Coffee and Otokage

The following day after the Recital and waking up not as a student of the academy but rather a Genin of Otogakure, Quinn Foster found a good sense of accomplishment and satisfaction with the endeavors and hardships they endured to get to this point. Their headband was handed directly by Kaito, the Otokage. Though during the performance, Quinn's focus was not on the individual fully, Quinn was happy to get the attention of the Otokage to the degree that they were invited to meet about the future. Surely this was likely in discussion to the armor and training tools that were commissioned by Satoshi and Guren which by now Quinn just assumed he was the military force within the village or in charge of the village's safety more directly while serving the Otokage, Kaito Uchiha, with his Deputy, Satoshi Sarutobi. A small notepad would be brought with the Forgemaster on this day to jot down anything that would be brought up or brought to mind from the conversations they would possibly have.

Not one for anything flashy, the standard white button-up, rolled up sleeves, matched with black slacks, had a new accessory outside of the holster that carried their trusty tool. A metal plate with a single music note upon the center would be present and with the first day of being a Genin, the Forgemaster felt no better pride than to wear it upon their forehead that day. Although the slight difference could be felt on their forehead, they knew the weight that their shoulders would now be carrying forward. Not only were they a blacksmith within the village, a business owner for their family, a shinobi for the village, but a protector for those around them. Genin's roles always varied depending on skill and expertise but Quinn opted for a holistic approach to their studies being fully aware that a physical specialist was where they were aiming for. There was plenty to learn as they went but their understanding of weaponry and physical capabilities was already shining in their efforts.

Finally departing with writing utensils in their pocket, their hammer at their hip, and a notepad tucked away, Quinn made their way towards the designated location of the meeting, the coffee shop. Not one for sweets, it was not often they found themselves doing business here. Equally so, the shop itself did not often need a blacksmith's hand for their tools and equipment. The village's methodology for creativity knew no bounds as a lot of the shop's wares were pottery pieces that the owner and staff made for use. Few objects would be needed from a metallurgy standpoint as a beaten pot worked as well as a new one on an open flame. Some more advanced techniques for brews were available though a simple dark rich black coffee was more than enough for Quinn Foster. Doing their standard spiel at the counter, there was sure to get some attention before ordering. With the one-track mind that the Forgemaster presented on numerous occasions, they did not think to check if Kaito had slipped inside the shop or not, unnoticed by themselves or other patrons. Presuming Kaito was not already there and seated, Quinn would select a seat next to one of the open windows, enjoying the light breeze of the land through the open scenery the coffee shop provided them.

Otherwise, if Kaito had been present and there prior, Quinn would simply join them and offer him a warm greeting. Nothing loud or fanciful but rather simple and direct. Making no fuss to position, Quinn's approach to the subtly of the village hierarchy was not to make a fuss. Fully aware of seeing the last time Kaito was in public in the residential district, the Forgemaster was aware that a swarm of individuals could show up at any given time for either of their attention. With the business taking off in the brief part of the morning that they were standing behind the counter, a plethora of simple tools were being requested already. Though the blacksmith was the older of the two, Quinn's lackadaisical mannerisms were sure a different pace for the Otokage, even in such a more informal location to meet. The joy and pride they had from the previous evening remained constant on their face, almost as if that was just who they were, and how they held themselves. On occasion, Quinn would subconsciously adjust their headband as they still were not used to the specific weight on their forehead.

WC: 753, TWC: 753

Quinn resting their mind at the seat of a comfortable table in a coffee shop smiled at the approach of Kaito. Watching him order his coffee, Quinn took a sip of their own straight and simple black coffee. The warmth and richness of the beans were prime to the landscape of the Land of Sky. It was elevated and pleasant with its notes of berries and spice from the local flora in the area. Bearing witness to the barista's concern with Kaito's order, Quinn shrugged as they were certain they would hear about it with either Kaito's commentary in their own conversation or with the barista's gossip another day. As the Kage of the Village Hidden by Sound greeted the Forgemaster, Quinn would lower their head respectively before returning the greeting, "Afternoon." Gesturing towards the seat opposite of themselves, Quinn would set their cup of coffee on the table as a light breeze came through the window, wafting the steam of their brews into the air around them.

Recognizing the tedious nature of cleaning up the Academy's Amphitheatre after the Recital, Quinn would nod understanding. "Lots to do. Much to learn. Still. We continue." They added in taking in a sniff of the brew that Kaito had selected. "Strong? Long hours then?" They would ask the Otokage as the small talk was courteous with general meetings such as this. Although Quinn was aware that initially it was more desired by Kaito to use the Kage's tower, the Forgemaster understood that there was more than idle chatter that would come from this meeting. Many others might still join in and as much as going straight to business was Quinn's inclination, they knew there was more to be aware of as an official shinobi of Otogakure. "Enjoyed the performance?" They asked giving a sly smile, having a slight understanding that it was not many who received their hand band straight from the man in charge themselves.

Picking up their cup once more they enjoyed the taste and flavor provided by the region's coffee. Even without tasting other brands or beans from other lands, Quinn was aware that this is what they liked, what they wanted, and would continue to drink as long as they could. They swirled their coffee in their mug once it got about an inch below the lip of it. They stared deeply at their own reflection in the pitch darkness that was a good and simple cup of black coffee. Their attention, albeit not directly with Kaito, never left from the conversation as their awareness of their surroundings had been enhanced from their journey as a student and now genin. Much was to be gained and learned from others as the Forgemaster did not dismiss any of the others they had interacted with at this point, though having a cup of coffee with the first Otokage of Otogakure is not an everyday affair. As such, Quinn paid close attention to the words he would say or topics he would bring up. A man of this stature would likely have better insight and ideas than the average shinobi. How else would Kaito be able to get to the position without such thoughts, ideas, and strength to garner support from the others and the village before it rose to its current state?

WC: 555, TWC: 1,308

Quinn gave a light chuckle at the commentary provided by the Otokage. Hearing that even baristas in the village could say no to the leader was refreshing just like the wind that blew in. To Quinn it made the village feel more harmonious and as a community. Taking a sip of their coffee, Quinn's focus remained intently on Kaito's words and his body language. Seeing the Kage up close like this is a treat in and of itself. Listening to the realization the young leader found in their performance made a warm smile grow on the Forgemaster's face as it appeared at least one person found the meaning behind their desired performance. The result of their hard work paid off in more than one as Quinn was already aware that their business got more attention shortly after their recital. "Was my pleasure. Growing up. Learned a lot fast. Good way to remember where you are. Remember where you started." They added to the conversation. Giving a small hand wave to the part of being crucial a light blush arose on the Forgemaster's face, "You embarrass me. Just as vital as the barista. Just as vital as you. We're all here together. Rising. Falling. Learning. Growing. Many art forms. Many new faces. Many to be discovered. Hidden in the Sound."

When asked of wants, desires, dreams, and goals, Quinn had to think about this one for the best part of a minute. Not many pressed the Forgemaster for their wants and feelings and that was fine by them. When asked by Kaito, it was a different matter. As a genin to the village, Quinn was aware that their life could be in danger given a slip-up or two and that a target would be marked from other villages potentially as well to learn what secrets they may know. A lot of those thoughts are the extremes but the chance was ever present. "Family practice." Was the first two words Quinn used to answer the kage's question. "Small history of Fosters..." They began as they explained how their family was from the original populace that was here before the shinobi village was founded. As a small-time generational family of blacksmiths, the best way they found work was through acquiring different professions on the side of their standard forging. Many in their family would eventually start a family with the new profession in mind as it helped support and diversify the family while contributing to the larger whole of the community.

Elaborating on their own situation, Quinn never found an avenue that drew them to another profession till recently. "Satoshi and Guren. Visited and purchased. Piqued my interest. Learn more about needs. Make better equipment. Simple practice. Good business." Explaining the motive behind starting it was clear that Quinn's objective was to support and empower those that wished to use their wares that they made with the help of what remained of the forging members of the Foster Family. "Zidane, Guren's brother. Works too." They included the statement. "Offering chance and work. Offering goods and wares. All is good business. But supporting the village? It's the best way to support the community. I move for others. Forge for those who cannot. And now protect those who cannot." Quinn gave a resolute look at Kaito before drinking more of their coffee. Rambling for a while, Quinn gave rest to allow Kaito to process what they had brought up to them.

The Foster family was an odd one for sure as most families that had a knack for a craft remained true through their generations to what they did. It appeared at large the Foster family simply choose a different path to showcase their deepest desire, to help the community. Finding roles and helping support and learn their trades to craft better tools, expect and anticipate needs, seemed to be a common trait that Quinn described to the young Otokage. As the family was not a shinobi clan or even a clan at all, they operated as a pillar to the community they wished to support and Quinn found the shinobi force that found itself here as their own calling. "An end goal? Keep improving. Keep helping. Keep going till I stop. Always more to learn." They firmly stated, raising their coffee mug towards the counter in hopes they would see and bring the Forgemaster some more coffee. Since they opted for black it was an easy refill order and Quinn offered the waitstaff the appropriate amount plus some more as thanks for coming to refill the mug.

WC: 763, TWC: 2,072

After rambling for some time, Quinn relaxed and listened to Kaito's assessment of their answers. It made Quinn happy to hear that he stepped into his role to be able to do what Quinn wanted to do and that he was validated by those around him to continue that path. There was much to admire about the man who rose to the position of Otokage in a village recently founded. Especially one that grew into the role rapidly from Quinn's won experience. Many were uncertain but many more embraced the change and sought after the coattails of success with it. Many could see their own situations improve rapidly due to the growth of such a shinobi village in the region let alone the Land of Sky.

Going with the flow has always been what the Fosters were about and it seemed to them, that Kaito picked up on that quickly. After hearing if they had any questions for him, Quinn pondered for a second before drinking some more of the fresh coffee that was brought over. Considering the options and the opportunity presented the Forgemaster simply smiled. Although it was early in the infancy of the village's growth Quinn could not help but wonder, "Would you find this village again? Given all you know. Given the options that were present. Would you walk the same path?" It was a simple but deep question. It was likely not one that Kaito had given vocal words to at this time and due to the average age of the genin he would interact with, not many would be so focused on legacies or history that is being made here as a whole. At least to Quinn's experience a lot of the genin were self-focused and that was not a bad thing, but they were all young and their death or success would shape the village beyond their imagination.

Quinn being older thought long and hard about their own decisions to stick with their own art as they discovered a new path available. Letting Kaito have time to think and ponder, Quinn spoke up after. "Given the chance. If I had the opportunity. Maybe I would have become a shinobi sooner." They stated with a forlorn look as they stared at themselves in their coffee. They shook their head before taking another sip. "But I know my path. Brought me here. Brought me to this point in time. Brought you and I. You and others. Myself and others. Together. I've gained experiences unimaginable. I hope to continue that." They stated awaiting to hear what the kage of the village had on his mind with the question being begged. Unsure how he would react, Quinn simply enjoyed their coffee.

The breeze carried the sound of the village on it along with the smells of the coffeeshop. Quinn found this moment soothing to their status as a genin in the village. They sought to grow and knew that the path forward involved dangerous actions to take but knew that many would bathe in the glory that was that path but Quinn did not seek the path out of glory but out of necessity. The world was dangerous and being strong proved to allow one to protect others but it also brought danger to the door at the same time. Announcing yourself to the world was a scary thing and hoped that their antics of announcing themselves would eventually get through as their words were not the best to explain the idea of exposing oneself is a dangerous thing and something one had to accept to become successful. Their mind wandered on these thoughts awaiting Kaito's.

WC: 611, TWC: 2,683

Kaito Inuzuka wrote:

[TOPIC EXIT]

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WC (POST) = 734 WC
WC (TOTAL) = 1,817 WC

AP UTILIZED:

ITEMS UTILIZED:

EXIT CLAIMS:

Approved

Watching as Kaito was caught off guard by their direction of questioning, it was not surprising that it appeared to Quinn that Kaito was a fairly busy man with much on his mind outside of the possibilities. A smile was easily seen on the newly promoted Genin between their coffee sips. Listening intently to the story that was being told, Quinn paid close attention to the vocalization that there was a chance that the reality they were in would likely not have been. An understanding nod would be given to the Otokage as he continued to elaborate on why that would likely be the case. There was not much to say as he even paused to give Quinn an opportunity to perhaps make a statement, a provocative comment, even an aggressive gesture but none would form or be indicated in the way Quinn held themselves in Kaito's presence. In fact, there was much respect being given to the Lord of the Village as Quinn simply motioned to continue with his commentary. There was much to learn and understand about the workings of a shinobi village and this was a preview and peek into the understanding of what was likely to come in the future should people have to step up. Although the idea of becoming an individual high within Otogakure's structure was a bygone thought for the genin, they understood that good leaders also need good followers for support.

With their other comments being accepted by the Otokage, it was plain as day the pride he had with Otogakure and its inhabitants. He beamed like a proud father, perhaps a young child in the eyes of Quinn as they were senior to the kage in age alone. Even with the black bitter coffee, there was a sweetness to see the aspiration of Kaito bloom in the facet of the village. There was much to enjoy and process with the conversation but not all meetings were to be that of luxury and comfort. Growing a village and learning was always fun and games till business needed to be taken care of. Quinn of all the genin likely had a better understanding due to their involvement in the growth in their capacity, not through missions, but through actual business practices. With Kaito's remarks on their own path, they stood up in sync with the kage and matched the stretch even. "Pleasurable conversation. Need to do again." They commentated as they nodded in agreement to Kaito's feelings for them. "It shall be. Enjoy the office. Surely work to be done." They gave a light laugh at that giving a bow to Kaito before he left the sum of the cost of Coffee and Otokage upon the table for the waitstaff to claim. Quinn dropped a few more to give a small tip to their efforts to leave the two to talk in peace in such a crowded coffee shop.

Quinn departed shortly after feeling the wind against them and the world around them cheering them onward. The Forgemaster was always moving and always working within the village and now as Genin of Otogakure, it was going to be plain to see that their development would likely run parallel with the village's. As they progressed in their journey as Kunoichi, the village would grow and develop. With the thoughts of Kaito's last comments, there was much to be enjoyed in the future conversations should the two have more meetings, hopefully as pleasant as this one and coffee to be included as well hopefully. With their headband presented for the village to see, Quinn closed their eyes to listen to the sounds and simply enjoyed the world around them before heading back home.

[Exit]

WC: 618, TWC: 3,301

Claims: