Please Stick to the Rivers and The Lakes...

After everything which went on this past year from the two other Missing Nin disappearing on her back in Key Country, to the dream occurrences which happened here within the Land of Waterfalls as of recent. Not to talk about, and more importantly so, what she didn't get to do. There was the original plan for Hotaru to have made her way to Marsh Country by the time of the last eclipse, but that unfortunately didn't happen. So, she was now forced to wait until the next one to enact upon those specific plans. But, she didn't mind too much about it. The kunoichi would view this as a mini vacation almost.

To start, she'd find herself at the lake which the main waterfall of Takigakure had emptied into. Relaxing on the shore of, just kicking back as the splashing sounds soothed and brought a stillness to the air. She'd take the time to enjoy this moment, if for but only a moment.

WC: 163

It would be a calm time of relaxation. There would be nothing for her to do right now. So all she would do is wait. And listen to the sounds of nature, and their joyful harmonies; the wind whistling through the frills of her dress; the leaves sliding against one another and rustling in the distance.

WC: 56
TWC: 219

However, like all good things, the hour of peace and serenity was coming to an end. And thus, the moment by the lakeshore would draw to it's close as she'd come back to the unfortunately gritty reality of life.

What once was a thriving village along this same small lake's shore, was now in ruin. Decimated. But, hey, meant more money for her in the long run looting what was left behind. She managed to snag a scroll, a tiddy sum of Ryo, along with a strange looking die...quite intriguing.

WC: 90
TWC: 309

Claims:

300 WC -> 3 Bonus AP

250 words to Master Genjutsu Release for No Handseals
Dropping the remaining 59 WC

Kurogane finally arrived at the village's gates, its once bustling streets now in ruins. With no gate guards in sight, he ventured further, his ronin robe billowing in the breeze and his katana sheathed on his back. Despite the serene sounds of nature, Kurogane remained vigilant, always ready to protect himself from any potential threats.

As he made his way to the lakeshore, he noticed a solitary figure with blonde hair facing away from him. With careful steps, he closed the distance between them, his hand gripping the hilt of his katana. When he was mere feet away, he drew his sword and pointed it directly at the person's back.

"You know the drill," he growled, "empty your pockets, or I'll take your life from you. The choice is yours."

WC:130

The woman seemed to ignore his presence completely, but this careless behaviour would ultimately cost her life. A choice was a choice, and this one was his to make, not hers. Shura finally reached his limit as he tightened his grip on his katana. "It is what it is," he muttered under his breath. The katana was poised in a straight line, directed towards the back of the woman. He held it firmly, preparing to take a step forward. If successful, he would step in and thrust the katana into the individual's back, endeavouring to reach the opposite side. He would stay laser-focused on the target and his surroundings, making sure that this hit would be a resounding success. If not, he'd be prepared for whatever comes his way.

WC:129

The strike made a swift impact, swiftly moving her into the next phase of existence. Her body fell to the ground as he looked on. Amid the chaos, it was evident that she was incapacitated. Approaching the still figure with caution, he carefully confirmed that the danger was gone with a subtle nod. As the tension in the air eased, Kurogane carefully slid his katana back into its sheath and remained vigilant, sweeping his sharp gaze across the area to confirm his safety. With a quick adjustment of his robes, he methodically gathered the spoils of his hard-won victory, aware that it was time to continue his journey.

(exit)

(TWC: 367)

Claims:
- +3 Speed, 85—>88.
- Hotaru Origami’s belongings and body
- Remaining words send them to charity.

Kurogane Shura wrote:The strike made a swift impact, swiftly moving her into the next phase of existence. Her body fell to the ground as he looked on. Amid the chaos, it was evident that she was incapacitated. Approaching the still figure with caution, he carefully confirmed that the danger was gone with a subtle nod. As the tension in the air eased, Kurogane carefully slid his katana back into its sheath and remained vigilant, sweeping his sharp gaze across the area to confirm his safety. With a quick adjustment of his robes, he methodically gathered the spoils of his hard-won victory, aware that it was time to continue his journey.

(exit)

(TWC: 367)

Claims:
- +3 Speed, 85—>88.
- Hotaru Origami’s belongings and body
- Remaining words send them to charity.

Approved!