File: Yagura.jpg (15 KB, 512x287)

15 KB JPG

>>3202626
A few minutes later finds you sitting back inside your living room and sharing a hot cup of tea with Yagura.

“This is a very nice home.” Yagura chimes.

“Uh, thank you.” you mutter.

“I especially like the view of the sea, it must be quite breathtaking at sunset.” Yagura suggests.

“Yes, it actually is very pretty. I like to watch it every day I’m home.” you reply.

Yagura smiles, and you smile back while raising your mug of tea to your lips. Glancing aside, you take note of your red oni mask on the floor beside his blue and white ANBU mask. It was quite strange, seeing a boy who couldn’t be much older than you serving in the ANBU corps. Which raises another question on your mind…

“Why did you take off your mask?” you murmur. “I thought ANBU were supposed to hide their identities?”

“Ah, well I did not think it would be necessary this time.” Yagura chuckles. “And I had been meaning to personally meet you anyway.”

“You have?” you ask. “What for?”

Yagura smiles and places his mug down.

“Everyone I have spoken with has told me that you are loyal to the village. I consider anyone who feels devoted to Kirigakure to be a friend of mine, and someone I’d like to meet. Of course, I also came on business as well…"

Your guest brandishes two familiar looking scrolls and places them down on the table for you.

“With the next Shinobi World War already underway, our venerable Lord Mizukage has decided to give you the choice of two separate missions.”

You smile down at the two scrolls, your sharp teeth glistening in the candlelight of your home.

“Yes!” you cry. “I mean… its an honor.”

“Heh heh,” Yagura chuckles. “The honor is mine.”

Opening the the first scroll, you are presented with a straightforward mission— a clandestine raid on the Land of Fire’s infrastructure, or to put it more bluntly you are being asked to go and raise Hell behind enemy lines. Several targets have been outlined for you ranging from granaries to trading posts and dams, although since this is only a C-rank mission you are expected to avoid any serious military targets and to return home as soon as you’ve destroyed a target or two.

Placing the first scroll down, you unfurl the second and find a wildly different mission— you are being asked to serve in an advisory roll in a joint military venture with another land! Apparently, for political reasons unbeknownst to you, a single company of Ashigaru is being sent to the Land of Lightning to assist them in fighting the forces of Yugakure. Apparently, a single squad of ninja is needed to watch over this company of soldiers and ensure they don’t get TOO involved in what’s going on.

(2/3)

File: Anbu-From-Riki-Village-Fr(...).jpg (147 KB, 640x828)

147 KB JPG

>>3202631
“Excuse me, but there’s something else you should know” Yagura adds. “Since your sensei still hasn’t returned, it has been decided that you and your teammate will work alongside the rest of the Bloody Four and their teachers for now.”

“You mean Junko and Kasumi?” you ask.

Yagura nods.

“Junko and her sensei have already been assigned to the raiding mission, while Kasumi and her sensei are taking the military advisory mission. You’re free to choose which of the two you’d rather take for yourself.”

“Huh, what about Zabuza?” you mutter.

“Your teammate has already been contacted, and he expressed no preference for either mission. He will simply be assigned to whichever one you do not choose.” Yagura replies.

What does Myon do now?

>Take the Raiding mission with Junko?
>Take the Military Advisor mission with Kasumi?
>Write-in?

(3/3)

>>3202632
>Take the Military Advisor mission with Kasumi?

>>3202632
>Take the Raiding mission with Junko?
I want to cut some bitches

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>3202632
>>Take the Military Advisor mission with Kasumi?
PROTECT THE LOLI!! PROTECT THAT SMILE!! PRAISE THE KAGUYA!!

File: e8849a396282105b3a87f4d4d(...).jpg (201 KB, 677x999)

201 KB JPG

>>3202632
>Take the Military Advisor mission with Kasumi?

>>3202632
>>Take the Military Advisor mission with Kasumi?
Eh, we did some stealth last time and only fought cause Zabuza fucked up.

I want some real combat, and let's be honest here, Zabuza and Kasumi together without Myon to keep them in check would end terribly.

>>3202632
>Take the Military Advisor mission with Kasumi?
Zabuza and Junko need to bond over some good old fashioned murderizing

File: 300px-Kaguya_Symbol.svg.png (2 KB, 300x300)

2 KB PNG

>>3202646
>>3202663
>>3202681
>>3202685
>>3202687
>Take the Military Advisor mission with Kasumi?

>>3202661
>Take the Raiding mission with Junko


Looks like Myon's heading north with her little albino friend while Zabuza gets to spend time hiding in the mist with Big Sis Junko.

>Writing

>inb4 we take the military advisor and Anko has a mission to assasinate said officer we advising.

GEE LET'S DO THIS GUYS!

File: Kyoji Uesugi black and white.jpg (15 KB, 301x350)

15 KB JPG

You pick up and examine both scrolls a few more times, considering the ramifications of picking either. In the end however, the prospect of seeing some real frontline combat and the fear of what might happen if Zabuza and Kasumi got carried away together pushes you to taking the Military Adviser mission.

“Very well then.” Yagura nods, collecting the other scroll. “I will relay this information to Lord Mizukage at once. You will be expected tomorrow morning at the docks.”

“Tomorrow morning?” you ask. “That soon?”

“Yes, we don’t want to keep our ‘friends’ waiting too long.” Yagura replies with a frown. “I advise you to watch your back around them. The Cloud Nin are a wild sort.”

You furrow your brow, remembering all too well how the Ninja of Kumogakure attacked your homeland in the last war.

“I will meet with you before you and Kasumi embark, until then.”

Yagura dons his ANBU mask, gives a final bow, and then exits out your patio door. Sighing, you start to wonder just who exactly you’ll end up fighting on this mission. Truth be told, you knew very little what the Land of Hot Water was like or how strong the ninja of Yugakure might be. This mission, like the last one, would be taking you to unfamiliar waters.

“Well, at least I’ll be leaving with a friend…” you say while sipping your tea.

“That is good to hear.”

You spew some of your drink back into its cup as your father suddenly appears.

“I assume you have received your next assignment.” Kyoji drones while crawling through a window. “I see no other reason else why I would spot an ANBU moving away from our home.”

Beating your chest, you glower up at your father and nod in reply.

“Good, I am sure you will do just as well as the last mission.” your father mutters, taking the scroll off the table. “And I see you won’t be going back to the Land of Fire just yet, that is…. also comforting.”

“Hmph!” you grunt back. “So what about you?”

“I too will be leaving shortly, another espionage mission.” your father coolly replies. “I trust you were able to make arrangements for your mother and brother?”

You sigh, remembering how you and your father agreed to ensure the family would be safe while the two of you were gone.

“I spoke with Kasumi just the other day about it….”

(1/2)

File: Kaguya Parasol.jpg (731 KB, 1440x1026)

731 KB JPG

>>3202760
It just so happened that you were able to catch Kasumi one day walking the misty streets of Kirigakure.

“Myon!” Kasumi cried out as you approached. “Its you!”

“Hey there.” you replied, walking over. “Long time no see.”

Kasumi turned to face you with a wide smile, having clearly recovered from the sparring match the two of you held earlier in the week. She was dressed in a rather fine silk kimono and carried a parasol, which you honestly considered a little redundant given the overcast of mist. However, she WAS an Albino so you weren’t about to question it.

“I just bought some treats from that store a few blocks back.” Kasumi chirped, revealing a small basket.

“Huh,” you muttered. “Are those…”

“Strawberries.” Kasumi answered. “Dipped in chocolate.”

You stared at the treats in confusion. Strawberries weren’t native to the Land of Water, and you’d hardly imagine anyone would cover them in candy.

“Heh,” you chuckled. “you have expensive taste."

“Would you like to join me?” Kasumi asked. “I have plenty to share.”

“Sure,” you replied. “I was actually hoping we could talk about something…”

The two of you found a quiet secluded spot in a nearby park to sit down and speak. It doesn’t take you long to reveal what’s been troubling you. With you and your father likely to be dispatched on missions at the same time, it behooved you to find some means of guarding your mother and brother. It was terrifying to think what might happen if more thugs or another ninja tried to harm them in your absence, especially after what happened with the Elder Hozuki. Thus, you banked on your friendship with Kasumi to help in getting a Kaguya clansman or two to guard them for a while.

However, Kasumi seemed skeptical.

“I’m not sure Myon,” Kasumi mumbled. “my family has been looking forward to this war for a very long time. It’d be difficult to convince most of them to serve as bodyguards here when they could be taking combat missions instead. Even if you offered to pay…”

“Could you try and ask them anyway?” you pressed Kasumi. “This is extremely important.”

Kasumi looked away from you, raising a long sleeve of hers to her chin.

“Of course I can try. I’ll try my best, but…”

Falling silent, Kasumi looks over her shoulder and mutters

“Why are you so concerned about your family’s safety?”

What did Myon tell Kasumi?

>Myon told Kasumi that she was simply feeling nervous?
>Myon told Kasumi that she got in trouble with some street thugs, and is afraid they might attack her family?
>Myon told the truth about what happened with Elder Hozuki to Kasumi?
>Write-in?

(2/2)

>>3202772
>Myon told the truth about what happened with Elder Hozuki to Kasumi?

>>3202772
Tell her that there's already been some violence in regards to us making it through the final exam where other people didn't, but don't tell her from who.

>>3202772
And I mean, it doesn't need to be the same people the whole time. The benefit of asking a whole clan is whoever happens to be back from the war at a given moment can get some extra spending money in their time off.

>>3202778
this

>>3202772
>Tell her that, many people were unhappy that only the Bloody Four made it through the graduation exam, and that one shinobi who lost family during the exam has already attacked our home.

>>3202774
>Myon told the truth about what happened with Elder Hozuki to Kasumi?

>>3202778
>>3202789
>>3202795
>Write-in


It sounds like Myon is mostly being honest but leaving out the details of exactly from whom

>Writing

>>3202632
>>Take the Raiding mission with Junko?

File: Kaguya Girl.png (431 KB, 550x650)

431 KB PNG

>>3202789
You fell quiet, mulling over your next choice of words carefully before finally responding to her.

“Ever since we passed the Final Exam, things have been kind of hectic.” you whisper. “Some people have been jealous.”

“Jealous?” Kasumi repeats. “You mean, the families of the students who didn’t pass?”

You nod to her, leaning in closer to reveal—

“My family was already attacked once. They came to my home Kasumi…”

Your friend balks in shock, raising a hand up to her lips.

“Those… those barbarians.” Kasumi whispers. “I’m so sorry. Who did this?”

Kasumi rises to her feet and begins to disrobe, revealing a clean white Gi underneath.

“We’ll go right now. Make them repay the blood they spilled, tenfold!” she cries.

“Kasumi no!” you shout.

Rising up to your feet, you place your hands on Kasumi before she has a chance to take her kimono off.

“Its fine, no one got hurt.” you hiss. “n-None of my family got hurt… I’m just worried they, or someone else might try something while me and my father are away.”

Kasumi stares wide-eyed at you, her expression betraying a hint of some frenzied anger bubbling beneath her fair white face. Slowly, that look fades away and she slowly speaks.

“I’ll talk to my family, we’ll work something out.” she mutters.

“Thank you Kasumi.” you sigh

“No need to thank me.” Kasumi replies. “We are friends, you would do the same thing for me and my family.”

“Of course.” you reply.

...

“I see.” your father drones. “Then I trust she was able to help?”

Your father's words snap you out of your daze, bringing you back to the present inside your dinner room.

“She swore she’d work something out.” you reply. “And I trust her.”

“Excellent.” your father says, rolling up the scroll detailing your mission. “In that case, you should get some sleep now. You have another long journey ahead of you.”

“Right.” you reply.


(1/2)

File: Spoiler Image (65 KB, 800x450)

65 KB JPG

>>3202906
Rising to your feet, you turn to leave the family room when your father calls out again.

“You will be tempted to slay the Cloud Nin.”

“What?” you grunt.

“The Cloud Shinobi, they burned many of our villages to ash. Slaughtered our people like swine.” your sighs. “You will no doubt recall, they were one of many who laid waste to your mother’s village.”

Your hands tighten into fists as you stare back at your father.

“There will come a time when we can fight freely, but it is not now. Not yet.” your father whispers, walking closer to place his hand on your shoulder. “Promise me you will maintain your composure until then.”

“Yes Father.”

You and your father share one last bow before you retire for the evening. You find yourself only capable of sleeping a few hours, as you were not tired to begin with and there is too much on your mind. Still, you are not terribly fatigued when you don your equipment and leave home behind. You are still a little worried for your mother and brother, but remembering Kasumi’s vow helps to settle your concerns.

A quick jaunt later brings you through the streets of Kirigakure, not a place you would ever want tarry after dark. Sprinting through a few alley ways and over a few rooftops, you eventually touch down by the foggy docks where it appears a great many men are hard at work. Various Ashigaru soldiers stand in formation while officers bark orders to march here and there while brawny dock workers load a modest sized ship with crates.

“Wow…” you whisper.

“This is nothing compared to what will happen when our village really goes to war.”

A gruff male voice tears your attention to your rear, where a tall figure emerges from the shadowy mist.

“Who goes there? You grunt, reaching for your sword.

“That is no way to greet your superior, Miss Uesugi.” the man replies. “But I will forgive the trespass, I imagine discipline has been lax between you and your current sensei.”

The figure walks closer, revealing him as someone you indeed recognize. A tall figure dressed in a suit of Kirigakure Flak Armor, walks forward with his hair tipped forward and an eye of his obscured behind a bandage.

“I remember you.” you reply. “You are Ao, the Jonin from the Academy. The one who watched me fight the day before the Final Exam.”

Ao nods.

“For the remainder of this mission, you may refer to me as Sensei. Or Captain, whichever you prefer.”

As you stare at him, you realize that this must make him the current sensei of Kasumi. You had argued once before to Ao that Kasumi was not simply a wild berserker, that she could become a great ninja if she had the right teacher. Ao had evidently took your words to heart.

What does Myon do now?

>Ask Ao how his training with Kasumi has been going?
>Press Ao for more details on your current mission?
>Ask Ao if he’d be able to train you in anything while you’re working together?
>Write-in?

>>3202921
>Press Ao for more details on your current mission?

>>3202921
>Press Ao for more details on your current mission?

>>3202921
>Ask Ao if he’d be able to train you in anything while you’re working together?
Emphasize that these things don’t need to be techniques

>>3202921
>tfw Ao dies early and passes on his stolen byakugan to kasumi, which unlocks the full on all-killing ash bone spear

File: Kasumi Final Form.jpg (93 KB, 819x460)

93 KB JPG

>>3202932
>>3202936
>Press Ao for more details on your current mission?

>>3202958
>Ask Ao if he'd be able to train you in anything while you're working together? (Not Necessarily techniques)

Milking info out of Ao and asking for a little extra training wins.

>Writing

>>3202962
Kasumi with Byakugan given from Ao, her 8 Gates, and somehow her Dead Bone Release unleashed would be the very definition of "Bone Zone"

>>3202995
Not just the bone release, kaguya herself's full on 'touch them and you disintegrate' bullshit, which I have a fan theory is possible to recreate with the right combo of hyuuga and kaguya, in the same way that indra+asura chakra means rinegan. I mean, kasumi would probably not be the right candidate for, but it's fun to bullshit about

File: naruto_world_map_by_driz_(...).jpg (43 KB, 604x633)

43 KB JPG

>>3202995
“So, uh… Captain Ao?” you murmur. “What exactly are we trying to accomplish?”

Ao glowers towards the vessel that is currently being prepared for departure.

“For the duration of this mission, we will be commanding a company of roughly 100 Ashigaru soldiers.” Ao gestures toward what looks to be a squad of spearmen. “These soldiers have all been given special instructions to follow our orders. However, we’re to avoid fighting as much as possible.”

“What?” you grunt. “Avoid fighting?”

Ao turns his glare to you, sending a small chill up your spine.

“The Land of Hot Water is filled with difficult terrain, and the country conveniently surrounds much of the Land of Fire’s eastern border. However there are a few key roads that lead into the Land of Fire, passages through bubbling swamps and easily defended hills.”


Ao brandishes a small map from inside his armor and shows it to you.

“Our village has agreed to help Kumogakure occupy a few chokepoints that lead into the Land of Fire. This will expand the front against the Land of Fire once the Land of Water and the Land of Lightning get serious about fighting against Konoha’s ninja. It is for that reason, and that reason alone, that we are fighting as allies."

“Oh, I get it now.” you smile up at a stone-faced Ao. “This sounds very important…”

“It is.” Ao grumbles. “To Kumogakure. It will help us yes, but if Kumogakure wishes to easily field its forces against Konoha then they will need to fight hard. That is why we are only here in a supplementary role. I don’t want to waste our men’s lives for a battle the Land of Lightning needs to win.”

“So, where are we attacking fir—“

“Myon-san!””

You twist around in the nick of time to catch a small white blur dashing through the mist and into your chest.

“Ack!” you grunt. “k-Kasumi!?”

“We get to be teammates again!” Kasumi cheers. “This is fantastic! You and I together on the battlefield, we’ll be unstoppable together Myon-san!”

Your friend nuzzles against you, overcome with joy. You can’t help but laugh back and return the embrace, although it is quite a mood swing from the sombre tone you were taking with Ao. Speaking of which, Ao is continuing to glare in your direction.

“Miss Kaguya.” he grunts.

“Eh?!” Kasumi’s eyes widen

Your friend disentangles herself from you and drops to one knee before Ao.

“Good morning Sensei, a thousand blessings to you.” she exclaims while bowing her head.

Ao rolls his one good eye and gestures for her to stand up.

“You’re a little late, but so are these men stocking our ship so I’ll forgive it.” Ao groans. “Ah, the ANBU is also here.”

(1/2)

>>3203073
>“Good morning Sensei, a thousand blessings to you.” she exclaims while bowing her head.
>Ao rolls his one good eye and gestures for her to stand up.
Make up your mind goldilocks, you want things formal or you want things informal.

Also, you dropped your name banzai, not that it's TOO important on /qst/

File: Large Wako Pirate Ship.jpg (47 KB, 800x537)

47 KB JPG

>>3203073
The three of you turn to a masked figure who appears in the mist. You can tell by his short stature that he is clearly Yagura.

“Hello everyone.” Yagura announces. “I was just seeing the rest of the Bloody Four off.”

“Hmph.” Ao grunts. “Do you have anything else for us?”

The masked Yagura nods, walks up to Ao, and delivers another scroll specifically to him alone. Ao quickly unfurls it, reads it, and asks—

“What exactly is this?”

“A detonator, empowered with Lord Mizukage’s chakra. Just in case you receive trouble from the Land of Fire’s naval forces. I believe Myon here should be quite familiar with them.”

Yagura chuckles as you realize that this scroll must be capable of setting off the explosives you and Zabuza planted on the naval ships you infiltrated during your last mission.

With pleasantries taken care of, you wait a few more minutes for the rest of the men to prepare your vessel. Once all of the soldiers have come aboard, the three of you walk onto the deck of a single wooden vessel arrayed with large black sails.

“Cap— er, Sensei Ao.” you ask.

“Yes, what is it?” Ao replies

“Since we’re together for a while, would you be able to train me as well as Kasumi?”

Ao stares down at you before giving a curt nod.

"It doesn't have to be any techniques really," you mutter. "I'd be happy with--"

“Once we are out to seas.” he cuts you off. "I will be happy to train you then."

“Yes sir!” you cheer.

It takes a full hour before your vessel is free of Kirigakure’s mist, by which point the vessel freely bobs and weaves along the waves for open waters. After issuing a few orders to some of the crew members, Ao turns to you and Kasumi.

“Kaguya. We will be resuming our meditation lessons.”

You catch a brief look at Kasumi’s frown before she nods.

“Yes Sensei.”

Looking up into the air, Ao points a finger up at the sails.

“Go up there and assume a meditative stance while I command the ship. Myon, you may join her for now.”

You blink at Ao as he turns his back on you and walks off.

“I… I don’t understand.” you mumble. “He wants me to meditate on top of the mast?"

“Oh its easy!” Kasumi says, saddling up against you. “Ao wants us to climb to the top up there and wait for him to attack us. He says its supposed to help teach patience and battle-readiness, so that we never get ambushed.”

“Oh, heh I guess that makes sense.” you chuckle.

Kasumi cups her mouth while leaning up against your ear.

“I honestly think its really boring, but I don’t want to make Sensei upset. Maybe he’ll teach you something cooler later."

>Roll 1d100 for Battle Meditation

(2/2)

>>3203081
whoops, thanks Anon. I dropped the name for a moment to post in a different thread after forgetting to take it off there.

Rolled 13 (1d100)

>>3203087

Rolled 33 (1d100)

>>3203087

Rolled 25 (1d100)

>>3203087
Clear your mind mannnn

RIP in peace

>>3203081
He needs to shitpost anon give him a break

File: f6391b3ef3aaab708dea5e49f(...).jpg (730 KB, 710x1000)

730 KB JPG

Rolled 55 (1d100)

>>3203087
Ah well, can't win them all I guess.

Rolled 98 (1d100)

>>3203087

>>3203101
i was just letting him know
>>3203103
sheesh if you were rolling instead of criticizing me maybe we would have gotten this roll

>>3203103
Oh fuck me guys....

Rolled 3 (1d100)

>>3203093
>>3203096
>>3203098
>33

>Writing

Also rolling for Kasumi

>>3203109
oof

>>3203109
Laughing_shinobi.gif

>>3203109
good ol' kasumi, at least making us look better by comparison

>>3203109
If we do some worse someone is doing it worst.

File: moreshamefurdispray.png (494 KB, 640x487)

494 KB PNG

>>3203109
Ouch

File: Meditation after Battle.jpg (34 KB, 474x355)

34 KB JPG

>>3203109
You smile down at Kasumi.

“Alright, let’s get this over with then.” you say with a smirk

“Yeah!” Kasumi cheers.

Together, the two of you rush up the ships’ masts. With your expert mastery of the Water Walking technique, you are able to deftly walk up the wood in a matter of seconds before coming to a stop atop the mast. The view from the top of this sail gives you a clear view of the mist that swirls around your home village as well as the long coastline that snakes around the horizon.

After enjoying the view, you find your footing atop the mast and breathe in a fresh puff of air.

“OK, this should be just like Soundless Murder technique. Just need to find my center…”

>33
>Failure

Fo what feels like a fleeting moment, you feel hyper alert. You become aware of virtually everything around you, from the groaning of the ship’s frame to the idle chatter of the ship’s crew members. Your eyes are closed, yet you know exactly what’s going on around you.

Unfortunately, that only lasts for a short while. You begin to feel a little thirsty as the sun shines overhead, and the incessant chatter of the men below starts to blur together into nonsense.


>3
>Failure

“YA!” Kasumi cries!

“CAW!”

Your eye wrench open just in time to see a seagull spiral downwards, a kunai embedded into its chest.

“Uh.” Kasumi mumbles. “t-Thought it was sensei…”

You sigh and turn away, closing your eyes to try to fall back into a more alert state.

“Come on, this should be nothing to the Island of Death.” you grumble.

“Dead.”

“Wah!” Kasumi cries

You wrench your eyes open again to see Kasumi hurtling toward the ground. Your heart skips a beat as it appears she will crash land face first, but instead she twirls about and lands on her feet.

“Gods.” you sneer. “That’s—“

“Dead.”

You feel a blunt force smack you in the back of the neck, knocking you off balance. You can see Ao frowning at you as your body tumbles off of the sail and flies toward the wooden deck.

“Damnit!” you shout.

Tumbling through the air, you are also able to fall on your feet and make a safe landing thanks to your chakra control. Standing beside Kasumi, the two of you sigh as Ao hops down as well.

“Not good.” he grunts. “You KNEW I would be coming and you let your guards down after only an hour. That kind of lax behavior can make you an easy target Myon, and you Kasumi. We’ve been at this for weeks now, there’s no reason why it should still be this hard for you.”

Kasumi frowns and mumbles.

“I am sorry Sensei…”

Ao sighs and points back up at the mast.

“Both of you back up there, we’ll try it again.”

(1/2)

File: Ao_young.png (727 KB, 1280x720)

727 KB PNG

>>3203158
The training continues for roughly the entire day. Occasionally Ao has the two of you change locations to a different edge of the ship, but the results aren’t much of an improvement. As night begins to fall, you can’t help but grapple with the frustration that you may have wasted a day of training. Knowing that the Land of Water was only a few days by sea only served to further frustrate you.

“Alright, that’s enough for now.” Ao shouts. “The two of you can rest. We can continue again tomorrow.”

“Ao sensei.” Kasumi says, giving her master a bow. “I was curious if we might be continuing my journey through the 8 Gates anytime soon.”

Ao frowns down at Kasumi and shakes his head.

“Now is not a good time to undertake such training. The Land of Hot Water draws near, and besides…” Ao sighs. “… you are still so young. We have yet to discover if your body can handle more than just the First Gate.”

Kasumi looks disappointed, and a part of you can hardly blame her. You saw first hand just what kind of strength and speed the First Gate could unlock, its very tempting to see what power the other gates could unleash. Yet Ao seems quite firm in holding off such training, you recall how you were able to change his mind. You get the feeling that Ao respects you to some degree, so perhaps he might listen to you again?

If he did listen to you, would it perhaps be possible that he might begin to train you in such a powerful technique?

What does Myon do?

>Accept Ao’s judgement, continue his Battle Alertness training for the rest of the voyage?
>Try to convince Ao to resume the 8 Gates training?
>Ask for a compromise, see if Ao might be willing to teach the two of you something else? (Write-in different option?)
>Write-in?

>>3203160
>Accept Ao’s judgement, continue his Battle Alertness training for the rest of the voyage?

>>3203160
>Ask for a compromise, see if Ao might be willing to teach the two of you something else? (Write-in different option?)
water clone?

>>3203165
>Ask for a compromise, see if Ao might be willing to teach the two of you something else? (Water Clone)

>>3203163
>Accept Ao’s judgement, continue his Battle Alertness training for the rest of the voyage?


Going to need one more vote for the tie-breaker, then I'll likely write one last post for the evening and continue tomorrow.

>>3203160
>>3203165

>>3203160
>>Accept Ao’s judgement, continue his Battle Alertness training for the rest of the voyage?

So on the gates thing, there was some discussion last thread about us trying to learn it because that makes a lot of sense, I agree but don't like the idea. First of all unless we had some kind of weird massive slab of a sword, which could repair itself by some vector, blood of its victims for example, I simply don't think our sword could keep up with the gates.

Secondly a big part of the genre is the whole individualism bit, everyone gets their own techniques and bag of tricks... Kasumi kinda got dibs on the whole gate bit now, you know?

>>3203193
supporting

>>3203163
>>3203193
>>3203210
>Accept Ao's judgement, continue his Battle Alertness training for the rest of the voyage?

>>>3203165
>>3203192
>Ask for a compromise, see if Ao might be willing to teach the two of you something else? (Water Clone Jutsu)


Accepting Ao's judgement wins out!

>Writing

File: Ao's_byakugan_activated.png (1.07 MB, 1920x1080)

1.07 MB PNG

>>3203160
You silently nod to Ao as he lectures Kasumi. There was something to be said about learning more basic abilities before moving onto more advanced techniques. Juzo-Sensei did place a lot of emphasis on learning basically survival techniques in the wilderness before he went on to teach you tactics such as the Hiding-in-Water jutsu. You could only assume Ao was of the same mind.

You and Kasumi retire for the evening before waking up early the next morning and beginning the same training once again after a light breakfast. The journey to the Land of Hot Water seems to drag in comparison to your rowboat ride to the Land of Fire, and for once training doesn’t seem to accelerate the wait.

Even so, despite your earlier difficulties you do feel as if you are beginning to get something of a hang of this Battle Alertness training. The sheer shock of Ao’s surprise attacks grates on your senses, leaving them sharper in the aftermath. As reminiscent of Soundless Murder technique as it seems, the amount of time and patience this involves requires even more focus for longer periods of time.

By the time you near the coastline a few days later, you feel as if you have attained a more-or-less permanent state of alertness.

>Battle Alertness (Novice): Can sense ambushes before they are sprung (+5 to roll)

With sight of the coastline comes the exciting prospect of finally doing battle with Yugakure’s forces. Standing from the tip of the bow, you and Kasumi are one of the first to notice signs of warfare. Black plumes of smoke reach up and stain the blue sky.

“Sensei!” Kasumi cries.

“What is it?” Ao asks.

Stepping up to the bow in front of the two of you, Ao places his hands together and closes his one good eye. He remains fixed like a statue for several moments before making a loud grunt!

"Captain?!" you exclaim. "Are you?"

To your shock, you see several veins pop up through his skin around his eye patch.

“Two, three hundred Ashigaru, and a single Cloud-nin leading them. They already appear to have taken this village. I suppose they are waiting for us, let's go meet them.”


++++


That's all for tonight! I will try to run again tomorrow evening, and will make an announcement on Twitter just before I do.

Thank you for playing, I hope you guys are having fun!

>>3203242
Thanks for running

>>3203242
Thanks for running, enjoy your sleep.

>>3203242
Thanks for running

File: Spoiler Image (79 KB, 600x750)

79 KB JPG

>>3203242
Under Ao’s orders, you and Kasumi disembark ahead of your own men. Walking across the water’s surface, the three of you step across the sandy beach and make your way up towards what looks to be the smoky remains of a conquered village.

Dozens of homes have been burnt asunder, little remaining save for blackened lumber and ash. Here and there lie the bodies of men and women, lying about in pools of blood with their faces frozen into looks of anguish.

“Wow, quite brutal!” Kasumi exclaims. “It looks like it was a slaughter.”

“This is what war looks like.” Ao grunts. “You should get used to the sight of this.”

“Oh I’m sure I will, sensei.” Kasumi laughs. “Its just not what I was expecting fresh off the boat."

You frown at the destruction that has been wrought, absently wondering if this was the same fate that befell your mother’s village or the villages of those who are now refugees back in Kirigakure. The thought makes you glad that you did not have to take part in this…

“Hey, who’s out there!”

Looking aside, you see a handful of soldiers in white armor spill out of one of the few intact huts in the village. They glower at you all with their weapons readied only to immediately back off as you turn to face them.

“Those headbands…” one of them whispers.
“Ninja!” another shouts.
“Wait, those are Hidden Mist headbands. Hey! Are you guys the reinforcements!?” one barks.

“That’s correct.” Kasumi calls back with a smile. “We’re allies, so there’s no need to run or hide. At least for now."

The commotion being made causes several other Land of Lightning Ashigaru to emerge from the opposite end of the village. By this time, your vessel has touched upon the shore and dozens of your own men are beginning to also march into the village.

“Where is the Shinobi commanding your unit.” Ao asks aloud. “Anyone? Any commanding officers?"

Few of the Ashigaru give more than a few dull stares and grunts. Meanwhile, there appears to be a commotion from the large crowd of Ashigaru further toward the edge of the village.

“Bah,” Ao grumbles. “This is why I don’t like fighting beside conscripts. Always disorganized."

“Hey!” an Ashigaru bellows. “Someone go get the Master!”

“The Master?” you whisper under your breath.

“He’s already here!” another shouts back.

The rabble before you falls quiet, with nothing but the burning of embers breaking the silence.

“Am I the meanest?!” a single male voice howls.

“SHO’NUFF!” the mob of soldiers bellows in unison.

“Am I the prettiest?!” the voice yells once more

“SHO’NUFF!” the Ashigaru cry, louder this time.

“AM I the baddest mofo low-down ‘round this town?”

“SHO’NUFF!” everyone of the soldiers now shouts.

“Well who am I?”

“SHO’NUFF!”

“Who am I?”

“SHO’NUFF!”

“I can’t, hear you.”

“SHO’NUFF!”

(1/2)

File: dragontiger.jpg (51 KB, 400x287)

51 KB JPG

>>3204684
The horde of soldiers opens up before you, revealing a single figure standing in the midst of all this chaos. It is a tall dark skinned man with wild black hair who is draped in Tiger pelts and wears a pair of sunglasses along with a red kimono of sorts. By his waistband is a katana and wakizashi pair, and hanging from the scabbard of the Katana is what looks to be a Kumogakure headband.

“Oh my,” Kasumi whispers. “Who is this?”

“SHO’NUFF!” the horde shouts, causing Kasumi to recoil back a step.

“Absolutely ridiculous.” Ao grumbles, taking a step closer.

Sho’nuff, the apparent leader of this battalion of Ashigaru, swaggers over to you all with a confident sneer. Unsure of what to make of this, you step forward as well beside your teammate and squad captain.

That is, until Sho’nuff takes off his sunglasses and the two of you make eye contact. That brings you to a sudden halt.

“Myon-san?” Kasumi whispers. “What’s wrong?”

You find your gaze traveling across the the tiger pelts that adorn this man once more before settling your gaze onto his. He looks to be staring right back at you with the same intensity, and in that moment it feels as if no one else is there. No burnt village, no soldiers, not even Captain Ao or your friend Kasumi.

Its just you… and the tiger.

What does Myon do?

>Rush forward and slash him with your sword!
>Bait him closer and cut him down with Iaido-Draw Technique!
>Attempt to catch him off-guard with Revolving-Flying-Sword Technique!
>Do not hold back, try to destroy him at once with Dragon-Hammer-Flash Technique!
>Use Hiding-in-the-Mist technique and then move in close with Soundless Murder Technique!
>Something does not feel right… you need to get a grip!
>Write-in?

(2/2)

>>3204691
>>Something does not feel right… you need to get a grip!

>>3204691
>Something does not feel right… you need to get a grip!

>>3204691
>>Something does not feel right… you need to get a grip!
>>"Nice try jackass. Someone already beat you to the punch with that technique, and I got to say, your complete shit compared to them."

>>3204719
Myon doesn't curse like that. If you do a write in, stay in character.

>>>3204691
>Something does not feel right… you need to get a grip

>>3204691
>>Something does not feel right… you need to get a grip!

Someone once said that the greatest show of loyalty is to obey orders you do not understand, that same someone also seems to have expected something akin to this.

>>3204732
Dude, he's hardly clean mouthed, it's perfectly IC for her to curse.

File: GOTTA GET A GRIP.jpg (1.71 MB, 1136x639)

1.71 MB JPG

Rolled 54 (1d100)

>>3204699
>>3204715
>>3204719
>>3204732
>>3204748
>Something does not feel right... you need to get a grip!

>Roll 1d100 to GET A GRIP

Also rolling 1d100 for Sho'nuff to get a grip

Rolled 65 (1d100)

>>3204732
I'd have to totally disagree with you

>>3204752

File: 1eb8b6d97d4550bf42c2567c1(...).jpg (143 KB, 853x1000)

143 KB JPG

Rolled 76 (1d100)

>>3204752

File: Junko's Smokes.gif (165 KB, 500x303)

165 KB GIF

I believe Myon has sworn quite a few times, although she tends to swear more when she gets worked up.

I'd say she got that from Junko

Rolled 52 (1d100)

>>3204752
Foe Sho

>>3204756
>>3204761
>>3204771
>76

>Writing

File: my nigger.jpg (41 KB, 1033x679)

41 KB JPG

Also, didn't say it before, this motherfucker is hilarious. I hope he lives to become the new Raikage.

File: 739c89584b59913d590865e29(...).jpg (198 KB, 811x985)

198 KB JPG

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEL0cic2_dw

You exhale a hot breath from out of your Oni Gas Mask as you tighten your fists and crack your knuckles. This tiger growls as it slowly makes its way over, its mere presence filling you with loathing.

Then, just as you start to reach for your sword, you freeze up. In a brief second of disgust, you wonder if its fear that’s slowing you down but then you realize that is not the case. You aren’t back on the Island of Death, you’re in the land of Hot Water. You’re supposed to be fighting on behalf of your village not caught up in…. in whatever this is supposed to be!

You gotta get a grip!
>76
>Success!

Your gasmask makes loud echoing noises as you become more and more aware of your ragged breaths. Your nostrils inhale the scent of ashes and you see the village once more.

“Myon-san.” Kasumi whispers. “Are we about to fight? Now? I will if you will.”

Alongside Kasumi’s voice, you hear your father’s words

“You will be tempted to slay the Cloud Nin.”

Shaking your head, you take a step backwards.

“Promise me you will maintain your composure.”

Was that it? Were you really about to fight this Sho’nuff just like that? Is your hatred that strong?

“I must be crazy.” you sigh. “Whatever, I’m not breaking my promise…"

>54
>Success?

“Master please!” a poor poor Ashigaru begs. “These shinobi are our allies! Lord Raikage will—“

“WA~SHAAAA!” Sho’nuff screams.

Your eye’s widen as Sho’nuff delivers a kick at the speed of a lightning bolt, knocking his own soldier off of his feet and flat onto his back.

The two of you lock eyes once more, and through the absurdity of it all you manage a small smile.

“You there, in the dragon skin.” Sho’nuff says, raising a finger to you.

“Dragon skin?” you chuckle back. “What the Hell are you talking about?”

Kasumi, her hand still on your shoulder, reaches closer and tugs at your leather jacket.

“I have the feeling you got something to say.” Sho’nuff growls.

“No, I got nothing to say to you… jackass.”

Sho’nuff takes another step closer, but is stopped by a hand on his shoulder.

“If you take one more step toward that girl it will be your last.”

Your heart skips a beat as you see Ao, veins popping once more around his eyepatch, gripping Sho’nuff by his shoulder with one hand and raising a first with the other. Glancing around, you see that the rest of your Ashigaru soldiers have arrived on your side of the village while Sho’nuffs men have all assembled on the other side. EVERYONE here seems enraged… except for Kasumi, she looks to be giddily smiling at the moment.

(1/2)

File: sho_nuff_by_madwicked_d48(...).jpg (101 KB, 737x1085)

101 KB JPG

>>3204864
“BAH!” Sho’nuff grunts, ripping his shoulder out of Ao’s grasp. “I didn’t come here to play in no kiddy pool. As a matter of fact, I was starting to get tired of waiting but now that you’re here we can finally get this party started.”

“How many more villages?” Ao sneers, his face returning to normal. “And how much resistance is expected.”

Sho’nuff puts his sunglasses back on and begins to explain the situation to Ao while everyone else starts to relax. Much of his action report is lost on you as you try to cool yourself off, Kasumi kind enough to open up her parasol and give the two of you some shade.

It appears that there is one more key village that Sho’nuff needs to take for the Land of Lightning. A few of his peers have already secured some other chokepoints, but Sho’nuff’s next target is expected to see some heavy resistance. Now that you have come here to back him up, its time for his army to head out once again.

“Myon, Kasumi.” Ao says. “I want you to stay on complete guard at all times, just like we practiced.”

“Yes sensei.” Kasumi replies

“Yes captain.” you nod.

Ao looks over his shoulder at a platoon of Lightning Ashigaru who are assembling some kind of supply wagon.

“I am going to be at the head of the battalion with Sho’nuff. We are going to scout ahead slightly, that way if there are any Hot Water forces we’ll be able to spot them before they spot us. Until I report otherwise, you two are to screen our flanks."

“Sensei, how likely are we to run into Yugakure nin?” Kasumi asks.

“Its far more likely that Sho’nuff and I will run into them first.” he replies. “If you do encounter enemy nin, I want you to fight smart or fall back. Understood?”

“Yes Sensei!”

You rub the back of your neck and wonder just how likely it will be that this mission of yours gets a post-upgrade to B Rank just like your last one. However, you have little time to consider such a likelihood when your forces begin to march. The battalion moves away from the ruined village and down a single narrow road. The terrain is forested and the air is slightly hazy, although nowhere near as misty as your home village.

“Myon, are you sure you’re ok?” Kasumi asks

“Heh, yeah… I’m fine.” you reply.

Kasumi smiles as the two of you watch the battalion march.


What does Myon do now?

>Stay close to the battalion, keep a watchful eye over your own forces?
>Head a little further into the woods, try to keep a closer eye out for the enemy?
>Go further into the woods, perhaps you’ll be more likely to spot the enemy that way?
>Write-in?

(2/2)

File: 24623553662_e960dcb5bf.jpg (36 KB, 480x480)

36 KB JPG

>>3204797

Glad you like him anon!

>Raikage Sho'nuff

Heh, well just about anything can happen in this timeline.

>>3204869
>Go further into the woods, perhaps you’ll be more likely to spot the enemy that way?

>>3204869
>Head a little further into the woods, try to keep a closer eye out for the enemy?

Ao DID tell us to screen the flanks. We gotta move a bit out there.

>>3204869
>>Go further into the woods, perhaps you’ll be more likely to spot the enemy that way?

>>3204869
>Stay close to the battalion, keep a watchful eye over your own forces?

>>3204903
>>3204917
>>Go further into the woods, perhaps you’ll be more likely to spot the enemy that way?

>>3204911
>Head a little further into the woods, try to keep a closer eye out for the enemy?

>>3204933
>Stay close to the battalion, keep a watchful eye over your own forces?


It seems Myon wants to find the enemy before they find her.

>Roll 1d100 for Reconaissance

Rolled 20 (1d100)

>>3204952

Rolled 49 (1d100)

>>3204952

Rolled 87 (1d100)

>>3204952
inna woods no jutsu

>>3204963
>>3204966
>>3204967
>89
Clutch roll

>Writing

File: Land_of_Hot_Water.png (1.9 MB, 1912x1080)

1.9 MB PNG

>>3204975
You and Kasumi watch over the marching army for a short while, rushing up and down the main body of soldiers by hopping from tree branch to tree branch. It was on one hand rather impressive to see so many people geared for war, but on the other hand…

“They’re moving sooooo slow.” Kasumi huffs. “I feel like I could’ve run to the village and back by now.”

“Yeah,” you grunt. “I guess this is taking a while…”

Aside from the pace, you also didn’t particularly like just sitting around and waiting for something to happen. A part of you wanted to seek out the enemy first.

“Kasumi, lets go further off into the woods.” you say. “See what we can find.”

“OK!” Kasumi cheers. “Lead the way.”

Leaving the Ashigaru soldiers to their march, you and Kasumi break away from the battalion and go deeper into the forests.

>87
>Great Success!


You’ve only gotten a lay of the land from maps before, but your survivalist training on the Island of Death has taught you quite a lot about how to traverse odd terrain. Climbing high up the tall trees, you show Kasumi how to quickly traverse to higher ground where you are able to see far and wide. It is while scanning the countryside from near the top of one of the tallest trees, that you are able to finally find the enemy!

“Over there!” you shout.

Pointing a finger to a small forest clearing several miles away, you mark out where there appears to be a struggle unfolding. You see several figures darting through the woods, twirling around and flashing what appear to be steel weapons. The familiar dint of gray flak armor and stripes of what appear to be a tiger are easily seen amongst the blur of masses.

“Sensei Ao.” Kasumi cries. “Wow, look at him go!”

“And that has to be Sho’nuff too.” you mutter. “I guess they ran into the enemy.”

“And far ahead of our column of Ashigaru.” Kasumi notes. “Maybe if we push our men forward, we can help them overwhelm the enemy ninja and get there before the Hot Water Ashigaru arrive!”

“Wait, where is the Hot Water Ashigaru?” you ask. “Are they really that far ahead?”

You scan the area a bit more intensely, cursing your inability to see through the foliage. As you are looking, you suddenly hear an explosion!

“What was that?!” you ask.

“A bomb?” Kasumi wonders.

“No wait, look over there!” You shout.

(1/2)

>>3204691
>>Get a grip

File: 1024px-Crepuscular_rays_a(...).jpg (191 KB, 1024x657)

191 KB JPG

>>3205064
It was no man-made explosion at all. A gush of hazy hot mist steers your attention to another clearing in the woods over beside what appears to be a geyser! You hop over several trees away and then jump high into the air, giving you a clear view.

You spot a much rockier area devoid of trees but filled with hot geysers, and more importantly there appears to be a mob of Ashigaru rushing through under the cover of rocky outcroppings.

“They’re trying to flank us!” you cry. “A whole bunch of them.”

“Really?!” Kasumi asks. “They must really know the area well if they’re maneuvering past scalding hot geysers!”

“Well, this is their homeland…”

Armed with the knowledge of exactly where the enemy is, what will Myon do now?

>Immediately engage the Ashigaru with Kasumi before they have a chance to emerge from the difficult terrain?
>Go back to your own Ashigaru with Kasumi and rally them to attack the enemy’s Ashigaru?
>Warn your own Ashigaru before heading out to fight the enemy’s Shinobi with Kasumi, Ao, and Sho’nuff?
>Write-in?

(2/2)

>>3205067
Damn, I forgot to refresh the tab...
>>3205074
>>Go back to your own Ashigaru with Kasumi and rally them to attack the enemy Ashigaru
Cap’n said fight smart, strength in numbers

>>3205074
>Go back to your own Ashigaru with Kasumi and rally them to attack the enemy’s Ashigaru?

>>3205074
>Go back to your own Ashigaru with Kasumi and rally them to attack the enemy’s Ashigaru?

>>3205074
>Immediately engage the Ashigaru with Kasumi before they have a chance to emerge from the difficult terrain

Lets soften them up before our own Ashigaru get here.

File: 42f63c735600e191bb893428e(...).jpg (162 KB, 605x825)

162 KB JPG

>>3205074
Immediately engage the Ashigaru with Kasumi before they have a chance to emerge from the difficult terrain?

>>3205082
>>3205085
>>3205106
>Go back to your own Ashigaru with Kasumi and rally them to attack the enemy's Ashigaru?

>>3205126
>>3205143

>Immediately engage the Ashigaru with Kasumi before they have a chance to emerge from the difficult terrain

Close Vote, but it looks like Myon and Kasumi are regrouping with their soldiers before engaging in battle!

>Writing

File: Ninja Ambush Takeda Samurai.jpg (121 KB, 736x530)

121 KB JPG

>>3205163
You and Kasumi watch the slow approach of these squads of Ashigaru from a distance for only another moment before springing into action!

“Let’s go!” Kasumi says, stepping toward the end of her tree branch.

“Wait, not yet!” you cry, grabbing her by the wrist.

“We need to regroup, get the rest of our soldiers, and fight them all together.

Kasumi looks back and forth between you and the enemy soldiers before nodding.

“Right, together.” she whispers.

The two of you rush back through the woods at breakneck speed, moving through difficult terrain with ease before flying through the underbrush atop a boulder overlooking your men.

“We’ve found the enemy!” you shout. “They’re coming right this way, through the woods!”

Your shouting brings the marching column of soldiers to a halt, many of them looking up at you in confusion.

“Everyone get in formation!” Kasumi shrieks. “We'll lead you right to them!”

Kasumi’s scream catches you off guard with its high pitch, but with her help you’re able to whip the Ashigaru into action.

“What are we waiting for?!” a Land of Water Ashigaru shouts. “Let’s slaughter 'em!"

The battalion roars in agreement, raising their axes and spears up into the air. It takes only a few minutes to get the whole horde of them at your back, and together you and Kasumi lead the warriors off of the road and into the woods. Its difficult to work your way through the underbrush, but with a few slashes with your sword or Taijutsu strikes from Kasumi is enough to clear the way for you and your men.

Roughly fifteen minutes later, you all arrive near the edge of the forest where you can hear another explosion of hot water bursting from the earth. There appear to be a great many of them from where you stand, their armor glinting in the few rays of sun that pierce the tree tops.

“Is that everyone?!” one of their number calls out.

“Pipe down you fool, they might hear us!” Another cries back.

“Don’t worry, the enemy should still be…”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yvqj49m1Yxk&t=1030s

That enemy soldier never finishes his train of thought as you and Kasumi emerge from the foliage, several hundred men eager for battle just behind you.

“There they are!” Kasumi cries. “Attack!”

>Roll 1d100 to charge the enemy!

Rolled 26 (1d100)

>>3205231
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvQ-imfktLQ

File: 6bbd5e291b3a295bb2c0657bf(...).jpg (239 KB, 590x1000)

239 KB JPG

Rolled 90 (1d100)

>>3205231

>>3205240
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dUmEH-EPDYg

Rolled 42 (1d100)

>>3205231

File: Guts Blood.gif (1020 KB, 500x375)

1020 KB GIF

Rolled 67, 65 = 132 (2d100)

>>3205233
>>3205240
>>3205245
>90

Also rolling for Kasumi

File: battousai.gif (653 KB, 400x300)

653 KB GIF

Bloody Four gonna earn that nickname

File: 7 Samurai Rain Charge.jpg (133 KB, 800x450)

133 KB JPG

>90
>Great Success

Without hesitation, you burst forward ahead of your battalion and unsheathe your sword. The handful of enemy soldiers in front of you had no time to react, no chance to do little more than stand up and scream before you fell upon them. With only a few swings of your sword, you create several new geysers of blood as you cut these soldiers to pieces!

“AIIIIIEEEEEE!!!” a soldier screams, falling before your blade.

You wade further into the enemy line, literally cutting your way through just as you cut your way here through the leaves earlier. Abandoning your own men, you find yourself cut off from support as you kill more and more enemy soldiers.

“Incredible,” you think to yourself. “they’re moving so slow, or am I so fast?"

A smile blossoms underneath your oni mask as a bloody mist envelops your body.

“I feel invincible!” you growl. “Take this!"

You hack and slash again and again until you find yourself more-or-less surrounded by mounds of corpses with the next score of opponents hesitating to approach.

>67
>Success

“HiiYAAA!”

Looking over your shoulder, you watch as Kasumi leaps over several startled Ashigaru, tumbling behind them to deliver several lightning quick punches and kicks while their backs are turned. For a moment, you are worried that she might have overextended herself by coming this far out as well. You’re about to disengage your current foes to assist her, when you hear her shout—

“Gate of Opening!”

Kasumi disappears, over a dozen Ashigaru withering back as if hit by a gust of wind.

"Ha ha ha ha!" Kasumi cackles.

You watch as Kasumi suddenly flashes into your field of vision, her fist punching through an Ashigaru's armor and straight into his gut.

"I've been looking forward to this!" Kasumi laughs, twisting her fist into the man's gut.

Disappearing from your field of vision, you hear her laughter echo across the battlefield as more and more men are slain by the two of you.

"t-These children." an enemy soldier stutters. "They're demons!"

“FALL BACK!” another enemy soldier shouts

“There’s nowhere to fall back to!” his comrade shouts. “We’ll never make it back alive like this, not through those geysers!”

“We have no choice!” another of their number cries. "For the Shogun!"

You exhale, glaring back at what remnants remain of the enemy force. You alone were able to slay dozens of them, and Kasumi herself is also happily beating their men to death with her bare hands. With several hundred Ashigaru backing you up and surrounding them, there is no chance they could win.

Yet, they continue to fight.

What does Myon do?

>Slay them without mercy, such is war
>Give them an honorable death in combat
>Try to call out for their surrender
>Let your own men finish them off, let them earn some glory as well
>Write-in?

>>3205332
>Slay them without mercy, such is war
practice makes perfect

>>3205332
>Give them an honorable death in combat

>>3205332
>>Let your own men finish them off, let them earn some glory as well

File: bdf6f713615f6cd76263b5a24(...).jpg (159 KB, 1000x1000)

159 KB JPG

>>3205332
>Give them an honorable death in combat
Looks like Myon got to vent some of that anger and Kasumi is cute as always.

File: Samurai Mask.jpg (23 KB, 236x333)

23 KB JPG

>>3205339
>Slay them without mercy, such is war

>>3205340
>>3205346
>Give them an honorable death in combat

>>3205342
>Let your own men finish them off, let them earn some glory as well

It looks like Myon wants to give them one last shot at glory before she sends them to the afterlife

>Roll 1d100 to finish them off!

File: aec516ed5142073a6005a6cf3(...).jpg (133 KB, 500x1000)

133 KB JPG

Rolled 31 (1d100)

>>3205356

Rolled 7 (1d100)

>>3205356
Hitokiri Myon Uesugi

Rolled 26 (1d100)

>>3205356

well shit

>>3205357
>>3205359
>>3205388
>31

>Writing

I like to imagine absolute worst case scenarios when a roll goes badly so i've got something to go "well at least it wasn't that."

With that in mind
>inb4 we run into Hidan

>>3205420
worst case scenario would be Orochimaru

>>3205422
I mean if we're going with COMPLETELY unrelated worst case scenarios at least orochimaru might decide he wants to see our effect on Anko. WORST case scenario, completely unrelated to the situation at hand?
The Yellow. Fucking. Flash.

File: f1abb605399d478aed5bd9c86(...).jpg (312 KB, 626x1000)

312 KB JPG

>>3205420
I numb the pain of low rolls by remembering that the worst case is always the QM vanishing without a word and the quest never receiving a proper ending.

Welp.
I guessing we're getting a lesson in not offering people fair fights.
This is a good lesson, and a very reasonable one for an overconfident young ninja to experience.

ninjas and honor don't mix

>>3205503
we're also a swords...person though.

File: Ashigaru Soldiers.jpg (58 KB, 474x614)

58 KB JPG

>>3205433
You heft your sword over your shoulder and slowly approach the last organized throng of enemy soldiers.

“If you’re so eager to fight, then get ready.” you growl. “Cause here I come.”

Even though they are your enemy, you feel that killing them as they are would leave a bad taste in your mouth. You’ve had your fill of slaughter, what you desire now is a more even fight. Achieving a few more kills that you can feel proud of and perhaps giving them a gift of a righteous death.

“Its more than most would give you.” you grumble while sheathing your sword. “Now fight!”

>31
>Failure

“BANZAI!” the soldiers cry, charging forward with all manner of weaponry.

Stepping aside, you dodge past a crossbow bolt that would have pierced right into your chest. Waiting just at the right moment, you allow a burly Ashigaru with an axe to stomp right up close.

“IAIDO-DRAW-JUTSU!”

Your sword flies out of its scabbard and slices right through the man’s armor, nearly cutting him in two!

“FOR THE DAIMYO!” another soldier shouts.

Your eyes widen as the next Ashigaru suddenly charge up from right behind the one you just slew. Using the technique Juzo-sensei taught you, you’re able to slam your scabbard into this one’s face and break his nose before he can carve into you with his own sword.

“GAH!” you cry out.

Staggering back you look down in shock at the arrow that has hit your stomach.

“Damnit!” you hiss.

“She’s weak, let’s-GACK!”

Without wasting another moment, you charge ahead and slice through an enemy soldier’s throat. Shoulder-checking him to the ground, you rush headlong into the rest of the enemy line.

The final bout is short and bloody, but in the end you are the last ninja standing.

“Myon-san!” you hear Kasumi shout.

Sighing, you slowly sheath your sword as your little friend appears in front of you. Her white Gi has been stained red with blood, and her fists themselves are completely coated red and dripping blood.

“You’re hurt!” she says, pressing her hands around your waist.

“Ah, yeah. j-Just a little.” you grunt.

Reaching down to the arrow, you firmly grasp the shaft and grit your teeth as you rip it out.

“Myon-san!” Kasumi shouts louder yet.

“Ack, its fine.” you sigh. “The silk straps, it feels like they stopped the arrow from going too deep.”

“o-Oh, good!” Kasumi chirps. “I was worried for a moment, but I guess I really shouldn’t.”

Kasumi laughs and you crack a smile back at her. It takes some effort to not show the pain you’re in as the adrenaline wears off. All in all, you walked away with a few cuts and bruises that hopefully won’t slow you down for the rest of the mission.

>Myon has been slightly injured!

(1/2)

File: Strange Necklace.jpg (26 KB, 736x736)

26 KB JPG

>>3205538
“h-Hey, you… Kunoichi…"

You flinch and grip your sword, turning aside to see an Ashigaru lying on his back and gripping a gash in his armor. A mortal blow you had delivered only a few minutes ago.

“This one’s still alive.” Kasumi whistles. “Tough guy. What can we do you for sir?"

To your surprise, the Ashigaru smiles.

“t-This… this is a good way to die…” the man coughs while reaching into his armor. “I want you… to have this…”

Slackening your grip on your sword, you watch as the Ashigaru brandishes a pair of necklaces from within his armor. The symbol on both necklaces appear to be an upside-down triangle, although the meaning of the symbol is lost on you.

“For us? That’s very kind of you.” Kasumi smirks, reaching down and grabbing a necklace.

“Hmph. I accept.” you say while grabbing your own necklace.

You’re not sure what possessed this man to show you such a courtesy, but you can only assume he understood what you were doing earlier by trying to give him an honorable death. Despite the injuries you have suffered, you find this last act a little touching.

“p-Praise… Ja—ahhhhh…”

With that, the enemy soldier passes away.

“Rest in peace.” you mutter, turning your back on him.

With the battle concluded, you and Kasumi lead your victorious troops away from the bloody geysers and back toward the road. Upon finding the beaten path, you run into Ao and Sho’nuff.

“Sensei!” Kasumi exhales, dropping to a knee. “We’ve won! We crushed the enemy!”

The few hundred Ashigaru behind you roar and raise their weapons behind Kasumi.

Ao nods to his student.

“We defeated the enemy Shinobi as well.” he says, rubbing the temple beside his eye patch.

“Just. Like. That!” Sho’nuff shouts, raising a fistful of Yugakure headbands. “These so-called Shinobi, oughta consider retirement after an ASS WHUPPIN like that!”

Ao rolls his one good eye.

“Let’s not get carried away, we still need to occupy that village. By nightfall if possible. Everyone get ready to move—"

“WHO’S THE MASTER!” Sho’nuff shouts, pumping his fist of battle trophies into the air.

“SHO’NUFF!"

Ao sighs and waits for Sho’nuff to finish up his spiel before getting the battalion on the move once more. Its another long walk, with your fatigue and bruises from the last battle slowing you down to the same pace as most of the fighting men. By the time the sun is beginning to set, you finally catch sight of the village you are to target.

You’re about to steel yourself for what you believe may be a massacre, when suddenly a group of villagers approaches.

“Most esteemed and honorable warriors of Lightning and Water.” an elderly man addresses you all. “On behalf of our humble town, we surrender!"

(2/2)

>>3205543
Myon finds religion?

>>3205543
That's all for tonight! I think I will likely continue again on Sunday, but I'll be sure to give a quick heads-up on Twitter when I do for sure.

>>3205420
>>3205422
>>3205430

>I like to imagine absolute worst case scenarios when a roll goes badly so i've got something to go "well at least it wasn't that."

That sounds like a dangerous running gag that would happen should you guys ever get on a Critical Failure rolling spree.

>How many S-Rank Enemy Nin can we summon in one encounter? Let's find out!

>>3205433
Daw, I ain't going nowhere Anon. I have too much fun running this game, and I hope you guys feel the same way.

>>3205551
That'd be interesting to see.

>>3205560
thanks for running

File: e2dd754d580b2f88feb0bb2ee(...).jpg (491 KB, 1000x1000)

491 KB JPG

>>3205560
Thanks for running!
It's always worth to stay up for this.

so what would have been different had Myon just butchered them?

>>3205600
Myon would have relentlessly finished them off without giving them a chance to recover or anything and without saying a word to them.

And then I would have just let you guys win the rest of the battle without needing to roll.

File: b1ec5b08378ae42746d1b61de(...).jpg (545 KB, 600x849)

545 KB JPG

>>3205600
We wouldn't have gotten sweet friendship necklaces

File: c481ae78b6f7200bdb524ccb4(...).jpg (34 KB, 474x729)

34 KB JPG

>>3205565
>>3205594
And thanks for playing!

>>3205607
Aw yeah, that too

Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>3205560
>How many S-rank enemy nin can we summon in one encounter?
Let's find out!

>>3205608
Oooh, that's some great art

Idea for Kasumi's eventual nickname if she survives the war and the kaguya revolt

Hungry Ghost of the Mist

>>3205420
Maybe we'll meet him while he's a teen or a kid, this Is a while before Naruto. (Or was he one of those ancient immortal types, I can't remember.)

>>3205433
y-yamate anon sama I-It hurts

>>3205551
It would be Interesting If we picked up Jashinism, but we'd have to go missing Nin to do It.

>>3205608
Thanks for running Banzai, until next time.

>>3207668
Immortal, not ancient, but presumably was already well established by the time of the third war since hot water demilitarized not long after. Probably a young man right now, not necessarily jonin yet but probably jonin level and going to get the rank during the war if he hadn't already.

As for needing to go missing nin to be a jashinist... I don't think we necessarily would? Being a ninja kinda presents tons of opportunities to do the whole deal already.

>>3207617
The Iron Maiden of the Mist

That way Junko will always be able to make fun of us for being a virgin.{/spoiler]

>>3208536
That was for kasumi, not Myon

>>3207668
>we'd have to go missing Nin to do It.
ehh... the village was called bloody mist for a reason.

>>3207668
What part of Jashinism requires us to go missing-nin? The voodo guy did it because his faith elevated killing to a duty, an honourable act while his village went full on pacifist and demilitarized...

I have a hard time imagining Kiri having that particular issue.

>>3208536
>Virgin for life
Not when Kasumi violently takes us to the bone zone

>>3207617
What about the Reaper of the Bloody Mist?

Zabs is Demon of the Bloody Mist.

Kisumu can be the White Rabbit of the Bloody Mist (or Iron Maiden I guess.)

And Junko can be the Slut of the Bloody Mist.

>>3209804
SHE
IS
NOT
A
T H O T

>>3209822
>thot lover detected

>>3209824
I have complete faith the purity under her rough exterior. Big Sis would never set such a bad example.

>>3209804
I'd argue we should save that for whatever it is she does to earn it. We can probably imagine what it is, Kasumi being Kasumi after all,
but murdering a whole buncha people is different from murdering someone impressive after all.

>>3209804
Kasumi is the Killer Rabbit

Hype for Jashin-sama!!

File: Konpaku Youmu Sword over (...).png (438 KB, 887x805)

438 KB PNG

>>3205543
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQQb1EcjYVo

You awaken the next day close to noon, your body still sore from yesterday’s bloodshed. You slept very soundly for someone who had just killed many scores of men on the battlefield. However, your body wasn’t quite as nostalgic as your mind was, which you promptly learned upon crawling off of your bedroll.

“Good morning Myon-San.” Kasumi chirps, bowing to you from a kneeling position she took beside your bed.

“Kasumi? Agh, how long have you been there?” you croak.

“Not long! I just figured I’d guard you while you sleep.” she replies.

“Guard me while I sleep?” you ask.

Kasumi taps her fingers together and giggles.

“w-Well, we are behind enemy lines after all.” she murmurs.

You stare at her for a moment before breaking out into laughter yourself.

“I get it, thanks Kasumi.”

“Don’t mention it!”

Your body groans while you rise to your feet. Kasumi looks to be having a little trouble getting up as well, which you attribute to her own fatigue from yesterday’s battle. You never saw her take a hit in that fight, but you know now how much pressure opening the gates puts on her body.

“Ah good, you’re both awake.” Ao mutters, marching into the room.

“Ao-Sensei, good morning to you as well!” Kasumi greets.

Kasumi slowly bends her knees, flinching in pain as she motions to take another bow. Rolling your eyes, you suppose you should do the same.

“Stop, stop.” Ao sighs. “None of that, at least not today.”

Ao leans against the door frame to this humble little house you and Kasumi had commandeered.

“How are things outside going?” you ask Ao. “How are the villagers?

“Everything’s going smoothly.” Ao replies. "The villagers seem too afraid to resist, apparently they heard what Sho’nuff did to their neighbors. As a matter of fact, Sho’nuff decided to send half of his men back to that ruined village earlier this morning.”

“Shouldn’t they be here with us Sensei?” Kasumi asks. “In case the Hot Water Nin try to retake the town?”

“That’s why we’re still here.” Ao mutters. "Ashigaru are better suited for holding the land ninja take in battle. Garrison forces that can… agh, I’ll explain more in-depth later. I just wanted to come by to tell you both to take it easy today.”

“Take it easy?” you grunt. “Aren’t we on a mission?”

“Our only mission now is to hold onto this town until Kumogakure can reinforce it.” Ao explains. “If Yugakure does try to retake this place, I want you both to be ready. I can tell just by looking at you that you’re both still tired from yesterday. I need you two in fighting condition, so try to relax a little. Just for today."

Kasumi smiles and forces herself to drop to a knee and bow

“Thank you for your generosity Sensei!”

“Yeah, thanks captain.” you add.

(1/2)

>>3218767
Ao nods, turns away and disappears in a flash to assumably patrol the area for any enemies lurking about. Soon after, you and Kasumi exit the house and step out onto the streets. The town is nowhere near the size of Kirigakure, instead boasting only a few hundred people at most. Thus when you look around you aren’t surprised to see that many of those walking the streets are Water and Lightning Ashigaru. What few townsfolk that are out and about appear to be trying hard not to get too close to you and Kasumi, going so far as to walk to the other end of the street to avoid you.

Off in the distance, you can see what appears to be a funeral being held in a graveyard. There’s quite a few villagers there, dressed in black and playing music. More than likely they are laying to rest some of the soldiers you fought and killed yesterday.

“Well I suppose we can do whatever we want now.” Kasumi yawns. “To the victor goes the spoils. What would you like to do until Ao-Sensei comes back?”

As Kasumi stretches and yawns, you notice the strange necklace from yesterday hanging off of her neck. Reaching into your pocket, you can can feel that same odd necklace with the inverted triangle in your pocket. It filled you with pride to receive such a gift, made you feel that perhaps there was some honor in the world after all and that the mercy you showed yesterday wasn’t wasted. Still, you had no idea what the symbol of this necklace represented. Perhaps one of the villagers might be able to explain the significance if it?

What will Myon do now?

>Walk the streets and explore the town a bit?
>Seek out Sho’nuff?
>Go pay your respects to the dead?
>Investigate what this necklace you and Kasumi got is supposed to mean?
>Write-in?

Also
>Wear the Necklace?
>Yes/No?

(2/2)

>>3218770
>Investigate what this necklace you and Kasumi got is supposed to mean?
>Yes

>>3218770
>>Investigate what this necklace you and Kasumi got is supposed to mean?
>>No

>>3218770
>>Investigate what this necklace you and Kasumi got is supposed to mean?
>Yes

>>3218770
>Seek out Sho'nuff
>Yes

>>3218825
>>3218864
>>3218882
>Invetigate what this necklace you and Kasumi got is supposed to mean?

>>3218901
>Seek out Sho'nuff

>>3218825
>>3218882
>>3218901
>Yes

>>3218864
>No

That looks like Myon and Kasumi are going to ask around about their "Friendship Necklaces", and Myon apparently likes it enough to start wearing it herself.

>Writing

File: Squidward plays Sudoku.png (366 KB, 606x390)

366 KB PNG

>>3218927
>forgot my name again

>>3218927
Aww yeah baby, we learning about Jashinism now

File: Misty Village street.jpg (429 KB, 1280x996)

429 KB JPG

>>3218927
Furrowing your brow, you brandish the necklace in your pocket and stare as it dangles in your grasp.

“Want to see if anyone around here recognizes our necklaces?” you ask.

“Sure.” Kasumi nods.

You wrap the charm around your neck and leave it on display atop your white sarashi bandage wrapping. Strolling away from your lodging, the two of you attempt to flag down the nearest villagers you can see. You aren’t surprised when villagers attempt to scurry away in fear, but their reaction when you show them your necklace does catch you off guard.

“By the Gods.” the villager gasps. “t-That symbol!"

“Ohhhh?” Kasumi smiles. “You sound like you recognize it.”

“n-No!” he snaps. “I know nothing! Please, leave me alone!”

“Hmph.” Kasumi huffs. “Its impolite to lie, and rather foolish to lie to us of all people.”

Kasumi scowls up at the man, a gesture you honestly find rather cute. The villager however, perhaps a little more aware of how dangerous that headband on her forehead makes her, blanches almost as white as your friend.

“Please, I—“ the villager gulps. “there’s a house, a fortune teller’s house. On the other side of the village. It—he knows…”

“A fortune teller? That sounds fun.” Kasumi says while turning to you. “Maybe we can get our fortunes read while we’re at it?”

“Heh.” you chuckle. “I’m not sure I believe in that stuff, but I guess it sounds fun. Let’s check it out.”

Kasumi gives the villager a slight bow before he flees, leaving the two of you to go and search for this fortune teller. Given the small size of the town, it does not take long to find the house of this fortune teller. Walking down a narrow alleyway, you and Kasumi are drawn down the shady street by the sound of a flue whistling a pleasant tune. About halfway through, you discover a small home sandwiched in-between two larger buildings with a verdant lawn.

Leaning against a rock on the lawn is a dark skinned man with a shaved head, dressed in raggedy clothes and playing the flute. Upon seeing the two of you, he stands up and ceases his song.

“Good Morning Kunoichi.” he greets.

“Good morning sir.” Kasumi chirps.

“It sure is going to be a beautiful day, HA HA. A beautiful day…”

The man returns to his flute-playing, as he turns away.

“Uh,” you mutter. “excuse me. Are you the village fortune teller?”

The stranger turns around, his large brown eyes staring into yours before lowering down to your neck.

“Oh, what a beautiful necklace.” he says, ceasing his tune. “Not something I’d expect to see on a foreigner. And you as well little one. Where did you two find such charms?”

“A man we fought gave it to us.” Kasumi answers. “It was the last thing he did before he died."

The fortune teller smiles at Kasumi for several quiet seconds before turning his head back and bellowing a deep laughter at the sky.

(1/2)

File: Hot Water Flute.png (843 KB, 865x462)

843 KB PNG

>>3219120
“I see, I see!” he chuckles. “You two made a friend that day. I’m sure he left you with a few questions as well. Here, step inside. Make yourselves at home!”

Following the fortune teller over the threshold and through a veil of hanging beads, you quickly become aware of the smell of burning incense and the eerie glow of a crystal ball sitting on the man’s table. Taking a seat with him at his table, the fortune teller brandishes a dusty scroll from a nearby shelf and unfurls it to reveal the same symbol as your necklaces painted black against a red background.

“What you wear is a reversed pentagram, a symbol that can only belong to a god of Death. Jashin.”

“Jashin?” you mutter.

“A God of Death?” Kasumi asks.

“Yes. He is also thought of as a God of Life at times, but much more famous as a God of Death.” the fortune teller muses. “Some also respected him as a God of War, and a patron of warriors… such as yourselves.”

Kasumi’s eyes sparkle as she reaches over to the scroll on the table, trailing a finger across the symbol.

“A god of war?” you whisper. “That sounds pretty neat. I wonder why I’ve never heard of him before?”

“The religion of Jashin has never been very popular.” the fortune teller chuckles. "Jashin is a demanding god. One does not simply worship Jashin by visiting a temple or donating to the weak. Jashin’s temple is the battlefield, and the only donation is that of blood."

You mumble the fortune teller’s words under your breathe while reading the symbols on his scroll.

“Heh, I guess Jashin must really like ninja.” you mutter.

“Would you girls like to learn more?” the fortune teller asks. “Or perhaps, would you like to meet Jashin?”

Kasumi gasps, raising a hand over her mouth.

“Meet a God of Death?” Kasumi exclaims. “You don’t mean…"

“HAHAHA!” the man’s laughter booms. “No no, not quite like that my child. There are ways of invoking Jashin’s attention, much less fatal means. I happen to be something of a medium after all. I could assist, but be warned. Jashin is, like I said, a demanding god..."

What does Myon say?

>Tell the Fortune Teller you would like to meet Jashin?
>Decline the Fortune Teller’s offer?
>Let Kasumi decide?
>Write-in?

(2/2)

>>3219188
>Decline the Fortune Teller’s offer?
Sounds like jashin merits respect, but to actually participate in this sort of faith would be a form of split loyalties. Loyal to water country but also loyal to jashin.
Better not to get into a situation where such things might... clash.

>Decline the Fortune Teller’s offer?

File: daa4554d9e71c8b553e278878(...).png (291 KB, 865x1024)

291 KB PNG

>>3218932
>>3219188
>Tell the Fortune Teller you would like to meet Jashin?

>>3219188
>Decline the Fortune Teller’s offer?

>>3219188
>Tell the Fortune Teller you would like to meet Jashin?

>>3219188
>Tell the Fortune Teller you would like to meet Jashin?

>>3219200
>>3219216
>>3219239
>Decline the Fortune Teller's offer?

>>3219220
>>3219240
>>3219255
>Tell the Fortune Teller you would like to meet Jashin?


Hmmm, looks like a tie. I'll leave the vote going for a bit longer and see if we can't get a tiebreaker.

>>3219274
>Decline the fortune tellers offer.

>>3219289
Close vote! But it looks like Myon is rejecting the Fortune Teller's offer...

>Writing

I fail to see how BLOODY MIST VILLAGE and murder God conlict.

>>3219325
Because Jashinism is a dumb gimmick and Myon kills for the village, not some bitch ass god.

She's a patriot, not a zealot.

File: 32e94b42128c0af9233001846(...).jpg (853 KB, 1912x3508)

853 KB JPG

>>3219325
It's fine. I mean, there's nothing preventing us from dabbling in it later is there?

File: 5a0ce0e49def2b9621f3b2c7e(...).png (1.59 MB, 990x868)

1.59 MB PNG

>>3219337
>kills for the village
Soon it'll be for pleasure too.

>>3219274
>Tell the Fortune Teller you would like to meet Jashin?

File: jashin_by_b133d4u_d6ojwki(...).jpg (90 KB, 1024x768)

90 KB JPG

>>3219368
You stare at the Fortune Teller while mulling over his offer. This Jashin sounds like a figure that merits respect in your eyes. You’ve never been a particularly religious person, but the worship of Jashin is unlike any faith you have ever heard of. You wonder if, by meeting this Jashin, you might somehow begin walking down the path to becoming a follower of him and his ways…

However, for all its allure you feel conflicted. Ultimately, you decide its better NOT to attract this God of Death’s attention.

“I’m sorry, but no thanks.” you mutter.

“Oh really?” he asks, apparently surprised by your rejection.

“Jashin… heh, well he sounds awesome just from what you’ve told me.” You chuckle. “But, I don’t think its right that I get too involved in stuff like this. At the end of the day, we’re Ninja of the Mist. I won’t ever turn my back on Kirigakure, and if this Jashin is as demanding as you say…”

The Fortune Teller’s surprise fades away, replaced by a knowing smile.

“Ahhh, I see.” he hums. “A very mature response, not one I was expecting. A wise man, or woman, must know in their heart that they can only truly serve one master."

The man clicks his tongue, and turns his knowing smile to Kasumi.

“And what of you, young one?” he asks. “I imagine your loyalty to your village must be just as strong.”

Kasumi frowns and begins to lightly scratch at her neck.

“y-Yes, that is true. I am loyal…” she mutters. “… to my clan. And Clan Kaguya will always serve the Mist.”

You blink at your friend, somewhat surprised by the determined tone she just took.

“Well then, I suppose that’s that.” the Fortune Teller sighs. “I noticed you seemed fond of that scroll Miss Kaguya. If you ever wish to study on your own, then by all means take it. I can spare a scroll here and there.”

Kasumi gives a blank stare at the scroll before slowly grabbing it.

“Oh, there was one other matter. Another secret of my homeland.” the Fortune Teller whispers. “I noticed that you were recently injured. Here in the Land of Hot Water, there are many hot springs blessed with powerful healing abilities. One of them happens to be in this very village by the inn. You two might wish to enjoy the spring yourselves before retuning to war.”

With that, the Fortune Teller leans back in his seat and pulls out his flute. He proceeds to play the same merry tune as earlier before the two of you bid him farewell and leave his abode.

(1/2)

File: Kaguya Female.png (498 KB, 808x588)

498 KB PNG

>>3219391
Walking down the alley, you steal a glance at Kasumi who sullenly looks to the ground while following close by your side. Sighing, you feel as if you could slice through the tension in the air with your sword. A part of you was curious, perhaps even concerned, by the manner in which she responded to the Fortune Teller’s question. You wondered if there was a way of tactfully asking your friend for clarification on how she felt, or if not then at least some means of reassuring her you were not upset.

At least, you don’t think you’re upset.

What does Myon do?

>Ask Kasumi for clarification of what she meant by her loyalty to Kirigakure?
>Assure Kasumi that you are not upset by her answer to the Fortune Teller?
>Disregard Kasumi’s conduct, ask Kasumi if she’d like to visit that Hot Spring together?
>Disregard Kasumi’s conduct, suggest they pay Sho’nuff a visit to idle away some time?
>Write-in?

(2/2)

>>3219400
>Disregard Kasumi’s conduct, ask Kasumi if she’d like to visit that Hot Spring together?

File: 3eb5a9fec0c2ef0604ab9d98d(...).jpg (238 KB, 1400x994)

238 KB JPG

>>3219400
>Disregard Kasumi’s conduct, ask Kasumi if she’d like to visit that Hot Spring together?

>>3219400
I'm sorry to cut things early today, but I actually have to get up early for once this morning so I'll need to head to bed now.

I'll try to count up the votes and continue this thread later today. Apologies again for a shorter run than usual!

>>3219432
thanks for running

File: 0cd0db68065aed78c9947fa07(...).jpg (515 KB, 800x1280)

515 KB JPG

>>3219432
It's cool, thanks for running

>>3219400

>Disregard Kasumi’s conduct, ask Kasumi if she’d like to visit that Hot Spring together?

>>3219400
>Disregard Kasumi’s conduct, ask Kasumi if she’d like to visit that Hot Spring together?

>>3219325
Indeed, anyone would have a very hard time arguing that killing isn't a moral good since, well, they make their kids butcher one another for one.

>>3219400
>>Disregard Kasumi’s conduct, ask Kasumi if she’d like to visit that Hot Spring together?

>Cucked by the pussy anons who rejected Jashin because I had to go work

>>3219720
And I was asleep, but I do agree with the "no" vote, if only because the dude went all out right away. Telling about Jashin, some tenants or something that's cool. That's something I could definetly see Myon and Kasumi be interested in...

But a personal meet & greet with a god of death and skullfucking. Who is "incredibly demanding" as a followup to the question of "Hey, what's this necklace mean?" is just way, way, to much to quick.

I mean good gods man, fucking hell.

>>3219745
I just thought it'd be a fun and interesting plot hook

File: 58f6f1eacb6edf4a40331898c(...).jpg (1.78 MB, 1352x2224)

1.78 MB JPG

>>3219745
I'm sure he's a swell guy. At least Kasumi would think so.

>>3219720

Dude, we are in enemy land, we just murdered a bunch of local, then we must be able to trust everything people say in a recently captured village?

>>3219400
>>Ask Kasumi for clarification of what she meant by her loyalty to Kirigakure?

File: Hot Spring.jpg (110 KB, 968x681)

110 KB JPG

>>3219400
You put on a smile and place your hand on Kasumi’s shoulder.

“Hey Kasumi?” you ask while lightly shaking her. “You still sore from yesterday?”

“Wah?” she replies, snapping out of her daze. “Uh, yes. Just a little bit.”

“Why don’t we try out that hot spring?” you suggest. “See if that fortune teller was telling the truth?”

Kasumi’s frown disappears and she gives you a nod. You smirk back while leading the way out of that dim alley way. Whatever it was concerning her exchange with the Fortune Teller is something you easily push away from your thoughts. Right now, all that matters is Kasumi and you are friends.

Entering out into the street, you are caught off guard by the orange glow of the afternoon sun. More time has passed than you initially recognized. Even so, you and Kasumi are able to find your way to the inn near the edge of town without issue. The place is clean and rather spacious, but it appears empty.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2qVMJrMiV4U

“Huh,” you mutter. “Kind of weird. Hey, is anyone home!?”

“Hang on.” Kasumi replies. “I think I hear something around the corner."

You follow Kasumi around the inn to find a tall wall of bamboo that’s nearly ten feet tall. Now that you’re close, you can indeed hear what sounds like several men laughing.

“Is that the inn staff?” Kasumi asks.

Before you have a chance to answer her, Kasumi is already scurrying up the bamboo.

“Hey, hold on a second. That might be—“

“EEK!”

You gawk at Kasumi as she falls off the top of the bamboo wall. Rushing underneath, you catch your little friend in your arms as several men shout expletives back. Once more, you find Kasumi’s cheeks blushing red.

“I uh,” she whispers. “I found the men’s side of the pool…"

Rolling your eyes, you watch as a muscular man emerges around the corner wearing nothing but a white towel. You recognize him from the boat journey as one of the Ashigaru under your command.

“m-My lord, forgive—“

“Forget about it.” you sigh.

Rolling your eyes, you carry Kasumi around to the women’s side of the hot spring. Setting her back down on her feet, Kasumi takes a moment to walk over to a bucket of cold water and splash it on her face. You can’t help but chuckle to yourself as you undress and neatly place your equipment to the side. When she’s finally consoled herself, you are pleased to see that Kasumi doesn’t have the same reaction again upon seeing you’ve disrobed.

“Heh, well that’s a start.” you mumble while dipping into the pool. "Compared to last time when we sparred..."

The hot water feels extremely soothing to your sore muscles, and while the recent cuts do sting for a moment that pain quickly passes.

“Damn…”

(1/2)

File: 84457a59e0df131a679af7dad(...).jpg (26 KB, 600x360)

26 KB JPG

>>3221754
The two of you quietly relax in the hot spring for a while. You aren’t quite sure if there’s any magic to this spring or not, but it certainly feels like it. Compared to taking a cold dip in the sea, this feels like heaven.

“Myon-san?” Kasumi whispers.

“Eh?” you say, opening a single eye.

“Heh heh.” she giggles. “I thought you fell asleep.”

“Ha,” you huff. “If I do just give me a splash.”

Your friend continues to laugh as you smirk at her. Dunking your head underneath the surface, you try to see how long you can hold your breath before emerging and shaking your head like a dog.

“Two minutes!” you sigh. “No wonder Kumogakure wanted to conquer this place.”

“Kind of reminds me of the sauna back on my family’s compound” Kasumi says.

“Your clan has its own sauna?” you ask

“Uh huh.” she replies.

Cocking an eyebrow, you wonder just how well-off Kasumi can be if her family has its own sauna. With a small smile, you imagine Junko’s jaw dropping as she shouts how ‘loaded’ Kasumi’s folks must be.

“Hey, that reminds me.” you mumble. “I never did pay your family for guarding my family. Was I supposed to drop off some money before we left or what?”

“Nope!” Kasumi says. “We talked it over, and you don’t owe any money for the bodyguards.”

“Oh great.” you reply. “Wait, what?”

Before you can get an answer, Kasumi dunks her own head underwater. Apparently, she chose to see how long she could hold her breath as well.

“2 and a half minutes!” Kasumi gasps after emerging from underwater.

“Kasumi?” you grunt.

“Yes Myon-san?” she replies.

“Why don’t I owe your family any money? There’s someone guarding my mom and little bro isn’t there?” you whisper.

“Of course! I talked it over with the Clan Patriarch himself, and he agreed to help.” Kasumi answers matter-of-factly.

Kasumi folds her arms over her chest and coos.

“I convinced him that it’d be, well… a good diplomatic decision if we chose to help. So now your family doesn’t have to worry at all!”

You stare at Kasumi as she proudly smirks to herself. You aren’t quite sure what Kasumi meant by ‘a good diplomatic decision’ but she seems convinced that she’s done well. Regardless, she fulfilled her promise of ensuring that your family is well-protected.

What does Myon do?

>Thank Kasumi for all her help?
>Ask Kasumi what exactly did she tell the Clan Patriarch?
>Write-in?

(2/2)

>>3221777
>Forgot name again

At least I got trips this time

>>3221777
>Thank Kasumi for all her help? Full ham, bow
>Ask Kasumi what exactly did she tell the Clan Patriarch?

>>3221777
>Thank Kasumi for all her help?

>>3221777

>Thank Kasumi for all her help?
>Ask Kasumi what exactly did she tell the Clan Patriarch?

>>3221812
>>3221835
>>3221874
>Thank Kasumi for all her help?

>>3221812
>>3221874
>Ask Kasumi what exactly did she tell the Clan Patriarch?

Seems Myon will be graciously thanking Kasumi and and asking her how exactly her meeting with the Clan Patriarch went.

>Writing

>miss vote because I had to stay late for work
ugh.

File: Konpaku Youmu The Bond Be(...).png (1.27 MB, 1440x900)

1.27 MB PNG

>>3221890
You continue to stare at Kasumi, trying to decipher exactly what she is getting at as she continues to smile at you. That smile of hers proves infectious, as you slowly smile yourself. Slinking down to your shoulders, you exhale

“Thank fuck.”

It was an immeasurable load off of your shoulders to know that your family back home was in good hands. Not only did your mother and your little brother have bodyguards, they had full-blown ninja watching over them. Sitting here in the hot spring secure in that knowledge left you feeling the most relaxed you’ve been in a long time.

“Kasumi, I can’t thank you enough. Here—“

You stand up in the spring and earn a confused look from Kasumi.

“I’ll never forget this, for as long as I live.”

It was a little awkward, but you bowed as low as you could despite being waist-deep in the hot spring. In truth, you felt a little awkward doing this for anyone that wasn’t your parents or your sensei. But you just didn’t know how else to express your gratitude.

“Myon-san.” Kasumi whispers.

“y-Yeah?” you stammer.

When you stand up, you’re shocked to see that Kasumi has tears in her eyes.

“You don’t have to thank me like that.” she sniffs. “You’re my best friend, I’d do anything for you.”

Caught off guard by her heartfelt response, you slink back into the water with a small grin. Glancing up at the night sky, you quietly observe what looks to be a full moon rising over the horizon in the distance. Sitting here with your friend, in the aftermath of a fierce battle you had won on behalf of your homeland, you can’t help but feel content with your lot in life.

“Ah Hell.” you grumble.

“Myon-san? Are you OK?” Kasumi asks.

“Yeah, I uh… I just got something in my eye is all.” you reply.

Desperate to change the subject while you wipe away a stray tear, you take a deep breath and exclaim—

“So you went to speak with your Clan Patriarch huh?”

“Oh yes. I felt I needed to for something like this.” Kasumi nods.

“Right, right.” you grunt. “How exactly did that go anyway? What did you tell him?”

Kasumi regains her sly smile from earlier.

“I told him that you were worried your family might be in danger, on account of people being jealous of our survival in the Final Exam.” Kasumi whispers. “I didn’t need to mention that your family was actually attacked. My Patriarch believed it, said something along the lines of ‘the weak scheming against the strong’.”

“Heh, sounds like him.” you chuckle. “And I guess he still thinks I’m pretty strong huh?”

“Yes, and I told him you would be grateful for the help.” Kasumi adds. “So grateful, that at some point in the far future, your family and mine might form a union.”

“Form a union?” you repeat. “Is that what you meant by helping us being a ‘good diplomatic decision’.”

“Exactly!” Kasumi snaps her fingers.

(1/2)

File: Angry Myon.jpg (123 KB, 759x806)

123 KB JPG

>>3222049
You chuckle at your friend.

“Heh, I’m not really sure what that means. How would two families… ‘form a union’.”

“Oh, typically through intermarriage.”

Your smile slowly fades as the gears in your head slowly turn.

“Did you tell him I would marry into the Kaguya clan?!”

“I told him you might, either you or your brother.”

“LITTLE KEIJI?!”

Kasumi’s eyes widen as you shout.

“k-Kasumi, he’s a baby. You can’t... t-that’s not—“

*snap*

You cease your stammering and turn towards the underbrush a short distance away from the hot spring.

“What was that?” Kasumi mutters.

Narrowing your eyes, you stare over into the greenery. By this point, enough darkness has fallen over the land that you can barely see that far into the darkness. However, it almost looks like the figure of a man is staggering in the bushes.

“A peeping tom?” you hiss.

Kasumi yelps, sinking further below the waters.

What does Myon do?

>Call out to the figure in the bushes?
>Toss a few shuriken at the pervert?
>Grab your sword and subdue the intruder yourself?
>Write-in?

(2/2)

>>3222050
>Call out to the figure in the bushes?
>Grab your sword and subdue the intruder yourself?

File: 4517805f43dfbeb14a031cf96(...).jpg (283 KB, 691x1105)

283 KB JPG

>>3222050
>Grab your sword and subdue the intruder yourself?

>>3222050
>>Grab your sword and subdue the intruder yourself?
I would not be opposed to marrying the rabbit.

>>3222058
>>3222080
>>3222082
>Grab your sword and subdue the intruder?

>>3222058
>Call out to the Figure in the bushes?

Looks like Myon is having none of this. Grabbing her sword and taking down this intruder wins.

>Writing

GOD DAMN IT JIRAYA THEY ARE 10!! TEEEEEEEEEEEN!

>>3222139
I mean it could be Anko about to get some revenge.

File: Spoiler Image (20 KB, 550x294)

20 KB JPG

>>3222108
You’ve had enough surprises for one day, and as a proud Shinobi of the Bloody Mist you are not about to sit here and be ogled at by some freak.

“You’re a dead man.” you sneer.

Rising out of the water, you hop over to your belongings on the side of the pool and grab your katana.

“I’m so embarrassed I could raze the whole village.” Kasumi whines.

Unsheathing your blade, you proceed to race across the hot spring’s surface.

“Hey!” you shout, skidding to a halt just in front of the underbrush. “What the Hell do you think you’re doing here?!”

Leaning forward, you lower your Katana onto the man’s shoulder and let it hover close to the his throat.

“Well, what do you have to say for yourself?!”

The man is silent, and strangely enough, he barely moves an inch in response to your threat. He just stands there completely still.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5oJWKbbXEo

It is now, upon closer inspection, that you see that this man is wearing a suit of armor. It was hard to tell before as he was hidden in the foliage, but now you can also see that this suit of armor is covered in dirt and mud which further obscures him and the symbol on the back of his armor plate.

Three wavy lines, the symbol of the Land of Hot Water.

“An enemy soldier?” you whisper.

Suddenly, the figure turns his body to face you with a thousand yard stare. His cold eyes unblinkingly look down on you without fear. Breaking eye contact with him, you spot a single arrow piercing where his heart should be.

“…”

>Roll 1d100 to defend yourself from this MONSTER!

>>3222139
Hue

File: 79219e1ea5b770e29102ff415(...).jpg (34 KB, 564x463)

34 KB JPG

Rolled 56 (1d100)

>>3222147

Rolled 60 (1d100)

>>3222147
Bakemono!

Rolled 19 (1d100)

>>3222147

File: ee2fcae1dfc07a6950c15347e(...).jpg (543 KB, 713x1200)

543 KB JPG

>>3222169

Rolled 29 (1d100)

>>3222147
booooo not Jiraiya

>>3222155
>>3222165
>>3222169
>60

>Writing

>>3222178
Sorry Anon. As consolation, If Jiraiya ever spies on Myon in a bathhouse she is likely to assume BAKEMONO from the start.

File: Natural_iron_hot_spring.jpg (55 KB, 480x640)

55 KB JPG

>>3222185
You stand before this DEMON in shock. The sheer madness of seeing something you know must be dead has you at a loss for words as the creature continues to stare into you with that unflinching gaze.

>60
>Success!


In spite of the fear you feel, your ears are able to pick up on the all too familiar sound of a sword leaving its scabbard. The enemy before you has drawn his sword.

“No!” you grunt.

His blade comes crashing down, but you’re able to get a grip and block the blow with your own sword. A growl exits from your mouth as you glare back into your foe’s eyes and tell him—

“You aren’t the first demon I’ve faced.”

The warrior steps back and raises his sword again. You easily predict where it will fall, stepping aside and dodging the cut. Left wide open, you twirl your blade through the air and slash open his midsection!

“Ha!” you cry.

Your supposed victory is cut short, for even though your blade sunk through his flesh and drew much of his blood, the demon does not fall. Far from it, he falls back into a battle ready stance.

“What the Hell are you?” you whisper.

As the monster stomps forward to try another attack, you spot a white blur in the corner of your eye.

“HiYAAA!”

Kasumi shouts as her foot crashes into your foe’s sternum, striking him with enough force to send him crashing through the bamboo fence!

“Nice one.” you exhale.

“Thanks! But, who was that Myon-san?” she asks.

Staring through the hole in the bamboo, you see a collection of visibly confused and mostly naked Ashigaru staring at the center of their pool.

“Oy!” an Ashigaru with a sake bowl cries. “Who the Hellsh’ crashin’ our party?”

To your horror, that same Ashigaru swaggers over to the center of the hot spring.

“Wait!” you shout. “Get away from there!“

The undead warrior emerges from underwater and stands tall over the drunken soldier. Screaming obscenities, the poor man is immediately cut down by the demon's blade, spilling his blood into the hot spring. The rest of the pool descends into chaos, as several of your men shout in terror while others run off to grab their arms and armor.

You’re about to immediately step in to try and finish this monster off somehow, when you hear similar cries of fear echoing over from elsewhere in the village.

What does Myon do now?

>Step in beside your men, try to finish this thing off for good with your sword!
>Toss an explosive kunai at the monster, blow him to pieces!
>Use Hiding-in-Mist technique to buy everyone a chance to run!
>Let these men take care of the demon while you go investigate those other screams!

And, what of Kasumi?

>Tell her to stay by your side, you’ll need her support!
>Tell her to go search for Captain Ao, you’ll need his leadership!
>Tell her to alert Sho’nuff, he needs to rally his men!

>>3222231
For some reason I forgot to include
>Write-in
with both Myon and Kasumi's turns. You're still capable of suggesting a course of action like usual!

>>3222231
>Stay in beside your men, try to finish this thing off for good with your sword!
>Use Hiding-in-Mist technique to buy everyone a chance to run!

>Tell her to go search for Captain Ao, you’ll need his leadership!