Sloth turned tour guide

Sakoshi Kurosawa stirs as the very first light of dawn slips through the window. The soft light that creeps along the floor promises new beginnings as it brings a close to the night. The rest that has genuinely rested him for the day ahead unfolds into the anticipation of one. With the quelling of stillness also comes the rhythm of promise, the feeling of routines that ground him for what lies ahead. He springs from the bed where his futon had been laid out for him just the night before. Each move is made with surety and a firm commitment to the day that awaits him. His first steps are taken to his bedding, which is laid out in a mess just as when he rose the day before, but not by his hand. 

As he gathers sheets and blankets, something that comes naturally to him, he folds them with the aid of the feeble light coming through open shoji doors. These motions are not just the ordered clan of spaces but truly reflect an ordered life ready for the day ahead. Similarly, his walk from the son's room to the tatami, where he will reassemble himself, signifies the quiet of duty as preset. His walk through his quiet home is simply the morning ablutions of venturing outside his house. His is the cleansing water of renewal that rinses away the night—changing out of the simple garb he employs in the quiet of his room into something more suited for his modest position in the village, which is a village with the same thoughtful quietness that marks his day-to-day life. 

Draped with long pants and a short robe with the prominent mon signifying his profession and willingness to carry out his clan standard, Sakoshi takes his position of headman's deputy seriously. Breakfast at Ren's home is a straightforward meal. Something to sustain him and many to allow the day's work to continue or start in earnest. Both hands are used as they always do to fumble tiny morsels of fish and steamed rice into his maw. These actions are only to sustain, not to feed. This, too, is meditative. 

As he moves through the shoji doors of sliding paper and wooden supports, the village village. It is just beginning to move with the day itself, the village college life as the sun does. The sounds of baskets and shoes on dirt, another waking call that puts the rustle of life in movement before the sunbeams over the mountains to fully envelop the mounds. With the early meetings or visits to the gates, Sakoshi knows what his day holds, even if he cannot see the content.

Sakoshi Kurosawa awoke to the beautiful promise and slightly adjusted his routine. Instead of enjoying a solitary meal at Ren's small apartment, he walked to a small diner near the small house Ren had offered him when the Village was Village around him. The house was provided to him when Ren decided that Sakoshi was an integral part of the village soon after the walls were completed. Villageructed a modest but lovely home that radiated calm and reflection in the heart of the town. 
As he made his way to the diner, Sakoshi viewed the early life scenes in the village with a smile. The streets were still quiet in the rising sun's light, the sounds of early risers and the scents of morning dew and meals emanating from the diner. The diner was a warm corner of the world, filled with local gatherings to consume and celebrate. Stepping through the door to the restaurant, Sakoshi was met with sights and sounds that felt calm and comforting. 

The sizzling of food cooking on the grill, the sound of plates and mugs being set, and the low murmurs of morning conversation filled the air, painting a picture of life in the village, both familiar and welcoming. The staff, who had worked there for the eight years since the town was constructed, knew him and only gave him nods of mutual, quiet recognition combined with warmth and respect. Seating himself at his preferred table, Sakoshi ordered his favorite meal of the day. The diner's menu was the ordinary thing he saw that day, offering simple dishes made with love by skilled humans.

With breakfast on its way, Sakoshi quickly glanced around the diner and observed. The crowd was typical of the diner's clientele, a melting pot of people of every class and trade. But every individual face was yet another part of the village's life. Village's interaction was an entire story told, a moment of shared experience. Each moment that he enjoyed such a scene reminded him of his village's life on the other Side of the barrier he protected. 

As he passed the familiar streets outside again, he felt an energy restored. The diner offered the warmth that a hot meal could give and a feeling of community, the very lifeblood he relied on to protect his village. This village of shared experience and atmosphere was put aside as he plunged back into the town. Villagers of the day, of the week, would offer flexible respite, but he reminded himself near the vague beachhead of stony hearth that he entered his day revitalized.

Feeling nourished after breakfast at the diner, which brought back the camaraderie of the morning meals and the sense of community in the Village, SVillageKurosawa made his way to the Kage Tower. The tower was the VillaVillage'saVillage'sovernance and leadership; it embodied the order and the protection that the villagers lived under. 

As Sakoshi approached the entrance, the Kage Tower stood above him, its shadow stretching toward the sun. It was the VillaVillage'sage and its resurrection in its physical form. Inside, Sakoshi was greeted by Ren, the wise and selfless leader who had led the town to the village trees it was today. The smile on Ren'sRen's showed his warm welcome, a sign of affection and the bond between them. Sakoshi received his orders here, differing in the specifics and being as varied as the days of the same year. Still, each contributes a vital role in the life of the Village anVillageeople. 

That day, however, Ren told Sakoshi of a unique order. Instead of protecting the villagers or educating the children, Sakoshi was to be a guide for the village newcomers. The simple order was as important, if not more, as he would usually receive. It was an opportunity to show its values, civilization, and the beauty of its customs to those not yet part of the village. SVillageaccepted the order with a nod. The ViVillage'sifeblood was Villageeople, and to incorporate them into the framework of the town, the task of a guide was to make the newcomers fit into the alliance that thrived within its walls.

Sakoshi met the new arrivals and considered what points of interest best reflected the village's nature. Every corner was like a chapter in the story of the village's relatively quiet gardens, where the villagers went to escape the noise and stress of the market, which pulsed with the rhythm of the village's artisans and traders hawking their crafts and wares. 

Sakoshi also planned to show the newcomers the communal areas where the villagers came to celebrate and host ceremonies, the very pulse of the community that reflected the shared experiences and the community memory. He intended to tell the history of the place, the story of the people who lived there, the traditions that were passed down, and the life they shared. Sakoshi walked toward the gathering area with pride growing in his chest. Today's Errand was new and unusual, yet a varied service to the community he had always sworn to guard. 

Leading the travelers through the new lands, he would show them their new home and introduce them to the shared story of the Village, which now contained a small part of their own. Sakoshi Kurosawa, the watcher and guardian, would also be a link. This bridge connected the old to the new, the past to the future, ensuring that the village's life pulsed and welcomed all who found their way to the gate.

Following the newcomers' gathering, Sakoshi Kurosawa introduced himself calmly and friendly, hinting at the day to come surrounding the village. AVillageand's friendly introduction reflected his position as a guide and a representative of the town. Guided by Sakoshi, the group began the tour as the air filled with curiosity and anticipation. 

The village's far end, known as the Kage Tower, was the best place for the group to start. His choice of the beginning was tactical as the tower was not only revered by the village as a symbol of its past. Walking down the streets and alleyways, Sakoshi took the chance to point out the different hot spot areas within the town, each with its own story to tell. The newcomers had a bird's eye view of their future at the top of the Kage tower. Sakoshi pointed out the various village districts and the surrounding territory boundaries. The tower was a signaling beacon where every decision was made, whether critical or not. For the newcomers, the trip to the Kage Tower was an introduction to the heart of the village. 

There was a feeling of togetherness that would grow from such a foundation. With a strong foundation of the Sakoshi set, the rest of the outing would further the connection to the village inhabitants. Following Sakoshi, whose voice is like the wind, the group pressed on and grew as they walked. Each step and stop allowed protection to view the rich tapestry of life in the village. Through his wondrous eyes, Sakoshi showed the group that the town was more than the hills they were walking on. Where there had only been homes before, there was now a community united in culture, tradition, and hope.

Afterward, following an enlightening visit to the Kage Tower, Sakoshi Kurosawa, the village guide for the day, took the group to the next station. The next destination was going to be the Tsuikiko's Institute of Medicine. The hospital was a core part of community-provided health care; it epitomizes the village's caring and emotional health. As they approached, the building's calm and welcoming facade promised a warm welcome and compassion. Sakoshi told them that the village hospital was so much; not only was it the center of therapy but also the heartbeat of the community's provision of care. 

The Tsukiko Institute of Medicine was known for blending conventional treatment with current knowledge, living history-oriented, and forecasting health and wellness by village Leader Junko Tsukiko. Inside the hospital, everything was organized around 'serene'; the group members were shown around and introduced to some people who served daily to protect the village. The people within spoke briefly about Master Tsukiko's background, excitement at her abilities, and desire to establish a place to treat all villagers irrespective of their circumstances. When they left, the group members felt satisfaction and thankfulness as the various institute members wished them a good day. 

The next place they visited was Sutageiza Koto, the town square. The city plaza was well-known for hosting different cultural events and reunions, Sakoshi told them from the get-go. The plaza was stretched, with open spaces and opportunities before them. The stage at the center of the Sutageiza Koto was massive, serving as the heart of the village; pVillageould come together to have parties and ceremonies. There, Sakoshi told them tales of parties, concerts, and celebrations on that stage, as well as hundreds of stories that painted a portrait of a village that shared art and music, laughing and virtuosity. The village chief spoke of a stage that was not just a physical location but a spiritual one. Looking out at the stage, they could observe how he told the Tales to the crowd,  the edge of it all; they saw the crowd going crazy. 

They could almost hear the melodies calling through Sakoshi's words. This station was a spiritful symbol, a house of pure culture, joy, and family coming together. The gathering's shift gives an idea of what fellowship suggests to gather; the village is connected by pleasure, delight, laughter, and culture. Sakoshi's guiding narrative pulled his fellows into seeing all the beautiful things of the town and helped the participants know the rich culture they had to share within the village itself.

As the journey through Tsukigakure continued, Sakoshi Kurosawa led the newcomers to another critical institution within the village, the New Moon Academy. This was where young members of the village embarked on the journey toward becoming shinobi, the very lifeblood of the protectors and guardians of the community. In the distance, the academy loomed welcomingly – a structure that seemed to embody learning and discipline through its architecture that combined heritage with form and function. 

Sakoshi provided the companions with an overview of the academy, elucidating its importance as the embodiment of the village's future. Here, the students learned not just the technical arts of the ninjas but the values and responsibilities they were to take on as they walked on their path. 

The institution included a wide-ranging program that covered physical skills, ninjutsu, strategic studies, historical discourse, and ethical development. Sakoshi explained how the academy sought to raise shinobi who were skilled in combat and prepared and equipped for the realities of life within and beyond the village. He added that the students were guided on enhancing their capabilities and becoming worthy people and conscious members of society. The newcomers observed as youth went about their activities, from drills on the field to quiet study in classes – all consumed by youthful drive and ambition that resonated with the spirit of the shinobi's way of life within the village. 

Sakoshi gestured toward the academy's different facilities, from the stocked scroll library to the training chambers and the meditative gardens where the students could meditate. He narrated the stories of the school's most prominent members, some of whom had become the most famous shinobi of their time. Through the visit to New Moon Academy, Sakoshi had offered the newcomers a view into the heart of Tsukigakure, where its energy was expended in raising its future heroes. 

However, it was more than an opportunity to get familiar with the buildings and gardens within the academy. Instead, it was Sakoshi weaving a background of the village's history, a coherent narrative that outlined the village's hopes, fears, and dreams. With each stop in the academy, he wasn't just a tour guide; he was a storyteller, embedding the newcomers into the very fabric of Tsukigakure.


After leaving the New Moon Academy, Sakoshi Kurosawa led the newcomers to their next destination, which was directly adjacent to the academy. They arrived at Bal's Library, an imposing yet inviting structure renowned within the village for its vast knowledge repository. The library, named after a revered figure in the village's history known for its wisdom and pursuit of knowledge, stood as a monument to its commitment to learning and preserving history.

As they entered, the group was immediately enveloped by the quiet majesty of the library. The interior was expansive, with high ceilings and rows upon rows of shelves that reached towards the sky, each one laden with scrolls and books. The air was thick with the scent of parchment and ink, a testament to the countless volumes that held the accumulated wisdom of generations.

Sakoshi guided the newcomers through the library, pointing out sections that catered to a wide range of interests and disciplines. There were areas dedicated to the history of the shinobi world, sections that contained detailed accounts of famous battles and treaties, and shelves devoted to the study of Jutsu, offering insights into the techniques and strategies that defined the art of the shinobi.

He also highlighted the library's resources on medicinal herbs and healing techniques, adjacent to texts on philosophy, ethics, and the social sciences, reflecting the village's holistic approach to education and growth. The library was not just a place for shinobi to refine their craft but a space where all villagers could expand their knowledge and understanding of the world.

Sakoshi emphasized the importance of Bal's Library as a center for learning and discovery, a place where students from the New Moon Academy often came to further their studies and where villagers of all ages sought answers and inspiration. The library's role in supporting the intellectual and cultural life of the village was unparalleled, fostering a community that valued wisdom, curiosity, and the pursuit of knowledge.

As the group explored the library, they were struck by the peaceful atmosphere and the sense of being surrounded by the thoughts and experiences of those who had come before. For the newcomers, the visit to Bal's Library was an introduction to the depth and breadth of the village's collective wisdom, an invitation to partake in the ongoing dialogue between past and present.

Leaving Bal's Library, the newcomers carried a sense of awe and a deeper appreciation for the village's reverence for knowledge. Sakoshi, in leading them through this temple of learning, had opened the door to the vast intellectual heritage of Tsukigakure, showcasing the village's dedication to the growth and enlightenment of its people.

Through this visit, Sakoshi familiarized the newcomers with another cornerstone of the village and woven into their tour a narrative of continuous learning and the power of knowledge, principles foundational to the community's identity and vision for the future.

As Sakoshi guided them through more of the village, the group reached a destination that he was less familiar with but was no less critical to the village's identity – Shinoda Springs. This site served as the training grounds for Tsukigakure, where the land's natural features interacted with the discipline needed to walk the shinobi path. The area was incredibly serene, with the sound of flowing water, and the relaxed ambiance of the springs offered only an oblique reference to the intense focus that the area demanded of its trainees. 

The natural springs were crystal clear and almost vibrated with energy, shrouded in lush greens and other flora. Dotted around the springs were giant statues, each representing a Shinobi of legend who had gone before. The statues were silent pillars of strength, with their stone expressions hinting at the dogged perseverance and intense power that'd been their hallmark. 

Sakoshi told the group of their significance, regurgitating tales enough to last a lifetime that'd encouraged the spirits of many a trainee as they toiled in the shadow of the sculpture that bore their eyes before them. The presence of these mythic statues of men amidst the literal natural beauty of the springs spoke to the village's reverence for the confluence of strength and gentleness of the martial and the spiritual. Sakoshi walked the group through the features of the training grounds, pointing out the pools one could meditate in, the forever-swelling streams that needed to be navigated with enthusiasm and grace, and the open fields for combat training. 

Despite his somewhat limited personal experiences here, Sakoshi revered this place. Shinoda Springs represented physicality, yes, but more than that, it was a conduit to the strength of spirit; a place where he walked from a boy to a man and where the verdant shadows the statues cast before him breathed stories of legends passed down through smoke and ages have long forgotten. 

As the group left Shinoda Springs in their wake, they brought with them not just a piece of history but a slice of the reverence and unbreakable spirit that burned deep and eternal in the hearts of the people of Tsukigakure. There was no question that, as he'd done with the others, Sakoshi had breathed that into them, ushering them through a sacred and ancient tradition that had stood the test of time.

Following the eye-opening trip to Shinoda Springs, Sakoshi Kurosawa invited the newcomers on a stroll through the village to the next stop, providing them with a complete change of place in the process. The team was bound to visit the "Dark Side," a renowned location in the village that the villagers frequented due to the unique atmosphere and outstanding food. In contrast to the natural ambiance of the springs or the town, Dark Side encompassed a different yet atmospheric and captivating environment, characterized by the gothic theme that the designers had taken to heart. 

When they arrived, the façade caught their attention, with dark and intricate ornamentation and a subtle light emanating from the location onto the street in subdued patches. The gothic architecture and decor, with its complex lines and gothic arches, invited them to the place that felt like a part of the past while still possessing an aura of mystery. Sakoshi quickly mentioned that the peculiarly designed place was part of the village's beloved eateries, as their hospitality was second to none, and the food was always exceptional. 

The owner, Daiki, was a revered figure in the village because of his cooking style and the ambiance he tried to create. Daiki, who cherished the gothic theme, not only decorated his surroundings in this style but also his dishes, transforming them into small artistic creations that tasted great and looked like works of art. 

As they stepped inside, the velvet tones further enveloped them with the gothic atmosphere. The venue's interior was decorated elegantly, with ambient light, elegance, and romantic motifs. Daiki was there, welcoming them with a broad smile and elegance one would attribute to a man of this nature. He displayed both style and warmth in his reception.

They were seated at a large table that allowed them to take in the whole ambiance of Dark Side. Daiki briefly shared the story behind the dark diner, discussing his dream of creating a dining experience beyond a good meal. Instead, he wanted a place where villagers could come together to celebrate, relax, and spoil themselves with rich food and great company. The food at Dark Side was equally as unique as its aesthetic; it encapsulated traditional flavors and innovation. 

While ordering, Sakoshi urged the others to try some of Daiki's dishes, promising them a taste journey similar to the village's meeting of tradition and innovation. It was a pastime experience. The mood at Dark Side was fascinating and somewhat paranormal. The food was lovable, with everything Daiki served on plates being a testament to his culinary skill and design, while the restaurant's gothic field provided fascination and pleasure. 

As they exited, the newcomers discussed how they valued the chance to visit a place so distinct. They knew it was another illustration that the village was a place of variety and had a vibrant life. From Sakoshi, their host's perspective, selecting Dark Side as part of the tour meant presenting them with another part of her dwelling place. It was an artistic restaurant where the cuisine and mood combined created a space for people's connection and joy. 

The decision to visit Dark Side was a happy one. The experience took a typical evening to new heights of luxury. In the village, one has an experience of life that goes from past and tradition across the process of life until one acknowledges the extent of people's genuine culture.

The newcomers' next visit was to a place that combined relaxation and cultural enrichment in an environment of exquisite beauty—the "Red Moon Resort." The hot springs were set in a peaceful resort designed so that both the body and spirit could relax and find harmony. The place was managed by Oyu, who deeply respected tradition and the island's natural beauty. In addition to the luxurious hot springs, the resort had a stage where plays and other cultural performances would be staged. 

Over the years, Oyu and the other villagers had developed the place into a sanctuary where the island's spirit and the people's shared heritage were celebrated. The visiting group noticed the steam that rose gently from the pools, created over time by the forces of nature and heated by the geothermic energy that the heat produced by the earth. At a distance, the walks could see the buildings whose structures were built along the lines of the land around them. They were not modifications but complementary sculptures made of wood and stones. 

As the newcomers gaped, wondering how people had sculpted the stones and timber, Sakoshi said the hot springs were sculpted by those who dwelt beneath the island. He said they believed, like the other villagers, that the hearts of the spiritual ones below shaped and purified the water to bless them.

Oyu greeted the group with hospitality that embodied the resort's promise of refreshment and welcome. After a polite exchange of greetings, the innkeeper-official asked if the newcomers would like a tour of the various hot springs, each with its waters and benefits. The tour also included the gardens, meditation areas, and a stage that served as the resort's centerpiece. The stage stood at the foot of the hot springs and behind the luxurious garden and served to host many acts concerning the island's deep heritage and the solidarity of the villagers' lives. Oyu specifically mentioned the performances ranged from traditional plays that narrated the lives of the deceased to modern-life stories that explored the lives and dreams of the people. 

The stage symbolized the commitment to the arts for the newcomers as they were well aware of the tradition promoted. After visiting the Red Moon Resort, the group thanked Oyu with lighter hearts and a profound appreciation for the village's remarkable skill in developing culture, nature, and innovation. Through his tour, Sakoshi led the group into a new place rich in history, personality, warmth, and depth of spirit. As the day set, a distinct feeling of a village that balanced the spiritual world of the dead with the vibrant beauty of its cultural life was left with the group.

After a refreshing trip to the Red Moon Resort, Sakoshi Kurosawa took the newcomers to another cornerstone of the village's cultural fabric, the Kurosawa Home for Culture and Art. Located in the village's heart, this culture center embodied the community's dedication to preserving and honoring its cultural legacy and artistic expression. 

Run by Ren Kurosawa, the Hokage's Deputy, the center was more than just a venue where the arts were exposed; they constituted an intrinsic part of villagers' daily routine. Sakoshi approached, and the group saw the magnificent design of the Kurosawa Home for Culture and Art, thoroughly imbued with the community's traditional values and, at the same time, open to innovation and creativity. 

Although she had been here multiple times before, she did share the significance of this place with the group. This is where the village's diverse cultural life came together, manifesting itself through arts, music, storytelling, and craftsmanship. Within its walls, one could see artists and musicians, crafters and performers; the locals came together, sharing their cultural backgrounds. 

The center was home to various spaces, providing room for different expressions of the arts. There were galleries filled with local artists' creations, resonating with the beauty of the village and its surroundings in a varied color scheme. Performers' halls hosted music recitals, dance scenes, and short theatrical pieces featuring the dynamic picture of villagers' musical and artistic traditions. 

Finally, there were classrooms, inviting the young and the young at heart to engage in arts and crafts, traditional and contemporary. Sakoshi mentioned how the Kurosawa Home for Culture and Art was central to developing the village's cultural life, noting how many artistic talents emerged and how many projects were created here. This indeed testified to the significance of the center, demonstrating villagers' commitment to arts and the unity of cultural life. 

The culture center visit was particularly impactful for the newcomers as it helped them comprehend the depth of the village's commitment to the arts. They saw how the center stood as a preserver of the villagers' cultural heritage and as a space where it thrived and grew. They could feel the energy coming from the center's walls, a mix of creative spirits and communal appreciation. 

When the center was left behind, the group gained insights into the village's cultural layer and the art ecosystem that kept it alive and thriving. Through Sakoshi's guidance, they knew the town was a natural paradise and an art haven, cherishing the arts and facilitating artists.

And with that, completing the in-depth tour of Tsukigakure, Sakoshi Kurosawa took the group of newcomers to the final point of their introduction to the village – to the gates. In front of the newcomers stood the immense and grand barriers of the town, allowing Sakoshi to explain the real meaning of the physical barriers – a symbol of resilience and safety of a single place in the world. Sprawling in front of the people was the monument of the gates, physical and tall, marking the edge of the village and the border between the dangers of the world and the safety of its home. 

Sakoshi showed them the first strategy of the gates – to serve as the first line of defense for the village, demonstrating the planning and vigilance of Tsukians. The gates were built to maximize their implications – to amplify the defense attributes of the town and the threat-stopping capacity while simultaneously restraining the balance with controlled information and people flow. After that, Sakoshi told the participants about the history of the gates that brought safety and defense to these lands – he spoke of the past encounters and the safety these walls provided. He spoke of the people who stood guard of the village 24/7, their eyes looking out into the dark and bodies and spirits unwavering. 

Sakoshi was one of these people who not only protected the village space but also the peace and tranquility embodied in that space. Most importantly, the gates signified more than just defense—they signified that the people of these lands were linked together to defend their peoples and places. Sakoshi told them that everyone was a Tsukian in spirit and defense, working together in different areas to make this village safe and prosperous. 

The gates symbolized the village's unity and force, and every person played a small role in protecting it. For the young people finally getting the point of the town, the gates provided another confirmation—a confirmation that dangers lurked outside its borders. Still, Tsukigakure's responses and defenses were equal to its dangers. 

Thus, as the tour ended, the people finally grasped the concept of Tsukigakure, looking at the big gates. Having seen the village's art, culture, knowledge, and defenses, the people were ready to step within the gates as the guards. Sakoshi Kurosawa showed them the sights and sounds of Tsukigakure and, together with them, told the story of the village—and from today on, wrote them into the narrative of the village's defiance and creativity.

It had been a long day, and as Sakoshi Kurosawa finished his usual duties as a tour guide, the weight of the experiences of the past hours sat comfortably on his shoulders. The day was on the wane, and the setting sun was casting long shadows across the streets of Tsukigakure, bathing them in warm light. In the twilight, the villages were repainted – the very streets foreign to the newcomers only hours prior suddenly looked beautiful in their end-of-day attire, promising peaceful sleep and rejuvenation from the passing day’s toils. Sakoshi found himself at the doors of Dark Side once again. 

The establishment was not just a culinary achievement but a piece of art. It was as much a place to nourish one’s body as it was to find solace from the world's troubles, of which there were many in the life of a shinobi. The dim lights welcomed him just as warmly, and the meticulously arranged decoration was a world away from the village streets. 

Sakoshi drew out a quiet table and allowed himself to take in the surreal surroundings that Dark Side provided. The quiet talking melded serenely with the peaceful music and the clinking of China. A nod of recognition from Daiki, the establishment's owner, was a silent thank you from a fellow village citizen for the serene space.

Placing his order, Sakoshi found the moment to make sense of the day—the places seen, the tales spun, the ties cultivated. He accomplished a job he undertook temporarily throughout his time as a guide, which helped him rediscover the village he had long called home through the vision of others on their first day. 

Despite dining alone, Sakoshi was not alone; the town’s collective soul surrounded him, comprised of numerous diners at Dark Side and various combinations. Like Tsukigakure, the restaurant was a meeting place where multiple trajectories intersected, and tales and existences mingled, weaving a complicated layout of a single state. As Sakoshi neared the end of his meal and prepared to leave, the sun had fallen on the land. 

The streets outside were quiet, and the daytime enthusiasm was replaced by nighttime placidity. Sakoshi returned to Ren’s dwelling, taking the day's experiences with him. He understood that even though he had guided the outsiders, he had rediscovered himself and parts of the village. On returning to his dwelling, his adventure from sunrise to sundown was circular and done. 

Sakoshi had moved over the physical and spiritual landscapes of Tsukigakure as a shinobi and protector, and his path reaffirmed everything he stood for. Throughout the home’s peace, Sakoshi finally discovered peace, glad to face whatever got in his path over the approaching days, fortified by the unity and power of the people he defended.

As Sakoshi settled more comfortably into the bed, he claimed that the day's choices were performed in his thoughts in his house. He thought of the newer citizens he had guided, weaving him through the village’s breathing tapestry of life and its people. A small but brilliant part of his mind settled on this tapestry—the capacity to see inside their minds and feel their emotions intimately through his contact with them. His capability to probe the minds of others was a responsibility he addressed seriously. 

It was not solely to confirm actual plays of fantasies and possibilities utilizing this influence. It was for protection. For security. To better serve the people by detecting endangerment or a perception of need not uttered, whether to sift through information left silent or to practice to explain the physique language of others. Today, however, the insight had not lingered, confined to discourse and seeing and hearing what was meant to share. It added to his analysis of the new people he had greeted. 

He pondered silently on these facts, allowing the nighttime tranquility to wash over him. Each point he passed was an origin of expectations, terrors, dreams, provisions, and desires. However, he had to pass this to be a respectful servant, ensuring the community’s calmness with the certified familiarity its residents might try to retain covertly. 

The hush of the house seemed silent and peaceful amidst the sounds of the other’s doings, which barely reached him as town watch and emotional protectors of the serene existence enjoyed from mood switched beaten the barrier. He was ready for more because they would all be willing to despite the village being a pursuit. 

Instead of worrying about tomorrow’s strain, he relaxed fully, focusing on the now. Headache, press, and estimable weariness agreed with his life. Orderliness and revitalization were on offer in life in this hush of darkness. Sleep arrived to him. Attracted and mature creation slumber, he perceived as fostered by his decisions and unaware of his pick for the tomorrow, where the sun would flash once more. The village breathed his gratitude to one of its kind for its succeeding protection.

The budding light of a fresh morning filtered through the window, giving the room an inviting and familiar glow. The space was offered to Sakoshi Kurosawa for his efforts and achievements. Though the morning was young and had just begun, the filtered rays of dawn light already proposed another day in Tsukigakure. 

Sakoshi’s day began like his life had been leading up to this point, with careful deliberateness and mindful attention to his actions. Waking up, preparing himself for the day, and situating his consciousness within his body and the small universe of his dwelling was a short but grounding practice he followed to start each day the right way. Leaving his house as a quiet sanctuary, Sakoshi descended back into the life-giving grounds of the bright and promising village. 

The village’s streets were already alive with regular patrons and their average daily chores, coming and going as the bustling echoes of life filled the gaps in between. Before his activities consumed his will and desire for peaceful reflection, Sakoshi traveled across the village to the Dark Side. 

This strange and foreboding gothic restaurant had become his new favorite. In the dramatic yet calming light of his morning departure, the moody tones of the Dark Side were refreshing. The place's usual grim and imposing décor offered respite from another bright and promising day. Stepping through the front door brought the entire restaurant to life, a completely different universe from his morning routine.

Selecting a table as far away from others as possible, Sakoshi embraced the solitude of the morning. The food on the Dark Side menu was a genuine reflection of Daiki’s work, and each plate was as much a visual experience as it was an experience for the taste buds. 

Sakoshi ordered his plate and quickly anticipated the taste ahead of him. He would reflect on his schedule for the day, the people he was about to meet, and the idea that a life of duty mirrored a mission thread running through his existence. Dark Side’s unique setting provided the perfect backdrop among the admired complexity and embrace of the simple provision of life. As Sakoshi lingered on the last piece of the food in front of him, he mentally steeled himself and embraced the reality of the new day. 

There was a sense of quietness in the air, and the space he was occupying entirely gave Sakoshi the uninterrupted isolation to accumulate his thought process. He would soon be heading into the village again, where Tsukigakure would release him from his grasp and go about his everyday life, embracing the peace and reflection of this morning. Sakoshi Kurosawa would continue to live a life of effort, pacing the long and impossible balance between duty and meditation, assisted by the morning placidity of Tsukigakure itself.

With that tranquil start, the rest of Sakoshi Kurosawa’s day was passed – from the morning routine to the relatively silent breakfast at Dark Side. Before he could entirely give in to the calmness, the telepathic message from Ren snapped Sakoshi back to reality; he closed his eyes and held a sigh while his body involuntarily made a shrug – all silent acknowledgments of what this message meant. It simply said there was work to be done, and he was needed at the Kage Tower. Indeed, the Kage Tower, without which the village could not be governed, entrusted funds managed, or any strategic decisions be made. The thoughts were swept aside as the shinobi moved out of his room. 

He approached the tower through a path he had traveled countless times, and most of the time, Sakoshi’s mindscape was assaulted with the oppressive feelings of responsibility and anticipation of the nature of the work ahead. The large tower in front of him was an imposing structure that loomed over him daily, an eloquent reminder of what was required to maintain vigil over the village. But the sight also spurred Sakoshi onwards – for the likes of Ren would not trust a shinobi if they did not believe in their abilities or the vital role they played in the village’s protective lifestyle. But these calls to action were not uncommon – he was a shinobi and a protector. And so his journey to the Kage Tower took relatively little time, and the shinobi arrived where he was meant to be. Deputy Kage Ren awaited him with an expression of urgency. The bravado dropped slightly, “Good morning, Sakoshi. Today, our mission is to…” – and one was always quickly informed about the nature of the day’s upcoming actions.

For Sakoshi, each mission he completed was another string added to the fabric of his duties to the service of Tsukigakure. A string strengthened by a bond that spanned years of shared wins and losses – a string that thus interwove from years of mutual battle. The string between him and Ren was the string of professionalism, but it combined with the string of companionship. This tapestry settled on his shoulders. Though it did, Sakoshi wore it with calm confidence that this mission would be completed like the many others in the past. There was much skill this path would want from him, but as a man who had dedicated his life to his village, it was a job he would perform with ease. 

Exiting the Kage’s tower, he walked down the stairs, knowing that he stepped from where he once was and now took another role. The ever-changing role reminded him of his instability – challenges thrown before him, duties that had to be ardently executed for his vigilance, and what his soul craved to administer. He walked, and in his path, he carried Tsukigakure. This village was not based solely on the shinobi’s strength but on the strength of the heart, wisdom, and united spirit of all the people therein – even the one who now walked before his next destination, guardian only of the village.

Upon arriving at the Kage Tower and being informed by Ren, Sakoshi Kurosawa receives an assignment that is distant from the usual responsibilities of a shinobi at his level regarding mission types. It did not concern the need to protect or spy on the village but was focused on the well-being of the citizens and the preservation of the environment. Indeed, the village’s landfill had developed a problem that required a joint effort to maintain and gather all the garbage that formed throughout the day due to people’s regular repetitive activities. This type of mission, rooted in the practical and urgent need to keep the village clean and sustainable, reminded Sakoshi of the many vectors of duties that his conditions encompassed. It also sheds light on the need for every element of the village ecosystem to function since no man, including a warrior or a shinobi, stands truly above the need to clean the streets. 

Sakoshi understood these matters solemnly because the need for hands to gather the garbage was a need that spoke to every villager who had to care for the shared home. It was a symbol of Sakoshi’s leadership by example that he saw a need to spend an hour or two helping his neighbors to clean up. As he went to gather the others, Sakoshi saw well how the shinobi worked next to commoners. They all began cleaning and organizing the problem at the landfill, collecting the garbage, and taking steps to manage this issue in the village properly. This, too, fought the cause of the particular problem and sowed the seeds of unity and purpose between the villagers.

The task at the landfill, however seemingly unrelated to what a shinobi ought to do, was, in reality, the embodiment of the values Tsukigakure was determined by – respect for the land the village was built on, the well-being of the community and the understanding that all actions, no matter how small, mattered for the future of the town. Much like the other villagers, Sakoshi helped clean up the landfill because his commitment to the community was more significant than the traditional role of the shinobi should have allowed him to do. 

As the day ended and the landfill's problem was successfully resolved due to the combined efforts of Sakoshi and the villagers, the community had a true sense of accomplishment and pride. The village now allowed people to come in order because the joint cleaning round was a task of apparent cooperation and a clear environmental duty that went together with the life of the village. The mission as the landfill was once more for Sakoshi Kurosawa to prove the varied power of the tasks that his title was defined by and the joy of fulfilling any of them when necessary. The day’s work was challenging, of course, but more than that, it was sustained knowledge that everything he did for the greater good of Tsukigakure could involve any member of the society.

Having performed a day’s worth of acts of communal benefit for the village that went beyond the typical functions of a shinobi, Sakoshi Kurosawa was drawn again to Dark Side for dinner. Though requiring far more brawn than his more common duties, the work at the landfill had given the shinobi a sensation of earthed satisfaction. He wished to finish the day with an element of personal reward, which was why he picked Dark Side – not only for its unique experience but also for its food quality. As the man entered the gothic-themed eatery, the ambiance swallowed him whole after the calm of the village’s evening hours. The varied dimness of lighting, decor, and soft ambient tune created the perfect spot to unwind after his work. 

Sakoshi chose his usual isolated seat at the back of the establishment and picked up the menu, although he already knew which culinary wonder he would have that night. The filet mignon with asparagus and fries warmed his mouth as he prepared for the meal cooked under Daiki’s skilled attention. The filet’s tenderness and juiciness offered a decadent consumption feel. It would be served with crisp, fresh asparagus and the simple pleasure of well-cooked fries. The accurate tallies of a lengthy day’s work at an eatery worthy of his time. As he waited for his supper, Sakoshi spared a thought for the day. His many duties – as an instructor and environmental conservator – testified to his commitment to Tsukigakure. It reminded him that being a shinobi involved more than just being a warrior; it needed all the warriors who tried to assist; however, it was necessary.

Savoring the final moments before his dinner arrived, Sakoshi had to admit that they were well worth the wait; every sip of the rice wine prepared him for what was to come, and every minute of respite offered through the open window felt like an eternity of comfort in the evening air. As the waiter brought out his meal, there is no way to describe how incredible the filet mignon smelled and looked on Sakoshi’s plate; as each bite melted away, simultaneously a testament to the cook’s skill in preparation, the asparagus’s fresh contrast, and the garnish of the fries, their familiarity felt was fulfilling. And it was nourishing – however, not just for the body; Sakoshi considered food a reward for the soul, and as much as it glorified work’s achievements, it was surrender to the culinary arts delights. 

When dining at Terravein, he could not be more grateful for the village’s expansive culinary powers and moments to relish like this one – where one could find excellent foodstuff and relax. He knew this balance between a meaningful occupation and a break was vital to his life as a shinobi dedicated to serving his community. With dinner’s end comes time to venture into the new night – back to the Opennight to prepare for rest and reflection; tomorrow calls for more work. Sakoshi understood that – he knew the pattern of duty, community, and personal time of reflection that drove his life cycle and understood that that was how he would serve his role in the village as a protector.

Full and satisfied after his meal at Dark Side, Sakoshi Kurosawa returned home, the streets of Tsukigakure brief and reflective. The day, lush with beauty and darkness in turn, duty and community service peppered with short, rare moments of personal indulgence and reflection upon his dutiful service, he had come to a close. Now, he would eat in the comfort of his abode, where he might recharge and rest to the end of another day of responsibility on the morrow. His domicile's unassuming and unpretentious confines were welcoming, and he quickly granted himself liberty within. The gentle reprieve of house-securing, retiring, and going to bed was anything but overlooked by the observant eyes of Sakoshi. 

WC: 8105
TWC: 8105
EXIT

Claims:
Completion of 4 C rank missions
+32k Ryo
+160 AP
Doubled from Beloved Presence

WC Claims:
In progress due to a technique being just about being approved.

TWC: 8105
WC Claims:
Swapping 50 stats using 5000 words out of the total to have Chakra go to 150 and Vigor go to 100.

Using 3105 words for adding 62 AP while also training a technique.

+7500 towards learning and double mastering for no handseals for Hiden: Mind Reading (Complete for learning and mastering)
+605 words towards Hakudatsu [v7] (605/1750)