[Yuki Shizuha]

Ice is as cold as your heart once you face the fury of me.

---

With the letter arriving from the Lord of Kusagakure, Shizuha was quite confused on why she was receiving a letter from someone like him. Pulling out his letter as well as a green cloth it seems to be the case of her being invited to the Chuunin Exams this year. Just like most Genin that approach this point in their life this is the next big thing for her. Becoming a Chuunin means that she is able to do more things for her village but the only thing that is stopping her is the other contestant participating with the Exams.

Approaching her stop, she was just outside of Kusa no Yume, an outpost just south of the border of Bonchi no Kuni and east to Tsuchi no Kuni. Wrapping the cloth that was provided to her around her arm so that she was identified as a contestant to the Chuunin exams. Remembering the note, she was left with to find this first clue was quite interesting. Looking at the map she notices mountains to the west but a river to the east. Although the hint gives off a strange hint about ice, she decided to follow her gut and head east toward the river. Getting close to seeing the river though it started to get dark and harder to see so she starts to prep up on getting some rest.

It was a lot different here than Yukigakure as for the weather which made her happy to know she didn’t bring something thicker for her as it is quite humid here. But by the time the night sky started to bright up she decided to head towards the river that was just outside of her range of sight.

---

Notes go here

🗡️

[Hisakawa Yamato]

0 Clues Found

@all

Kusa no Umi was one of the more vital outposts of Nohara no Kuni, and upon Shizuha's arrival she was able to clearly see why. The encampment oversaw a great deal of land, especially countries' borders, but it also held control of a bridge over the river to the east. With nightfall approaching, it was vital for Shizuha to keep the 1st rule in mind, but so long as she remained outside the protection of a village or outpost at night, she'd be fine.

As Shizuha approached the river, the key bridge that the outpost guarded would very plainly come into view. It was an impressive piece of architecture, but it wasn't the only constructed object in site. There seemed to be a few makeshift docks surrounding the bridge as well, small, river-boats tied to them and bobbing peacefully in the running river. By the docks was a solitary wooden structure, though from the looks of it, nobody seemed to be home. More notably, there was a lonely figure sitting at the docks, a dark silhouette in the dim light. Approaching the figure would reveal that he was a man somewhere in his mid 30's, sporting a light jacket to stave off the cold of the night, and a fishing pole in his hand. Alternatively, Shizuha could also choose to camp out for the night, visiting the military outpost during the day to search for her clue.
Extra notes;

♥ Chou

[Yuki Shizuha]

Ice is as cold as your heart once you face the fury of me.

---

Holding her position just outside of the outpost in the woods she spotted the bridge that seems to connect the village east of the river to the outpost that protects it. With it being night, Shizuha knows the rules of being inside of the village and or outpost at night. With that though she would keep a lookout toward the village seeing a strange figure near the bridge. She would watch him as the sun would slowly rise from the shadows of the horizon.

Once morning she looked over at the bridge once more to see the man still there. Was this the person to give her a clue or just some strange person just trying to get food for his family. From her clue it involved with water that flows which would consist of a river. With that she decided to start moving towards the bridge keeping a calm posture. When getting close to the bridge, she starts making it look like she was trying to find a way up without triggering the fisher nearby. It would be a perfect time for her to try and get something for breakfast but the only thing that is keeping her is the lack of ability to get the fish.

WC: 208

---

Notes go here

🗡️

[Hisakawa Yamato]

0 Clues Found

@all

The fisherman would continue his work for a few hours into the night, though because Shizuha never approached, he would eventually finish his work, gathering up his things and entering the nearby wooden building. With the morning sun now coming up, there was now only one more day left for the Yuki genin to find her first clue. From Kusa no Umi especially, Shizuha would be able to hear the sounds of activity, in the form of a morning reveille. Despite waiting all night, the girl's options hadn't really changed all that much. She could choose to knock on the door of the wooden house and see if the fisherman had any hints to give, or she could instead head on into the military outpost.

Extra notes;

♥ Chou

[Yuki Shizuha]

Ice is as cold as your heart once you face the fury of me.

---

After failing to catch the mans attention Shizuha would look over at the cabin that he would eventually settle in then turn towards the outpost. Instead of making things weird she decided it was only best to head over to the outpost. Hoping that this would give her the clue she’s looking for. With that she starts heading over that way.

Walking for a while it was still early in the morning and has plenty of time to travel throughout the area to find this hint. But first she decided it was a good start to head towards the Outpost. If anyone was willing to help her was another thing but since she’s part of the exams it might catch someone’s eye and might be able to direct her the right way.

Checking to make sure the cloth was still on her arm though she approached the outpost. It was bigger than expected and had quite a bit of military personnel guarding it. With little to no options left it was only a matter of time until she approached the entrance of the outpost seeing if anyone might be able to help her out with the hint she’s supposed to get.

WC: 201

---

Notes go here

🗡️

[Hisakawa Yamato]

1 Clue Found

@all

The outpost was manned by a few hundred shinobi, so Shizuha's approach would immediately noted. Meeting her at the entrance to the outpost was a fiery-headed individual, Kusagakure symbol proudly displayed on his headband. He seemed to be only a few years older than the Yuki genin, and he was quick to note the green armband on her person, as well as her own village insignia.

"Ohoho, a genin from Yuki eh? Well, welcome to Nohara no Kuni, took ya long enough to get here! Anyways, I'm supposed to give you this." Clipped to his flak jacket was a small pouch, which he promptly unclipped and handed to the girl. When she opened it up, she'd find a set of 5 shuriken, along with a small paper note with the following,

Travelling by land,
cumbersome and slow.
So grab a boat,
pair of oars and row.

Past the river's split,
following the west.
Until Kawauchi,
where animals find rest.

Once again, you have 2 days, good luck!

The Kusagakure shinobi wasn't quite done aiding Shizuha yet though. Gesturing for her to follow along, the red-head led the girl back towards the river, pointing to one of the boats tied to the dock.

"They said to give you that boat too, so... wherever you're going, good luck!"

Extra notes;

♥ Chou

[Yuki Shizuha]

Ice is as cold as your heart once you face the fury of me.

---

After finally being approached by a Grass shinobi she knew that the was in the right place. It was only the matter of where they’re wanting her to go next. As the man handed her over the items, she’s needed for the next part she was partly confused on why the shurikens. But she took them anyways as well as read what the note has to say.

She read it once or twice thinking about the boats that she saw at the bridge. But as she was done reading it the third time the Chuunin had her follow him as he pointed out a boat that they were giving her for this next task. It was still pretty early in the day so she had plenty of time to get there but what could be on her way there is another thing. With a kind gesture and a wave as well as a goodbye she was off. Paddling her way through the river. Luckily, it seems like the river was helping with the travels a little.

It was only an hour in and she was remembering with what the note said. She was supposed to go west at the split and then find a little village name Kawauchi. Seems simple enough but it was only what’s out there that made her think why they gave her five shurikens.

WC:228

---

Notes go here

🗡️

[Hisakawa Yamato]

1 Clue Found

@all

Riding the boat down Nohara no Kuni's main river would prove to be quite simple, though Shizuha would most definitely need to keep her wits about her. The river had many bends, and a bit of rowing would be necessary to keep from hitting the banks. Still, there'd be no real danger as the Yuki genin traveled, and she'd be treated to the different types of landscapes Field Country had to offer. It was all mostly flat, but there was still a bit of variety, from more stony flatlands, to tall grassy plains, to the occasional village, and even a forest or two.

The genin would also have to make sure to stop her boat at the appropriate time, using whatever navigational skills she had, and bring the boat towards the bank and travel on foot. So long as Shizuha managed all that, she would be well on her way to Kawauchi, though she'd be able to see what made the village unique before seeing the village itself. All around the outskirts of the town were ranches and pastures, and she'd be able to spot more than the occasional sheep, cow, and horse. The Yuki genin could choose to search for her next clue nearby/within one of the nearby animals farms, or head towards the village of Kawauchi itself, where there was a number of facilities dedicated to processing animal products: places like cheese factories or textile shops.

Extra notes;

♥ Chou

[Yuki Shizuha]

Ice is as cold as your heart once you face the fury of me.

---

While rowing down the river, Shizuha would look around while approaching the fork in the river. By remembering which way was west she would proceed to head that way by turning to the right. Seeing how green the countryside is amazes her. Being in the snow for too long makes anyone amazed on how vegetation looks. Most of the contestants probably know what this looks like and is probably already sick of it. But for Shizuha it was like she was on a whole new world.

Coming up towards the village the message that was left her she can see why they mention about animals resting. The village seemed to be big in the agriculture of farm animals. And although it was getting late she pulled the boat up against the dock but quickly pulled away from the village just for safe keepings of the rules for the exams. As for what she should do when it turns morning was another thing. The best thing for her to do was maybe try and talk to one of the residences near the animals outside the village and if nothing comes up maybe head into the village and go from there. But for now she would get some rest as well something to eat that she got at the bridge earlier.

WC:219

---

Notes go here

🗡️

[Hisakawa Yamato]

1 Clue Found

@all

With night approaching, Shizuha wisely chose to bide her time, resting on the outskirts of the vilalge as to avoid breaking one of the rules of the exams. The night would pass by uneventfully, though if she was wandering about in the darkness she might encounter one of the ever-present ashigaru patrolling the roads. They'd definitely question her on her business, though if she promptly explained that she was a participant of the exams, and presented her armband appropriately, there wouldn't be any trouble.

When morning arrived, the options initially available to the Yuki genin wouldn't have changed. The closest farm seemed to be one of the cattle variety, fenced in on all sides, with a clear path marked out for anyone looking to visit the farmhouse.

Extra notes;

♥ Chou

[Yuki Shizuha]

Ice is as cold as your heart once you face the fury of me.

---

While the night came, Shizuha decided to hand tight just outside of the village near the river. Although she can hear the soldiers patrolling the area if they suspect her presents she would explain to them that she’s participating in the Chuunin exams as well as show the armband presented to her at the beginning of the exams.

Through out the night it was peaceful with nothing much going on besides a couple of foot soldiers shining their lights in her general direction.

When sunlight hits she gather her things and started to head out towards the first farmhouse she sees. If anyone might be able to help her maybe it was them even if it’s involve actually going into the village and gather information there.

While moving towards the farmhouse she notice workers out on the farm. It looked like a big family or other people from the village to come and help with the farm. Although it was always cold up in Yukigakure she’s was quite amazed on how many people would come out of their own way to help the farmers.

As she approaches the farmhouse, she sees a man and a woman which looked like they’re the owners of the farm. They looked like they were fairly young barely old enough to have children but with none the less she approaches them with a calm posture. Unsure what to say she waved at them.

"Hello, I’m a participant from the Exams that going on. I was hinted to come around this general area for my next clue. Would you be able you help me?” She sounded nervous the whole time but kept a clear posture to make it sound like she was completely scared. With her headband beaming some light into the ground next to them showing the Snow's symbol in the ground.

WC:307

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Notes go here

🗡️

[Hisakawa Yamato]

1 Clue Found

@all

The cool morning air was the ideal time for farmers of all kinds to begin their work, and these particular people were no different. They were alerted to Shizuha's presence well before she actually appeared in their vision, their loyal farm dog sitting up the moment he caught scent of a stranger. Still, they were able to see that she wasn't hostile, especially after her straightforward greeting. The woman looked up from her work, in this case milking one of their prized cows. She looked quizzically to her husband who was just a few meters away, though he seemed to be just as lost as her, if not more.

"The exams eh? Well, I'll be, we didn't even realize they were being held in Nohara no Kuni this year. Can't say I know anything about a clue..." The man paused to meet his wife's gaze, who coughed and was giving him a not-so-subtle look. "... but, I s'pose I could maybe help you out, though I've got quite a few chores to take care of first. Maybe if ya help me out I can help you find what you're looking for sooner?"

From here, Shizuha could choose to help the farmer with his morning duties, which would consist a variety of tasks like assisting him in feeding his animals or collecting animals products such as eggs and milk. Or, the Yuki genin could decline to help the farmers, choosing to spend her time looking for her clue elsewhere.

Extra notes;

♥ Chou

[Yuki Shizuha]

Ice is as cold as your heart once you face the fury of me.

---

After she explained to the two farmers about her situation it seemed like they didn’t know what was going on as of the Exams. It wasn’t a problem for her. Although they did offer to help her find what she’s looking for the only thing she had to do was to help around their farm with some chores. Just like home this shouldn’t be that bad. Although back at home they didn’t run a farm. But the whole experience for Shizuha was being in another country so everything was different for her for the most part.

"I’ll love to help. No harm in helping out. I really appreciate your help as well.”

It was only a few chores, and it was the beginning of the day so she had plenty of time. Who knows? It might be just as fun as the ones that her father have her do back at home. "Where would you like me to help you out at first?” She said.

Thankfully for Shizuha, she’s slowly getting use to talking to strangers. Unlike Yukigakure where everyone knows her. It was a bigger world out there with many people who don’t know you at all. Some of them are friendly and some of them absolutely divine one another.

---

Notes go here

🗡️

[Hisakawa Yamato]

1 Clue Found

@all

A faint smile appeared on the man's face when Shizuha agreed to help, dusting off his hands as he gestured for the girl to follow him.

"Oh with your help we'll be done in no time. We'll start with feeding the horses."

The farmer led the way to a nearby storage shed, unlocking the door and revealing an assortment of bags, buckets, and what was clearly food for the many animals on the farm. Pointing to one of the buckets, the farmer grabbed one for himself, plopping it just in front one of the bags and reaching in.

"Just fill the bucket up 'bout three quarters of the way, and then we'll take it over to the horses."

In the bag was a large amount of grain, as well as scoops for transporting it. The farmer would wait for Shizuha to match his actions, filling the buckets and then once again gesturing for her to follow along. The duo would head back into the barn where the farmer's wife was still working on milking the cow, but they'd continue walking past until they reached the far end of the stables, revealing two pens for two horses. The horses greeted the farmer and Shizuha with exited snorts, stepping away from the gate so that the food could be given to them.

The rest of the morning followed in a similar fashion, with the farmer guiding Shizuha through a number of various tasks, most involving feeding the rest of the animals kept on the farm. With the Yuki genin's help, they were just about done as midday approached, and the farmer invited Shizuha to join him and his wife for some lunch.

Extra notes;

♥ Chou

[Yuki Shizuha]

Ice is as cold as your heart once you face the fury of me.

---

After hearing the excitement from the male farmer after she agreed to help them made her happy. It was always nice to help someone and see them happy than ignoring them. With that though she would listen to him and follow. Although they have animals back up in Yukigakure, she never fed any of them before.

Approaching the storage shed, she was amazed on all the instruments a farmer needs to take care of a farm. Grabbing a bucket and putting the feed he pointed to her into the bucket she would grab a scoop and then follow the farmer once more. Walking toward the barn and pass his wife they would walk to the pens of the two horses. Waiting for the farmer to open the pin she would walk in and stick her arm out so the horse can greed her before giving them a pat it.

After giving them their food, she would continue to help with the farmers chores which was pretty much the same thing as before. After getting everything done the farmer offered her to join them for lunch. With a slight bow she would accept their offer just to wait on how the farmer would proceed to help her get where she needs to go for the exams.

WC: 215

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Notes go here

🗡️