Kaiya smiled happily. That would be perfect! Kaiya had surely gotten her wish, time away from herself. She prefered to stay occupied when she could considering recent events. That mission had taken it's toll on her and the last thing she wanted to be was alpine, especially not alone and in the quiet. She would brave any weather at the moment to avoid that. Being alone naturally meant she had little distractions, which gave her mind to dwell, ever more miserably, on that mission. And that was something to be avoided. ”That sounds perfect!” and it did. A little tea house was just the thing. And it sounded like a great place to sit down and talk and such. Which is truly what Kaiya wanted at the moment. Kaiya, with great effort, pulled herself out of her Riviera, and smiled again. ”Nice to meet you too then Ren!” Kaiya wasn't yet sure if she could trust Ren, her trust issues run deep. But at the same time… she was notably less reserved than was typical. Perhaps being she was afraid Ren wouldn't care0++ to talk or do anything is she started being too reserved. She needed the conversation and company now. Kaiya then stopped for a moment. Sabaku? ”Sabaku…? Ahh so you use Kazekage Gaara’s sand?” the four the kazekage was quite famous after all. It wasn't like no one would know he had descendants. Understandably many were proud of that lineage. Kaiya would wait for any reply as she followed Ren to the place they were going. After she responded, she would seem to hesitate for a moment, as if debating something, before speaking again. ”I suppose if I know your clans abilities I should be fare to make it even right? My ability, and my clan's ability is called “Deep Dreaming Illsion Fumes” we posed the unique ability to use water vapor and mist as triggers for genjutsu. Skin contact or breathing in the mist or fumes can trigger the genjutsu, rather than typical entirely visual or auditory cues… I am trusting you though to not go telling everyone though.” She offered a smile though, detracting from the seriousness of what she had said. Kaiya may have trust issues and usually she may not have entrusted that knowledge to her, but how could you know if someone as trustworthy if you never gave them the chance to demonstrate they could be trusted. ”Yeah… It’s not a well known clan. Unlike your clan we really don't have any legendary ninja to look back on. It’s not that we have no skilled or great clan members… More like they always seem to miss the spotlight themselves. Add to that the fact that we don't really have a home… we just kinda skirt by.” Kaiya said all this whole smiling. More as if it was simply how it was and she didn't mind it that if she regretted it at all. In fact being from a lesser known clan had it’s advantages. The second everyone heard you were and uchiha, for example, the cat was out of the bag. Everyone knew what to expect of you.

Kaiya followed Ren for a few more blocks before she turned to a clay and red sand building. It was small, and other than an elegantly written sign, seemed very unassuming. As Kaiya followed Ren inside, she saw what wasn't exactly surprising, there were only a hand full of customers in the tea shop. Kaiya probably could have guessed what it was even if she hadnt seen the sign and hadn't heard Ren tell her. The unmissable sign of tea was in the air. As she closed the doors behind her she knew why Ren wanted to come here. With no sun and an air conditioner it was immediately much cooler in here. But not only that, it was a comfy looking place. Clay floors and we'll decorated walls. It was perfect. Not cluttered enough to be stuffy, but very comfortable looking. Kaiya imagined if the prices were good she would come here again for sure.

”Wow this place looks amazing. Perhaps not exactly awe inspiring or amazing in the traditional sense, but it looks so comfy, and the smell of tea is nice and refreshing.”

Word Count: 729

An accepted offer to lunch! Ren leading them on there way to the tea house, getting through a bit of the formalities almost right off the bat during their journey. Recognition of her clan name came almost immediately after it was given, and not an uncommon thing in the village given the grandeur of former Kage and the old clan members which helped build their legacy. But still, it wasn't a thing that Ren was used to in her time, not having been as much in the spotlight to have an eccentric recognition of her clan become a readily normal thing. Still, she smiled a bit bashfully at the notion in return, rubbing the back of her neck with a bit of a laugh. Kaiya though, offered an interesting bit of information in return, the notion an idea of her own clan. Ren found it interesting as she listened into the details of the genjutsu and such, something she had no skill in and constantly hated to be around and practice with/against. Losing control of reality was frustrating at best and the class of genjutsu in itself was usually to do such tormenting things. But still, beyond that. Ren was interested at why she was so open to share immediately, either trusting Ren implicitly with the information or maybe doing a bit of advertising to someone from the famed Sabaku clan. It was all a bit of a weird notion to say the least, but Ren listened on and held her casual smile.

She responded in kind, "No, I'd never go around and tell everyone..." she laughed a bit, "Besides, the clan you come from isn't everything. Maybe you'll be the first great from your clan and I'll be the next to fall in the cracks of the Sabaku." she chuckled a bit, just trying to change the temperament of the idea surrounding the clans. It wouldn't be long before they made their way to the shop, Ren waved and led them to a table for two and took a seat facing towards the door. Wow this place looks amazing. Perhaps not exactly awe inspiring or amazing in the traditional sense, but it looks so comfy, and the smell of tea is nice and refreshing.” Ren smiled a bit at the notion.

"I completely agree, my brother took me here once, he said he would always use it for dates and stuff since they always had good tea and food to make up for the lack of elegance and it was easy on his wallet." Ren would laugh as she recalled before a waiter would reach their table asking the two of them for their order. Ren would chime in first, getting a cup of tea and a grilled sandwich with turkey and ham on it and a variety of other garnishings. Then deferring to Kaiya to order whatever she would like, Ren declining to even open the menu, she had been here often enough with her brother after training when she was younger or after late academy classes.

Ren would wait for the waiter to depart, given how few people there were it wouldn't take long for their orders to get filled or anything but that would be negligible here. She would speak up, "So given your interest in your clan and genjutsu and all, I should assume that you're a kunoichi too? How long have you been a ninja?" she would pause, "I mean, if you don't mind me asking and all." she would lead off briefly after asking, doing her best to start a conversation before their tea would arrive back at the table. Part of her was a bit excited to finally get something to drink, but sinking into the wooden chair was enough, escaping the heat would be all she really wanted for the time being.

[651 words]

Kaiya listened as she replied to her comment about her clan. She felt rather foolish for divulging… But...she felt it was only fair… though perhaps not. By hindsight, it was obvious what Ren’s clan was the instant she used sand. Most would assume Kaiya was simply using water based ninjutsu when first seeing hers. Kaiya shook her head slightly and smiled again. It didn't truly matter anyway in the end perhaps. Once someone fell for her trick once they’d start assuming all her suiton jutsu were genjutsu and be on their guard. Kaiya nodded with a smile as sage did say should wouldn't go telling everyone. Besides, Kaiya wasn't a one trick pony. She didn't just rely on her plan’s abilities. Only a fool out all their own eggs in one basket. Kaiya surely hoped she wasn't such a fool. Kaiya dropped her smile for the barest second before smiling again after Ren mentioned her falling in the the cracks of her clan. She’d bring it up later.

Kaiya smiled at the story about her brother taking her here. It did look like the kind of place that wouldn't break your wallet or purse. Which was a good thing for Kaiya. Benin weren't exactly wealthy in general, to say the least. Though that may not always the the case. Some genin had rich parents, for example, and likewise had money to spend. It could be a bit annoying being around these people. That said, Kaiya figured that was just part of being rich, irritating others with your wealth that is. Kaiya looked around briefly again. Elegant, richly decorated and stuffy places were far from comfortable in Kaiya's opinion. Perhaps this was simply because Kaiya wasn't rich, and hasn't been raised in that kind of environment.  Considering that, it wasn't at all surprising that Kaiya disliked stuffy, overly elegant or formal places. This place was pretty, well decorated, and felt homey. What more could you ask?

A waiter came then, a Kaiya gave him too a friendly smile. She might usually be reserved, but that didn't make her unfriendly. Oddly enough, her trust issues reserved nation, and general friendly and agreeable attitude all came from the same thing. Kaiya had grown up with a feather who was addicted to gambling and a mother who was addicted to Locus. Locus being a less well known drug that game from a certain desert cactus. When the juices from it were distilled they had highly euphoric and hallucinogenic properties let alone highly addictive ones. This distilled, concentrated liquid was then dried to a powder and sold. Considering her parents problems… She inevitably was a ground quite unsavory people far more than she would have liked. But… she hated how gruff and… disagreeable… They were. She learned not to trust and to keep her mouth shut… But she also grew to dislike the attitudes of such people.  Kaiya shook her head and ordered much the same as Ren, though she asked, if it was at all possible, if she could have cucumbers raw spinach, and banana peppers on her sandwich. Kaiya didn't much care if it cost a little extra, she was craving those. And cucumber was refreshing on hot days. Kaiya handed back her menu, having hardly used it. Turkey and ham sounded perfect from the moment Ren said it.  Venison would be better, but… Deer meat was more expensive in Sunagakure, which was too far into the desert for it to be readily available.

Kaiya nodded slightly as she began to talk again. ”Well… I haven't really been Kunoichi for very long, truth be told. I am a bit old to be as fresh as I am as a genin. But, well, I had family issues delaying me from joining the academy till later than most. I was busy taking care of myself and my family.” This was true. She had to make sure she and her parents were fed after all… her parents too busy with…. Other stuff to look after her, let alone themselves properly. ”It's fine, don’t worry about it. I don't mind at all. I’d say I am an open person, but I am usually More reserved than this. I suppose I simply didn't want to be alone with my thoughts today, so I jumped at the chance to hopefully make a friend?” Kaiya wasn't lying there. Nothing but the truth. ”Oh, by the way, let’s hope you don’t fall into the cracks, and that I don’t become famous. I never meant to imply I was unhappy with my clan not being well known. Kaiya let out a soft giggle as she said this. ”Besides being famous would be troublesome. And everyone would have high expectations for you, not to mention probably know your abilities due to fame.” Kaiya’s voice became a bit playful when talking about high expectations and the like, her voice making it clear she was joking, hopefully.

Kaiya gave a slightly embarrassed look then. If Ren did show interest in being Kaiya's friend, she would blush a bit more. ”Well… Umm… I guess… I should probably tell you something then…” If Ren didn’t show interest in being friends, Kaiya would simply not mention it.

Word Count: 891
Total Word Count: 729+891=1,620

They both took their orders, Kaiya following a similar suit of choice, but with an interesting twist of some weird extras to pair with the sandwich. Kaiya added on, ”Well… I haven't really been Kunoichi for very long, truth be told. I am a bit old to be as fresh as I am as a genin. But, well, I had family issues delaying me from joining the academy till later than most. I was busy taking care of myself and my family.” Ren listened in carefully, connecting heavily with the point. She would agree heavily, having taken a break herself after graduating and such, though for different reasons.

Their conversation lead off into a different direction though, as she added in with a quip about a chance to make a friend. Ren smiled at the thought and nodded a bit, it was definitely an interesting opportunity after all. Kaiya then continued on about not falling through the cracks and becoming famous, to which Ren would respond with a laugh of her own. Responding in kind, "No, I understand, I took a few years off after I graduated in the academy to help my mom in her shop so I'm still a genin too." she spoke a bit bashfully again. "But yeah! A great chance to make a friend, one who will hopefully become famous..." Ren added with a taunting flair to the piece.

"Besides, if you're famous then I'm sure you've already exceeded their expectations and can do whatever you want! ...And you could have all kinds of cool secret jutsu you could break out one day in a moment of some grandeur battle!" Ren rambled on laughing a bit and smiling with it. The idea itself was funny, either of them very well could end up being some great ninja one day! But that wouldn't be for a while, no reason to trump up hopes and all that jazz.

Their conversation would be interrupted briefly as the waiter brought their tea to the table and an extra water for each of them. Ren smiled with each motion and watched him, declining to comment on the conversation until he had departed. After he nodded and smiled, Ren would give her thanks and leave him to make his departure back to the kitchen. Kaiya would chime in seemingly a bit blush and nervous, Ren would give her head a slight tilt and listen in. ”Well… Umm… I guess… I should probably tell you something then…” she was a bit confused. It was a definitely change of pace from where there conversation had just been, but was there something to trigger the change? Perhaps a glance she made or something that Kaiya might have overheard?

Ren looked back and exhaled lightly while thinking, "Oh umm... that's fine. Is everything alright?" she would ask after having taken a sip of tea, savoring the flavor of it briefly. Then setting the cup down to listen into whatever Kaiya would have to add.

[505 words, 1156 words total]

Kaiya listened when she spoke about helping with the shop, and nodded along in agreement. Though it wasn't something quite like that she was talking about. That said she did not want to broach the topic of her family. She's leave that for another day, hopefully never but she doubted it. It wasn't exactly a secret, and there was probably gossip about her family… but… it didn't matter. What happens will happen right? It's not like that was a fresh wound either. She had already learned to deal with her family issues. It was annoying, but t uv she could understand family delays. There was no shame in doing what needed to be done, none at all. In fact, quite the opposite. Someone who can put what they want to do assure and do what needs done is someone to be admired. Kaiya could hope that the sand would be teeming with such people.

Kaiya laughed when she said she would be famous. Not a scornful or doubting laugh? Just, a laugh really. It wasn't meant to mean she doubted it or that she taught badly on Ren for saying such a thing. ”Fair point, fair point. I suppose you are right there. I can only imagine the kinds of doors that Will be open to someone with great renown. And I suppose if you are famous then hopefully you have met the expectations placed on you. Though I suppose a person could always be famous for failure. That’d suck.” Kaiya was still laughing when a waiter brought them tea and water. Kaiya smiled and thanked him before he walked off and took a drink of tea. It was great, no exaggeration there. ”Well, let's hope that when you’re famous we can still have lunch together sometimes. I’d hate to never be able to speak to you due to a crowd of admirers always getting in the way. You know how they can be.” Kaiya gave a playful wink towards Ren.


As the conversation led to darker or murkier places, and Kaiya suffered some doubt. She knew already what she would do. She had since before she brought it up. You see, there often came a time when she was growing to be friends with someone, when this came up. Sometimes an established friend found out on their own, sometimes the conversation ended badly. Kaiya had found that was best to address it before she got too attached to a person. That way a bad reaction wouldn't be so hard on her. It always sucked when someone reacted badly. The second issue she was to bring up was, if anything, worse. Because people didn't generally know about the first issue, but they found out rather quickly about the second. Kaiya didn't do a great job hiding in and really had no desire to anyway. ”Well…” Kaiya took a fortifying full of hot tea, her blush still clear on her face. ”I generally find it best if I bring certain things up myself when I seem to have found a friend. Sometimes when people discover it themselves without knowing it beforehand, it goes badly. It’s generally better to get it over with early…” Kaiya again took a drink of tea, and forced a smile. ”No point beating around the bush I suppose. Errr… well… I have some issues. The one most people don't find out unless they talk to my family or something, is that I’m intersexed. It's better to simply be honest about it. Otherwise, when surprised by its people can be a bit harsh. The second thing, the one you will likely find out soon… Assuming you don't ditch me, is that I am genderfluid I guess… bigender? Not exactly sure… Anyway… perhaps due to the thing I just enough up, I don't exactly have a stable gender identity? Anyway… I can be feminine one day, use my full name, Kaiya…. And end up dressing very masculine the next, and call myself Kai…” Kaiya smiled awkwardly, and other than a blush, said it fairly matter of factly. No use hiding that right? ” Anyway sorry about that, or if I put to off your appetite. It’s just preferable to be honest about that kinda thing?” Kaiya spoke in a resigned way. As though determined to get it out of the way.

Word Count: 739
Total Word Count: 1,620+739=2,359

"Me famous? No way, you're gonna be the famous one. And I won't be hoping, I'll be kicking down your door when you're famous! Probably just to meet whatever cute assistants you have working for you..." Ren would laugh at her own joke and suppress the laugh briefly after as a thought crossed her mind, "Which I guess means that I'm stuck being an admirer too then.... Oh well, could be worse I suppose..." she added with a shrug and took another sip of her tea. It was always so delicious everytime she drank it, savoring the rich flavor and the thickness of the milk in it.

Their conversation would go into a turn, Kaiya clearly becoming nervous as she had 'something' to share with Ren, but what could that be? Ren watched her fidget around with a curious look in her eyes, trying to piece together what was going on for the time. She took a sip of her tea but still seemed blush, it only incited Ren's curiosity all the more, and while she stammered through the opening of her speech Ren would tilt her head a bit as she listened in. Starting off with annotations about past experience and how if she wasn't honest then things would go 'badly' but what did that mean? Was she about to admit to being a psychopath who killed her whole family or maybe a missing ninja who was on the run? It seemed that some deep dark secret was about to be revealed and that it was the best for both their sake's to have it all out on the table.

Kaiya drank again and gave a smile, one that Ren returned genuinely, trying to reassure her of whatever it was that she felt that she had to do. The first great 'issue' as Kaiya would put it, was that she was intersexed. A sort of notion that had never really been a thing for Ren up to this point, she was of course aware of it and had been apart of her studying during medicine, the possibilities of it all and the people behind them and their anatomy and psychiatry and such. But that was all it had ever been for Ren up to now, was just information from texts and scrolls, and she wasn't entirely sure how to respond just yet, but continued to listen in. Nodding along with Kaiya's words and keeping a smile, agreeing with the parts about being honest, it was certainly a very tough trial for her to endure to admit this and be open about it, something that Ren most certainly couldn't take away from the situation.

Ren would scoff a bit sarcastically at the bit about ditching her, a small smile forming after, a slight interruption to reassure Kaiya that that specific detail would be furthest from the truth. The second part would have to deal with her gender identity, and it seemed that Kaiya placed a great amount of importance in this aspect of her life. Gender fluid would be another interesting and new concept to approach Ren, she had never really given much thought to her own orientation before, curiosity there before but she felt far too young to truly care about it. But she most definitely did care?

Ren continued to listen in patiently and mused lightly over her own thoughts, making mental notes to use Kai on the masculine times and Kaiya for the others? Kaiya finished with an apology for all that, like Ren would be owed one, Ren would breathe out a bit and respond rather quickly, "No, no! You don't have to apologize, it's fine." she would add to reassure her to some degree. "It's awesome that you can be honest about stuff like that, it must take a lot of courage to bring it up. And even to someone who is little more than a stranger to you!" Ren would add on, she was most certainly genuine about it all, not thinking any less of Kaiya because of it.

If anything, she would think more so of her because of the great character it showed in order to bring it up, the kind of honesty that would lead Ren to believe that she could potentially be trusted. Maybe not today or this very second, but one day, the two of them as friends could have each others back and all, but this most certainly wouldn't change anything in Ren's mind. "I'm not going to lie to you Kaiya, I've never really been approached with something like this before, at least no one has ever decided to bring it up or anything like this."

"But to be even more honest, I think it's great! I would certainly never ditch you or anything like that..." she laughed a bit making it into a joke. But that would be a bit of an outlier she felt, not everyone was so accepting so there was probably a huge risk of this becoming a huge ordeal when it may or may not have to be... "As long as you let me know what you're feeling whenever, so I can keep the names straight then all is good! I'm definitely glad you were honest though, not that it would change anything in my mind, but I suppose it won't be a surprise later on down the road?" Ren would add with a bit of a laugh. The scenarios that that statement alone entailed were a bit ridiculous to stand at, but she figured she should change the subject before she ended up rambling herself into a fool.

It really was not a big deal to Ren, but what would be a big deal was her sandwich, which seemed to be making its way to the table as she mused over the last bit of ridiculous scenarios that Kaiya might be imagining between the two. Maybe that was the subject that they should be addressing? ...Nah, Ren would just run with it for now.

[1025 words, 2181 words total]

Kaiya laughed to herself as she spoke. ”Tell you what, if I ever do become famous, tell me your preferences and I’ll try to get a good looking one for you. Might as well right?” Kaiya smiled and gave another giggle. That said, she won’t seeking fame. She was fairly indifferent to fame. In truth Kaiya doubted she had the right background for fame anyway
No one ever hears about famous people’s drug addicted parent or the like. The famous rarely seemed to be tied to such people. As a result… well… Kaiya was neither desirous of fame nor really against it. If she grew famous… well that was all fine, well, and good, but if she didn't, she doubted she would be even a bit bothered by it. It just didn't matter. ”Hopefully not Ren.” Kaiya didn't like the idea of ten getting pushed to the shadows, despite having just met her. No one should be snubbed to make room for others.

Kaiya listened as Ren replied,and slowly out her hand over her face. Dear Lord, what had inspired her to say all that to a stranger… she knew why, and she didn't exactly regret it. Still though, her reserved nature dodnt like such conversations. She didn't truly trust easily… so she disliked these conversations. But… There sometimes was no point to hiding certain things. And Kaiya's father explain how even though she didmt at all like the process, and disliked feeling so open. ”Yeah… Sorry about that heheh. It's no surprise that your not used to such things… and Lord I hate those conversations… but I’d had situations which could have been cleared up easily had only I been upfront and honest about it in the paat. It's better to get such things done than regret it later.” Kaiya clearly felt awkward about the conversation, and not at home revealing such about herself. But… Kaiya let out a small sigh when she mentioned not ditching Kaiya. ”Good to hear.” Kaiya whispered to herself.

”Well that's the whole point. It's confusing and awkward and I
Sometimes… more unpleasant still when someone is surprised by it… that said I don’t exactly enjoy these kinds of conversations. Not at all really… But… it's worth it in the end.” Kaiya sighed softly at the end, but shook her head. ”Will do Ren.” Kaiya smiled then, and not a fake smile. Now that hopefully the more awkward part of lunch was over, she was quickly drifting back to her standard mood. Said standard mood being an odd mix of slightly happy, as if something minor hadpleased her. Kaiya, being fairly phlegmstic, tended not to stay angrt,happy, sad, or the like for long before drifting back into her default state. It took quite a lot to make her truly sad or truly angry… but in return it took quite a lot to make her truly overjoyed.

Kaiya turned to where Ren as looking. Their lunch was marking it's way to their table, and Kaiya's stomach rumbled slightly. Kaiya sighed and shrugged, Still smiling again. ”Sorry about all that. A good thing to know about me is that I tend towards pessimism. That said I also seem to be in a state of mild happiness as my default mood. I’s paradoxical but… I won’t complain. You need to make an effort to be happy right? What use is being pessimistic and just be too ‘woe is me’ all the time? Might as well put effort into being happy.” Kaiya's voice had changed back to a more light, mildly contented tone. Displaying exactly what she had just said for the most part… ”Anyway… in the interest of changing to a more positive subject… what are your favorite foods?”

Kaiya smiled as the waiter places their lunch in front of them. Kaiya eyes It with a playful mood, rather like a cat eyeing the mouse nearby. The mouse who was soon to be lunch. ” I believe you should never ask a question you arn’t prepared to answer yourself… So… in the spirit of ‘trying not to be a hypocrit.’ My favorite foods are venison in terms of meat. Nothing beats deer meat for me. Except perhaps on a sandwich? Other than that… broccoli… And… umm... Well I can't recall everything I like.” Kaiya smiled and picked up her sandwich, and took a bite, and was contented.

Word Count: 760
Total Word Count: 2,359+760=3,119

It was clear that their conversation had entered into a bit of an awkward area, for Ren and especially for Kaiya as with each syllable it seemed to eat a bit away at her worries and her persona. Ren would nod along, agreeing with her about getting it out of the way and such, for whatever reason she felt to share would be hers and Ren wouldn't upset that balance. But really, she felt that she was a bit quick to be trusting, even if Ren could be trusted (at least Ren would like to think so) and despite the friendship thing. She would listen in and return the smile and nodded along, no reason to be rude and a friend is a friend regardless. Ren would decline to further press the issue, she had shared more than enough and there was nothing that Ren could do or say that would help the situation in terms of relieving anymore of her worry or making it less awkward. If anything it would only make it more awkward and it would take time for worry to dissipate, so for now, Ren would await their lunch and smiled along as happy as she could be.

Both of their heads turned to watch their food begin to make its way over to the table, Kaiya rambled on about being a default pessimist. It would seem a bit ironic to Ren, as her first impression would have pegged her towards being a bit extroverted. But perhaps that was the point, and she was right, about staying happy. At least to some degree. Ren would chuckle a bit and nod, "Right!" she would add with a broad smile. Life wasn't worth living if you're always sad and angry about things, happiness might sometimes take effort but it was better to be tired and happy then bored and angry. Or some other proverbial bit of advice Ren wouldn't interrupt to add, besides, for the time being this would do.

Kaiya then went to change the subject back to some more small talk as their food was being placed in front of them. Ren could hardly contain herself, she asked about her favorite foods but would it be wrong to say anything placed in front of her that looked delicious? Of course it wouldn't be, she smiled to the waiter and thanked him as he turned off, her hands reaching towards the delicious food. The toasted bread looked the perfect shade of brown with marks from the grill and a light bit of butter into it. She was about to be in heaven, hardly able to pay attention to anything but listening into Kaiya as she took a bit of her sandwich.

Of course she was listening! Ren wasn't an animal or anything, on the exterior it would look as if she just picked it up and took a bit while Kaiya spoke, but in her mind. Her tastebuds. They were certainly firing on all cylinders as Kaiya finished her bit. Ren would quickly take a drink of her water to wash the sandwich down to respond to Kaiya, a quick gulp and setting the glass down. A larger gulp than she would have liked as she breathed out in relief afterwards, "Food." she would bop her head back and forth a bit.

"I don't really have... favorites? It'd probably be easier to name the things I hate. But if it looks delicious I'll eat it! And texture plays a big part, I don't care for like slimy things or anything like that." Ren would ramble on thinking about different bits of food and how she wanted more of it, the sandwich at her fingers almost calling her name. She would take a bite of it as she was unable to resist, quickly chewing and trying to scarf down the bite. Stopping herself to swallow before she began talking again, "Food is boring though! You can't expect to go back to small talk so quickly!" Ren said laughing with a bit of a smile. "You're a Sunagakure Shinobi, right? That makes us comrades! At least kinda, that's what my dad and brothers always say." she would set her sandwich down and take her tea in her hand. "So you've gotta have hopes and dreams or goals or something? I'll tell you mine if you tell me yours..." Ren said dragging the last few words out in a sort of taunt.

Ren would lean back a bit and cross her arms, "Well actually, we both know you're aiming to be famous so I'll go first!" she would declare just slightly above a conversational volume. A short pause as Ren's face dropped, a quick realization that she didn't really have any long term goals as a shinobi. She was really just doing this as a job, a way to satisfy her competitive nature and all. Ren scratched her head a bit, "Well, on second thought I don't really have any goals or anything... I kinda just do it because it's a family thing and a good way to stay busy and make money and all..." she chuckled a bit as she spoke. It might seem like she was avoiding saying it, and some people would call her out on it, but it was the truth.

[906 words, 3087 words total]

Kaiya smiled again and chuckled as she ate and talked about food. ”Yeah… I’m not too picky… I may have favorites but I will eat many things happily.” Kaiya would leave off that she had a fondness for cooked scorpions as a snack. Sure it wasn't particularly rare… They lived in a desert after all… But many found eating a bug, or more accurately in this case, arachnid, to be disgusting. Kaiya but into her sandwich, and smiled happily, chewing slowly, rather than gobbling it down hastily. It was perfect! Kaiya would definitely come here again. Perhaps she'd see if she could get sandwiches to go at some point? Maybes stick one in a bit of tupperware and take it with her for a snack on certain missions and training? It would be perfect! Yeah that is what she would do!

”True. Hehe. I was just trying to get to know you in a smaller way? But yeah we are comrades.” Kaiya nodded energetically.that's how it was supposed to be after all. All village ninja were to be comrades right? It was less something her family taught her,anymore something that was taught at the academy… How could ninja protect the village and perform well on missions if they didn't consider themselves to be comrades? They couldn’t! Kaiya did chuckle a bit about the being famous thing. Kaiya chuckled again when she said she really had no goals
Kaiya was similar, kind, if only slightly.

” I don't really want to be famous… if it happens it happens I suppose… But I don't really want personal glory… I guess I just want to prove myself. Physically,as a ninjan siren but also to prove my honor, as far as a ninja can have honor I mean… I suppose as ninja we May have to sacrifice honor for the good of the village of it comes to it but..” Kaiya shuddered for a moment, it was a nasty prospect indeed. One she hoped she would never have to endure. ”Other than that I guess… my main goal is to do what I canto fight the drug industry...as much as I hate to call it that. I Will do all I can to stop it from ruining other families. A look of conviction came over her for a moment. The look one might have if they had determined and resigned themself to do something unpleasant, because it had to be done. Kaiya relaxed then resuming her prior look of mild happiness. ”But other than that,i really do not have any goals… It's a job… And one that furthers my goals… ansto protect the village of course.” Kaiya said this last part offhandedly, as if that had been obvious and hardly needed saying. That said, Kaiya was hardly blindly loyal or obedient. If the village and the kage grew evil or truly amoral, she might end up leaving. She desired to protect and give her life for Sunagakure but only as long as it was worth giving her life for. If it were to become a fun of corruption and crime… She would do her best… but… she couldn't honestly say there was no chance that she wouldn’t leave.

”So,if you are just doing this to have a job and kill time, so you think you will shoot for a promotion? Being a chuunin would be nice but I’d like to become a jounin someday. I contain to be the kazekage, too much responsibility there… I’d perhaps grow too anxious if I had so much responsibility. But if this is mostly just a job for your I am wondering if you might simply find another along the way? Kaiya spoke politely, trying hard not to imply that she didn't want to protect the village or other things. She was curious, but didn't want her to think she thought badly of her for what she said. Kaiya would be hypocritical if she were to imply that one should be blindly obedient. ”No offense meant, just curious.” And that was true.

Word Count: 700
Total Word Count: 3,119+700=3,819

Their lunch continued on, Ren giving her bit about being comrades and Kaiya's return in agreement. Ren continued eating through the sandwich lightly and taking an occasional sip of water as Kaiya spoke on about her own goals and dreams in return. A chuckle came from Ren as she revisited the famous idea, quickly becoming an inside joke between the two of them, at least Ren planned to keep bringing it up when necessary. But her next was more interesting, to prove herself as if there were a chip over her shoulder or something. Ren's face would fade back to neutral as she listened in, the idea of proving herself to whomever was a thing that haunted Ren all the same. With her father and brothers all being fairly high ranking ninja in the village, it would be interesting for Ren to fight her way to the top, but thankfully they never would pressure Ren in that way. Only to do her best, never to do better in any way.

Kaiya continued on as she mused and her head fell down to her plate for a second, continuing on about fighting the drug industry. A noble cause indeed, her wording suggesting that it had an adverse affect on her own family, a slight curiosity hit but not one enough to ask any questions or begin poking any holes. In due time, if that became a subject of conversation or need, then Ren would listen to it, but there was no need to drag out pain or worry, especially now. Quickly changing the course of topic to agree with Ren, this was just a job, even for those who loved the work or for those who got a sick desire and promiscuous love of the war they would endure as ninja. Kaiya then went on to ask of Ren, ”So,if you are just doing this to have a job and kill time, so you think you will shoot for a promotion? Being a chuunin would be nice but I’d like to become a jounin someday. I contain to be the kazekage, too much responsibility there… I’d perhaps grow too anxious if I had so much responsibility. But if this is mostly just a job for your I am wondering if you might simply find another along the way?" adding in a bit about offending to which Ren shook her head wildly, wiping away at her mouth with a napkin and clearing it of crumbs as she swallowed.

"No, no, it's fine! I didn't mean it like that it's just a job or that I wouldn't take it seriously. It's just something that..." she paused and shook her head briefly as she thought over it, "It's just that if you had told me like... a few years ago that I'd also be a ninja and all, I'd probably have a laugh at the thought. But I suppose I could always find another job I guess? Depends what you mean and all... Aside from using the sand and all, I'm also fairly good with medical ninjutsu, so maybe I'll delve more fully into that and become a true doctor one day." Ren said with a bit of a chuckle and ended off with a smile. She looked down at her plate, her sandwich almost being gone already, there was never enough of it, but it was those last few bites that would be truly filling.

Ren would divert her attention back up, "Maybe be the doctor of someone famous one day or something..." she shrugged her shoulders with a smile on her face, her tone again joking around with her. After her joke she returned to a mellow focus, "But for the time being I think I'll stick to being a ninja, maybe get some practice and training in before the Chuunin exams and all that." her eyes would shoot up and her entire posture along with it. "Oh!" she exclaimed to Kaiya, "What about you? Are you gonna do the Chuunin exams too?! If they get held soon enough, I mean... if you do then you could definitely help me train and practice against genjutsu stuff!" she would trail off, waiting for a response to her offer. Typical for Ren, already getting in over her head before she had even gotten a response to whether Kaiya was even interested in the exams. Regardless, the thought of training and getting a bit of a spar in, the competition of it more so, would always get her riled up.

[771 words, 3858 words total]

Kaiya nodded as Ren spoke. It made sense. Kaiya wasn't terribly surprised that she had not predicted that her life would lead her here. Besides that, she couldn't imagine the academy passing a student who didn't take it seriously. Bring a ninja wasn't a job one could treat like any other mundane job. You fell asleep during work or didn't put all your effort into irk you could end up dead and that itself was frightening. No one wanted to end up dead for such reasons. ”There is nothing particularly surprising or wrong with that. I can't say I always wanted to be a ninja. I didn't really pretend to be a ninja and the like that some kids did. I didn't really have the time or the desire. But I suppose that's not really surprising is it? I mainly ended up a ninja because my goals and my life simply lead me down this path. I can’t say I spent all my time as a kid imagining myself as a hyper famous or powerful ninja. This just sort of was the naturally where my life was leading. So I really can’t blame you for not expecting to end up where you are. And besides, if you do end up a doctor that’ll be great. We could always use more doctors right? It's not like ninja always win or never get injured. Medical skills sound awesome I think. I think one day I might like to learn some medical skills. Well… I say medical skills but I mean medical ninjutsu. I mean,mahesh everyone knows basic first aid right? I can clean and bandage a wound as easily as everyone. Who becomes a ninja and never bothers learns first aid? That’s pure idiocy right? I mean, it’s not like there will always be a medic right at hand. How to clean a wound, make an emergency splint for a broken bone, etc. Is just stuff anyone with a grain of intelligence makes sure they learn.” Kaiya spoke calmly, trying to make sure to support the idea of being a doctor. It was truly an admirable goal after all. Kaiya was hoping to one day learn medical skills herself after all.

”Sorry if I rambled on a bit. I just wanted to support that goal. I have needed medical help before and found it unavailable. So I wholeheartedly support that field. Well… I say ‘have needed medical help…’ but it was my mother who needed it, I was just the one trying to find a doctor. As for why I admire medics but didn't train to be one… Well… I suppose the option just wasn't truly open at the time, and to be honest, I was busy learning other things.”
That was true,her grandparents had been teaching her about her Kekkei Genkai after all. Not to mention her taijutsu. It was quite something to be taught Mauy Boran by an elderly woman. Her interest intsinutsu was mostly due to a simple thing. Habits I users usually caught from a distance. Few people expected a person to blend genjutsu into fast paced taijutsu. As for Muay Boran, it was a cousin of Muay Thai. The latter was the version used in professional fights, whereas the former was not typically used for professional fighting. Muay Thai was known as the art of 8 limbs, and used not only the hands and feet as strike points, but also the knees and elbows. Muay Boran however might be called the art of 9 limbs, because headbuts and the light were not discouraged.

Kaiya smiled at the mention of the chuunin exams. Of course if they came she would participate? Why wouldn't she? ”Yeah, if they are held I definitely want in! Maybe we'd get lucky and end up in the same team. After all aren’t the exams often team oriented? I suppose if you can't work as a team you shouldn’t be a chuunin.” Kaiya spoke lightly, and thoughtfully. She was hoping for an opportunity like that herself. ”I would always be happy to help you train. ^~^ I haven't had a chance to train with anyone else. So far it’s all been solo. What's the fun in that?” Kaiya smiled broadly, before going back to her lunch as she waited for Rento speak.

Word Count: 731
Total Word Count: 3,819+731=4,550

Ren took the last few bites of her sandwich as Kaiya spoke on, she chuckled at the bits about dressing a wound and such. Ren would laugh on, it probably was medical ninjutsu that was the only difference between her and a real doctor. Well, that and full time doctors are paid much better than Ren was or would ever be. Ren would nod along and take a sip of her drink to finish that off as well, giving some confirmation as she listened.

A thought crossed her mind again, about how apologetic Kaiya could be, as she again apologized for rambling. Albeit more of a courtesy than anything, she still found it a bit funny. She also wondered briefly on why Kaiya hadn't learned Medical Ninjutsu, if the interest was there it would be easy enough to learn, especially for someone who could also learn genjutsu from her clan. They had to have some medics in their genealogy, right? Well, besides the point, perhaps other opportunities presented themselves and that was all there was to it. It wouldn't be Ren's place to question or pry at the subject, instead she would nod along and lean back in her chair a bit, starting to feel the post lunch nap calling her name, "Yeah, it's a little difficult to learn, but once you have the hang of it, it's nothing. If you ever want to learn, just let me know and I can give you some lessons..." Ren would offer cheerily.

The conversation shifted to the topic of the Chuunin exams and such, a smile broke on Kaiya's face as she thought over it and almost immediately agreed. "I think parts of it are team oriented at least, to be honest I don't know how they work. I just love the tournament parts! That's where all the excitement is!" Ren would add with a bit of her excitement and passion getting the better of her. It wasn't that she loved fighting or anything like that, but for ninja, a spar and beyond that a tournament, were the ultimate competition and the best way to display their skills as shinobi. Ren would snap from her short musings back to Kaiya's other point about training, "Also, you're right! Training alone is boring, and nothing helps test your skills and hone them than a solid bit of competition.." Ren would lead on with a seductive smile. Almost hoping that Kaiya would take the bait and fall victim to Ren's far overly competitive nature.

"But seriously..." her face would return to normal as she reversed the direction she was going in, "If you ever need help training or anything like that, I'll always be around to help, granted I'm not busy at the hospital or anything." she added in and took a piece of ice from her cup of water to chew and melt in her mouth.

With a sigh, Ren would reach in her back pocket and pull out a small wallet, the clan symbol imprinted in red on the light brown leather. "But Kaiya, this has been fun, but I think I'm gonna head out now and get back home and what not. If you ever want to find me, I'm going to be working in the hospital and if I'm not there, you can probably find me at the Sabaku clinic, just let them know you're there for me!" she would add with a broad smile. In all honesty, she wouldn't be hard to find if Kaiya ever needed any help with anything, or just wanted to hang out. Ren would grab a few notes of ryo and place them on the table, far more than would cover her lunch.

"Oh, also your lunch is on me! You can get the next one!" Ren would add with a chuckle as she began to walk away from the table, a small wave and heading off before Kaiya could truly object to the notion or anything. It wasn't that Ren would want to leave abruptly or anything, and she would hear her out, but she felt a solid friendship form between them, and there would most certainly be more lunches that Kaiya could pay her back for. Besides, that afternoon nap was calling her name pretty heavily now.

[734 words, 4592 words total]
[Exit Thread]

Training:

Kaiya smiled and listened as Ren spoke. It was true. She kinda wished she had picked it up. But unfortunately she just didn't have the time considering her other studies and her physical fitness training. More than many other specialists, those who trained to fight with Taijutsu needed to hone their bodies. It was pointless without being strong and agile, fast and perceptive, and being able to take a hit was incredibly important. In short Taijutsu required one to train their body extensively. Genjutsu required chakra control. To mess the the chakra in the brain required accurate and precise akra control. Sure that meant she would have a natural step up when it came to learning medical Jutsu. But… she had enough training as it was for now. But someday, when she was able to do More, she planned to learn medical Jutsu. She probably wouldn’t work over much in a hospital. Her skills were more suited to the battlefield perhaps. But regardless… she couldn’t learn it yet. ”I agree. The main reason I haven’t trained for medical Jutsu is simply for the want of time. Taijutsu requires me to train my body. A punch or kick with no strength backing it up is pointless. And all the strength in the world is useless without being fast and agile. Then when you consider my genjutsu training, which requires me to train pinpoint chakra control… it's practically training 2 polar opposites at the same time. But soon… Well, hopefully soon, when I progress further and don't need to devote as much time and energy into Taijutsu and genjutsu, I hope to learn medical Jutsu. I hope your offer is still open then.” Kaiya smiled happily as she spoke.Ren had reveiled herself to be a tsijutsu user simply because Ren had said she was a medical user. Or heavily implied it at least. If they ever wanted to work together on a mission or something, Or be friends really,being honest about that was important. Besides,  they were comrades.

The chuunin exams were awesome. And Kaiya did want to attend, so she listed attentively to Ren, though she would have anyway, even without the topic being interesting to say the least. ”You have a point to be sure. I hope if they come I will make it that far. It's suck to fail early and have to watch. That said… Why wouldn't you stay and watch?” Kaiya could only imagine that she would pick up a few tricks just by watching. But she wanted to compete, to win.

”I’ll take that offer any time. Some friendly competition never just an as long as a wounded pride doesn't result in anger. I'd rather not lose a friend over a sparring bout.” Kaiya was careful as she said this as to not imply she expect such a thing to come of them training together. She doubted Ren was that type. Surely not. Ren seemed quite reasonable. Kaiya smiled at Ren and went back to eating she had been taking far more than eating. However Ren had already finished it seemed because she had gotten up. Kaiya composed her face and voice into playful mock-outrage. ”Get back here!” Kaiya sighed and figured she’d get the next meal, and started finishing her lunch and tea.

[EXIT]

Word Count: 562
Total Word Count: 4,550+562=5,112

Training Stats -
E ~> E-1, 75 words and 0 Ryo.
E-1 ~> E-2, 150 words and 0 Ryo
E-2 ~> E-3, 225 words and 0 Ryo.
E-3 ~> D, 300 words and 0 Ryo.

D ~> D-1, 325 words and 25 Ryo.
D-1 ~> D-2, 400 words and 50 Ryo.
D-2 ~> D-3, 450 words and 75 Ryo.
D-3 ~> C, 525 words and 100 Ryo.

Current stats:

Strength: D
Speed: D
Perception: E
Endurance: D
Reaction Time: D

Raising Perception to D: 5,112−750=4,362
Raising Reaction Time to D-3: 4,362-1,175=3,187
Raising Speed to D-3: 3,187-1,175=2,012 150
Raising Strength to D3: 2,012-1,175=837

Total ryo cost: 150x3=450

Training 1 D ranked Jutsu: (unapproved, but I am reserving this WC for training It once approved.)

237 WC is discarded.

New Stats: (after approval and deduction of ryo)

Strength: D3
Speed: D3
Perception: D
Endurance: D
Reaction Time: D3