Autumn Event, Tuski Style

Mission Details:

The village was in a state of optimalitic anxiety, due to the recent invasion. Much was destroyed, some beyond repair. These were troubled times indeed, not for the faint of heart or the somvee spoonwd who have needed needed before in their lives. These testing times proved just how fickle life can be, and that all should appreicate what little they have. However, the silver lining to it all tool the form of a mini festival; a bread and circus tactic to help soothe a distract the masses from the violent errie infamous day the portals manifested from above. The only problem, was that it took two to tango in this particular dance. Although the village higher ups arranged this to happen, despite the admin building destroyed, it required some willingness of the many citizens to get ahead of the this and look towards the future.

A thick veil of grey smoke was pushed out after taking a long pull from one of the many pre rolls within the MaDKat‘s… arsenal? He leaned against the wall, of one of the few still intact market and supply stores. His eyes scaned the area, taking note of the festivities. Huge Posters and gawdy decorations of all shapes and sizes was littered all around what was left of the village. He stood there, watching the moon people tryin to act like none of this happened, when indeed it very much did happen. Hell, Katsuragi risked his own hide defending the village. And all he got, was his doing swept right under the wrong. He felt like he needed to say something, or get something atleast? A statue here or there…

Katsuragi's attire consists of a Yakuta black leather jacket, altered to that of a vest. The inner workings still functional with no hindrance. Underneath his vest, he wears a navy blue hoodie. His belt is black leather, designer's choice, with an overlapping LV emblem as a buckle. Attached to the right side of his belt, a knife holster to which Bushranger(An ANT knife) rested in. The locking strapped to keep it in the holster was buttoned in, although easily retrievable with a willful draw.

His shoes were bright in color, the Dreadful Oni SBs. His pouches are covered by his hoodie, but are still accessible with ease. His pants being that of a fresh pair of black stretch jeans with ankle zippers located on the lower inside section of the pants. His hair, still vivid, was a solid dark purple. His hair in contrast with his pale skin, however, his arms torso and hands bore a mural of mostly assorted prison tattoos; all black ink in color. His most notable tattoo, aside from his spiderweb tattoos that indicate that he has served time in Pelican Island, was his Jashinist Symbol that is stamped on the right side of his neck. He himself stood at a height of 6'2 feet with a thin frame. His other tools and such were also assorted evenly along his attire, given no hint to their whereabouts yet allowed him easy access with a little bit of technique due to his skill with the hidden arms technique.

After taking yet another long pull from his pre roll, he puts it out and waltz into the market.

He couldn’t explain his reasoning for being in front of the market, perhaps something ethereal maybe? All he could tell you, was that he was pulled here through the strings of fate. Plus, where he was standing was perfect for shade due to the awning.

Immediately, the shop owner rushes to him. His figure was questionable, walking probable cause at this point, due to his leafy green aroma teaming from his body. “Why are you, man who destroy main st!”, a reference to the invasion. It wasnt entirely his fault, he was chased by a hungry demon hell hound. “Maaaan, get back! Wait, what’s that?”, the two glare over towards an old beaten up ordinate lantern of truth. He had to know what possible national treasure was this? There he stood, now in the middle of the store, being chastised by the store owner to buy something or get out.
—-
WC/ 697

"Now, you will need to take it easy...."  The doctor said with some concern in his voice.  The man was older, and in no small way battle scarred.  Whatever path he had taken, the path to healer had not been one of comfort.  Perhaps it was that reason he had volunteered to be the one who took over care from the Kage to see to it the Oni regained his footing.  At this point many knew of the sumo, and more than a few had been excited to see him compete in the coming tournament set for the winter season.  Though it had been scheduled for autumn, the invasion and various factors had caused the organizers to push it back and relocate it to be within the village walls for safety.  Roughly two months...not enough time for most to heal, but the hope still lived in his fans, even if the fire had died down within his chest.  Doubt, the true killer ambition had taken residence within his mind, a thing that no doctor would be able to fix with physical care.  As the doctor reviewed the remaining discharge instructions, he unhooked the IV and signed off on the chart setting it down on the bedside table.  "I'm afraid we don't have any chairs big enough to push you out..."  He'd add with a small smirk.  

"Ahh doc, now you're just trying to butter me up..."  The Ushitora would say standing from the bed.  The bed groaned as he shifted off of it, one could almost sense its inanimate relief.  "Still don't know if I can get used to this..."  He'd say holding out the bandaged stump.  His left hand ended about mid forearm; the fresh white bandages freshly changed.  It didn't hurt much anymore, but he felt that he could still feel those fingers twitching despite the clear indication that they no longer existed.

"You know our Kage did say she could fix it...It is outside my abilities" he'd say with a shrug, "but, not hers."  He'd look at the man, now having to crane his neck upward to keep the man insite.

Takeshiyama would let out a long deep sigh.  "That's what she says....but I just don't trust that ninja shit.  Don't tell her but her blood magic gives me the creeps."  He would say with a smile.  The irony of a man of his stature afraid of the much smaller woman almost laughable.  "I prefer what I can touch....even if that has been reduced by half."  He'd chuckle slightly, and being a smile to the doctors face.

"Well...if you change your mind, we will set up a consult."  He' reach out a hand and shake the Oni's one remaining.  "We are still behind you...even handicapped you will be our yokozuna."  His face was more serious with that, conveying his utter belief.  

Sticking his own hand out he would engulf the doctors, and gently shake it.  "Thank you doctor....be seeing you."  He'd say before ducking to exit the hospital room.  Making his way through the hospital he would exit out onto the street.  It felt good to stretch his legs and stand up straight.  Takeshiyama was nearly 7 feet tall, and though he had been almost 400lbs as he approached competition size, he could feel he had trimmed down if just slightly.  His desire to stretch his legs is what took him the long way home, moving through the market as though pulled by some other force.

Kaito the Oni, Takeshiyama the Rikishi, Sumo.....Moved through the streets.  To some he recieved knowing looks, and others rushed to embrace him.  He had given much on the day of the invasion, and it had been he who moved through many streets to pull the attention of beasts from those unlucky enough to be out.  His injuries had been egregious, more than one gained purely from his desire to be in the way for those behind him, some from inexperience in the battle against multiple foes.  Though he looked mostly the same, the signs of battle where now deeply scared across his body.  His black hair was tied back tightly, his horns visible protruding from his head.  He wore a light blue kimono with white clouds.  Though where one could see his skin, burns and striations ran abound across the tanned flesh.  Not to mention the missing appendage, still he moved through the street with the dignity of rikishi.

At odds with this dignity he was trying to maintain was an argument between shop owner and customer.  Intrigued he moved towards the commotion only to come upon them when they both had become distracted by an old lantern.  "Is that important?"  He would ask, well over a head taller than both men, and leaning over them to pluck the lantern from where it sat, holding it up and inspecting it.  

TWC - 809/4,000
Mission WC - 1,506/12,000

Oda's time in Tsukigakure had been exhilarating so far, and he had largely kept to himself with missions. He could tell that the village had gone through something traumatic lately, and he did his best to not address it, as a newcomer he didn’t know what trauma these villagers held. He knew very little of what occurred during the invasion, but it was the invasion that had spurred him to travel to Tsuki in the first place, even at 18 and in a somewhat foreign place, he felt a sense of duty to the land that had allowed his family in during a time of need. Now that he had been here for a little while, that sense of duty was even stronger than before.

He stopped briefly to chat with his ever-gardening neighbor. Her garden had exploded in growth, and she was having trouble reaching a particularly tall Tomato plant. Oda motioned to assist her but she slapped his hand away and refused as usual.

“So you going on another mission today son?” The lady would ask

“No, taking a breather today, think I might go down to the market and hang around, looking for something to kill the time.” He would reply as he lazily munched on a mushy cup of ramen.

“That's unusual of you, you're such a workaholic I’m glad to see you taking a day to yourself” She said with a smile

Oda returned the smile and talked through a mouth of ramen “Thankfs MissB!” He would quickly swallow his food before continuing “Yeah it's gonna be just a relaxing day I think, I need the rest. It was good catching up with you ma’am I gotta get headed out!” With a wave between the two he would resume his walk through the misty town.


As Oda perused the various trinkets and wares of the market he couldn’t help but notice a particularly large Oni as he meandered through the street. Oda was fascinated by Oni, and he watched as this battle scarred behemoth was greeted by the villagers with respect and admiration. Whether subconsciously or by coincidence, Oda drifted closer to the shinobi, his path eventually leading him outside of a small shop. A slight commotion could be heard and Oda poked his head in the doorway to see what was going on.

In the store stood 3 men, the shop owner, the large Oni that Oda had seen previously, and another man who Oda had never seen before. The moon stood in a relaxed posture, and Oda could see the various tattoos that etched on his hands and neck. He took particular note of the Jashinist symbol sitting prominently on the man's neck and made a note to himself to be wary. Oda was always a bit of a goody two shoes, and before moving to Tsukigakure he was admittedly judgemental of criminals or anyone he and his family thought were outside the bounds of “normal” whatever that meant. His time in Tsuki however had taught him the error of those ways, he had met so many wonderful people of all different walks of life that he carried a great shame for his past judgements. Despite that, he still fought against his own wariness occasionally, this being one of those occasions.

The large Oni had grabbed a lantern from the Jashinist opposite him, and they were now both staring up at this Lantern that was for some reason particularly captivating.

Oda walked in further, deciding to announce his presence instead of lurk in quiet. “Wow, cool lamp!” He said awkwardly and with a grin, as good as Oda was with people he was terrible at introductions.

WC: 613

Contemplating in whether or not he should buy the lantern; it’s spiritual energy enticing him with every second he stared towards lamp, a shadow behind the MadKat engulfs him. The lantern before him was  being taken hold of by another figure. While his eyes  traced the lantern as it was hoisted high in the air, his jaw dropped. His left hand swipes upwards and grabs hold of the lantern with his right to follow, as he twist around to face the would be adversarial shopper.

Katsuragi’s blood boiled over the top as he swung back behind him to see who would dare take what was soon to be his. He grits his teeth mid swing, ready to strike at any given moment. However, upon shifting his postion, now facing a towering ominous figure who clear belonged in a different weight class leagues above his own, his eyes widen at the sight of the oni.

“Jashinst Priest! What, the absolute fuck are yo- Opp!”, his eyes immediately take notice of the giant’s injury while continuing to tug the lantern towards him should the giant not let go. He had to admit, this oni reminded him of the past Sand Shinobi who taught him the way of the Seven breaths, Raleth the Gentle Giant from Sunagakure.

A missing hand, meant an upper hand for the bandit. He immediately  “Hey! Asshole!”, he yelled while noticing another lone soul behind the Tower observing the whole situation. “There’s a line! Let go, Jumbo!”, he yelled. Perhaps, it was the lantern himself that caused him to go haywire over such a relic? He just has to have it! But it would seem he too wasn’t the only one too feel the alluring pull of the lightbearer.

“Hey Hey Hey! You break it you by it!”, the Shopkeeper yelled. The shopkeeper then joins in on the tug of war match.

The conflict resonated within the store, which reacted with the lamp in such away that caused it to glow slightly; it shook ever so slightly as it surged with power. It was as if the fighting was fueling it, the conflict eventually ignited the lamp. The core lit up light christmas, manifesting a stream of flames upwards towards the ceiling. Surprisingly, nothing caught on fire, yet the flames gave off a warmth of that typical to a small open wmber despite it‘s immense size.

“Aww, shit…”, the bandit exclaimed. The stream of fire twists and bends, the many streaking silhouettes that steamed from the funnel of doom converged into one entity. A being a fire and the past, the great spirit of… a Rat; the size of cats?!

*insert sounds of squeaks, chrips, and or hisses that a rat would make*, the fire rat made as it scurried along the floorboards of the shop making an exit for the door. It steps sounded heavy with it’s nails clawing against the floor due to it being relatively the same size as a rat from New York City. “Whoa!!! Look out, it’s over there!!”, Katsuragi yelled. His heart raced as he hopped from one foot to another while attempting to avoid the rather way too quick for its own good rodent. The shop owner did so as well.

Where was it trying to go, what was it looking fot? It was as if it was trying to get a scent of something. More charcoal perhaps?
—-
TWC/ 1,262
TMWC/ 2,684/ 12,000

Takeshiyama's first instinct normally would have been to let go, it was a lamp after all, nothing special. Nothing worth causing a scene or a fight over, something he rarely would do either of. Still as his fingers had found purchase on the lamp, a deep desire to keep hold of it ensued. It was shocking that the tiny man would dare to keep it from him, and it was even more annoying that the man seemed to have some hidden strength matching his own to not just have it yanked from him instantly. The two men fought over the lamp, while the shop keeper tried to keep up, though severely outmatched. It was likely only his strength as a rikishi that led him to keep his grip, his hands used to grabbing belts and holding on for dear life, despite being a hand down. Unfortunately for the newcomer, his attempt at injecting himself to the conversation was cut short. Not only by the fight that was going on, but the paranormal shenanigans that then followed. The flaming rat poured from the lantern and moved about the room, and while the other two men hoped and danced away from it, Takeshiyama attempted to stomp the paranormal pest.

Each stomp sent a shudder through the store, items rattling on the shelves as a fury seemed to grip him. His eyes became nearly as bright as the rat's flames, until a sharp pain snapped him out of it. Wiggly-Woo his hidden companion sank its fangs into his flesh under the robe, but this catalyst snapped him from whatever spell was holding him. Shaking his head, he finally came to his senses, releasing the lantern causing a distinct shift in the balance at the hopping and tugging other two people. His head felt foggy, the remnants of an intense rage still flowing out of him, like an adrenaline rush aftermath. Letting out a breath he looked and noticed that a new person had entered the shop, and he took notice clearly of the flaming rat.

"What the hell..." He said, his eyes crinkling in confusion. Looking back over at the lantern he felt the urge to grab it once again but shaking his head he resisted this time. Its light had distinctly dimmed since he let it go. However, before he could really think on that to much the rat ceased its scampering to come to the middle of the room, before it seemed to explode. The flames licked out but did not burn, instead they felt cold if they brushed against any of the individuals in the bar. In the dying embers of the ghostly fire a shape began to take form. An ancient house seemed to loom in the smoke before it wisped away, the smoke and remaining flames slowly coiled up before finding their way back into the lantern, the light going out, and the animosity that had lingered within the room went with it.

To no one in particular the Sumotori said "I think I know where that is..." his voice only slightly lower than normal due to the strangeness of the preceding events. The house had been the same he had nearly taken that boy to on his hunt for candy. Even more so than before he was glad, they had turned back on the precipice. Though he didn't have the same concern for himself, he was more certain the boy may have not survived such a venture.

"We are going aren't we....." A voice in his head said. His slithery companion coiled slightly an indication at its displeasure.

"Where did that lamp come from." Takeshiyama asked authoritatively to the shop owner, who looked worse for ware. He repeated himself his voice booming slightly so as to get his attention.

"I....I...D-d-don't know....its just been here." he said shakily.

Kaito the Oni let out a sigh at that. He could feel that he had to investigate that house. He didn't know why, but it was as though some unseen person was whispering in his ear that he needed to do it. Turning he really took interest in the newcomer for the first time. Looking the man up and down, he made his way for the door.

"He'ssss been following you..." Wiggly woo whispered into his head one more time.

At that Kaito would look over his shoulder at Oda, "You come with me, and bring that lantern." He said simply before continuing to walk out of the shop. His voice was even and confident as though despite the two having never met and the lantern being in the possession of an unsavory fellow, he just fully expected it all to go as he said. His strides were long as he walked in the direction of the house, looking to put some facts to the mystery.

TWC - 1615
TMWC - 3,490/12,000

Oda watched in fascination as the two shinobi completely disregarded him and fought over the lamp. Must be a really cool lamp He thought to himself as we watched the two men struggle for it. He had his money on the giant oni but his mouth dropped at the strength exhibited by the man opposite him. The two men continued to fight, and something in Oda’s psyche tugged at the back of his mind, but he was too enraptured by the lantern to really address it. His gaze was locked onto the lantern as it swung to and fro in the ensuing tug of war. Its bronze casing reflected the light of the bar, each individual groove bouncing the light in different directions, its murky glass called to him. Despite the pulling back and forth of the lantern by these two intimidating shinobi and now the store owner, Oda found himself fixated on nothing but the lantern. He put his hand out slightly and walked towards it as if being called by something or someone to touch it, light it, let it breathe.

               Oda was snapped out of his trance by the appearance of fire from the lantern as it started to heat up and take on flame within its casing. His breath caught as the flame poured out of the lantern and shot up into the ceiling, before going outwards and coalescing into… a rat? It was a rat yes but none like he had ever seen, it was the size of a large cat for one, and made of fire for two. The eyes were a sickly light green.  The young Terumi took a few stunned steps back, too caught off guard to do anything with any efficiency.  As he did the rat ran to the center of the room and exploded, Oda turned away to shield his face and nearly felt vertigo at the rush of cold- not hot- air that brushed against him and pushed him back slightly. He confusingly removed his arm from his face and stared at the scene unfolding before him.

                The fire exploded outwards and created a smoke, which then formed into the image of some sort of house. Oda had never seen the house before, he’d never seen anything like this before. As the image of the house fully formed the smoke went rolling back into the lamp and the small door to the lamp shut with finality as the final bit of smoke was absorbed. The small clanging of the metal left a resounding note, capping the end of a very strange turn of events.

            The 4 men stared at each other in a brief pause after the lamp closed before the large Oni mentioned that he might know where that house is. Oda struggled to stop staring at the lantern as this unknown shinobi took on some authority and took the lead. He was only snapped out of his trance again by the footsteps as they shook the bar and moved towards him. He looked away finally to see the large Oni pausing at Oda. He looked up in slight fear, tilting his head up until it was almost all the way back, he then stepped slightly more out of the way.
The oni addressed him, telling him to grab the lantern before confidently striding out into the street and in some direction, not bothering to wait. At that order Oda awkwardly and slowly looked over towards the equally intimidating Jashinist.

              He gave an awkward smile and waved at the man “Uh- Hi, I’m uh I-I’m Oda!” He’d give a slight smile while moving towards the man gradually and peacefully like you would a dangerous jungle cat. He would try to gently take the lamp from the man but his strength would be entirely too much for Oda to even think about challenging. At one point Oda would be near vertical with his heels dug in tugging at the lamp, with the Jashinist calmly standing straight not looking to be trying at all. If the Jashinist shinobi relented and gave the lantern to Oda, he would go tumbling to the ground in the sudden lack of resistance. Standing up he would brush himself off and not skip a beat “Thanks bossman! Hey let's go check this out, that big guy seemed to know what was going on.” Oda would go to the doorway but only leave once confirming that the other shinobi was following. If he expressed doubt he would give a big grin “Nah we’ll be alright, we’re shinobi!” He would give a thumbs up before heading to catch up with the Oni.

            If the Jashinist did not let go of the lantern finally Oda’s grip would fail him and he would go tumbling down to the ground. He would stand up and sheepishly scratch his head “Uhh the big guy asked me to grab that but… I don’t think that's happening” He would give a nervous laugh “But might it be worth it to go check this house out?” He would say as he moved to the entryway. He would pause at the entryway and wait for the other shinobi to join him before walking to catch up with the Oni.

TWC: 1,486
TMWC - 4,363/12,000

While Hana still viewed the young Hasumi as a burden, the two kunoichi had been starting to form some form of friendship as they spent time together. The young Oni woman had arrived at Junko's Old Home early in the morning, the two helping each other get ready for the festival. Hasumi had no experience with makeup but Hana did her best to assist. The Oni woman did her best to keep the make up modest as she applied it the child she was assigned to guard, but in the end couldn't help herself but convince Hasumi to try out black lipstick to go with her kimono. The young girl had nervously obliged, and after a few hours the duo left the former home of the Village Leader. Hana's make up was more noticeable than Hasu's, having applied quite a bit of black eyeliner to herself as well as accentuating the paleness of her face. Her bright silver eyes were accentuated by the liberal use of black eyeliner, almost enough to pull attention from the giant 30 centimeter horns she possessed.

Both woman wore their hair in tight buns, Hasumi's raven black hair contrasted by a fake Moonflower that was attached to one of her hairpins. Hana's didn't have any accessories, the woman thinking her shining white hair and horns were enough.

The two also wore a bit of jewelry. Once again Hasu was the more modest one, simply wearing a silver necklace with a garnet pendant. Hana wore two heart shaped studs made of gold, one on each ear lobe. Upon her horns were silver rings that rested about halfway down their length. Her hand as well was adorned with a few simple silver rings. As far as their outfits, both had chosen to wear kimono's to the festival. Hasumi's was black with golden embroidery, while Hana's was simply black. The matching pair made their way through the village and into the market place, hoping to find vendors selling some tasty snack or find a vendor who was giving out a deal for the festival.

Hana walked eagerly through the market place but Hasu kept herself reserved, often losing herself in introspection while her bodyguard was talking with some merchant or another. While the Oni woman hadn't seemed to phased by the recent events Hasu had been struggling not to panic. With her friend having been kidnapped during the invasion, and now natural disaster and other ills plaguing the village, she was starting to grow scared that Tsukigakure wasn't safe.

Hana noticed the girl's disposition, but was a bit at a loss as to how to deal with it. She hoped the festival would help, and that after awhile Hasumi would relax a bit and calm down.

Unfortunately that didn't seem to be in the cards, as as the two continued to go about shopping a commotion was suddenly heard. Curious and confused, the two girls made their way through the crowd and toward the noise. As they drew closer the crowd began to thicken, it seemed that the incident had drawn in a few onlookers. Initially Hasu stopped in front of what appeared to be a wall of people, but after a moment of hesitation she felt Hana take a hold of her wrist and press froward. People stumbled as the Oni woman pushed her way through, making sure people got out of her way as she moved so that Hasu wouldn't get bumped around.

As the two exited the crowd they came upon quite the scene. Both girls immediately recognized Oda's bright hair as they came onto the scene behind him, but the two men fighting over the lantern were strangers to Hana. As Hasu managed to get a good look of things she recognized Takeshiyama from a tour they had led together. She couldn't help but gasp at the sight of hi, noticing the missing hand and that he seemed to have gained a number of other scars. The young kunoichi wondered just how grievous the wounds must have been, that Lady Junko hadn't been able to heal them,

The initial scuffle seemed to have come to an end by the time the girls arrived, with Takeshiyama letting go and walking off. He seemed to command Oda to retrieve the lantern for him, so the two girls were still rather confused about the situation. Hana didn't really care to much about understanding it however, instead rather intrigued to see another Oni. She tried to recall if her sisters had mentioned there being another like them within Tsuki, but if they had Hana must not have been paying attention.

Both girls simply observed at first, Hana watching Takeshiyama with a curious smirk while Hasu watched the encounter between Oda and the man with the lantern. If Oda went for it, she'd hold her hands together nervously and hope that the friendly young man managed to get through the attempt unscathed.

Regardless of the outcome, Hasu would then try and approach Oda, hoping to figure out what's going on. She wished she was dressed in her mission attire as she approached in her kimono. The young girl got within 2 meters of the young man before asking, "Is everything going alright over here? Hana and I aren't on duty right now but we can help if you need it."

Hana walked over to Hasu and stood beside her as the girl finished speaking, the silver eyed Oni's gaze shifting between Takeshiyama and the expensively dressed man he had an altercation with. Rather than try and discern the situation she was more curious as to how strong the yellow shoed man must be to not have been immediately ragdolled by a member of her clan.  

Unfortunately both kunoichi had missed the display by the lantern, so were rather confused as to what was going on. They were both eager to try and help resolve the situation however, despite being dressed and ready for the festival. If they were informed about the house and that Takeshiyama thought they should go there, the two would follow.

WC: 1,015
TMWC - 5,378/12,000

With the rat scurring around, Katsuragi cheers the jumbo shinobi on as he attempts to deal with the fiery rodent. “Get em, Jumbo! Get em get em get em!”, each stomp shook the store violently. It was as if the misfits were on a wooden rollercoaster ride at a fair; each twist and turn on the rollercoaster vibrated the whole scene. The store owner slowly looks up at the ceiling, grabbing the long strands of his raven hair while yelling out sounds of discomfort. “Aye Yaaaaah. Noooooo!”, the frame of the building managed to remain as it was, for now.

Moments later, the prophecy of the rat would unveil itself among the chosen group; the miserable shop owner too. Manifesting into another form, the rat would morph into some sort of lodging unit. A house, Katsuragi would guess as he stared right into the crackling flames. What did it mean? Katsuragi never liked over complicate things. If he saw smoke, must’ve meant there was a fire. After the message was sent, the flames started acting up again. Shifting through the air, at almost breakneck speed, Katsuragi notices that the flames were heading back towards the lamp. And guess who was left holding the bag?

“Oh shit!!”, he yelled as he cocks back his arm holding the lamp while wondering where he should throw it. But it was too late, way too late. “Dammit”, he covers his face as the lantern absorbs the mystical flames of the rodent. He sighs, being thankful he didnt burn himself.

"I think I know where that is..." Said Jumbo. Katsuragi slow traces his sight over towards the giant with a deadpan face, only to glance over at the seemingly cowarding store owner. It was so visable, the knee bending facial expession, that it almost made Katsuragi cause another out burst.

With the others seemingly ready to chase the odd mysterious legend of the flames; Katsuragi scoffed at the idea of doing it. It was just a house, it could have been any other rando shack on the beachfront. Shaking his head, he watches the bright haired figure cautiously advance towards him right after being told by jumbo. Again, he started to feel the urge to do bad things. He purses his lips at the guy gesturing for the lantern, while thinking back at the nervious introduction.

“Uhh the big guy asked me to grab that but… I don’t think that's happening” He would give a nervous laugh “But might it be worth it to go check this house out?” - Oda Terumi


The boy reminded him of the new immates that would arrive to pelican island, nervious, scared, and meek beyond all reasoning. Of course, the MaDKat did not let go of what was his. No, he simply gave the boy a stare, much like any other cool cat that would judge its prey.

Sure, why not. The moment was gone anyway.“, he said while staring at the shinobi on the floor. He tosses the lantern his way, while collecting himself. It seemed whatever hold that possessed him was now gone. A new possession however wrapped around the mind of said maniac, the possession of expensive items in said house which had to be checked out

Before walking out, he notices a new pair of females within the store. After glances towards them, he walks past them in search for riches; though he did feel a sense of loss. Due to the fact that one of them seemed too young, and the other one was too short. Shame, she was 5‘10 when he wished she was atleast 6 feet. She was too short for the ride along.

As the gang finally arrived at the lead of Jumbo, Katsuragi instinctively counts how many points of ingress there were on the house. There were quite a few, and no dogs could be seen. “If this is the house, I’ll be right back”, he said while sauntering up to the house, from the back.

“Hmmm”, he said while scanning the lock. “Sakura Corp brand door locks? Wow, what a bunch of tryhards…”, he said while flashing back to the time he first ran into these.

Flashback Activated:

“Whoa, Kats. Watchout, that’s a Sakura Corp door lock dude. Those things are like, shinobi grade dangerous.”, Temu whispered. As he so did not want to get caught stealing, it would be his third strike.

“Shut up bro, I can break it”, Kats said as he reached for the knob. Upon contact, the many seals etched into the mechanisms lit up and sent a violent shock to Katsuragi’s system.

“Aaaaahhhhhh!!!”, Kats yelled.

“Dude hush, your gonna get us ca-“

The lights within the house sudden flick on, “Hey! Who the fawk is out there(thick cloud accent which sounds an awful lot like massholes)?!”

*insert sounds of dobermans and rottweilers barking at the sound of their master.

Back to present day:

“Right, no physical contact!”, he said while hoisting up his rusted iron crowbar that he found right next to the trash can located outside. Ya gotta love people that trust the response time of the village constables. He pause for a moments, giving a blank stare at the doorknob. He couldn’t help but wonder if the doorknob was unlocked, cause if so the violrnt shocking seals wouldn’t activate. Plus, a sensible person wouldn’t just leave a crowbar laying outside their house.

Oh well, its a good thing Katsuragi didnt over complicate things…

CLANK!


CLANK!


“The Kat is in da house…”, he said as he slinked his way inside the basement. But before he could advance, he was met with a light brush of air. The basement lights failed to come on after multiple flicks of the light switch. He thn bares wittness to countless individuals with ripped clothing. They all simply stared up towards the flight of stairs at Katsuragi.

“Yo, who the hell are you people, and… are you all, glowing?”, the 21 ghosts that occupied the basement slowly floated up into the air and wailed in unison! Katsuragi was seen swining his crowbar blindly against air trying to defend himself.

“Jashinst’s Priest!!! It’s a gawd damn Exorcist!”

After the wail, the ghosts would hide themselves into random artifacts within the house.
—-
TWC/ 2,329
TMWC/ 6,445

What had been a manageable number of individuals had quickly become that of a full blown enterouge.  Takeshiyama nearly counting for three people all on his own, Oda, the hooligan, two women, and a snake.  It was almost the start of a bad joke; all be it incredibly long winded if one wanted to use it as the start.  Still for Kaito the Oni his mind was more upon the house that they were heading too, ignoring the protests of his pet that spoke in whispers to his mind.  It didn't take long for them to make their way to the house, the thief and the sumo both seeming to leave the option of filling in the girls on Oda's shoulders as neither had provided much detail for them.  Kaito was typically a man of few words when sake was not involved and now was no different especially with his mind at odds with the supernatural events that they had just seen.  The lantern seemed oddly quite after its spectacle as they approached the house, he had anticipated some kind of activity from it, but it seemed content to keep its ghostly fire all to itself for the time being.  

 Before long they had arrived at the house, and the sumo watched as the gruff individual pushed himself to the front with the kind of swagger that people loved to watch fail.  Still, despite his own strength he was perfectly fine not being the first to mess too much with the house.  Physical strength was a grand thing to have, but punching ghosts for the most part seemed to be a fools errand.  "Then you are the fool...."  A whisper in his mind said as Wiggly-Woo seemed to read his thoughts.  While the would be break in artist went to work on the door, the snake opened its senses beyond that of a regular animal and felt outwardly into the home.  Taking in the negative energy that existed and the roiling kinetic forces that vibrated more and more as the seal holding the house together was closed.  Like removing the lid too quickly from a bubbly beverage, the energy splashed out as the man accomplished his task, Wiggly-woo reactively shutting his senses completely down to avoid the energy that was now leaking out towards them.  Takeshiyama also took a step back, arms instinctively coming up in a defensive position as the lights of pale green flames seemed to wail and screech escaping the basement and ignoring as the crowbar widely swung through their shapeless forms, before launching themselves into the house.  Briefly the windows exploded in that same eerie green light before all went dark once more.

With a flickering burst, the green light swelled, spilling out in blinding waves that painted the trees and ground in ghostly shades. 
 In the midst of the green flare, a large, translucent shape took form—a rat, massive and spectral, with eyes that glowed like embers. It loomed over them, its pale, wispy fur rippling as though caught in an unseen wind. The rat’s gaze drifted across the group, assessing, as it spoke in a voice both chilling and sorrowful.

“Years ago, a shinobi with a twisted heart sought to trap the very souls of his enemies,” the rat explained, its voice echoing like whispers from forgotten graves. “These spirits were bound to objects, sealed within cursed relics scattered through the land. I am but one of them, a spirit entrapped and bound to this lantern for eternity.”

Its gaze hardened, an intense gleam piercing through the light. “If you wish to bring peace to those unjustly shackled, you must find these artifacts and set the souls free. Only then will their torment end, and balance be restored.”

The rat bowed its head solemnly. The green light faded slowly from its form, shrinking back toward the lantern as if reluctant to leave. But the echo of its plea lingered long after the light vanished, leaving the group with only darkness, an uneasy silence, and the heavy task set before them.

"are you ssssure thissss issss our problem?"  Wiggly-Woo stated for only Takehisyma to hear, its long body constricting slightly under his robes, its form mostly hidden and its gesture a clear sign of discontent.  

"We can't ignore that.....as much as I'd want to."  He said, a statement that not only answered his familiar's question but seemed a response to the plea of the ghost as well.  He'd turn, his eyes taking in the girls dressed for festival festivities not ghoulish encounters.  "You two, can you fetch us some salt, and if anyone at the festival is selling fulu charms, or anything of the like bring them back quickly."  With that said he'd once again turn towards the house.  If there was protest, he did not stand around to listen to it.  His words clearly he just expected to be listened to.  In truth, his mind was already moved onto the house, if the girls failed or ignored his request there was always the other sure-fire way to exorcise the place......with the fire of the Oni bloodline....With that as his last thought, he pushed his way past Kat and descended into the basement to make his way into the house proper.  

TWC - 2491
TMWC - 7321/12000

Oda smiled from the ground as the Lantern came flying down, he snatched it out of the air deftly. “Thanks bossman!” He said jovially before swiftly getting up, the intimidating Jashinist walked by him and followed after the large Oni. As Oda motioned to follow as well he noticed a pair of familiar faces approaching. His mind flashed back to their earlier mission together. His face lit up once more and he beamed a smile, waving a bit as they approached. “Hey Hasu, Hey Hana!” He said in his usual enthusiasm.

He motioned for them to follow him and answered Hasus' inquiries as they walked,  following behind the other two shinobi who had taken the lead and headed towards the house.  

“Yeah I think theyre going… All right” He said cheerfully but hesitantly, He proceeded to fill Hasu in on all that had happened. The strange cold flame, the spirit rat of fire…thing. It was all still so strange to Oda and he realized how insane it sounded. But, he continued.

“So the flame showed us this house and uh, yeah I don’t know Hasu, something really strange about this lantern.” He got a little serious as he thought about the strange hold it had on him when he looked at it. “Just be careful with it, it’s not normal.” He returned to his smiling self in an attempt to ignore his fears.  He would answer any questions Hasu had while walking with the now sizable crew. Finally they would reach the now recognizable house.

Oda didn’t like the feeling of this place, it had an ominous energy to it. His caution however was not shared by the Jashinist. The Terumi watched as the confident shinobi approached the house, crow bar in hand. “Maybe it's unlo-”

CLANG


CLANG

“-cked…” Oda finished as the Jashinist broke into the house. Before Oda could say anything else however a green cold flame much like before came bursting forth from the basement of the house and Oda could hear a commotion as the Jashinist seemed to be fighting with something. Much like the last time, the flame was not hot, but the force with which it expelled from the house was enough to make Oda take a brief step back and brace himself. He checked with Hasu and Hana were ok, if any of them had fallen he would offer a hand up.

His face would go pale a bit at the sight of the spirits as they flew through the Jashinist in the doorway, briefly circling above before shooting back into the house with a frightening wail. He wouldn’t have too much time to process that however, as another sickly green wave of light poured out from the windows, forming into the recognizable rat form that they had seen from the lantern. It addressed the group with somber eyes that seemed to look straight into Oda’s very soul.

Oda listened with rapt attention as the Rat explained his somber tale, a bit of anger welling up in him as he heard the plight of the trapped souls inside the house.

“Years ago, a shinobi with a twisted heart sought to trap the very souls of his enemies,” Oda winced at the very idea, an evil strategy to be sure. “These spirits were bound to objects, sealed within cursed relics scattered through the land. I am but one of them, a spirit entrapped and bound to this lantern for eternity.”

Oda was taken back by the very human and intense gaze the Rat gave as it continued its tragic tale “If you wish to bring peace to those unjustly shackled, you must find these artifacts and set the souls free. Only then will their torment end, and balance be restored.”

By the end of the Rats story Oda’s smile had evaporated much like the Rat now did as it returned to its prison. Oda was overcome with grief for the souls trapped inside, no enemy no matter how large deserved that sort of torture.

As the large Oni took charge once more he was brought to the present moment, his shinobi instincts taking over he nodded to Hasu and Hana, “I am going to go into the house as well, we can’t let this continue.” He would make his way into the house following closely behind the large Oni, any nervousness or shyness was gone as he confidently walked past the Purple haired Shinobi, his face a mixture of anger, focus, and determination.

WC: 750
TWC: 2236
TMWC - 8071/12000