Hyuga Compound

[Jeriah]

"Performance? Of course not! This is a display of my inner feelings!"

Kabuki's sensei was absent minded some times, even if he pretended to know it all. That was why Kabuki was able to enter the compound and even Sayu's home unannounced! When they returned from their mission through Space-Time Ninjutsu it was easy to keep silent; part of Kabuki was terrified about returning home to see what had become of his family so he pretended to be okay, for now. Earlier in the month he and his friends had quite literally stolen the current Hokage's car and his credit card and made purchases on and off. Since then Kabuki had been visiting Hinome and hiding many of the illegally purchased items around their home. It included video games, clothes, food, face paint and shinobi items. "Oof... I might've gotten a little carried away... heh.... heheh..." said Kabuki scratching the back of his head.

He was in a storage room near the door of the house when he heard a knock at the door - who could it have been? Sayu and Hinome were in the home and he knew that he could hear their voices faintly, though he couldn't make out exactly what they had been saying. Was someone looking for him?

Slowly opening the sliding bamboo-wood door, Kabuki peeked out toward his left and his right. The home had been lit with candles as a result of Anmaku which made things that much eerier. Slightly afraid, the small boy's knees began to knock and teeth chatter. "I'm brave! I'm brave!" he said to himself as he shut his eyes tight. The performer was wearing a designer coat, one he had bought from an online store. Stepping out of the room he breathed out a sigh of courage only to catch the fog of his breath due to the low temperatures. Suddenly he was standing at the door and in the window in the center at the top of the door he caught sight of Ketsugo Uzumaki through the small square. "THAT'S THE GUY FROM THE PHOTOS!" Flashbacks ran through Kabuki's head as he recalled tons of images of Yozu Uchiha and few of Ketsugo Uzumaki falling out of Ketsugo's (now totaled) car outside of Suhaku's house. Clearly he found out where Kabuki was and planned to arrest him!

Quickly coming up with a mastermind plan, Kabuki's eyes darted about as he bit his bottom lip. And then, Eureka! He knew just what to do! Opening the room, the young man looked up to Ketsugo with a devious smirk. "Is this what you're looking for?" he'd say, handing Ketsugo a black credit card with his name written on it. There was at least about $5,000,000 worth of ryo on the card still so he didn't feel so bad about stealing! Besides, it was Suhaku's idea after all!

With a proud look on his face he handed Ketsugo his card and winked at him. From the looks of it, there was nothing bothering Kabuki at all. The death of his friends and the state of the village were nothing, right? After the Hokage took the card he'd continue.

"Yeah, I'm sorry about that Lord Hokage. My sensei had this card and I told him to give it back but he didn't." Shaking his head in feigned disapproval, the small boy laughed in a single huff. "I even think he bought Ms Hinome a new kimono with it too!"

Trying to rush pass Ketsugo, Kabuki made his great escape! "Anyway, excuse me sir! I have to run! See ya later!"

​

 

[Hana]

"There's nothing that could hide from my range"- Hinome Hyūga

Hinome playfully glared suspiciously at her Fiance once she realized he was zoning out. He did hear everything she said right? Honestly getting him to soften up to his students wasn’t as easy a task, but she was sure if she was able to do it these kids will do too. Frankly, it was hilarious to remember their interactions as kids. Back in the days, Hinome was pretty oblivious, they had known each other from the moment they were little kids and yet they barely spoke at first. They only ever exchanged interactions during training at the academy but by the time it was lunch break he always excluded himself from everyone. Hinome on the other hand was always interested in making new friends, the way she used to see him alone made her think he could use some company. It was hilarious to think that one of her methods to get him to open up back then was a staring contest. Little Hinome sat down in front of him and made attempts to speak to him, but he only ever glared back. “Oh! Do you wish to have a staring contest?! If so I’ll gladly accept!” With those words, she continuously stared at him, but from his facial expression, he became rather uncomfortable, well he looked timider even as he expressed how he didn’t like this game and immediately left her alone at the table. Hinome laughed to herself recalling this memory, oh how stupid she was. Back then he didn’t know what to say to her and she didn’t realize he had a crush on the little Hyuga.

She was sure that if her ridiculous antics back in the day were able to grasp his attention so could these kids. Even if he was harsh to them, she knew that deep down there was a hidden concern for them. Maybe it would take a little crying for them to realize that too. She shook her head at Sayu once he tried to deny he wouldn’t yell at them, however, he wasn’t able to finish his sentence and so was her own attention taken away from their warming moment. An unexpected guest, her white orbs moved away from Sayu once she realized they were no longer to be alone together. Her expression changed from a playful one to a serious one. What was the reason for this intruder and who?

Their own Lord Ketsugo showed up mysteriously with an intent that wasn’t easily detected. Surely the man wasn’t here for harm but he did make an unknown invitation to the Hyuga Compound. The room was filled with silence and the only sounds that were heard were his knocks on the door. She looked back at Sayu when he made his remark about his presence, obviously not caring for this visit as he grinned at her. Surely she honestly agreed with him because she wasn’t in a mood to be professional, after all, she was finally able to relax a little bit in her home with the man she hadn’t spoken to for a few days because of the messy situations the entire world had to go through. She stayed put wanting to ignore the Hokage for a while to not ruin their peace. At the same time, she received a seal from her fiance, normally she would question what it was for, but she realized what it was meant for and thus let him do his thing.

Originally she was gonna ignore Ketsugo but the voice of a little kid changed everything. Was that Kabuki?! Her eyes widened as she immediately stood up and put down her teacup and rushed over to the door. She heard the little kid talking about something he had found from Sayu and bought stuff, was it his credit card?! Hinome couldn’t believe her eyes, the little brat had stolen his credit card. Normally Hinome adored Kabuki, but she definitely wouldn’t let him get away with his rebellious behavior. “Oi! Kabuki!” She opened up the door knowing Ketsugo was in front of it but she passed by him to yell after the little runt as he ran away. “Get back here this instant!” She wanted to run after him but she was sure that they would meet again, and when that time comes she was DEFINITELY gonna yell at him. She then looked at Ketsugo and sighed hesitantly and turned to face him showing him a neutral expression despite the stern look she wore earlier because she realized she couldn’t really shut him out anymore. “...Excuse me, Lord Ketsugo. What brings you here so sudden?” She didn’t let him in yet, more so it was because she wasn’t sure what his intentions were and what Sayu’s were gonna be now that they couldn’t avoid him anymore… ‘This damn kid!’

 

[Davon]

Ketsugo's black sandals ended their stride through the Hyuuga Compound, a place the man had visited many times through the years. It was a place where his very family resided, even training and becoming rather skillful in the art of gentle fist. A noble clan of the Land of Fire, who has always produced capable shinobi through strict discipline and practice. Those practices translated most of the time into individual characteristics, such as elegance and class, although sometimes those admiral qualities did not transfer to each person. Even before becoming the thirteenth Hokage, Ketsugo had loved this nation and all of its people within. And too desired for those within, to harness and mold the will of the first Hokage into themselves. By doing so, individuals would live life in service of others. Such virtues were what kept this nation strong, even in times of turmoil, the people would ascend above and beyond expectations. Yet there are occasions where will alone not defeat an enemy, and one must possess power, skill, and preparation to deter any assault from any kind of enemy.

It was the result of life experiences and a cautionary mind that allowed the Red Sorcerer to set up a vast and expansive, multi-faceted layered labyrinth across the entirety of the Land of Fire. It is what had made the Uzumaki Lord able to protect millions of lives during the Red Bombing, thwarting the enemy's means of attack by unprecedented numbers. The traumatic experience could have been unimaginably worse, however, the enemy of the Fire Emperor did not account for such a thing. Simply because the fuinjutsu was unknown to almost any and all, and not easily discoverable through most means. Taking certain action against the people of the Land of Fire, could be thwarted rather easily by the Sage. As well as one could also be negated of any and all hope, resulting in their demise of such an unchartable creation.

This land was for the people of the Land of Fire, and the future children which are to come. There could be nothing to hinder the man's determination, he made sure by making the land and air his domain. Any other system within was privy to him, and the one designed by him too - with the addition of having all necessary information on the makeup and break down of every fuinjutsu system in place. The grid was unknown to even Sayu and Hinome, and any interference of a system protecting millions of people would be treated with immense aggression and handled with no effort. A state of emergency the nation has been in since the attack of the Red Tongue, and all shinobi and kunoichi are active - on call at a moment's notice.

As the Uzumaki Lord stood within the system designed by another, at the front door of Sayu's household, unaffected by its conditions, because all of the nation's territory was domain, by his law and commands. Ketsugo's index finger pressed at the base of his chin, supported by his thumb as he waited. Seeing the movements of those within. Ketsugo thought to himself negligence, remiss, and so on until another took the forefront. A smile came to his face as Kabuki, a lad of the village saw and came rushing opening the door with excitement within his heart, unlike the others. Ketsugo cerulean orbs looked at the face-painted character, handing him a... credit card? Bursting with a chuckle, some spit would leave his mouth and in response raise his hand, perhaps in embarrassment to cover for such a thing. "Wait...is that my ... card?" He inquired in surprise, wondering where it had come from until he pondered when was the last time he used such a thing. It had been years ago, but to him, it seemed far shorter due to past circumstances and recalled exactly where he left it. In a vehicle outside of Yozu house... "Were those photos inside?" A short-lived thought. Kabuki made way for his great escape, which followed the chase by Hinome Hyuga that screamed at the boy. Standing to the right side of the female, Ketsugo raised his left arm and waved at the lad exclaiming. "Thank you for returning this pleasant surprise! If you want to be trained by me any time, come by the Uzumaki Compound or Temple!" Turning his eyes to Hinome, Ketsugo cheerful visage remained with his raised arm now dropping behind his back to his opposite shoulder, apparently scratching it for a couple of seconds before standing upright in a straightened, but calm posture. "Lady SightSeer, as you may be aware the village is still in the State of Emergency and the public is uneasy about the Red Bombing. To secure that the Will of Fire never extinguishes, you and Lord Sayu must go on an urgent mission regarding the Red Tongue." He would pause, anticipating the immediate arrival of the Hyuga Clan Lord.

​

 

[Jag]

It wasn’t absent-mindedness. Absent-minded entailed that the individual in question was forgetful or even displayed an inattentive disposition. Does this sound like Sayū, a man who was raised by a man who hammered discipline into him? As a child, extracurricular activities such as spending leisurely time with friends or others were extremely limited. His father demanded that he either be studying or honing his prodigal shinobi talents. Perfection and efficiency are what his father demanded. Perfection and efficiency were what his father received. Sayū is a man of focus, commitment, and sheer will… something this generation outside a few knew very little about.

The Hyūga Lord had heard footsteps roaming around his house once he had been awakened by Hinome. The only reason he had not taken action or checked in with his detection barrier was that he was housing a special guest within the estate. Sayū had just assumed that it was that individual instead of another. Much to his surprise, he was wrong. It seems as if that person had already gone on their mission. And again, it was the security of his unique seal, that was etched into the very fibers of his home, that provided him additional ease of mind. The seal in question was spherical, transcending the earth as well, and bonded closely with everything within. Whatever law, or rule, Sayū subjugates within this sphere of influence becomes valid. His consciousness imparted within it, just like every one of his seals. The reason why visitors in question were incapable of molding chakra within this influence is very simple: within this region, which can be extended at will, Yin and Yang “bonds” are extrapolated or influenced negatively to create an imbalance.

To further explain, chakra is created when our Yin and Yang energies come together. Each technique formed has a specific input of Yin and a specific input of Yang. Techniques such as the Tailed Beast Balls, which have a ratio of 8:2, showcase this. Another example is a technique such as Yōdama, which has a ratio of 9:1 physical energy and spiritual energy. This technique takes advantage of things such as that, and in chakra form, to create an off-balance. How many “bonds” of Yin or Yang are inserted into the chakra is ever-flowing and ever-changing. It’s random so enemies don’t ever figure out the input to adjust accordingly. That is why no one, of course, disregarding certain individuals such as Sayū and Hinome, is capable of molding chakra within the influence.

It was surprising to see that it was Kabuki and not his guest that was within the estate. He could hear his pre-puberty voice try to weasel his way out of stealing Ketsugo’s credit card and using it to finance his own interest. Sayū was even remotely angry or disappointed, he just chuckled at the thought of Kabuki laughing surrounded by a bunch of video games, clothes, and face paint. Of course, it was all fun and games until Kabuki tried to pin it on Sayū. Kabuki immediately ran off and at this point, Hinome rushed to the door. Meanwhile, Sayū leaned forward and picked up his teacup, inhaling the fresh aroma. Luckily, it was still warm and he began to take a deep long sip. “Ahhh,” he spoke out in blissfulness. It was as if he were sipping on Nirvana. The conversation between Hinome and him just had made him chuckle. Here she was, telling him to not make the kids cry and be level-headed, but here she was, yelling at Kabuki. Oh, the irony.

Unfortunately, his enjoyment was short-lived as he listened to the words of Ketsugo Uzumaki through Hinome. By the time he had finished his final sentence, Sayū had made way toward the front door. Before one could visually see him you could hear him sarcastically complaining, “Geez, another mission? We just got back.” As he finished his sentence he became visible, he was close to the wall and standing there with his teacup in hand. “It’s almost as if the Land of Fire doesn’t have any other shinobi to dispatch.” The Hyūga smirked as he took another sip of his tea. There was some truth to his words. While he smirked and spoke sarcastically, it slightly aggravated him that he was constantly being sent on missions back-to-back. First, it was retrieving a team of genin that had escalated into an S-Rank mission. Then, on their way back, an impromptu mission resulting in combating against Black Market members and saving a Land of Water shinobi. And now, another mission. It seemed as if he had no time for himself. Overworked and underpaid.

Regardless, it had to be done. However, he imagined the life of a retired shinobi with Hinome. Long and far from the Land of Fire and the conflict of shinobi. Somewhere he could enjoy a nice ocean breeze and the saltiness in the air from the never-ending stretch of sea. One day. Perhaps soon.

 

[Hana]

"There's nothing that could hide from my range"- Hinome Hyūga

Now with the face painted kid who managed to escape her, well rather she didn’t feel like putting enough effort to properly chase him. Especially with their guest who came all the way to their home for whatever reason she was bound to find out soon. Her face was slightly agitated, she couldn’t believe the kid was here all this time. Not only had he had a credit card in possession of the Uzumaki but also had crashed his car not too long ago. Surely the shape the world is in right now almost was forgotten but the indigo woman had a sharp memory. Honestly, the real reason she wanted to chase after him was to know if he was okay, she was actually heavily concerned about Kabuki’s mental wellness after everything he and all the Konoha genin went through. Surely there had been individuals who might’ve gone through worse but Hinome’s empathy never faded, she couldn’t help but think of how horrible these events would be for their new generation and there was no confirmation if this was truly the end of it all. But she would need to put her worries aside because what Uzumaki requested her was of higher importance at the moment. Even though she couldn’t help but be surprised by the lack of reaction to a kid holding his credit card, surely he was more laid back than she would think. Even when he was told the lie that the card was in Sayu’s possession. There was no sign of anger, angst, or disappointment to the slightest. Maybe he decided to stay professional and hide his embarrassment for them, knowing how cynical her fiance could be he would only mock it after all. No matter who it might’ve been.

The lady shifted her eyesight back onto the Uzumaki Lord and folded her arms as she stood up straight with her head slightly cocked as she listened to his words patiently the moment his attention was brought back to her from the kid who was probably far from the Hyūga compound by now. She exhaled softly, not by annoyance or disappointment but more that things are difficult for everyone to keep things under control even though she wanted to believe the village felt safe they didn’t, the trauma was too huge.”The Red Tongue cannot give us a break huh…” She mumbled as she shook her head. Right when she was done mumbling her fiance had joined in on the conversation as well with his sarcastic remarks that were partially true that almost brought her to a burst of light laughter, however she was able to maintain her serious temper. Of course, there wasn’t a lie she honestly wished to enjoy at least a few days at home, unfortunately, this wasn’t the career for weekends or long holiday breaks. That’s why it wasn’t surprising that there were some people who retired earlier than expected, but it was a career she was trained for and so she would carry on until it was time for her to retire one day.

“What type of mission is this? I would like to hear more details about it beforehand. I need to prepare myself physically and mentally for this”

Especially because any mission regarding the red tongue wouldn’t be a simple chore. The danger was immediately brought along with the name giving Hinome the slight creeps, she really disliked that organization. Mainly because she doesn’t understand the organization, they were just a bunch of terrorists that fights the shinobi career with bloodshed to stop the bloodshed. A method that had been used time and time again in this world but never was able to take action because it’s been stopped by the hero’s we all know today. The world's biggest fear was that for the first time it wasn’t sure it could be stopped again, especially with the mysterious man himself… Madoguchi.

 

[Davon]

The terrorist organization known as the Red Tongue, was certainly something to be concerned about as they have proven capable of causing mass destruction. A sigh would leave the mouth of Ketsugo, the instance Hinome uttered the name once more. A name that will repeat from his own mouth on multiple occassions.

"The Red Tongue has plagued this nation for well over a decade. In most recent memory, they have attempted to bring down a large portion of the Land of Fire and cripple our future." A concerned expression turned behind, staring in the direction where Kabuki ran off. "As long as I am alive, I'll accept the burdens to never allow the Fire to be stomped on or sullied by another. For the future generations, can have a chance to be better." Turning back to the Hyuga couple, who too were apart of the present and future. Ketsugo understood the frustration Sayu had been under, with the responsibility of going on back-to-back missions. It could be a strain on ones happiness, peace, and overall well-being. Yet in a time such as this, sacrifices had to be made even when one's heart was not full in it. It did not bring any satisifaction to the Uzumaki, because the nature of the mission itself could become a lengthy one.

"I emphatize with your frustration, Lord Sayu. But this household abilities cannot be overlooked, regarding the expertise and skillset. Considering the situation." He paused for a second, turning left and right to see if others were around. Not seeing much going on, Ketsugo could never be too cautious. A light smirk rose on his face like a budding flower. "My mother's estate and home is across the compound, I'd like to you invite you in to tell you the details of the mission." It was obvious, disclosing such private information openly was not an option. Neither did he want to invade on the privacy of the Hyuga's home, unless invited.

 

[Jag]

Sayū continued to enjoy his cup of tea as he listened to Ketsugo speak. Sayū clearly understood his logic on why they were needed to be sent on a mission. After all, they were in unwarranted times and unwarranted times required shifting procedures that were once normal. For example being able to take a break after missions or even taking time to enjoy life with your loved ones. Sayū was unlike the majority of them. He did not need notoriety or fame. He did his job and he did it efficiently. But that was all it was to him. A job. One day, he’ll no longer be doing it, but until that time comes…

“I understand your concern for secrecy. However, that is unnecessary and only wastes valuable time, something we already do not have. You can speak freely here and now. I assure you.”

This was the truth and as he finished his last few words, anyone watching them would find that they were no longer there anymore. As if they had simply vanished and disappeared into thin air. In reality, they still were, but as said before—within his domain Sayū controls everything and anything. Not only that, but the detection barrier also notifies him of movement occurring within the area. Anything out of the ordinary would immediately be exposed. Once he finished speaking, Sayū lifted his arm up to take another sip of tea from his cup. It was clear by his body language and tone that he did not plan on moving and that he was confident that the man could speak now.

 

[Hana]

"There's nothing that could hide from my range"- Hinome Hyūga

The Red Tongue was at it again after terrorizing the world for many and many years. Unfortunately, they weren't anywhere near done and they had to be stopped. And now the Uzumaki expected to protect the village, no the land itself because it was simply his duty, and of course, like most adults, they cared for the new and the future generations. Although they've mainly been raised through an era of peace because of the legendary Heiwa he was no longer there to protect their previous hierarchy which is why the world suffered more than ever. That is exactly why she was in such a bitter mood right now and listened to the man's words attentively. Hinome even detected his share of empathy and concern for the newer generation as they both started off at wherever Kabuki had run off to. However, even though she asked about the intell he had for them and why he needed their aid it seemed he didn't entirely trust the environment for the details to be unheard besides the three of them

Her gaze moved towards her fiance once he noticed the same thing and just like that they 'vanished'. Of course, they didn't vanish entirely but only to those around them, no sounds were to be heard by anyone else but them. Surely the man would feel more welcome to state his reasoning for a visit because there's no one who is able to spy on them. The indigo-haired woman unfolded her arms and allowed them to rest by her body as she waited on the man to reveal what the mission was going to be as she moved her gaze back to the redheaded man to continue their conversation

"With that taken care of, please do continue telling us about this mission."

 

[Davon]

Ketsugo understood the members of this clan were always strict on rules and the practice of discipline. When being groomed to be a shinobi it would seem some also lacked social skills and manners, which suffered as a result of such strict regiment. The Hokage wasn't all too thirtsy truthfully, in fact he was looking to build a solid relationship with the Lord of the Hyuga and the soon to be misses. As an uninvited guest he was treated as such, judged for a reason unbeknownst to him - but regardless of the way he was being treated upon entering the familiar compound, Ketsugo's own actions as a man would not alter or shift out of character one bit. These were capable shinobi of the Land of Fire, with one possessing dormant potential of an Otsutsuki and the other too possessing stellar ability. Yet even with there combat skill and experience, life was unpredictable and ever-changing like the sand upon the ocean floors. Tides would shift and change everything, at least that is how it has been for the last several years within and out of the shinobi world. To be hopeful was good for the spirit - but it was not found upon the Uzumaki in regards to his deep root and connection to destiny which was scibbled and written throughout both time and space.

With his cerulean orbs looking at both Hyuga, interchanging between the both of them periodically. Ketsugo became aware of the measures taken by them, which practically entered them within a private space that was manipulated by the use of an fuinjutsu. It was no need to utter his distate for the Hyuga at this current moment, nor was there any vile emotions or intent but mere truth. The valiant sage would open his mouth and begin to inform the two of somethings.

"Very well then." He then proceeded "The Frost King, Madoguchi is the leader of the cult terrorist organization, known as the Red Tongue. They have existed within this world for more than just the past decade, but for centuries building a stronghold of fanatics worldwide. The possibility of the Red Bombing occuring in other nations are very likely, and in worse case scenario could prove to be even more destructive. So to be out right honest, this mission you both will be going on is immediately assigned as an S-Rank mission. Now onto the details of the mission."

"The ninth Hokage, Heiwa and Owatatsumi both vanished with a legion of Land of Fire forces. Their last known location was to be in the Land of Earth, within a rocky terrain. Their exact coordinates should be known by the Land of Earth shinobi. You both will need to contact the Land of Earth border shinobi, requesting permission to to investigate the death of both Owatatsumi and Lord Heiwa and all Land of Fire shinobi." Reaching into his pocket, would be a scroll with details verifying the request. "What we do know, is that the ninth Hokage is dead and so too is everyone on that platoon. What we can learn about the enemy, Madoguchi, should also be there. The primary goal of this mission is to retrieve any remains, DNA or chakra remnants. Should you suspect that Land of Earth shinobi have harvested remains or DNA, alert me immediately for that is a discussion to be had with the Tsuchikage. Should the situation worsen than an S-Rank mission, abort immediately through the use of your Taiwa Scrolls which shall accompany you on the mission. Are there anylingering questions?"

 

[Jag]

The Hyūga Clan Lord listened to the words of the Hokage with great focus and discipline. Never did he avert his eyes or look away. He remained laser focussed and maintained confident eye contact with Ketsugo Uzumaki. Ranks of missions no longer concerned Sayū. In reality, they never had. Yes, it provided the range of difficulty, but was it based on what the Hokage or higher ups believe is difficult to be for a regular ninja or the ninja they were sending? Regardless, trivial thoughts in the immediate moment. Sayū took in the information Ketsugo provided to both of them and began to plan the mission inside his mind. Visualizing it and preparing his mind and body for the long trip ahead of them.

Sayū heard that the Ninth Hokage, Heiwa, and Owatstumi were missing, but lacked the facial expression and social skills to provide a shocked appearance. It had been some time and it was only right to assume they had become casualties of war. He had made peace with that a while ago. As ironic as that sounds. It was unfortunate thought. The man had run into the Ninth Hokage numerous amount of times as a child. However, they never directly interacted. Despite that Sayū good feel a calming presence from the man's chakra. As Ketsugo brought out the scroll, Sayū reached outwards and accepted the scroll and opened it slightly to verify the request was inside and official. What was the saying, trust, but verify. That was all that it was. Sayū clearly understood what the mission was, the objectives, and the goals. Therefore he had no questions, and he doubted Hinome would have any either. However, before responding, he glanced over toward her to see if she was going to speak up and have any questions. Had she not, he’d reply to Ketsugo. “Understood. We’ll be leaving immediately.”

Had the Hokage had nothing more to say, Sayū would nod his head and turn around and begin walking upstairs to prepare for the mission.