[Shouki Yashura]

It almost felt like stalking.

Finding out where her friend's residence was, without directly asking about it. Normally, Yashura would wait to be invited, but circumstances demanded otherwise. The girl traveled to the new district, full of fresh settlers and relocants from other parts, wanting for a better life for themselves. It was very ... lively in here. The girl almost looked out of place in her expensive and flowery-looking kimono, making some people stand aside just to be extra nice and let her pass. In her hands, the girl carried a tube containing the mission scroll for herself and a girl she got to know - Gure An. 

It wasn't hard to locate the place. Half of it was public space - a restaurant. There were not a whole lot of people right now, the rush hour was not going to start until later. Which was good, for Yashura's purposes. The last thing she wanted was to inconvenience her friend should she be giving a hand to her old folks. Approaching the counter, the ink-eyed girl bowed politely, and smiled like a porcelain doll would. Very good manners, as always.

"Good day. You have a lovely establishment. I am Shouki Yashura." - the girl introduced herself, and waited for the proprietors to do the same, before carrying on with the conversation.


"Very sorry to trouble you. Is Gure An around? I am a teammate of hers. I have brought some news about our next assignment."

Yashura presented the tube, as proof of her intentions.
___________

Gurē An

[Gurē An]

[nospaces]

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The proprietor, a slightly older female than Yashura with kind eyes and an apron tied securely around her waist, returned Yashura's smile with a warm one of her own. She bowed slightly, acknowledging the polite greeting. "Good day to you as well, Shouki-san. Thank you for your kind words about our restaurant."
[break][break]
She glanced at the tube in Yashura's hands and then looked back at her with a mixture of curiosity and concern. "Ah, An-chan is in the back, helping with some preparations. Let me fetch her for you." The young female turned and called out towards the kitchen. A moment later, An, with an apron matching the young females emerged from the back, wiping her hands on a cloth. Her eyes widened with surprise and delight when she saw Yashura.
[break][break]
"Yashura-chan! What a pleasant surprise," An exclaimed, her face lighting up with a genuine smile. She quickly untied her apron and hung it on a nearby hook. "Is everything okay? What brings you here? Weren't we supposed to meet a few days later?" An's expression shifted to one of focused interest. She nodded and gestured towards a quieter corner of the restaurant, away from the prying eyes of the few early customers.
[break][break]
"Let's sit over there. Thank you, Haruko-chan," she added, nodding to Haruko, who returned to her work with a knowing smile.
[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]

Yashura looked at An, her smile becoming more genuine, though polite still.

The girl looked rather cute and rustic wearing an apron like that. Such a helpful child, providing assistance to her grandparents like that. They really were a picture-perfect family. There was a little bit of yearning for that feeling of belonging deep inside Yashura. Her family was anything but perfect. She felt very little for them at all. Except maybe loathing. But to keep her freedoms and preferential treatment, the perfect Shouki mask had to stay on. And, over time, it was very hard to take off.

"You have a lovely family..." - Yashura said, glancing to the side, before opening up the tube.

"I found a mission for us that was just too good to pass by. I hope you do not mind if I preemptively volunteered us to take it." - the girl said. Truthfully, she could have taken it by herself. But ... it would have felt boring to be alone. And she got used to An's company on assignments. 

"It appears as though there are illegal fighting rings somewhere in the Entertainment District. We're supposed to put an end to them. 'Through any means necessary' the order says."

Yashura's grin widened into a very fox-like smile. 

"How do you think we should go about it, An-san? I'm curious to hear your thoughts."

__________

Gurē An

[Gurē An]

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An listened as Yashura explained the mission, her expression shifting from surprise to excitement. She appreciated Yashura's enthusiasm and trust in her, as well as the opportunity to work together on a mission that sounded both challenging and intriguing.
[break][break]
"Illegal fighting rings, huh? Sounds like quite the adventure," An remarked with a twinkle in her eye. She enjoyed the thrill of missions, especially when paired with Yashura, whose company she found both stimulating and reassuring.
[break][break]
"Of course, I don't mind you volunteering us," An continued, her voice warm and confident. "This mission sounds important, and I'm glad you thought of me. I think gathering information first is definitely the way to go. The Entertainment District is a big place, and we'll need to be discreet."
[break][break]
She stood up from the table, glancing down at her apron before looking back at Yashura. "Give me just a moment to change into something more appropriate for this kind of work. We want to blend in and not draw too much attention to ourselves."
[break][break]
An quickly made her way to the back, disappearing for a short while. She returned dressed in simple, practical clothing suitable for the district's hustle and bustle. Her outfit was nondescript enough to avoid suspicion but still allowed her the agility needed for any unforeseen circumstances.
[break][break]
"Alright, I'm ready," An said, adjusting her headband slightly. "Let's head to the Entertainment District and start by observing the usual spots where people might gather for these fights. We can visit some taverns and speak with a few locals—see if we can catch any whispers or hints about where these rings are operating."
[break][break]
She leaned in closer to Yashura, her voice lowering slightly to ensure no one else could hear. "We should also keep an eye out for anyone acting suspiciously or any locations that seem a bit too secretive. Once we have a lead, we can figure out our next steps."
[break][break]
Together, they stepped into the bustling streets of Kirigakure, their mission clear in their minds. As they moved through the crowded district, they began their subtle inquiries, blending in with the locals while keeping their senses alert for any useful information.
[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]

Yashura watched An go in the back, and return again with a much more casual and inconspicuous look about her outfit. The older girl smiled and clapped, as though seeing a child try on new clothes. But she was impressed with her friend's knowledge and foresight. Most things she could certainly agree with. A few small changes were warranted, though. 

"Very good~ Although, we might need to be a bit more inconspicuous for the taverns. I cannot imagine a seedy bar being visited by two cute, underage girls without attracting the attention of everyone in the vicinity. I don't think that's what we want."

With that, Yashura stood up, and asked the nice lady at the counter about where the restroom was. She also whispered something about not being alarmed about something. She then vanished, briefly. But coming out was not a cute, dainty young lady wearing a flowery kimono, but a woman in her thirties, with sunburnt brown skin, hair tucked under a bandana, and a masty swordscar across one of the eyes. Her outfit, likewise, looked like that of a sailor who had seen a fight or dozen.

"This looks the part, innit?" - Yashura said, in an uncharacteristically coarse voice. "Think I can present myself as a crewmember looking for fun and money? They might give me a pointer." - she said, getting used to the 'role' she decided to put upon herself.

"You could cover the streets, lass. Find a hobo or something. There's plenty around, begging for spare change. Show em' kindness and Ryo, and they'll tell ya everything."

Yashura winked, with her scarred eye. Made her face look like she was grimacing. The two would then leave, for the entertainment district, to see how well their plan would work out.

___________

Jutsu used:

Henge no Jutsu [Transformation Technique]

___________
Gurē An

[Gurē An]

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An admired Yashura's transformation, marveling at how convincing her new disguise was. The coarse voice and scar added an authentic touch, making her look like a seasoned sailor rather than the elegant person An knew.
[break][break]
"Yashura-chan, that looks perfect," An said with a grin. "You're definitely going to blend in and gather information without raising suspicion."
[break][break]
As they made their way through the busy streets of Kirigakure, An began to think about her part of the plan. She had to be careful and subtle, especially in such a bustling area. Yashura’s idea of talking to the homeless was a good one; they were often overlooked but knew a lot about the happenings in the city.
[break][break]
Once they reached the district, An split off from Yashura, heading towards a less crowded alley where she had noticed a few homeless people gathering. She took a deep breath, reminded herself to stay calm and approachable, and walked over to them.
[break][break]
"Excuse me," she began softly, kneeling down to their level. She reached into her pocket and pulled out a few Ryo coins. "I'm looking for some information. Can you help me?"
[break][break]
One of the older men looked up at her, curiosity and caution in his eyes. "Depends on what you need, girl."
[break][break]
"I'm trying to find out about some illegal fighting rings around here," An continued, keeping her tone respectful and kind. "Do you know where they might be operating?"
[break][break]
The man glanced at the coins in her hand, then at her face as if weighing his options. Finally, he nodded slightly. "Yeah, I've heard some things. There's a place a few blocks down, an old warehouse near the docks. They say it's one of the bigger rings. Dangerous place, though."
[break][break]
An handed over the coins with a smile. "Thank you so much. I appreciate it."
[break][break]
She stood up and made her way back to the agreed-upon meeting point with Yashura. They were getting closer.
[break][break]
When she spotted Yashura, An quickly filled her in on the information she had gathered. "There's an old warehouse near the docks. It's supposed to be one of the bigger rings. It sounds like it could be our best lead. What about you Yashura-chan, did you get any good lead?"
[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]

The two split up.

While An was busy interrogating hobos, Yashura went to the pub that was closest to the docking area. Tis where most sailors passed the time. It was also the seedier establishment of them all, since people came and left. Plenty of foreigners, news from abroad, and possibly illicit goods and other dealings to contend with. She came inside and even ordered a drink for herself, before occupying a far table. 

Yashura did not ask anyone anything. Instead, she spent a good half a day to listen to what people were talking about. The subjects were always the same - money, travels, storms, drinks, and women. One fellow even tried to find a seat at Yashura's table. She told him to piss off and that was the end of it. But she did pay close attention to talks about money. Learned that there was a way to "earn a fortune" on bets, this Friday. There were no legal fights scheduled on Fridays, so it was not hard enough to put 2+2 together, and get a 5. 

When it was time to meet up with An again, the girl dropped the disguise, showing up as herself. No need for pretence, anymore. She showed up in her flowery, buttefly-like haori, carrying two caramel apples. Smiling when seeing her partner, she offered her one. 

"I did learn a few things, yes. There will be an event this Friday. If what you say is correct, then it is most likely to be the thing we are looking for... Mnn..." - Yashura hummed, while munching on her treat.

"How do you think we should go about it, hm?"

The older girl had her ideas. But she didn't want to lord over An with them. Besides, most of the times, they seemed eye-to-eye on what to do. A very useful quality, Yashura thought. 

___________

Gurē An

[Gurē An]

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An accepted the caramel apple from Yashura with a grateful smile, savoring the sweet treat while she considered their next steps. She appreciated Yashura's thoughtful approach to gathering information and respected her partner's desire to hear her input on their plan of action.
[break][break]
"Thanks, Yashura-chan," An said after a moment, her voice calm and thoughtful. "I think we have a solid lead with the event on Friday. Since it's at the old warehouse near the docks, we need to make sure we're prepared. Here’s what I’m thinking."
[break][break]
She paused to ensure she had Yashura's full attention before continuing. "First, we need to scout the area. We should check out the warehouse from a distance, see if there are any patterns in the guards' movements, and identify potential entry and exit points. If we can figure out how they’re running security, we can avoid detection when we infiltrate."
[break][break]
An took another bite of her caramel apple, enjoying the sweet and sticky texture. "Second, we should gather some disguises. Your sailor outfit was brilliant, and if we both have convincing disguises, it will be easier to blend in. We need to look like we're part of the crowd, not just spectators. Maybe we could pose as new recruits or gamblers looking to place some bets."
[break][break]
She glanced around the busy street, making sure no one was listening to their conversation. "Third, we need to be ready for a fight. If things go south, we might have to defend ourselves and stop the ring by force. We should plan out some signals to communicate silently in case we need to act quickly."
[break][break]
An looked back at Yashura, her expression determined but calm. "What do you think? Any additions or changes to the plan? Though it seems a bit dangerous, I trust your judgment, and I think we can pull this off if we work together."
[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]

Yashura smiled, as she listened to An lay out the plan.

All of her observations and assumptions were accurate, of course. This was a good plan, overall. If not for one detail that had been overlooked. The Shouki nodded towards one of the cafeterias, which had tables under tents outside, as she munched on her apple, greedily finishing it before An was even half-way done with hers. A good place to sit and talk without people passing by catching earfuls of their conversation.

"That's an awful lot of work for a D-rank mission. Infiltrating a fighting ring, stopping the fights, arresting ring-leaders, potentially dealing with guards, who might or might not be shinobi... That's enough to be a B-rank task for a team of Chuunin, not a couple of genin girls. I think something else is expected of us..."

Yashura briefly stopped talking, as there was a waiter approaching, to ask what the two would like. She ordered a small teapot of jasmine tea, for both of them. While that was being delivered, she returned her attention to her companion. 

"I doubt the guards know about this event. Had there been any knowledge, we would have been given coordinates as part of the assignment. I think we should double-check if the event will be there, and that it is not a false lead. And if it isn't... all we need to do is approach the nearest patrol and direct them towards the underground ring. They'd be more equipped to deal with them than we are. After all..."

A sly smile crossed Yashura's features.

"The mission did say 'by any means necessary.' "

She gave An a playful wink. A few moments later, the waiter appeared, with their pot of tea. Delicious aroma of jasmin filled the air. 

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Gurē An

[Gurē An]

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Yashura's suggestion to find a quieter place to talk made sense, and as they settled at one of the cafeteria tables under the tents, An continued to savor her caramel apple. She nodded thoughtfully at Yashura's observation about the mission rank, realizing that she had been so focused on the details that she overlooked the bigger picture.
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When the waiter arrived, An quickly placed her order and waited for Yashura to continue. As Yashura pointed out the potential discrepancy in their mission's scope and suggested verifying the event's location, An felt a wave of relief. It was clear that Yashura's perspective was grounded and rational, balancing out An's more action-oriented approach.
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"You’re absolutely right, Yashura-chan," An said with a nod, her voice reflecting a newfound calm. "I guess I got a bit carried away with the planning. Verifying the information and using the guards is a smarter move, especially considering our rank and experience."
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She took a deep breath, feeling a weight lift off her shoulders as she embraced Yashura's more strategic plan. "We should definitely double-check the event's location and validity first. If it turns out to be accurate, then we can report it to the guards and let them handle the heavy lifting. We don't need to put ourselves in unnecessary danger."
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An smiled back at Yashura, her eyes reflecting both gratitude and determination. "Let's meet again on Friday, near the docks, just to confirm everything and be ready to act if needed. If we find out the event is happening as we suspect, we'll inform the guards and let them take it from there."
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As the waiter returned with their pot of jasmine tea, the delightful aroma filled the air, adding a sense of tranquility to their conversation. An poured herself a cup and took a sip, savoring the soothing taste. "This is a good plan, Yashura-chan. Thanks for keeping it simple, I guess experience matters after all."
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She raised her cup slightly in a gesture of appreciation. "To teamwork and smart strategies. We'll make sure this mission is a success, together."
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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]

Yashura nodded, hearing An agree with her proposed course of action. Glad that she did, for a few reasons. 'This way I will not put my life and reputation on the line for the village more than I have to.' - she thought, with a bit of irritation. They would pay their dues to her back, one day. Her job was to survive till that day arrives. 

"Lets finish our tea. Verifying the place should not be too difficult. These kinds of events beget audience. Seeing non-shinobi flock to a seemingly abandoned warehouse should be evidence enough."

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The next day, Yashura and An would meet up again. The girl was in the already familiar 'sailor lady with a scar' disguise, which only An would be privy to. The plan was simple enough - to simply hang out around the warehouse by the docks, see where people are going. This place was supposed to be out of use, so not too many people strolling about. Picking a good place to observe one of the entrances, Yashura lit up a smoke, and pretended to be doing just that, while leaning against one of the walls. An was tasked to observe the other entrance. Soon enough, people started showing up. Not in large groups, but bit by bit, they were coming.

'One... Five... Ten... Hmm... Must be the audience...' - the girl thought. Suddenly, she noted a person, who looked like someone with a bit of wealth, but not enough brains to come along with it. A middle-aged man with a balding head, who looked as though they were out of place.

"Excuse me, ma'am... I was told there is a ... tournament of somekind? But I cannot seem to find the place..."

Sailor-Yashura rolled her eyes a bit, dropping the burned out smoke on the ground and stomping it into the dirt with her foot. This was a perfect opportunity to test things out. Use this hapless soul as a scout, in a way. She grinned and nodded, towards the warehouse.

"Yeah. That building over there... It's starting soon."

She watched the man go towards the place. After a bit of rough-housing and confusion among whoever was letting people through, he was allowed inside. All the confirmation Yashura needed.

'Yes, this is the place.' - she thought, turning around, to go towards the meeting point. 

'Hope An's doing alright.'

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Gurē An

[Gurē An]

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An watched the other entrance, the flow of people was constant. It seemed their hunch was correct, and this indeed was the location of the illegal fighting ring. As soon as most of the people finished entering, An knew it was time to act. She made her way back to the agreed meeting point.
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Seeing Yashura approach, An gave a small nod of acknowledgment. "Looks like we found the place," she said with a determined expression, her hands moving fluidly to convey the message. "Let's report back to the guards and let them handle the rest. We've done our part."
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The two quickly made their way to the local guard post, their steps brisk and purposeful. Upon arrival, they were greeted by a stern-looking officer who listened as An and Yashura relayed the details of their findings. The officer's expression softened slightly, showing appreciation for their diligence.
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"Thank you for your work," he said, approving. "We'll take it from here. It's important that we keep the streets safe, and your assistance has been invaluable."
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With their mission officially handed over to the authorities, An and Yashura could finally breathe a sigh of relief. An glanced at Yashura, a smile creeping onto her face. "Let's celebrate," she said, her eyes sparkling with the thought of a sweet treat. "How about some dango or taiyaki? We deserve it."
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The two headed towards a nearby street vendor that An had spotted earlier. The smell of freshly grilled treats filled the air, and the vendor greeted them warmly. An ordered a couple of skewers of dango, and a couple of taiyaki, a fish-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste.
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As they sat on a nearby bench, enjoying their well-earned snacks, An felt satisfied. An took a moment to savor the sweet, chewy dango. The mission had been a success. She raised her skewer slightly in a playful gesture. "To teamwork and smart strategies," she said. "And to many more successful missions together."
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- E N D -
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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.

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Shouki Yashura

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