[attr="class","zacwords"]While Oto’s dense forestry clashed greatly with the ‘home in the sky’ he was long used to in Kumogakure, Chinetsu supposed it would lend itself for much more basic exchanges, should conflict arise, that is. After all, it had been a little over a week since he had been reluctantly plucked away from his sedentary, inebriated lifestyle by his village’s leadership, and forced back into the mighty military fold of Kumogakure. And while he had only allowed his conscription to occur in order to avoid the consequences of his drunk lifestyle back at home, it did not go without saying he considered complete desertion with every step he took outside his homelands.[break][break]
But that would only make things worse for Chinetsu. He was barely in any condition to fend of barkeeps, bill collectors, and their security, which placed him unwillingly back into service; what made him think he could outrun an actual organized, extremely sober and well-trained force such as Kumogakure? And while his alcoholic bouts often made him foolish in thought, he had yet to go so astray as to think such a plan possible, yet alone, plausible. Ugh. And so here he was, restored to his shiny white attire, showered, clean, and ready to serve his country. I feel so... A sour look soon adorned his worn, aged façade.[break][break]
...pathetic.[break][break]
Though the Land of Fire was possessing a plethora of mountain ranges, their might was dwarfed by that of the great sky towers that naturally comprised the Hidden Cloud. As such, he found transgressing through it a rather easy endeavor, even when rushing rivers would often force him on diverting paths. Still, he was well within his mission timeline, and had not yet been aware of any conflict that had been sparked, which would necessitate his medical skills being employed prematurely, sans the arrival of his back-up.[break][break]
He arrived in Sound boasting with full medical capacities, though his armaments would also allow him lofty defense should battle visit his doorstep. He was instructed there would be others of his same ilk to join him. Their mission? To provide support for Otogakure as they fended off intruders known to him as ‘Taiyou’, invaders of the Sound’s sovereign borders, with nothing but extermination and bloodshed in mind. At least, that’s what he had gathered during his briefing.[break][break]
He had chosen a plain, open field as a stopping point, passing a series of raging rivers just before in order to reach a small patch of high ground, which allowed him equal sight to the village, as well as the road to their intended defensive position, the city of Onomichi. Dossier in one hand, map on the other, wish a lazy left and right gaze across the fields occasionally interrupting his analyses, Chinetsu would wait patiently for the arrival of his comrade in arms…[break][break]
…if they would even refer to him as that.[break][break]
It was a curious thing, to say the least. They had dispatched the Uchiha to this portion of the land, and yet he had heard not even a whisper of interference as he trekked edifice and plain. Uchiha Anotsu carried the gait of a pensive shade, a long scarf swaying gently as he traversed the field of rock and emerald blade before him. Piercing eyes, attentive and kept upon an occasional swivel, observed his surroundings with focused curiosity. This land was a creature of enigmatic proportion to him, its hideouts and beautiful ranges a stark contrast to what one might have originally surmised. The evidence of battle was strewn here and there, the struggle betwixt empire and shinobi jutting forth in abandoned weapons and dilapidated encampments. Amegakure was host to the most technological advances. As such, this was but a vacation spot in the Jounin's eyes. Still, he remained alert. There was a certain electricity in the air - tension, no doubt. [break][break] The sound of rushing river in the distance somewhat veiled his approach, the Uchiha spotting an unfamiliar form that stood out in the open. The pristine white of his garb was impressive, offering a first impression that spoke of position, of importance. Anotsu's own attire may have spoken the same, but there was comfort - full range of motion - that he prioritized about all else. Upon his person were twin pouches, hosting a series of weapons and quality of life trinkets and apparatus. To avoid an illusion of imposing stature, they would remain undisturbed as the Jounin approached. [break][break] "Think they'll let us skip the pleasantries to cut down on how long we're bound to Oto's summons?" Anotsu joked. The softest chuckle, more akin to a couple of breaths that rushed out from parted lips. The luminescent purple of his eyes, an oddity for some, peered out and into the same picture that the stranger meters off was familiarizing himself with. A glance of acknowledgement. A dip of his chin in proper respect for another who sought the mission's completion. [break][break] "Anotsu of Amegakure," the Jounin stated. The hitai ate attached to his scarf dangled just slightly at his neck, offering some identity to his newfound acquaintance. Not one to be stuck on tradition, Anotsu would say nothing more and resolve to leave him undisturbed if he so desired. [break][break] [5:22 PM]
[attr="class","zacwords"]Chinetsu’s main concern was to make sure he understood his various rally points, as well as who the fellow shinobi from Kumo he’d most likely provide back-up for were. As a battle medic, he was certainly capable of offense, but the main objective of his presence was for the sake of healing, as well as to abate any potential ruinous medical situation that could otherwise easily wipe out a squad. So why can’t I find them…? After a brief bout of frustration, he stopped and began to put everything away. He was done reexamining his methods and questioning himself, and instead, would soon resort to making random contact to potential nearby allies for help with directions. [break] [break]
Despite the mostly nature-filled canvas he had just walked through, there were spots containing small crews of friendly militia scattered all about, groups Chinetsu suspected were part of Oto’s forces and had set up temporary camp. These groups were the very same leading the defense efforts against the Taiyou. But hey look like farmers… Though he was in no place to judge, any previous lamentations regarding approaching them for information came from obvious reasons. However, with so much time already wasted spent scurrying across the Land of Fire, it was time to swallow his pride and do his best to get back on track. [break] [break]
It was at that moment that he was approached, quite stealthily he might add. The man carried a much younger but nonetheless imposing stature, and so, mutual respect was easy enough a fit, at least for the moment. Thus, Chinetsu’s plans to have to endure a predictably confusing conversation with the nearby militia had been delayed. And while there wasn’t much an annoyance felt as a result of that, the Chuunin would nonetheless remain vigilant. He seems…different… His approach, for the most part, had remained neutral, and thus peaceful. Chinetsu, now standing, did not move from his spot.[break] [break]
“Chinetsu. Kumogakure.”
[break]
His voice rang low but crisp, a quick certainty about its nature awarding his newfound guest both a twinge of commemoration for his appearance skill in stealth, but also the fact he was ready for a retort, should he need one. Still, these were friendly times, and Amegakure certainly was to be considered an ally. After all, the Raikage was very explicit in his orders of peace and support. Considering he was indebted to the man, or rather, his forgiveness, this was no time to go against the grain. As his introduction neared its end, Chinetsu would point to the Kumo headband, which had been inscribed near his hip and its various activities. [break] [break]
“And to answer your question, I am not sure what to think yet, Anotsu-san...”
[break]
“...On one hand, as a Medic, I am glad to not have witnessed first hand, so far, the need for my healing skills across bloodied fields...”
[break]
A heavy sigh soon followed as he took a break from his response, his once relaxed arms joining his shoulder in a relaxed shrug meant to accentuate his last statement. As he continued to observe the newcomer’s general presence, he broke out a genuine smile, his aged old façade cracking briefly to reinforce the notion of peace. It wouldn’t be long before he returned to his stoic, neutral state, however. That is, unless Anotsu had a good joke up his sleeve. [break] [break]
“...But on the other, I can’t help but wonder where else I could probably be that would beat this...”
[break]
“...and I have a strange feeling there are more than a few...”
It had become clear to Anotsu that Chinetsu had seen far more in his lifetime than the younger Uchiha. He listened intently to Chinetsu's words, easily discerning that the Medic was an important asset to Otogakure's efforts. This was war. Blood was spilled and bodies were broken in the name of purpose. Regardless of what transpired in that moment, the older gentleman held a candle that burned far brighter than his own. [break][break] He was a sentry. Chinetsu was a pillar. [break][break] "You know what they say," Anotsu began. The Jounin glanced about for moments before crouching down, nimble digits plucking a rather large rock from the blanket of grass he stood upon. "Modern problems require modern solutions." With that, the Uchiha employed his shurikenjutsu's prowess and thrust the makeshift projectile forward and into the distance. "Wait for it.." he muttered. Seconds passed before a distant clang filtered through with a whisper's volume from meters away. He had struck one of Otogakure's patrons on the side, though the sizeable formation had bounced hard off a kunai fashioned into its pouch. "You could always -make- reasons to heal." Anotsu chuckled softly, that childlike antic one that was rare for the Jounin. But beyond the surface of his ministrations, it was all he could do to maintain the constant reminder that life was short and that this war was not. [break][break] "Kumogakure.." Anotsu trailed off. "I've heard stories of your village's prowess, overcoming and holding fast the push from Kirigakure's forces. Amegakure has seen rain for much of its lifecycle. But it's clear that your kin have dominion over waters of their own." The Jounin nodded in subconscious admiration. He was in no position to speak on matters beyond what he knew, and thus the topic would perish there unless Chinetsu had a reply. [break][break] "You're probably right, though, all things considered." Anotsu's arms lifted to fold one over the other, though it was more relaxation than what one might have thought was withdrawal. "I've not encountered enemy forces anywhere along the perimeter. But if we're to do what we came here to do, we should canvas other areas and at least ensure that we've done our due diligence." The mischief had suddenly been replaced by a visage of seriousness, the Uchiha's eyes rising until he could take in the skyline in its entirety from their perch. "Your presence here suggests that you've not found any Platoons that require aid yet. But Otogakure is filled with traps and underground passageways. We're bound to stumble upon our quarry ere long. What do you think?" the Jounin asked the Medic. [break][break] [6:37 PM]
[attr="class","zacwords"]Anotsu’s response, although cheeky and unexpected after such a serious air had suddenly been introduced into the area with his arrival, was quickly appreciated by Chinetsu, whose senescent veneer was almost always fixated on maintaining a stoic expression for the most part devoid of emotion. Not this time, however, and a minor smile suddenly grew wide and spanned from cheek to cheek into a full on devious grin, a deep cackle also escaping his lips before they returned to a smirk. That they do... For some reason, he found himself slowly nodding as well, as if he was hearing some faint musical tune with a steady, agreeable beat. [break][break]
“Whirpool stood no chance. But the Rain is no stranger to victory either...” [break][break]
“...a tale, figuratively, and literally, told by the sands of time.”
[break]
It was a cheeky reference to his village’s bloodied war of attrition held against what once was Sunagakure. And while sweet victory was not instant, Ame’s resilience over time – as well as its ruthlessness – would present a final solution that would end the war, permanently, in their favor. It was the true gift of patience and a strong will; of playing the long game. That last trick with the beast was neat, too... Despite his most recent bout of permanent inebriation, the medic had been well studied, and knew not only his own history, but that which was recorded and attributed to those around Kumo. [break][break]
After all, keep your friends close, right....? As Anotsu agreed with the Chuunin’s observation, he also began to explore the potential ideas he was bringing to the table. Due diligence would certainly include some form of confirmable patrolling, which could potentially morph in the form of shared intel should he run into others of his team any time soon. As observed by both shinobi, the Taiyou Empire had not yet made its presence widely known. This was both good and bad; as it gave them time to prepare, but it was also a foreboding predicament, similar to that of saying – the calm before the storm... It was inevitable, then, to assume something was coming. And soon. [break][break]
“Are you also waiting for your squad...?”
[break]
Perhaps there was a chance this down time could be used productively, especially with an ally near.
There were few who had an appreciation for the annals of history. Little surprised Uchiha Anotsu, and yet his words were a welcome delight to he who had heard and been taught the history of Amegakure. The blood, sweat, and tears of those who had come before were firmly planted in his knowledge, and the Jounin's countenance shifted into one of pensive nature in response. Intrigue burned within the Uchiha's iris. His next set of words were split between those of admiration and the curiosity to pick further at the treasure trove of Chinetsu's wisdom. He opted, instead, to remain focused on the objective at hand. He silently bookmarked the notion, tucking it away for a later interval. [break][break] "Amegakure has faced impossible odds and stepped triumphantly over the hurdle of its adversities," Anotsu nodded. "I'm sure that we both hold our respective villages close to the cardiac. My thanks for your words." Not one to linger on moments, Chinetsu's question was answered as Anotsu shifted his weight to his left leg. "My Platoon consists of young Genin and a couple of Chuunin. I, myself, am a Jounin." Anotsu remembered his initial greeting, not mentioning his position for no particular reason. He nodded to the distance. [break][break] "If you're not waiting for a squad of your own, I think it our best move to cover more ground and ensure that none are somewhere dying alone and without a means to call for aid. To that end, I'll follow your lead and let you take point. I've no Medical Ninjutsu or knowhow to speak of. I can, however, assist in facilitating your protection." Violet eyes matched Chinetsu's gaze as he spoke. [break][break] "The Empire's silence is a greater threat than its roar," the Uchiha began. "Initiative is sure to pull back the veil of their machinations." [break][break] [8:25PM]
[attr="class","zacwords"]Although not much more was spoken on regarding their respective histories, an air of intrigue and curious observation by the agent of Rain led Chinetsu to believe he was indeed enthralled and rapt with the topic; perhaps they could continue to discuss war stories at a further time? For now, the conversation shift would head back in the direction it initially was headed for. Without the rest of his fellow Cloud-nin to be found at the respective rendezvous points, moving alone would not be the best of ideas. A little backup never hurts… He was a medic, after all; if he were to proceed alone, who exactly would he be able to back up? [break][break]
“A Jounin, eh...?” [break][break]
“Well, consider me a Chuunin. Medic. At your service...” [break][break]
His intrigue in his higher rank was not rooted in disbelief or even jealousy, but rather in the notion he was relieved to be dealing with someone of high rank, rather than the youths he had been forced to train prior to leaving the village on this mission. And while it was part of the terms of his conscriptions, he hated every minute of it. I’m too old for this shit… So now, in the presence of someone more skilled, Chinetsu would be allowed to flourish, and if anything, go all out, knowing experience paired him. His tone, warmhearted and ardent, would hopefully accent his impressed nature. Needless to say, he was in agreement to the concept of a team-up.
“I agree...” [break][break]
“...and well said. It feels like we are in the eye of the storm…” [break][break]
While there was no conflict, and Chinetsu found himself lamenting in the lack of use for his position, his experienced side knew all too well hell was but around a nearby, river-lead, foliage covered corner. Being brash and overtly offensive was not always the best strategy for victory. It was the quiet ones that did the most damage, and when referring to the Taiyou, they are as ruthless as it gets – they would employ virtually any tactic in order to achieve victory. Having targeted the innocents before, it would be quite possible they were creeping through the shadows this very moment, careful eyes scanning the horizon so that they could size up their potential victims by threat level, and then attack accordingly. [break][break]
“...perhaps moving on together would be best...” [break][break]
[attr="class","exhausted"]A lion concerns itself not with the opinions of sheep..
[attr="class","rhythm"]
❝
So often, we run from consequences. Do as you please but do it without regret.
A simple nod would suffice.
Suddenly, I was no longer a stationary target. With power directed toward my lower extremities, I jettisoned down and off of the elevated plain that we stood upon. Toward the safety of a gathering of Otogakure's structures I moved, every footstep delicate, graceful in execution. Necessity was the mother of invention. In a similar vein, this newly forged alliance would serve to aid the weary or downtrodden once we had located them. With eyes forward, I increased my speed to its greatest limit and scanned the perimeter as best I could through the twists and turns of the countryside. "We should keep our heads on a swivel 'lest we lose them to negligence," I said aloud, my head slightly turned so that Chinetsu alone could hear my words. "It may be harsh to say this, but we should also take recon before engaging if we run into a Platoon in need of assistance. The more intel we can gather for our Superiors, the better." Though time was of the essence, I had never been one to attempt to seize opportunity without certainty. No, I was a man of great patience. For better or for worse, every choice was one empty of regret.
Along hilltops and valleys I traveled, occasionally halting my advance upon a perch that overlooked the territories of the outskirts within Otogakure's expanse. Before long, however, the fruits of our labor had come into our field of vision. Pillars of smoke billowed like gaseous titans into the heavens. The smell of sulfur wafted strongly through the air, its potency fresh upon the winds as I slowed from a run into a gait. The aftermath of battle, the stench of blood and death, coalesced into a confirmation for the Chuunin Medic and I. "There." An index finger pointed in the direction of sundered earth, bodies both dead and alive strewn along gaia. Finding an elevated precipice that overlooked the scene, I crouched down and rest my forearm atop my knee. "Do you recognize any of them?" I asked, my eyes sliding east to silently gauge Chinetsu's possible facade.
The sounds of pain and desperation were audible as those that yet lived drew ragged breath, groaned in discomfort. But before allowing our presence to be known, I would seek the totality of their circumstance and how it came to be.
[attr="class","zacwords"]All it took was a mere proposal of tactical union for the Jounin to proceed forward with thundering force, a once still, calm yet nonetheless menacing presence now under a berserk spell that propelled him forward at speeds Chinetsu had rarely seen. Fast...!!! While he was unsure whether or not he could keep up, the Chuunin would nonetheless attempt to follow suit, and although his appearance was that of a hardened yet weathered veteran, he felt he could still perform at a competent and comparable level to that of his newfound comrade. And so off he went, eager and determined to prove this notion to be true. Although chakra would power his initial departure, once a steady momentum was achieved, pure physical skill would take over. The day was long; it was wise to conserve as much chakra as possible. [break][break]
The winds, crashing through his sides and forcing his arms to outstretch backwards while fluttering behind him in an effort to maintain maximum aerodynamics, would make understanding Anotsu a bit more difficult, though not impossible. It didn't help he maintained a careful tone. Then again, they were after all in potentially hostile territory. It was imperative they maintain maximum situational awareness, not just for their sake, but also for that of the larger task at hand – to maintain peace and enforce Oto’s allies from an invading force. Regardless of them both hailing from different hidden villages, they would be deemed equal opportunity victims in the hands of their would-be assailants, should they drop their guard enough to allow such a tragedy to occur. To the Taiyou, it mattered not where you hailed from; only what you had that they could take. [break][break]
“Agreed. As talented as we are, we are still but two...” [break][break]
“...in this case, it would seem discretion is indeed the better part of valor...” [break][break]
Choice words spoken midst powerful strides in order to answer the Ame-nin's inquiry. As they progressed through the countryside, a sense of confidence and pride surrounded Chinetsu. He was in good company, that much he knew. Anotsu shared a sound tactical mind, evident by his proposal to selectively intervene in conflict should it be found, among other things, since their presence was mainly for the sake of gathering intelligence until they were officially called into action by Oto. And so, while they contemplated potentially facing an unknown, large-scale enemy, doing so tactically and with shared offensive precision was the surefire answer for whatever riddle they would soon face. Or was it...? They got wiped out...!!! [break][break]
They stopped as quickly as they began their movement once the spent battlegrounds had been spotted, the duo relocating to a higher, hidden perch, one that would allow a discrete but complete view to be cast over the newly found disaster of a battlefield ahead. Dead and alive coexisted across hallowed grounds, the source of a bloody battle discovered in its aftermath stage. Notes of agony, pain and suffering filled the air, substituting the occasional crackle supplied by nature, and the smoldering fires that surrounded. Who could have possibly done this!? In retrospect, Chinetsu should have known the answer should not be too complicated, given the reason they were there. Still, as a member of the medicinal corps, incredulousness in the face of such atrocity was a natural response. [break][break]
“No...I have no idea who they are.”[break][break]
“You are the first ally I’ve made contact with since my arrival here...”[break][break]
“...I have yet to rendezvous with the rest of my team...” [break][break]
His eyes burned holes across the smoldering battlefield as he attempted to seek answers. As he had spoken, he made sure to keep his voice to a minimum, barely audible to Anotsu, who stood right before him. The sheer temperature of the battlefield meant it was relatively fresh, and as such, trouble could still remain. Stealth was the favored approach, and before attempting to get any closer to analyze the scene and provide first aid, it was imperative they removed any notion this could potentially be a trap. Though he assumed Anotsu knew of this, he would once more let loose barely audible words, urging the Jounin to heed the warning and approach this situation with the utmost care. While he had tried to save his chakra during their movement, now, as they prepared a potential approach, Chinetsu began to fire up the energy within. [break][break]
“But nonetheless, I suggest we operate under the notion that whomever did this...” [break][break]
