Lighting the Embers

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Fri Jul 23, 2021 8:01 pm

phpBB [video] Darkness.

A thin bream of bright white light cut through the shadows.

A thin layer of water covered the ground, the man known as Aizawa, Yoru stood in nothing but a small pair of grey shorts. His feet gently rested on the cold water, a chill ran up through his spine as he shivered.

The bright light shined directly into his eye, but he didn’t wince or pull away in attempts to protect his eye from the light. His fingers edged towards his eye there was nothing there but skin and scar tissue.

He felt an instinct to walk towards the light, after all where else was there to go? But it was more than that, he felt it tugging at him as though he didn’t have a choice. One foot slowly, gingerly stepped forward, his steps splashed gently against the water. His hand reaching out towards the light as he stepped closer and closer, the light getting bright and brighter. Yoru’s hands began to tremble, his fingertips wrapped around the lightas it turned into an orb he pulled on it gently and it didn’t budge. Pulling harder, he felt the tension pull back as blood began to trickle from the orb and down his hand, splattering out and hitting him in the face, more and more blood splashed as he yanked it harder until finally the tension snapped and the orb came free. Blood sprayed out, covering Yoru head to toe in blood.

He fell back in shock, falling backwards into the water. However he didn’t stop, he felt himself plunge through nothing but air falling through the air at least three stories and landing on the ground with a hard thud, he gasped loudly and winced in pain. The white orb fell from his fingertips and rolled across the floor.

Pulling himself across the floor on his hands and knees in desperation, ignoring the pain his arms flayed at the orb before it rolled to far, his fingers grasping firmly around it and pulling it close towards his chest, afraid someone would take it from him.

“Yoru.” He heard his name whisper through the air, his head snapped to one side looking for what the sound came from. Nothing.

“Yoru.” Again he snapped his head again and nothing.

“Yoru, Yoru, Yoru.”

More white beams of light ripped through the darkness.

“Yoru.”

And another.

“Yoru, Yoru.”

And another.

“Yoru, Yoru, Yoru.”

There surrounding him, stood men and women all with white bright eyes and dark coloured hair. He looked through the crowd of people looking for a familiar face, they all stared at him with disgust and there she was, her jet black hair almost blue in colour, her soft pale skin and her eyes as bright as at the moon on a cold winters night.

Hyuuga, Aina.

He looked at her and almost whimpered, like a beaten dog, afraid of what was to happen. There behind her slowly walked Takeo and placed his hand on her shoulder shooting him the same look of disgust, his own brother stepped out and Yoru’s peers in Konoha. They all slowly walked towards Yoru reaching out towards him.

“Yoru.”

“Yoru.”

“Yoru.” His eyes flicked open, his head pressed against the desk on his office an empty glass bottle to one side and stale whiskey filled the air, looming from a half-filled glass. He stomached churned as he dragged himself up and slumped back on his chair, his younger brother Nobu stood in a ROOT uniform “You’re a mess.” Said he brother, gesturing for him to stand up. Even though Yoru was his Commander, right now they were simply brothers. The younger of the siblings slipped his head beneath Yoru’s armpit and hoisted him up, leading him towards Yoru’s personal chambers where he could shower and get clean.

“I have news for you, Commander.” The change in tone, meant that Nobu was here for business “We have received intel on Fushinkou, Yaku. Specifically a hideout, there has been no sighting of him however though.” The hair on the back of Yoru’s neck stood on end as he heard the name, the true ghost of Konoha the man who had invaded the village, stole the scrolls of the Hyuuga clan and left a shudder that could still be felt today across the village.

He paused for a moment and nodded “Send Minako to my chambers.” Nobu nodded, leaving an A4 file on Yoru's chest of drawers with what intel they had, before heading out for Minako. Yoru walked through his chambers they were surprisingly bare nothing but a bed and a chest of drawers, apparent he spent little time here if any, often falling asleep behind his desk under a pile of paperwork. There was a door that led to an en suite bathroom, where he pulled off his green haori and threw it on the floor, turning on the hot tap and throwing the water over himself to clean his face.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Mon Jul 26, 2021 9:20 pm

Minako hadn't expected a summons, though in truth she was so new to the organization she wasn't sure how to react or when she should expect summons. She was training with Rei at her side in the woods, yet again a night spent in a tent and cooking over an open fire when she was found. She would have to head home to change and retrieve her mask, slipping out of one of her own windows to head to the ANBU headquarters to meet with Yoru when she was ready. She didn't like the uniform much, but that seemed to be part of the life. She understood the need to hide her identity behind the conformity of it, and it made more sense for someone like her than others. Behind the uniform and the mask, her normally disheveled hair brushed and removed of all bones and wild things to be put into a thick braid, it was hard to tell it was her. She wouldn't be surprised if even her fellow Inuzuka would have had a hard time seeing beyond the mask to see who she was.

By time she got to the headquarters she would have had her uniform on, her hair pulled back into a tight braid and all bones, feathers, and odd leaves and the like removed from it. The mask was in an extra pouch on her hip for the time being when she knocked on the door of Yoru's chamber, only entering when or if he answered her knock with an invite. "You asked for me?" Naturally Rei was at her side as well, the large dog always at her side.

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Sun Aug 01, 2021 2:21 pm

He flung the warm water up from the basin, splashing it on to his face he breathed heavily and leaned over the sink he felt a rush of anxiety pour over him and a knotting in his stomach. He couldn’t believe it, Yoru had dedicated a good period of his life tracking down Yaku after the invasion of Konoha without a single trace of him and now intel of a hideout had appeared, seemingly out of nowhere.

He’d have a little time to prepare while Nobu retrieved Minako, he pulled himself away from the sink and out into his room opening up his chest of drawers, retrieving one of his Anbu uniform and slipped it on, picking up his mask and attaching it to his belt. Whilst he waited, he’d sit on the end of his bed and read through the file Nobu had left for him.

Hearing a knock on the door, he would say “Come in.” his voice softly croaked out, he remained sat on the bed as the young woman walked in. His thoughts seemed elsewhere as she spoke to him, until finally he nodded and slowly stood up from the bed “Yes, thank you for coming Minako.” He said, as he forced a smile across “We’ve received intel that a hideout of Fushinkou, Yaku within Dragons Breath, I’m hoping we can locate it and it will lead to clues to Yaku’s whereabouts.”

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Thu Aug 05, 2021 2:29 pm

Once in the room Minako leaned against the nearby wall and crossed her arms, watching Yoru as she listened to him answer her question. She didn't seem to have much of a reaction to the news. Yaku's invasion of Konoha had happened before she was a shinobi, it was an event that hadn't impacted her directly. The information had simply been handed down almost like history to her, and so felt odd to hear about. "I think I heard about him in the academy." she replied rather simply at first, sighing to herself.

"So do we think he's still at this hideout? What kind of trouble are we expecting?" she asked, seeming almost nonchalant. It wasn't that she wasn't concerned about this or what could happen. She simply felt a bit disconnected from the situation, unlike Yoru the situation didn't hit quite so personally for her.

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Sat Aug 07, 2021 3:45 pm

A somewhat half smile fell across his face realising that Minkao seemed to have no connection to Yaku at all, his invasion had caused scars for many in the village some that still stayed with Yoru today and how he had searched for Yaku and Enma to no avail. It was a constant reminder of failure. But Minako’s casual demeanour and nonchalant attitude surprisingly made him feel a little better about the situation.

“I forget how young you are Minako and all of a sudden realised how old I’ve become.” he said with a soft chuckle, his years away from the village and the war, felt like a blip in a time and now they all seemed to catch up all in one go.

As she asked of what they were to expect, he answered honestly “I have no idea. A trap most likely? Maybe even Yaku himself, if you decide to come with me Minako you need to understand the risk. He’s incredibly powerful…. I… I’m not sure even I can stop him.” It was apparent that Yaku had some kind of hold of Yoru and made him doubt his abilities, and it dawned on him that he had opened up too much to the young woman in front of him already, the veil of The Commander was quickly slipping.

He composed himself and nodded “If you accept to accompany me, we’ll travel to Dragons Breath it will take a couple of days at least.”

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Sun Aug 08, 2021 4:54 pm

Minako smirked as Yoru called himself old. She wasn't sure she necessarily agreed, in spite of losing an eye the man didn't look that bad to her. His hair still had a vibrant color to it and though she hadn't seen him in a fight yet she doubted he was slow in any way. As he went on to answer her question, the young woman tilted her head and uncrossed her arms, slipping her hands into her pockets instead and her body language relaxing a bit. She doubted most ever saw this man doubt himself in this way before. She wasn't sure she'd ever see his shell crack like this again, but given how abrasive she had been towards him when she was recruited it was actually a comfort to her to see. What she had seen in Yozei not so long ago and hated was that surety that she and her brother had suffered for some just cause. She just wanted to see someone falter, and Yozei's apologies had felt so hollow. What she was seeing in Yoru in front of her right now suddenly seemed sincere, and she could see a man that might question the need when lives were lost, even if he was the one who had to decide when they were lost.

There was a small smile on her lips when he suddenly regained his composure. 'This is a man who could decide my death is necessary, feel that weight, and still dismiss it. But at least he'd still feel it.' She nodded at his comment. "I'll come." she told him. "No sense in you going in alone and besides... brushes with death aren't exactly new for me." she added, a small smirk evident on her expression.

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Mon Aug 23, 2021 2:36 pm

Yoru smiled at the woman in front of him, as she accepted the mission The Commander had given her. He could of easily give this to her and another member of the Anbu, perhaps Tenzin but this was too personal for Yoru, it meant too much for him not to be there and in all honesty, he didn’t know what dangers would await them.

With that, the pair we’re off.

The pair sat in a roofed coach, with driver out front and two horses pulling it along the costal line of the Aroma country, where the Chuunin exams had just gone by. Where Yoru had revealed his Byakugan to the entire world, forced out by the powerful jinchuriki. His relationship had become even more strained with the Hyuuga clan, to use the Byakugan in such a way, to bastardise it like that? He wasn’t sure how long he could keep it without Takeo having to step in. Perhaps exile Yoru or demand that the eye be removed.

Rain hit against the carriage, the pitter patter was loud and ran through Yoru’s ears. The journey would be difficult once they reached the border and had to move through the treacherous desert, Yoru hoped the plans for the new railway would get under way soon, though he still had to broker the deal.

“We’ll take a rest soon and the driver will charter our journey across the desert to Dragons breath, it’s difficult once we reach there.” He admitted, he wasn’t fond of extremely hot weathers so he was glad of the cool rain.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Fri Aug 27, 2021 9:44 pm

Minako sat across from Yoru, leaning back in the seat with her eyes closed simply listening to the rain. In truth, while she found the sound itself soothing, she wasn't overly fond of the rain itself. It tended to dampen everything and make it hard to pick out individual scents, and of course there was the fact that everything smelled like wet dog to her. The thought of course bringing her mind to the source of the smell, her eyes opening for a moment and looking over to Rei who, once again, had her head sticking outside of the carriage window. Minako made a sound through her teeth at the dog, causing Rei to quickly retreat back into the carriage with her ears down briefly and pout by flopping on the bench on Minako's side of the carriage. Naturally this meant flopping on Minako herself.

Minako groaned and rolled her eyes. "Oi. You big fucking lummox..." she muttered at the large dog, grumbling under her breath before her attention was pulled away by Yoru.

In a rare moment of slight shame, she blushed, realizing she was acting a bit ridiculous in front of her superior with her companion. She nodded and swallowed hard, tapping Rei on the nose who only huffed at her in response and still refused to get off of her. "How difficult?" she tried to ask. "What kind of trouble are we expecting on the trip itself?"

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Thu Sep 02, 2021 3:23 pm

Yoru’s head rested on the inside of the carriage, he could feel the vibrations rattling through him. He seemed somewhat distant, aloof as though stuck in his own thoughts concerned that Yaku would be at the other end of the desert to meet them. The powerful warrior of the leaf, seemed terrified. Yaku had such a hold over many shinobi of Konoha, it lingered with them.

However he came out of it as he heard Minako address her dog, having been raised on a farm all of his life he was used to animals and certainly sheep dogs, so there was no need for her to be embarrassed.

Yoru whistled a soft tune, and gently lifted his hand towards the dog to say he was friendly. If all parties were happy, he’d stroke the dog gently behind the ear “What’s her name?” he asked as his fingers itched through the thick black fur, he shook his head as Minako asked what they could expect on the journey “Oh nothing too dangerous, just the desert can be treacherous. Though if the rain holds up it may stay cool. I don’t expect much trouble until we arrive.” He said with what seemed like honest confidence.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Thu Sep 02, 2021 6:25 pm

Minako admittedly didn't know Yoru that well yet, he was simply her Commander. But still she was a bit worried. At most she could tell something seemed a bit off, but as she swore at Rei and she saw him reach out towards the dog she almost felt a relief wash over her as he suddenly seemed less disconnected and more in touch with his surroundings for the moment. Rei of course responded positively. Her ears shot up at the whistled tune and her wet nose was shoved right into his hand as Minako snorted in a laugh at the display. "I swear, you'd never know she's apparently a quarter wolf or something, the way she's acting right now." she remarked, shaking her head. "Her name is Rei." she told Yoru as the large black dog clearly enjoyed the attention. If he didn't stop her in fact, the simple ear scratches would quickly turn into the large dog trying to climb onto his lap to plop down for more attentions.

Minako of course just looked all the more embarrassed. "I swear her brother is more professional than this." she muttered, earning a short glare from the dog before Rei went back to practically melting under the pets and Minako just shook her head. "I suppose the coolness with the rain is a good thing, though the way the rain stifles scent always makes me a bit uncomfortable," she admitted as she looked at him for a moment, idly wondering if she should ask him about the way he'd been zoning out only moments before.

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Wed Sep 08, 2021 8:46 am

Yoru chuckled softly as Rei clambered on to his lap, the famed Bannin seemed much more simpler and less intimidating than he had ever before as he cooed and spoke to the dog as though he would a child.

Funny, both Rei and Yoru were wild killing machines and yet they both sat upon a carriage close to each other for affection. His slender pale fingers on his left hand stroked through the black fur of the dog patting it gently every so often.

Though she didn’t apologise, her tone sounded apologetic for the actions of Rei “It’s no problem, I’m used to animals on the farm plus my own Sensei had wolves.” Yoru slipped deep back into through, his hand paused, resting gently on Rei.

Yoru, then a young jounin his long red hair flowing behind him as he and his Sensei Takeo hurtled through the rooftops of Konoha, screams could be heard from all directions, people fleeing with desperation.

“Sensei!” Yoru yelled, as the gates of Konoha came closer two figures stood in front of it with such a presence and power.

Yaku and Enma.

It had being so long ago and yet it still sat with Yoru for all of this time, Konoha had now being invaded twice within his life time.

Pitiful he thought.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Wed Sep 08, 2021 10:20 pm

"Wolves huh? Sometimes I wish we Inuzuka could have the same connection with wolves we have with dogs... but even only being a quarter wolf Rei can be unpredictable at times. I can't imagine if she were full blooded." Minako admitted with a sigh as she watched the pair interact. Eventually her embarrassment over her companions behavior seemed to fade, replaced with a small smile. "She really seems to like you... she normally doesn't like strangers this much. Especially men." She couldn't help a chuckle as she remembered a recent interaction. "We were in the woods hunting recently and had a run-in with one of the Hokage's kids. Yozei I think was his name. I had to command her to stand down. She really wasn't too fond of him... though then again that could have just been the wolf part of her. She's always different in the woods." She shrugged. "Hell, I butted heads with him too. Pompous little prick."

Minako sighed and looked out the window again as the scenery passed by, noticing out the corner of her eye as Yoru seemed to fade away for a moment again. She pulled her gaze back into the carriage for a moment and chose to do something a bit out of character for her. She reached over and put a hand on Yoru's knee, giving it a light squeeze to get his attention. "Are you okay?" she asked him finally.

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Sat Sep 11, 2021 1:56 pm

Yoru hadn’t heard a word the woman had said, he had slipped deep into his own thoughts his hand pressed gently against Rei on his lap barely moving it.

The Bannin pondered if he’d face Yaku once the pair arrived to the hideout and if they did, would Minako and Rei make it out alive? Yoru losing his own life wouldn’t be an issue, but he couldn’t waste theirs with this. His gaze fell upon Rei, as she nudged at his hand to remind him to stroke her again, a weak smile fell cross his face as he patted her gently.

Minako, spoke to him asking if he was, ok? It was apparent to him now that he wasn’t being as subtle as he thought he was he shook his head and chuckled softly “Nothing you need worry about Minako, I’m just tired is all.” He lied, thought it was an obvious lie anyway “I just need a good bath and a rest when he arrives at the inn, shouldn’t be too far now.”

The cart continued forward, heading towards the inn.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Sat Sep 11, 2021 2:08 pm

Minako removed her hand from his knee, sighing as she leaned back where she sat and simply looked at the man. His lie was certainly obvious to her, though she wasn't sure what she could do about it. She was his subordinate, and she hardly knew him. The only things she knew of the man were of his reputation and very little of his recent reputation was all that good. "I hope you have someone in your life you don't have to lie to." she finally said, returning her eyes to look out of the window. "Whatever it is you're feeling, you can't bury that forever. I imagine it'll eat you alive... you need someone you can tell everything to."

She crossed her arms and rested her head back to stare out the window, for a brief moment feeling sorry for herself again. Her one person she could always confide in had always been her twin. That was gone now, leaving behind a hole she knew she'd never fill, no matter how hard she tried. Ironically while the Bannin across from hers saw risking her life in this mission as a waste, she saw things very differently.

She closed her eyes as the cart moved, not falling asleep of course but simply waiting for them to arrive at their destination. 'Every day just delays until I join you again, Minaru... maybe if I'm very lucky it'll be sooner rather than later...'

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Sat Sep 11, 2021 3:35 pm

A long time ago, Yoru would have professed every thought that came to his mind divulging in his traumatised past to anyone who would listen. But he had changed since his youth, now focusing inward and dealing with his own problems himself.

Perhaps she was right, maybe would day it would eat him alive. Though perhaps that what he deserved?

It made him think, who could he tell his secrets to? He lied to everyone, his village, his hokage, his mother farther and even his brother. The secrets he kept protected them all and protected himself. Yoru couldn’t even fathom how his mother would react if he told her the truth, who he’d truly become. She already couldn’t look him in the eye, it seemed like the other villagers of Konoha she had come to fear him, fear what he’d become and what he’d do.

What was he to do? He couldn’t confine in Minako, she was after all his subordinate and he would of course allow a relationship to blossom but he couldn’t allow it to go to far, he had to keep the mysyique of the Anbu commander alive.

Though perhaps cuddling up to a dog and petting it on your lap didn’t quite help that.

He sighed softly and followed Minako’s lead, glaring out of the window as the carriage kept strolling forward.

After some time, they reached the border of wind country they were allowed through with very little hassle, having the right travel papers and visas needed for such an excursion.

The cart pulled up in front of a large in, there was a bathouse to one side and it seemed well decorated inside and out. Clearly a holiday destination for those who wanted the warm of the wind country but didn’t want the dangers of truly traveling the desert.

Yoru pushed open the door of the cart, lifting himself out as the rain poured down heavily.

He sighed softly “I think my bath is out of the question.” The rain was far too heavy for the bath house to be used, that was clear enough. The driver hopped down and offered to take Yoru’s bags who promptly declined and made his way towards the inn.

Turning to the driver before he entered “Once you’ve put away the horses you may retire for the night, your expenses are of course on the village so make sure to get your share. I’d leave to leave at 6:00am sharp, we have a long journey ahead of us.” He said, before slipping through the doors.

Assuming Minako followed, the bar was busier than usual clearly people were searching for cover from the rain.

The barman looked at Yoru as he moved towards him “I have three rooms booked, under Daremo.” Clearly an alias, but he didn’t want to go around and shout that they were here on Konoha business. Though many shinobi passed through here so it likely wouldn’t be too much of an issue.

“Leave your bags here, I’ll take them up to your rooms.” Yoru nodded and gestured towards the bar “Find us a table? I’ll get some drinks, what would you like?”

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Sat Sep 11, 2021 4:03 pm

Of course, by time they arrived at the inn the irony of Minako's words weren't entirely lost on her. Here she was, telling Yoru not to let his own secrets eat him alive, to have at least one person he could tell everything to. Yet she didn't, and she had no plans to do so. She was still so jaded by her own twins death she allowed herself to simply be wrapped up in that grief and nothing else. Once at their destination she simply chuckled at the sight of the rain and shook her head as Yoru lamented his bath. "At least you'll be able to get away from the smell of wet dog... I'm going to have to sleep with it." she remarked, glancing at Rei with a slight frown.

Both Minako and Rei got out of the carriage, with Minako grabbing her luggage which wasn't much. She was glad to get inside, and fairly quickly, though Rei was still pretty wet by then. Much to the disappoint of a couple of other guests just inside the door the dog didn't wait to shake. The moment they were in the door she shook and Minako rolled her eyes. "Damn it, Rei." she muttered, rolling her eyes. She followed Yoru in relative silence, leaving him to take the lead. She left her luggage with him as instructed though as he asked her about drinks she frowned slightly. "Honestly just a hot tea if they have it." she remarked. "Not all that comfortable letting my guard down right now." she admitted.

While he'd go to get drinks, she'd go to find a table for them. She purposely found one with a decent view of the room, and of course near a fireplace so Rei could stretch out and dry off a bit.

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Sat Sep 11, 2021 6:00 pm

Yoru nodded in response to Minako’s drinks order, tea sounded good but he Bannin needed something a touch stronger and in all honesty, tonight might be the last night of his life. If Yaku truly was at the end of this journey, it truly could be the end.

“A beer and whiskey chaser.” He said as Minako went to search for a table “And a pot of hot tea and a bowl of water for the dog, we’ll be over at that table if you can bring the tea over and two menus.” The barman nodded, scribbling down a note and passing it to the young bar wench as she went to make the tea. A shot of whiskey was poured into a tumbler and a cold beer poured. Yoru grasped both between his hands and headed into the crowd looking out for Minako.

There she and Rei sat comfortably by the table, he placed his drinks down on the table “The tea and a bowl of water for Rei are on their way.” His hand wrapped around the glass of cold beer, pushing it against his lips and taking a large gulp, then quickly to the whiskey and downing it in one go. His cheeks filled with air and emptied almost as quickly, slamming the glass down.

A waitress came over with a tray, which had two menus on it, the tea and the bowl of water which was placed on the floor. She placed down the tea and the menus, leaving them to look them over to decide what they wanted to eat.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Sat Sep 11, 2021 6:14 pm

Minako was sitting in silence when Yoru came to the table, simply watching Rei in front of the fireplace. Her mind was swirling with so many memories as she watched her one remaining friend simply rest and try to dry off from the rain. She didn't even budge as he spoke to her, or as the waitress eventually dropped off the tea and the menus. Her left hand drifted to the scar on her side and belly. Though it was covered by her clothes she knew it was there and her fingers traced the hidden scar for a few moments in silence before she turned and glanced at the menu. There were a few things on it. She eventually decided on an udon she normally would have ignored due to price. 'What the hell... we're hunting a prize that's so far out of my league, am I going to survive tomorrow?'

It was then that she realized the serious thoughts that might be plaguing Yoru and she looked at him a moment. "For the record, I trust you." She said suddenly, sighing heavily. "I think I avoided answering you directly when you interviewed me... I do what I'm told, that's what I'm good at, and that's what you need for this. But you wouldn't hold the position you do if the village didn't have faith in you regardless of whatever happened."

Minako picked up her cup of hot tea and leaned back in her seat, simply holding the warm cup in her hands for a moment as she stared into it. "What the civilians think doesn't matter. You don't get where you are without proving yourself somehow. So... yeah. Whatever we find tomorrow, you should know at least one person in this damn village trusts you, Yoru." Minako grinned for a moment. "Fuck me, I don't really know why, maybe it's because my dog seems to like you just fine, but it's true."

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Sat Sep 11, 2021 7:10 pm

Yoru’s single hazel eye gazed through the menu, as he sipped at his beer trying to decide what he wanted to eat. He decided on a side of Takoyaki and a katsu chicken curry. Though he’d need wait for the waitress to come back and eventually take their order. Taking his beer, he took a few large gulps it was halfway gone already.

His face didn’t seem to change as Minako began to spoke, seeming to almost forget herself and who she was speaking to. Not many dared speak to Yoru in that way and certainly not to their commander, she spoke directly and straight to the point.

Once she finished, he smiled softly and looked at Rei “At least someone likes me.” He said with a gentle whistle, to his tone.

He took in her words for a moment, digesting what she said and finished off his beer.

“You shouldn’t.” His words almost whispered out, as though he didn’t want to admit it to himself, but it was true “I’ve done terrible things, things you couldn’t even imagine.” And it was true, he’d done unspeakable things “I got my position because of what I’ve done and what I will do Minako, I’ll do the things no one else dare. Please for your own sake, don’t trust me.” The waitress came over holding a pad and a pencil “Um… am I interrupting? Should I come back.” Yoru’s eye fell upon her “Takoyaki and a katsu chicken curry, beer and another shot of whiskey. Keep the beers coming."

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Sat Sep 11, 2021 7:26 pm

Minako didn't reply to him at first, giving the waitress a kind smile instead as she showed up at the table. "Seafood Udon." she ordered simply. "Something raw and red for my friend." she added, reaching down to run a hand through Rei's fur. "Extra tip in it for you if there's a good size bone in it for her to chew on for awhile." she added. She couldn't help a small frown as she realized Yoru had ordered a good amount to drink but didn't comment on it until the waitress was out of earshot again. "I hope that wasn't because of me." she admitted, sighing to herself.

Rei sat up suddenly and moved to where Minako sat, quickly pushing her head into the woman's lap as if she knew she was needed. Minako smiled down at her almost sadly to start stroking the dog's fur and scratching behind her ears. "You probably already know this, but all I feel for this village any more is anger. My brother and I were sacrificed for nothing. My survival was sheer dumb luck, nothing more."

Minako sighed, lifting her head a moment as she looked at Yoru a moment. "You tell me not to trust you because you think my trusting you means I trust you the way other people do. Don't misunderstand me... I joined this... I agreed to this because I feel I can trust you to do the one thing this village failed my brother on. The day comes you decide I have to be sacrificed, I trust it means something. Even if I am some nameless or faceless in it." Minako shrugged. "That's the only trust I have left for anyone anymore."

It was a morbid sort of life, but in the moment for Minako it was what she had left. She looked down at Rei's face in her lap and grinned for a moment. "Go on." she told her. A moment later Rei left her lap and went to try and stick her nose under one of Yoru's hands instead. "This is why I don't usually drink, I get morbid enough on tea..." Minako suddenly said with a chuckle. "Got any funny stories about growing up around the Hokage? I think I ruined the mood..."

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Sun Sep 12, 2021 8:51 am

The waitress nodded in response to the pair, seemingly glad to be away from the awkward atmosphere. He shook his head in response to his drinking, if he was honest, he wanted to at least enjoy one good night before tomorrow, which could be his last.

He allowed the girl to speak without interruption, waiting for her to finish before he spoke about “One day, you will die for this village so it’s best you don’t hate it.” He said with a morbid chuckle, it was something each shinobi signed up for, to give their life for the village, there was a reason why shinobi had the lowest rate of mortality. They put their lives at risk every day, it was funny to think how Konoha believed themselves to be this noble village of warriors who protect their country and their world, yet they cultivated child soldiers ready for the slaughter.

Soon the waitress brought back a tray of food, drinks and a raw lamb shank for Rei “May I?” he asked Minako, as his fingers grabbed around the lamb shank assuming Minako allowed it he’d drag himself up from his chair towards the fire where Rei was sprawled out holding out the meat in front of her “Good girl.” He whispered softly, stroking her under the chin and placing the meat on the floor and watching Rei lap it up with delight.

Moving back to the table he sat himself down, taking a sip of his beer and nodded with a thank you to the waitress. Taking the chopsticks between his fingers and picking up one of the oval shaped Takoyaki, placing it in his mouth, it was delicious. He chuckled softly as she asked about the Hokage “I did more than grow up around him, he was my sensei.” He admitted, though it wasn’t a secret it certainly wasn’t common information it was such a long time ago “He was a young special Jounin, freshly promoted taking on his first squad, gosh that has to be over twenty years ago now.” Time certainly seemed to pass quick, he was such a foolish boy back then but Takeo still saw something in him and nurtured him.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Sun Sep 12, 2021 10:22 am

Minako shrugged as Yoru mentioned that she shouldn't hate the village. "Hard not to after what happened... but I'm still here, still doing what I'm supposed to be doing. That has to count for something." she remarked, finally sipping at her tea. She finally fell quiet, taking the hint she felt like Yoru was giving and dropping the subject at hand. When the waitress came by and dropped off food, Minako simply nodded as Yoru asked for permission to give Rei her portion. She watched with a fairly whimsical smile as the Bannin fed the dog and Rei took it without hesitation. The dog was more than happy to tear at the raw meat, growling under her breath periodically and clearly enjoying the warmth of the fire along with it.

She picked up her own chopsticks and started poking around at her Udon, picking out some of her favorite pieces to eat. She couldn't help a giggle at one point when she accidentally caught herself in the nose with a stray noodle. It was of course a risk and one that couldn't be avoided. Of course she took pauses to enjoy the broth as well. When he told her about Takeo being his Sensei she simply nodded, unsure if he was going to continue or stop there. She found herself slowly feeling uncomfortable, realizing she had crossed a line and begun to address her superior as she would anyone else.

She sighed to herself, her eyes dropping to her food as she poked around in it a bit. "I'm sorry for speaking out of turn and unprofessionally tonight... I'll keep it to a minimum." she said, after a few moments of awkward silence. She paused a moment to sip on her tea, turning her attention back to Rei who was already down to a bone to gnaw on for awhile. 'I'm an idiot... guess its hard to keep those lines clearer right now...'

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Sun Sep 12, 2021 5:58 pm

He was glad that Minako didn’t continue to press the topic, he wasn’t one for divulging into his own personal problems, at least not anymore, though she had made one good point. Perhaps he did need to find someone, someone he could trust, open up to. Someone he’d have no secrets from.

But who? Where could he even find someone like that? Yoru had long given up on the idea of taking a wife, he had too many secrets to keep anyway. He couldn’t ask someone else to share that burden, no for now he’d carry it himself.

The pair ate their food, and both seem to enjoy it, Yoru shotted his whiskey and waved the glass in the air for another.

“There is no need to apologise, we’re off duty.” He said with a shrug, the outer shell of the Anbu Commander slowly breaking down, he continued to eat his food and finished off the last of his beer as another glass of whiskey was put down on the table “We should probably call it a night after we’ve eaten, we’ve got an early start in the morning.”

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Sun Sep 12, 2021 6:09 pm

Minako simply shrugged as well when he replied to her apology. He may not have seemed worried about it any longer, but she was a little bothered by it. She felt like she'd overstepped more than once over the trip and instead slipped into silence as she at her food, surprisingly managing to eat most of it in spite of the large portion. Though at one point one of her pieces of shrimp was stolen by Rei who thought she was sneaky when Minako had leaned back to simply enjoy her tea. She had let Rei get away with it and Rei seemed to feel victorious over it. But fact was Minako had clearly noticed.

She kept quiet even when she was done, finishing off her tea and only then caving for a small serving of sweet sake to sip on. She had to sip carefully to keep from smelling it, one accidental whiff causing her to wiggle and twitch her nose for several minutes afterwards as if she had some kind of severe itch. But without the drink she wasn't sure if she was going to be able to sleep that night. "Just don't ask me to wake you up if you over-served." Minako commented when they were done and she got up, setting out enough to pay for her food with a light smirk. "A Rei wake-up isn't a pleasant one... her nose always goes to the worst places." she told him.

Rei looked at him and her mouth opened almost as if she were smiling, for a moment the small amount of wolf blood in her seemed obvious before she followed Minako off to her room for the night.

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Mon Sep 13, 2021 4:25 pm

Yoru finished eating his curry and the Takoyaki, savouring every mouthful as though it was his last and it damn well could be. Finishing off his beer, he watched Rei as she got up and excused herself to head to bed.

A chuckle left his lips, and he shook his head “I’ll be careful not to sleep in then, goodnight.” He said softly, stroking Rei gently as she went by, and the pair made there way upstairs to the room.

He was now alone, the roaring fire next to him, the warm glow flickering against his pale white skin “One more.” He said just loud enough for the bar man to hear who brought him over a final glass of whiskey “Will there be anything else sir?” Yoru shook his head, pulling out a handful of ryo to pay for the bill and a generous tip. Of course, it wouldn’t cost Yoru a thing and would go on expenses.

Yoru sat alone for a moment and pressed the glass to his lips, stuck in his own thoughts. Was he truly strong enough to face Yaku? He’d become a formidable warrior in his own right, possibly one of the strongest shinobi in the world, not many could beast him if any. Yet here he was, full of self-doubt and not truly sure if he could go through with it.

He’d let down his guard in front of Minako, she’d seen his weakness but tomorrow the mission would truly begin and he’d need to force this self-doubt away. If Yaku really was at the other end, he’d have to be strong enough to finish him off.

For good.

6:00am and the coach was outside, ready, and waiting.

The sun was low and the rain had stopped.

Yoru slowly walked down the steps of the inn, his bag over his shoulder with his Anbu uniform inside and pushed open the door, heading outside. Perhaps Minako would already be waiting, either way it didn't matter they'd be ready to head out soon.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Mon Sep 13, 2021 5:36 pm

Minako was in the coach already, lounging in one of the seats. Her bag was on the floor up against her bench with her uniform inside as well and she looked like she was already asleep again. Rei however was outside of the coach, nipping at a mouse that kept trying to hide in one of the wheels. She was either toying with it or simply having no luck at all. When she saw Yoru emerge from the building she stopped suddenly, her ears and tail both perking up before she jumped up into the coach and apparently woke up Minako as a sudden curse and tumble could be heard from within.

By time Yoru actually climbed in Minako would be sitting upright and trying to fix a disheveled braid as she glared at her companion who sat beside her as if the dog was pretending to be human. Minako shook her head as she reached into her bag and produced a small box and offered it to Yoru. "Innkeeper gave us these for the departure." she remarked as she offered it. If he opened it he'd find within a few small sweet buns and treats for breakfast. Minako had a second box in her hands already that she hadn't delved into yet.

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Tue Sep 14, 2021 4:16 pm

Yoru stepped into the cart, seeing Rei and Minako were already inside and ready to go. He was glad they were punctual, the Bannin hated lateness. Least he wouldn’t have to deal with that today.

As the sweet buns were offered, Yoru placed his hand up and shook his head “I’m not hungry.” His tone seeming more serious than last night, today was the day of the mission and he’d have to be serious.

“We should get a little sleep whilst me travel, I don’t suspect we’ll be attacked in the desert but we should take it in turns to keep watch. Better to be safe than sorry. If it’s ok with you, I’ll rest first feel free to eat my breakfast or allow Rei to have it.”

He hoped that Minako didn’t take his serious tone personally, for now they were on duty and he had keep a serious approach.

Assuming she was happy to take the first watch, he leaned back in his chair and placed his head against the light cushioning, drifting off into a light sleep. His breathing soft and gentle, with a sporadic snore here and there.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Wed Sep 15, 2021 10:37 pm

Minako frowned as he turned down the box and shook her head, closing it up before setting it back down. "Maybe later, mission on an empty stomach could be just as bad of an idea as on no sleep, eh?" she remarked idly. She sighed and nodded though as he commented about getting some rest and Minako sat up with a good view out of the windows. She put the box in her lap and tapped the seat beside her for Rei to jump up with her. She nibbled on her own sweet buns, periodically sharing one with Rei.

It wasn't long before she heard Yoru drift off into sleep, smiling slightly as she heard him snore here and there. It almost reminded her of her brother, though her brother's snore had always been a good deal louder. She spent most of the time watching the roadside as they passed along, uneventful as could be unless one counted the scenery. The sweetbuns didn't last long, though true to her word she'd left the box for Yoru untouched just in case he changed his mind later. At some point Rei fell asleep, but Minako left her alone. So long as she was awake, the road was watched and she was satisfied with that.

She'd remain awake for her portion of the watch until it was time to wake Yoru, which she'd only do by tapping his leg in case he was the sort to wake up rough. With his past, she wasn't sure he wouldn't wake up swinging.

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Sun Sep 26, 2021 4:48 pm

His breathing heavy, deep into his slumber.

He’d stayed up too late drinking, it wasn’t the amount of drink that was taking effect, but the late night and the early mornings weren’t helping, he’d slept restlessly for such a long time, long before the war. Sometimes the restless nights simply caught up and these short naps somewhat helped.

A white light broke through the darkness, shining directly on to Yoru. Slowly stepping forward, stumbling through the darkness, heading towards the light his hand grabbing through the air trying to grasp at it. He’d had this dream many a time, but rather than the white light turning into a Hyuuga there stood Yaku looming over him.

Yoru reverted back into a young man, a naïve special Jounin who was no match for Yaku. His hands trembled, sweat poured from his brow as Yaku walked towards him, stumbling back, Yoru fell through the darkness as though it was a pit of water.

He gasped for air as Minako’s hand tapped against his leg, waking him from the nightmare.

It took him a while to remember where he was, he sighed softly and just muttered the words “Sorry, just forgot where I was for a moment.” Not wanting to share his nightmare, though he doubted Minako would truly believe it. Perhaps she was right, maybe he did need someone he could talk to, someone who could share the burden. A significant other.

But could he truly do that? He’d become a monster in his own right, hated by his village even his own family. The demon of Konoha, what wife could take that? What children could live in such a way, they’d be hated in association. Ironic, the monster loved the children so much that he didn’t even have yet that he’d want to protect them from such pain, and the way to do that was not to have them at all.

Ironic.

He stomached growled with hunger; he was a stubborn man but not so stubborn that he’d cut his own nose to spite his face. Picking up the box with the buns, taking out one and biting into it and slowly chewing on it. Grabbing another, if Minako would allow it he’d whistle over Rei and feed her one from his hand, it was Yoru’s turn to keep guard and let Minako get some rest when they arrived it would be almost night fall, it was a long journey after all.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Sun Sep 26, 2021 6:32 pm

"Easy, Yoru." Minako's voice was quiet as he startled awake, and her hand remained on his knee for a moment. She didn't think about the use of his name as a disrespect, but rather as a comfort. Her hand grasping his knee lightly, thumb running across it gently as she waited until he seemed to come to fully. When he spoke she removed her hand from him and leaned back away from him again, only nodding in response. She didn't ask him what he had dreamed, she imagined it couldn't be all that different than nightmares of her own she had from time to time. They were unpleasant things and rarely something she wanted to share, she imagined he felt the same.

She didn't remind him it was his turn to keep guard, but she knew he would remember it was. With a few gentle nudges she woke up Rei and coaxed the dog off the bench on her side. Minako stretched out on it and turned her back towards Yoru to face the wall of the carriage. She tucked her arms in and ducked her head to close her eyes and rest. He wouldn't see it, but she could hear him take the box she'd left for him and smirked.

Of course she also heard the unmistakable sound of Rei gobbling one down. She might've rolled her eyes if she had time before she fell into the bliss of sleep herself. It was almost as if she could see her brother's hand reaching out to her to pull her away as her eyes became heavy. Before long her breathing evened out. As the young Inuzuka slept, Rei herself would check on her periodically with a nose against the back of her neck before going back to laying on the floor or trying to steal a few scritches from Yoru.

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Mon Sep 27, 2021 5:45 pm

Yoru listened to Minako’s soft rhythmic breathing, a clear indication that she’d fallen asleep. He sighed softly as Rei cuddled up to his lap, sharing the treats though leaving a few for Minako if she was hungry when woke.

The sun was starting to set, the sky was a vibrant purple colour and the cart came to a slow and steady stop. Arriving in the new territory known as Dragons Breath a land that Yoru had helped take, though he was badly injured in the takeover. Yoru was still disgruntled with the whole ordeal, the Fire Country and Konoha grasped away at far away land and didn’t focus on protecting their own home.

He found the whole war unnecessary and trivial, he hoped nothing would ever happen like that again, Yoru would try to bring a focus of cold war tactics to the world, taking down his enemies with information and manipulation. At least he hoped.

For now, that didn’t matter he had other things to deal with.

“Minako.” He said softly, if she wasn’t already awake “We’re here, mask on.” Peeling off his green haori and black under shirt and slipping on the grey flak jacket, exposing his scarred and wounded body. Pushing on his mask as the cart came to a halt, he slipped out of the kart he’d allow Minako to change in privacy.

A woman, tall perhaps a touch shorter than Yoru, blonde hair in a tight ponytail and a mean look about her wearing a traditional jounin garb stood waiting for him “Commander.” She said with a nod, not the usual distain people had when they greeted him, least when Yoru was undercover they didn’t know who he truly was “I trust your journey was safe, I’ve received a location of the hideout, though I’m not sure why they have sent Anbu I could deal with it myself.” She said confidently.

Yoru simply smiled beneath his mask and nodded, he waited for Minako to come out of the cart before he allowed the woman to continue “It’s in the depths of the woods, apparently a group of lumberjacks found it, a tree was hollowed out and led into a small underground compound." She handed a piece of paper with the coordinates scribbled on to it, Yoru handed it to Minako behind him “Do you have any questions?” he asked Minako “If not, we’ll head out.”

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Mon Sep 27, 2021 5:55 pm

Yoru wasn't the only one who'd awaken with a start. Minako did as well, though hers was more of a sharp intake of breath at this point, one hand gripping the bench with white knuckles for a few seconds before her mind realized there was no blood and the echoing screams of her brother faded from her mind. She grunted with a nod before wiping a bead of sweat from her brow and turning to put her feet down and sitting upright and stretching briefly. Rei of course was at her side quickly, Minako brushing foreheads with the dog. "I'm fine." Minako whispered to her before getting into her bag. She was hardly a modest woman, nor hardly waited for the privacy given to her to change quickly. The large scar on her abdomen was probably visible before Yoru had a chance to slip out.

She pulled on her clothes and mask quickly however and stepped out after Yoru only moments later with Rei on her heels. Under the mask of course she was Ryoshi, and she fell silent behind Yoru as she listened to the briefing given to them by the woman who met them. She glanced at the coordinates and even allowed Rei a smell of the paper before Yoru asked her if she had questions. "No questions, Sir." Minako answered simply.

There would be no forgetting of rank from beneath the mask, it was like the wearing of a new face for her as she followed the ANBU Commander.

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Tue Sep 28, 2021 2:58 pm

Yoru nodded to the blonde Jounin “Thank you for your help.” The Commander turned on his heels and headed to the cart, giving the driver a set of instructions and gestured to the outpost, telling him he could get a drink and food there.

Turning back to Minako “Ryoshi, let’s head out.” Using her code name, as the trio slowly descended into the woods. It had been quite some time since he’d returned to the country and certainly not since the war.

Once they were out of ear shot, Yoru spoke through his mask “Be wary, once we arrive if Yaku is there…. I’m not sure we’ll survive.” It was strange to hear one of the most powerful shinobi in the world speak like this, it showed how much psychological power Yaku had gained on those when he invaded the village all those years ago. Now he was risking Minako’s life and what for? He should face Yaku alone.

He stopped dead in his tracks “I think you should go wait for me at the outpost….” It was clear by his tone this wasn’t an order and was said with hesitation.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Tue Sep 28, 2021 3:10 pm

Minako wouldn't say a word, simply following Yoru as he spoke. She walked into the woods with him and even only nodded as he spoke a warning about Yaku. The woman had faced death before, though her last brush had been without warning. In some ways his comment about it came as a comfort to the woman. At least she felt she had some kind of heads up about it this time. She knew it was a possible outcome, she knew what kind of threat they faced, even as Rei trotted along beside her. Though she was more than a little surprised as Yoru suddenly stopped dead in his tracks.

She walked up beside him and looked up at him through her mask, tilting her head to the side a moment almost as if trying to read his expression behind his own mask and shook her head quickly. "No." she told him. "If I die in this than so be it, Sir." She told him flat out. "I don't fear Death, not anymore. Death to me is just a means of reunion with my brother, nothing more." She looked ahead of them a moment before turning her head and looked at him briefly. "You can give that as an order if you like, and I won't listen either. If I'm to risk my last act being disobeying an order, so be it. I'd prefer risking that, than risking a fellow shinobi dying alone. No reason for that senselessness."

Her mask turned and regarded what was ahead of them for a moment. "My brother died alone."

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Tue Sep 28, 2021 3:21 pm

Yoru didn’t look at Minako as she spoke, though his listened to every word intently it was clear she would listen to him, he chuckled softly beneath his mask “I could have you for insubordination.” He croaked.

Then it dawned on him, she seemed less concerned with her own death but his, dying alone in the depths of the underground compound never to be found again “You barely know me Minako, you owe me nothing and you don’t owe me your life. I won’t order you to leave but…. now’s your chance to, if you want to.”

The choice was hers, stay and die or leave and live.

Though Yoru already knew the choice she’d make.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Tue Sep 28, 2021 3:29 pm

He likely couldn't see it under her mask but Minako grinned wickedly as he made his comment about insubordination. "Oh you could." she replied without looking at him. "Wouldn't that have been more fun for last night though, Sir?" she added. 'Well at least he can't see how much I'm blushing under this damn thing right now...' she laughed to herself and shook her head. 'Guess if I was going to give him sass before this, I decided to go the whole way with it huh? Good lord, if we do survive this I better hope he forgets I said that...'

Even Minako shook her head at herself for that one, grateful as he made comments about her having a choice to leave and the woman shook her head again. "No, I'm going with you." she replied, her voice returning to a more serious note and rather quickly. "I accepted this mission knowing what it was and what the risk was, I'll see it through." She chose to risk the crossing of a boundary then, reaching over to simply put a hand on the man's shoulder and giving it a light squeeze before dropping the hand.

"If you're done trying to talk me out of it, we should get moving." she finally said, a slightly teasing edge in her tone.

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Tue Sep 28, 2021 3:45 pm

Yoru chuckled softly under his mask at Minkao’s joke, though he wasn’t entirely sure it was a joke. Though he was somewhat used to women getting small crushes on him, there was no doubt he was an attractive man, but he was rather set for a specific taste as he was quite effeminate. He didn’t press the matter either way.

He nodded behind his mask as she made her choice, perhaps her final choice.

He didn’t respond but turned on his heels once again making his way through the woods, following the coordinates.

They walked for some time, through the woods a tree out in the distance clearly carved and half cut, looking to Rei to see if she could smell anything. He suspected there would be nothing to smell though.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Tue Sep 28, 2021 3:53 pm

Minako had to resist the urge to breathe a sigh of relief that Yoru didn't take immediate offense to her quip. Dirty jokes came as easily as swearing did for the woman after all, and he was her Commander. But it was also a high stress situation. She was also glad he didn't try to press her again into changing her mind and seemed to finally accept her choice. She'd follow him through the woods with Rei close behind. More than once she'd send the dog ahead to try and catch a scent, but every time the dog would return with a look or a low whine that made it clear she wasn't picking up anything.

"Maybe they've moved on..." Minako finally said quietly at one point. "Seems impossible to smell nothing at all like this... all she's getting is critter activity."

As far as Minako could tell herself as well was that the area was showing no signs of inhabitants other than wildlife. The only shinobi she saw signs of were herself and Yoru. She wasn't sure if her superior was going to be happy or disappointed about that fact though.

TheLacarix · Post by **TheLacarix** » Tue Sep 28, 2021 4:21 pm

Yoru’s gaze followed Rei as she bounded forward sniffing at the ground and the air, seeming to bring no results, though he wasn’t surprised at all. There was no way someone like Yaku would leave a scent.

His hand moved behind his mask, soon after an eyepatch was in his hand. Chakra surged towards his eye, as though wanting to burst from his head and his temples bulged almost hitting the inside of his mask. The stolen eye searched the area, but he saw nothing, there was clearly fuuin protecting the area and a coating of chakra not allowing him to seen through the compound “We’ll be going in blind.”

The eyepatch was placed back over his eye and he adjusted his mask “Watch your step and let me lead, keep Rei back I don’t want her to stumble in to something I can almost guarantee there are traps in here.”

Heading towards the tree, he knelt down looking over a metal grate, pulling it up “Strange that their isn’t a fuuin on the entrance way, though perhaps it was broken some time ago.” There was a long ladder that would lead into the compound. “Let’s take it steady.” He said, weaving a flurry of seals as a platform made entirely of chakra appeared and gestured for Rei and Minako to step on it. He wasn’t sure how Rei would climb down a set of ladders and he didn’t want to risk the dogs legs leaping down such a deep cavern.

Assuming all three of them were on the platform, it would slowly descend until it reached the ground below. There was a tiny bit of light from the entrance way and if Yoru squinted he could just make out the outline of a bed, a bookcase and a desk and on the walls wooden torches that could be lit “Lets get some light in here.” He said to Minako, suggesting that the pair light the torches around the room.

Willoria · Post by **Willoria** » Tue Sep 28, 2021 4:29 pm

Minako had to resist giving him a curious look as he removed the eyepatch, but said nothing. As he instructed her about Rei she turned and 'spoke' to the dog in a series of sounds akin to growls. A moment later and the dog was behind her by only a foot, stepping only where Minako stepped. It was something the pair had practiced as a game when they were children but came in handy on missions that required a more careful touch. The woman stayed quiet still as Yoru opened a grate and she eyed it suspiciously herself. She made a face as he formed a platform but stepped onto it. She wasn't overly keep on heights but said nothing. Rei seemed even less keen but Minako wasn't going to waste time. She grabbed the large dog by the scruff and pulled her onto it and held her there for the duration of their descent.

Once they were below she released Rei and started looking around carefully. She did what she could to strike a light on the first torch she found, struggling a bit as Katon was not one of her affinities and she had no elemental jutsu access anyway. But once she had the first lit with the careful use of rubble rocks and sticks with a bit of luck, just as she'd use in the wild, she used that one to help light others before putting it back and helping to start very carefully searching the room.

"Doesn't seem like anyone's been here in awhile." she remarked, still drawing one of her karambit into a hand just in case.