Party Precautions [P.IO]

Asuka would stifle a giggle as Zo chastised the teens for being late and she was happy to hear they took his jest as such, seemingly unbothered by his comment. The group then would follow the women towards a luxurious clothing store. Posting up on the other side of the door as Zokuro, Asuka happily answered his inquiry after thinking it over for a moment. Afterward, she proposed the question back to him. Before answering, he offered her a bit of advice, and Asuka nodded in agreement.

Admittedly she felt conflicted about what she truly wanted and her dreams. Most of her current aspirations and ambitions were due to some role others needed her to play a part in. Her parents wished to give her the bakery someday, though she was unsure if running a business was really her thing. She had only started learning the medical arts to help Akira, though now that he was gone she found herself now too involved with the hospital to simply quit her duties. From a young age, she had dreamed of joining the village formally and helping the community where she could, but she found herself too terrified to partake in the chunin exams.

Though her mind swarmed with thoughts, her expression remained neutral with a soft smile as she listened to Zo. He’d mention that he was primarily a worker a while back, doing things like farming, building, and tinkering. He didn’t seem that much older than Asuka, so she wondered just how long ago. However, she decided it was best to not press the topic and instead shifted her attention to the others in the group. After proposing the same question to them, she’d listen as Travin spoke up first. He explained that he simply had a gift and decided to use it, which Asuka respected. If she had started her training at his age, she would have been significantly stronger by now but unfortunately, other things had beckoned her attention.

Jinroku spoke up next, mentioning that he had been led there by his passions. Asuka related to him, seeing as that’s currently why she was pursuing this path. Akira had suggested doing some easy jobs together, and that snowballed into her now feeling obligated to continue tending to village duties. She knew her time was better spent at the hospital, tending to the sick or wounded within Kumogakure but instead, she was out acting as an escort for some rich people.

Before she could speak, Travin would momentarily rummage around in his pocket before pulling out what looked to be some hard candies. Though she was sure the candy and scone wouldn’t mix, Auska had a soft spot for sweet things. After plucking a blue one from his palm, she’d address Jinroku and Travin once more.

”I’m excited to see how you both progress! Maybe if everything works out tonight at the party, we could all pick up some more work together in the future.” Her gaze would shift to look at Zo before continuing happily. ”I’m sure you have others who would love to have you join them, but I’d like to extend the invitation to you as well. I’d be more than delighted to have somebody as seemingly experienced as you as a partner.”

Just from being able to see his chakra network, Asuka could tell he quite the shinobi though that isn’t why she asked him to work with her more. He had a great personality and seemed to be rather intelligent so she thought the two of them would get along swimmingly. As for why she asked Jinroku and Travin, well their aspirations reminded her of her friends when they were young. Akira and Zansu had both started their training before they were teens, but never got a formal teaching so they progressed quite slowly. Asuka thought she could help the two young men at least train a bit more and do some work around the village if nothing else.

Soon the women would exit the shop, only to bark instructions at the group once more. Asuka simply bowed towards them and walked roughly 5 meters behind them with her Byakugan still activated. Travin walked a bit in front of her with what she assumed to be a dojutsu activated. She hadn’t seen it before and wondered if it worked similarly to hers. If Zokuro walked beside her, Asuka would maintain a pleasant conversation as they moved towards the estate. Thankfully, without any issues, they made it to the home and were greeted by a handful of guards who escorted them to a guest house. Dropping her Byakugan, she’d follow the group quietly.

Upon entering the guest house they were instructed by some of the workers to get changed into whatever clothing they wished for the party. Should the others need it, there was an appropriate attire to change into but thankfully Asuka had some clothes sent by a few days prior. Finding a private place to change, she’d leave the group. After roughly 30 minutes, she’d return to the group, looking quite differently than before. Now adorned in a dress that clung tightly to her waist and torso, Asuka would stand a bit sheepishly among the group.

The dress itself had a sweetheart neckline that exposed her shoulders and collarbones. The color was black like the night sky with various golden stars embroidered around the base, waistline, and torso. Poofing out at the waist slightly, the front of it stopped roughly halfway down her thighs and the back hit her ankles as she moved. As she walked, the rhythmic sound of high heels clicking across the floor could be heard along with the light jingling of golden jewlery. Some strands of her snow-white hair had been braided and pulled into a loose ponytail that resembled a criclet. The rest of her hair remained straight and laid gently over her back and shoulders. Though she was never one for make up, she put a bit of mascara on and a pink lip gloss as final touches.

She felt like a fish out of water dressed in such a way and admittedly looked as if she felt a bit awkward though she attempted to hide her embarrassment. Once the others were finished, or if they were already done upon her arrival Asuka would offer them a slight wave as she rejoined them.

WC: 1072
Total WC: 3474

Zokuro quietly declined a jolly rancher from Travin as he had already fulfilled his sweet tooth for the morning. He'd subsequently listen attentively to the short explanations from Travin and Jinroku, and carry about his actions as previously described. What was particularly interesting was that Travin chose to display his Sharingan, likely in an attempt to survey the area. Though at this point there truly didn't see to be any danger. This information was notable to the Gorilla, as now he was aware of two of his three companions' lineages. The only question was what clan did Jinroku hail from?

Later on the invitation from Asuka to collaborate more as a fully functioning team was comforting. In the past Zokuro had typically been the head of these types of teams, at least for over a decade, so the thought of working as colleagues....as genin, was interesting. And although he was never one to crave a promotion, after working for so many years in servitude to the Land of Lightning, it admittedly did feel like a stain upon his resume to be reduced from Jounin to Genin. Nevertheless his better judgement told him that this would eventually be resolved, and it wasn't anything to fret over. He'd flash a subtle expression of affirmation, "Seems fitting to me."

And his willingness would be mirrored by his otherwise nonchalant body language as he positioned himself to trail at the rear of the pack, where Asuka would join him. Their walk continued onward for about 10 minutes, taking them into a wealthy district within Kumogakure. It was located on a mountain range, just west of the center island. And it had been situated adjacent to a series of cliffs. It offered a breathtaking view of the nearby mountains and was riddled with ornate buildings of intricate design. Zokuro had been in this area a few times in the past, working security missions for the high end bidders. But it was a stark contrast from the humble homestead which he lived in. Where his home was modest and coupled with farmland, this area was grand and boasted mansions which blended Kumogakure architecture with modernity. Each home they passed seem to have large courtyards, water fountains, gardens, and imported trees. And even the streets they walked upon were high quality, evident by the smooth paved stones with lanterns on each side of it to provide visibility during evening times.

It all felt rather snobby to him, but he held his tongue. And eventually they'd arrive at a home furthest down the street, located at the center of a cul de sac. It had its own private gate, which the women let the party through, and a long walkway leading to the illustrious home. It was made of white stone, with some wooden panels, and potent with gold accents. Next to it was a smaller home of similar design, presumably the guest house. The women would motion the group to that home, and then proceed inside the main building to tend to their last minute party set up. The guards would take over from here, leading the party of four to the guest house where the workers would offer whatever hospitality the team needed. Asuka seemed to take them up on it, departing from the group to get dressed. Zokuro however would decline, and simply asked to be let into the backyard for a smoke. With some looks of judgement, they'd begrudgingly agree. And now outside, he'd simply light his cigarette and make it last. Whilst smoking, he'd analyze the main house. It seemed to have only a single rear entrance but numerous windows which were cracked open for airflow. He'd sigh somewhat, as there were numerous entryways for a potential assailant to enter via. Nevertheless he'd conclude his cigarette, and upon returning inside he'd be met by a single worker who insisted that at a minimum he remove his white haori. Reluctantly he'd comply by placing his haori on a rack in the corner of the room, so now his attire was simply his high collared black shirt and loose pants of identical tone. His accessories of a sash, necklace, and earrings actually upscaled his attire which was deemed suitable for a guest of a wealthy party.

Now dressed for the part, he'd meet back up with the rest of the team in the living room of the guest house, taking notice of each of their new outfits. Asuka's was the most striking, as it complimented her quite well and seemed to convey an aura of confidence which the women didn't display naturally. She still appeared shy, and reserved. He'd also observe the attires of Travin and Jinroku, picking up on any subtle notes about them as well. In an attempt to instill confidence in the team, Zo would simply say, "You all look great. I hope you're more of party people than I am....But anyway, I was able to take a better look at the vulnerabilities of the house. Each wing of it seems to have anywhere between four to eight windows. Additionally there's an open doorway at the rear of the house. Keep this all in mind, as they could serve as entry points for unwelcomed guests. But my suspicion is that any potential assailant may disguise themselves to blend in, rather than forcing themselves into the party."

He'd pause and refrain, exchanging a look upon each individual. "What have you all learned? And more importantly, are you guys ready? It seems like the party will start soon."

WC = 924. TWC = 3925

"Thank you Travin, if that is the case I suggest you come with me and be my eyes."

Assuming Travin was willing to accompany him, Zokuro would aim to stick with him. And shortly after this dialogue concluded, the staff of the guest house would approach the group and inform them that the party was beginning. Resultantly, Zokuro would look towards Travin and offer him a nod of solidarity. 

"Let's go."

The pair would break out from the guest house, and head towards the main courtyard outside the entrance to the house. By this time there was a flock of the upper class gathering in a somewhat organized line. They were all awaiting entry to the grand party, dressed in their most endowing clothing. Luxurious, royal, noble...and pretentious. As much as Zo hated this type of scene, he had to admit...they got that shit on. He himself, did not have that shit on. Instead his black clothing allowing him to just blend into the background. It was his little, calm fit. But it would get the job done. No one seemed to look at him in peculiarity for sticking out. Perhaps his jewelry brought some "class" to his outfit. 

He and Travin would stand in the line as it steadily snaked its way towards the front door. Along the way, Zokuro would look to discern any potential threats out from the crowd. His naked eye detected nothing. So he turned his attention to Travin, with his hands tucked into his pocket, and in a lowered tone would ask "See anything?"

Depending on the Uchiha's response, Zokuro would absorb that knowledge accordingly. Eventually they'd make their way to the front of the line, check in, and be admitted into the party. Assuming Travin indeed highlighted a potential threats, then Zokuro would look to pursue them from a distance. And if Travin did not, Zokuro would independently pick up on a keen observation from one woman. She bore a black dress, similar style to Asuka's, and was not mingling with a single soul. Instead she stood off to the side near the concessions, but not grabbing a plate. To an unsuspecting patron, she would just seem indecisive about eating. But to a trained shinobi, they'd be able to detect an attempted chakra suppression with mannerisms unbefitting of a party guest. And in the purse she bore on her shoulder, there appeared to be the outline of a rather bulky bottle. The Gorilla inferred this bottle to be a poison of sorts, and given her proximity to the food and drinks, it was likely she was attempting to poison the food.

"That woman, I believe she is our target...Poison seems to be her angle." Zo would say calmly to Travin, as the pair stood roughly 10 meters from the woman. When the woman would turn towards the concession, with her back facing Zokuro, he'd close the distance on her. And once within just a meter of the one, he'd rapidly perform the hand seals for Temporary Paralysis with one of the hands stuffed in his pocket. The motion was so quick, she had no time to react, nor did she have the strength to resist. And so she'd freeze in place, with Zokuro close enough to stick his hand into her clutch and retrieve the bottle which indeed was poison. The entire sequence was subtle, not drawing any attention to the actions from any of the partygoers. Uninterested in her motives, Zokuro would not relinquish the paralysis which also would not allow the woman to move her mouth to speak. Assuming Travin was nearby, Zo would speak to him. "Can you cause a distraction of sorts while I apprehend this woman?"

And if he would, Zokuro would wait until the Uchiha garnered the attention of the party. When everyone's backs were turned, Zokuro would deliver a swift blow from the palm of his hand towards the woman's temple, instantly rendering her unconscious. He'd relinquish the hold of Temporary Paralysis, catch her body, and carry it outside. He'd continue until he reached the courtyard, where he'd perform the hand seals to Debuff Bolt and inflict it on the woman, reducing her Chakra and Vigor while she remained unconscious. By this time, the guards of the house would come over, apprehend the quelled threat, and await the village's authorities to take custody of her. Zokuro however, already outside of the party, had no desire to stay any longer now that his job was finished. And so, he'd depart from the premises in true Irish Exit fashion.

- Exit -
WC = 761. TWC = 4686

WC Claims:
- Memorizing Travin, Asuka, and Jinroku's signatures
- 1125 to take Burning Ash from B to A
- 750 to take Temporary Paralysis from B to A
- 2811 to Forbidden Sealing Art: Heavenly Prison (2811/3000)

Mission Claims:
- 10000 Ryo
- 50 AP

Zokuro wrote:

- Exit -
WC = 761. TWC = 4686

WC Claims:
- Memorizing Travin, Asuka, and Jinroku's signatures
- 1125 to take Burning Ash from B to A
- 750 to take Temporary Paralysis from B to A
- 2811 to Forbidden Sealing Art: Heavenly Prison (2811/3000)

Mission Claims:
- 10000 Ryo
- 50 AP

Approved

Travin Iburi wrote:

WC-708 TWC-3,073
Exit

claiming 30 stats all to vigor new total 55

10k Ryo
50 AP

750 WC copying Temporary Paralysis B rank from Zo

1,500 WC to Glare
500 WC to Mist Servant Technique

Approved!

Happy to her companions cleaned up quite well, Asuka would simply listen as Zo complimented them all before taking charge once more. He pointed out a few points of entry to keep in mind as they moved throughout the party. Asuka would nod in agreeance as he explained that he believed that any would-be assailants would more than likely try to blend in instead of breaking in. As he asked if they had gotten any other information, Asuka slinked back slightly. Admittedly she was quite busy getting dressed and hadn’t been on the lookout for too much information.

Thankfully Travin spoke up, mentioning that most of the people attending were civillians with little to no chakra so it’d be easy for him and Asuka to identify any troublemakers if their chakra flared. He then would suggest breaking up into teams, and Zo seemed to agree with him so she figured it was best to go along with it. Looking to Jinroku, Asuka would offer him a look of reassurance as the group began to split. Before leaving the guest house, she’d grab a black masquerade mask that was just big enough to cover the bulging veins created by activating her Byakugan.

She’d linger for a moment, allowing Travin and Zo to take the lead. Asuka figured it was best to stagger their entrance just in case something should happen on the estate grounds and not in the building itself. After a few minutes, she’d beckon Jinroku to follow her out of the building, though before she left, she’d place the mask on and activate her byakugan. The line had grown quite long by the time they had joined it, so it took a while for them to actually enter the building. While they waited, Asuka spent most of her time scanning her surroundings and chatting with Jinroku or other attendees in line near her.

After some time passed, they made their way to the front and easily was allowed in. Her eyes widened slightly as she looked at the gorgeous decorations, stunning chandeliers, and aromatic foods. She was sure some of the vases on display were worth more than her home, so she tried her best to stay away from anything too expensive. Asuka had always been clumsy and she didn’t need to be in debt to some rich family for breaking an heirloom or something. After some time passed a woman in a similar dress to Asuka caught her eye.

With her byakugan, she was easily able to detect the odd fluctuations in her chakra due to the woman's horrific attempt at suppression. Thankfully though it seemed as if Zo and Travin noticed her as well. Asuka watched the next few moments unfold but didn’t move to interfere since it looked like her companions had it handled. After she had been taken out of the building, Asuka would remain diligent for the rest of the evening. She spent most of her time by Jinroku’s side if he remained with her, though they were off to the side so they didn’t call attention to themselves.

Thankfully the rest of the night went off without a hitch and before long Asuka found herself in the guest house once more. She’d take the time to change back into her normal attire before saying goodbye to whoever remained and leaving. Making her way back to her home once more, Asuka found her walking the quite streets of Kumogakure alone yet again.

(EXIT)

WC: 578
Total WC: 4052
Mission Rewards: Shopping Spree Supervisor 4000 Ryo / 20 AP - Party Security 6000 Ryo / 30 AP
Doubled to Beloved Presence: 8,000 Ryo / 40 AP -12,000 Ryo / 60 AP
Total: 20,000 Ryo  / 100 AP

Claims: Max stat discount
1313/1313 Cleansing Aura
1875/1875 Gentle Fist Barrage
864/1125 Acrobatic Recovery

Asuka Hyuuga wrote:

(EXIT)

WC: 578
Total WC: 4052
Mission Rewards: Shopping Spree Supervisor 4000 Ryo / 20 AP - Party Security 6000 Ryo / 30 AP
Doubled to Beloved Presence: 8,000 Ryo / 40 AP -12,000 Ryo / 60 AP
Total: 20,000 Ryo  / 100 AP

Claims: Max stat discount
1313/1313 Cleansing Aura
1875/1875 Gentle Fist Barrage
864/1125 Acrobatic Recovery

Approved