Her Lucky Bones [Event]

[Okada Kaji]

Even the waves rolled differently in this land. Thick sea foam of brown algae topped fetid green waters off the shores of Shinogi Landing; a coastal town in the Land of Tea. “This certainly ain’t like my Port Cirrus” harumphed the gruff, old, curmudgeonous Wokou; the Sea Captain. How he still had enough strength for the sea in his old age, Kaji Okada would never know, but Wokou was the sole proprietor of his proud little steam guzzling dinghy, Her Lucky Bones, and it seemed as if he would be forever. He tipped the wrinkly captain’s cap on his forehead high and wipe the sweat of Tea’s warm climate, which saturated his brow. Old eyes encased in leathery sockets peered out onto the green-crested horizon and he announced “land ho” so excitedly that it nearly stirred his passengers into expecting trouble.

Then again, last time most of this group boarded Her Lucky Bones trouble was exactly what the squad sailed towards. Kaji awoke from forty-winks with a hand on the hilt of his blade when the old captain hollered, but Kaji calmed as he recognized his comrades still relaxing, unperturbed. Perhaps the only thing wrong was the exhausting heat he was experiencing from wearing his studded leather armor in the tropical climate so far from their home. Finding new attire suddenly became a priority to Kaji; such a welcomed problem compared to the many things on his mind since this trip began.

“Look alive, boys,” said Kaji in an attempt to rally some excitement as a foreign land came into view, though his tone betrayed his intentions. “Time for a bit of recon… first stop is the nearest tavern to have a break from this menacing heat.” As he declared this his face registered his misery, and tugged on his collar to get some airflow into his thick clothing. “We might be coming early to arrange room and board for Lord Raikage’s party, but they’ll expect us to know where the good taverns are— and of course, we won’t disappoint.” It seemed as if the thought of a cold ale and some shade was brightening Kaji’s outlook after all, and his scowl evolved into a toothy grin. “Might as well enjoy ourselves before tangling up with the worst maniacs the world has to offer.” And as they made good-time in their arrival the dingy reached the docks and Shinogi Landing became theirs for the taking.

They were a squad of four shinobi from the Hidden Cloud: participants and one healer responsible for keeping them alive in what was promised to be the most dangerous contest ever seen… This wasn’t your mother’s World Martial Arts Tournament. No. if Kaji’s last encounter with Kaen Shinku proved anything, it was that dangerous souls lurked in abundance beyond the well-guarded perimeter of the Land of Lightning. The goodly shinobi of The Cloud were in for it this time, however, they knew well enough and came prepared. A storm was on the horizon as the clouds rolled in.

- The Heroes have come.
- Kaji Okada has entered the Country
- Requesting Hoshi, Miraku, and Junko, posting freely.
- Private RP for the first round of posts, then open sesame.

 

[Miraku]

Re: Her Lucky Bones [Private]


After finding out who the three finalists were, it felt somewhat like fate. They had worked together in the past in the same group, though their original fourth hadn't tried out, the three of them managed to make it through together. It had been decided that they would travel together with their Medical Sennin to get to Tea Country first, not only to have Kumo's fighters show up first, but also to scout out the country. They were ANBU of course -- although no one in this country could know that, it wouldn't stop them from performing their duties and making sure everything was safe for their Raikage and villagers who were set to arrive not too long after they would. It would give them enough time to scout out the town and the accommodations where they are their superiors would be staying, as well as the people of this country.

With Miraku, Kaji and Hoshi all being together, it only felt right for them to travel from their homeland to Tea Country with their trusted sea captain, Wokou. After their previous mission using his vessel, they could be sure they felt safe onboard. The ride didn't feel like it took too long with the ability to relax on this travel, unlike last time. The weather certainly got warm fast as they sailed south towards whatever fishing city or dock's Tea Country would have on their seaside. After what seemed like only just a small nap, Miraku woke up to the sound of Wokou calling 'land ho', as they could see their destination in the distance. Standing up, Miraku walked towards the front of the boat to get a better look. He watched as they sailed closer and closer until they were finally there.

As they began to pull into the docks, Kaji spoke up to the group. He told them it was time for them to do a bit of recon, check out some taverns, find some good places within the city and even check out room and board for their superiors like they had planned. Of course, this was also partially a vacation for them while they had the chance to visit another country. They would be able to have fun and explore before their fights, as long as they completed their duties.

Standing near the side of the boat as they rolled into the docks to tie off and let them disembark from the ship, Miraku stood ready in his long black pants, with a long-sleeved shirt on. On top was his village vest, and his headband wrapped around the strap which went over his left shoulder, almost as if to have it near his heart. On his belt were the sheathes to his weapons; a long chokuto sword and dagger on either side, attached at the handles by a long, thin-linked black chain which flowed behind him. On top he still had his jacket on because a man from Kumo could never be hot; or so the saying went. But surely this heat would be a drag with such a thing, the possibility of him removing it soon into their visit was high. And lastly, a backpack worn around his shoulders, carrying his gear and armour for the tournament which he didn't want to wear too early. Looking at his teammates, Miraku knew it was time. "Let's do this boys." he said with a slight smirk on his face, excited for this new adventure. Now it was time for them to head out and represent their village well.

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[Tsuyoshi Junko]

Re: Her Lucky Bones [Private]



After experiencing travel a few times, Junko realized that every place wasn’t as comfortable as home. Every place he had visited so far was so much warmer and at times the temperatures were even scorching. Overall, the saying was true. There’s no place like home.

Being cold was always better than being hot. When you are cold you can put on more clothing, start a fire, snuggle next to your boo, or even make some heat in the bed room. Point blank, you can warm things up with ease. When you’re hot on the other hand, you can take off all your clothes . . . but it’s not suggested. Your boo won’t even want you next to them and their will be no action under any covers. Sounds like hell huh? Burning up and lonely.

Luckily, the medical sennin was able to adapt to the climate more easily, but all he could do was . . . take off clothes. Fortunately enough, he packed the right gear to fit this warmer climate. Wearing his normal business casual attire which consisted of a white dress shirt, black tie, black pants, black belt with a shiny silver buckle, and black boots. Junko simply rolled up his sleeves and added his light weight flak jacket that sported the Kumogakure symbol on its chest area, his shades, his headset, and his katana forged by Saito Akira sheathed at his waist. With all that, he was still hot, but not as hot as Kaji who was sweating in his sleep due his heavy armor and tropical climate.

“This certainly ain’t like my Port Cirrus”

”That’s something we can agree on.” Junko said wiping beads of sweat from his forehead like the old man did. Thumps could be heard with each step across the ships deck as Junko was venturing to the front. His eyes ate the beautiful image at hand as land could finally be seen after traveling upon the endless waves of the world.

“land ho”

Hands is his pockets as the dead awoke, Junko could hear the clunks and stomps upon the deck grow behind him. Some even came his way as Miraku came to the front to gaze upon the marvelous view. ”Beautiful . . .” Junko said.

Then, Kaji mentioned doing some recon and tavern hunting. Junko would definitely explore the foreign lands and have a little to drink, but seeing as he was the chosen medic, tournament alternate, and overseer of the medical operations that’ll occur, Junko wouldn’t have too much to drink. He’d likely do it to socialize and relax before things got started.

As the ship approached docks and began its tie off, Junko grabbed his backpack and tossed it on before Jumping upon the ships side railing. As his gaze shifted from side to side, many people at the docks were busy working, selling, or getting sold to. Some walked as if they were nobles, some as homeless, and of course you had your Average people, but you could also spot groups in the crowds that didn’t seem friendly which were possibly pirates or thugs. Hmm... maybe even other shinobi perhaps...

”First round of drinks on me, but I don’t believe Hoshi is ready to put any hair on his chest just yet.” Junko said before leaping from the ship. Landing on the docks next to Miraku, Junko would look up ahead and notice. . .

 

[Shouyu Hoshi]

Re: Her Lucky Bones [Private]

Upon the sea aboard the trusty speedboat, Her Lucky Bones, the team traveled swiftly against traverse waters. While the others either slept or watched from starboard, Hoshi sat above the speed demon. He was sitting with one knee risen to his chest resting his right arm upon it. He’d lean into his knee and find leverage with his free arm against the waves.

He peered out into the endless waters, in some areas still as a hunting predator, others were coursing with energy from far out. The waves would become taller and crash into white water at the shore which came into slight view before Wokou yelled out. Hoshi snapped out of a daze. He looked around once more. The boat was slowing as they reached Tea Country.

Hoshi was greeted with a warmer climate, quite suitable to his current clothing. He had read upon the terrain and weather and knee to dress accordingly. He wore his usual garments, minus the layers underneath such as thermals. He wore a white kimono too, folded to the left with matching loose fitting white pants, all tied by an apron sash. The apron would begin at his right hip and extend to cover only his left thigh. It bore a crest of the Saito Clan, one that would acknowledge Hoshi as the head.

Upon his forehead the chuunin proudly wore his Kumogakure headband, freshly polished and glinting in the new sunlight. The sun was bright, almost like fire country, hiding behind not a single cloud. From a sitting position, he elevated to stab erect with his left foot forward and his right fist clenched. He thought to himself while the others were exiting. ‘Look how far I’ve come mom… dad…”

Hoshi leapt from the top, landing silently and flexibly with a crouch. He looked back to Wokou with a smirk and a thumbs up.

“Nice work old man. Just like last time. Hey, who’d thought we’d be meeting up for something like this huh? Hey do me a favor, bet fifty thousand yen on my first match for me. Heh, my left eye twitched the whole time coming here.”

Hoshi rose to stand straight once more. His head tilting back as his pale eyes searched the sky to and fro. He inhaled deeply and with a fist pounded his chest one time.

“Mom said that was always a good luck charm. I’ve got a lot to win for. I cannot fail my resolve.”

Hoshi ran up to the rest of the group as if trying to hide the fact that he was lagging getting off the ship. He was no foreigner to travel, he always loved sightseeing. Once the group decided on a tavern and recon Hoshi just placed both hands behind his head and continued walking with a groan. Finally the youth added at the end of everyone’s input.

“The tavern sounds like boring adult fun. I’d rather go spend my money on some new threads for the tournament. Maybe I can find a personal tailor to add some crests to make my own. Gotta win in style.”

Hoshi looked up, and saw a thicket of clouds rolling in. He groaned lightly at the sight, and remembered what his mom said about a storm like this. It was an omen, a bad one usually.

 

[Okada Kaji]

Re: Her Lucky Bones [Private]

Anticipation was brewing as the city of Kurosawa lay before them ready for exploration. Kaji intended to do very little adventuring in the coming days, which was quite a change from his usual ways. Aside from their duties as fighters in the tournament, Kaji expected to do little more than the occasional diplomatic appearance and preparing for his coming match.

Once the team was offboarded, Kaji exchanged a few words and shook hands with Wokou, thanking him for their safe and speedy passage. He offered the Captain to join them at the tavern and board with them for the night before making his return trip, but the salty sea dog insisted on staying within sight of his vessel. “No thanks lad… Gotta keep an eye on me’ possessions” he said while looking about warily. “I could tell from the moment we pulled in, this ain’t nothing but a city of cutpurses and cut throats if I even ‘seen one.” Then the old captain bid the shinobi farewell and left them to their adventuring. They were wise words to consider as the pack of four shinobi began their walk through the many veins of Kurosawa.

Kaji was walking at the front of the pack, though he hardly had more awareness on where to go than his peers. Just as he mentioned on the boat, their task was to secure lodging— not just for themselves, but a place suitable for everyone who swore their allegiance to the Hidden Cloud. However, it was Kaji who had the deep pockets provided for the task, like a blank check signed by the Raikage himself. What he carried was a bit more substantial than a promissory note though, in fact, the bulging sack of gold was proving to be a burden on his pack. There were several locations worth seeking out according to their sources in the city, and one recommended exclusively for the competitors, but Kaji wouldn’t accept a separation of his allies in such a large, dangerous city. They needed someplace quiet that wouldn’t be so complicated by their stay.

A bit of wandering the market and asking around led the shinobi to a rather quaint looking, on a quiet street on the upper-east side of the city. The ground floor functioned mostly as a tavern, and a placard on the entrance read “Muddy Boots and Bloody Blades” in a cursive font. Business looked rather slow, which was just what the Cloud Shinobi were looking for. “This looks adequate” Kaji said as he led the way through swinging double doors making the entrance. “How about we get that first round on Junko, take a load off, and then scope out the place.” Then Kaji slowed his pace enough to step beside Hoshi and added, “you might still be a youngin, but if you can fight you can drink! ‘I’m sure a little something to grow a few hairs on your chest won’t hurt.” Was that a hint of the perfect parenting to come from Kaji? He went to the bar, began a bit of small talk with the barkeep, and loud enough for his comrades to hear clearly, said: “the first mark on the checklist, tasting a round of the Land of Tea's finest ale. A flagon for each of us!” He quickly found an ice-cold mug foaming with a golden lager, and unclasped his leathery jacket before laying it over a chair. He eagerly reclined, took a hearty gulp of the brew, and set it down with a loud thud. "Not bad."

-- Topic Left.
-- Kaji is casaully hanging out in the background.

 

[Miraku]

As the group left the boat, it seemed Wokou was staying behind at his boat instead of coming with them to get a drink and find somewhere to stay. As they wandered around the city, they headed in to the market area, asking around, trying to find out what they could. The people seemed pretty friendly for the most part, and there was certainly buzz around about the tournament. After some searching, they found a tavern which seemed like a decent place to check out. With a name like 'Muddy Boots and Bloody Blades', Miraku felt like it was definitely a place for warriors like themselves to settle down for a bit. Kaji seemed to think it was the right place and led the group through the doors of the entrance before suggesting the group take Junko up on his offer of the first round of drinks. Miraku chuckled a bit, deciding it probably wouldn't be a bad idea to enjoy a good drink with his team before looking around further. It's not like the tournament would be starting for quite a while yet, so they had plenty of time to bounce back from some alcohol. It was also slightly funny to think about the fact that Hoshi was still so young and felt like he wouldn't be able to drink. Miraku was of the belief that someone who was able to risk their life as a full-fledged shinobi deserved the opportunity to have a drink when they wanted, though he supposed that was to avoid them becoming drunks at a young age.

As Kaji headed towards the barkeep, speaking with him a bit, Miraku walked up to the bar as well soon after in order to get himself a drink as well. With flagon's for all, Miraku picked one up and took a sip of it, taking in the flavour for a moment. It wasn't bad, not what he was used to, but something he could enjoy while here. It seemed pretty strong, but that was probably due to the fact that he was more of a casual drinker than someone who drank often. "Got a nice kick to it." He said, trying to give his opinion before looking around the tavern some more. "You think there's enough room here for everyone?" he asked aloud, thinking to himself, as he stood near the group for the time being. Holding his drink still up near his chest, he took another sip before moving to take a seat. It would be nice to relax for a bit now that they were off the boat. He didn't really get sea-sick or anything, but it was always better to be on solid ground.

The bar seemed decently full for this time of day. It was probably due to the forthcoming tournament. Miraku assumed most would be tourists, those visiting for the coming event, having fun during the downtime until it would start, just like his group was at this moment. But they certainly couldn't spend all day here, as the others would be arriving in the next day or so, and would need to be informed on whatever the four of them could discover while here. It just felt good to be here, no matter how things turned out, this would be an experience for sure. So far no one had really recognized the group; Miraku wondered if they would be recognized later on, or if that wouldn't happen until after the tournament. It was hard to tell what kind of information would be presented to the public before the tournament.

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[Tsuyoshi Junko]

Noticing the group moving forward, Junko walked beside Kaji as they searched for a tavern. Whispers could be heard about the tournament here and there. Junko even spotted a few women pointing and whispering about the shinobi as they moved about. Coming upon the “Muddy Boots And Bloody Blades” tavern, Junko rose a brow as the group entered through the swinging double doors. The place definitely had a manly feel to it, and with such a name Junko couldn’t help but feel like this place was for the strongest of men. Surprisingly someone wasn’t on the outside asking “How tough are ya?”, before you were permitted to enter.



Business seemed slow, but the place still had various people inside who took note of the foreigners as they entered. In fact, many were just mentioning the tournament and what type of possible competition and strength laid beyond the sea in foreign lands. Others on the other hand were taking part in other things such as drinking games, pool, and arm wrestling. Removing his glasses and taking a seat as Kaji spoke with the bartender, Junko placed some money on the counter top. As promised, the first round was on him.

“the first mark on the checklist, tasting a round of the Land of Tea's finest ale. A flagon for each of us!”

In seconds, a chilled mug filled with a golden elixir was placed in front of him topped off with foam. Grabbing the mug, Junko immediately tipped it up. Taking three gulps, that all too familiar taste of alcohol filled his mouth the drink traveled to his belly. ”ooooohh, not bad at all!!” Junko said as the others gave their opinions as well. All good reviews so far, but the youngest had yet to take his first drink.

- Topic Left