Iwagakure Gate (North)

They held down the fort for long enough, and it was apparent that no threats followed. Gin relieved himself of his post not long after Kanna's quick check-in. Satomi had long left the village, too. Gin assumed he was requested back by the head council. Gin would first deactivate the trap he had set up before starting the journey back. Part of him was eager to return to the village. It appeared living wealthy has spoiled him to some degree.

[Exit -> Lower Steppes]

After a few hours from their departure Gin and his company found themselves losing altitude as they descended towards ground level. They got a good glimpse of all of Iwagakure from above. It was certainly inferior to its former glory having fallen into disarray after the Tsuchikage's death. It stabilized after some time, but never developed back to its previous status nor did it have plans to become something greater. Instead it remained a backwater stronghold until Konoha came along and claimed it by force. It was an assault Gin was fortunate enough to be apart of, which allowed him to later become the ANBU Captain he was today. The man was lost in his own thoughts as he stared idol at the back of the falcon's neck in a trance. It's amazing how recent this felt. Only a few month since I worked with Satomi and Kanna to take this village. In that time, Satomi was promoted to Hokage before 'disappearing' and Kanna practically retired after settling down with Yui...

The falcon would begin to bat its wings as they were only a few meters from touchdown taking on a vertical descent. This snapped him out of his trance as his time to daydream was over. Though he could not help but relish in the "good ole days" because Konoha had to deal with the assassination of Lord Satomi. Kanna is quite a woman. Tall, fair, and feminine she is, with an aloof demeanor mistaken as bitter cold. Of course my failure to compete with her academically at the time was enough motivation to hold back any of my advances. But my lack of confidence was outed by that young Iwagakure girl. I'm not man to sulk over spilled tea, but I wonder how my life would differ if I had taken initiative. The ANBU squad already disembarked the falcon as Gin wrapped up his thoughts before hopping off the beast himself. Once Konami had joined them he would dispel his summoning letting Big Bird rest up after his long journey.

"Here we are: Iwagakure. Our first order of business is to establish stable communication between Konoha and Iwagakure. Once that's done I can get Iwagakure to touch up on security before we scout the countryside for any suspicious activity. Konami, if you would like to accompany me to the Administration building feel free to. Otherwise you may stay at the gates with my squad. This shouldn't take too long." Gin would give Konami a choice to reply. Regardless of whether she chose to follow or stay he would enter the front gates after getting a nod from security. Certainly very lax in terms of security, but he gave Iwagakure the upper hand in them already knowing who he was and who accompanied him. He would travel to the Administrative sector of the village using common sense and past experienced to help find it.

[Enter Iwagakure]

Konami disembarked from the bird along with the other ANBU. She had noticed how Gin seemed to be focusing on the mission in front of them, either that or he was in some kind of meditative state. He gave her the choice of staying at the gates or accompanying him to the Administrative Building. Konami figured there might be more to learn from the young man if she went with. She could feel Toonami sobering up inside her so perhaps it would be best not to foul up by leaving her alone with these ANBU.

"I'll come with"

She said as she followed Gin to his destination.

As Gin and Konami entered the village the three ANBU remained outside the gates of Iwagakure. They remained vigilant in their post and that proactiveness paid off. Approaching the gates was a female, slender with wavy dark hair. She had a nonchalant approach taking a rather direct route as if she was familiar with the village's location already. They were all familiar with the approaching woman to the point where one called her out by name. "Akeno Tatsuda? What the Hell are you doing here? Last we heard you were kidnapped, though you don't look much like a damsel in distress from what I can tell." The ANBU's voice was direct and almost hostile. There was not much room for excuse. Two years ago Satomi and Akeno were sent on a mission to Kirigakure to secure a trade deal. Unfortunately Akeno was kidnapped during a confrontation at the village gates, reported directly by Satomi. Two years later Konoha was under the impression Akeno was deemed killed by the hands of the Society. It wasn't until today that theory was proven false. Akeno was fine roaming the Land of Earth freely. Not imprisoned by the Society her status was immediately presumed as defection. That crime alone was a felony and warranted detention.

"We will make sure you make it back to Konoha. I'm sure they're eager to know you've been safe all these years." Said the same ANBu as he stepped forward from the group reaching into his hip pouch grabbing a spool of steel ninja wire. The trio of ANBU stood five meters from the Lava Girl. The two other ANBU members grabbed the Chokuto they wore on their backs and followed the front man a meter behind him on either side. The front man would make his way behind Akeno and attempt to bind her hands tightly in the wire. The two ANBU remained in front of Akeno two meters apart from each other and a meter from Akeno herself, which was perfect striking range. Any sign of aggression would be met with a swift stroke of their sword.

A-class NPC:

”It truly is a shame that such a place will fall to such hands… Oh well, time to clean house.” Akeno muttered to herself as she walked along the route towards Iwagakure. Where the gates begin to loom over her at the horizon. Once she was close enough roughly 50 meters away Akeno spotted a trio of guards. All three of them were armed and garbed in Konoha uniforms. They appear to have noticed her as well, but since she is virtually the only living thing in the horizon that was to be expected. Besides Akeno preferred for a more direct approach. Given her years of experience and her track record it wouldn’t surprise her that these guards will detain her for questioning. Perhaps in the long run Akeno could slip back into their ranks once more, but that was assuming that Honiko would allow her to live long enough.

Akeno wears the flak jacket bestowed upon her when she first worked for Konoha, and her necklace of wooden talisman takes on the appearance of a phoenix around her neck. Her choice of attire is mostly grey and brown given years of survival as she made do whatever piece of clothing she could find at the time. However her utility belt along with her bag remains the same albeit in a worn condition. Wrapped around her waist is a silk sash that is faded red that might as well be pink with the Tatsuda’s clan symbol. It has been torn in the edges and patched together since her encounter with Shin’s Kraken puppet.

From fifty meters out, Akeno formed a single hand seal as she molds heavy amounts of chakra within her bosom. This hand seal, of course, was the Horse seal as this would no doubt alarm the trio of guards. However lest they retreat into their gates in time, Akeno unleashes a sea of devastating flame that threatens to wash over the trio of guards at high speed. Aiming to incinerate them so that the guards wouldn’t have to suffer from the burns that much, and slam against the gates if they’re closed along with the surrounding walls. Stretching 250 meters wide in fact as it attempts to reduce the very stone itself into ash from the villages walls. This may threaten to overpenetrate given the sheer range of it, but Akeno will dismiss the flames after it destroys the first 50 or so meters within the village. As this will be her attempt to eliminate these loyal men and who knows how many more were stationed at these walls and beyond.

Used Fire Release: Great Fire Annihilation (-15 (Affinity))
Stamina: 145/160

Akeno acted highly aggressive from the start of it not interested in any dialogue. She spoke of disgrace towards Iwagakure's ownership, having fallen into Konoha's hands. To the ANBU's surprise they were shocked to see Akeno being a fledged loyalist to Iwagakure despite Konoha's generosity in taking the refugees. But given their line of work they've encountered many people ridden with strong emotions and attachments to dead ideas. They had a sharp eye on the woman, and just as they began their steady approach from fifty meters she would respond with aggression. Her hands shot up which triggered the guards to go into full attack mode. The ANBU who was in the front and wielding the ninja wire retreated back as he shouted. "Close the gates!" The call was heard as a gate keeper from the wall's observatory slammed their palms on the ground. The actual gates are two massive slabs of earth which are operated by Earth users. They'd close shut side-to-side preventing anyone from entering or leaving in any conventional manner.

The two other ANBU pursued Akeno from both sides, one at her left and the other at her right. They'd run full speed after she telegraphed her hand sign. They'd reach her and be within striking range just before she could expel her fire. Akeno had a choice of striking one or the other, but that inherently left herself exposed. Both would attempt to strike Akeno with their Chokuto, drawing it from their scabbard and striking diagonally. They encased their blades in Wind release chakra flow to drastically increase their cutting potential allowing them to effortlessly slice through the Kunoichi like butter.

ANBU #1:

ANBU #2:

ANBU #3:

Well to say that the guards quickly took action was to no surprise as Akeno expected as much. Still distance is her ally, and while the Anbu moved incredibly fast as she formed the hand seal. Akeno can move just as fast as she proves this by moving back at the same pace 50 meters back as she exhales the giant tsunami of flames that will continue to consume both of the anbu guards. Inevitably the third anbu, lest he retreats behind the safety of the walls, will also be consumed by the raging fire. Unfortunately even if the men took shelter within the city walls. The sheer firepower behind this technique is enough to turn buildings of stone to ash or at the very least the structure will be knocked down and consume everything beyond it 50 meters in hellfire.

It was just pure misfortune that the guards had to deal with her, and with the nearby area scorched black with grey specks of ash fluttering through the air. Thick black smoke will surely begin to rise up as buildings burn intensely as screams of agony and panic can be heard from the village overall. A couple hundred of meters worth of walls, if it stretches that far, destroyed and licked with lingering flames as fragments of bone litters the scorched black streets amongst the ashes that rains upon Iwagakure. From there Akeno will begin her attempt to enter her once beloved village.

[Attempting to eliminate the Guards]

Stats:

[48hr skip]

With the scattered ash being all that remains of the anbu and the gates reduced to rubble along with anyone daring to raise a wall of earth would more than likely be caught in the storm of fire. Akeno did felt a bit of sympathy towards these men as they carried out their tasks as any loyal one would do. With those being taken care of, Akeno would begin to make her entry into Iwagakure itself. Where she will begin assaulting the village and taking claim of it by force unless someone stops her.

Stamina: 170/185

[Assaulting Iwagakure]

Raijin arrived on scene to the battered gates of Iwagakure. He could only imagine the battle that took place here. But the city was still standing but the gates were no more. Raijin had left Balerion far away, the sight of him would be troubling so he had made his way on foot, sporting his robe and clothing from the society used to blend in, he had cloth over his face. He wasn't that well known in the world but it didn't hurt. Plus he was tight with the Iwagakure ninja, he had assisted them before. He walked into village unperturbed.

[Enter Kumogakure]

Konami rushed to the gates after she heard the explosion. When she arrived, she saw scattered bodies everywhere. The charred remains of many loyal Konoha shinobi had been left to rot right outside the village.

Damn that's one helluva Barbecue! Toonami thought as she pushed her head out of her sister's back. The younger twin scanned the area behind and around them. This way they'd have a complete view of everything in the area.

The elder twin scanned the area in front of them and saw none other than Akeno Tatsuda. The woman had a triumphant character to her walk and Konami could tell right away that something was a bit off. The Konoha-Nin did not appear angry, upset, or engaged with the perpetrator of this attack. Instead, she looked as though she was the perpetrator. The gates were totally destroyed, meaning that all that stood in between Akeno and the village, was the pair of former Kiri-Nin.

Konami walked to block off Akeno's path so that she could not enter Iwagakure. Toonami swiveled her head around so that it rested on her sister's shoulder, facing their opponent. She had sobered up some and was eager to split someone's wig. None of this made any sense even for her. Based on what Konami had told her and what she had seen during Shin's attack on Kirigakure, Akeno was a loyal Leaf Nin. Konami recalled however that Shin had made off with Akeno after the battle and it was possible the person before them now was not the same Akeno that they knew. Despite only knowing her for a short period of time consisting only of negotiations and combat, Konami saw Akeno as a respectable shinobi. She assumed that the woman was under some sort of mind control or duress. That was the only reason as to why she would turn against her village. Well, that wasn't quite true. There could be other reasons.

"Akeno. What are you doing?"

It has been quite some time since Akeno last saw the blonde Mizukage, or rather former Mizukage now albeit Akeno is unaware of that. So least to say Akeno was surprised, but she actually had a smile on her face like this was a good thing.

Perfect… Akeno Tatsuda thought to herself as the twins proceeded to block her path into Iwagakure. So the Phoenix gathered that the alliance is alive and well or at least that is what it appears. Konami asked what she was doing, and here Akeno thought it was obvious as to what she was doing.

”Oh just the usual really. Taking over the village, take care of pesky guards, you get the gist I'm sure. But this is actually perfect…” Akeno forms half of the tiger seal with one hand as she conjures a shadow clone. Strangely she doesn't appear to show aggression towards the Twins as the clone reaches into Akeno's bag to retrieve a couple of blank scrolls, an ink pen, and a small pot of ink. Then the clone will walk off away from the village where she will sit down on the ground and pops the cork off from the pot. Lightly dipping the pen into the ink, the clone begins to write… something.

”Now then as much as I love to chat and offer refreshments I'm afraid that I'm far behind schedule. So I suggest either you run or surrender. Of course you could resist, but I wouldn't recommend it.” Akeno spoke as her eyes shimmered from the blazing fire as it appears they were made from molten gold. With the black smoke it would appear that they have a dim glow that stares at the twins. Akeno officially stands at 30 meters away from them, but either way she actually does not plan on hurting the twins. At least not too badly.

Used Shadow Clone
Analyzing the Twins ½ Turns.

Stamina: 170/185

Konami and Toonami turned their heads to look at each other after Akeno finished speaking. The arrogance of the former Konoha Nin was nothing short of astounding.

"Let's G-Check this bitch, Kon"
"Let's."

Toonami fully separated from her sister's body and began walking towards Akeno. The exceedingly tall woman started closing the distance with a brisk walk. After she crossed ten meters, she broke into a fierce run at her top speed. Toonami initiated the Chakra Enhanced Fasciculation Technique. The sudden surge of chakra into her muscles and nerves increased her speed, allowing her to break into a superhuman sprint. The rings on her fingers, interlocked and formed a pair of purple and black brass knuckles. In mere moments, she'd cross the distance between the two of them and deliver a punishing roundhouse punch. The blow packed enough force to knock Akeno unconscious.

Meanwhile, Konami formed a series of seals. She would watch to see how Akeno reacted to her younger sister before unleashing any techniques.

Used:
Anabolic Tetrahygeon Testosterone Therapy Technique
Look Alive! - The Twins have become rather adept at Ijutsu due to all the scrapes they've been in. Ijutsu costs one rank less.



175/185

Strength: D
Constitution: B+
Stamina: B
Speed: C -> (Anabolic Tetrahygeon Testosterone Therapy Technique)-> B
Coordination: C -> (Anabolic Tetrahygeon Testosterone Therapy Technique) -> C++
Intelligence: C
Perception: C

A bit disappointed more so on their choice of words than their actions. Then again Akeno hasn't met Toonami before except for that brief exchange back at Kirigakure when they were fighting off Shin's army of puppets. As Toonami stepped out of her sister's body, which was kind of creepy to witness, Akeno began to weave three hand seals as she has been wanting to use this technique ever since she learned it. The fiery chakra of earth mixed into her body shape into a ball of pure energy in a liquid state. While Toonami was focused on walking in a dramatic way Akeno pours her molten chakra through her feet and into the ground which appears like many threads of gold starts to web around her feet.

”You want me? Gonna have to catch me first.” If Toonami proceeds to continue her charge be it from the 10 meter Mark or from further distance. The ground in front of Akeno and seemingly everywhere around her and the Twins heatwaves rise up. Temperature rises, and the earth itself gives off a dull orange glow. Akeno's hands would drop to her side before leaping back as Toonami's fist came swinging. All Akeno had to do was move just out her arm's reach just before the very spot Toonami stands under gives off intense heat as the ground glows bright gold before a geyser of magma bursts skyward in hopes of catching Toonami. This, being pure lava, will deal some severe burns on the arrogant twin. As the geyser only takes up a meter radius, Akeno's leap takes her at four meters from Toonami as tiny tears of liquid fire rains down for an additional 2 meters outside of the radius. Albeit slower than the initial burst, it'll still potentially deal severe burns and incinerate any form of clothing less it is enchanted to ward of katon or doton chakra.

Should Toonami manage to evade the geyser Akeno would honestly be impressed by her nimble display, and of course Akeno will do her best to say out of Toonami's reach given that Akeno naturally moves at the same speed as Toonami does. After the geyser is done it reveals a small 3 meter pool of seething lava, and from this pool as Akeno's arms will move like she is trying to parry Toonami's strikes. In reality however as Konami will realize if she hasn't by now that a tendril of liquid fire emerges from the pool and threatens to lash out at Toonami. If it connects instead of outright burning albeit uncomfortable heat coming from the tendril. It hardens into a thick shell of volcanic rock while having multiple joints similar to a snake. It'll proceed to drag Toonami in a contest of strength at C tier speed towards the pool of magma. Of course Akeno does hope that Toonami evades for it'll only lead to more pain for the blue haired twin.

[Analyzed the Twins 2/2 turns]

Akeno's Stuff:

Toonami was walking, or rather running, right into a death trap. Just as she began to build physical moment Akeno planned to saturate the area around her with deadly lava. Fortunately, the God that Toonami did not believe in was looking out for her on that day. He blessed her legs and before she reached Akeno she sped up dramatically. Toonami zoomed towards her opponent with a fury that she had never known. Toonami deviated her path to the side, rather than coming straight at Akeno. The world around her became a blur and she only had the sense to outstretch her arm to clothesline Akeno with more speed than the girl could hope to avoid on her own power. The extra speed boost would allow Toonami to clear the field before the geyser erupted given that the initial blast was timed to take her out while she was moving at a slower pace. If the maneuver was successful, then Akeno would get her windpipe crushed by the force of the strike and Toonami would keep running until she cleared the field of lava, ending up well over 15 meters from it. She completed her own set of seals. Akeno was now between both twins who were each holding a seal of their own.



Toonami - 172/185
Used:
Anabolic Tetrahygeon Testosterone Therapy Technique
Look Alive! - The Twins have become rather adept at Ijutsu due to all the scrapes they've been in. Ijutsu costs one rank less.
1 Physical Point

Strength: D
Constitution: B+
Stamina: B
Speed: C -> (Anabolic Tetrahygeon Testosterone Therapy Technique)-> B (Physical Point) -> S
Coordination: C -> (Anabolic Tetrahygeon Testosterone Therapy Technique) -> C++
Intelligence: C
Perception: C

Konami - 185/185
Strength: D
Constitution: B+
Stamina: B
Speed: C -> (Anabolic Tetrahygeon Testosterone Therapy Technique)-> B
Coordination: C -> (Anabolic Tetrahygeon Testosterone Therapy Technique) -> C++
Intelligence: C
Perception: C

Well this is surprising to say the least as one second Akeno is ready to snare Toonami into a deadly attack. Yet somehow, Toonami grew incredibly fast that she became a blur to Akeno's position. However with Akeno's intellect and strategy already formed she already knew what to do. Her right hand that appears to be glowing red hot due to the flow of lava chakra. Some manner of energy flowed through Akeno's body as she drops into a spinning crouch with an empty right palm ready to slam against Toonami's stomach. The sheer force in combination of Toonami's unnatural speed will leave a mark as it will feel like somebody just dropped a hot kettle on her stomach. If it connects Akeno hopes that it'll stop her in place for even a moment as multiple tendrils burst from the ground within 5 meters around Akeno and moves like a flash of a speed demon towards Toonami from all sides. Akeno quickly leaps up as she had this planned so that multiple tendrils of magma will slam on to Toonami before immediately hardening into volcanic rock. The blue haired twin is suspended in the air as Akeno lands on one of the volcanic lines.

Toonami would find that instead of being dragged, she is just encased by multiple layers of rock as she is held two meters in the air. Not to mention it will be very uncomfortably hot as the heat emitting from the air and rock only intensified. Multiple, though small meter pockets, clusters of jagged rock burst under the ground just beneath Toon and based on her position Toonami can get skewered if she was to suddenly be dropped.

Afterwards Akeno will turn with grace as the line might be narrow, but she seems to be standing and walking on it just fine. Her attention shifted back to Konami as a Jade blade that is about the length of a tanto slips through the center of Akeno's right palm. And she proceeds to hold the keen edge merely an inch from Toonami's throat as Akeno seeks to capitalize on this bargaining chip.

”Now then. Shall we talk like civil people or do you not care for this one's life?”

Burned a Physical Point (Coordination)
Used Precog to determine when and where Toonami will be.

Upkeep Efreet's Awakening -13 (Tendrils Speed scale with Akeno's Coordination so all of then move at S tier Speed)

Strength: D
Constitution: C
Stamina: B
Speed: B
Coordination: C (S/Physical)
Intelligence: B (⅔ Precogs)
Perception: B

Stamina: 139/185

One second Toonami was preparing to zip past her opponent and clothesline her and the next she's gasping for breath. Akeno had received a blessing as well, and this one allowed her to both time and execute her strike before the twin had passed her. Konami knew that Toonami ordinarily could not reach the insane speeds she was going at but she simply assumed her sister was using an experimental technique, although it was quite rare for her to not share such a discovery. Unfortunately, the speed boost wasn't enough. Akeno managed to clip her and before she could follow up, the Konoha Jounin captured her in some sort of magma technique. Toonami struggled against her bindings but she was not strong enough to free herself naturally. Akeno took advantage of the situation a produced a blade which she placed near her sister's throat. The blueberry twin was silent as she realized the precarity of her situation.

"TOONAMI!" she cried out betraying her care for her younger twin sister.

Akeno was open to negotiation but Konami wouldn't trust this rogue with her sister's life without at least some insurance. Shee loosed the technique she had prepared and a series of transparent and gelatinous needles appeared in the airspace above and around her. The needles didn't move but they were pointed directly at the Tatsuda.

"....what do you want Akeno?"

The enemy was holding all the cards at the moment. She couldn't bluff her way out of the situation without endangering Toonami and so she decided that she'd need to negotiate.

Oh the irony that Akeno sees as Toonami is snared by multiple lines and layers of molten rock. For the Phoenix remembers that day two years ago that Toonami was caught in that Sand Coffin and a lot of people fought to break Toonami out. While Akeno does admire Toonami's enthusiasm that recklessness can turn into a liability Akeno wagered. Still now that she has Konami's attention especially with the Jade blade so close to her twin's neck. Tension was really thick between these three, and yet Akeno still offers a smile on her lips as her molten gold eyes stare at Konami.

”Quite a simple thing actually. I want you to deliver something for me to Konohagakure. Preferably to whoever is in charge of the village of course. This, of course, would mean you two leave immediately after I set Toonami free.” Akeno answered as she makes the proposal of basically delivering something in exchange that Akeno let's Toonami go. The shadow clone that Akeno produced earlier has gotten up from her spot with two rolled scrolls in her one hand while the other has the ink and pen. If Konami agrees to this the shadow clone will approach the blonde with a similar smile like she's friendly with them. Or rather, it might display the amount of arrogance she has in certain perspectives. When the clone is close enough she'll hand over the scrolls for Konami to take. Once she does the clone will begin to walk back as Akeno unravels the multi-layers of rock save for one and after her Jade tanto blade slips back into her palm Akeno manipulates the volcanic line to pull Toonami over the pit and onto the other side closer to Konami. Meaning that there will be practically a half closed 5 meter ring of lava between Toonami and Akeno. Once Toon is on the other side of the ring, the tendril opens it's grip and let's Toonami free before slithering back into it's pit.

”There you go. It's good to see the alliance is still going strong even after these two years have come and gone. Normally I would tell you that it'll be unwise to return here, but ultimately that is up to your decisions. So farewell for now.”

Stamina: 126/185 (-13 Efreet's Awakening Upkeep)

”Quite a simple thing actually. I want you to deliver something for me to Konohagakure. Preferably to whoever is in charge of the village of course. This, of course, would mean you two leave immediately after I set Toonami free.”

"FUCK YOU FAGGOT!" Toonami screamed.

The veins in Konami's head bulged as she restrained herself from attacking her own sister. Could the woman not tell she was in mortal danger? Akeno wanted them to deliver a mission and that would entail leaving Iwagakure. Konami knew that Akeno was here to take over the village and that if she left then it would be as good as turning it over to her control. Gin and Masuyo would not be pleased but when faced with the prospect of losing her only sister, she really didn't have much of a choice. "Fine, I'll do it. Just...let her go" Konami accepted the scrolls but didn't look at their contents. True to her word, Akeno would release her sister and the twin would scramble away from the lava pit.

"Your pussy smells like sulfur, magma-bitch!" Toonami roared before giving the Italian gesture commonly associated with "Fuck off"..

Konami grabbed Toonami by her braid and dragged her closer to her. The younger twin walked into the elder's body with a huff. They both knew that if Akeno was provoked she could turn the tables on them at any moment. Once the vulgarity of her sister's words had a chance to die, Konami would try a more measured approach. Akeno recalled the alliance between the two villages but judging from her words she was not interested in serving Konoha any longer. She warned them not to return and then bid them farewell. Konami began to walk away but before she did, she spoke:

"Why are you doing this Akeno? What's happened to you? Why are you working against Konoha's interests?"

She wondered if the answer was contained in the scrolls she had been given. Perhaps, but in all honesty Konami wanted to hear the reasoning from this woman directly.

Akeno raised a brow at Toonami's provocative choice of words. Considering the position the blue haired twin is in one would think that she'd be a bit more considerate on her words. But alas Akeno does not press her blade or anything that drastic.

”Charming one aren't you? Well I suppose we all have our outlets.” With Konami being the more reasonable one she agreed to the terms. So true to her word, Akeno sets Toonami free on the other side of the pits. Toonami had some words that would probably earn some hatred and grudge to most. But Akeno giggles at it as she doesn't let it phaze her much. With Konami taking the scrolls the clone walks back to Akeno, around the pits, and puts the ink and pen away in the bag before it disperses itself. Then, just before the Twins started to leave, Konami asked the series of questions as the area started to cool down and the thick smoke over their heads started to clear up. Akeno took a moment as she subconsciously runs her left hand through her dark locks.

”Well that is something that I can't explain in a couple of sentences. Nor can I openly discuss it. On the other hand, if you two come back I wouldn't mind accepting you into my ranks if it ever serves your fancy. And if you two do that then I'll share my story with you. Deal?”

Konami was glad that Akeno wasn't easily offended. Toonami's vile outburst could have cost her her life. Konami didn't know Akeno very well but she could tell something was different about the woman. Shin must have done something to her mind or perhaps opened her up to information that she had not previously known. Information that changed her perspective and shifted her loyalty. There was more to this story but Akeno was not a position to share. Instead, she offered to tell them if they ever defected to her side. Konami wasn't adverse to the idea but it would complicate her relationship with Konoha. She couldn't give this woman an answer now and by the way Akeno had phrased her statement she wasn't expected to.

"Deal."

Konami agreed. Whether or not she returned to join forces with Akeno depended on a myriad of factors. Toonami wouldn't care for it of course as she had lost to the woman but luckily Konami was far more practical. She pocketed the scrolls and left the area. There was no chance of her being able to beat Akeno without backup, and seeing as how Gin had left it appeared that Iwagakure would fall to Akeno for the time being.

Exit

Iwagakure -> Great Chang Mountains -> Kyoto Meadows -> Senju Forest

Whether they choose to come to her side or not is completely up to them as Akeno is not forcing the option on them. To be frank she wouldn't doubt it if the Twins decide to stay with Konoha and come with reinforcements in tow. However Akeno hopes that is not the case for she will not be able to grant them a third chance. Either way, the Twins we're dealt with and Akeno can resume taking over this village.

[Resuming takeover]

With a bag slung over her shoulder that held supplies and the scroll in her bag as well secured from sight. Akeno looks back as her damp hair was starting to stick on her forehead due to the rain drizzling down on her. With a flash of lightning Akeno caught a glimpse of her beloved home that she is forced to leave behind once again. Perhaps for good. With a heavy sigh, Akeno formed a few handseals obscured by the night and starting from inside the city. Akeno submerges into the earth as the hole covers itself back up like nothing was there.

From here, Akeno makes her way over to that Land of Birds and beyond into the wandering deserts. Hopefully she can get into the Land of Birds before dawn.

[Used Hiding Like A Mole Technique]
[Exit Iwagakure]
[Travel Great Chang Mountains -> Land of Birds (12hr) -> Sunrise Desert (24hr) -> The Great Sea of Sand (24hr) -> Miracle Oasis]

Just as it goes the caravan of reinforcements arrived. Masuyo rode the coach of one wagon with Sachiko as shotgun and the cargo load full if military men. Behind her was another wagon in a similar configuration. The beasts of burden worked double time in getting the platoon up there in a speedy time. It only took they a few hours since they left Konoha which was a travel speed she was not familiar. At least traveling that fast while enjoying a bottle of whisky and not being the one hauling ass.

Her outfit was a bit different from her usual garb as she appeared more battle-ready than usual. Masuyo dressed in her standard gear choosing not to wear the common Hokage garb. Her footwear consisted of standard black sandals fitted for comfort and security. With the toes and heel left exposed they provided additional balance, while the rest of the foot up to the ankle was protected by the thick nylon material of the sandal. The soles of the sandals are reinforced with hardened material to resist heavy impacts and weathering. She wore a pair of loose fitting black pants with the bottoms near her ankles taped securely in white bandage wrap. This provided balance and reinforcement to her ankles while closing off the ends of her pants. In addition, more bandage wrap was wrapped around her right thigh which allowed a navy blue holster to be strapped over comfortably. Around her waist she wears the basic utility belt which carries two green holsters on her right side along with two tool pouches around her back side and a canteen to the far left next to her signature long sword, Blacktongue.

A titanium mail shirt is worn under a common long sleeve black top having a red seal of fire placed on the outsides of each sleeve towards the upper arm. Over that was a fitted green flak jacket provided by Konoha's armory and fitted with steel plated inserts making the jacket like a more flexible breastplate having the steel in all parts of her leather. The jacket was zipped up and secure firmly on her body. She wore a pair of banded steel arm guards which protected the backs of her hands and down to her elbows with a narrow soft spot on the backs of her wrists to allow freedom of movement. Around her forehead Masuyo wears her forehead protector as it should. The black cloth is tied in a knot around the back side of her head keeping her hair in place with the steel plate facing the front for identification. The steel plate has Konoha's emblem engraved on the front. She wore a piece of cloth around her neck which could quickly be moved up to cover her mouth and be worn like a mask for essential stealth operations. Masuyo has straight black hair which extends down to her mid back. Two strands of hair drop down touching her chest which leads into her bangs, those being cut shorter and swept to the side. She stands at 5'9 weighing approximately 145 lbs. Her fair skin is complimented with her voluptuous form which is completed with a pair of hazel eyes. Covering her entire body was a large black cloak with the hood down.

"Hold up!" Masuyo barked as she held her hand out gesturing the coach behind her to stop as she pulled the reins in her hand. The horses stopped. Masuyo grabbed her spear she had at the ready and would slice the leather harnesses which held her horses to the wagon. They'd be freed as Masuyo slammed the hindquarters of each horse. "Scram!" The war horses would dart from the scene and eventually make their way following the same path from where they traveled back to the Konoha stables. The Shinobi she had in her wagon exited and immediately turned the wagon over onto its side transforming it into an improvised barrier. So had no doubt Ninjutsu would eat through these wooden wagons, but they served as a solid defense against light ninja tools and projectiles. If Sachiko was busy daydreaming and didn't read the actions of the platoon she would be flipped with the wagon. Fortunately, inwards towards the reinforcements and not outwards being exposed by the gate.

The Shinobi huddled up taking cover behind the wagons as Masuyo stood out before the wagons with her spear standing tall next to her. In the brief moment she was back in Iwagakure she noticed something was off. "This doesn't feel right. There's nobody here." She said confidently as her eyes scanned the walls. No guards, no patrols, and nobody trying to get the drop on them as far as she could tell. She didn't even smell any recent traffic. Any scent that would have potentially be left behind was washed away by the early morning rain. It was dawn as the sun was blocked by the mountain range yet still having its influence by illuminating the skies to the best of its ability. The valley in which Iwagakure settled was still covered by a shadow.

Masuyo was not around during the skirmish which led to the loss of Iwagakure nor did she have any details regarding it besides Akeno being victorious. There was disappointment on the Kage's face. Going through the effort of traveling across the continent only to know her challenger ran with her tail between her legs. "What a God damn coward." She muttered under her breath while shaking her head. "It appears she was too yellow to follow through with her actions. I don't doubt she made off with some money, or at least what was left of Iwagakure's funds. Unless she's having a cup of tea in the Tsuchikage office waiting for us to knock on the front door which I highly doubt." The Shinobi would stand upright from behind the wagon as one of them called out. "So what now?" Masuyo could tell most people were disappointed in the platoon while some relieved they didn't have to fight. She'd shrug, giving them a straightforward answer. "We retake Iwagakure and head home. Wherever Akeno fled to, we will find her and I will be sure to have her shrug up for her betrayal and cowardice. But first thing's first: let's head inside."

Masuyo gestured the Shinobi behind her to follow her lead in entering Iwagakure. The gates would shut close once all of the Shinobi entered.The needed to search, investigate, and re-establish control over the stronghold.

[Enter Iwagakure | Iwagakure surrendered to Konohagakure.]

Cheap Liquor: 1/3 Countdown

NPC groups:

Masuyo herself returned to the front gates in all of her glory. She was only gone for about an hour by the time she reestablished authority, sent the messages, and planned her actions. Her outfit was a bit different from her usual garb as she appeared more battle-ready than usual. Masuyo dressed in her standard gear choosing not to wear the common Hokage garb. Her footwear consisted of standard black sandals fitted for comfort and security. With the toes and heel left exposed they provided additional balance, while the rest of the foot up to the ankle was protected by the thick nylon material of the sandal. The soles of the sandals are reinforced with hardened material to resist heavy impacts and weathering. She wore a pair of loose fitting black pants with the bottoms near her ankles taped securely in white bandage wrap. This provided balance and reinforcement to her ankles while closing off the ends of her pants. In addition, more bandage wrap was wrapped around her right thigh which allowed a navy blue holster to be strapped over comfortably. Around her waist she wears the basic utility belt which carries two green holsters on her right side along with two tool pouches around her back side and a canteen to the far left next to her signature long sword, Blacktongue.

A titanium mail shirt is worn under a common long sleeve black top having a red seal of fire placed on the outsides of each sleeve towards the upper arm. Over that was a fitted green flak jacket provided by Konoha's armory and fitted with steel plated inserts making the jacket like a more flexible breastplate having the steel in all parts of her leather. The jacket was zipped up and secure firmly on her body. She wore a pair of banded steel arm guards which protected the backs of her hands and down to her elbows with a narrow soft spot on the backs of her wrists to allow freedom of movement. Around her forehead Masuyo wears her forehead protector as it should. The black cloth is tied in a knot around the back side of her head keeping her hair in place with the steel plate facing the front for identification. The steel plate has Konoha's emblem engraved on the front. She wore a piece of cloth around her neck which could quickly be moved up to cover her mouth and be worn like a mask for essential stealth operations. Masuyo has straight black hair which extends down to her mid back. Two strands of hair drop down touching her chest which leads into her bangs, those being cut shorter and swept to the side. She stands at 5'9 weighing approximately 145 lbs. Her fair skin is complimented with her voluptuous form which is completed with a pair of hazel eyes. Covering her entire body was a large black cloak with the hood down.

She had her spear in one hand doubling it as a walking stick with the Tsuchikage robes in the other hand. Masuyo rose the robe to her nose once again taking a deep whiff stopping just inside the gates. She must've left during the rain storm last night. Although childish and impulsive she is still quite clever. Masuyo made a few audible sniffs as she attempted to pick up Akeno's scent. Generally human scent lasted a few days, though of course as one would imagine rainwater could wash most of the scent away. Of course Masuyo's sense of smell was that akin to a highly trained canine naturally. Today she was on to a good lead. "I think I sense something. Follow me." She said speaking to her squad of ANBU who followed her. She'd follow the familiar smell, although feint, to near the gates. It ended abruptly in a patch of earth just off the village road. The Jounin kneel'd down and grazed her fingers across the topsoil bringing it to her nose.

Akeno's scent was certainly present but did not go further. That's where Masuyo's mind put two and two together. "She must've tunneled her way out of the village to avoid attracting attention. If she flew our scouts would've said something. Also..." She said reaching down and applying a scooping a handful of mud before raising it to her nose. "The earth is soft here suggesting it was recently disturbed and is covered with her scent. Stay close behind me. We are going to retrace her steps and get to the bottom of this." The ANBU nodded as Masuyo used the exact same technique as Akeno to tunnel into the earth. She would not close up the hole as she did allowed her ANBU to follow her one by one. They seemed to have little complaint being covered in mud while doing so. Being an Iwagakure native and Earth user she was well accustomed to the dirt. The ANBU on the other hand did not let petty comforts cloud their minds. Masuyo stayed on Akeno's scent and tunneled in the same direction. The squad would emerge every hour or so to take breaks and analyze the area for any activity or clues that could be helpful on their journey. Nonetheless, Masuyo and her squad would stay hot on Akeno's trail leaving Sachiko and the rest of her platoon to fortify Iwagakure.

[Exit -> Great Chang Mountains (24 hr) -> Valley of Dreams | 24 hrs]

Cheap Liquor: 1/10 Duration

The Stuff:

NPC leaving w/Masuyo:

Sachiko had spent plenty of time in Iwagakure, having not heard word from the Hokage to return to Konoha. Eventually, she would find that the connection had been restored between Konoha and Iwagakure, so she stayed, waiting to hear back for further orders. It seemed that there was to be no such order, at least not in a timely manner, so for now, Iwa was where Sachiko set up her base. If Masuyo had wanted her to return to Konoha, she would be told to return. At least, that's what she reasoned out, not wanting to think that she was just dumped in Iwa.

Busying herself with simple tasks, Sachiko spent a couple of months in Iwa, until she eventually received word that the Chuunin Exams was to be hosted by Konoha soon enough, and she had been selected as one of the Chuunin proctors for the Exams. Taking this as her cue to return to Konoha, Sachiko set about packing her gear, and preparing for a return to her home.

The Chuunin found that she was excited to be returning to her home, and the familiarity of her roots. And so, she set out.

-Travelling

Land of Earth, water, Takigakure, Land of Fire, Konoha.