[Saigo Shigeo]

The day he became Genin, interest from the people of Takigakure shifted in his direction. More specifically, certain individuals who had not carefully monitored his time in the Academy suddenly started asking questions. Whether it came as gossip among other Genin or whispers from more seasoned Shinobi, Shigeo had begun to felt a heavier burden forming on his shoulders.

It culminated at last when the summons arrived in early morning, taking him entirely by surprise. His father was absent, gone no doubt away for work. They kept missing each other. He had wanted to celebrate his Academy graduation, and perhaps give the man something to be happy about in the time since they had lost Shigeo's mother. Every time he broached the subject, it never seemed to be a good time.

Shigeo started to believe a "good" time might never come again.

He had made his bed. Since childhood, he'd wanted to see the world. Born in a Hidden Village, the best and perhaps only real way to accomplish that was the life of a Ninja. Now, faced with the Seal of the Village's Lady, Shigeo swallowed despite his throat being dry. It was a mid-day invitation, nothing especially formal, but for him to receive a direct request was unnerving.

His achievement was menial at best, something that other Genin managed to do younger than he had. His anxiety mounted, and he could feel the paper crumple in his hand entirely by accident.

After breakfast, he had a shower, and he changed the dressings and bandages out for cleaner, whiter ones before donning his brown hakama. Sliding his zori over his socks, he made his way out into town and toward the building where it was designated that he would meet the Lady of Takigakure personally for the first time.

When he got to the door, he knocked three times, and waited.

Mikatakujira Kunikunosaku