Into the Howling Dark [Private]

[Okada Kaji]

Tales of Suspense #002
Into the Howling Dark</FONTFACE>

The grandest adventures often begin within the illusion of a mundane task. Troubles of the unbelievable sort exist in spades below the tunnels of the Sileo Tempestas. As the protectors of these ancient passages, it is the ANBU who are tasked with exploring them in the rare event that a new corridor is revealed. If you are reading this then you have been chosen for the special skills you possess. A party of ANBU has been assembled with the task of exploring and chartering a new passage discovered after a recent incident within the Sileo. While the time of day means little within the subterranean levels of the Sileo, you have been summoned to a supply cache in the early morning, about 5:30 am, to assemble with your team and receive whatever tools you desire for the job. As shinobi your natural abilities may vary, so everything available there is considered optional.

OC: This thread is open to Cloud ANBU for the duration of the first round of posts.

<FONTFACE fontface="georgia">
The air was dusty and stagnant within the supply depot— at least in a majority of the complex, which kept a vast inventory of weapons, equipment, and gear for The Cloud’s ANBU. This space was essentially a warehouse; a large echoing chamber colored cardboard brown and shades of grey from the walls carved from stone. Only a few shinobi staffed the place in the early morning hours, mostly there to fetch items for whoever came with requisition lists. It was a boring job but had to be done— though, as the shinobi assigned to the morning’s quest came, they’d receive jealous glares from the depot attendees.

First among the influx of a shinobi party came Kaji Okada, who came long ahead of schedule and spent his time inspecting everything he plundered from the depot. Despite supposedly embarking for a simple exploration into a hole, Kaji came dressed for a journey as if he were about to scale Momento Deo. His long, obsidian strands of hair were bound behind his head in a loose knot with his bangs sweeping back like drapery. Emeraldine eyes were looking down, scanning over a worn climbing ax in his hands. Apparently, he was wiser than to solely rely on even the most expert tree-climbing abilities in the wet and dark tunnels. His firm jaw was tucked beneath a thick scarf, hiding his lips and the perpetual snarl they made in those early hours. Kaji swept aside a haze gray cloak to reveal his ANBU apparel beneath it and fit the ax on his waist among a multitude of other items attached to his belt. Black breeches ran down to charcoal-colored armor padding his knees and shins, to black climbing boots on his feet. The ever-ready Commander Okada had his hands full this time, at first thinking it ideal to search the new passage alone, but the rationale that the opportunity deserved a team’s endeavor, he decided to gather some younglings for the assist. Aye, a team of The Cloud’s finest ANBU could have been gathered, but then other operations would have gone unattended. So Kaji saw it as a fine opportunity to see how the newest class of ANBU might handle the darkness of an unexplored cavern. He expected to find danger once they embarked, but nothing a squad of ANBU in training couldn’t handle… right?

-- Kaji Okada has entered the thread.
-- ANBU welcome.
-- Is this just a meet and greet adventure?
-- [EDIT 9/22/18] Thread made private.

 

[Sukuna Kiyo]

Re: Into the Howling Dark [Open/Anbu]

Aya received a note that she'd been assigned to a team to go explore something below the Silo. She was surprised that she got a mission, of sorts, that is below the village. It would be interesting none-the-less. Aya put on her anbu gear since she didn't want to dress in her normal clothing, she never wore her "genin" outfit around the Silo. It just didn't feel right. She figured if they were going below the Silo, in the corridors, she'd need to make she had the proper uniform. She used Taijutsu, so the only "weapon" she had was her fighting gloves. She was planning on upgrading them to gantlets soon.

Aya didn't take long to get to the warehouse, she arrived a bit early to make sure she got what she needed, she went to pick up extra gear, rope, a backpack, rations. Bare minimum, since too much could get heavy. She noticed the glares and smirked, not because she was showing off that she was going instead of these extras, it was because she thought glaring for petty reasons was below ANBU standards. '

Aya looked around and noticed the only other person who looked like they were going on a hike. He had to be apart of the team going down. So Aya approached him. "Hello." She stated with a wave. She had yet to meet any other higher ranking shinobi, other than Uri, so she didn't know who they were as of yet. She was told their names, or code names, maybe, but she didn't know what they looked like. So Aya assumed this guy was of her rank, or maybe just a rank higher.

[Topic entered]

 

[Kiri]

Re: Into the Howling Dark [Open/Anbu]

There was still a pang of guilt in his chest as he knew very well he was part of what caused this. The untimely encounter with the then vice-commander, but now commander of the ANBU had been the occasion of what created the destruction that led to the discovery of the pathways. Uri had known that he would serve a great deal of community service but he didn’t think he would be asked to join the team that would be exploring the unknown. He simply accepted the mission given to him without a question, followed instruction, and appeared at the designated area before the time.

Approaching the man he had the honor of getting acquainted a few days ago, Uri would greet him with a courteous bow. For today’s mission, he wore his dark coat and red oni mask. After all, it was an official anbu mission and so he had to play the part of a proper operative. Not that he needed to introduce himself since Kaji would already know him both with and without the mask on, so it would be alright.

Among those who were invited was one of his wards, Aya from his first unit. He saw the potential in the girl through their classes and training and was confident in her abilities to contribute to this endeavor. He gave her an acknowledging nod before he stood in wait for any instruction. He couldn’t help but wonder if the others in the first unit would join them. On that note, where was Eiji and Ryuichi. Perhaps he should have stopped by the apartment before he came straight from Shuuten’s place.

[Topic Entered]

 

[Honnou]

Re: Into the Howling Dark [Open/Anbu]

Oh? Honnou found it interesting to have received a letter right now, of all times. Apparently, there had been discovered a new area, a cavern right below the Sileo where the boy returned from a few days ago. There was potentially a new passage and corridor for the Sileo and the ANBU, so taking a good look at the new spaces underneath it was deemed absolutely necessary. It also sparked his excitement, since exploring caves and unseen areas were… well… exciting. They were always exciting; to not know where you’re heading for, where you’ll end up… and if your exploration would benefit or not.

Hon would quickly look over the extra equipment accessible for him back at the warehouse - but he remembered to bring his two carpal gauntlets. Feeling rather secure with those as his equipment alone, he simply grabbed a rope, a small flashlight, backpack and a set of ANBU garments. He also had some energy pills in a pocket… just in case if the cave tried to hug them and never let go.

The smallest boy around saw three people having joined the team; the Vice Commander, his own upperclassman and the oddly familiar girl from earlier. Despite the garments and his new ANBU mask that was slightly letting out bluish glows from his eyes through the eye cracks, there were still exposed areas around his neck and arms that revealed greenish scales looking like implanted emeralds…

A little peace sign from his left hand to greet the others...

[Topic Entered]

 

[Hak]

Re: Into the Howling Dark [Open/Anbu]

A note arrived as the young bandaged man read it silently in his hand. Folding it neatly, he placed it in his left breast pocket and made his way to the designated place and time. Wearing his ANBU attire with no mask, he made his way to the warehouse as he looked around. Supplies would be needed; however, he possessed little experienced in exploration.

He hardly cared for rations. He grabbed the absolute bare necessity. Water and hydration were among his highest priorities. The letter did not state how long they would be exploring. The next step was to get appropriate gear. Grabbing a few climbing tools, he looked up only to realize the clerks had all but vanished from sight. The image of a bandaged man with sinister looking eyes all but scared them away. It did not help that his ANBU gear was black and padded. Perhaps he looked a little ready for the wrong thing he thought genuinely to himself. As always, his appearance always seemed to attract the wrong attention after all.

Upon readying his gear, he made his way over to where the rest of the group were waiting. Two seemed to be trainees such as himself, at least that was the vibe they gave off. The other two had a far more commanding presence, definitely leaders or at the very least far more experienced than the rest of them. He wasn't quite sure why he knew that it was merely an instinct that bubbled up within him. He nodded to the group as a way to greet them but didn't say too much. He wasn't attempting to come off rude, but Kano was a stickler for rules. He wanted to speak only when answers were required of him.

TOPIC ENTERED​

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[Shouyu Hoshi]

Re: Into the Howling Dark [Open/Anbu]

Pfft. Pfft. Pfft. Pfft.

Trot-trot. Trot-trot. Fwap!

The feather steps of two shinobi echoed down the stone walls of the Sileo. The shinobi’s fingertips of his right hand barely skimmed the cold rocky barricade. The tingle of its chilling feel sent a shiver down the teenage boy’s spine. For so long now, he was walked up and down these corridors gaining rank and obtaining new infinite knowledge. The young Hyuga was finally reporting for duty again after a long time training in the depths of Kuminari. Beside him, a would be colossal otter had it not been for a transformation jutsu, trotted beside him with slapping finned feet.

Mizu: “Let’s show them what we’ve learned since then. Don’t be embarrassed young master. We fought with our hearts.”

Hoshi: “Win or lose. I was never embarrassed to represent my village. But the words of that man, they still stir my heart.”

Mizu: “Do not lose faith. Our ninja way is just and pure. Why do you care so much? Aren’t you a ninja.”

Shouyu paused before opening the door. He was donned in full anbu combat armor. From his feet were light almost soundless slide in sneakers. His greaves were first covered with a light chain mail and topped with black thermal joggers which tailored nicely to his slim figure. His torso was adorned with the same chain mail, covered with a thin iron breastplate which lead to small shoulder pads. Around his forearms he bore plates to defend against his opponents weapons or Justus. Across his back which lay slightly rested to the right, was his short sword ninjato. His right leg held a Kunai holster by a bandage wrapped around. At his hip laying horizontal was a three pronged flail folded neatly and ready for use. He was already sporting he’s bandages which wrapped around his hands tightly. The weapons and taijutsu expert, Shouyu Hoshi.

He pushed open the door and the first to burst through would be Mizu, a rambunctious ball of energy. He rolled, after completing would jump out and pose with two of his four fingers. In this form the otter hadn’t developed thumbs and was only known to use shuriken, but in his true form he would possess human like hands. The brown beady eyed marine mammal chuckled as Hoshi entered to see a couple familiar faces. He would then move his right hand to remove the blue tainted fox mask. The young man would then descend to one knee and bow to his superior, Kaji.

“... Reporting for duty. Let’s a mission well done. I- oh?”

He was attempting his best at being presentable and courteous. For the most part, everyone knew Hoshi to act the same as Mizu. Of course the teen was still heavily attached to his inner child, and by seeing his pupil, Honnou, he became ecstatic. He rushed over and embraced the young boy the hip and lifted him off the ground cheering and speaking to kaji.

“HE MADE IT INTO THE RANKS?!? I AM PROUD!!!!!!”

There goes professionalism out the window. And cue music, Hoshi is back.

*cracks knuckles* TOPIC ENTERED

 

[Mishiku]

Re: Into the Howling Dark [Open/Anbu]

Mishiku rushed over to the destination that he received from the ANBU pigeon. He was to meet with his team in the subterranean levels of the Sileo, although the mission details were quite vague and all he knew was that he had to help escort some supply cache. He equipped all of his weapons and ANBU armor without his mask and made sure not to underestimate anything, even though this was technically not a mission he felt this would be a good opportunity to prove to his superiors that he was one step closer to becoming a full fledged ANBU operative. Mishiku swiftly arrived at the meeting coordinates and recognized that there was already a handful of people already there, one of them being the commander of the ANBU forces. "I guess this isn't going to be a simple task....]." Mishiku murmured to himself. He could only imagine how this mission would end but he figured that it would bring him one step closer to proving to his smug elder brothers that he had grown into an even greater shinobi then they were. He recognized other members of the ANBU and nodded his head in acknowledgement. He walked up to one of the AITs that seemed to be covered in bandages, "Do you have any idea on what the mission is? The note that I received was real vague." Mishikku asked. If the commander of ANBU operations was here then he could be sure that this would turn out to be an interesting adventure.

[Entering Topic]
[TFT]
(Sorry for the weak post. It's real late and I'm real tired. I'll make up for it throughout the topic.)

 

[Okada Kaji]

Re: Into the Howling Dark [Open/Anbu]

Aya Kozuki. Uri Eru. Honnou Hyuuga. Kano Arakaku. Hoshi Shouyu. Mishiku.

There was a good purpose in the selection of candidates for the quest, though the many reasons would reveal themselves in time. Some were obvious though— the young shinobi needed to be tested in various ways. Among the group of five came an assortment of youth; fresh-faced candidates, loners versus others deliberately separated from their familiar comrades, and prodigies chipping away at the ceilings of their limits. While Kaji Okada did not know most of these ANBU personally, he intended to take away knowledge from witnessing this new generation in action. As their commander, he was sure to provide a wealth of knowledge to the candidates on the expedition, in return. There was much to gain from this foray into some potentially uncharted depths within the Sileo Tempestas; at was quickly shaping up to be an adventure of the purest variety. Just what they’d encounter down there was a mystery, even to Kaji, who had flipped through a few volumes of historic manuals provided by one of his aides. The history of the Hidden Cloud’s mountain and her people was incredibly vast— but one thing promised to Kaji was that there was more forgotten to time that there were records saved. Various regime changes and the occasional disaster all have a way of erasing even the most protected secrets over time, especially in such a secretive society. In truth, Commander Okada and his squad might have been undermanned for the quest, or find absolutely nothing but a dead end awaiting them below— only time would tell.

Just as Kaji finished preparing and idled about, he was approached by the first of his ilk. Kaji immediately assessed Aya Kozuki as being of the rough and tumble sort of kunoichi, energetic, tenacious, and direct enough to greet him rather than shirking away shyly. She said hello, earning a welcoming smirk from Kaji Okada in return.
“And a good morning to you— Miss Kozuki, I presume?” Kaji made a safe assumption of her identity as he made eye contact with Aya, watching as her pupils seemed to shift hues in the light. As the only girl of the bunch, she stood out from her peers. “You showed up early, that’s good. Assessing the environment before your allies arrive— that’s the making of a smart shinobi. It’s also how you find the best equipment. Here, take this.” Kaji reached into the traveling pack on his hip and drew a small hardback booklet and handed it to Aya. It had a plain cover the color of goldenrod, and stained parchment pages full of printed glyphs and translations. Inside the cover, the book was titled The Ancient Kaminari Field Manual, Fifth Edition.
“I believe we’ll need this once we’re below— think it’s a challenge you’re willing to accept?” It was like Kaji to expect the fist-fighter to become the translator, though he waited for a potential protest. “If it's not to your liking you have comrades... delegate.”

On cue, the first of those comrades began to trickle into the warehouse, though Uri Eru wasn’t likely someone Aya would try delegating her job to give he was a superior and all. Normally, Uri would have been more of the candidate for leading this sort of task than a mere follower, but the events that caused it was actually his fault. Bringing him along seemed more like punishment for Uri, but Kaji did foresee some use in Uri’s skill set if things took a turn for the worse below. For the moment though, Kaji attended to any questions Aya might have, that is until Honnou and Kano emerged.

“Your burns appear to be healing well, candidate Honnou,” said Kaji observantly as the blue-eyed lad came forth. “The scales should start peeling in a couple weeks— eh, by the looks of it with minimal scar tissue. ‘Bhelzira does good work.” He formed a slight smile at the admiration of his beast comrade’s work but felt especially awkward when he noticed the subject of scarred tissue all over Kano. His emeraldine eyes squinted as Kaji observed Kano, instantly recognizing him for the features his Sileo record highlighted— scarring that even Bhelzira wouldn’t be able to heal. But Kano didn’t let it stop him, therefore neither would Kaji Okada, who stepped forth to meet him. “Kano Araraku... your reputation precedes you, but I’m ready to see what you’re really made of. This’ll be your chance.”
But before Kaji could delve into more conversation with Kano or Honnou, the sounds of someone most familiar came within an earshot— indeed, it was the return of the fabled prodigy, Hoshi, who had come accompanied by Mizu. “Ah, Hoshi its you, I knew you’d make it” exalted Kaji in call to Hoshi. The were squadmates in the past, enduring an incredible adventure on the high seas unlike anything seen in The Cloud’s long history. It was a long stretch to summon Hoshi from his training in isolation, but there was, in good form. “Now we’re ready for anything” chirped Kaji, confident in the ragtag bunch as he reached for a brotherly, fraternal handshake with young Hoshi that almost resembled hand seals being formed. Perhaps the other anbu would learn in time.

“Alright, that should be everyone” surmised the Commander as he called the attention of the room. Alas, he had forgotten someone, the last stranger who was marching into the warehouse as Kaji addressed the squad. Aye, Kaji had forgotten about a last-minute addition to the team, an unsavory one to Kaji due to a single feature disclosed in the young candidate’s portfolio. Mishiku had come; he was among brethren as a worthy cloud shinobi, though there was a curse running through the core of his DNA… he was born as Uchiha scum in the emerald eyes of one prejudice Kaji Okada, who loathed their kind. “Oh, I almost spoke too soon,” said Kaji, keeping a professional tone despite cutting a suspicious glare at Mishiku. “Welcome comrade, join us. We were just about to begin.”

Aside from his own belongings, Kaji revealed another backpack which he set on the floor. He squatted low and began fishing through as he resumed his speech of sorts. “For those who don’t know me, allow me to introduce myself formally— Grand Commander Kaji Okada, though you can refer to me by whatever title suits you; O-san, Master Okada, Kaji-sensei, or just Kaji if we have a personal rapport like that. ‘I don’t really care. ‘Anyways, we’re gathered here today for an expedition… I recognize that exploring isn’t usually in the ANBU purview but it's necessary when it comes to our own domain. ‘Overseeing the security of the Sileo Tempestas is a chief responsibility of our branch, particularly The Silent House Division, which you are all a part of until you receive permanent assignments.
‘The purpose of this expedition is to map out a new expanse discovered within the Sileo. Given the dubious nature of this mountain’s system of chasms and tunnels beneath it, we are sure that potential for finding risks to the village’s safety is rather high as long as we are unaware of where the opening leads. There could be some form of terrestrial species habitats within, or, no bullshit, a demon asleep for the last thousand years or something. Skies the limit here.”
Kaji then revealed two pairs of high-tech looking goggles and tossed one to Honnou and Hoshi. “Hoshi will take the point and Honnou will shadow him— these goggles are designed to harness the residual chakra from your byakugan and emanate a short-range light source; the dial on the temple adjusts the intensity.” The pair were state of the art developments from R&D, made to fit comfortably beneath their masks if worn in combination.
“Uri— your job is to carry the rear as party sentinel. I’m also burdening you with duty as the gourmand; this mission could take days so you’ll handle preparing meals and building our campsites with your subordinates.” He tossed the rest of the backpack to Uri, which revealed an ample selection of cooking supplies stowed in labeled item scrolls, and preserved foodstuffs in the event the party could not source up some game to eat, which was likely.
“Kano, Aya, and Mishiku, your tasks will be charting a map of our journey, translating anything ancient we might discover, and covering the flanks of our movement if we have moments where the tunnels become broad. You may decide amongst yourselves who does what, or just work together.” Like before, Kaji set out the tools for those details; Aya was already handed the book, but Kaji tossed a satchel containing a compass, a map of the pre-established Sileo Tempestas with room for expansion, and various tools for marking additions.
“The hole is in one of the training cells and begins in a straight drop that descends pretty far down into the uncharted territory. While I’m recommending that everyone prepare to rappel down, I won’t argue if any of you think you can handle wall walking the entire way. So, let’s be on our ways; I’m itching to get underway.”

- This thread is now private.
- No Posting Order. New rounds commence every weekend.

 

[Shouyu Hoshi]

Re: Into the Howling Dark [Open/Anbu]

Hoshi set the younger version of himself upon the floor and took his position among the summoned. Another would enter shortly after Kaji introduced himself and greeted everyone. The debriefing began and Hoshi reverted back to his serious self. His eyes were fixated on Kaji as he spoke upon the task at hand. When Kaji acknowledged Hoshi, he would only nod at his commander’s approval of his appearance. The last time he worked with Kaji this closely, he was just a lad. And at that time, he was barely to escape with the skin attached to his bones still. This chilling thought made Hoshi recollect himself and look around to his team. Honestly, besides Honnou and Kaji, Hoshi was clueless to the others. His pale hues wandered over and across every shinobi in attendance. They each showed promise with a familiar light in their eyes. If anyone noticed him staring, they would see a slight smirk upon his face.

Right before Kaji was going to start up, the last walked in and his eyes darted over. First, last, early, late, it mattered not to Hoshi. If you showed up, you showed up. He thought nothing less of the shinobi, in fact, his expectations of the ninja would sky rocket considering the words from Kaji directed toward him. The teen closed his eyes with a prideful smirk and thought to himself, ‘I am more than confident in my team.’

He was rudely nudged by Mizu with an actually sickening elbow to his kidney. Hoshi would cringe, tightening his eyebrows together as he winced. His response was a light shove, empowered by his right palm pushing through Mizu’s current feeble stature. The two would begin to stare at each other menacingly and start a shoving match that would conclude in Mizu gaining size until he was as tall as Kaji but wide full of muscle mass and still Hoshi pushed with the two rubbing foreheads together.

Kaji: ‘Anyways..’

Kaji sought to continue and the two almost immediately calmed down with Mizu shrinking. They both paid close attention as he spoke. His speech alone stirred up the spirits of the boy. It was more of a exploration than anything but the underlying variables could prove to be life threatening to the team, and the village in whole. The thought of demons taking refuge underneath his home village erupted a blue flame within his heart. The hot blooded shinobi was instantly war ready, those akin to the aura of one’s emotions and physical power could feel the air thickening from Hoshi’s excitement. Or from Mizu rudely stating-

Mizu: “Hey, Hoshi. Simmer down. Don’t get your panties in a bunch. Geez, someone says demon, you say where.”

Mizu rolled his eyes and leaned over into Hoshi using him as a kickstand. Mizu was partially true, his emotions did activate, but he also was in no attempt to undermine the severity of the current situation. He hoped that the precautionary steps taken by himself, would give light to the younger shinobi that this was going to be no walk in the forest. Kaji then beckoned the hyugas forward with a pair of highly compatible binoculars. After further explanation, Hoshi would activate his byakugan within a blink and look through the enhanced goggles. He noticed that once he placed them upon his hues they became like a lantern which emitted a small range of light. Hoshi nodded, he would look over to Honnou and nod once more.

“Honnou, I’m counting on you.”

Kaji then assigned Uri to defend the rear. He had not know the boy, or even seen him before in the village since his time away training. He sighed to himself lightly ashamed of all that he missed out of his own selfishness to become stronger. He rationalized quickly by seeing that his returned was welcomed and appreciated. He signaled Mizu with his right hand.

“Mizu, accompany him at the rear. Use your sonar to detect anything and be informative.”

Mizu: “Got it!”

Mizu would follow the young boy at the back while the rest were detailed with highly important jobs. Hoshi quickly tried to deduce Kaji’s reasoning for the line up. Either way, the front and back would have to be the walls for the center. He clutched his left fist tightly and began to focus on his breathing so not to lose concentration. Kaji disclosed the entry location. Hoshi would beckon for Honnou to follow and inform the others of his progression.

“Ready when you guys are.”

Hoshi moves the binoculars to his left hand and kept them positioned at eye level to provide sufficient light for his scribes. With his right hand, Hoshi drew the kunai from its holster wrapped around his leg. He held it just beneath his chin horizontally, a defensive stance as he would slowly begin traverse the unknown depths of the Sileo.

 

[Sukuna Kiyo]

Aya smiled at Kaji, he already knew who she was, and she gave him a nod. "Aya is fine, most call me that for now." She said, she should probably get a codename, or make one up... She was just really bad at names, she called herself a number last time she tried thinking of a name... Her birth name could be her code name since no one knew her birth name, but her mother would, and her father would once she met them... Maybe it didn't really matter, Aya was a vague name, and there were probably hundreds of others with that name. Just scratch out the last name. She'd probably earn a nickname eventually, that or she'll do one stupid thing that would stick to her like glue for the rest of her life.

Kaji complemented her on arriving early, she didn't expect to be the first one, but she was glad she was. Kaji handed her a booklet, it looked old, and it was similar to what her tutor, Kyo, gave her. She opened it and saw it was a translation book, for the ancient language of Kumo, she was familiar with the language, but she was far from fluent in it. She was a fast reader and could find things pretty quickly. "I am definitely up for this challenge." She said with a grin, she had skimmed the books Kyo gave her, so she was at least familiar with the language. If she needed help she hoped someone could lend a hand.

soon after more people showed up, and Kaji greeted them. Aya realized this guy was one of the highest-ranking Anbu members, and she was so casual with him. SHe was surprised at how cool he was, she expected to be yelled at for being disrespectful like that, but maybe he didn't see it as disrespect. Either way, she was a bit embarrassed about it. She shook the feeling as the rest of the group came, Her sensei Uri was invited as well. She acknowledged him with a nod. This would be the first mission she'd be on with him, she was still salty about him leaving her out of the team's first mission and having someone not even anbu related take her place. She'd always be a little salty about that.

Soon enough Kaji started the briefing, Aya stopped looked around and closed the book to listen in. The Hyuuga's were appointed to the front, Aya, Kano, and Hon was the middle, and Uri was the rear. Protecting the back was important, she was surprised he was slapped with cooking duty as well, well at least she knew they'd be eating good food. When Kanji said their might be demons, she instinctively touched her scars on her arm. The last time she faced a demon, she nearly lost her arm. She was lucky it was a very weak demon... She was much stronger now.

Aya knew Hon since he lived in the same apartment, Uri and hon were the only people she knew, oh and the mummy boy. But she never got his name, or at least she didn't remember it.

Once Kaji was done, Aya looked at the others. Hon, and Hoshi were up front. Luckily Kaji referred to most by name so she knew who was who, at least until she forgot their names. She looked at the other who was also assigned to the middle. She stepped over to Kano and Mishiku. "Hey there, I'm on Translation duty, I can handle that." She said bluntly, Aya jumped straight to the point, no point in beating around the bush. She did have the translation book after all, but if one of them was fluent in reading and speaking the language, maybe she would be willing to let them take her place. Maybe. "I can help with mapping, but I'm sure you two got it." She said with a thumbs up. She planned on being right in the front of the middle section.

 

[Mishiku]

The adventure begins.

Mishiku recognized based off the physical features of the other members of the squad that he was one of the oldest. Mishiku was only twenty years old but he felt much older from the other candidates but then again he could be completely wrong about their age. Before the mummified boy could say anything in response, the commander had begun the briefing. Exploring the undocumented areas of the cavern would be an interesting experience, although it had been quite awhile Mishiku did learn quite a bit in his history lessons from the academy but nothing from the caverns really peaked Mishiku’s interest other than understanding the geography and that a lot of the documents detailing the unknown parts of the caverns had been lost. It mattered not, he was going to discover any lost history during their expedition, however finding a demon would make for an interesting twist in this adventure and would be a great test to see how far he had come in terms of his fighting prowess and power.

The commander delegated three of the squad members to guard the rear and requested that one of them be the cook for the adventure. “Come to think of it, I didn’t really have much to eat today. I might have to see how his cooking skills are.” Mishiku thought to himself.He had learned from an early age on how to be a descent cook and wouldn’t mind helping prepare food for the team that is if there was any sufficient game in these dark caverns. Only time would tell. Kaji threw a satchel towards and Mishiku reached his hand out to grab it and opened it to discover a compass, a map, and some tools to make any additional changes to the map. Mishiku squat down to inspect the map further and as Kaji said the map’s markings began to disappear once inside the training cell.

Aya made her way over to him and Kano, "Hey there, I'm on Translation duty, I can handle that." Mishiku liked her confidence, she must be pretty proficient in translating the ancient language if Kaji directed her for the job. “We’re glad to have you, Kano and I will handle the mapping so you can focus entirely on translating. My translating skills are a little rusty but I would appreciate it if you can teach me what you know throughout our journey so I can learn as well.” Mishiku responded with a genuine smile. These were to be his future ANBU comrades and this would be a good opportunity for the three of them to work as a cohesive and effective unit especially if they were assigned to be on point for the expedition. Mishiku examined the map once again to make sure he solidified all the markings of the map in his short-term memory.

“Kano, since we’re in charge of the map then it is safe to assume we are to take point with the commander to make sure we don’t miss any details. I’ll watch your six, while you watch mine.” Mishiku suggested as he handed him the compass. He didn’t know if Kaji expected them to be on point with him or to fall back in the middle of the group but Mishiku would assume to take point, if anything he would learn a little bit more from the commander and build some rapport with him and what he is looking for in terms of ANBU, operatives once they graduate.

“Anyway, let’s get started.” Mishiku muttered. He took a quick glance to Kanji, “Commander, If you would like us to fall back to the middle then let us know but Kano and I will join you in the front of the group since we are charting the map throughout our journey. That is if Kano is up for that, his call.” Although Mishiku knew he had enough chakra control to traverse the depths of the cavern without the help of a rappel he nevertheless began to professionally wrap the rope around his waist and threw it over to Kano and Aya. “I’m sure neither of you needs it but it would be a good idea for all three of us to be connected by this rope in case something happens during our descent into complete darkness, especially since we are charting the map and providing directions.” Although Mishiku had the Sharingan, which gave him the ability to see everyone’s chakra in the pitch blackness of the caverns he wanted the rappel for Kano and Aya’s safety in case they didn’t have an ability to see in the darkness. Mishiku made sure the map was tucked away safely in his breast pocket of his outfit and he stepped to the edge of the slope and slowly began his descent into the underworld.

 

[Honnou]

Yeah, Hon didn’t expect to be picked up like that. His height was showing, it appeared… it begged the question; where had Hoshi been, anyway? Hon figured that he must’ve been somewhere else during the young boy’s journey to Tea Country, but his knowledge about the Hyuuga’s whereabouts was faint. He was full of energy, just like back home with the elders and at his dojo, so unless Hon didn’t know him any better, then he would guess that Hoshi had been out training… oh! Maybe he had invented a brand new Jutsu, or maybe he had heavily improved on his Hachimon. However, Hoshi wasn’t the only Hyuuga who had new tricks up his sleeve…

Hon gave a quick thumbs-up to Kaji concerning the scales. Yes, they were doing a good job; the intense, sore pain was of the past, and recovery was a fact. They were a little weird to sleep with, though; having gem-like lizard skin on you like bandage did feel like sleeping with pieces of armor on your naked body.

Hon did know of many from here; Uri, Kaji, Aya- wait, her real name was Aya? That was... fair. Anyway, and surprisingly Kano as well. He hadn’t seen that bandaged lad since back at Tea where they were tracking down stars. It appeared that the only new person in Hon’s field of vision was Mishiku. Hmh… time would tell more about this shinobi. Because of the circumstances, Hon wasn’t in the mood for scanning down people through ‘glaring’ or straight up initiate a conversation.

He would sharply listen to Kaji’s explanation about the underground cave that had, presumably, been unexplored for what must’ve been ages given by his words. Despite being an exploration of the cave, which felt more like the duty for shinobis of the Main Branch, the mystic nature of it and the theoretic assumptions proved to need their assistance.

Grabbing a pair and walking forth with Hoshi in front of him, Hon realized that he was holding two pairs of high-technological goggles. No doubt, they were meant to enhance his and Hoshi’s Visual Prowess with the dial on the temple adjusting the intensity of a light source that would help them see things deep under the pitch-black rock biome. Unlike Hoshi, though, the younger lad’s eyes were already active - blue, constant Byakugan - as he put on the goggles. He was different from the other Hyuuga... just as he wanted to.

He would then nod back to Hoshi with a smile, confident in the succession of their mission.

He was right behind the Hachimon Hyuuga on their way… but seeing the hole in the middle of the training cell prompted him to take a look. With his goggles, he assumed the depth to be tremendous; the light sort of died out the further down it got. Mishiku was already prepared with the rappel and was descending down, so Hon began walking down and get further in order to keep the front along with Hoshi and with the mapping and translation group following suit.

And thus, there was no point of return…

 

[Sukuna Kiyo]

[I have to leave the topic since I'll be going on partial hiatus/ then disappearing for a few more months. - Aya will give the book to Kano and Mishiku so they can do the translation. Sorry I didn't know how to write an exit thread for this]

 

[Hak]

No introduction was necessary from Okada Kaji's behalf, as expected from someone in charge of the group. He commanded a presence and came off quite knowledgeable. Kano bowed respectfully towards Kaji as the ANBU spoke of him, a show of appreciation for how the commander handled himself.

A menacing and cold like demeanor expressed in his motion and mannerisms; although the reality was that he was embarrassed to have been known already, knowing that the man would likely also know of his unbandaged form of he knew of him before speaking. For those unfamiliar with Kano, he would seem aloof, cold, and distant. The reality was he was shy, easily embarrassed, and kind of a fearful lad despite his menacing appearance. It was likely already on his file that he had a rather odd inclination to appear villainous despite a very kind-hearted nature.

As Kaji introduced himself and the tasks at hand, Kano's eyes wandered to the teammate he was assigned. He recognized the blond haired girl from another social outing in a previous engagement. Shortly after the briefing, she quickly came over and spoke with an air of confidence about her. That's how she was he recalled, she acted the same way during her gambling episode with some one-armed teen from before.

The second teammate, Mishiku began to take charge a bit as well. A bad habit of Kano's was his inability to lead or take charge, something he would have to work on soon. For now, he was more comfortable with them taking the lead and him being the driver in the sense of the word. Unlike the Sharingan possessed by the teammate, Kano had no such abilities and had to rely on his senses instead.

He grabbed the compass provided by Kaji that Mishiku handed him and looked at the young shinobi with a deadpan face.

"Yeah." he responded stupidly as a response to watching each other's backs. Kano was not at all a disrespectful individual, but his appearance, demeanor, and lack of social aptitude often led to misunderstandings and confusion on his actual personality.

Shortly before starting the mission, however, it seemed that their teammate Aya had remembered something of importance that required her attention. Grabbing the book for translation, he tucked it safely into his inner jacket pocket as he looked back over to Mishiku. It seemed their team had been reduced by one, but he figured they would handle it somehow.

Kano would be in charge of the compass and translation it seemed. He did have experience in speaking the ancient tongue, though only one variant as the other still eluded him. The book would come in handy if they came across the variation that was unfamiliar to him. His nerdy days in the library may very well come useful on this explorative expedition.

[OOC: I didn't know how to have Aya leave so I did it simply, if I need to change it, let me know.]