Samurai for Dinner [Oda]

Masaru had been revived for only a few days, his personal staff and the Tsuchikage and those she trusted knew he had awoken from the coma he had fallen into all those years ago. It was on a particular sunny mid day when he overheard his staff talking about a Samurai that they had seen in the village, the first thought that would go through the man's head was that it was a pretender. The only true samurai where in the Land of Iron, however whenever he heard their description of the man his thoughts would change. 'Could it be?' he would think to himself as the image of Oda flashed into his mind, he only had met him once whenever Chen and himself had traveled to the land of iron to speak with the Shogun. The more he thought about it the more he knew he had to find out if it was indeed the Samurai Oda, summoning Hansuke to his office Masaru would hand the old man a note, "Find the Samurai and give him this. Tell the Kitchen there will be a guest, and handle the rest, Hansuke." Taking the note the Hansuke would bow and take his leave without a word, while Masaru prepared himself for his guest. He could trust Oda, but there are spies everywhere and he would rather the world not know of his return just yet.

Leaving Masaru, Hansuke would stop by the kitchen informing the kitchen as well as the rest of the staff's estate that they would be receiving a guest before heading out of the Tetsudashi District to find this Samurai. Masaru had given no identification beyond Samurai, however Hansuke himself had seen Samurai before, even trained with some in his younger years and knew the difference between a real one and an imposter. He would scour the village looking for the man his lord wished to speak with, asking villagers where the Samurai was until finally finding the man. Walking up to the man, Hansuke would bow out of respect before speaking. "I have a message for you," as he spoke he would hand over the small rolled parchment, as soon as the man took the parchment Hansuke would take his leave with a simple "My Lord, looks forward to receiving you," before returning to the Tetsudashi District and finishing any final preparations need before Masaru's guest arrived.

The Message:

---

Hansuke:

Oda would walk quietly along the cold streets of Iwagakure through its market. Despite how frost covered the buildings and pathways appeared to be the people continued life as normal. Just a little more bundled up. For Oda however this was as any other day in the frozen tundra of the Iron nation. Tetsumaru especially was difficult to advance on due to how cold it was. Some even rumored that their winter nights were not survivable out in the open. Of course this had never been an issue for Oda or anyone near him. Oda had the gift of warmth and wherever he went summer seemed to flow with him. Frost would part from his path and the walkway would dry. The walls would follow suit as he left cleared stone of the winters mark for a short time at least. It certainly wasn't painful to be near him...but it felt akin to being in front of a bonfire. Still he would carry himself differently as well. He would not slouch but carry his shoulders squared. His back straight and his smile ready. It was expected of a lord of a clan...especially a Samurai clan. He just stood out in the market.

For attire Oda had selected a black uniform with his Hinode long coat hanging from his shoulders. White in color with fall leaves decorating the bottom hem. Which matched his hair nicely. A mixture of primarily white with highlights of a fire orange through out. His thick black eye brows narrowly separated above his pale eyes. Finally he was adorned with ebony armor. Black glistening metal breastplate with bracers and greaves. Tended to consistently and tightened properly. On his back over his right shoulder as slung Fumetsu. Fumetsu is a 36 inch odachi of superior craftsmanship. The metal is stamped with the name of the sword inlaid in gold and the emerald green sharkshin tsukaito wraps around an inlaid iron symbol for tthe iron nation. The Tsuba is carved from bone, reinforced by the maker to be neigh indestructible. An adamantite Odachi crafted for the land of Iron in a pair of weapons made by two crafters. Lady Darhk and The Iron prince. This particular one was made by Lady Darhk. Granted to him as the left hand of the Shogun. For his feet his bare feet touched the stone with no fear of wounds or cold. After all few knew it but Oda was virtually immortal.

For now Oda had been on the search for some tea options within the market. It was turning out to be a bit of a rarity outside of the more common brands but he held out hope for the time being. People seemed surprised by his warm presence and when he spoke kindly to them they responded in time with less of a gruff nature. His kindness simply felt genuine and his smile met those pale eyes. During his time searching he would even buy some warm bread and stop by the local orphanage to drop it off. Enough for all of them but due to his limited budget....only fresh bread was the best he could do. Still it was from one of the workers running the orphanage he had been informed of a tea stall that sold all sorts of exotic tea leaves. With a smile he would bow to them before setting off for the stall. It was during the purchase of this assortment that he was approached by an older but friendly man.....handed a letter and shortly the man was gone with a simple explanation. Oda would read the letter before receiving directions from the stall owner.

Once the bartering was finished and Oda paid a fair price he would be on his way quickly. Someone wished him as their guest and though they shrouded themselves in mystery he would not keep them waiting. He wasn't the fastest by any means but he could run the entire way there without breaking a sweat or even struggling to breath. His sheer stamina was staggering for most. Still he held his chakra pressure in carefully. He knew that if he pushed it out...the pressure from his chakra could suffocate another normal person. Still he would arrive at the gates to the estate. Steel of course. He would smile as he approached the guard there. Holding out the letter for him to review. No doubt expecting Oda.

"I beg you're pardon for the sudden arrival but I do believe I have received summons from your lord for the evening. Would you perhaps inform me of whom that is? I wish to show a polite and proper form when addressing them."

The samurai's approach would be greeted by two young looking Tetsudashi fresh from the academy, no older than their early twenties, Masaru had deployed the higher ranks to shifts on Iwa's great walls as the villages protection was a higher priority as Masaru did not feel too threatened by those in the village. The genin we're merely to keep an eye on the coming and going of the district, in case there was anything suspicious in activity. Though he would be greeted politely and welcoming, whenever he asked who had requested his presence the pair would fall silent. Considering Masaru's orders they were not permitted to tell the man he was awake, after a long pause and looking between Oda and each other the first would clear his throat. "I'm sorry Lord Hinode, if you do not know. Hansuke-Sama will have to explain whenever you reach the manor." The man would then return the message to Oda before pointing to the large manor at the end of the road, even from the gate one would be able to see the moderately large manor that had been built when Masaru was the Tsuchikage.

Though now it was several years old, thanks to the help of the Tetsudashi clan and possibly even some citizens of Iwa the entire district was maintained in his absence and to him looks exactly like the day after it was built. The road was a beautiful mixture of Tetsudashi steel and Tatsuda rubber that created enough heat that while the rest of the district was covered in snow like that of the village the street was clear as the falling snow evaporated as soon as it landed leaving a clear black strip in contrast with the white snow. Though it would not be enough heat to cause it to be unpleasant for those that walked the streets, merely enough to warm the soul. Both sides of the street leading away from the streets would be lined with Redwood trees that stood nearly as tall as the hundred foot walls that surround the district and even larger ones could be seen in the far distance behind the manor Oda was directed to, this was because they did their best not to disturb the nature as much as possible. The trees that were unfortunately in the way were moved to other locations through earth techniques by Masaru and other Shinobi, as Amaya refused to allow any of the construction team to cut a single one down. From the streets one could see small groups of wildlife that roam through the district. The would be a small clearing approximately 90meters or so from the gate on the left side of the street where there would be a large stone in front of a graveyard with the following engraved into it.


This small cemetery held all of the clans dead, around a hundred tombstones can be seen sticking out of the ground through the snow that surrounded the landscape. The grave markers were all neatly aligned with one another in perfect rows with no distinction between the graves as they were all the exact same in size and appearance with the exception of the names written upon them, though there was no way to tell if the grave belong to a lord or a commoner or when or how old they were when they died. With the snow on the ground it would be hard to tell when the graves were placed, but it would be cleared that all were Honored equally here. On the other side of the cemetery the Redwood trees would continue for a little while longer before reaching the end of the treeline that ran next to the road making the area feel more open though there would still be trees here they were much more spread out with houses and other buildings spread out around them. There would also be some spots of construction work going on, though at this stage it all that could really be seen was the foundation of the Tetsudashi private training grounds. Those that walked the streets of the district would smile and acknowledge the man as he passed by them. The sound of children playing and laughing could be heard in the distance, and the aroma of tea mixed with the natural scent of the redwood trees lingered in the air.

The main street would lead directly to the front steps of the large manor, splitting off and going around it as if there could be more to the district behind the manor, though with the size of the manor it would be impossible to tell unless one walked around it. The steps would lead up several feet as if the door was on the second story, the banisters on either side of the grand staircase was in the shape of a dragon with their backs running the length of the stairs, their mouths at the base of the stairs open as if posed to attack if they could. The oversized doors of the manor would be open and the old man that had delivered the message to come here would be waiting for the man, standing just inside the doorway. "Ah, Lord Hinode. My name is Hansuke, thank you for taking the time out of your day and arriving so quickly, though I am afraid the kitchen is not yet finished with preparations. If you would please follow me to the study, my Lord, will join you there shortly." As he turned from the doorway moving across the entryway past a set of stairs that rose up to the floor above on either side of the wide hallway, Hansuke would speak in a quieter tone as though he did not wish anyone to overhear him say it. "My Lord, has deemed that you are trustworthy and therefore have been granted this audience. However I must ask that what is discussed within these walls stay as such, there are things that my Lord wishes to remain out of public knowledge right now."

The hallway approximately 15 feet wide held several paintings hanging throughout it, some that had been acquired in Iwa, some from other countries, and even some of Masaru's own work. One in particular that would be likely catch Oda's eye would be that of a painting of Tetsumura, it's great iron wall standing in all it's glory with the gate of the wall opening just enough to see the beautiful village and the Shogun's Palace behind it. Of course in Masaru's opinion it does not do the city justice, as it was simply painted from memory of his brief visit there with Chen and even with his eidetic memory his painting was unable to capture the warmth he felt from the people there. There would be paintings of other villages that were either painted by Masaru or bought from a true artist as well as a few other landscape like paintings.

Hansuke would lead Oda past several doors until they reached the end of the hall and the older man opened the door revealing a medium sized room that's walls were lined with bookcases filled with books from floor to ceiling, with the exception of the fireplace on the far wall opposite the door which held a small but roaring fire. A portrait of Masaru standing behind to a sitting Mitsukira with his hands upon her shoulders and a young pink haired girl sitting in her lap and Hansuke standing next to him, hung above the fire place. The Tatsudashi family, seemingly overlooking the room where Masaru spent most of his time since his return. There would be two lounge chairs facing  the fireplace with a small table between them, with a motion towards the door Hansuke would smile at the Samurai. "Please make yourself at home, I will bring some tea in shortly. Lord Masaru should be down momentarily." Almost as soon as Hansuke had said this did Masaru come around the corner from the stairs, "Oda Hinode of the Land of Iron as I live and breathe, it's good to see you my friend." Masaru nearly shouted down the hall, the sound of joy at seeing the man could easily be heard in his voice. Outstretching one of his hands whenever he got close to grasp Oda's, "It's been too long. Come let us have a seat and catch up." He would add as he would motion to the door of the study where they could sit and catch up. Once seated Masaru would look to Oda with a slightly more serious tone, "What brings you to Iwa? All is well in Tetsumura I hope."

Oda would admire the craftsmanship of the roads but all in all he found the clan district to be as peaceful or more so than his own. These two guards appeared a little green to him. Which with his thoughts back to the other parts he had seen. Recalling no more elite guards along his way. He had assumed them hidden before but now...well his own clan had kept their best mostly in house for their district. Sending their top samurai to aid the village but keeping their own numbers up too. Still the roads were interesting as well. He smiled at the children as he passed and now he found himself with even more questions. They were all tight lipped about who had invited him...yet seemed prepared to receive him. He rarely liked being the only one in the dark for an event. Still he was curious and not too stubborn. That aside no one asked to take away his weapons....an oddity certainly but one he preferred.

Still he would move up to the impressive manor. Soon enough he would be met with the older gentleman with the friendly face and escorted inside. Enjoying the soothing thanks for his quick arrival as well as being informed that supper was not yet ready. He would chuckle warmly as he had at least exceeded their expectations. Still the older man would continue to speak. Asking for discretion due to a trust put into him. So it was someone who trusted him which meant likely someone he knew. Diana wouldn't go through these lengths he was certain. Chen would rather have spit on him and was supposedly imprisoned as it was. A lord of the Tetsudashi huh? Okane had been missing for some time and they hadn't been in contact with the man for years...and this kind of lavishness suited him well enough. Though aside from being amused with the title prince of Iron the man had rarely advertised his Tetsudashi bloodline. Still Oda would speak in reply to the man. His own voice soft in response.

"I have no intention of spreading rumors or news. Not to most. However I am honor bound to share anything I learn with my Shogun. I will not hide details from them. I am sure your master understands. Still if you would have tea supplies brought to the study as well I would be grateful. Just the tea pot with water and the cups please."

However that was responded he would soon be left to his own mesmerized moment. The sheer amount of books in here and shelves were like a fantasy. They had collections themselves and libraries but nothing on this grand a scale. It seemed the clan known for its crafts and raw endurance would of course be profitable. Even their personal library was expansive. He certainly hoped these books were tended to and read instead of just for show. However his attention would be drawn to a couple of different paintings. The first was the gate to his own village. It had been built up even more since then but it was still a memorable sight. His pale eyes would shift to the main piece in the room however. His illusions that this was Okane seeking him out dropping immediately. The people posed there were more than familiar. At least the one of them was.

As if in answer to his revelation Hansuke would invite him in and quickly name his host...right before his host would make himself known. Such timing was impressive Oda would offer a warm smile to the man. Taking the outstretched hand as two very warm individuals clasped hands. It would almost be like two heaters standing right next to each other. Making the fire entirely unnecessary. Still neither seemed to be sweating despite this and Oda would place a hand on the mans shoulder as he shook his hand. "Hello Lord Masaru. It has been some time indeed and it is good to see you hosting me this evening." After which Oda would let his hand and shoulder go and follow to the chairs. Waiting until Masaru had been seated before taking a seat himself. Answering the mans initial question.

"More of an investigation mission if I am being honest. Tetsumura is doing swell and has more than recovered since the effects of the last war. However one of our primary donators, Tomi Okane had been our primary source of outside information. Since he went quiet two years ago when his flying city fell, we have not been able to reach him. Though after hearing what happened in Suna shortly after arriving here from Lady Diana herself I am concerned for his safety. I even had some hope it was him summoning me here this evening. Though I am in no way disappointed to see you are well."

"As you wish," would be all Hansuke would say in response to Oda asking for just water in the tea pot and the cups, though he was slightly taken aback he would be respectful and not say or do anything that would reflect badly on Masaru. Almost as quickly as Masaru arrived, Hansuke would take his leave without a word to go get what was requested and check on the progress of the food.

As they sat and Oda spoke of how Tetsumura was well a smile would form on Masaru's face, though it would quickly vanish at the mention of his cousin's disappearance and what happened in Suna, though he chuckled slightly at the part of not knowing who had summoned him. "Yes, I am sorry for all the cloak and dagger, however with everything that has happened I am not yet aware of who I can trust with certain information. Which is why no one is allowed to speak of my return outside of these walls or the walls of the Tsuchikage's office, as you never know who is trying to listen in and if anyone tried it here, I would know considering my sensory, and the kage's office is protected from such as well. Though when I heard some of my staff speaking of a Samurai matching your description, I knew I needed to speak with you. As you are one of the few, I know to be honest and true and therefore I have no doubt in my mind that I can trust you." He would pause for a moment leaning back and relaxing in his chair as the door opened once more and Hansuke would arrive with a small cart with a Tray that held a tea pot and some cups, "Lord Masaru, Amaya has returned. I told her you were in a meeting." Masaru would simply nod at the comment as Hansuke took his leave. "I am afraid for my cousin, though he does not hold the family name he is my blood. I am actually in the middle of planning a trip to see what I can find out on the matter. Unfortunately, I fell ill four years ago falling into a deep coma that most thought I would never wake from. The disappearance of my cousin, followed by my pupil disappearing only to kill so many innocents in my absence was quite a shock to wake up to. I would have already left to the wreckage where my cousin disappeared, however I had a few things that needed to be taken care of here first. However, I will be leaving within the week headed in that direction if you would be interested in joining me if you are headed that way. Of course, I would understand if there were other things you must tend to, I am by no means trying to pressure you into going, though I could use the company." Masaru would finish with a small chuckle at the mention of company, he would take Amaya or Hansuke with him had it not be for the fact that they would be needed here to look after things in his absence as they had while he was in a coma. "After that I plan to track down my former pupil and find out for myself just how far the boy has fallen, though that I will be doing alone."

Oda would listen as the man would explain his choice for secrecy. It was true that any enemy believing you dead or vulnerable enough to be taken at any time was an ill prepared one. However it was also indirect. Oda preferred addressing situations directly. Most Samurai did. They were more interested in fighting with honor than with tactics. Still he saw the purpose of it. He had explained already to the servant about his own duty and no doubt Masaru knew it as well. Still Oda would smile with amusement in his eyes at all this talk of trust. "All of that from one meeting? You must be excellent at reading people lord Masaru. I commend you on that and thank you for the flattery. Of course I have no qualm or interest in breaching that trust until my return home. At which point I am sure your resurrection will be well known." He would state plainly. He didn't mind his words too much but he was polite about it.

Still the things he had asked for would arrive and he would smile with thanks to Hansuke. Collecting the teapot Oda would quietly remove the cap. Reaching into his breast pocket to pull forth two home spun tea bags. The scent in the air filling with honey and cherry. He would place them in the pot to sink into the water before sealing it again. Holding it in his hand as his chakra would heat it. A small bit of steam escaping the top as he listened to Masaru continue. The scents filling the air like a perfume now. So Masaru didn't know either. Troubling but to be expected given his state until recently. Still he would be traveling and he invited Oda along just as the steam grew more potent. Finished being brought to a low boil simply by being in Odas hands. He would idly serve them both tea before setting the tea pot to the side to simmer. Tea was the focus of his free time. He practiced it as much as he did politics and the sword. This tea was a brew combination of his own with a practiced temperature. The herbs were not overpowering but the flavor was already sweet without adding sugars. The scent was pleasant as far as combinations went and the effect was relaxing. Still he would pass Masaru his tea before finally replying.

"I have little need to stay in any one place long. Just until I get a general understanding of it all. So I will travel with you to this wreckage to see it for myself I think before I move on to Sunagakure. To see for myself the damage. I am the eyes of the village out here and determining the state of the world in my travels. However Chen has gone too far and if he challenges me...I will cut him down."

Masaru would take the cup offered to him, taking a sip as he listened Oda's answer to travelling with him to the wreckage. It seemed that their agenda's were similar, as Masaru also wished to see the state of affairs in Suna, and as that was Chen's last known location as far as Iwa was aware it seemed like as good of place as any to start the search for his lost pupil. Though Masaru's outward appearance would not shift, Oda's comment on Chen would inform Masaru that while their paths seemed to run parallel with one another, there was a fork in the road. Masaru wanted nothing more than to bring his pupil back into the fold and return to Iwa, while Oda seemed to be hunting him as if he had attacked the land of Iron as well as the Sand. Masaru's thoughts turned to Oda's comment about him reading people, he use to think he was a good at it. Though now with what has happened with Chen, he was not so sure anymore. Since he woke from his coma, he has found that most of the things he had thought about the young boy he had found wandering the mountains was wrong. Though he was still confident in his assessment of Oda, after all even now the man spoke his mind and did not hide his intentions.

Masaru would show no change in time when he spoke. "You seem confident in your skills, Lord Hinode." Taking another sip of the tea before sitting the cup down and folding his hands in his lap, "To be honest with you, depending on what I find at the wreckage I too was planning on seeing what I could find in Suna. Though I wish to be as plain as I can, and I hope you know I mean you no disrespect when I say this. I am looking for answers from my pupil, if you attempt to cut him down before I have those answers. Then I will be forced to stop you, of course." Masaru's tone and demeanor would not change in the slightest from how he has been speaking with Oda the entire time.

"Everyone is entitled to their own judgement on matters, and I in no way hold yours against you. I just prefer to hear the facts before I make mine, as who is to say his actions were his own, other than him. He could have very well been manipulated by another or under the control of another, there is also the prospect that he did not work alone if he was acting under his own prerogative. For that reason, I would ask that you stay your hand until we have the answers. For I wish that all those involved answer for their actions."

Masaru would take a deep sigh and for the first time he would look away from Oda, as his emerald eyes beginning to shimmer with a tear, looking out the window of the study to calm himself, before adding solemnly "Including Chen," even as he said the words, the man would feel the pain in his heart. He could not believe that Chen did this on his own, but he could not ignore facts once they were presented and whatever happened in that moment he would have to live with. But the question on Masaru's mind right now was, if this was all Chen, could he truly bring himself to kill his former student.

Oda would inhale the sweet scent of his tea as he held the cup close to his upper lip. The warmth of it cascading into him as he absorbed the soft comfort smells. Honey and Cherry were both sweet scents. One may even think the scent or taste would be too sweat. Like a candy even. However in ways they each mellowed the other and blended well. It was of course a sweet tea but one that was not simply tolerable but delicious. He had honed his practice and loved it so. Still he would listen calmly as Masaru spoke. The man spoke of his confidence and honestly Oda was unsure if he could win against Chen. He knew little beyond the bit of fire the boy had used the first time they fought together. Perhaps the man was right and his own immortality left Oda arrogant. However it was not the Samurai way to flee from injustice when confronted by it simply because they may be weaker. Truthfully Oda was prepared to fight a much stronger enemy not because he was difficult to put down....but because his honor would demand it of him.

Still the thought of the man left a bitter taste in his mouth. Which Oda would wash down with sweet tea. The flavor of it washing over his taste buds and bringing a satisfied hum from him. He could already smell the distant scent of food in the kitchen and so looked forward to a good home cooked meal. Traveling had included some trail rations but it simply didn't hit the spot like some fresh home made bread. Still Masaru would warn Oda he would step in if he tried to cut down Chen. Such a warning would draw the pale eyes to meet the mans own. Another dangerous man to have as an enemy. Still calmly he would finish his sip of tea and set the cup down on the tea plate. upon the table before him. Speaking calmly as he did so.

"I will remind you I said if he challenges me. That said I had another interaction with him at a separate occasion. I do not believe these accusations are far from the truth for such a man. You seem to want for there to be a reasonable explanation and for your sake more than his I wish there was. Cruelty festers and grows in a man such as him Lord Masaru....The path we both follow to Suna will be one filled with pain. I only hope we won't share any between us. However last time we met he made it abundantly clear he intended me harm if given the chance outside the safety granted me by the no combat order on the emporium. I have little doubt he will do anything less than attempt to incinerate me the moment he lays eyes on me. At which point you will have to make a choice. A man you consider a friend...or a pupil you still want to have faith in."

Masaru would pick his cup up once more as Oda spoke, drinking the last of the tea from the cup and pouring himself more, offering to pour more for Oda if he wished as well. It was delicious, and through Masaru would never say it to his face, tasted better than Hansuke's tea. What Oda spoke Masaru knew was true, yet he could not bring himself to turn his back on his student so simply. Not at the words of another, even Diana's memories did not change his mind in the fact that he needs to hear it from Chen himself. "I would not allow him to harm you either, if we find him and he attacks unprovoked I will fight by your side. Just because he is my student.... Sorry was my student doesn't mean I would allow him to attack a friend. It is entirely possible that you are right, I know a lot has changed over the years in my absence. Yet when I think of Chen I think of the boy I met not long after becoming the Tsuchikage, he was my student as well as my brother. I cannot simply turn against him as if he were a common criminal, that being said, when we do find him if everything I have heard since I awoke is true then you need not worry for I will fight by your side. I only ask that he be captured alive if possible, so that he may be brought before the Tsuchikage to answer to her for his crimes."

Hansuke would soon return to the room, the delicious smell of a fine meal behind him. "My Lord, the food is ready." Hansuke would announce before taking his leave once more to return to the dining room, Masaru would place his empty tea cup down and stand. "Well then, my friend. Let us enjoy a good meal, you look as though it has been a few days since your last one." Masaru would say with a smile, leading the way to the dining room a few doors down the hall. The Dining room would be twice the size of the study the two men were just in, a long table in the center with several chairs around it. Taking the seat at the head of the table, Masaru would offer his guest the seat to his right so that they may continue talking. Masaru had so much on his mind that he didn't even notice that Amaya was not yet there, Hansuke would come through another door followed by a few servants caring trays six in total. Sitting one in front of each seat at the table, it was then that Masaru realized there were some who had not yet arrived. Looking to Hansuke, Masaru would begin to say something when he heard the squeal of his daughter from down the hall followed by rapid footsteps before the young 20 year old pink hair girl burst into the room with a wide grin. "So your the Samurai, my father spoke of from his trip to the Land of Iron?" The girl would ask noticing the man's blades at his hip, "is it true you only draw your weapon if you intend to kill your opponent? Why don't you guys have Shinobi? What is the Shogun like? How many people have you killed?" "Amaya!" Masaru would shake his head in disbelief, in less than a minute that girl had forgotten everything he had taught her about manners, the girl looked to Masaru before looking back to Oda. "My Apologies Lord Hinode, my name is Amaya, it is a pleasure to meet you." The young girl would say with a small curtsy before taking her seat on the other side of the table from Oda next to her father's left side. "Forgive the girl, sometimes she forgets her manners." Masaru stated giving Amaya a disapproving look.

---

Amaya:

Oda would listen as Masaru continued. His safety was all but promised unless he acted unjustly and attacked Chen first without seeking out the truth. He would reach out and pour another cup himself into his drink before sipping at it some more. The heat of it turning his lips red a moment before they seemed to fade back to their normal pinkish hue as if the burns healed immediately. Which they did. Still he would mull over the situation as he contemplated Masaru's position. It was his student so he likely found some responsibility in those accusations. He had honor to him so it only made sense. Most Samurai would feel the same. Though more often their judgements were more on the spot final and not turned over to the leader of a village. Though this particular mess was too big to simply sweep away. He had spoken with Diana and found her to be wise but troubled. She needed someone to provide judgement on publicly. Perhaps it wouldn't satiate Suna but it may help with the other villages staying out of their business. Though he wondered if the Samurai would be able to overlook this. Most of them hated Shinobi already and this would only be the newest of reasons reaffirming that belief.

"I can't say I don't pity her that position. I met with her briefly when I arrived and she is clearly troubled. Left an office with no direct allies and an international incident. All eyes are on her to do something and yet...what can be done? Even if Chen is found guilty and punished....I am not sure that my homeland will be understanding. The Samurai are always suspicious of the shinobi."

With that though it would be announced that supper was prepared and Masaru would mention something about how Oda looked. He would glance down as he had cleaned up since arriving and then at himself. He didn't think he looked skinnier and his bloodline usually took on the appearance of the pinnacle of health. Still perhaps it was just an excuse to get him to share a meal. Which he was right it had been a small while. So he would bow his head lightly before following Masaru into a grand chamber. Twice the size of the study. Pale eyes would look over it and contemplate how much this building must have cost. At least Masaru was unlikely to chastise the samurai for keeping their wealth to themselves when the clan seemed to do the same. Still he would take the seat offered to him next to Masaru as the six trays were being set down. He could assume three of them but had no idea who the other three may be. Still he had hardly sat down when a squeal echoed from down the hall and hurried footsteps chased it. A pink haired young lady would burst in and announce herself after a series of rapid fire questions. Oda would rise from his seat and offer a light bow in return. Taking his seat again as she did and listening to Masaru chastise his daughter.

"Well met lady Amaya. As you know I am indeed Oda Hinode. To answer your questions...the decision to draw steel against an enemy is not taken lightly. I prefer only to do so when other avenues have been exhausted. As for why we do not have Shinobi the reasons vary...but in our history it has been proven before that those who study the shinobi way have used that power to slaughter our own and take what they wish. Despite having returned those items and killed those responsible such memories are not forgotten lightly. The Samurai on the other hand have a code of honor. If one slaughters innocents they are without honor and thus can not be a samurai. As life is to be valued. As for your last question lady Amaya. That one I do find in poor taste. As life is valued I would not brag as too how many people have fallen before me."

"Don't under estimate Lady Diana, while it is true that she has a large job ahead of her. I believe she is the right person for this country, and in times of need I shall be at her side as both council and warrior depending on the need. While it is true that the Samurai may not like it, and I mean no disrespect when I say this. However, it is a simple matter of this was the act of rogue Iwagakure Shinobi attacking a Shinobi land. While I understand the samurai's concern, I believe Iwagakure should be the ones to handle it. That said, I am sure the Samurai's view on the matter would be heard before a verdict is delivered, though that would not be up to me but rather the Lady Tsuchikage."

---

While Oda answered Amaya's list of questioning, Masaru would look to Hansuke with the questioning look as to the others that places were set, the elder man would simply nod and leave the room. After Oda had finished with her questions, the girl would go to ask another, but a look from Masaru would cause her to fall silent for the moment. "Amaya understands all too well the value of life, and that killing is not something one should discuss as if it had no meaning, unfortunately she sometimes loses herself in her excitement." Masaru would say with a small chuckle, he had done his best to raise her after he had found her, but there is no cure for childhood enthusiasm. He was not scolding her actions as he knew all too well that she was impulsive, but she should have known not to ask such a question as he himself did not like her to ask him those types of questions either.

"Well, despite the fact that the other guest's I had planned have yet to arrive, I see no need to allow our fresh meal to cool. Please enjoy." Masaru would say steering the conversation to the food before them. "As we were discussing earlier, I have some things to take of in the village before we take our leave to the wreckage, but it should not take longer than a week for me to get those affairs in order." Masaru stated as he began to cut into his steak, "You are welcome to stay here during this time if you like, unless you have already made other arrangements that is." Masaru would add. The manor was large enough for the entire Tetsudashi clan to have a room to sleep, in times of need or war considering it was the most fortified building in the district, and still have rooms for guest, so having Oda staying here would be no trouble at all for the staff.

The sound of footsteps coming into the house would be heard before the doors to the dining room would open once more to revealing Hansuke and three other men. "Lord Masaru, please forgive our tardiness." Masaru would look back to the door to see three individuals all entering with a bow before taking their seat. "It is quite alright. Lord Hinode, I would like to introduce you to Akira, Isamu and Kaede of the Tetsudashi Clan. They are some of the clan's bests, they helped take care of this place in my absence, but more importantly they will be joining us on our trip to the Wreckage of the Heavenly Emporium." Masaru would explain as the others sat in their own chairs at the table. "Lord Hinode and I were just discussing our plans," Masaru began to explain to the three that had just joined them.

Oda would fold his hands in his lap as he settled into his seat. The large blade strapped to his back did not leave his side but he would lean it against his back while he sat. Upright with square shoulders and a proper sitting position. He would listen to the defense and praise of both Diana and Iwagakure in the wake of the tragedy. While he felt Masaru was being a bit of a politician there for Iwa's behalf he agreed on one thing. Diana was likely the best suited for the job. Her reworking of the village and her creations certainly seemed to make life easier for her people. He hoped it would not draw out new issues but was certain she would deal with it. She would likely run this more like a business than a country but that was what it needed for now. A recovering economy by decent means instead of harsh ones. How she would eventually deal with Suna though was beyond him. A grand task ahead of her indeed.

Still it would be made clear that Amaya was simply youthful and filled with excitement for adventure. She knew to value life and if Masaru was anything other than a good father he was a warrior. He doubted she had not seen any death. Nor that she enjoyed it. He hoped though that such optimistic outlook would not turn to trauma due to another war. Peace needed to last for her generation at least. Still it would be encouraged they eat and the lids from their plates would be removed in front of them by the staff. Oda would smell the sweet scent of a stake dinner. His pale eyes shifting to his dish and he would wait and listen as Masaru explained his plan. Simple as it was it was also important information. It wasn't until Masaru and Amaya would take their first bites that Oda would begin in on his vegetables. He preferred to eat them first and save the steak for last as a treat. He had always eaten this way. Bad news before good kind of man. Still the invite to stay at the manor was a welcome one. Much better than a room at an inn.

"Well that would be lovely. I thank you for your warm welcome and will take you up on your offer I think. It will likely be far more comfortable here for a week than anywhere else."

His pale eyes would shift to the sounds of boots approaching. He would calmly chew his food and swallow to be ready for who came in. Setting his fork down and wiping his face before Hansuke arrived with three capable looking men who bowed before taking their seat. Each would be introduced in turn and Oda would wait to nod to all three before speaking in return. A soft smile on his face that met his warm eyes. He supposed with all the heat sources in the room between himself and Masaru it would be barely keeping from being uncomfortably warm.

"Well met gentlemen. As he mentioned I am Oda Hinode of Iron. I am the head of my clan and thus my claim to lordship. I hope you will guard me well on our trip. Out of curiosity do you all share a specialty or do you each specialize in something?"

"It is an honor to meet you, Lord Hinode. Rest assured that we will guard both you and Lord Tatsudashi with our life as if you were one of us." Kaede would say pausing to look to Masaru at Oda's question, unsure if she should answer the man or not, however with a nod from Masaru she would speak. "Well we all specialize in tracking and capture, as Spectres we often work in situations like this one that Masaru has requested our service for. We have a good amount of different techniques depending on what the situation calls for," Kaede paused looking between the two men on either side of her before leaning forward slightly "Though I would easily say I am better than these two knuckle heads with a sword," she would add with a smile before leaning back and beginning to eat. Akira and Isamu would both shove the woman for her words, beginning to bicker slightly about who the better swordsman was.

Masaru would let them continue for a few moments, after all seeing the way they messed with one another reminded the man of simpler times, and they needed time to unwind just like everyone else. Though eventually he would hold up a hand and the three would stop and look to him, "I believe it is safe to say without doubt that our guest Lord Hinode is the best swordsman in the room." Masaru stated lifting a single eyebrow as he looked at them as if daring them to argue his statement to which they would all fall silent. Masaru would simply smirk and return to his meal, he always held great respect for the Samurai, not just Oda but all of them, though he couldn't help but wonder how his own skills would equal up to one of them. Though he was extremely confident that it would end in his defeat, it was more of a wonder of how long he would last against one.

Amaya would start squirming in her seat, causing Masaru to look over to her. "What is it now, Amaya?" Masaru would ask to which the girl would instantly blurt out, "I wanna learn swords too." Almost pouting as she said it, Masaru would simply shake his head and let out a sigh. "Well you know, Hansuke can show you..." The man started, but the girl would be quick to interject. "Hansuke is boring, he always puts me to sleep. Would you show me Lord Hinode?" Masaru would look in shock at the girl, before raising a napkin to his mouth. "Amaya, Lord Hinode is our guest. You shouldn't ask him to get involved in your studies. Hansuke is more than capable of teaching you the basics."

Amaya's pouting would become more prominent as she began to plead with her father, "but he is a master samurai he knows way more than the old man, and he is gonna be here for a week surely he will have time to show me a few things." Masaru would give her a stern look at those words as she knew Hansuke was to be respected just like all the girls elders, she would apologize however Masaru would turn to Oda. Slightly embarrassed that the man was seeing this family dysfunction as well as slightly annoyed by his daughters attitude this evening. "Well, Lord Hinode I will leave that choice to you. Though do not feel any obligation to satiated this spoiled brat of mine." Masaru stated to Oda, there would be no anger in his voice. In fact there would be a small chuckle, as if to ask the other man to save him from his own daughter who looked to the samurai as if pleading with the man to say yes. Though Masaru would be happier if Oda turned down Amaya, he would not stop the man from showing her some stuff, but the choice was his to make.

The sound of clanging of utensils hitting empty plates would echo through the room as the three new comers seemed to have vacuumed their food into their mouths, motioning to Hansuke the three would be brought another plate of food before the elder man would leave the dining room to take care of other matters, as the rest continued their meal. Though Masaru didn't notice the heat being so high in the room, possibly from the fact that he was use to it, the other three Tetsudashi did not seem so cool about it, nor would Amaya. Though the young girl would ignore the heat out of her excitement, one would assume that Hansuke took his leave from the room because of the heat.

Oda would quietly eat his food as one of the men answered him. A variety among them though all skilled with a sword. He would chew on a bit of steak as he contemplated it all. His attention on his food partially but mostly on how things may go. It was only natural that the clan with steel release would specialize in weapons of some sort. More so than the average bandit of course. Not that they would need guards against people so incapable. Still it would be a relief to have them for the journey. Perhaps he could let his guard down for it some more with someone else keeping watch. Not that his body didn't have ways around needing sleep. With a minor pull on his chakra he would simply renew the tired cells in the brain. Recharging it without moving. However Oda preferred to take naps and such. It was more comfortable and relaxing. He was dutiful to his training and mission but there was room to nap in there. He would need to take advantage of it. Though at mention of him being the best in the room Oda would smile fondly before swallowing the bite and speaking in return.

"Hubris is the final downfall of any swordsman. To think themselves the best is to invite ruin for lack of caution. If one does not take every battle as if it could be their last it surely might be."

With that he would partake in water to wash down his meal. The cool liquid soothing his throat and clearing his pallet. He would settle a napkin across his lips as he dabbed lightly despite no apparent mess. He had been taught high court lifestyle and traditions. He was raised to be a lord after all. Still his pale eyes would shift to Amaya during her outburst and then calmly to the elderly butler. The man was loyal by the feel of him. Such a proper man should not be called old man and boring. Loyalty was not to be cast insults upon. Still Masaru would scold his youthful daughter a moment before turning the decision to Oda. Oda would set his napkin on his finished plate before taking a breath and speaking in return.

"It is my belief that you would learn little of importance from me. If you can not learn what your current instructor is teaching you, it may not be because he is a bad teacher....but that you are a bad student. Where I come from ones master in a craft is treated with the utmost respect. You should consider how much sir Hansuke does for you. If that does not help you grow as a person...you should not take up the blade. If you all will excuse me, this has been a lovely meal but I am eager to bathe and rest after a long journey. Goodnight my lady and lord. Gentleman."

With that he would rise from his chair and bow his head slightly to the head of the table before being shown to his room by Hansuke himself. It was a silent walk for Odas end as he would let out a sigh once they were out of the dining room. He doubted she would like his answer but he would only be here a week anyway. Aside from that he was not one for holding his thoughts in. When he saw injustice or bullying he said something. Still a nod would be given to Hansuke before he closed and locked his door. Taking a hot bath and falling asleep in a bed made toasty by his presence.

attempted exit

Masaru would smile at Oda's words to Amaya, it was rather satisfying to not be the only one telling her how rude she was being, which seemed to be a common occurrence since he awoke from his coma. Seeing both the disappointment as well as shock that her father allowed it on her face would be simply priceless, and Masaru would not say a word about it simply saying "Goodnight Lord Hinode." as the man left.

Finishing his own meal, Masaru would talk briefly with the three that had joined them late, before dismissing them to prepare for the journey in their own way. Looking back to find Amaya storming off to her room, obviously upset that Oda did not wish to train her, causing Masaru to chuckle. As Hansuke returned to the Dining Room, Masaru would bid the man goodnight as well before heading to his room. There was still much to do and not much time to do it in, but he too needed rest, for tomorrow he resumed training in preparation for their journey.

{Exit Thread}