itself. He heard a strange howling noise a few meters away from it while approaching which put him on guard for a bit but soon noticed Kyrstal standing near the outpost. Zeki would move within a meter of his kage, giving her a nod if Krystal looked back at him, and stood waiting her orders.

[Hoarfrost Imp]

Juniper had stopped along the way to admire the white. The snow capped plains and mountains. Yomazu wasn't going anywhere any time soon. Not if those rebels wanted to make significant headway. She came trudging up last, high stepping in deep snow enough so one might see it as struggling but really... she was fighting the urge to faceplant and make snow angels because Yomazu could fuck itself for falling so easily to a little uprising like this. They had ninja. They should be drilling this.

Before she was truly up to speed and caught up with the ground some howling reached her ears and she gave an annoyed look. Only could have bee one person. The area seeme don total lockdown and the tall woman was already on her way to asking questions when Juniper arrived but her invisible clone was off to her far, far right, taking a running start and jumping hard over the gate. (Jump good: 125)

The true aim was for the tallest building she could reach within 30 meters. Height was not a requirement. Whether she landed on it's side or a roof was all that mattered. (gate height+ 20 meters is her maximum elevation for jump.) While Clone Juni was off on her own exploration to learn things first hand the original stamped through the deep snow opposite the team by some meters.

To the very first group of patrolling soldiers she made herself known. "Aid from Village in Snow." Like a child with a badge of authority she held up that little token that had gotten her into the bunker not thinking about whether that was meant to be a secret all things considered. "Captain Tiano has given update of situation. Point out on map the hideouts of enemy leaders. Please. Thank you." Stiff tongued and awkward she waited for them to at least have their own local maps so she could know the place intimately.

Looking off to her left to catch the other two she made a face. Was she really going to have to interact with these individuals? One of them looked like she ripped out every page of the dictionary that said anything about subtle and the other was so busy with his umbrella... This was all the help Yuki could muster? This is precisely why Yuki handled it's own.

"Hurry! Hurry! Time of essence." She snapped those sharp little fingers of hers impatiently.

[Claws of the Tundra]

[In response to Krystal and Zeki]

As Krystal looked around hardly anyone who wasn't a citizen minding their own business really took note of her. Some officers, and guardsmen would take short glances from a distance. However nobody spoke out yet as most were either too busy or too tired to even bother talking amongst their own colleagues unless that was already happening. Let alone the fact some simply didn't know what she was here to do beyond help out. However that all changes the very second Krystal shifted her body into a shadowy visual then released a menacing howl.

This easily captured the attention of everyone in the vicinity, although given the nature of the action multiple people took this as a sudden appearance by a dark unidentified creature simply because they didn't notice Krystal standing there beforehand.

Some citizens naturally began to cower in fear/confusion of the worst; while others set out to protect loved ones, and people of value. The armed guards closest to the Tsuchikage were about to scramble into defensive maneuvers to protect the citizens. The AnBu hidden in various spots all over the compound now on super high alert as notes of a possible attack rise into attention. Questions circulated the minds of those who saw her before the howling even started. Why is the Tsuchikage acting in such a way? Did she fall under control of the enemy somehow? There wasn't much to go on, but whether she wanted it this way or not she got her attention.

However a collective sigh of relief or confused release of tension swept over the area as Krystal undid her wraith form simply to announce her intent and wishes. Although some of the personnel around had no idea who she was, or were too annoyed from the scare to care. There was in fact plenty of people who did recognize her for varying reasons. Thus weird things like this were less unsettling and more so just something they had to get used to in regards to the fabled Tsuchikage and her odd mannerisms.

After all her appearance alone is rather recognizable especially within a crowd. Now that all of that passed soft chatter began to flourish amongst folk as they viewed upon the Tsuchikage and her subordinate whom none of them knew at all. Then after that faded away the camp went back to doing what it was before, with only a few people now curious as to what is going on now that the Tsuchikage has returned to the field.

This does not mean nobody had heard her, or wished to answer the question. Within a few seconds after Krystal asked her question three AnBu shinobi representing the Cat division would have appeared before her Zeki together via the ways of shunshin. Two males, and one female to be exact. All three of average height and size. A standard team by the looks of it. The man standing in the middle of this group, calmly walked closer towards Krystal only to bow in formal respect of her presence before speaking.

"Lady Tsuchikage it is an honor to have you with us again. We are glad to finally have you here. Although by word of Captain Fujioka we were under the impression that the team rumored to be accompanying you would be...well larger than two in quantity. Up to seven at least. Are the others okay? Did something happen along the way here that we should report to the Yukikage about?" He'd say and ask in a clear and respectful voice a little skeptical as to why only the Tsuchikage and one other person arrived at Outpost A together.

[Defiant]

She had taken the most direct route to Yozamu, her knowledge of navigating the twisting roads and snow-hidden paths not slowing her pace in the slightest. Not that the young woman would have needed such skills to find the city, the smoke could be seen for miles. She knew the city and it's people, her countrymen, were in trouble, she had seen the pictures like they all had, but when the walls of the great city came into view, she paused in horror. "Holy fuck..." was all Gwyn could manage to say as her wide eyed gaze followed the trail of black ash from the sky to the source of it's emanation. Pouring smoke and glowing an ominous red, mixed with the screams and shouts that could be heard at even this distance, the walls of Yozamu seemed to be holding within it a gateway to hell. The sight made her blood boil. She gritted her teeth and clenched her fists as she tried to pry herself away from the sight, and shook her head to clear her mind of her imaginings of what truly lay within those walls. Her pace was faster now that she could see, even from outside the city, the situation was as serious as the Captain had claimed. She arrived at the Outpost and saw dozens of grim faces. Some were crying over what, or whom, they had lost. Some were seething with rage, some were so in shock Gwyn would have thought them dead. Most of them looked defeated and scared. She was entering the Outpost, wondering first how exactly she would find the Captain in all of this chaos. She considered going up to every person she saw and simply asking, but she pondered how many of these civilians would even have the ability to tell her what she wanted to know, if they knew in the first place. Before she was even ten paces into the Outpost proper, however, her quandary was solved. A ninja, most likely an AnBu, sharply demanded that she identify herself. Gwyn complied quickly by tapping her Belt Headband, choosing to not even bother introducing herself by name and instead simply stating her purpose for being there and jumping to what she needed. "Infiltration Team. Captain Tiano, where are they?" both of their time was valuable, and she didn't want to waste it with unnecessary words. Her eyes didn't linger on the ninja before her for any longer than it took them to ask their question, as she was scanning the people for any people that didn't look like their world had been burned down. Scanning for the captain, the other ninja, and for her other teammates.

[Claws of the Tundra]

[In response to Clone Juniper]

Outpost A was undoubtedly very heavily fortified, and possibly held the most people within its borders. Considering that it is a direct connection to the large Yomazu gate, this compound has significant importance on its hands. The front door by itself is designed to at best keep the average being with tools or special skills at their disposal from being able to slip pass its defenses once its set into lockdown mode. Thus it is old and was never expected to best the ninja or capable chakra molders of the world.

Although despite that this wall of defense scales across Yomazu's enter perimeter which funnels any entry through the outposts set up in case of situations like this. Its a plan that has been thought to hopefully never need use for as long as Yuki no Kuni doesn't get significant trouble. Therefore it is weak, and outdated. The Juni-Clone did not have trouble scaling over this, and landing on top of an old garage which was the tallest build within reach within thirty meters.

This garage now puts Clone Juniper two and a half stories high above Yomazu's floor. None of the guards looking over the inside section of the big gate, able to even suspect her let alone know something may have happened. The streets up ahead being a hard contrast to the camp on the other side, in terms of it being dead silent without a single sign of a other soul possibly within the area for miles. This...was the dead zone...

---

[In Response to Original Juniper]

Within the camp it would seem that other than Krystal not many were around to see anything treading along its borders with concealment along the lines of invisibility. And amongst those very little that were capable only one was actually actively doing so.

Not too far from the other two who entered first; a woman with long brown hair dressed in an all black attire with a katana longsword holstered across her back, while wearing a similarly colored mask stood idly by while watching the camp go about its business.

Next to her would be a colleague with a huge scroll strapped to his lower back horizontally. He'd be dressed quite casually with a simple tan jacket, some black trousers, and dark red scarf wrapped around his neck. These two were obviously ninja given their appearance general appearance, but if one had to make sure both of their headbands were out in the open for easy spotting. The young woman keeping hers around her waist, while the other had his in the standard placement around his forehead.

The woman whom seemed very relaxed and calm was actually rather finicky on the inside. She was personally on high alert, with her hidden Byakugan doujutsu activated simply to make sure nothing was out of place. It was her that ironically managed to spot the clone Juniper easily hop over the gate from the outside, which caught her attention rather easily. She started blankly in that direction seeming very puzzled as far as body language goes. Why would someone secretly hop INTO Yomazu? Before she could even begin to act on it something else stole her attention away from it.

Upon seeing Juniper approaching in their direction the woman would unintentionally jolted back in a surprised and shocked manner. Her colleague however seemed completely calm and relaxed with the child showing up, and making requests for enemy locations.

"W-what?! A Wolf Sigil Token? YOU out of all people have one of those?! What are you doing here Tiam-guh!" The woman began to question before her colleague roughly elbowed her in gut in means to cut her off right away, then leaned in closer to speak towards his unsettled teammate in a whispered tone of voice.

"Shut. Up. You paranoid idiot. She doesn't like it when you call her that, can't you chill out once you airhead?" He scolded before turning to quickly address Juniper hoping she wasn't upset by the unnecessary outburst.

"Haha, sorry about that Juniper, Saracha here is always acting like her panties are tied in a wad over everything these days. She's just uh...surprised because we never got word that you'd actually be coming along.

Guess the kage must be really upset to be sending you huh? Especially with that tokening your hand no less. That must mean you probably got let in on some top secret stuff the rest of us don't know about which means you're cooler than the rest of us now.

Don't go telling anyone those secrets for money hehe or we'll probably have to kill you." He'd joke playfully while waging a finger at Juniper.

He'd say all of this with a unworried attitude, and big friendly smile while he lowered himself down with his hands on his knees to face her better. Speaking to her in a playful tone beyond his usual. Even he didn't really take Juniper all that seriously, but he knew better than to act recklessly around her. At least he THINKS he knows.

Although he didn't mean to tell her that much about people not knowing she was coming. He tends to forget Tiamat isn't let in on a lot of things due to Lana DeThorne and many Yukigakure ninja not trusting the kage's judgement on the child, but then again a lot of secrets aren't told to people regarding Tiamat either. Its a complicated situation.

Attempting to bring the conversation back to business the kneeling young man no older than seventeen began to talk some more albeit much more seriously now. He suddenly got the feeling that teasing Juniper isn't the best thing to do right now.

"Eeh-Annnyway...I don't have a spare map on me, but I suppose me and Saracha can just share-"

"Wait a minute Han. Something doesn't add up. If you are on this strike with the rest of us Taim- uh I m-mean Ju-ni-per..., but have access to a Wolf Token. Shouldn't you already have a bit more information on hand? Why do you need a map with the hidden locations of Gridlock's leaders marked on them?

I mean me, Han, and well a lot of people don't know the exact details. Hell by the sounds of it we don't even have the same damn mission as you! Are you even supposed to be here? Tell the truth kid you aren't trying to go out there on your own are you?" Saracha would question sternly now suspecting that Juniper is lying to them. Her arms now firmly crossed as she stepped a little closer...

[Claws of the Tundra]

[In response to Gwynevir]

Yes from her perspective the situation truly is dire. The medical bay was busy, and personnel of all designations were scattered all over the place looking for something to in some of the more military oriented sectors. Faces of all kinds presented on all sorts of bodies, both awake and not. This was the kind of state Gridlock left the people not affiliated with them in.

She would be stopped and questioned, but not by AnBu. The AnBu were too busy lately to do something as silly as guard door. Which is funny since that is what they had to do more often before this whole crisis came about. The person that stopped Gwynevir, would be a simple Yomazu guardsman doing what they normally do, albeit with a bit more straightforward intuition. Her answer would suffice though.

Upon being asked a question of their own, the guard would speak quickly and clearly. Wanting to make sure he could get his eyes back to watching the surroundings as soon as possible. "Infiltration Team eh? Its about time. Tiano is in the command enter its a small single story building East this post, its right next to the makeshift bar, and all the other social tents and vendors. Good luck." He'd answer before stepping aside for Gwynevir to pass.

From here Gwynevir was free to go. In her search for well...anybody worth looking at the first sighting she'd be able to make was Krystal and Zeki whom were barely a few meters ahead of her somehow. She'd arrive just after the AnBu had asked his question to them. Not too far off from them would be Juniper who looked to be speaking with some Yukigakure ninja herself. So by the looks of it the team was all here.

[Defiant]

Gwyn's eyes lit up. "Next to the bar? Got it, cheers," She walked past the dutiful and helpful man and entered the Outpost proper. The man's words rolled around in her head. To another they might have been simple directions but to Gwyn, this was a test of her ability to overcome her urges and put the greater good above herself. She walked to the social area of the Outpost, striding with purpose right past her two would-be teammates. Her eyes darted to the dejected expressions of the civilians, focusing on each one, trying to use their pain to quell her desire to drink. When she stood outside of the small building, however, she found that her feet would not bring her inside. She looked to her left, at the makeshift bar, and then back to the entrance of the Command Center. "Hmm..." Gwyn's face held a scowl and she grumbled trying to debate whether or not she should go straight into the Center. Her arms were folded across her chest, and her foot tapped the snow packed ground. "...Damn it." One shot couldn't hurt. It would ease her nerves, she told herself as if she was nervous. It would focus her mind, she lied. It would kill a bit of time before the other members found their way here. She was always good at coming up with excuses for a drink. Gwyn quickly rushed into the bar, and ordered a small mug of Vodka. She had considered of just getting a single shot, but she knew herself well enough, and knew that one shot would not be enough. She dropped the Ryo needed onto the simple bar, and too up the mug, and drank deeply and quickly. The cold liquid burned and warmed her as it went down, and she felt the rush hit her almost immediately as she slammed the mug down on the table and left the bar as suddenly and swiftly as she had entered. She left the bar and ran over to the entrance of the Command Center, but hesitated just before opening the door. She took a deep breath. And then another. And then looked back to the bar. "Hmm." 'Don't do it.' Gwyn turned the nob to the command center and stepped in. Buying Vodka (Distilled Spirits) Rank: "B" Type: Main, Ingestibles, Alcohol Effect: Vodka is a form of potent, distilled spirits that is derived from fermented potatoes. Special: --- Drawback: --- Description: A distilled spirits alcohol produced with the distilling skill. Typically found in civilizations, cold climates. Vodka is a form of potent, distilled spirits that is derived from fermented potatoes. This resulting alcohol is clear in color and may be drunk alone or as an ingredient to a mixed drink. Quite often it is reasonably common to find vodka flavored with a bit of lemon as well. Vodka is a pretty direct form of spirits. The flavor is mostly that of the alcohol itself, and it can warm the body and bones on a cold winter's night. As such, various individuals that live in cooler regions favor vodka. Strength: 12; Serving Size: Small Mug Ingredients 4 large pitchers of potatoes. Limit: These types of items may be bought inside any Alchemist Shop. Cost: 18,000 Ryo Each. Serving Size Cost: 225 Ryo Each. Alcohol Threshold of 14 (10+(2x2 Indomitable Fortitude). 2 shots of Vodka (12 AU each, total 24 AU) Gwyn is now Tipsy

[Hoarfrost Imp]

(Clone Juniper)

Upon landing she was quick to stealthily scale the building down ten meters to avoid detection, clinging to the side of structure with her arms and legs and unfurling the extra pair from underneath to cast a Sonar jutsu. 100x100 meters were blueprinted, pinging all solid objects, a mental map of the town for as far as the jutsu reached.

In tandem she tuned her ears with a jutsu to amplify low sounds much, much higher. Within 50 meters any noise that carried on the wind or otherwise was amped up another volume level. Her main idea was how to get to the targets and what was around her she could use and identify.

___________________________________________

(OJ)

There was enthusiasm in her body language but as soon she got idea in her head things might go smooth? The stabbed a hole in her mood and all that jubilant adrenaline curdled. Her mouth pursed into a tight line and her whole face drew an emotionless blank. Bigots. So this is what the village still taught their people? What they still thought of her? The young boy probably thought kneeling was helpful to their cause, put them on the same level. It only infuriated her further and inside her organs felt like they harbored acid and hellfire.

When the woman squared up to walk her way Juniper walked her way. The y'la spirit that danced around her constantly seemed appeased at an offering of chakra and though the woman might be able to see it, the shift of her chakra it was not by her means of casting by the Y'la spirit.

Expelling it's own chakra and her offering of it it shifted the world and for whatever ungodly reason the woman might have actually fallen. (43 save +2 from focused Mal: 45) (-4 to all saves in 3 meters) The force of the fall driven by dreadful escalation would have been hard enough to nauseate and debilitate, leaving her inept to do more than make a movement to maybe stand but unable to perform attacks, techniques or anything that required attention. She looked good down there in the dirt like a pig.

"Careful." Her little face was screwed up tight, eyes beady with rage but it was the quiet anger that made her dangerous. When she was most focused. Looking at the boy she pointed to the woman. Downed or not. "Does she have map?" She took a step forward slightly as if to suggest... she would check her for it herself- perhaps not something they wanted?

"Give map. Am better off alone. You two are... stupid." Her little claws scratched her palms bloody and she grit her teeth to keep from exploding. "Give. Map. ]Now."

[Titan of Stone]

Given the circumstance Krystal didn't really care who was frightened by her presence, if they didn't have the wherewithal to judge she wasn't threatening them it was their problem. Even as some pulled weapons she made no move of hostility other than slight glances and warnings until a team of AnBu appeared before her which made her raise an eyebrow before they spoke up addressing her as the Tsuchikage which made her sigh slightly. Zeki's arrival eased her nerves about the situation but as the AnBu questioned her about their group she shrugged.

"Hell if I know, one showed up to the meeting and got cold feet, aside from Zeki, the others wanna play badass." Krystal commented quietly figuring it was better than to let the whole outpost know that the people hired wanted to go off on their own. "So gonna lead us in?"

[Jotün Kamyuja]

The chilling morning silence was broken by the sound of running, the young male had a concerned look on his face as he raced full speed through the snowy tundra, his legs kicking up pillars of snow with the unnatural speeds at which they carried him. Smoke was visible in the distance, and at some point a blood-curdling howl could be heard coming from the supposed direction of the chaos-ridden Outpost A.

"Shit, this looks bad, I hope i'm not too late..." The male mused to himself, fully prepared to deal with whatever he had to upon arriving in Yomazu. With him he would have his Greatsword sheathed at his side and his Heavy Shield strapped to his back, wearing a black shirt with matching shoes and trousers, and a blood red hooded cloak for some much needed color. 

Approaching the area the blonde would skid to a sudden stop, his eyes darting around the outpost to make sense of the situation, there where citizens in shock and medical teams rushing to aid the wounded, with shinobi scattered all over the place doing god knows what, where these clowns planning on staying parked in front of the city all day? If the ninja did nothing then he would have to take matters into his own hands.

But he only had rumours, and incomplete information could only get him so far, all he really knew was that the city was under lockdown over internal matters. He realised gaining information wouldn't be easy, anyone could tell the boy was no older then 13 or maybe 14, but that had never stopped him before "Hey you! What's going on here? What happened?" He asked, approaching a guard with his assistants headband in hand to prove he was with the military. 

[Claws of the Tundra]

Post 1 of 2

Hoarfrost Imp

{Response to Juniper & Clone Juniper}

---

(OJ)

There has always a clear disconnect between Juniper and the hidden village. Something so interesting as this would be quite the juicy investigation for outsiders. The two chuunin interacting with Tiamat as they call her, wouldn’t even be suspecting the move she’d make on them. At least not in time enough to defend themselves properly.

The first to even sense this, would be the Hyuuga. Her whole body felt almost haunted by a nearby figure of pure misdeeds. Her activated Byakugan had a front row seat at both the dancing Y’la and Juniper’s irregular chakra signatures.

The pure aura of angry flames that surrounded the child in spirit form which is invisible to the naked eye, was far too intense for the Hyuuga to believe. Thus when she approached the child, she wouldn’t be able to face her with such authority.

Instead it would be creeping fear, and confusion that riddled her senses as this meer child possessed a chakra signature far greater than her own, Han’s or even the sensei’s. It was immeasurable in such a short notice, the Hyuuga if she didn’t know better would not be above using her gentle fist to outright seal Juniper’s chakra points right now.

Perhaps if the Hyuuga wasn’t unprepared, and didn’t get sidetracked she would be able to fight this next thing, but that wouldn’t be the case. As planned the masked Hyuuga seemingly fell down and collided with the ground in such a way it knocked the wind right out of her lungs. This sudden turn of events made Han whom was the male standing next to her literally back track a few steps in surprise.

After all he knows his teammate to be rather nimble and balanced on her feet, and to fall like this especially so roughly is not becoming of her. “S-....Saracha? Wha-?” He’d mutter out of confusion. She...she took Saracha down like a sack of bricks without touching her...what the hell was that? He’d question is his thoughts while staring blankly at Juniper.

The downed Hyuuga could only respond with an agonized groan, and gasped as she fought her body to get air back in her system which only happened naturally after at least six seconds of discomfort. Even then she remained on the ground hugging her abdomen in pain as she tried hard to get some strength back in her legs, but she couldn’t muster that kind of fortitude yet.

Han on the other hand would be staring at Juniper directly. He had no intentions of making rash decisions let alone decisions at all with her around. So her words, and demands would be given his full compliance. “Y-eah it's in her left pocket.” He’d answer to her first question. Once she demanded things much more loudly however, that is when more people in the distance began to take notice. Although nobody of Yukigakure was making any effort to get involved. AnBu of course were watching, and poised ready to subdue the child if needed. Han was hesitant to act, but his teammate out of all people would interject. Albeit still with a pained voice. “Give her what she wants Han its okay. We’ll...ngh...just have to make do with sharing.” she’d say. And with that Han simply nodded and complied with Saracha’s request. In which he’d retrieve the map from Saracha’s left pocket which was on a normal sized blue colored scroll, with the title “Confidential” written on it in bold by a paper tied to the scroll by a black ribbon. Once retrieved Han would hold it out for Juniper to take.

---

[Hidden Items successfully found]
X1 Scroll Acquired (Overwatch Team’s Map Scroll)
X1 Page of a notebook (Confidential Note??)

[Claws of the Tundra]

Post 2 0f 2

(CJ)

From where she is right now, Juniper’s ping didn’t get too much in terms of intel. At least as far as targets. This would be made obvious the farther the scan went until eventually reaching its maximum distance in the full 100x100 meter range. The entrance of Yomazu normally bustling, and the first few parts of a visitors taste in the city life, is now the first look into what one would call a deadzone.

A large slightly unhinged street sign hung vertically from its perch off to the side of the paved road near the cloned Juniper. It would take only a simple tilt of the head, or a bit of reading to see that the sign said: “District 1A” on it. The tall metal post that held this barely stable sign, had three more hinges clamped on it, but the signs those hinges held all have been torn right off. Which means the one claiming the area Juniper was in is the only survivor.

All solid objects ranged from normal things like buildings, signs, light poles, and so on. None of the buildings here had people in them. Why? Well all of these buildings by one way or another had been damaged. The type of damage and the means of how it came about remains unclear to the multi-armed chuunin. The road ahead, was littered by trash, rubble, and burn marks in the here and there. This whole street never changes in scenery for many blocks down. However even from where Juniper is, one can make out what looks to be a structure that cuts across the horizon of the street connecting one end of the street to the other. Something which could best be assumed to be a blockade of some sort. However even then, there would be no people there…

One would have to go beyond that somewhat tall barrier, or around it to see anything else.

---

District 1A

SPOILER: Click to show

Blockade 1A (Outside Rim)

SPOILER: Click to show

[Claws of the Tundra]

Defiant

{Response to Gwyn}

---

Business at the bar was booming. For reasons that may be obvious to those that know a thing or two about what some people use alcohol for. Gwynevir of course didn’t take very long in being one of those people whom have visited the bar. Eleven people in total were currently hanging around this makeshift pub. Out of that grouping it wouldn’t be hard to notice that nine were regular civilians. Four of the nine civilians seemed to be one of the few that were not riddled with shock or drained of emotion, which is clear given that the other five seemed distant, and or in sorrow.

The other two patrons were not civilians, and sat next to each other on the right side of the row of five stools set up for customers. The remaining three stools were actually open for the taking. The one on the left was another Yomazu Officer which shouldn’t be anything new as he had the same armour and padding as everyone else. The one on the right of him, was actually an orange haired woman outfitted in clothing that is nothing like the officers of Yomazu, or some of the Yukigakure ninja walking around.

Her attire had much more; exurban properties. An appearance fit for a warrior of a different time, or at least something other than the ones the shinobi world would be familiar with, even with its occasional oddities. This woman definitely seemed much different than everyone else here. Though she looked trained, and ready for a fight at any time, especially with the chained one handed axe she had placed right at her side. Dark purple markings can be noticed on her body in multiple places, which given the track record may mean she is an Inuzuka? However that sort of answer doesn’t look to be noticeable by glance.

Regardless of all this Gwyn would be able to get her two shots of vodka without issue from the barkeep. So long as she didn’t do anything else beforehand or after that is.

---

Otherwise Gwynevir would be able to reach and eventually enter the command center with ease. Once inside she’d be able to look around the somewhat spacious building with ease. The first room that was connected to the door she entered from led her into what could be best described as a terminal. Not room that is simply dedicated to leading to other rooms. Luckily for Gwyn these other rooms were clearly labeled. Not many staff members were out and about in here, which means they were either busy outside somewhere or simply out of view from within the building. However with simple observation one could notice three distinct sections of the command center being named:

The Command Station (front)
The Armoury (right)
The Mess Hall (left)

However not much searching would need to go on as a distinctly loud voice began to emit from the open arch way of the station in the front. The voice belonged to a man whom seemed to be approaching the Terminal area more and more by the second. He sounded to be talking to someone, not exactly rudely or by means of an argument, but it was in a semi-serious tone of voice. Eventually the voice would have the corresponding face it belonged to revealed. Which...may be off putting to Gwynevir as it would actually belong to the blonde charismatic AnBu Falcon leader himself: Captain Tiano.

The appearance of the captain matched the description the guard gave the Genin all the way down to the white band Tiano likes to have around his left arm particularly around his bicep. A falcon insignia printed on it just like the guard said. The captain’s mask was placed on the side of his head, which left his face and identity in full view of Gwynevir as he looked to be talking to someone on the radio which he had held in his gloved hands. From her distance she wouldn’t be able to hear the voice from the radio clearly enough. Not without trying at least. Tiano’s however was loud and clear.

“Yes the preparations you order are all in running condition I am just waiting still.

Yes I know.

Okay I’ll make a report as soon as I can, but you have to understand that I am still waiting.” In the middle of this Tiano would look over slightly to his right and immediately notice Gwyn from where she entered the building in which he waved her over and began to smirk. “Oh wait, nevermind; they arrived just now...

What?

Yes all of them give or take the missing faces we were already informed of- No-no it's fine good bye now. Don’t worry I have everthing under control.” *click*

“She-eeeesh. I’ll have to handle that later. Uh. Anyway what's up kid? I think I know your face enough to get a name...uuuuh. Gwane is it? Eh doesn't matter its good to see you Gwane I'm glad you finally made it.

Before you ask yes I am Captain Tiano I will be giving you a tiiiiny bit more intel and some gear before you and your team go out there and bust some skulls. I was beginning to think you got cold feet, or maybe you all wanted to be super cool and got super enthusiastic and decided to run off to go in without any further intel.

Hahahaha...eeh...but no seriously where in the flying monkey shit is your team Gwane? Is everything okay?” He would say very charismatic and excited at first before shifting into a somewhat unsure ease as to why Gwyn came by herself. Not because he’d be in trouble of course not. That wouldn’t be a factor at all...

[Claws of the Tundra]

Ranzu & Titan of Stone

[Response to Zeki and Krystal}

---

This is as straightforward as it gets from here. Despite her entrance the Tsuchikage did have some form of command here whom was given to her by the Yukikage. So the people were made quick to know her face when they see it before being deployed out here, by both the kage of snow, and Chief Watanabe. Other than that the other way people know Krystal is through rumors that get spread around in the background. This means matter what the reasoning is the Tsuchikage has some established reputation here in this country, and since she has become a close companion of the Yukikage she gets some special treatment here and there.

The AnBu she was speaking with didn't ask anymore questions after she gave her reply. He didn't want to waste everyone's time thus he simply complied to lead Zeki and Krystal to where they wanna go to meet the one in charge as Krystal put it earlier. "Of course, we'll be right there Lady Tsuchikage. You two go on and head back to the posts you've been assigned to. I'll catch up after I notify Captain Lenox that the plans are ready to be launched." He'd order before turning his focus back on the kage of Stone and the man accompanying her.

With the other two going about their business the AnBu who is now leading them, would begin the short trip with decent haste. Nothing too fast as to leave them behind of course, but nothing too slow as if to act like they aren't dealing with a crisis at the moment. The scenery didn't change much as this was a compound after all. They'd inevitably pass the bar upon finally reaching the Command Center. Its here that they would meet Captain Tiano whom by now had already started talking to Gwynevir.

---

[Additional Information obtained:]
NPC Name: Captain Lenox??

[Claws of the Tundra]

Jotün Kamyuja

{Response for Jotun/Takeshi}

---

The guard Jotun called out to panned his attention slightly to look at the young boy speaking to him. His focused expression hardly changed at first as he figured its simply another one of the confused youths trying to ask questions about a situation it would be safer to stay out of. Though upon closer inspection...this one is older than the rest. Not by much really, but enough to probably be able to bug someone else besides the guard without much trouble. At least that is what the guard hopes.

This perspective suddenly changed when the guard then spotted the assistants headband in the kids hand. Yes the big weaponry is a factor too, but that headband out of all things held a lot more weight than Jotun/Takeshi may have anticipated. Because of this the guard's thoughts began to run rampant.

'Really? He has one of those? The kid can't be any older than fifteen at least. These ninja folk are crazy giving someone so young access into something like this. I thought only people like Lana could get those... He questioned in the safety of his head. However upon seeing that he realized that he'd have to move out of the way now, and so he responded a bit differently than what he was planning to do before hand.'

"Uh, the capitol city is in a lot of trouble. Some weirdos calling themselves Gridlock basically ransacked and took the whole damn place hostage. Its ridiculous to consider possible I know, but its happening. Not for long though. Turns out the Yukikage responded really quickly I didn't believe my buddies when they told me, but its true. Came just in time too.

Seems these ninja types aren't completely having their thumbs in there asses after all. Uh anyway go on in kid I am sure somebody will direct you to do some good if that is a legit headband you got on you. Do Yuki and Yomazu proud kid. I sure wish I could be doing more than guard duty right now..." And just like that, the guard stood aside for Jotun to pass through.