[Shouki Yashura]

Another day, another mission.

This one was going to take Yashura to the northern part of Mizu no Kuni, towards one of the many outposts set up to overlook the country's vast ocean border. The girl was dressed for the occasion - her kimono and haori's colors changed from bright butterfly-like appearance to that of waves and sea foam, combining dark blue and white colors to look both beautiful, and practical. The material was warmer, too, to protect the body from cold, harsh winds. She brought a backpack too, with essentials necessary for a long, boring stay.

Yashura waited by the Northern Gates, looking forward to meeting her familiar partner for the mission again. A girl named An, from the Gure clan. The honest, straight-forward sort. She quite liked her, and had prepared sweets to share. Perhaps in time, they could become good friends. And good friends mean good favors. As well as potential improvements in relations between two clans. They had no reason to quarrel, thus cooperation was sought after. Right now, though, the older girl was munching on her favorite caramel apple as she waited. 

Like before, they had to present the papers to be let out of the village, and start their trek to the north. There was a small cart nearby, with a peasant who had just sold his goods at the local market. "You would not mind giving me and my friend, who is about to show up, a ride up the northern road, kind sir?" 

The young man did not mind at all. Not with the small amount of ryo attached to the offer, and a pleasant smile he was rewarded with. All that was needed now was for An to show up~

[Gurē An]

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The winter air bit at An's cheeks as she stepped out of her house in Kirigakure. The chill in the air was a constant reminder of the need for extra layers, a lesson learned well from her grandmother's persistent reminders. Today's mission with Genin Team 2 would take them to the northern part of Mizu no Kuni, promising even colder temperatures by the sea. With a cheerful "Ittekimaaaasu~," An set-off, her grandmother waving from the doorway.
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Anticipation bubbled within her. An was thrilled to be teamed up once again with Yashura. Their previous encounter had left a positive impression, from Yashura's demeanor to her impressive skills. An couldn't shake the feeling that they were destined to become good friends. In the world of ninja teams, where compatibility was not always guaranteed, An considered herself fortunate.
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Arriving at the meeting point, An found Yashura already there, a friendly "Ohayougozaimasu!" escaping her lips. As they settled into the cart provided for their journey, Yashura surprised An by having completed the necessary paperwork. Grateful, An smiled, "Thank you, Yashura-san. How have you been lately?" She initiated a light conversation, determined to make the trip more enjoyable and genuinely interested in Yashura's well-being. The cart rolled out of the village, the two Genin ready for the mission that awaited them in the frigid northern lands.
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SPOILER: Click to show

真菌操作| Shinkin Sōsa [lit.Fungal Manipulation]
[break][break]
An can grow, shape, and manipulate all forms of fungi, including but not limited to yeasts and mold, along with poisonous and non-poisonous mushrooms, thanks to the Gurē clan's KKG. An has the ability to grow fungi on just about any surface. Because An’s genetic makeup is more similar to that of fungi than that of humans, she can use techniques based on Fungi anatomy, such as secretions or enzymes from various Fungi. She can easily generate or grow any part of a Fungi's anatomy from her own body by using chakra to further alter her own cells. Finally, because these techniques are made from her own cells or bodily fluids, such as converting her saliva into a specific Fungi secretion, An is immune to their effects.
[break][break]
共生遺伝学| Kyōsei Iden-Gaku [lit.Symbiotic Genetics]
[break][break]
As a member of the Gurē clan, An has gained the potential to combine her body with flora and the ground itself because of the similarities in her genetic makeup to fungi. She is able to link her chakra to the underground network of organic matter, which includes plant roots, water veins, and decomposing materials. For example, An can hide in things like trees, shrubs and roots, soil, and so on. Once fused, not only is her presence completely hidden and only felt by those with chakra recognition, but it also allows her to travel within the subterranean web of organic matter up to 1 km before needing to emerge.
[break][break]
蒼波| Sōha [lit.Blue Wave]
[break][break]
An possesses significantly larger and more formidable chakra reserves compared to her peers. This advantage enables her to execute various jutsu without rapidly depleting her chakra, granting her a distinct advantage in combat situations and the capacity to maintain prolonged, intensive chakra utilization. Consequently, she can employ advanced techniques for extended durations surpassing the capabilities of most individuals within her rank.

[attr="class","ooc-area"]WORD: 222
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Shouki Yashura

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[Shouki Yashura]

"An-san~"

Yashura smiled, as she saw the girl show up, just as she talked the farmer to let them come along riding his cart. Such a chipper and polite child. And a pleasant company for the trip. The girl would not call this one her friend just yet. But it was all in the making. To cultivate a friendship that may be useful today as well as later. 

"I've been fine. Are you ready to go? This nice man offered us a ride."

"But it was you who asked..."

"Hush. It is time for us to leave, soon enough. The trip will take some time, so the sooner we get there, the better."

The girl would hop on the cart and offer An a hand to get there as well. Once that was done, the gates were open, and their trip would begin. Slowly but steadily, as fast as the cart would take them. Reaching into her bag, Yashura pulled out a baggie with an assortment of caramel sweets. 

"Would you like some? I noticed you have a sweet tooth."

A white lie. It was Yashura who had a sweet tooth. But she needed an excuse to indulge, while not looking greedy. Poor optics for a public first impression, that. 

[Gurē An]

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An accepted Yashura's hand with a grateful smile, appreciating the gesture. As they settled into the cart, Yashura's casual demeanor put An at ease, making the prospect of the journey more enjoyable. The cold wind tousled their hair as the cart set off, leaving Kirigakure behind.
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"Arigatou, Yashura-san," An replied, taking note of the caramel sweets. The warmth radiating from the small bag in Yashura's hands offered a stark contrast to the chilly air around them. An couldn't help but chuckle at Yashura's remark about her sweet tooth, realizing that perhaps it was a subtle way for Yashura to enjoy the treats herself without appearing overly eager.
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"Yes, please! I do enjoy sweets," An confessed with a twinkle in her eye, accepting a caramel with gratitude. The sweetness of the treat mingled with the cold air, creating a delightful contrast. As they chatted about the mission, An felt a sense of camaraderie building. Yashura's openness and willingness to share the sweets hinted at a budding friendship, one that An looked forward to nurturing during their journey to the frigid northern lands. The mission ahead seemed more promising with Yashura's company, and An couldn't wait to face the challenges that awaited them together and gain new experiences.
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The journey so far seemed to be going smoothly.
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SPOILER: Click to show

真菌操作| Shinkin Sōsa [lit.Fungal Manipulation]
[break][break]
An can grow, shape, and manipulate all forms of fungi, including but not limited to yeasts and mold, along with poisonous and non-poisonous mushrooms, thanks to the Gurē clan's KKG. An has the ability to grow fungi on just about any surface. Because An’s genetic makeup is more similar to that of fungi than that of humans, she can use techniques based on Fungi anatomy, such as secretions or enzymes from various Fungi. She can easily generate or grow any part of a Fungi's anatomy from her own body by using chakra to further alter her own cells. Finally, because these techniques are made from her own cells or bodily fluids, such as converting her saliva into a specific Fungi secretion, An is immune to their effects.
[break][break]
共生遺伝学| Kyōsei Iden-Gaku [lit.Symbiotic Genetics]
[break][break]
As a member of the Gurē clan, An has gained the potential to combine her body with flora and the ground itself because of the similarities in her genetic makeup to fungi. She is able to link her chakra to the underground network of organic matter, which includes plant roots, water veins, and decomposing materials. For example, An can hide in things like trees, shrubs and roots, soil, and so on. Once fused, not only is her presence completely hidden and only felt by those with chakra recognition, but it also allows her to travel within the subterranean web of organic matter up to 1 km before needing to emerge.
[break][break]
蒼波| Sōha [lit.Blue Wave]
[break][break]
An possesses significantly larger and more formidable chakra reserves compared to her peers. This advantage enables her to execute various jutsu without rapidly depleting her chakra, granting her a distinct advantage in combat situations and the capacity to maintain prolonged, intensive chakra utilization. Consequently, she can employ advanced techniques for extended durations surpassing the capabilities of most individuals within her rank.

[attr="class","ooc-area"]WORD: 215
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Shouki Yashura

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[Shouki Yashura]

"This is our stop."

The chattering about meaningless nothings had to come to an end at some point. The young peasant had to drive onward, to his village, while they had to make their way to the shoreline. Yashura's kimono fluttered a bit in the breeze. One could guess why she chose that one. It was camouflage - against the dark blue waters, the foam of the waves, and the gray, pebble-covered shore, she was like a blurry afterimage. In the distance, one could see the old scouting post. Derelict, and dilapidated - the sea and its salty air ate away at anything built by humans. 

Yashura smiled. She liked the scents of the seawater, and the wind hitting her in the face. Reaching to her hair, she undid the pins, and let her long inky hair flutter in the wind, before making it into a simple ponytail behind her back. Adapting a very boyish, almost samurai-like appearance, which was only augmented by the sword on her side.

The two would go on, walking across the uneven pebbled ground, towards the outpost.

"This place is falling apart." - Yashura said, about the sorry state of the building. "We should set up a spot to observe the surrounding area, without being seen. Should any bad men see the outpost is defended only by two girls, they'd be willing to try their luck..." - she mused, as she knelt down and picked up one of the rocks. Placing an explosive tag on it, she put it back, with the tag face-down. Walking along the perimeter, she made a few more of these 'mines', a perimeter around the position. Urging An to do something similar, if she had the gear.

"And if we bother to tidy it up, they would know someone's there. We won't have an element of surprise, then." - she explained her plan. 

It made sense, at least in her mind. 

[Gurē An]

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An observed the coastline with a keen interest as they neared the derelict outpost. The rhythmic sounds of the crashing waves and the salty sea air filled the atmosphere, setting the stage for their impending mission. Yashura's transformation from a casual companion to a strategic, focused operative intrigued An. The way her kimono blended seamlessly with the surroundings hinted at a depth of experience and adaptability that An admired.
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As Yashura's inky hair danced in the wind, An couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie deepening between them. The mission had taken on a more serious tone, and An appreciated Yashura's practical approach to securing their position. The idea of setting up discreet explosive tags to create a defensive perimeter resonated with An's training.
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"That is true. It doesn't look the best. Smart thinking, Yashura-san," An acknowledged, mimicking the process along the outpost's perimeter, thought borrowing a few explosive tags from Yashura as she had not brought any. The crunch of pebbles under her boots punctuated the serious tone of their preparations. An understood the delicate balance between maintaining a hidden presence and being ready for any potential threats. Yashura's reasoning about the element of surprise made sense, and An respected her strategic mindset.
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The collaboration felt natural, a shared purpose uniting them against the backdrop of the aging outpost and the expansive sea. As they worked, An couldn't help but feel a growing confidence in their ability to face whatever challenges lay ahead, appreciating the unique bond forming between the two allies.
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"I think this should be good enough," An said as she looked around, now they just needed to be careful and not set any off themselves as they retreated into the outpost.
[break][break]

SPOILER: Click to show

真菌操作| Shinkin Sōsa [lit.Fungal Manipulation]
[break][break]
An can grow, shape, and manipulate all forms of fungi, including but not limited to yeasts and mold, along with poisonous and non-poisonous mushrooms, thanks to the Gurē clan's KKG. An has the ability to grow fungi on just about any surface. Because An’s genetic makeup is more similar to that of fungi than that of humans, she can use techniques based on Fungi anatomy, such as secretions or enzymes from various Fungi. She can easily generate or grow any part of a Fungi's anatomy from her own body by using chakra to further alter her own cells. Finally, because these techniques are made from her own cells or bodily fluids, such as converting her saliva into a specific Fungi secretion, An is immune to their effects.
[break][break]
共生遺伝学| Kyōsei Iden-Gaku [lit.Symbiotic Genetics]
[break][break]
As a member of the Gurē clan, An has gained the potential to combine her body with flora and the ground itself because of the similarities in her genetic makeup to fungi. She is able to link her chakra to the underground network of organic matter, which includes plant roots, water veins, and decomposing materials. For example, An can hide in things like trees, shrubs and roots, soil, and so on. Once fused, not only is her presence completely hidden and only felt by those with chakra recognition, but it also allows her to travel within the subterranean web of organic matter up to 1 km before needing to emerge.
[break][break]
蒼波| Sōha [lit.Blue Wave]
[break][break]
An possesses significantly larger and more formidable chakra reserves compared to her peers. This advantage enables her to execute various jutsu without rapidly depleting her chakra, granting her a distinct advantage in combat situations and the capacity to maintain prolonged, intensive chakra utilization. Consequently, she can employ advanced techniques for extended durations surpassing the capabilities of most individuals within her rank.

[attr="class","ooc-area"]WORD: 286
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Shouki Yashura

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[Shouki Yashura]

The tag field was finished, within a little while.

Some tags were farther away, while the other - closer to the outpost. Placed in a checkerboard pattern, to make sure it wasn't easily bypassed. It took all of Yashura's tags though, since An did not bring her own. 'Travels light...' - Yashura evaluated, in her own mind; 'Likely expects to solve most of her problems with that big blade of hers. Hmm... easily corrected.' 

The structure itself was a two-story wooden hut, held above ground on eight thick wooden pillars. Right now, it looked like a tower. During the tide, though - more like a floating house. These were never permanently occupied - no village had enough people to garrison thousands of these along the entirety of the shoreline of Mizu no Kuni. There was a small wooden ladder nailed to one of the pillars, which could be used to get up.

Not that Yashura needed any. She simply walked up one of the pillars as if it were ground, using the Tree-Climbing technique. Wondering if An already mastered that one. The girl was pretty young, after all.

Inside of the hut, though, there was a mess. Old food packages, a few bottles, that kind of thing. The smells weren't pleasant either - the birds used this place as a collective roosting station, so the railings were painted white. Yashura's nose crinkled, a brief frown crossing her features.

"Looks like someone's been using this as a squatting place. If I were a raider, I'd use this outpost to keep an eye for stray fishing boats."

Turning around, she smiled at An, no note of earlier displeasure she expressed with the mess. Approaching the girl again, she asked:

"How do you think we should set up our observation spot, An?"

Yashura had a few ideas herself. But she was curious as to what her new friend would suggest. If she were to grow into a strong and capable ally, she'd have to be capable on her own, not just follow her own lead. And what better time to start growing one than now? 

[Gurē An]

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As they finished placing the tags, An couldn't help but appreciate the meticulous checkerboard pattern, ensuring a comprehensive coverage that minimized the risk of bypassing. "That should do the trick," An agreed, nodding in satisfaction at the completed field. She noted that it had taken all of Yashura's tags, and she mentally acknowledged the importance of being adequately prepared for any situation. Yashura's evaluation of An's minimalistic approach to tools and reliance on her blade was accurate, and An couldn't help but smile.
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The outpost, though weathered and worn, offered a unique vantage point for observation. An considered Yashura's question about setting up their observation spot and began to assess the surroundings. "We should take advantage of the elevation here," An suggested, gesturing towards the raised platform of the outpost. "We can use the hut for cover and position ourselves strategically to have a clear view of the coastline. It provides a good line of sight without compromising our concealment."
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An admired Yashura's knack for adaptability and strategic thinking and hoped to contribute equally to their collaborative effort. As they moved to the chosen vantage point, An couldn't help but feel a growing sense of confidence in their abilities. As An and Yashura settled into their chosen vantage point within the outpost, they carefully adjusted their positions to optimize their view of the coastline. An appreciated the cover the hut provided, making their presence less conspicuous. The rhythmic sounds of the waves below and the seagulls circling above created a calming contrast to the seriousness of their mission.
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Not long after An suggested they take turns keeping watch. "We need to maintain constant vigilance," An advised, her eyes scanning the horizon.
[break][break]

SPOILER: Click to show

真菌操作| Shinkin Sōsa [lit.Fungal Manipulation]
[break][break]
An can grow, shape, and manipulate all forms of fungi, including but not limited to yeasts and mold, along with poisonous and non-poisonous mushrooms, thanks to the Gurē clan's KKG. An has the ability to grow fungi on just about any surface. Because An’s genetic makeup is more similar to that of fungi than that of humans, she can use techniques based on Fungi anatomy, such as secretions or enzymes from various Fungi. She can easily generate or grow any part of a Fungi's anatomy from her own body by using chakra to further alter her own cells. Finally, because these techniques are made from her own cells or bodily fluids, such as converting her saliva into a specific Fungi secretion, An is immune to their effects.
[break][break]
共生遺伝学| Kyōsei Iden-Gaku [lit.Symbiotic Genetics]
[break][break]
As a member of the Gurē clan, An has gained the potential to combine her body with flora and the ground itself because of the similarities in her genetic makeup to fungi. She is able to link her chakra to the underground network of organic matter, which includes plant roots, water veins, and decomposing materials. For example, An can hide in things like trees, shrubs and roots, soil, and so on. Once fused, not only is her presence completely hidden and only felt by those with chakra recognition, but it also allows her to travel within the subterranean web of organic matter up to 1 km before needing to emerge.
[break][break]
蒼波| Sōha [lit.Blue Wave]
[break][break]
An possesses significantly larger and more formidable chakra reserves compared to her peers. This advantage enables her to execute various jutsu without rapidly depleting her chakra, granting her a distinct advantage in combat situations and the capacity to maintain prolonged, intensive chakra utilization. Consequently, she can employ advanced techniques for extended durations surpassing the capabilities of most individuals within her rank.

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Shouki Yashura

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[Shouki Yashura]

"Indeed. We could use an extra pair of eyes, though."

With that, Yashura took a deep breath, in and out, and made a handseal. Right next to her, in a puff of smoke, appeared a copy of herself. One might mistake it for a regular clone. Except this one had mass. And it cast a shadow. A shadow clone. Making even one was straining for a genin, but Yashura had practice. This helper of hers should last a while. Looking around, she assessed the outpost.

"Standing at full height would make our heads visible against the outline. We should make our observation posts less ... obvious."

With that, Yashura took out her kunai, and made a few holes in the boards of the barrier under the handrails, that were there to prevent people from falling over. She knelt down, and looked through one, to see how good of a view it offered. Then, made a few more holes, looking in different directions. All this time, she remained crouched, concealed behind the rickety wooden barrier. 

"I think our set up is good enough. You can watch the shoreline to our left, I'll take our right. The clone would be somewhere in between."

The waiting game would come soon after. 

[Gurē An]

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As An settled into her position at the outpost, her focus shifted towards scanning the coastline to their left. The rhythmic crashing of the waves provided a calming ambiance, but An remained vigilant, scanning the horizon. Yashura's strategically crafted holes in the barrier offered discrete vantage points, reducing their visibility.
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After a period of quiet observation, An's sharp eyes discerned a subtle movement along the tree line. She narrowed her gaze, concentrating on the suspicious figure. It was a lone individual, navigating the shadows with caution, capturing An's attention. Her instincts kicked in, prompting her to silently signal Yashura and draw her attention to the potential threat.
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Maintaining her position, An carefully tracked every move of the mysterious figure. The individual's behavior heightened An's concern, and she couldn't shake the feeling that their presence might be connected to their mission. Tightening her grip on her weapon, she whispered to Yashura, "We've got movement along the tree line. Single individual, attempting to remain concealed. It could spell trouble."
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Suggesting caution, An continued, "We should stay vigilant and assess the situation before taking any action." Their outpost, strategically fortified with tags and positioned for surveillance, became a tense stage for their next move. The duo maintained their watchful stance, prepared for whatever might unfold along the coastline.
[break][break]

SPOILER: Click to show

真菌操作| Shinkin Sōsa [lit.Fungal Manipulation]
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An can grow, shape, and manipulate all forms of fungi, including but not limited to yeasts and mold, along with poisonous and non-poisonous mushrooms, thanks to the Gurē clan's KKG. An has the ability to grow fungi on just about any surface. Because An’s genetic makeup is more similar to that of fungi than that of humans, she can use techniques based on Fungi anatomy, such as secretions or enzymes from various Fungi. She can easily generate or grow any part of a Fungi's anatomy from her own body by using chakra to further alter her own cells. Finally, because these techniques are made from her own cells or bodily fluids, such as converting her saliva into a specific Fungi secretion, An is immune to their effects.
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共生遺伝学| Kyōsei Iden-Gaku [lit.Symbiotic Genetics]
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As a member of the Gurē clan, An has gained the potential to combine her body with flora and the ground itself because of the similarities in her genetic makeup to fungi. She is able to link her chakra to the underground network of organic matter, which includes plant roots, water veins, and decomposing materials. For example, An can hide in things like trees, shrubs and roots, soil, and so on. Once fused, not only is her presence completely hidden and only felt by those with chakra recognition, but it also allows her to travel within the subterranean web of organic matter up to 1 km before needing to emerge.
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蒼波| Sōha [lit.Blue Wave]
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An possesses significantly larger and more formidable chakra reserves compared to her peers. This advantage enables her to execute various jutsu without rapidly depleting her chakra, granting her a distinct advantage in combat situations and the capacity to maintain prolonged, intensive chakra utilization. Consequently, she can employ advanced techniques for extended durations surpassing the capabilities of most individuals within her rank.

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Shouki Yashura

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[Shouki Yashura]

The waiting game could be considered dull to some.

Yashura enjoyed it, though. The sounds of winds, the waters crashing against the shoreline. 'It would have been so sweet if the waters would swallow the island whole...' - A stray thought came through the girl's mind. Yes, it would have been nice. Provided she survived. Hmm... and maybe her new-found friend An, to keep her company. And interesting thought to muse on, while the senses idly scanned through the surrounding area. The clone did the same, though who knows what was in the mind of the clone.

The calmness before the storm soon ended, though, when An spotted someone on her end. Someone hiding in the bushes beyond the coastline, watching the place, no doubt.

Yashura nodded, turning her head and watching the bushes through one of her observation holes. Indeed, someone was out there. Maybe a fisherman? Unlikely as that was. There was no need to jump to conclusions just yet. The girl did not speak, but made a hand gesture for An to wait and see. Her clone remained watching the other side, so that they would not be blindsided. 

There was a patch of open ground between the bushes and the tower. If the sneaky sneak wanted to get here, they would have to cross it. And show their hand before the girls would show theirs.

[Gurē An]

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An's heart quickened as she observed the suspicious figure in the distance. She maintained her focus, analyzing every movement with precision. The tension in the air was palpable as she exchanged silent signals with Yashura, alerting her to the potential threat.
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As they continued to monitor the individual's actions, An noticed a subtle signal from the figure—a hand gesture that seemed to convey a message. Her mind raced with possibilities as she deciphered the meaning behind the gesture. Was it a warning? A signal for reinforcements? She couldn't be sure, but one thing was certain: they were not alone.
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Her senses heightened, An remained poised and ready, her grip tightening on her weapon as she prepared for whatever might come next. Moments later, her suspicions were confirmed as two more men emerged from the tree line, joining the lone figure in their approach towards the tower.
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An's instincts screamed at her to take action, but she heeded Yashura's silent command to wait and assess the situation further. They had the advantage of observation, and she was determined to make the most of it. With a steely resolve, An maintained her position, her eyes never leaving the approaching trio.
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As the men drew nearer, An prepared herself for whatever confrontation lay ahead. The waiting game was over, and now it was time to face the challenge head-on.
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A little bit more and the trio would step into the trap the two had arranged previously.
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SPOILER: Click to show

真菌操作| Shinkin Sōsa [lit.Fungal Manipulation]
[break][break]
An can grow, shape, and manipulate all forms of fungi, including but not limited to yeasts and mold, along with poisonous and non-poisonous mushrooms, thanks to the Gurē clan's KKG. An has the ability to grow fungi on just about any surface. Because An’s genetic makeup is more similar to that of fungi than that of humans, she can use techniques based on Fungi anatomy, such as secretions or enzymes from various Fungi. She can easily generate or grow any part of a Fungi's anatomy from her own body by using chakra to further alter her own cells. Finally, because these techniques are made from her own cells or bodily fluids, such as converting her saliva into a specific Fungi secretion, An is immune to their effects.
[break][break]
共生遺伝学| Kyōsei Iden-Gaku [lit.Symbiotic Genetics]
[break][break]
As a member of the Gurē clan, An has gained the potential to combine her body with flora and the ground itself because of the similarities in her genetic makeup to fungi. She is able to link her chakra to the underground network of organic matter, which includes plant roots, water veins, and decomposing materials. For example, An can hide in things like trees, shrubs and roots, soil, and so on. Once fused, not only is her presence completely hidden and only felt by those with chakra recognition, but it also allows her to travel within the subterranean web of organic matter up to 1 km before needing to emerge.
[break][break]
蒼波| Sōha [lit.Blue Wave]
[break][break]
An possesses significantly larger and more formidable chakra reserves compared to her peers. This advantage enables her to execute various jutsu without rapidly depleting her chakra, granting her a distinct advantage in combat situations and the capacity to maintain prolonged, intensive chakra utilization. Consequently, she can employ advanced techniques for extended durations surpassing the capabilities of most individuals within her rank.

[attr="class","ooc-area"]WORD: 244
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Shouki Yashura

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[Shouki Yashura]

'One... two... three...

And only two of us... This will be a mess. Pity.'

Yashura scrounged her nose for a bit. Not because of aversion to killing, but rather to the method that she deemed most efficient. These people were outlaws alright. The scars, and the shaky weapons they carrier were an indication of that. They should have known better than to approach an outpost that was considered property and territory of the ninja village that protected the land. Yashura scanned the bushline for any more movement, to make sure these three did not bring friends. There were none.

That in mind, she made the handseal that stood for explosion. And then...

BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!

Three tags detonated under the feet of the invaders. The force of the blast shattered the stones they were hidden under, sending bits and pieces of rock flying as if it were schrapnel. Two of them fell to the ground, screaming. One of them was missing a foot - he stepped right onto a tag. The other one had his thighs and the back of his legs shredded. Crimson covered the gray stones. The third one was fortunate enough to be only scathed, the blast and the stones flying about did not hurt him as badly. Scared by the gruesome picture and shellshocked by the blast, he made a run for it. 

"Don't kill the last one. We might be rewarded for taking him alive."

With that, Yashura jumped over the railings, down on the ground, and ran in pursuit.

[Gurē An]

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An's heart raced with adrenaline as she watched the events unfold before her. The tension in the air was thick, and every fiber of her being was focused on the task at hand. As Yashura initiated the explosive trap, An braced herself for the eruption of chaos that followed.
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The resounding booms echoed through the air, sending shockwaves through her senses. She winced at the sight of the devastation unleashed upon their adversaries. Two of the men fell victim to the explosive tags, their agonized screams filling the air as they writhed in pain. An felt a pang of sympathy, but she knew that they were trespassers who had chosen their fate.
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Her attention snapped to the third figure, who managed to escape the worst of the blast and now fled in terror. Without hesitation, An followed Yashura's lead, leaping over the railings and descending to the ground below. Her muscles burned with exertion as she sprinted after their fleeing target, determination driving her forward.
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As An closed in on the fleeing man, her determination to halt his escape surged. With a quick flick of her wrist, she withdrew a handful of kunai their glinting edges reflecting the sunlight with a menacing gleam. Without hesitation, she launched them towards the man's lower legs with precision aim.
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The kunai sliced through the air with deadly accuracy, finding their mark as they embedded themselves into the man's calves with a sickening thud. The sudden impact sent waves of pain coursing through the man's body, causing him to stumble and cry out in agony as he collapsed to the ground.
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An rushed forward, her heart pounding with the intensity of the moment. She knelt beside the fallen man, her expression grim as she assessed the damage she had inflicted. "Stay down," she commanded firmly, her voice leaving no room for argument. "You're not going anywhere. Yashura-san, what do we do with him?" An waited on Yashura's opinion before proceeding any further.
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SPOILER: Click to show

真菌操作| Shinkin Sōsa [lit.Fungal Manipulation]
[break][break]
An can grow, shape, and manipulate all forms of fungi, including but not limited to yeasts and mold, along with poisonous and non-poisonous mushrooms, thanks to the Gurē clan's KKG. An has the ability to grow fungi on just about any surface. Because An’s genetic makeup is more similar to that of fungi than that of humans, she can use techniques based on Fungi anatomy, such as secretions or enzymes from various Fungi. She can easily generate or grow any part of a Fungi's anatomy from her own body by using chakra to further alter her own cells. Finally, because these techniques are made from her own cells or bodily fluids, such as converting her saliva into a specific Fungi secretion, An is immune to their effects.
[break][break]
共生遺伝学| Kyōsei Iden-Gaku [lit.Symbiotic Genetics]
[break][break]
As a member of the Gurē clan, An has gained the potential to combine her body with flora and the ground itself because of the similarities in her genetic makeup to fungi. She is able to link her chakra to the underground network of organic matter, which includes plant roots, water veins, and decomposing materials. For example, An can hide in things like trees, shrubs and roots, soil, and so on. Once fused, not only is her presence completely hidden and only felt by those with chakra recognition, but it also allows her to travel within the subterranean web of organic matter up to 1 km before needing to emerge.
[break][break]
蒼波| Sōha [lit.Blue Wave]
[break][break]
An possesses significantly larger and more formidable chakra reserves compared to her peers. This advantage enables her to execute various jutsu without rapidly depleting her chakra, granting her a distinct advantage in combat situations and the capacity to maintain prolonged, intensive chakra utilization. Consequently, she can employ advanced techniques for extended durations surpassing the capabilities of most individuals within her rank.

[attr="class","ooc-area"]WORD: 328
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Shouki Yashura

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[Shouki Yashura]

Yashura caught on to An, once she brought down the last remaining foe. Passing by the two crippled enemies, and standing next to her partner, towering over the pinned man, writhing in pain over his ligaments being cut. She smiled, but that smile lacked mirth. It was a cold, if polite, smile. The coldness was directed towards their captive, however, as there seemed to be more warmth in it whenever she looked at An.

"Very good. Though, when capturing someone alive, it is best to leave them unharmed, if possible. Legs have major bloodvessels going through them. If you hit them on accident, the victim will bleed out in a minute. Like those two over there."

Yashura nodded towards the two others, whose screams were already weakening. They had no means of stopping the bleeding, and were spewing copious amounts of red on the stony shore. 

"Besides... he can't walk on his own now, and we're ways away from where we came from. I doubt we'll be able to carry him that far. Best we send him to where his friends are going in all due haste..."

She pulled out the sword from her sheath, making it make a raspy metal sound on purpose. As she walked alongside the man's collapsed body, he struggled and writhed, feeling the cold sting of her razor against his neck. It left a red line, cutting through the skin, but not doing any real damage.

"Unless this young man proves himself compliant and earns our good faith. Then he might live and even receive help."

Yashura kicked the man's weapon away and knelt in front of him. Tapping his chin to make him look up. 

"What say you, do you wish to live?" - she asked. The man sweated, as he looked up, and averted his eyes.

"Who wouldn't? Damn you..."

"Very good. Answer a few questions, if you would. Who are you? What were you doing here? Are there more of you? If so, where are they?" - Yashura asked. The man hesitated, considering his position. Looking doggedly at the girls. Eyeing An in bewildered astonishment. She did look ten, after all. Muttered something about 'bastards recruiting kids these days'. Before looking back at Yashura.

"And if I don't?"

"You will die. There will be pain, before you do. We do not really need to keep you alive. It's a bonus."

The man spat on the ground, when she said that.

"My name is... bah, Yasutobe's my name. Me and the other two were farmers in the village nearby. Before the flood killed crops. Figured we'd get by by robbing... ugh... local fishermen passing by this outpost. Thought it abandoned... Joke's on us... There were only three of us... No one else." - he sounded defeated. Unlikely to lie. Still, Yashura did not trust his words.

"You'll have to wait with us till a cart shows up to take us back home. Until then, you'll remain in our care. If it turns out there's more of you,  you'll be the first to die. You understand that, yes?"

"I-I do... there's no one else..." - the remaining fellow stammered.

"Very good." - Yashura said, seemingly satisfied. Turning to An, she said:

"Please tend to the nice man's injuries. Promises are best kept. Besides... we do not want him to bleed out on us, do we?"