You Brought the Bag of Sand Right? [Dual Contract Search]

[Osuteno]

Raiden’s Eye, the elegant and bustling capital of Kaminari no Kuni, seated in the very heart of the country, for nearly a thousand years has been the seat of the Shogunate. In its history it has seen the rise and fall of countless powerful families and individuals, but the city itself has never shrugged. The most distinct feature of the city is the palace of the Shogunate, for all its decoration and grandeur is at its foundations a castle made to bring all the factions of the country under heel. It is said that for each and every master artist devoted to the spiritual placement and design of one of the many koi ponds, for every respected gardener tending to precious flowers and herbs and ancient trees, for every seasoned and renowned Chef in charge of perfectly crafting whatever course of whatever meal they were tasked with, and for every game master dedicated to managing the on site hunting grounds, five master builders would be dedicated to inspecting and improving the defenses of the fortress itself and a hundred man battle seasoned unit to manning it.

In the inner circle of the city outside the walls of the palace, is the district of the nobility, filled with ancient estates of grand architecture, great works of art, tombs of oldest and most powerful families and the heroes that fought in their names. There is not a night of the year where some grand party or ball is not occurring to entertain the residents of this district. In particular, tonight the family of a Daimyo was celebrating the coming of age of the family heir, and went against expectations by coming to the capital to celebrate instead of hosting the celebration in their own seat of power in the East. It was easily expected to be the event of the season.

The estate where the party was being held was being lent as a very generous by the Shogun, the location being a small palace built long ago for the Shogunate heir to live more accessibly to the general aristocracy and to cement relations before ascending to the Palace. Given the life events of the current Shogun, it had remained unused but extremely well guarded for quite some time. With all the wealth and treasures on the property, it was as tightly guarded as any vault, paling only to the security of the palace itself… Except for tonight.

Hundreds of nobles, military leaders, and court officials were gathering in their finest apparel and accompanied by their most trusted advisors and attractive entourages. Despite their numbers and professionalism, the guards of the Princely Estate were strained with the greatest security challenge the grounds had experienced in many years.

In all honesty they had every right to be on high alert, for their were some would be thieves eyeing the estate. Well… that wasn’t entirely accurate.

Being assisted out of a carriage was a beautiful young woman with short purple hair and eerily flawless skin peeking from her kimono with an inviting aura and warmness about her, accompanied by what appeared to be two bodyguards with far more than a little bloodshed staining their auras. It was quite a striking contrast for the surrounding observers. The more experienced soldiers and guards could clearly feel the apparent bodyguards were extremely dangerous but as far as they could tell, the men were simply there to escort the young lady. Some began wondering if this was to be a show of power for some yet unnamed family or if perhaps some commander was simply far too overprotective of his daughter. If it was the latter it was rather a shame because few could imagine anyone approaching the young woman with such an escort.

“Thanks again for coming Kouin, and for helping me hire your father. This isn’t exactly village sanctioned and while I have people who do this… it is a bit more treasonous a task than what I have really asked of anyone so far.”

Osu on the other hand was trying to ignore the fact of how easily people believed he was a woman and ran over the details of the plan in his head. Unlike other thieves that might be targeting the party tonight, his objective had nothing to do with the jewels, precious materials, or works of art inside the estate. Instead his target was a tomb located deep within the gardens.

“The Garden of Heroes,” Osu mumbled to himself as he and his companions approached the gates with a very real invitation for a very fake persona.

More clearly he spoke as to where only Kouin and Raiden should be able to hear him, “As the grounds of the Shogunate Palace are considered sacred, non-royal heroes of the country are sometimes given the honor of being entombed here in the Garden of Heroes. It is widely considered the greatest burial honor someone without the blood of the Shogunate can achieve. The few who have earned the right to be buried here, usually exceptional non shinobi who managed to surpass normal human boundaries, were all great historical names in their own rights, but more importantly, several are said to have had powerful artifacts that aided in their great deeds that still remain in their possessions. While I am troubled with the prospect of grave robbing, there is far too much at stake to hold on to such reservations. Not a single object of even minor power must remain in the tomb before the Tenouzans descend to ‘consecrate’ the tomb come morning as their ‘gift,’ the deceitful worms.” Osu nodded towards a very luxurious group being let in the gates with holy men and women dressed in admittedly tasteful robes and appropriately luxurious holy symbols and staves. Their guards were made up of powerful figures wearing full plate armor and wielding a variety of weapons, most typically hammers and shields, the most problematic and damning aspects of which were that they were all made with generous use of dimeritium, chakra absorption stone.

“Despicable currs… be wary, the both of you. While the ore is the same as that we use in the village to restrain a person’s use of chakra, the metal in their gear and holy symbols is an intentionally far less refined version. Plainly put, it is poisonous for chakra users to even be near, without mentioning direct contact or having it break the skin, it also severely dampens the power of jutsu though it isn’t like they are invincible. If you drop a normal bolder not held together by chakra and let gravity do all the work for instance, they will be flattened as easily as anyone, but more direct combat is a horrible chore, especially with groups of them. Some even carry firearm ammunition made of the same material and they could cut into us as easily as a hot knife through butter if they get a good shot in… If possible, on our way out I would like to kidnap one or two clerics from that group without being caught in the act, and failing that, even killing a paladin or two and collecting their gear for analysis would be satisfactory. You will be paid half again what I already promised for the Clerics and a third for the sets of Paladin equipment. Regardless, it cannot be even remotely provable that shinobi were involved with bringing harm to them. Not collecting either is preferable to revealing ourselves.”

They finally entered their place in line and soon Osu presented their invitation, identifying him as the sole heir to a household of the northern realm tasked with repelling monsters that came south from the Thunder Mountains. No one could see any problems with this claim and rather felt a mystery had been solved regarding the noble young miss and the two rather heavy duty guards. Whoever those ‘penny-pinching, thieving bastards’ were that Saeko used to get them an invitation were rather professional as it seemed one of the guards remembered hearing rumors of her family’s recently defeating a manticore while losing only about half a dozen men. Osu was almost guaranteed not to have to deal with any suitors. Monster hunting was typically shinobi work. Regular people who got mixed up in it were generally considered suicidal.

“To get to the gardens we will need to head through the building and through the main ballroom. Right now their attentions are probably focused on making sure no one comes over the walls or goes digging around the upper floors. Not to say the Garden will be completely unguarded but far less so than usual especially since the aristocracy and such like to use such places for trysts. The gardens should provide more than sufficient cover given that they even have hedge mazes, I will never quite understand intentionally installing places where intruders could hide, nor people who hide specifically in such obvious places. Towards the rear of the estate is where the entrance to the tomb is sealed, but I have already procured a key to enter. I don’t know what the layout of the tomb is beyond that but given the work it has received over the years it should extend quite a bit underground and broadly at that. As it happens though, the number of people who qualified to be buried here are a lot fewer than the designers probably expected. After we collect all the artifacts we can manage, we should hide any others we cannot bring so the Tenouzans can’t destroy or take them, and see if we have the opportunity to ambush one or two of them. Are you both prepared?”

Osu asked the last question as they approached the entrance to the ballroom.

 

[Kouin]

The carriage ride was uneventful for the most part. Osu had asked Raiden if he'd accompany him on a delicate mission that walked the line of treason quite delicately; recruiting an outside source was most likely the safest bet for the young med nin. Raiden hadn't any official ties to Kumogakure anymore, nor passed as a present day shinobi would. Though it didn't quite explain why his son decided to tag along. It's true his son had little reason to trust him after all these years, but the time was never his fault; his body went into a self preservation mode; but what is broken could be rebuilt.

They arrived at the estate in a timely manner, but now the show was about the begin. The duo were to escort the young Osu as elite guards, a simple enough task for the anbu pair, but still required a certain finesse. Luckily both were skilled in infiltration missions. The two Kaze's secured their armaments to their waists and assisted the young Chigokai from the carriage.

"Pay it no mind Mi'lady , my father and I couldn't let our precious snow flower travel to such an event alone."

The younger Kaze was dressed in a striking black suit with gold cuff-linked inlayed with precious emeralds; he opted out of the usual black tie, and went with a deep purple one to show a semblance of matching. While the other Kaze was more old fashion in his styling he was by no means underdressed; he wore midnight purple kimono with silver trim around the borders with loose fitting tabis.

The pair listened to the briefing carefully; in their line of work information was valued moreso than a life. Information was enough to save and end a life, one had to be careful how much and how little they pretended to know.

Well hopefully we can just avoid them completely, while my Son and I are capable of sword play, and while he is probably better suited at sword play than I, I doubt we can handle them enmass. Kouin's nod confirmed his suspicion; Raiden let out a short sigh, We will follow your game plan Osuteno-kun, but if things become too much we must consider an evacuation plan, but we will cross that bridge when the need arises. He reassured the young one with a gentle smile; a smile that completely didnt reflect the seriousness of the entire mission and absolutely possibility that if they were caught they'd be spending the rest of their lives in a dark jail cell, Yea but lets not think of that, ok Raiden buddy?<i></i> He was right, wasn't healthy thinking.

The pair stood behind Osu as they were posed the final question; Kouin adjusted his tie and placed his bifocals on his face, while his father tied his shoulder length hair into a ponytail.


"Yes""Yes" The two spoke in tandem as they were both sufficently prepared for the challenges that they were about to be faced with, and for the first time, Father and Son were teaming up. Oh how the time has gone by so fast for the elder Santaru.

 

[Osuteno]

Spoiler

Despite all appearances Osu was feeling rather mocked, but he needed to keep his focus as he stepped forward and servants opened the doors to the ballroom.

“The opening speech will commence shortly ojou-sama, please enjoy the refreshments and company of your fellow guests until then,” a older servant said with a rather generously measured bow. It was only to be expected though, thought Osu with a knowing smile. The father of the birthday boy was Daimyo Amakusa Ryun after all. Widely renowned as a military genius, during the civil war if things had gone a bit differently we would all be calling him Shogun. He was well known for favoring military families, and staunchly opposed to relying on shinobi. He was the first Daimyo to incorporate firearms and other newer technologies into his armies and by far the most successful in outfitting his troops and applying new military tactics. This largely had to do with it being his lands where the Tenouzan Holy City was located and his close relations with them.

It wasn’t any surprise then, when he was lead past the tables where people of his own fictional rank were sitting and found himself at a table near other military families closer to the head table, though there was still a ‘healthy’ distance.

Osu’s peripherals examined a table attached to the host table where the Tenouzan entourage was gathered with a good number of people fawning over them before picking up a glass of water from a tray of drinks presented to him.

“We should probably socialize a little to not stick out, but not so much that people actively seek us out later on in the night. Once the opening speech is done with though, we should be able to move off into other areas of the estate without suspicion.

“Remember our identities are belonging to a monster repelling army. I am probably not expected to be particularly combatant at all given my identity, but you two… we are not to be chakra users by any case for best measure… simply pretend you are holding back to demonstrate movements for academy students if you get out into a spot by anyone, and keep your distance from any Tenouzans if possible. If someone asks you religious questions simply say something like you ‘pay honor and blood debts to the ninth mountain shrine,’ or the like. Northerners respect some of the oldest gods like Raiden, but typically only actively pray to their local nature spirit, usually something like a mountain god, lake god, or a god of the earth etc, dedicated to a particular area. As for monster hunting… keep the details vague enough, trade secrets are always an acceptable excuse, and keep in mind how a large group of genin and a few chuunin would fare against whatever monsters you speak of. Losing only a half dozen to a manticore is a miraculous achievement to these people after all. Typically the number would be at least several dozen with the first volley of spikes alone. Now I think I will attempt ‘girl talk’ with that group over there until the speech. More than a few warriors have been eyeing our table as I am sure you two have noticed and are probably just waiting for me to dismiss you both to enjoy the festivities.”

At this point Osu stood up, “Be careful not to hurt the egos of any of the greater nobles, the ‘Hakurou’ Clan are only minor aristocrats when all is said and done. Still, what was the motto those forgers made for us? ‘The winter wolf fears not to sink its teeth into man nor monster, for all blood debts must be paid’ I think. Dreadfully coarse, but being pushovers won’t suit us now, nor in the future should we use these identities again.”

With that, Osu left the father and son duo behind. As he approached a small group of young women discussing something one suddenly approached him grabbing his hands.

“How is your skin so smooth?! And look how spotless it is! Have you ever been outside in your life? It is like I am touching silk!”

As Osu began to be harassed by ‘fellow young women’ over the secret of his skin care regimen and touching his skin, many miles away in Kumogakure, a housewife felt a flash of fury and completely shattered a cast iron skillet she was gripping to the great amusement of two little girls.

To the surprise of several of them, ‘Hakurou Kitiara’ wasn’t even engaged despite appearing to be around 20. She was definitely pretty enough and she would definitely be past prime marriage age soon.

Osu has an excuse though, “Ah mmmm… as the only child and a woman at that… whoever I marry has to marry into my household, and they must command our army in the hunt for monsters. Weak men and those unsuitable for command are immediately disregarded by my father. If they are not at least as strong as my guards, my father won’t deem any suitors ‘good enough to even speak my name’... it is a bit problematic to be honest, I will probably end up marrying one of my father’s captains after a few more years.”

This was a completely boring and pitiful answer to the young women around him though a story most could identify with to a degree.

“Does that mean you have actually seen monsters though?” Asked one pretending their hardest to seem uninterested in such unladylike subjects.

“... I have only seen a couple living ones from a safe distance with an army between myself and the creatures, though I have seen a number of the trophies up close.” Replied Osu after a moment of thinking of a safe answer.

The conversations eventually drifted away from him as he tried making his own daily life sound as dull as possible, simply reading most of the day and bridal training, and being surrounded by soldiers all the time. Conversations eventually shifted to local gossip, fashion trends in the capital, new engagements, upcoming parties, and other such things. After ten or so minutes the lighting began to change and it seemed the speech was about to start.

A young man with an overconfident expression, though to the surprise of Osu dressed rather tastefully in spite the rumors, stepped out into the center platform of the ballroom stairs.

“Greetings one and all. I would like to thank each of you for joining my family in celebration, but most of all I would like to thank the Shogun, may He reign eternally, for gifting us all the enjoyment of His palace and the peace and prosperity he brings to us all.” As custom he paused in his speech to allow people time to applaud and praise the name of the Shogun who of course was far too important to visit personally. Osu himself clapped in much the same fashion as the young women surrounding him, deciding mimicry would be a suitable substitute for proper manners for now.

“As you all know, on this night I have come of age, but more important than myself is the continuation of my ancient house, long has the Amakusa Clan proudly served the Shogunate and this powerful and proud nation, and long may we stand to serve both.” Another pause for a more modest applause this time, as appropriate.

With a jovial smile he followed,“I must admit I feel some disappointment that my father was not able to join in tonight’s festivities, particularly since we have his favorite wine in great stock, but I am proud to say he is far too busy working towards the betterment of the country and our own territory, with no small assistance from our friends in the Tenouzan Church. I cannot say more than that for now, but know by this time next year our great country shall experience the first of several steps to bring us to the forefront of the world!”

The applause this time was more confused and even wary. While the young man himself didn’t seem impressive to some in attendance, his father was beyond underestimating. If the young man had been allowed to say that much, it was likely not an empty or exaggerated declaration in the slightest. Osu simply narrowed his eyes slightly towards the Tenouzan group and those aristocrats immediately surrounding them that seemed to be applauding for the room at this moment.

“I don’t want to keep my guests from enjoying yourselves for much longer, so I will end this speech here. Feel free to roam the estate up through the third floor, which has a lovely collection of traditional art that you all should see, and roam about the gardens except for clearly marked off areas. Drinks will be served throughout the estate so never worry that you are too far from a glass of wine, and do be mindful of your fellow guests. Have a wonderful evening!”

A healthy applause sounded once more as Osu quietly stepped away from the group he had been standing with, and unhurriedly made his way to the doors to the gardens. “Wait a minute Hakurou-Chan,” a voice called, while not terribly loudly, rather improperly for someone attending an event like this. As he turned to look it was the young woman who first complimented him on his skin.

“Are you going to see the gardens as well Hakurou-Chan? I hear the Garden is very beautiful and if full of all sorts of foreign flowers. Let’s go see them together!”

Not having a proper reason to refuse her immediately, Osu simply nodded and said, “Please, call me Kitiara. Let’s go take a look shall we?” And began walking again, the door being opened by a servant for his convenience.

“Kitiara-Chan… ah you should call me Honoka then!” The young woman said as she stepped quickly to catch up. Soon he was making his way towards the depths of the gardens… or he would have been if it wasn’t for Honoka-Chan. She kept pulling him over to see particular flowers and chat with him about her brothers, her family’s township, and such. Eventually he just started drifting near servants carrying drinks and would encourage Honoka to have more and more wine. When this also proved ineffective Osu simply got tired of how much he was being delayed and pulled the young woman into a hedge maze. After finding a well hidden corner, he stepped face to face with her so she couldn’t see the handseals he was making and she was soon unconscious mumbling something about how they were both girls and how she needed a moment to prepare her heart. Osu picked her up and hid her in the foliage along with a few wine glasses he had kept so hopefully the young woman would simply think she got very drunk before passing out. Shame she would miss out on most of the party.

It didn’t take very long for Osu to sneak to the depths of the Garden of Heroes, slipped past the few guards and caught sight of the tomb itself. On the surface it appeared to be a modestly sized circular domed building. What no one usually liked to admit was that this structure was initially contracted to Kumogakure to build a few hundred years back. Taking out a mandate amulet of the Shogunate he had stolen from the Marquess of the Eleven Moons, Osu approached the building with the amulet raised, undoing the seals, and turning to look for his companions to enter to tomb below.

 

[Kouin]

To say the palace was extravagant would be an understatement and a mockery to the estate; though he had no time to fully take in all of the sights, the pair had a vital role to play in this ruse, and their first course of action would be to find a suitable escape route should things go south. You never expect things to go wrong, but in the even that something does its best to be prepared; those were the words the father instilled into his son's head at a fairly early age, and a philosophy he followed himself for years. The pair nodded in tandem at Osu's suggestion to socialize; they'd look less suspicious just hanging around though the pair was never the socializing type, but sacrifices had to be made somewhere.

The pair would meander around the ballroom for a moment untill they stopped with another group who they assumed were guards chattering over recent affairs and struggles in guarding a high priority target. Raiden and Kouin shared a quick glance, but said no more; they both knew how they should act. If you think any of that is difficult try defending the privilaged child from the attacks of a manticore. Raiden started off the conversation strongly enough that the guards turned their heads to the new addition of the circle, "You must be the guards of Hakurou Clan."

The two nodded, Indeed. The manticore was no easy feat to fell. I lost many good men I considered friends that day, but the outcome could've been much more severe. He slid one hand up his kimono's sleeve and produced a large, jagged fang with a simple chain looped through a hole, This was the trophy our mistress gave us, He gestured a hand towards Kouin, We were given these as a show of our sacrifices and testament to keeping the peace, and avenging our fallen comrades. He watched as the guards gawked and awed at the pair of fangs.

The opening speech began shortly before the guards could prod them further about their endeavors; the pair made sure to keep their little "snowflower' in sight. A speech can speak fathoms about a person, especially someone in a military position. The young Amakusa spoke very highly of his own father, who unfortunately wasn't here to enjoy the festivities. His eyes drifted towards the table that housed the Tenouzan Church; they just looked like heretics, if heretics had a specific look, they'd be the model example of a heretic. As the speech began the die down the ballroom provided the birthday boy a round of applause, and as any gracious guest the duo clapped as well.

After the speech concluded they spied Osu drifting towards the Garden with another noblewomen; Raiden gave his son a subtle tap on the shoulder and gestured to himself then to the Garden, and then to him towards the Tenouzan Chruch table, Keep weary of them son, they give me a bad vibe. Keep a close tab on them. Raiden drifted apart from the group and his son and began to head towards the entrance towards the Garden. At the archway he was stopped by another guard that overheard his feat over the manticore, "Is it true you only lost a dozen men?"

Raiden wasn't a man to "lie", but he was one to embellish, very heavily, it was basically lying. Raiden slowly unseathed his blade from his side, It was this very blade that felled the foul beast. I sometimes think this blade was a gift sent to me by Raiden himself; to aid me in protecting the country and bring forth a prosperous future, and to repay all debts left unpaid. The man was enamored by the obsidian katana, and why wouldn't he be? Obsidian wasn't a usual choice for an arm, mostly due to the metal was hard to obtain in large amounts and even more stubborn to work with in a forge, but thats where lightning forging comes in handy, but that wasn't a part of conversation he could relay sadly, but boy could Raiden imagine the look on his face if he did. He slid the arm back into the sheath and gave the guard a respectful nod and drifted part from him.

He closed his eyes and spoke to the mind inside him, Setsu, do you see where they went? The beast inside him took a moment to analyze the surrounding energies; just because the trio were suppressing their chakra didn't mean their chakra was untracable. He went this way, quickly now. Wasting no time, his eyes shot open and he began to make his way through the hedge maze.

Your Son looks well.

...

Now isn't the time Setsuma His foot made connection with a wine glass lying on the floor; he quietly knelt down and examined the area. Upon closer inspection he found the women Osu brought with him to the Garden, We're on the right track; and we'll talk about that later, focus on the mission at hand. He waved a hand over the area casting a visual genjutsu on the scene to mask the wine glasses and the girl hiding in the foilage. Wiping the dust and dirt off his kimono he continued on through the hedge maze until he came to the exit.

The hedge maze had a few more guards than he was initially anticipating, but that wouldn't pose much of an issue for him thankifully. He dispatched a set of quick seals, and his body began to fade from sight, and for as long as he maintained the jutsu, he just had to make sure he didn't make any suspicious sounds that would set off the guards. There before him was Osu, Seems like you had some fun on the way here. He exited the maze and took position next to the young med nin, Kouin and I agreed that it would be better for him to stay in the ballroom and keep up posted on that status of whats going on; he has a certain knack for creating suitable distractions for the occassion.

He observed the entryway further, So through here is what the Tenouzan's want to get their hands on... He ran his hand along the gate, Well no time to dilly dally now, we have a very sensitive task ahead of us now, young one. He gestured his hands towards the gate, this wasn't his mission, and he wasn't going to steal the lead from the precious "snowflower". After you.

 

[Suika]

The Garden of Heroes, known for its aesthetic splendor, was highly regarded as a landmark of nobility, respect, and honor. Many tourists strove each year to explore the depths of this historically rich place, but most were turned away due to the insignificance of their bloodline or the lack of weightiness in their coin pouches. The Garden boasted vivid and unique plantlife, gigantic monuments sculpted by the country’s finest sculptors, and stimulating art pieces scattered strategically about. Every stone was etched with a tale of glory, and each fallen warrior was quite literally put on an everlasting pedestal. Artwork of the Garden itself were held with value themselves, as many never lived to experience its beauty in person. But then again, no one really did.

The Garden of Heroes was the perfect illusion.

Carefully constructed to appeal to man’s lust for visual beauty and self-importance, not a soul questioned the true nature of the Garden. Yes, there were obvious sealed areas, but even many of those were carefully crafted distractions to steer the curious off course. Certain individuals were charged to protect the secrets of the Garden, but most have recently, and mysteriously, died off. Only one survivor remained. “I claim fealty to Tenouzan,” proclaimed the protector of the Garden. “I will lead the Holy Ones to the Key. In this world of assassins, let us reclaim a country of heroes. It is my sacred duty.”

“Perfect,” responded a smirking man in a Tenouzan robe. All was set – the Key would soon belong to the Church.

*Present Day*

As soon as illustrious Osuteno, accompanied by the mercenary named Raiden, lifted the amulet, a small quake instantly shook through the Garden of Heroes. Many at the party felt the miniature tremor, but most dismissed it as the effects of alcohol consumption. Not a public brow was raised, but those in the shadows kept their watchful eye. Following this occurrence, the tomb’s door, with the soft grinding of stone, slid open. Its open entryway was an invitation to its peculiar depths. If Osu and Raiden examined the area before they entered, it’d feel as if they were alone.

They were not.

Once the two ventured into the tomb below, they’d bear witness to a greater sight than which was displayed above ground. The tomb was expansive; torches were patterned perfectly along the walls as symbols, most likely ancient writing, were etched along its trimmings. It almost felt mystical, but this structure was definitely man-made. Along the entrance’s path was a fork that unveiled several alternate pathways. The more they explored, the more it was apparent that this tomb was, surprisingly, even larger than the Garden itself. Depending on how they decided to explore, the two would find rooms with various artifacts that were inscribed with histories contrary to those showcased above. In fact, the treasures that were in this tomb were nearly identical to those above, yet, would feel more authentic. Were the artifacts shown above replicas…?

After some time, the pair would sense that they were not alone. A small murmur here, a whisper there… who lurked in the depths of the tomb? What would Osu and Raiden find? …And what would the Tenouzan find?

“The path is open. Let us find the pieces to the Key, Holy Ones,” announced the zealous appointed protector of the Garden. The leading Tenouzan figure continued to smirk.

[OOC1: Hey, folks! Thanks for the patience. It took me longer than expected to solidify the story's concept for the Contract, but I am pretty confident now. I hope you enjoy this RP and, if any questions, feel free to PM/DM me! Also, feel free to fill in details as we go. I am the mod, but I am giving you guy's rights to have control of many parts of the environment, especially historical aspects and more. I'm all about collaborating in creativity :3]

[OOC2: And just for reference, the Tenouzan would be at the entrance well after the two decided to go in... if they did. If not, then disregard! This is my intro post and it is quite flexible (just setting the tone)]

 

[Osuteno]

Osu shook his head at the mention of his ‘fun’. “Friendly woman, it is a shame she will miss the party but that is a very small concern. Hopefully Kouin doesn’t have to cover for us too much. But yes the bodies and more importantly the equipment and most prized possessions of several ‘Heroes’ lies below us. Honestly most of it is probably rusted or worn from time itself with how long most of the bodies have been entombed here. It is hard to really say if what we and the Tenouzans are looking for even exist, but if there are ‘Artifacts’ with a capital A then we need to retrieve them first.”

The opening of the seal didn’t go as desired. Osu frowned as the ground shook and kept the amulet back into his clothing. “Well that is rather unfortunate, but I suppose this isn’t a place one is intended to enter secretly. We won’t be able to be as thorough as I would like. Hopefully that doesn’t encourage Kouin to be too much with his distraction.”

Dozens of ‘red threads’ began pouring out of his sleeves and collar as he began walking into the tomb, the strings feeling around and darting through doors and crevices, picking up and putting down works of art that Osu honestly couldn’t care less about. The real treasures of this place laid with the dead after all. “Feel free to grab some of the smaller knick knacks if you wish, it wouldn’t hurt for those that come after to think we are just typical thieves after the value of the art. It figures that the nobility were paranoid enough cheapskates to display fakes up in the gardens.”

He had to admit he was considering doing the same, but he didn’t really have anything against the current Shogun. He had other means to fund his project and if needed he would rob someone more antagonistic to his goals. At the very least he wouldn’t take well recorded and widely known works of art that the heat wouldn’t die on for years to come. At the very least if Raiden wished he had the general freedom to take them to some far off place if he wished to make a bit of money.

“It is funny how some of these useless decorations are worth more than my paychecks for life,” Osu contemplated while walking forward, his tendrils picking up a large marble statue and spinning it around before placing it back down with only a cursory glance from Osu.

Why people insisted on statues and things that took up space without function were beyond…

Osu’s footsteps stopped and he turned his body to the other side of the hall where he spotted a beautiful teapot. Purple clay and unglazed with masterful calligraphy baring the name of an ancient master of tea said to be the creator of the modern tea ceremony… instead of his tendrils Osu walked over and picked up the pot with his hands shaking slightly, feeling the simple but gorgeous design and knowing it truly was made for a master to brew with…

Osu carefully put it back down with a careful and pained breathe and marched on deeper into the tombs feeling his heart bleed slightly. He wasn’t here to rob, he was here to protect artifacts and keep them from Kumogakure’s enemies. He wasn’t here to steal for himself.

The path further in opened up to a large room with four walls and a path leading out of the middle of each one including the one they just came from. Several table type pedestals were evenly spaced in the room and several had withered skeletons resting on them. Some wore intricate heavy metal armor rusted with the ages, others more simply dressed in clothing or lighter leather armor but all showing signs of wealth and quality. Judging by the insignias and such, this room seemed to house some middling nobles that managed to achieve sufficient decoration to make it into the tomb. Of note the room lacked insignias for higher nobles and didn’t seem to possess any of the extremely rare but beyond exceptional commoners that managed to be recognized by the nation as true heroes. The writings were mostly in the common language though a few older ones were written in Vulgar, and generally confirmed his initial impression.

“A quick glance might be called for but I doubt what we are looking for will be here. It seems the greater ‘heroes’ are elsewhere, I suspect on a lower floor.” He glanced around and checked a few of the bodies trying not to disturb them and quickly gave this room up.

“If there are any magic artifacts here speak up now, the people coming later tonight probably intend to destroy you or use you to harm innocent people. No? Alright we will be moving on them.” Osu felt rather silly making the announcement to supposedly magic items that weren’t there and might not exist at all, particularly since they might not be able to communicate if they did.

Osu walked around the room translating some of the writing he found on the walls next to the doors before turning to Raiden once more. “We came from the Northern path which appeared to be named the ‘road to light’ which I assume would be a reference to it leading to the surface. The Eastern path looked like it is misspelled but it was actually a pun referring to what are basically punji pits so that one is right out. The Western path is ominously called ‘descent of the arrogant’ while the Southern path reads ‘fall of the humble.’ Both sound like they head to lower floors, but which do you think we should take? While most might assume the heroes that are wiser or have better character practice humility over arrogance, it isn’t unknown for heroes, especially the mightiest of them, to face their ends because of their arrogance in the stories.”

Osu flipped a coin over to Raiden, “If you have a preference or gut feeling about one of them, we will take that path, otherwise just call something heads or tails and see where the coin tells us to go…”

Osu returned his attention to the ‘path of light.’ “We can’t risk collapsing anything or use anything that leaves obvious evidence of chakra use and I didn’t manage to sneak anything particularly dangerous in with this kimono. Do you happen to have any ideas on how to slow down those who come through here later?”

 

[Kouin]

The rumble of the gate rising was a bit of concern; it was loud enough to potentially draw attention, but only to those who were paying attention for signs of it, aka the Tenouzan and most likely their gracious host. Though he trusted in his sons ability to stall and bide time, he wasn't omnipotent, but may Raiden guide his path. We shouldn't allow a minor tremor to halt our movements; we've already condemned ourselves to a dark prison cell if caught, no use making it easy for them to catch us. Raiden pushed forward and entered through the gate.

Priceless knick-knacks lined the initial walls of the cavern, why someone would keep such intricate pieces of artwork down below rather than showing off their extravagance. It really showed how much greed lied in the hearts of men. Though none of that mattered to him, he had thrown the life of caring about stuff like that to the wayside years ago. Though seeing the extent a child a going through to actualize his own plans brought an old feeling to his heart; was it latent pride, or was it simply nostalgia? Whatever it was, he knew it was a feeling he hadn't felt in a very long time.

I haven't cared for a paycheck in many years, I don't forsee me caring today either.

Kouin could feel a slight tremor rumble under his feet; his eyes glances around the room quickly to guage if hysteria was about to insue, but everyone seemed to absorbed by the festivites to care, but the regular patrons weren't who he was truly concerned about. It was the host and the Tenouzan who he was concerned with; they knew potentially what to look out for if something were to arise, but if anything they were playing the situation off nonchalantly, but Kouin was one to air on the side of caution and began to slowly move through the crowd to be in closer proximity to the heathens.

He would make a 'post' at another table that some guards were seated at and kept his hearing attuned towards them, and now he waits.


The pair continued down the hall passing more unmagical artifacts of infinite power until the hall opened up into a larger room with four walls. The classic crossroad was a common deterent for thieves and tresspassers; it was more likely then naught that they would get lost, and either die in the tunnels or be captured well before they could stumble upon what they were looking for, but unfortunately for them Raiden wasn't planning on dying here today, he had other plans with destiny that required him to be alive.

He would give Osu an intrigued side eye, Artifacts of Divine Power, the descendant of the Sky God beckons to thee, hear my name and call back; for I Raiden wish to know where thou lie. Raiden probably felt even more ridiculous than Osu did, but who knew, maybe they'd only respond to someone born from a god-like lineage. When nothing called back he simply looked at Osu and shrugged, Was worth a shot.

Raiden caught the coin in between his middle and index finger and clutched it into his hand. Raiden closely examined all the paths; he and Osu both thought that the "Path to Light" was simply a metaphor to getting back to the surface, so that eliminated that path. Osu then eliminated the eastern path as being a death trap. That only left the west and the south. Back in my day, the arrogant fell because they allowed power to consume them, and eventually went mad with power. The humble's strength lied with who they were allied with.

Raiden walked to the entrance to the "Descent of the Arrogant", The Humble were strength of conjoined forces, and usually headed by a tactical head, while the arrogant relied on their own strength to dominate others around them. My gut instinct tells me we want the path of the arrogant. He wasn't truly sure of his deduction though, he has been out of the world for quite some time, but Osu was trusting him at the moment, and when all else fails, everyone trusts in their instincts.

Raiden placed two fingers on his forehead, and placed his other hand on top of Osu's head; he created a link between the two, showing him the demon within him, and then quickly cut the connection off. I have a few tricks up my sleeve that I can use to dominate the will's of others. And if all else fails... His right hand grabbed hold of the hilt of his sword, I always have the trusty steel by my side.

The mission they were on wasn't exactly one they could lounge around on, Alas we have no time to idle, shall we trust my judgment and press forth down the descent of the arrogant? Or shall we see how the humble fell?

 

[Suika]

"Enchanting. Calculating." muttered the artifact as he observed the fair woman call out for him. As the feminine figure collaborated with who he assumed was her body guard, he continued his assessment. "Titillating. Extraterrestrial." Her elegance was beyond anything he had ever encountered. As one who danced with the stars, he was truly taken from this world into another plane by her mere presence. Who was she? Did she long for him? Her aura chilled him, but her domineering tone made his metal hot. The key continued to stalk observe the two as they decided on their next path.

Descent of the Arrogant? They were far better off any other route, he thought. Even the punji pits of the East were more preferred than the resting home of his repugnant brother. Darkness loathed the shining of a star, and the star knew its place in the darkness. And just like a celestial mass of burning energy, the key decided to skyrocket into his immediate appearance. The pure heart of the maiden's was his as he was her wish. 'Swish!' Into her gown he slipped. It was time to unlock her gates.

MEANWHILE....

The arched gatekeeper led the holy men of the Tenouzan toward the split pathways. Eyeing various artifacts that adorned the walls, a lower ranked clergyman sneered with avarice. "Such treasures would benefit the Church,"</B><i></i> he suggested as he did not bother hiding his greed. His superior, a priest who towered over him in both stature and rank, scoffed at his remark. <B>"Turn thine eye, for the treasures of this world will sink ye into oblivion." The reprimand appeared subtle, but the priest radiated a deathly aura. Although holy, the manifestation of untapped wrath coated his body. The other men lowered their head in the weight of his presence.

"Here, here, Holy Ones! The keys rest in four roads, and with them a trial. The simplest of these is the Fall of the Humble. Shall we proceed?" With an agreed nod from their head priest, the Tenouzan ventured into a path contrary from the shinobi duo. What would they find?

BACK TO OUR... HEROES?

Blazing across the air was a small key, about ten centimeters in length. This key was a brilliant shade of azure with ivory stars imprinted on its stem. Its handle resembled a pair of wings that connected into a small, golden star. Its head was curved and was also adorned with a star in its half-circle. Although miniature, the key was crafted expertly and meticulously. Strangely, and as mentioned, it flew into Osuteno's top. The overconfident key began to make his way down to fulfill his convoluted purpose. Would Osu notice?

As Raiden and Osu traveled into the Descent of the Arrogant, the lighting within the room grew dim with each step. Even the steps of their feet, although light from their shinobi training, grew completely mute. It wouldn't be long until the tunnel was pitch black. Also, the tunnel curved into downward slope. The path they took was literal as they descended into lower levels of the underground Garden. Where were they heading? If Raiden and Osu attempted to light their path either naturally or with chakra, the light would immediately and magically snuff out. The darkness of this path resisted the light of man, unfortunately. They would also feel an air of hostility radiate through the tunnel. Meanwhile, the tiny trinket squiggled in Osuteno's garments, hoping he was unnoticed or caught. If Osu reached for the key, he would find immediate resistance.

"Get out..." echoed a voice down the tunnel. "Flee, children of light."

 

[Osuteno]

Osu merely smiled in shared embarrassment as Raiden made his own declaration to their surroundings. “I am unsure if stating certain lineages would help or hinder in this case, rather I am quite sure mine is more likely to earn me a knife in the back than goodwill.”

It was only partly a joke. Osu merely nodded and started down the path shortly after Raiden mentioned his gut feeling. “Then I shall continue to rely on your services if it comes to that, though I wish I had some form of little trap to leave behind. But that would take time even if I did. No need to question of fret over which way, your gut feeling is enough to act on for now.” Osu wasn’t terribly surprised by the demon, he had seen a number of them before in his associations with Jinchuuriki, but it was definitely something to keep in mind considering their foes.

?!! “Hmm?” Osu stopped moving forward and suddenly looked behind himself with a for the source of the sudden invasion of his personal space but only found Raiden. “... Odd…” Osu hmmm’d to himself, before turning back and carrying on. He had the oddest suspicion that he was being observed, and for a moment he thought he had felt the rush of air at his neck where the top of his collar was.

“It is oddly fitting though now that I think about it,” Osu began to speak suddenly a minute or two into their journey down the path. “That our first path is that of arrogance, I mean. Those Tenouzan fellows believe that humanity’s first sin was arrogance. It was from the latter part of their creation myth. What was the passage...
‘Thus the Lord spoke and all of creation came forth to kneel, letting man gaze upon all they were interested to lead and guide.

“My Children,” spoketh the Lord, “Lay thine sight upon thy charge, for I gift this world to you to tend in my absence. From the smallest pebble, to the greatest leviathan, all has its place, you shall never lack.”

But these new children of the Lord, humanity, had witnessed creation, and found themselves small, humbled. Had humanity left it be, it would have been their first virtue. But curiosity led some to ask if there was some way they could further emulate the Lord and his might.

Amused by the first question, the Lord decided to humor humanity. “Everything is perfect as it is, but there is a way.” The lord presented a farming tool he had made to allow humanity to tend the land and plants. “This object was made to dig the land so you may grow food to provide sustenance for yourselves and your beasts of burden. If you wish to gain a bit of my power, take it and spill my blood, and drink of it. But know that power and necessity are tightly bound. By gaining power this perfect world will change to make that power necessary. The beasts will not easily yield, the seasons will change, food will become a necessity instead of a pleasure. The power you take of me will cause this world to test you, for you will no longer be the emissaries of my power, but those who seek to master it.”

Humanity having been gifted knowledge by the Lord, understood that such an action would cause the Lord pain, and most buried the thought, but two stepped forth. The eldest daughter and youngest son of humanity, stood before the lord and the eldest daughter took the tool from the hand of the Lord.

“With such power we can make the world kneel and bend to us, it is a challenge we can master,” spoke the eldest daughter.

“With such power we can add to creation and change it to suit us. The world will kneel, or it will be knelt,” spoke the youngest son.

The Lord frowned, but did not discourage them. “I have gifted you choice, and it is yours to make. But know that your choice affects all, not only yourselves.” Thus the Lord stretched his arms wide, palms facing the sky, as if welcoming humanity.

And lo, the eldest daughter stepped forth, and stabbed the heart of the Lord.

In arrogance, humanity believed it could fight a world.

In arrogance, humanity thought it could improve upon the perfection of the Lord.

In arrogance, humanity brought upon its own anguish.

Creation itself recoiled in harm, the boundaries of the world weakened and a bloody shadow from a realm beyond seeped into the world. The Lord gazed coldly upon it, causing the shadow fright, but the Lord did not intervene, for he had already gifted this world to humanity, and it was a consequence they chose.

Seeing the Lord had no intention to stop it, the shadow rejoiced and sought the eldest daughter who was drinking of the Lord’s blood.

“Why stop here?” The shadow asked of her. “The Radiant One is willing to let you drink of his power and you drink so little?” But while arrogant the eldest daughter had not yet felt the sin of greed on her heart.

“I must share with my brother, for he too wishes to challenge this world with me.” The eldest daughter told the bloody shadow, instinctively if not knowingly wary of its vile taint, knowing it was not part of Creation.

The shadow could not understand the bond of family, and thus could not reply to this idea. But it did understand opportunity and carefully came closer under the increasingly cold gaze of the Lord.

“Then spill more blood and share with me as well. In this world newly cursed with consequence, the knowledge of death should have come to you. If you share the blood of the Radiant One with me, I shall offer you and all your kin who covenant with me protection from the consequence of death.” The shadow ceased to speak as it felt the hatred of the Lord and froze, fearing its own destruction.

But the eldest daughter was oblivious to this, and eagerly nodded, causing the hatred the Lord felt to retreat to disappointment and heartache, seeing his favored creation so willing to destroy itself and to betray him. As the eldest daughter withdrew the tool and stabbed the Lord again, the Lord shed tears, not of pain, but of sorrow. The youngest son began collecting blood from the first wound in his hands while the eldest daughter collected blood from the second wound to gift to the shadow.

The rest of their brethren watched in shocked horror at the sight, and creation itself grew angry and bitter as the Lord was harmed and shed tears. The sky itself, the broadest entity of creation, began to weep at the sight of the Lord’s tears, birthing the first storm.

The first storm became the incarnation of Creation’s rage and began gathering all its night to strike down the one who harmed the Lord, not once, but twice. Winds howled as the first storm gathered the entirety of its might, causing the youngest son the realize his sister’s danger as she began sharing the Lord’s blood with the shadow.

The storm, using the entirety of its might, launched a bolt of lightning as heavy as the world itself at the eldest daughter. The Lord watched silently in pained and torn emotion as Creation sought to kill his precious eldest daughter of humanity in order to avenge his pain.

Hands filled with the blood of the Lord, the youngest son had not yet drunk of it, and rushed forward to catch the bolt in his hands before it could strike his sister. The bolt should have destroyed the youngest son, as he had yet to drink in the power of the Lord, but his hands covered in the pure blood were allowed to wrestle the bolt from the grip of the storm. The Lord’s blood was scattered across Creation, but the majority of its power was used as a conduit for the youngest son to make the power of the bolt his own.

The Lord was overcome with relief as he had not had to witness the murder of one of his precious children, but was returned to grief as the arrogant pair continued to act.

Once again oblivious to her surroundings, the eldest daughter had only perception of the blood and power before her. She saw the shadow’s desire and asked of it if it had other power it could trade for the taste of the Lord’s blood.

The shadow was more than willing to make such a trade, and showed the eldest daughter the tainted secrets of manipulating blood, particularly that of her brethren, her eyes becoming tainted bloody orbs from what she saw and her senses further attuned to a growing need to command the blood of those around her, the sound of hearts seemingly a call for her to dominate them.

Meanwhile the youngest son gazed upon the weakened state of the first storm, and decided to respond wrath with wrath. Using the sheer force that the Lord’s Blood and the Lightning Bolt has given him, the youngest son inflicted a fate worse than death upon the First Storm. He tore its very sense of self and reasoning from it, so as to punish it for raising its might against his kin. The storm broke into many thousands of smaller storms and began to scatter across the world as mindless entities made purely of wrath, inflicting senseless destruction wherever they roam. As his sister began dominating the life around her, he began dominating the sky above. She wanting control, and he wanting power.

The Lord gazed upon them and sighed, and witnessed the rest of their brethren cowering or praising the pair. Only One, the eldest and wisest Son, did neither. The eldest Son gazed upon His brethren, unsure in His heart of what He should do.

And so He approached the Lord, asking, “Creator, might I ask for a gift as well? I do not wish for your power, merely a tool to help us serve as the caretakers of this world.”

The Lord said nothing, and instead gazed towards the bloody shadow that was undergoing great change. It now stood in the shape of a man, except it stood heads above humanity, and obviously stood as a being foreign to this world, for the light did not give it color. The bloody shadow was now appeared as a monochrome man, the only color to him being the blood that flowed in his veins.

The monochrome man felt the gaze of the Lord, but had realized that he would be allowed to do as he pleased, unless perhaps if he took a direct hand against these children of the Lord. The monochrome man gave a deep but mocking bow and spoke, “Do not fear, oh Radiant One, for I will never raise my hand to harm your children without their consent. I will willingly share my own knowledge with them should they ask and trade for it.”

The Lord knew what this creature of darkness meant, and knew that these children would have members who fell for this temptation. He gazed upon Creation, seeing many plants and animals had changed from being touched by his blood, and he saw that man was weak.

Placing a hand on the shoulder of the Eldest Son, the Lord said, “I shall grant you the tool you ask, and the knowledge to make more. But it too comes at a cost, for that is the balance inherent of this once perfect world. You must become a warrior to protect the lives of those under you, and lead them against the many threats of this world, even if those threats were once your own kin. In exchange for this tool you will be cursed with the knowledge of law, order, and justice and will need to use it. You will need to guide and protect, but also command, those who are not as strong or wise. You and your descendents will be cursed by the responsibilities of a lord. It is a heavy cost, but one that is now necessity in this once perfect world.”

The Eldest Son, being wise above all of the Lord’s children, trembled at the cost, knowing how heavy his shoulders and those of his descendants would weigh, but spoke firmly, “I will humbly accept this charge.”

The world shook as the sky was disturbed once again. What seemed to be mountains fell from the sky, made of an otherworldly metal, crashing deep into the world, causing the land to drop and rise where they fell. The landscape now covered by many mountains, and seemingly distances became greater. The Eldest Daughter, Youngest Son, and the monochrome man were no longer to be seen, hidden by great distance and the mountains in between.

Where the Lord and the rest of humanity stood, the largest of these sky mountains fell, but due to the presence of the Lord, it sank gently into the ground beneath their feet. The Lord took a bit of the metal in hand and a beautiful hammer was forged from it and spoke to the Eldest Son, “My final gifts to you my son, will be this holy land, knowledge of the forge, this hammer so you might both build and defend yourselves… and time to prepare. I feel as if I have failed you my children.”

At these words the Eldest Son, hammer in hand, knelt, and the rest of humanity followed, their bodies trembling from witnessing their Creator’s grief.

“Please do not say so,” the Eldest Son said with tears forming in his eyes. “We are the ones who failed you and ourselves. You made me wiser than all others yet I merely stood shocked as my First Sister and Final Brother acted. I did not step forward to guide them from their actions as you intended of me from Creation, it is I who failed above all others. But I shall do so no longer. I will build a home and shelter for my people, I will protect them from this great world, and I will find my lost brethren who I have failed, and bring them back to the Light.”

With this oath, the Eldest Son knelt a man, and rose a king. For the first time the Lord truly smiled, as he sense his Favored Son’s convictions, and saw this world that was once perfect had hope.’

That is the end of their first book. Quite a few rather spot on references in there which makes me believe their religion isn’t as old as they make it out to be. It is also very local to Lightning Country. The problematic part would be how knowledgeable they already were at that point concerning particular things which suggests there is some truth to the fiction… Starting to get rather dark isn’t it?”

As they progressed further through, Osu began relying on sight less and less as his blood vessels reached further and further out like tiny fingertips everywhere thinner than a strand of hair. It was times like these that he had to sigh a bit though. It would be one thing if there was a human or other living thing nearby. If there were a beating heart and blood flowing through veins he could locate it quite easily and have a better understanding of his surroundings. Right now he was a simply a blind man, albeit one with many outstretched fingertips as it were.

Osu felt something brush against him again but this time from within his clothes. Before he could react though, he felt hostility surrounding them and the many tendril like blood vessels became many sharp points, as if an army of spears had been gathered.

When he heard the voice tell them to leave however, he simply smiled and retracted his tendrils, though his hand was still fishing around in his clothes trying to snatch whatever was in them, tendrils seeping from his skin trying to snatch whatever the thing was.

“There is no heartbeat to this voice I can sense,” Osu said quietly to Raiden and with some excitement. There was something here after all and it wasn’t just some tall tale.

“I fear you have us mistaken for the other fellows,” Osu called out. “They are the children of the eight pointed star. We are shinobi, children of the shadows as many say. We have come to rescue the artifacts of this tomb from almost sure destruction or use as tools to subjugate and conquer the nation they were once used to protect. I will not lie and say we wouldn’t like to use their power ourselves to defend this land but if they are conscious and wish not to be used, I am willing to hide them elsewhere as they wish so long as they will not serve our enemies. But I cannot willingly leave any to fall into the hands of the Tenouzans.”