[Muramasa Uemon]

a famous landmark

---

The pitter-patter of rain was constant.

Fitting, for the Land of Storms. Up until now he had never set foot in-country. Neither during the exodus from his homeland nor in his travels over the years. It was a smaller nation, and from what he remembered from his mentors one embroiled in turmoil. Not the most welcoming to outsiders... so it was a good thing he had a trump card.

A young kid traveling with him. Injured, at that. Only the truly heartless could turn away such a pair. Muramasa turned to the boy, checking to see if he was alright. "Keep that hat on tight... don't want your wound to get wet." Gangrene of the head was the last thing either of them needed now. After some close calls evading patrols in the Land of Earth they had managed to make it to the border without too much fanfare... though he still worried.

Despite his feigned confidence he was no doctor. The boy needed a medic. Try as they might, there was only so much protection one could maintain against unending downpours. So the sooner they sought help, the better. Along the way he had managed to flag down a shinobi with four vertical lines on his forehead protector. Questions were asked, and despite natural hesitance and suspicion this nameless kunoichi took pity on the duo. Choosing to escort them to the gates of Amegakure rather than chance a child succumbing to injury without her timely intervention. "Thank you, again." The wanderer said, softspoken and flat as ever. A rare kindness. One they sorely needed now.

It wasn't long before they approached the guarded entrance. Once more he looked back to the youth. A hint of concern behind his dark eyes. "How're you feeling?" Good, he hoped. He'd had enough excitement for a while.

---

[Kota]

Feels like We had         matching wounds But mine's still black and bruised      And yours is perfectly               fine Travel had been more difficult than he was used to. Many times had Kota traversed the wilderness entirely on his own--for the past two years, it had been the entirety of his lifestyle, even. Occasionally he'd have to flee and avoid the attention of certain parties--human, feral, or otherwise--but it still felt different this time around.     At least, different than from when he'd been on his own.     In many ways, travelling with Muramasa reminded the boy of what travelling with his father had been like. It wasn't fun and games--and while the man had of course been kind to his son and shared many good memories with him, there had been a constant edge present in his body language. Something Kota had always known about his father--but it wasn't until he'd spent more time around civilians in Kuwana that he realized it wasn't a common trait.     Muramasa was the same.     Travelling at night, moving quietly, avoiding the attention of any person--it was all just like it had been, before.     While Kota didn't fully understand it, he'd not asked questions, either. It was all familiar.     Though the constant downpour was something new and uncomfortable. Kota had seen plenty of rain in his life--and he knew the dangers that it brought. Landslides, flooding, lightning. A powerful enough storm was dangerous, too. The wind and rain could soak you to the bone, the cold temperatures making it dangerous--and hail was an issue, too. But it usually passed after a day or two, while even if they hadn't been faced with something so severe yet, the rain hadn't let up for even a moment after passing the border.     There was forest and earth and plants, at least.     But so, so much rain.     Eventually they found someone--and Muramasa had been bold enough this time around to call out to grab her attention. They were guided to a city that rested over a giant lake, and Kota continued to hold tightly onto the elder wanderer's hand. Having lost his balance too many times, before, it just seemed better this way.     "Cold," Kota responded plainly when Muramasa checked in with him again. The boy used his spare sleeve to rub one of his eyes, sniffling. "An' wet. An' tired." He tried not to whine, but he wasn't about to sugar-coat it, either.

✜

[Mikazuki Aikawa]

you're gone, gone, gone away
I watched you disappear
all that's left is a ghost of you
※
Muramasa Uemon

The two wanderers would have to check in with the gate guards, signing some paper work, accepting a seal to grant them passage into the village, and any of the other regular procedures for visitors. Of course, it had been fortunate that the Amegakure Kunoichi had crossed paths with them, and had found it within her spirit to pity them enough to bring them to her home village.
    Their fortune would come to a swift enough end, however, when the two strangers would catch Mikazuki's attention.
    "Who are these guys?" Mikazuki asked, finishing up her own paperwork and setting the clipboard down on the table where a Chūnin was stationed. 
    "Two wanderers I happened to come across while on patrol," the kunoichi who had guided the pair explained. "He's got a little kid with him, and it seemed like they needed help, so I figured I'd bring them here. The boy's injured, and..."
    "And--what?" Mikazuki snipped. "What do you think we are, exactly? You can't just go picking up every stranger with a sob-story and bring them to our village. We're a military base, not a charity organization."
    "Oh, please. Lord Fourth isn't in charge, anymore. Your paranoia and anxiety isn't warranted, Mika," the gate guard commented in a cold tone. "They've got the seal and we've got tight security, and it's like Hanako said--he's got an injured kid with him, I doubt they're going to do anything. Not everybody is as heartless as you. If we didn't allow any contracts or visitors, we'd fizzle out as a country. Citizens still have a place, here. If you're so worried, why don't you keep an eye on em, hm? It's not like you're a shinobi anymore, so you don't have anything better to be doing with your time, anyway."
    Mikazuki raised an eyebrow, then slowly crossed her arms and shifted her weight onto one leg. Don't give me that shit, her cold expression seemed to say. "Do I look like a visitor's guide, to you? Why don't you make her do it?" she growled, nodding her head slightly to gesture at the kunoichi who had brought the wanderers to the village.
    "I have to go back to my station, I really don't have the time to show them around," the other woman spoke timidly.
    "Why don't you make yourself useful for a change?" The guard snapped back at Mikazuki. "Or are you too preoccupied sacrificing babies?"
    The corner of her mouth twitched.
    You're really going to let them talk to you like that, huh?
    Mikazuki shifted her gaze to the wanderer, looking him up and down before briefly taking note of the child accompanying him. Well, they're suspicious if nothing else. But maybe I can get something out of them, she thought, scoffing. Promptly ignoring the other voice in her head, she defiantly flipped some of her hair over her shoulder. "I'll be keeping an eye on them, then." Her gaze narrowed at Muramasa, and she cocked her head to one side slightly before turning on her heel. "You. Come with me."

---

512 words

MADE BY ★MEULK

[Muramasa Uemon]

so familiar yet unknown

---

Normally expressionless, a faint frown crossed the wanderer's face at the boy's words.

Clearly the journey had not been easy on him. "We'll find some shelter soon." An attempt at reassurance that he hoped proved true. Already they had been lucky finding someone willing to offer help. Now they needed a bit more.

Allowing Kota to grip his hand they continued on, following their guide to the entrance of a city. Procedure was standard enough. But just as the wanderer finished signing the both of them in an abrupt voice questioned their presence. Silent he remained. Furrowing his brow slightly as the woman spoke. Suspicion of travelers was normal. In a world full of shinobi there was no telling who was hiding ill-intent... but it didn't make him like it any more.

Fortunately he did not have to speak, as the kind kunoichi spoke up in their defense. As did another gate guard. So far it seemed that Arashi no Kuni was not as hostile as he was once led to believe. Apart from this one person. "Thank you both." Offering a curt word of gratitude to the guard and the kunoichi he turned his gaze again to the woman. Who beckoned them to follow. Grabbing the boy's hand once more he gave him a slight nod to Kota. "Come on, let's get you to a medic." Quietly, he led him after the woman. Keeping his mouth shut for now.

Socializing wasn't exactly his strong suit. As a child he was a loudmouth, and now he was sullen. Withdrawn. Never one to hide his indifference for people who felt the same he chose to remain silent. Lest he talk them out of aid.

---

[Mikazuki Aikawa]

you're gone, gone, gone away
I watched you disappear
all that's left is a ghost of you
※
Muramasa Uemon

So, the boy needed medical attention. That meant that, while she was sure they'd need to be shown around a bit later, their first stop would be at the hospital. It would be no problem, of course. Mikazuki knew how to navigate Amegakure well enough that she could probably do it with a blindfold.
    I wonder how serious it is, Mikazuki thought as they walked, giving passing glances to the boy. His injury was hidden from sight under the hat, only a few scrapes and healing bruises easily visible to her. Though, the slight sway in his walking didn't go unnoticed. Either way, I don't see any reason they won't be able to get help. Even if they have no money with them, they can work off their debts, and it's not like it'll cost any fortune. Hell, maybe if I show them to Shodaime she'll even be able to help them for free, if she has pity.
    The woman was a foreigner, herself, after all. Maybe she'd have some heartstrings pulled, and out of the goodness of her heart would do some charity work...
    Though, still, Mikazuki wouldn't bring them to the hospital right away. At least, she was certain to ask some questions first before she'd finish guiding them there.
    "So," she spoke up plainly, glancing over her shoulder to give a pointed look at the older of the two wanderers. Primarily ignoring the child, for the time being. "What's your guys' story, anyway?" It seemed that they'd found Amegakure moreso by coincidence--because that kunoichi had brought them here. But they were still travelling for some reason, right? And while a wanderer passing through country to country wasn't necessarily anything to raise an eyebrow at, in this situation Mikazuki felt particularly curious.
    The boy he was with raised several red flags.
    And unfortunately for them, she was keen on picking them up. It didn't necessarily mean that they were in any trouble--not yet at the very least--but she certainly had her questions. And, unlike the gate guard and the other shinobi woman, Mikazuki wasn't as willing to allow them full access to the village and the services they sought until she was satisfied enough with some answers.

---

369 words

MADE BY ★MEULK

[Muramasa Uemon]

raindrop harmony

---

Rain continued to pour down as they walked, some of the wanderer's unkempt wavy hair to sticking to his face.

Gloomy. Stormy. Gray. In a lot of ways he fit right in to this land. Dark eyes took in as much as he could, mentally noting his surroundings as much as he was able. As usual he was constantly on guard. Just in case. One never knew when a quick exit would be needed. And it would help him sketch out a map once they found shelter. Roughly.

It was some moments later that his gaze would come to rest on the woman. Silently watching as he led Kota behind her. Seemed like she was thinking hard on something. A suspicion proven correct as she asked him about their stories. "There isn't much of one, to be honest." The wanderer spoke, voice soft but even. Of course both of them had their individual tales... but in truth they still hadn't shared much. "I'm a swordsmith by trade. I travel for work." Adjusting his gear on his shoulder, their impromptu guide would note a sheathed katana hanging from it. As well as bandaged equipment that was now soggy. "The kid here ran into some trouble on the road... I lent a hand." Give away what was necessary. Keep the rest close. If further questions were proposed he would do his best to answer. 

Ideally leaving out that a merchant had ended up mortally wounded by Kota's knife and his hound.

Perhaps a more detailed explanation would have assuaged some doubts, but trusting strangers wasn't something he did outright. "He was traveling alone, I was headed east.. so I suggested we journey together." It was the truth. The abridged truth. Glancing to Kota the wanderer allowed the corner of his mouth to perk up ever so slightly.

Safety in numbers was a common enough sentiment, especially for lone travelers. Hopefully the story would suffice for now. Both he and the boy didn't have the most pleasant of pasts.. so if she wanted more it wouldn't come easy.

---

[Mikazuki Aikawa]

you're gone, gone, gone away
I watched you disappear
all that's left is a ghost of you
※
Muramasa Uemon

Not much to tell, the wanderer answered. Mikazuki watched his expressions carefully as he shed some light on the situation. A swordsmith, eh? she thought to herself, raising an eyebrow slightly at the mention of the trade. Well, I certainly know what direction to point him in if he's looking for that kind of work... It would be welcomed, too, she was sure. Ever since Sanosuke raised through the ranks and became the Ame Lord, there had been spots he'd left behind to fill--an apprenticeship at one of the local weapons shop among the voids. It wasn't that there weren't others to pick up jobs, but Mikazuki was certain the old man would appreciate any kind of help he could get his hands on.
    That, and Mikazuki had always had a bit of a soft spot for those who dealt in weaponry. If he was going to stay in Amegakure, there was a possibility that they could help each-other out.
    Or, at least, that he and "Squeakers" could have some kind of mutual benefit, if it came down to it.
    "I see," Mikazuki responded, satisfied enough by his answer.
    She didn't need all of the gritty details--and she didn't care enough to prod further. But the evenness of his tone, and the manner of his story seemed authentic enough.
    The boy's pathing swayed, and it seemed that the older male's hold on the child's hand was to better guide him and assure he didn't lose his balance completely or crash into something--which was alarming enough on its own, but at the very least it seemed to be in effort of aiding the kid, rather than corralling him or keeping him controlled and within reach. The boy's attention wavered, too, from what Mikazuki could note. Taking in the sights of all the dark, twisted buildings that reached to the sky--his dark eyes lingering on all of the neon sights. But even though he seemed a bit in wonder--as many strangers who witnessed Amegakure for the first time did--there did not seem to be any latent anxiety in his expression, and the tracking of his gaze didn't lead her to believe that he was looking for any opportunity to escape.
    Unlike the man.
    But that was less concerning, to the kunoichi. Significantly more understandable, really. He was in a new setting, where danger could be lurking at any corner or within any of the shadows cast by the tall buildings. He didn't know the area like she did--and even she was wary of the city. Besides, he had no reason to trust her--and if he was truly looking out for the child, then that added a whole new level of cautiousness. Something she could also take into account when studying his behavior.
    At the very least, I don't think the boy was kidnapped, she thought to herself as she continued to lead the way. I'd put it to an end immediately if I thought he was a human trafficker, but upon further inspection I don't think that's probably the case, here. Would likely have not sought medical attention at all--or at the very least, more out of the public eye. Especially when the kid was so obviously and visibly suspicious. They tended to have direct contacts and resources to rely on, and tried to fly more under the radar. Less likely to seek help from strangers.
    "So, he's just some stray you happened to pick up, then," Mikazuki affirmed. Tangled and matted hair, worn-out clothes that are ill-fitting, bloodstains and other signs of distress from years of exposure to dirt and the elements. He's skinny, too--and not the kind that happens after only a couple of days of struggling on the road. He's got signs of clear malnutrition--even his skin looks pale and unhealthy, and I can see the bones in his wrists too clearly to be comfortable. He's clearly been neglected for a long time. "So long as that's the case, you won't receive any trouble from me."
    It was a telling enough gesture, though. The young man was quiet, suspicious, and cautious--but obvious enough that he had a soft spot in his heart. A kind of kindness that Mikazuki recognized.
    Even she had taken in kids in unfortunate circumstances and given them a place to stay until they could be rehomed somewhere safe.
    She never got attached to them, but...
    A part of her could understand.
    "Though I wonder if you really have any idea what you're getting yourself into." She glanced over her shoulder to look at the stranger. "Do you even know how to take care of a kid? And if you're always travelling, do you really think it's a good idea? Maybe you had no other options at the time, but now..."

---

795 words

MADE BY ★MEULK

[Muramasa Uemon]

dark, grim sky and soul

---

Success. A pleasant surprise.

It was nice to not be getting the third degree for a change. Maybe the denizens of Arashi no Kuni were more charitable than their earthen neighbors. Or perhaps it was just that he was traveling with a child. Less scrutiny.

Observing his surroundings he pondered the differences between here and Kuwana. Certainly less sunny, less traffic in and out from the looks of it as well. Though this was a Hidden Village and the other just a city. Aesthetically the contrast was quite surprising. "If being alone makes you a stray then I guess we both are." The wanderer glanced at the woman after she spoke. Brow furrowing ever so slightly.  He wasn't sure if she meant it in a derogatory fashion, but ultimately it wasn't false. This way at least Kota would know he wasn't the only one. Saying that they wouldn't get any trouble he nodded slowly. "I appreciate that." Although he didn't expect zero surveillance during their stay, if it were any less than what he received in Kuwana it would be a welcome comfort. Shinobi and their vigilance.

Apparently, this one's extended further than normal. From his initial impression of her he wouldn't have expected the woman to be concerned about anyone. And yet... "I'm not one to make decisions lightly." His response to her, firm and even. "I won't lie and say I'm perfect guardian material... but I definitely know what not to do." Thoughts of his own mentors came to mind, whom he traveled with for many years. Neither were ideal role models for a kid.

One harsh and unforgiving, a stoic. The other a lout and a drunkard. And still they did the best they could. Provided for him. Gave him the skills needed to take care of himself. If they could do it... he would be fine. 

A chord was struck as she mentioned 'other options'. An orphanage? Adoption? The wanderer looked to the boy, his eyes softening a bit. "Kota." He crouched down so that he was eye-level with him. "I won't just abandon you... but there are other places you can stay." Looking into the child's eyes he tried to communicate the gravity of the choice. As much as he could without saying outright. "It's your choice." He paused. "What do you want to do?"

Most people would think it foolish to leave such a choice up to a child. But most people also thought of children as dumb or something akin to a pet. Kota was smart. More than that he was a survivor. He would know what was best.

---

[Kota]

Feels like We had         matching wounds But mine's still black and bruised      And yours is perfectly               fine Kota had mostly stayed quiet after their arrival to the city of rain. There wasn't much reason to talk--between his struggle to focus and his general distrust of adults and strangers, he'd had no interest in interacting with anyone or anything apart from shadowing Muramasa. He didn't like what the others had to say--some viewing him with pity for reasons he couldn't understand, looking at him like some injured puppy, and another who seemed unnecessarily adverse to the travelling duo.     Of course, Kota didn't fully understand all of the politics of villages and shinobi--but already every interaction he'd had with ninjas so far, he'd found them rather unpleasant.     Eventually he and Muramasa were lead away, and Kota continued to stay quiet as he walked along the older male's side, his attention wandering as he gawked about the city. If he'd thought Kuwana was strange and frightening, this place was ten times worse. There was no way he could survive in a place like this on his own--and while there had been plenty of green and forest in the countryside, the fact that the village was on a lake meant that he couldn't easily leave if he needed to, either.     He couldn't swim, after all.     But the boy's attention strayed when the strange woman who was guiding them made commentary to Muramasa about his decision to accompany the child. The comment of being called a stray hadn't bothered him--it seemed like an accurate term, if nothing else. And the boy didn't really see himself--or anyone else, for that matter--as really being any different than animals. So, while her blunt vocabulary didn't strike him, the suggestion--or implication, rather--that Muramasa should ditch him stirred a panic in his chest.     What's she even talking about? Kota thought, frowning as his grip on Muramasa's hand tightened. He saved my life, earlier. And he helped my injury and camped with me and didn't leave me behind even when we were travelling in the dark. She's stupid--he doesn't even need to take care of me, I can take care of myself. His heart began to race as Muramasa slowed their pace to a stop and knelt down to speak to him properly. Can't I?     He... had been a burden this entire time, hadn't he?     Kota stared at Muramasa in horror as the man asked him what he wanted to do--saying that he wouldn't abandon him, if he so chose, but...     You want to get rid of me, don't you? Tears started to dot his eyes as he glanced back at the scarred woman for a moment before returning his attention back to Muramasa. Even if he's being too nice to say it, he does, doesn't he? Kota shook his head, wiping at the tears with his spare hand before they could properly slide down his cheeks. No, he wasn't going to cry, even if the hand holding onto Muramasa's trembled. "I really do know 'ow ta do things--I can hunt an' make traps, an' fish an' I know 'ow to get water an' forage an' I know what kinda plants are good ones--really I do--" I don't know what's wrong with me. Falling asleep when I'm not even tired, and struggling to stay awake at all sometimes. I feel all dizzy and wobbly and need to hold his hand but I don't know why. I'm not normally like this. I really don't want him to think badly of me-- "I'm not normally bad I promise--" he started crying. "An' I promised I wasn't gonna run away so please don't--" Kota didn't finish his sentence, shaking his head.

✜

[Muramasa Uemon]

lone wolf, prowls all alone

---

The wanderer's mouth pursed as he witnessed the boy's reaction.

Sadness. A fear of being left behind. Both things he could relate to. Despite the unending downpour he could still feel the child's hand trembling. And as he spoke, promising that he was useful, the older man shook his head. Poor kid. "I know you can do things." He said with a nod, hearing him out as a small frown emerged. Kota was choking up, barely able to get the words out. "You must be able to, you've been all on your own." Emotion wasn't his area of expertise, but it wasn't as if he lacked empathy. He understood it well enough. It was just that his own feelings were buried so deep down they rarely had occasion to surface. "Kota..." The boy's name trailed as he stared.

Hesitantly, carefully as if he were afraid to break something fragile... he placed his free hand on the boy's shoulder.

A hug might have been more comforting, but he didn't know how to even begin to approach that. Looking into the boy's eyes he searched for a sign of understanding. "You're not bad." Memories of his own travels as a kid flashed before him. Hanagisa leaving in the the night without so much as a word. An angry boy alone in the world.

Whatever else happened, he couldn't repeat those same mistakes.

Squeezing Kota's shoulder a bit he did his best to reassure him. "Don't worry." A nod. Of course there would be times where he had to tend to other matters. Ones of blood and steel. Too dangerous for him. But he couldn't— no... he wouldn't desert him. "I'm not leaving anytime soon." A faint smile flitted across his lips. It was the best he could promise for now. Pointing to just underneath his own eye he spoke again. "You got some rain on your face." He said softly before standing to his full height. "Where I go, he goes." Was all he said in response to their escort. 

It wouldn't be the most comfortable lifestyle, or the safest. Especially for a child. But he'd watch out for the kid. Someone had to... just like he needed someone to all those years ago. The choice had been made.

---

[Kota]

Feels like We had         matching wounds But mine's still black and bruised      And yours is perfectly               fine Kota felt a wave of relief wash over him when Muramasa spoke softly in understanding. Once more, not calling him a liar, simply accepting what he said as true--which, of course, it had been. But knowing that he didn't need to try convincing the older helped ease Kota's anxiety slightly.     Carefully, Muramasa placed a hand on the boy's shoulder. His touch was always so gentle, especially in comparison to how roughly the boy was used to being handled. He was used to the complete opposite--being chased, or scolded, or hit or attacked, or being reminded that he was bad, that his actions were bad, and that what he did to try surviving was wrong. And he hadn't cared--if he was bad, or a thief, or seen and treated like a wild, feral animal, then so be it. He didn't care, so long as he was alive it didn't matter if he was good or bad--     --But Muramasa still never spoke poorly of him, even so.     Kota nodded a little at the words of affirmation, still a bit teary-eyed. He wasn't sure if anyone else thought the same way that the older wanderer did. I'm pretty sure my dad hated me, too, which is probably why he left me, the boy thought, sniffling and rubbing at his tears when Muramasa pointed out the "rain". But Muramasa doesn't think I'm useless? And he doesn't hate me, and he's still okay with me being around? "Okay, good," the boy breathed when Muramasa gave his light pledge.     Where he went, Kota went.     Yeah, he still liked the sound of that.     Kota nodded and took in a deep breath as Muramasa rose back to his feet.     Yeah, this was okay. He was okay.

✜

[Mikazuki Aikawa]

you're gone, gone, gone away
I watched you disappear
all that's left is a ghost of you
※
Muramasa Uemon

Both of them strays, hm? Mikazuki thought, raising an eyebrow slightly when the older male came to the defense of the younger, though she'd not necessarily meant it as an attack. Even if it hadn't been the most gentle observation, she had no real hostility toward the two--there was no reason for her to have any bitterness or resentment, after all. She was just... a naturally harsh person.
    It was all she really knew. What was most genuine and authentic, even if unpleasant.
    And the young man seemed determined enough in his convictions, assuring her that he wasn't the worst guardian for the boy. Clarifying that he certainly knew what kinds of things not to do--was she detecting resentment from past experiences in his tone? It didn't matter. There were a million and ten things "not" to do when raising another person, and just "not abusing" them was hardly something to praise. Being on the road, never having a stable environment, being exposed to countless risks and dangers likely on a daily--or at least monthly--basis... it was hardly ideal. Certainly not good. The amount of psychological damage it would do on a developing child--
    Mikazuki sighed and rubbed the base of her neck. Though, if he was already an orphan, and already travelling on his own, he's probably already been exposed to some pretty awful things. She frowned slightly and averted her gaze. And, I suppose... even Hotaru and I, back when our house got destroyed, and our mother was killed in the wreckage... when he and I were forced to the streets, when we were both still little kids, and I was sick and dying and couldn't do anything to help or change our situation... we were both pretty messed up. We'd both been through a lot. Both traumatized. But, we'd still had each-other. And that alone almost made it seem like it could be okay.
    She watched as the young boy cried, the older wanderer soothing his distress with an awkward display of affection, likely a bit touch-starved, himself.
    At least, until one of them dies.
    "Fine, fine, sheesh," Mikazuki relented, slightly raising her hands in defeat when the teen made his resolution. He completely folded as soon as the child showed any sign of distress. He may seem pretty stoic and collected, but he's totally got a heart of gold doesn't he? It was naive, in her mind. Telling of his own childishness, really, to allow the boy to make such ill-informed decisions for himself. The boy was too young to really know the weight of his decisions--he'd be better off, and safer, even, if he were to be taken under the wings of somebody else. An actual home, in a stable environment--and out of the shinobi world, too. Far away from any danger, or monsters, and ninjas. It shouldn't have been up to him to decide--of course the child was going to choose to stick with the teen who had been looking after him, if he'd been all alone before. He can't give informed consent, and he's way too young to decide what's best for him.
    Both of them.
    To Mikazuki, it was like a child trying to raise another child.
    Nonsense.
    The wanderers weren't fit to make difficult choices to do the right thing, and to put their feelings aside for the sake of it. But it's not my problem.
    Plenty of folk were stupid, like that.
    So long as it wasn't her responsibility, and they kept their troubles to themselves, and they weren't involved in her village--then it didn't really matter what they did. Even if the two idiots ended up wandering through life on a road that was bound to get them both hurt. Physically, or emotionally. That was their choice--and it wasn't her job to stop them.
    "Since you're such a pushover and have decided that the two of you will stick together, I suppose you'll need to get to the hospital quickly, then," Mikazuki stated, returning her pace to continue leading them away from where they had taken pause. Having gotten an even better look at the child when they'd stopped, it'd become all that much more clear what the situation was.
    And with the symptoms he was showing with a head injury like that--he was in pretty serious danger.
    But there was no reason he'd have to die. At least not now, not here. He'd survived this far, and she was certain the medics would be able to help him.
    So, she would continue to lead the way.

---

758 words

MADE BY ★MEULK

[Muramasa Uemon]

rain wet, liquid coal

---

It was decided.

No one understood the dangers of traveling than he. It was a fact he resigned himself to live with when he was ten. It wouldn't be an easy undertaking, but as long as they were smart it didn't have to be that hard either. There were ways to move about. Precautions to take. Skills to learn that could make traversing and surviving the world easier.  

With any luck he could equip the youth so that he wouldn't need anyone. Teach him how to defend himself, and anyone else that he came to care about. Make him wholly self-sufficient. That was the idea, anyway.

One that apparently their escort didn't agree with. "..." The wanderer blinked as he stared blankly at her. Dark eyes rolling off to the side a moment later. "...thought I was bad at talking to people." People and their judgements. Not that hers were invalid... but any perceived gap in maturity was certainly undercut by her insult. "You don't know anything about me." All he deigned to offer. There was no need to bare his fangs over such a trivial barb. It truly just wasn't worth his time. "Since you're so concerned... yes, a hospital's why we're here." With that, he would lead the boy after her. A bit quicker than before. The sooner they could get him treated the sooner they could plan.

Leave, stay, either way the boy's training would have to take precedence. And if this land really was as war-torn as he was led to believe, he was sure he could find work as a smith. Arms and armor were always needed. Just as they would need ryō to buy supplies. Necessities. Construction materials for their puppet-making. Important details.

After so long in Kuwana life was back to how it had been. Things always made more sense to him this way. Worst case scenario, he had another trade he could ply. Though he would prefer not to if at all possible...

---

[Mikazuki Aikawa]

you're gone, gone, gone away
I watched you disappear
all that's left is a ghost of you
※
Muramasa Uemon

Mikazuki raised an eyebrow at the teen's statement. "You don't know anything about me,", said the broody teenager with black hair in dark clothing. Give me a break, kid. He wouldn't be the only one rolling his eyes. "Please. I think I know enough. You're not a shinobi, so you probably have some kind of civilian background--" at least, he didn't openly wear a shinobi headband, and he was a self-proclaimed "stray". He'd had no issue applying the label to himself, even when she hadn't suggested it for him. And it was a word that had weight. "Most travelers either have some sort of zeal and passion for adventure--which your deadpan expressions and deary appearance lead me to believe you don't have much zeal for anything in relation to this world or life--they're merchants or have some other kind of profession that needs them to travel for the sake of their livelihood, or they're criminals or runaways who have no choice but to be on the run. Now, tell me, kid, which are you? Because you claim that you're a swordsmith by trade, but most swordsmiths work best at a forge or workshop, which is usually a planted location. So, what, you chose to live on your own, braving the dangers of this violent, unrelenting world? For fun? Or was it because you were uprooted from your home by some kind of natural disaster or tragedy?" His profession, to her, didn't seem like the kind of thing one mastered while on the road with next to no proper resources. It sounded more like a background of his that he was scrambling to put to use when the opportunity rose because it was one of the only skills he could offer in desperate situations.
    "Most people don't choose to wander, and your edgy attitude tells me you probably weren't given much of a choice, were you. Even despite how dangerous it can be to travel on your own--which if you've been doing it for a long time, now, and you at least seem to be acquainted with the lifestyle if you're a travelling swordsmith as you claim--then you know how one strike of chance, one fated meeting of the wrong person, or the wrong place, or the wrong time, in this world, is incredibly dangerous. Deadly, S-ranked criminals who could overpower you and take your life in an instant--just because you looked at them the wrong way, or a monster that really just likes the scent of human blood, or crossing a border without realizing it was on lockdown and now you're a target by a whole squad of shinobi. Surely I don't need to tell you about the dangers, right? So for you to brave all of that alone--that tells me, too, that either you're stupid and think more highly of your ability than you ought to, you're afraid of drawing too much attention to yourself by moving in a large group like any normal wandering professions might want to, or, perhaps you're just traumatized and have trust issues, hm?" She scoffed. "But the sight of some poor kid who's also braving the dangers of the world alone pulls at your heartstrings because you're not completely cold and callous, and your resolution suddenly starts to waver because you found some poor soul who reminds you too much of yourself, and you think, maybe, perhaps, even though you've struggled and been through a lot, maybe you can spare someone else those same hardships. So you're guided by your emotions more than you probably like to pretend you are." She raised an eyebrow. "Anything strike true?" Of course, she didn't know everything about him--they'd only just met. It would be impossible for her to. But first impressions meant a great deal to her, and she knew a thing or two about reading people. Besides. "I don't know everything about you, but your actions give yourself away. Most people put on a persona that they want people to see, but completely forget to mask every other detail. Most people will betray themselves with all kinds of tells, and you're no different."
    So he could cut it out with that mysterious, edgy act. Claiming she didn't know anything about him. She wasn't buying it.
    "And I'm not concerned," the woman stated, walking up the steps toward the hospital entrance. "You're outsiders. Wanderers. Whatever happens to the two of you doesn't impact me at all. You could both die, for all I care."

SPOILER: Click to show

Analytical Inteligence
Mikazuki is extremely perceptive and thinks logically – which can give her a great edge over enemy shinobi. Due to her application of knowledge, perception, and analytical skills, Mikazuki can easily dissect a situation and come up with conclusions based on her observations. Picking up on little details and putting reason behind it makes her an intimidating foe. Although she cannot figure everything out right off the bat, Mikazuki is able to analyze things on a much deeper level than most others could at her level.

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748 words

MADE BY ★MEULK

[Muramasa Uemon]

clouds spread their jewelry;

---

One would be forgiven for thinking the gates of hell had opened up.

An endless, preachy, extremely self-assured hell. The wanderer's expression remained mostly neutral as it usually did, eyes narrowing only slightly as the woman started in. On and on she went. Then on some more. A scathing critique from a total stranger. If he were more in tune with his own feelings he might've exploded in anger. Or felt hurt.

But the truth of it was... he simply did not care. "Done?" A hint of snark tinged his question. "Good." Placing his free hand in his jacket pocket his brow furrowed a bit more. She asked if she hit the mark. "Closer than I expected, further than you wanted." Internally, he debated even dignifying her spiel with a response. It would probably rub her the wrong way, which would be satisfying enough in and of itself. But since they were already here, why not? "Firstly, a killer-for-hire talking to anyone about passion or zeal is laughable. Especially one as blatantly anti-social as you. Or it would be... if it wasn't so sad." His voice was even. Unwavering. Confrontation wasn't necessarily something he craved... but years of bantering back-and-forth with Suppa had its uses, he supposed. "I'm guessing you don't know many smiths. We make weapons, then sell them. Unless you own a forge yourself— and most who aren't already established don't, deliveries of commissions are pretty common." Famous artisans received patronage and had people seek them out. Otherwise, one went where the demand was. These days demand was everywhere.

Plenty of aspiring swordmakers had sought out his family once upon a time hoping to apprentice with them. Or even other masters seeking information or hopes of comparing high-quality works. It really wasn't all that uncommon. Not in his experience, anyway. Tradesmen traveled for work. Just like merchants or shinobi.

Which is why listening to this was grating. "If I'm edgy, you're the edge." Had he been the scoffing type he would have. If he was dark and mysterious she was pitch black and unknowable. Alas, there was more to cover. To his increasing annoyance. "Obviously travel is dangerous." He spoke, shaking his head. "I'm sure you'd prefer the alternative though. Growing up inside a Hidden Village. Lied to about the glory of war and the heroism of ninja. Coerced into a system that creates child soldiers. Groomed to be a killing machine from the time you can walk and manipulated into thinking it was your own idea." The wanderer glanced to Kota, and then back to her. Sure it was all 'voluntary'. Like every kid raised in a village wasn't pressured at every turn. "Are your parents proud?" He asked, a scowl beginning to form. "That you're an assassin and spy, I mean." For a moment he let the question hang. Looking around at his surroundings once more. If it weren't for the smattering of traffic and lights, this place could easily be mistaken for a desolate grey warzone. The interesting part is that it had been. Multiple times before in the past. "Perfectly safe... what's the average lifespan in your profession again?" Best efforts aside, a hint of contempt seeped into his words. It had come to him before, of course, but saying it out loud put things into perspective.

Samurai, ninja... they were one in the same. Killers all of them. As dangerous or more in some case as the dangers they claimed to protect others from. "How many civilians die because of their petty squabbles?" He wondered.

For one to stand and criticize him was a joke. Just not a very funny one. "I'm bad at pretending, actually. So I don't." The wanderer quipped back, still glaring. But as he did so and thought of going on... his face righted itself. A realization. "Not like you." A more expressive person might've feigned a pitied look. But the truth, or what he perceived to be the truth, was emphatic enough. "No... my guess is you've been pretending your whole life." And with that, he was done. Surely there was no need to justify himself to anyone, especially her. She said she wasn't concerned? "Great." Still holding Kota's hand he walked past her, entering the hospital. "If that's the case, you can go back to... what was it? Sacrificing babies?" Yeah, that was it. Plenty of other children around for the taking.  

From his impression of her, she'd be plenty busy. A thought occurred, which he grumbled. "A regular Ame-onna."

Grumbling under his breath he entered the facility and led the boy to the reception area. Showing the staff the seal he'd gained upon entry at the gates he explained to them Kota's injury. Treatment for him was the priority, after all.

---

SPOILER: Click to show

SPECIAL ABILITIES:

PUPPETMASTER - INTELLIGENCE

A natural strategist with a quick mind, Uemon is always observing even in the midst of combat. This allows for him to find gaps and weaknesses in his opponent's techniques easier than some, and allows him to formulate strategies and deceptions to take advantage of these shortcomings. His knack for tactics cues him on which approach should work best depending on his target.