Revival of the Avatars [Event]

[~Emi~]

To the gate

T

he replies he had received wasn't really what he had expected from someone with so much inside information. But he figured that it could be because there really wasn't that much to know, just like Loki had said. To learn how to navigate the chaos offer was however much more promising, but at that moment he wasn't sure if he'd simply pay her or reveal the information. Because even though he rarely wanted to withhold information from people that were solely searching for it, he wasn't sure if the Bifrost was any safe thing to share. When the meeting seemed to be up and Zuruel and Lady had said what they needed to say, he firstly answered Zuruel.

Sure, but you have to promise me to not take that ring off or leave the encampment.

Then he whispered to Lady.

Do not worry, if he doesn't find the possible trickster, his frustration which can still exist in a calm mind will be most useful later on. Also, we can probably use the time more effective if he doesn't distract us.

Emi then offered his arm in a attempt to lighten up her mood a little with some unnecessary high etiquette. Due to his lack of social experience he only hoped that it was something acceptable in that situation and would make her happy.

shall we?

The shopping was quite quickly finished as they really didn't need more than essential things to make sure that they could survive.

Let me pay for this will you?

To feel more presentable, Emi took a few minutes of the hour to take a swim. There had been some bad experiences in his past that made him believe that there would be very varied heat levels in the other dimensions. But he then brought Lady over to the rendezvous point at the gate where several people already had gathered. To make sure that he would be able to get the guides attention, he would place himself in the front end of the group while taking a seat on a stone. If he ever would be able to steal a few seconds from Loki, he would say to her.

The knowledge will be yours if I am to find it. I also wouldn't mind trade further discovered information, as this adventure will be most... insightful

Emi then took a large bite of his chocolate bar and awaited the journey to begin.

Buying:
Life water x 6 = 21'996
Military ration pill x 10 = 10'530
Chocolate bar x 9 = 4'500
Pack, butt x 1 = 2'000

[AMATERASU]

I left ahead of the nice boy who was still awaiting the advice of others. Outside, the camp was completely transformed. Nex's work, I assumed.

There was just a couple of purchases I wanted to make, quickly. A big, fancy robe in my colors would allow me to actually carry some stuff with me since my current outfit didn't allow for pockets, and also a nice sarashi to restrict the bouncing of my chest some while we hiked.

At another facility, I'd grab a few plenty stones to keep us fed for up to a couple of weeks. Also a stone water skin. I kept it empty though. I didn't need to carry water with these plenty stones after all. Instead, I'd take it to where alchohol was served and get a full 10 pints of rice wine sake. That should keep my going for a couple days at least. I shifted my obi to wrap around the skin like a belt to carry it.

The last thing I needed was a flashlight and some navigation tools, just in case my light magic didn't work for some reason. Better safe than sorry.

Satisfied, I made my way to the north gate. Communication tools wouldnt be needed as long as I had my witch watch.

"So you mind showing me how to do the thing too? Kinda curious if I can pull it off. I've never actually had a problem with the Tree before, so why would it be acting up now? Eh, more reason to kick out the intruders."

---

Robe
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Slot Holder, 0 Slots, 
Effect: A robe is a loose-fitting outer garment. Unlike garments described as capes or cloaks, robes usually have sleeves.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A gown worn as part of the academic regalia of faculty or students, especially for ceremonial occasions, such as a convocations, congregations or graduations. A gown worn as part of the attire of a judge or barrister. A wide variety of long, flowing religious dress including pulpit robes and the robes worn by various types of monks. A gown worn as part of the official dress of a peer or royalty. Robes give a +10 to Sleight of Hand when worn. Robes can have special straps stitched in place, allowing the Robe to stay fluid and not be bogged down. 1 Robe may have up to 10 of these Straps. Each Strap may have up to 5 Half Pouches stitched in to keep objects inside.
Limit: These type of items may be bought inside any Tailor Shop.
Cost: 1,000 Ryo Each.

Courtier's Clothing
Rank: "B"
Type: Main, Slot Holder, 0 per Slot, Clothing
Effect: Clothing of stature. Those who are wealthy and that of noble ability tend to wear Courtier's Clothing.
Special: ---
Drawback: Cannot be used with Fire-Resistant Clothing and Peasant Clothing.
Description: Courtier's clothing is clothing tailored into whatever fashion happens to be current in front of nobles of that region. Anyone trying to influence nobles or courtiers while wearing street dress will have a hard time of it (-10 penalty on Charisma skill checks to influence such individuals). User must wear a complete outfit to not have any penalties to Charisma skills (shirt, pants, boots). If the user is wearing a Courtier's outfit while without jewelry (Semi-Precious to True Gems), the user will look like an out-of-place commoner.
Limit: These type of items may be bought inside any Tailor Shop.
Cost: +300% to Base Ryo per Article of Clothing.

Pouch, Utility x2
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Slot Holder, 2 Slots, Pouch
Effect: A long sized pouch capable of holding 2 slots of items of 8 inches in length.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Picture A leather, cloth, wooden material case that can easily hold 2 Scrolls. The Dimensions are 8 inches in height, 5 inches width and 2.5 inches in depth. This pouch is specifically designed for items with lengths longer than 4 inches. These pouches are primarily meant for scrolls, kunai, knives, senbon and other items with similar lengths. Utility Pouches may be sold individually and attached to belts or other strapped objects, or may be sold as part of Basic Clothing. Multiple Pouches may be purchased connected together.
Limit: These type of items may be bought inside any Tailor Shop.
Cost: 400 Ryo Each.

Shirt
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Slot Holder, 0 Slots, Clothing
Effect: Shirts are clothing worn over the chest of a user's character.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Shirts come in many different styles and colors. A shirt is a cloth garment for the upper body. Originally an undergarment worn exclusively by men and women it has become a catch-all term for a broad variety of upper-body garments and undergarments. In some countries a shirt is more specifically a garment with a collar, sleeves with cuffs, and a full vertical opening with buttons or snaps. A shirt can also be worn with a necktie under the shirt collar. Shirts have no slots and they have no areas to carry pouches.
Limit: These type of items may be bought inside any Tailor Shop.
Cost: 500 Ryo Each.

Plenty Stone x15
Rank: "A"
Type: Secondary, 15 per Slot, Harnessed Gem
Effect: A gem capable of producing food for rations.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Equipment Type: Slotless. Chalcedony is a variety of quartz and comes in many varieties. It makes a good ornamental stone and is a minor gemstone. One variety is known as dendritic because of the veinlike structures that run through the mineral. The natural Alchemy of dendritic chalcedony has been known since the dawn of civilization. Since then the plenty stone has been saving people from starvation. The natural Alchemy in the stone is harnessed by carving the chalcedony into the form of a plate. When the plate is broken it produces food and water enough to feed 15 medium-size humanoids for 24 hours. The food is simple and nourishing, though it may lack some flavor. The water is as pure as rainwater. The food decays after 24 hours, while the water can last 48 hours. Casting purify food and water on the food preserves it for another 24 hours. Adventurers have found the plenty stone a useful item to carry since it is easier to carry than rations.
Ingredients: 1 large Chalcedony (240 Ryo).
Limit: These types of items may be bought inside any Alchemy Shop.
Cost: 475 Ryo

Stone Waterskin
Rank: "S"
Type: Secondary, Main, Harnessed Gem
Effect: A material cut into a waterskin, allowing the user to hold 10 times normal liquids.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Equipment Type: Slotless. The mineral alchemist Landis Penn lived in a city at the edge of a vast desert. The city was known for two things: being the last stop for anyone journeying across the desert, and a source of fine pottery. The pottery was crafted from a large clay deposit located near the city. Landis started his career as a potter and worked with the clay for many years. One day he was given a clump of clay that acted strangely when he worked it. Intrigued, Landis examined this clay and discovered that it came from a different clay layer than the normal pottery clay. Landis took this new clay and worked with it for over a year, studying alchemical texts and experimenting with different ways of crafting it. Finally Landis perfected his technique and crafted the first stone waterskin. The stone waterskin is just that, a waterskin that has been carved and fired in clay. It is often adorned with colored glazes in intricate patterns. To create the stone waterskin the mineral alchemist must take a source of bentonite clay and mold it into the shape of a waterskin. The clay is baked in a special kilnusing alchemically treated wood. This is necessary to create the high heat necessary to give the stone waterskin its property. Once fired and finished, the stone waterskin can absorb 10 times its volume with water. A typical water skin holds 1 pint of water. The stone waterskin can hold 10 water skins of water for the same weight carried. 
Ingredients: 1 super giant Iolite (600 Ryo).
Limit: These types of items may be bought inside any Alchemy Shop.
Cost: 3,000 Ryo

Sake (Wine) x40 standard-shots
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Ingestibles, Alcohol
Effect: Sake is a powerful, alcoholic drink that is created from fermented rice.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A wine alcohol produced with the winemaking skill. Typically found in marshes, any area with adequate amounts of rice beds. Sake is a powerful, alcoholic drink that is created from fermented rice. Though technically considered to be a wine, sake is actually very similar to distilled spirits in many ways. Usually this beverage is clear and may be served warm. Sake is hard and quick. Not particularly sweet or fruity like a wine; sake is not particularly bad in flavor either. Strength: 5; Serving Size: Standard-Shot
Ingredients 4 and 1/2 large pitchers of rice.
Limit: These types of items may be bought inside any Alchemist Shop.
Cost: 8,100 Ryo Each. Serving Size Cost: 51 Ryo Each.

Flashlight, Standard (Overview)
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 4 per Slot, Gadget, Survival, Light
Effect: A portable light source.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Flashlights come in a wide variety of sizes and quality levels. Those covered here are professional, heavy-duty models, rugged enough to withstand the rigors of modern adventuring. Flashlights negate penalties for darkness within their illuminated areas. This heavy metal flashlight projects a beam 30 feet long and 15 feet across at its end. It increases the light level in the area beyond its initial cone by one step, out to 60 feet long and 30 feet wide. It does not increase the light level in normal light or bright light. A flashlight has no effect in areas of Chakra darkness.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Gadget Shop.
Cost: 6,000 Ryo per Slot, or 1,500 Ryo Each.

Compass (Overview)
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 10 per Slot, Gadget, Survival, Compass
Effect: A compass is a navigational instrument for determining direction relative to the Earth's magnetic poles.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A compass relies on the Earth's magnetic field to determine the direction of magnetic north. A compass grants its user a +10 circumstance bonus to Direction Sense checks.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Gadget Shop.
Cost: 5,000 Ryo per Slot, or 500 Ryo Each

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

[Madame Loki]

all transactions completed.

[Madame Loki]

The Guide Arrives 2: Electric Boogaloo

The meeting time for everyone to gather to the Northern gate had arrived. It seemed that a few where not here yet, but neither was their guide. However, the group would have to wait long. Loki's group soon made their way over towards the others. Although compared to Jormungandr and the Large Earth Hound, Loki and Nex had taken quite the transformation. Nex wasn't much different, other than her 9 tails had being reduced to 1 and it wasn't nearly as fluffy as the previous Nine had been. Not only that, but her short dress was now a skin tight, what appeared to be Leather, Catsuit. Although that catsuit was mostly covered by The Shawl of the Caretaker that she wore over it.

The Shawl was hooded, with only her fox ears poking out of the up of the hood through holes. Loki walked out in front of the group, looking almost completely different than she was earlier. Before she seemed more like a spoiled little princess, aching for adventure. Now her outfit screamed someone who lived and dwelt in the wilds for most of their life. She was going on an adventure to an unknown land, she needed clothing that she could move in. While these clothes did prove to be more revealing, they were far easier for her to maneuver in.   

Her bottoms where a rough pair of black pants, with what looked to be sturdy boots. the pants had leather strapping hanging off the waist. Her  top was a gray cotton string bra, this was wrapped in the purple hooded Shawl. Her hood was up covering her head, and out of the side of of the hood, two pointed elven ears that she had hidden well before revealed themselves. She did not have her playful expression, but a piercing determined gazed replaced it. For her clearly playtime was over and it was time for business.  Behind her floated not only her staff from earlier but an odd mirror as well.

Her golden eyes scanned the group, and she spotted Miku. As she headed towards her she heard the blue one speak to her. She stopped in her tracks, and nodded at him. She motioned at Jormungandr who pulled out a scroll and handed it to the Blue one. "Inside there is the method how to open a path. Whether you think you can do it remains to be seen, but even if you can't I trust you won't break the arrangement. Also as long as you are with  Lady or Zuruel, contacting with me won't be hard." Loki said as she continued her walk over to Miku. She didn't necessarily trust this blue one, but he seemed rather close with Zuruel and Lady. If that was the case, she didn't have to worry about getting any information that group gathered. Once she with Miku, she pointed at the Mirror floating behind her saying,

"I have a feeling this belongs to you. I found it in one of the Mummy's shop, completely trashed. I reconstructed it, and made it stronger. You're welcome." Loki then pulled at a box and then a bag, also handing them over to Miku. Inside the box was a ring, the bag and assortment of gems, and a small crown.

"It also came to my attention that I never gave you any welcoming gifts, so these ought to make up for that. Shamed to say, I couldn't finish making all the gems I wanted within the hour. I'm not a god, yet. So these will have to do for now. " Loki half joked as she gave the items to Miku, and left her to sort them out. She was a smart girl, and she left a list inside describing what each one did. She needed to get these things to Miku. She was gifted at Magic, but she wasn't a fighter, the more she had available to her to better off she'd be. But this was just about the limit of what she could do for her. Loki turned her attention back towards to group to see if any stranglers had made their way there. She wasn't going to wait for anyone, whether they arrived are not was of no concern to her. She then got straight to the point,

"If there is anyone else who wants the method speak up now, with your form of payment. Also, did you lot pick out a leader for this little adventure? As I said before, I'm just the guide. So... Mr or Ms. Leader please step forward, and lead the way. The Big ass Tree is that way." Loki said as she lightly spread her arms open waiting either for the leader to step forward, not bothering to actually point at the giant tree that towered in the background for all to see. She had given them everything she was willing to at the moment. The next steps would rely completely on them. She did not show it on her face, but she was quite looking forward to seeing the shit show of deciding a leader play out. So many egos and enemies, it was ripe for parody. At least, Loki's idea of it.

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Opening a path Method requirements: Will be sending to Emi Via PM


Items given to Kurama: Will Send in PM



Next Deadline is Monday 21:00 C-box

[Hoarfrost Imp]

While Original juniper sat back in the tent with Himi she tugged her hand to encourage her to leave and pull her over towards the meeting area, by force if need be.

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

Clone Juniper ran off to the shop with their little money in tow, smacking her monies on the counter and rattling, while still invisible mind you, of all the things that she needed.

Blue Eyed Gem - 5% + 4% luck to find
Cost: 84,000 Ryo (42,000)

Rabbits Foot - 5% + 4% luck to find
Cost: 80,000 ryo (40,000)

Military Ration Pill x 10 = 10'530 ryo

Stone Waterskin: 3000 ryo

And once the relative items were taken and received, she ran off towards the meeting gate.

(Total: 95,530)

[Madame Loki]

Didn't find Blue Eyed Gem or Rabbit's foot. Transaction complete.

[Skulking Shinzu]

The stealthy Zuruel darted around the room with supernatural determination and focus. Scouring every inch, he made an almost mad brute-force attempt at tracking down this other trickster. He might have continued the entire hour too, if not for Emi’s ring. Unable to ignore the alluring call of calm, the Kedoin ceased his attempt before taking a moment to ponder. Was there actually a trickster hidden away in the area? The prank during Loki’s first announcement could have been carried out by any Bard in the group. Perhaps even by one of Loki’s children. There didn’t seem to be enough information to conclude who possessed Bard abilities and who didn’t. Besides, could he really rely on Loki’s confirmation? She could have easily made up the story about the trickster and provoked the fox girl into striking empty air with her magic.

If he were to rely on logic fuelled by the calm granted by Emi’s ring, he was achieving nothing by remaining in the manor. “Besides, the so-called trickster may have already exited the tent some time ago… I’ll just have to hone my senses more once all this nonsense is over.” Invisibly nodding to himself, the Kedoin would exit directly behind the next person to leave to ensure that he didn’t risk giving away his position by interacting with any doors or objects. He then silently made his way over to the nearest vendor, before revealing himself to place an order of fifteen Plenty Stones and some waterskins, which were promptly tucked away into the strange ‘pocket’ underneath the top of his shirt, before making his way to the North gate. As easy as it would have been locking onto the seal on Lady and teleporting to her, there were certain advantages in scouting out the camp and its inhabitants along the way.

---

Lady carefully took in all the information around her, including the gifts handed to the fox-eared girl. She knew how valuable information was to Zuruel. She needed to make sure that she stayed ever-observant to each detail that passed so that she could relay it back to him once he eventually appeared. However, while doing this, one key thing Loki uttered immediately caught the shadowy canine’s attention. “Me too!” She telepathically cried out to Loki before the chance would slip by. “I’d like to learn the method too… Just in case. Being your familiar, my payment will be the promise of information.” Lady hoped that would be enough. Familiar duties likely included information gathering anyway, so Loki was collecting nothing that she wouldn’t have received anyway. However, Lady was hoping Loki would see the value in teaching the method in case Emi required assistance with controlling the chaotic energies.

X3 Stone Waterskin – 3,000 Ryo each.
X15 Plenty Stone – 475 Ryo each.

[An'ei Sekitan]

Sekitan would watch as the woman reappeared with a new outfit, their so called guide into this tree, and she would begin to speak. Glowing emerald green eyes would focus on Loki, a hard stare attempting to pin her in place it would seem, listening to the words coming from her mouth. A gloved hand would come to his chin, the right hand, and his index finger would tap thoughtfully. Tap. Tap. Only two and the thought process would be completed, a small nearly imperceptible grimace coming to his lips.

“You are correct,” Sekitan would begin, his arm coming back down to his side, “The tree is that way…Guide.” Two steps forward and he was before her now, towering over her at nearly a foot of difference, about three feet distance so she would not have to strain too much. There was no fear in him as he watched her, even knowing she was Uchiha, he looked her directly in the eyes. Almond shaped and violet in color, like lavender. Peculiar. Uchiha eyes are typically black, save for Houkou, I’ve never seen another with an off color like this. A gentle breeze would sweep through the camp, kicking up a bit of dust between them, but it remained low the earth. A bird would cry in the distance.

“Correct me if I am mistaken, Guide,” there was no humor on his face, as if it could be made from stone, “But the job of the guide is to, well…guide. There are very few guides I know of that lead from the back of any procession.” His head would turn toward the ‘tree’, those eyes of his, cold and made of steel studied the structure for a moment. Then his eyes cut back to Loki, his head following shortly after, and his eyes narrowed ever so slightly. What is it exactly that you’re planning, Loki? What are you after inside this tree that you need all of us, through the manipulation of this coalition, to aid you in acquiring? Is it merely the Bifrost?

“Of course, there is the matter of your knowledge,” there was only a slight pause before he said knowledge, as if there was a different word he wished to use, “You seem to have quite a bit more information that you let on, of that much I am sure. You know more of the inside of that tree than you have said, Guide, and so your services as guide will be required once we are within as well…as I am sure you are aware. But first, before we go into the unknown, what else do you know about the tree, these other realms, and what we are facing. This is apparently your area of expertise or you would not be here, would you, Guide?” Each time, Sekitan would place an emphasis on the word guide, making it her title and attempting to bind her to it, as it was the role she was assuming for herself.

Once Loki completed speaking, his eyes would shift to the boy, the blue one. Emi was the name. Again, they would shift, this time to the fox girl, Mikuzume if he remembered correctly. They happened to be near one another, although he was unsure if that was coincidence or not, and they both received something from this woman, but only Emi had to pay for the information with a promise of information. Curious. Just what else is this creature to Loki? A bag of various items and a mirror that seemed to float. What are those items? Perhaps I should have Juniper take a peek. It might be good if she peeked at the method as well. I would rather we did not owe this woman favors. His eyes would return to Loki, frozen emerald steel.

[AMATERASU]

Loki seemed to take the opposite approach compared to me. Where I had gained layers of clothing, she had actually shed them. I guess ease of movement was important when you were a melee combatant as much as a spellcaster. It was easy to see where George got some of his ideas like this. Like son, like mother.


I accepted the gifts gratefully, my attention immediately drawn to the mirror. It was, after all, a gift of exquisite craftsman...ship...wait. Something about this mirror was familiar. I know for sure I've never owned anything so beautiful and yet...my head hurts. Looking into its smooth, reflective surface, I somehow knew what it was, what it could do. Yata-no-Kagami. My spirit companion liked it a lot, twisting around it excitedly, setting it into a rapid spin while it hovered in place. When it had had its fun, it moved the mirror to float passively just behind my head.

"Thank you so much, I love it!" I said. I was still bothered by it though. I needed to know. "Why do you think this was...is...mine? Do you...know what this is?"

I also needed to examine the other items she gave me. Welcoming gifts. It must be because she had recruited me on an impulse. There wasn't really a plan, and she'd been sporadically catching me up with the others since. Each one I held, I Traced in order to appraise their structure and function. These were all potent magical tools. Most of them would be effective just by being worn properly, though some needed to be activated somehow first. My ability to Trace items revealed those functions easily. I was very, very good at this sort of thing, befitting my role as the primary negotiator. After all, if one could not understand thoroughly the value of objects, they would not be able to make an equitable exchange.

I equipped everything on the spot, naturally. It was all useful, and also complimented my look phenomenally. I was confident that I looked fantastic in this full regalia. The ring went on my left index finger, the chain I wore as a necklace, the crown went on my head. The three gems that didnt require being worn in a specific way were inserted into my Witch Watch, the pearls went on my right wrist, and then I was left with two gems that I wasn't sure what to do with. I tucked them into my robe's interior left breast pouch for the time being. I'd ask her how to work with them later when we had a moment.

Finishing up, I gave myself a look over, making partial spins in place first one way, then the other, to see as much of myself as possible. Then I shifted the mirror to sit in front of my face so I could make sure everything looked right there as well. My tail waved happily, sticking out from my new robe. Yup, I looked good.

The fur on my tail bristled. I was being watched, specifically. I could tell. The gaze of human suspicion was a familiar feeling. Instinctively I shrunk back, withdrawing into myself. But no, no I couldn't be afraid. These were allies. Friends. Be brave Kurama. I turned to meet the gaze of...the pretty one. I should probably learn some of their names at some point. Good bones on this one. I definitely liked what I saw. But his eyes were scary. I tried really hard not to be intimidated, but it wasn't working. I blinked, and took a deep breath, puffing up my chest with as much courage as I could muster, and approached him directly. My new - old? - mirror was back to orbiting me like usual, but I grabbed and held on to it so that it wouldn't get in the way of conversation.

"Hi hi, what's up? What's your name?"

[~Emi~]

Heading out

I

t hadn't taken long until he had managed to make the exchange with Loki, and it had gone far smoother than he had anticipated. Apparently she had some previous knowledge of his friends and felt they were loyal to her. As Zuruel had told him about the organization Loki was leader, he wondered what that made Zuruel, a captain perhaps? But it mattered little.

Thank you.

Was the only thing that seemed necessary to say as he received the scroll about the information. When Lady came up and asked for the same, Emi waited until she also had gained hers before taking two steps back. As the scroll contained information that was valued goods, Emi used the shadows of the gates to practically vanish (366 stealth) as he opened it up and gave it a quick look. He quietly cursed as he wrapped it up and hid it in his clothing before taking a step out into the light again.

Since Emi believed that all missions had to be taken seriously, he didn't want to hasten the start until they were organized. But he scanned the man that had done most of the talking, to see if he could estimate his potential as a leader. The confidence would after all be required to be able to push such a miss match group together and jump into the dark unknown.

I would suggest that we promote Loki herself to the leader, as she already has planned this out, probably for a long time.

To have Loki step up as leader didn't seem to be part of her plan though, which Emi suspected was because that would have the world look at her when devastation hit and nobody came back. That way she would feel less eager to allow people to disappear for the sake of the mission. 

[Claws of the Tundra]

The business that they had in the manor, had concluded and there was very little left to do in terms of the next steps on this operation. They had an hour, and with that time they could do a short bit of things, in order to prepare. A lot of useless things were admittedly on Lady Kahimi's mind at the time, which didn't allow her to operate as appropriately as she normally would. However she was still aware enough to catch a general of the current events around her.

While some of the others discussed more on their plans with the cult, she couldn't help but have the displeasure of knowing that one of the party members. Particularly the man with uniquely styled clothing and red hair, openly declared that he was going to: "have fun with this the trickster". This all didn't sit well with Lady Kahimi at all, which quickly brought a cold hard gaze upon him, before he suddenly vanished.

From that point on, she'd already have the initiative the leave, but while her mind was ready to make a short scene to throw things off Juniper's trail it seemed things were not going to get that rowdy after all. She'd one of the Juniper's more or less gentle tug on her hand and get the idea immediately. So with that is what she and the original hiiden Juniper would do. Disperse and then regroup towards the gates, albeit somewhat naturally seeing as her 'in the moment' plan didn't take place.

Over at the Northern Gates which was the rendezvous point, Lady Kahimi would be approaching it a little late. "I can't be slow like this again." she'd mutter underneath her breath as she would appear and walk near Sekitan whom was sitting on the barrel at the time. Not everyone was here yet though, which was only minimally worrisome. However it seemed that Princess Loki didn't care about that regardless, which is completely understandable if anything. Kahimi would catch everything she said when addressing the group that was here as a whole, in terms of leadership and carrying on with the path ahead.

Which brought a bit of discomfort the Inuzuka's already disturbed thoughts. Discomfort that Sekitan would once again ease as he would bring up some thoughts of his own, albeit rather personally. Well...that is the Yuki no Kuni way...

For what its worth Lady Kahimi would like to hear those answers too. However she also didn't want to make any grievances with someone who does or does not have more plans that tie into the operation the brought themselves apart of. Every single one of them didn't have to be here. And if Kahimi is going to be apart of it. She isn't going to be pulled by the hand. Not again at least. So while suggestions and disapproval may fly about, she'd decide to walk up ahead of the surrounding crowd of party members, thought when she spoke she addressed everyone else not caring that she'd be cutting off mirror holding Miku's introduction whatsoever.

"I'll lead. While I can see why Loki here is a popular candidate despite her own wishes, I frankly don't want to waste more time even pressing on about it. I'll take point and help with decision making. I have experience in that field already so don't bother questioning me. You all can refer to me as Kahimi. Nothing else or I won't answer you. Got it? We can gather the rest of your names and such along the way." She'd say in a clear voice for everyone to hear. She'd be standing right behind Sekitan when she faced them to make the announcement. But when she was done, she'd turn around and stare up at him with a similarly firm look as she didn't want him questioning why she'd bother playing Loki's games either. And then after looking at him she'd look at Mikuzume as for some reason something was off about this one...

Either way she didn't care enough to talk about it more unless she had to. She'd just fold her arms underneath her chest and walk around both Sekitan and Loki and stare up at the tree for a second while listening to see if the rest were coming along as well or said anything.

[Madame Loki]

And A Leader Presents Herself

Loki didn't say anything to Lady as the moon dog spoke into the Loki's mind. Loki also didn't bother to hand her anything in return. She simply relayed the information mentally to Lady so she could absorb it. After having passed that along she next turned her attention towards Miku. However, she did not say anything out loud. She spoke to Nex mentally who in turned relayed what was said into Miku's mind.

<Loki felt your aura coming from it, and anyone who's studied Ancient History will know what that is. One of Three Imperial Treasures, 3 Sacred Regalia. Yata-no-Kagami. Loki believes that they were all in your possession at one point, or maybe they were all yours to begin with, she's not sure, yet. At the very least the Mirror belonged to you. When she found it she said it was broken and shattered, but still retained some of it's essence. It might help you regain your memories, if we gather the other treasures, or restore them, if they're in the same condition as the Mirror was.>

As Loki was passing on the information to Nex to be shared mentally with Miku, Loki heard the voice of the tall one once again. She looked at him unmoved as he made his way towards her. He wouldn't be the first tall long haired man to look into her eyes with such arrogance. The last one, ended up on his knees, she wondered if she would get the chance to do the same to this one? As he stepped forward, Loki stepped forward as well, looking up at the man with a slight smirk on her face.

"You keep staring into my eyes. Do you find them beautiful, Mr. Ninja? Be careful not to stare too close, they've been known to make men rather weak in the knees." Loki playfully teased, not seeming to be taking the man's prodding seriously. However, her eyes narrowed as she continued, "You seem to be able to answer your own questions, Mr. Ninja. You know of a few guides that lead from the back, by your own admission, so it shouldn't be too surprising that I'll do the same." Loki brushed off what seemed to be an accusation lobbed at her. Loki was as calm as could be. She was sure there were plenty of people this man could put fear into. She was not one of them. After all, as scary as a man could pose to be, they were still just a man.

Loki was beginning to answer the next barrage of prodding, when the Coven Call,came through her Watch. Loki stopped herself from speaking as she put up her index finger, "One Moment, this might be urgent." She said as she turned her back to Sekitan and answered the call...

"Hey Loki? I found one of those hot fire mountains what were they called again?" The voice on the other end of the Watch spoke. Loki's face zoned out completely for an instant before she recovered,

"It's called a Volcano, sweetheart. Krystal, darling I'm quite busy right now, why don't you come to where I am if you're bored. Jormungandr is holding on to the items you asked me for." Loki said, not waiting for a response. Knowing Krystal she'd be over without a moments hesitation. Loki turned her attention back over towards Sekitan, sighing while shaking her head. Krystal was quite the hand full, she had the worst timing. Within missing a beat Loki walked back to where she was standing and picked up where she left off.

"Again, you seem intent on answering your own questions. You are correct, I do know quite a bit more, and it is MY knowledge and I'm unwilling to share... for free. I will give you all the information needed to complete your mission, not a single bit more. Anything extra will have it's price. And what you are asking isn't relevant towards your mission. You are a ninja... Mr.Ninja, your job is to kill the targets." Sekitan was either too curious for his own good, or didn't like anything to be out of his own control, or scope of understanding. He didn't know what she really wanted, or he just refused to believe all she wanted was the Bifrost. Loki could ease his worries if she pleased. Or make him more pliable, to make things easier, but where was the fun in that?

"You're going to fight a cult, not traverse realms. I will get you inside, and point you in the possible directions they could have gone. At present, you don't need anything more to do your job, Mr. Ninja. So stay focused on doing your job... Mr. Ninja." She put emphases on the word ninja, reminding him of the role he assigned himself when he accepted this mission. He was just a hired killing machine, expendable, replaceable. He was a dog used for killing, nothing more. The fact he demanded answers to questions he had no busy asking, was assuming. Loki said nothing more as she turned her attention over towards the young woman who had brought it upon herself to take charge.

"Then I shall resend the nomination that I have been given."  Loki said as she politely bowed her head to Himi, and let her take the front,. She Stood next to Sekitan, arms folded under her chest looking towards Yggdrasil,

"Instead of looking for me to answer your questions. Why not satisfy your own curiosities? What's the point of living if all the answers are handed to you? The hardest Mysteries are the most fun to solve." Loki did not looked over at the man as she spoke, nor did she expect him to even heed her words. They were her true thoughts, and she was just as curious to see what the inside of the Tree looked like. Hearing about it was one thing, looking with her own eyes, was another entirely.

"I am ready to head out when ever you are, "Ms. Kahimi.


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

Deadline is Thursday 22:00 C-Box Time 

Will PM Details to Shinz.

Titan of Stone

[Titan of Stone]

In a flash of violet Krystal appeared behind Loki hugging around her shoulders naked, covered in soot, and smelling of smoke after she bowed to Kahimi. Considering the neko's absolute lack of area awareness she kissed Loki's ncheek with a happy squeal. "Thankyouthankyouthankyou~ Where's my nephew?"

Krystal's head popped up looking around noting all the people with a slight look of confusion before her gold eyes settled on Kahimi making her purr happily as she slipped from Loki and flew down to kiss Kahimi's lips before hugging around her shoulders like she had Loki. "Hey~"

After Loki spoke up again Krystal blinked looking around at everyone noticing Ammy, Loki's pets, a few people she didn't know, Zuruel and Lady. She smiled big waving at them. After her initial scan she let go standing a bit between Kahimi and Loki as she touched down on. "Sooo what's going on?"

[An'ei Sekitan]

The creature would approach him from his right, puffing up her chest just shortly after the exchange between Loki and himself, cutting off his avenue of retort. It did not matter. It seemed the witch was not going to relay this information that could prove important, but instead wanted them to find this information for themselves, and Sekitan merely offered her a contemptuous hmph for it. Other matters to address at a later date. For now, he turned toward the creature, this Mikuzume, and found her to be even smaller than Loki was. She offered him a greeting and asked him name. Curious.

“I suppose it is only fair,” he began, not bothering to crouch down to be on her same level when he spoke to her, forcing her to crane her neck to look up at him. “I am An’ei Sekitan. As for what’s up, well, it looks like we have ourselves a leader and it is time to get moving, Little Fox.” This time he would crouch so that he could look her in the eyes, face to face with this fox girl, or perhaps it was a fox woman. Her eyes were golden colored, like a type of alcohol, perhaps mead. She was wearing the crown that the witch had brought back but kept the jewels in the bag on her person, and then there was the strange mirror that she was now hugging.

His eyes would drift to the tree again for the moment, their destination soon, and the killing would inevitably begin. Always the slaughter, a world built on the fallen corpses. His eyes would return back to the fox girl, emerald steel trying to pierce into her soul, but it lasted for only a moment before he blinked and offered a rare smile. It was a confident half smirk, although not malicious or unpleasant, showing his perfectly white teeth. He clearly took care of himself. “Your bravery was not unnoticed but try not to puff out your chest so much. The bleeder might get ideas.” Rising back to his full height, he would turn away from the girl a little to face the gate. It would soon be time to leave.

A new arrival however, pulled seemingly from thin air, appeared in a flash of violet. It was unnecessary. She was large, another cat, but this one completely nude and covered in ash kissing first Loki, then Kahimi. His eyes would slash over to his Kage, narrowing visibly as he scrutinized her, then dancing between Loki and this woman. What is going on exactly? Was Kahimi in league with these witches? A grimace would come to his face as he looked at his Kage, a new light dawning on her, hazier and darker than before. Would he need to kill her? Would she give Yukigakure over to the likes of these creatures?

This mission had better start soon…

[Hoarfrost Imp]

This was convenient and smooth. Both Junipers arrived around the same time with Himi safe and sound. Good, good. Unsure exactly what was going on though Kahimi got her attention by taking the role of leader. The look on her own face though was one of annoyance. Obviously Kahimi would lead, she was a Kage, potentially the only actual kage here? Sekitan, that one she'd not quite gotten a good read on, he was a former kage but it was easy to see the similarities and the differences between them when it came to these 'matters' at hand that made Juniper certain she'd never truly be able to take on a leadership role of a village.

She was invested in a person not the village as a whole. Try as she might she just didn't feel anything for the people who had treated her like garbage till Kahimi came around and still even after, still looked down on her with a look of disdain. Loki was talking into something then... Nostrils flared, the flicker and appearance of a tall, mostly naked, avatar of a woman came around and had the audacity to not touch but kiss Kahimi and at once had the ire of the imp do so she went into hiding behind Himi. (Stealth: 495)

She was within her aura though and parts of her were definitely interested in eating up the putrid stench of curses locked around her whole. She licked her teeth a moment and nearly had the inkling to drop her invisibility but didn't. Is Himi liked them it was unhealthy to draw her ire. Didn't mean she couldn't be passive aggressive. Her eyes went to the Prince, to Himi, to the tall woman and then to Sekitan before she went back into the moment.

[AMATERASU]

"Mmm...Atago. My family name is Atago. Sort of. It's actually the name of a shrine a few kilometers off thataways," I elaborated with a vague wave in the direction of the mountains east of the Yggdrasil. My new sleeves were so long they dropped over my hands. "So, mister An'Ei Sekitan. What do I call ya? An'Ei? Sekitan? An, Seki?"

He wasn't actually so bad, even if he was kinda scary. And also really tall for a Human. Maybe he had Jiant blood? Nnnooo, probably not THAT tall. Alfin then? Could be. Especially with that jawline. And that HAIR. Hair that pretty on a man was a definite Alfar thing. I dug around in my robe's left pocket and pulled out a plenty stone, offering it as a gift. "You're with that leader lady Kahimi right? It might be a long trip, so you should bring snacks. By the way, did you know your eyes look like Mana?"


There was a flash and then all hell broke loose. The cat had arrived. "Oh hey, the cat's here. Hi, cat! How are - IYAA!" I called with a wave, running over to greet her. My okobo got caught on the hem of my robe, and I started to trip, shrieking as I went, but my mirror swung into place underfoot to catch me and push me back up before I grabbed it again. Good mirror.

[Skulking Shinzu]

A hopeless look of defeat appeared on Lady’s shadowy expression the moment Loki mentally relayed the very last bit of requested information. She had been very intrigued and positive until hearing that final line of dialogue. Sighing, she glanced over to the self-proclaimed leader of the group before studying the pale figure’s form intently. There seemed to be evil radiating from her heart, which put the Moon Dog on edge. However, from the way she spoke and carried herself, she seemed to display leader-like qualities. There would likely be no chaos or dissention under her command, assuming everyone could agree with her decisions. Whatever the case, the situation would be infinitely worse if Zuruel decided to put himself forward as leader, so she could only thank whatever Y’la was watching over her that her companion had arrived just in time for Krystal’s appearance to distract him.

“Krystal! My, my. All sorts of interesting faces are making a surprise appearance today.” Zuruel arrived in time to witness the awkward exchange between 'Mr Ninja' and Loki. Upon gesturing at Krystal’s location, Zuruel regrouped with Emi and Lady. While Lady relayed all the missed information to him, the Kedoin calmly glanced over to the fox eared girl. “Where’s Kimi – the red head you were with earlier? Oh, and the perv?” Zuruel seemed eager to regroup with them. Having witnessed Kimi’s talents before, he knew that the boy would make an excellent scout, while the perv would probably make half-decent bait. He seemed to have a natural affinity for drawing attention to himself, which would likely allow the remainder of the group to sneak around unnoticed.

While waiting for a response, Zuruel noted that a ‘Kahimi’ had been elected leader. Unsure whether that was a name or title, and far too soothed by Emi’s ring to challenge the decision, the Kedoin decided to remain silent rather than spreading his usual brand of chaos and mischief just for the fun of it. “Lady. I don’t like the sound of that. Stick close.” Upon relaying the thought to Lady, the shadowy companion bit into the pouch by her side to rip it free before transforming into shadowy Starmetal chains. In a serpentine display, the chains wrapped tightly around her companion’s left arm to cover him all the way from his elbow to his wrist, before dropping the pouch into his pale palm. Powerful fingers then caged around the pouch, before slipping the item into the mysterious pocket underneath the top of his shirt. “Ready.” He stated, before glancing over to Emi to confirm if the Hoshigaki was also prepared. Something Lady had telepathically said had put Zuruel on edge.

[Therakill]

Kimi sat there listening to everyone, he wasn’t going to step up. He wasn’t even strong enough to even be considered. But he would offer up something if he thought it was worth it. Everyone but that stone guy was here. Kimi stood up from his chair and let it melt away. He was ready to go and now that they had a leader he wanted to be on his way.

“Seeing as we have a leader and no one else wants to be one, should we head out? Kahimi thank you for taking on this burden. My name is Kimimaru Akasun, I am a Cloud Shinobi. It is a pleasure to meet you.” Kimi would say all this no emotions what so ever. In fact his tone bored on bored, but he sounded as respectful as he could.

He wants sure who the guy that said his name was. But he made sure to move toward Lady and Miku. It was clear that we four seemed to be a team. He would wait for the Guide Loki or the Leader Kahimi speak next. Though as he watched Kahimi something seemed to trigger his memories. Something about the mark on her face, not that it was familiar but those markings reminded Kimi of his mother. As soon as he came to that conclusion his face seemed to lose a bit of control and it went from pain, to hate, to regret, to acceptance in a few seconds.

[~Emi~]

And so it begins

T

he guide seemed to dislike the one that tried to take charge, which resulted in a very back and forth disrespectful talk. Emi was not very fancy in his manners, but even he felt like the scene was uncomfortably bad. So when the group finally had finished that part and a leader had stepped out, he heavily breathed out of relief. In such groups it was easy to make the scenarios very hostile in that manner, so the Hoshigaki just wanted to get away and meet the actual opponents before anyone attacked someone else within the faction.

I'm a little surprised that you didn't take the lead

Emi jokingly said to Zuruel as they started to walk away towards the tree. There was however no reason to challenge such a position as the leader of the group was to aim them instead of the normal ones that actually had authority over the rest. But as he didn't really care, he just took another bite of his chocolate and continued out through the gate.

[An'ei Sekitan]

Gently he took the offered gift from the little fox girl, a stone of plenty, quite the useful tool when out and about on mission. A kind gesture such as this would not go unnoticed of course, so he would have to pay her back for the generosity at some point during this mission. He would find a way to pay her back, regardless of the small amount this stone actually cost. ”Sekitan will do fine, Atago Mikuzume,” he would state, “I have heard of the Atago Shrine, an old shrine not much in use anymore save for a few devote. Are you Kitsune perhaps?” [Ancient History: 160] Before he could get an answer from her, she was darting off after the cat woman, clearly more than an acquaintance.

Two more names were added to his collection; Krystal and Kimimaru. It was surprising that the bleeder hadn’t already leaped at the opportunity to get at Krystal, appearing here in that state of undress, which made no sense at all. Another witch that doesn’t possess a cognitive definition of society and law. Disgraceful. There wasn’t much left to say to the others, unless any of them came to address him as the Little Fox had. If not, he would be on his way with the others once they began to move out. He did not anticipate danger on the way to the tree, however, he did not let his guard down for a moment. The danger was also all around him. [Awareness: 160]