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Post by Kuma on Feb 2, 2021 2:40:17 GMT
4th of May - 2018 - JHWAB Kanto HQ - Loading Bay
The tall concrete columns of what was built under the guise of rainwater storage and flood prevention facility, later transported through advanced Barrier Magic, shifting its location with the current one, stand tall in the silent loading bay of the JHWAB Kanto HQ. Norio Bushitora, Senior Inspector of the Intelligence Branch walks away from one of the teleportation charms set for Shirokumo, after sending Callis Nomene, one of the rising stars of the military branch towards a mission much more important than he knows. “I wish he would loosen up a bit, I get he is a drifter and he doesn’t get half of our customs, but he should relax for once”. Norio thought about Callis since he was tasked with being his handler and sometimes he couldn’t take how unyieldingly serious and stoic the Beast Knight could be.
-Old man!- A younger voice, very similar to his, called him out. Norio turned around to see Shin Bushitora, his son, walking towards him, covered head to toe in a sticky blue fluid. -What the hell happened to you?- Norio asked, shocked at the view of his son. -Just came back from Hokkaido, we had to deal with a Yuki-Onna that decided that the current status quo wasn’t cutting for her and that fresh bodies we provide aren’t as delectable as live targets.- Shin smiled displaying his blade to his father. -She was shouting something about “The thrill of the hunt” when I decapitated her, Heian style.- The Military Branch officer’s grin was a bit unnerving to his father, as Norio couldn’t fathom where did this bloodthirsty edge his son had come from. 7 years ago, before Shin had joined the JHWAB, Norio basically didn’t know anything about his son apart from him obtaining a scholarship to study history. 6 months after that Shin joined the JHWAB as an intern.
-Please take a shower before going to report your work. Subaru won’t like seeing you covered in the blood of a possible relative.- Norio wisely advised as he knew that the Intelligence Branch leader, as almost anybody knew, was a descendant of a Yuki-Onna. -Yeah, I know, last time he froze my underwear solid.- Father and Son walked towards the entrance to the barracks, one of the many buildings constructed inside this massive open space underground. -So pops, are you handling the whole “Diplomatic meeting thing”?- Shin asked as they passed through several layers of defensive barriers that scanned them. Since the attack of Ikari Fukushi years ago, the defensive measures of the HQ had been beefed up. -Yes, and you’re coming too, you’ll be part of the security detail for the DMO.- Shin rolled his eyes and let out a sigh. -So I don’t even get to rest? Why don’t you get your furry wonder boy?-
Norio let out a sigh of frustration. -I can’t send him, he is still under the “Tobio Protocol'', so he is handling an issue in Shirokumo instead of being involved with international diplomacy.- Shin nods knowing what that meant, a rule that kept Drifters from handling high-level diplomatic work for at least 5 years. -Oh, yeah, I kinda forget he is a drifter sometimes.- Norio rudely snorted. -You forgot that the cat-looking magical knight from another dimension is a drifter… Sometimes I think you’ve gotten hit too many times in the head kiddo.- The younger Bushitora glares silently at his father while they keep advancing. Without saying another word Shin turns to the right and enters the locker room. Norio stops for a second, attempting to say something, but finally decides against it, shaking his head and keeping on walking towards his destination. As his son mentioned a “diplomatic meeting thing” was about to go down, one he couldn’t inform Callis about because of the aforementioned “Tobio Protocol'' a rule created 10 years ago by the JHWAB after a Drifter who joined their ranks ended up being a sleeper agent. So currently most if not all not vetted Drifters are kept in supervision for 5 years and stopped from participating in high diplomatic missions, except if they are working apart from the JHWAB or if they have direct supervision from their monitoring officer. As Norio was going to be busy with something apart from the DMO group, he had to send Callis to handle the check-up of Shirokumo.
Immersed in his own thoughts, Norio kept walking towards his destination and didn’t realize somebody was calling him out until a large hand, wrapped in designer’s leather gloves, grabbed his shoulder. -What do you think you are d- The Senior Inspector was about to go off on whoever did that, but once he turned around, the hulking and impeccably dressed frame of Iosif Sveda, Senior Accountant of the Economic Branch, a man always dressed to the nines and known for his uncanny power, capable of creating inescapable contracts and forms. Not known to many, he was, in reality, the Shindou of Bureaucracy, but discussing Gainen related topics was a Taboo in the bureau. -Mr. Bushitora!- Iosif smiled while his heavy gloved hand fell multiple times on Norio’s shoulder, each time pushing the Senior Inspector a couple of centimeters down. The older Bushitora removed Iosif’s hand and looked at the Savant Bureaucrat with tired eyes. -Iosif? What do you need now?- Norio had seen Iosif this week more than he had ever seen him in 20 years working for the JHWAB.
-I need you to sign something.- Iosif explained with a radiant customer service smile, extending a notepad with a series of forms. Norio sighed as he felt the weight of bureaucratic procedure slowly crunch his soul into a broken accordion. -Another one? Really? Do you want me to use my blood this time?- Norio dramatically extended his finger, expecting to get pricked by a needle. -No, please, just a pen, I need this approved by a Senior Intelligence Inspector, for the Job Fair and Expo for Inazuma Gakuen.- The older Bushitora looked at Iosif with shock. -Wait… That is today?- Iosif nodded. -For real?- Iosif nodded once again. -Did you forget? I asked you to be the guide three months ago, you said it was okay.- The Senior Inspector groaned. -I did say that, didn’t I? Can’t we delay it?- Iosif shook his head. -We can’t many of the students coming have a lot of contacts, even my goddaughter is coming, she is a fourth-year student, one of the group leaders.-
Norio’s eyes narrowed into slits as he tried to remember something, his hand stroking his beard. -Oh! The daughter of the ambassador? How was her name? Ra.. ra…- Iosif gently interrupted his friend. -Raisa, Raisa Ubiysty. She is coming alongside other 3rd years and some talented third and second-year students to check out possible job offers in the Military, Intelligence, and Cultural branches.- Norio once again rolled his eyes, frustration radiating out of him like light from a gas lamp. -Students actually want to work here? The hours are shit, the work is hard and we barely get any vacations… Wouldn’t they want to get a tour of the Bounty Hunter Association in Kyoto or in Hokkaido, I have people there.- Iosif, standing almost two heads over Norio, looked down at the Senior Inspector with a tinge of anger. The light overhead casting a shadow over his face, only allowing his eyes to be seen, shining with the menace of a famished bear in the middle of a snowstorm looking for prey.
-Okay, no need to get like that Iosif, I know I owe one for handling the paperwork.- Iosif smiled, handing the notepad to Norio and placing his large leather-covered hand over the Senior Inspector’s shoulder. -Thank you so much Inspector Bushitora.- And with that, he turned around and went back towards his office, while adding, without turning back. - And you owe 44 plus 32 of your son and feel lucky I don’t count Nomene’s.- Norio stood there, despondent, only managing to utter. -Why don't you count them?- Iosif turned around with a radiant smile and added. -You’re a rat bastard and I actually like him.- And with that said he entered his office leaving Norio alone. The Senior Inspector, defeated, sighed and started checking the paperwork. The Inazuma Students were about to arrive. Norio signed the papers, taking responsibility for the kids, and turned around walking back to the teleportation bay, where, in a matter of minutes, the Inazuma contingent would arrive. As he did, he picked up his communicator and called Roshi, telling him he would be late, he had other previous assignments to complete.
Roshi Yasumori, the leader of the JHWAB and one of the most powerful Omnyo practitioners in Japan, was flanked by Eien no Ha, the Military Branch leader on his right, and Subaru Yukishiro, director of the Intelligence Branch on his left. Behind them a small group of notable members of the Taisho Families, some of the founding fathers of the JHWAB, and their descendants. Closing the contingent was Moe Akagitsune, the Economic Branch head. She was being protected by Gara, a rising star of the military branch. Roshi solemnly led the procession towards the “Official Gate” used only for important guests, rather than the pragmatic teleportation charms in the main hangar. Much less solemnly Moe Akagitsune, one of the very few full-blooded yokai in a position of power inside the JHWAB, was yawning and sneakily scratching the side of her chin, hiding both actions behind her ornate scarlet fan. Gara, standing behind her, rolled his eyes at her behavior.
-Could you please stop that Akagitsune-sama?- He asked in a hushed voice, attempting and failing to be both respectful and authoritative. The Kitsune looked down at Gara, who as tall as he was, was dwarfed by the sheer stature of Moe. -Oh, the faded star is telling me something, but its shine can’t reach me.- The mere mention of that nickname hurt Gara, deeply, but he managed to keep his cool, he always did, he always made an effort to accomplish that. -Please Akagitsune-sama, could be so kind to behave?- The Kitsune perfect porcelain mask of a face turned into a sly smile. -Oh, did I struck a nerve, are you sad that nobody is talking about how you’re the youngest Military Branch officer anymore? Sad you aren’t the hotshot anymore?- Gara was really hurt as if a dagger was being twisted in his heart. But apart from a momentary twitch of his lower eyelid, he didn’t give any signs of discomfort.
-I beg of you Akagitsune-sama, Yasumori-sama asked me to remind you of the need to maintain poise, so we don’t embarrass ourselves with the foreign dignitaries.- Moe looked at him with a mixture of amusement and condescendence. -How old are you fading star? 40 years old?- Gara attempted to correct her, but Moe continued, trampling over his weak attempt to reply. -I’m over 500 years old, one would think that with age comes wisdom and patience, but that’s a lie people who live, like you, less than what it takes me to chose my clothes in the morning, say to make themselves feel better.- The Kitsune’s frame almost seemed to get larger as she talked, her presence eclipsing Gara’s even more than before. -I…- Gara attempted to talk, but the bloodlust oozing out of Moe was like toxic fumes, he inhaled a whiff and his throat felt like it was burning. -I don’t need a snot-nosed pissant brat to tell me what to do or how to do it, much less a pathetic excuse for a man who gets crossed when he isn’t the center of attention.-
Gara stopped walking, as most of the other members of the contingent did, all focused on the confrontation and fell to one knee. Moe neck gradually tilted to the side, her crimson eyes still locked on the young Military Branch Officer, shining like hot embers, and her fanged smile hidden behind her ornate fan. Gara fell to his knees, his hands grasping for his neck as if he was attempting to catch the air itself that was escaping his lungs. -How does this feel, fading star? Can you feel your years slip away, like sand in your hands?- Moe took a step forward, and gently used her now closed fan to tap Gara in the forehead. The proud military branch officer fell to the ground without any resistance, a wet spot appearing on his pants. Roshi, who had to walk from the top of the contingent and reach the back, arrived just in time to see Gara on the floor convulsing while a puddle of urine formed under him. The Old Leader glared at Moe, who smugly smiled, looking down to the old man.
-Akagitsune-san back to your office.- Roshi whispered. Moe’s vulpine smile widened. Roshi noticed that and raised his voice. -You know what?- He said, getting Moe’s attention. -Not your office.- The Ancient Kitsune lifted one of her eyebrows, showing her curiosity. -What do you mean?- She asked, but before she heard a reply, she felt a charm hit her chest. She didn’t even notice Roshi using Omnyojutsu. In a split second a pillar of smoke replaced Moe and when it cleared up, a large Komainu statue replaced her. Or to be precise she turned into one. Roshi cleared his throat and 4 individuals fell from above. They were completely dressed in black, with tight hoods covering most of their faces. Untrained eyes would think they’re shinobi, but in actuality, they were “Kuroko'' servants clad in black meant to be in the shadows and help without being seen. -Carry Akagitsune to a prison cell, one of the stronger ones, carry the military officer to the infirmary, and clean this up, we can’t allow our reputation to be tarnished even further or we will be the laughingstock of the Hidden World.- The Kuroko nodded and left carrying the statue and Gara, while two more dropped from above and began cleaning.
Roshi turned around and continued leading the contingent approach to the official entrance to the JHWAB Kanto HQ, also known as the Azure Sky Gate. At first glance, the location seemed mundane and not very formal, but in reality, it was oozing with history from every stone. A massive Torii stood at the end of the path, in a floating square composed of packed stones. Inside the Torii a swirling blue portal that would connect with the invitations sent to every single Hidden World Organization known to the JHWAB. Roshi didn’t want to do this, but it was high past time to take action as the situation only got worse and worse. The Old Leader never trusted organizations from foreign countries, many ended up working directly under the government, unlike the JHWAB that was merely funded by it. But the crisis at hand couldn’t be handled only by his organization and it was spilling out, it had spilt out, more than once. But before he could keep pondering about the situation, the first guest appeared, crossing the blue portal into the stone Courtyard.
Minister Hou, of the Chinese Hidden World Affairs Office, appeared out of the Torii, dressed in an impeccable black suit with a red tie with a golden star tiepin. His black and grey hair slicked back and minimalist glasses on his eyes. He was flanked by two individuals. On his right was his personal bodyguard, Mingzhi, a young man dressed in very simple black clothing and sporting a bald head. On his left was Garo Takayama, former JHWAB agent and currently working for the BHA. He was hired by Hou to serve both a translator and to help him navigate the bureaucratic entanglements of the JHWAB. -Mr. Yasumori, how good it is to see you.- Hou spoke in Japanese with some effort, mostly pre-rehearsed lines and formalities. His pronunciation wasn’t exactly right, but it was passable enough. Roshi nodded and in perfect chinese, thanks to an Omnyo charm, he replied. -Thanks for assisting to this meeting in such a short notice, I hope this is the start of a friendship between our organizations.-
Hou couldn’t avoid showing a hint of discomfort about Roshi’s tone. The shrewd politician in him was shouting out warnings about the JHWAB Leader’s seemingly diplomatic tone and offer, but Hou silenced that part of him and extended his hand a gesture welcomed by Roshi who replied in kind. Garo silently nodded at Eien no Ha with a smirk, as the Military Branch Leader was surprised by his former subordinate presence. -Please, follow my staff to your accommodations.- Roshi invited Hou as 6 Kuroko manifested from inside Roshi’s shadow and knelt in front of the Chinese Delegation, extending their hands to pick up their luggage. As Hou left another group arrived, composed by two organizations with little to no contact, at least on the surface. The two leading figures were glaring at each other with a mixture of anger and annoyance. They were twins, equals except in attire and two small details. The one on the right had a very dark tan, silver hair and silver eyes, his hair was combed to the right buzzcutted on the sides. He was wearing a white suit with a hawaiian shirt and sandals. His twin had very pale skin, golden eyes and hair that was combed to the left. He was wearing traditional japanese formal wear.
Gin and Kin Torakami are the twin sons of a minor battle deity from an island in the south of the Japanese Archipelago. During their younger years, around 20 years ago, they were absolute pains in the ass for the JHWAB as they constantly attacked other Hidden World Denizens. The Torakami Brothers were absolute nightmares, until they started fighting over the same woman and their parents decided to send one of them to Brazil to live with some relatives. That was the intensity of the hatred they shared, that they had to put an ocean in-between them. Gin ended up going to Brazil and landed a job in the DMO (Departamento Mundo Oculto) while his brother Kin ended up climbing the ranks of the BHA, becoming the supervisor of the whole southern branch of Japan. Now both were sent as representatives of their organizations, without realizing that their hatred didn’t vanish with the years, it only aged like a fine wine, becoming deeper and darker. They were growling at each other, their eyes locked one against the other, but as soon as Roshi gave a light tap of his cane on the floor they stopped their posturing.
-Welcome to the JHWAB HQ gentlemen, please, follow my staff to your accommodations.- Roshi politely asked as the Kuroko manifested out of his shadow. Gin took the word with a strange accent, as if his stay in Brazil degraded his japanese. -Thank you old- He stopped for a second and remembered who he was talking to. -I mean Mr. Yasumori.- He gestured to his entourage, a woman dressed like an executive secretary, with ebony skin and white hair and a man dressed in a lab coat and covered head to toe in bandages, obscuring his face, only showing his eyes and his mouth. -I thank you in the name of the DMO and my companions.- Before Gin could continue with the pleasantries his brother interrupted. -And I thank you in the name of all the members of the BHA Yatagarasu’s Branch and all the BHA members across the world.- Kin smiled arrogantly at his brother, trying to even look a bit taller. Gin didn’t even doubt for a moment and his head clashed against his brother’s pushing forehead against forehead. -ACROSS THE WORLD!? You don’t have the authority for that you ugly motherfucker!- Kin replied in kind, putting pressure against his brother’s forehead. -You’re the ugly one, mother must’ve popped you out through her back door!-
The twins growled like wild dogs fighting over a piece of meat until Roshi gave another tap with his cane on the floor and in an instant they split apart and regained a modicum of composure. -Please, follow my staff and go to your separate accommodations.- The Old Leader made emphasis in the world separate, as a warning and a threat to them. Thankfully they left without much trouble. Roshi sighed as soon as they left the Azure Sky Gate. -Subaru, did you find a replacement for Norio?- He asked the Intelligence Branch Director. The Cold Hearted Director nodded.- I requested support from the Culture Branch, Eiko Kintategami is handling the BHA representative and Yukio Shiraginu himself is in charge of the DMO representatives accommodations.-
Roshi nodded and Subaru continued. -We’ve been drawing more people from the Culture Branch into other roles during the Joint Hidden World talks, they’ve been quite free after we cancelled most events before and after this event.- The heir of the Yuki-Onna also added. -We could save a lot of money if we keep those activities cancelled we can dissolve the Culture Branch and reassign the agents into the remaining branches.- Subaru kept giving out his cold assessment. -Not only would be a way to save money but also it would lower the risk of being found out, the Culture Branch has the most requests for clean up crews and the Intelligence Branch is understaffed and underfunded.- Roshi waved his hand, asking for silence. -We have much larger concerns at the moment than the efficiency of this organization Yukishiro.- And with that Roshi turned around to wait for the next groups to arrive at the Azure Sky Gate, he would greet them by order of arrival.
Norio tapped his foot against the floor as he waited for the Inazuma School contingent. He reminded himself never to end up in Iosif’s debt again, or his future would surely involve more demeaning tasks like this one. For a moment he thought about Callis’ mission, worried about the lack of contact and reminded himself that the coverage in Shirokumo is spotty at best. Plus it was surely a routine mission, I mean, how problematic could a check-up of the prison be. The Old Inspector leaned against one of the massive pillars holding the hangar and just as he did the first of the students came walking through a portal. Raisa Ubiysty arrived leading the group of students. -Raisa Ubiysty, Inazuma Gakuen 3rd Year, reporting.- Behind her other students arrived, maybe possible future officers of the JHWAB. Norio sighed and replied. -I’m Norio Bushitora, Senior Inspector of the JHWAB Intelligence Branch, welcome to the JHWAB Kanto HQ.-
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Post by othus on Feb 2, 2021 4:41:46 GMT
Mexico, Ashen corps HQ
“Man, I really don't want to go to Japan, having to deal with their hidden world bullshit is a pain in the ass, the nerve of these motherfuckers...giving me a call like i’m on their payroll or some shit”- Daniel Valeria, the Director of the Ashen Corps said as he downed a glass of scotch.
“Please refrain from drinking during working hours. By my estimates you should be getting ready right this second,if you do want to arrive on time that is.”-Nova Olivarez, one of the Ashen Corps agents said as she checked Daniel’s schedule.
“God it’s hot when you act all professional” He said as he put on his suit jacket and looked at Nova through the mirror, the agent walked right behind him and whispered to his ear
“That’s harassment in the workplace, sir. I’m afraid I’m going to have to file a complaint to HR”-She told him as she gave him a small peck on the lips. Daniel chuckled a bit and took out the charm teleport the JHWAB had sent him.
“I’ll bring back Sushi or whatever takeout is open over there, do look forward to it”- He told Nova as he activated the teleport charm.
JHWAB, KANTO HQ
“Kanto huh? man, what a fucking mess…”-Daniel said as he walked through the Azure Gate.
Apparently, other organizations had already made their arrival, he didn’t recognize anyone at all, save for Roshi, who was the head of the JHWAB. Daniel reached for a handshake and introduced himself, his Japanese being somewhat understandable but with a heavy accent, that’s probably what he got for trying to learn the whole language in duolingo.
“It’s an honor to meet you. I am Daniel Valeria, came to represent the Ashen Corps for this meeting”-In truth, there were few things Daniel hated more than having to do this kind of thing, he was truly itching to go to a corner and have a smoke instead.
SHINKYO, MUSASHI HQ
Tomoe was already dreading the meeting, had Roshi lost his touch? Ever since she came back, only bad rep on the Japanese office followed. Learning Ikari Fukushi single handledly put them to their knees by infiltrating their HQ only made Tomoe seriously question if the mind blowing budget that was eaten by the JHWAB was worth it. As far as she was concerned, they had become too lax. At this rate, they would be no better than the BHA, which by Musashi clan standards were already regarded as amateurs. If Roshi was not going to deliver results in this meeting, it would only be embarrassing for her clan to support them further. what was the world's image of Japan? The problem is the government always throws money in the wrong direction. Yes, the Musashi charge more than others, but for good reason. Tomoe reached for her Ame no Habakiri and used the teleport charm.
The Azure gate received yet another person. A tall woman, almost two meters tall with long black hair and red eyes, she was wearing a business suit and high heels, but her hair was still flowing free, a long katana in a white hilt was tied to her waist.
“Roshi-Sama, it’s good to see you, are you in good health?”-Tomoe said as she formally bowed, she did a similar but smaller gesture at the people who accompanied him.
"If it’s not rude to ask, is there a lobby or lounge of sorts where I could get a drink before this begins?”-She asked Roshi with an innocent smile. Daniel, who overheard that conversation walked back
“Oh, I would actually like to know that as well, it's okay to smoke here, right?”
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Post by HungryHunter on Feb 2, 2021 7:23:58 GMT
Eve Harper wasn’t sure what to bring. She had her whole array of tools lined up before her, each taking up a section of her body that she couldn’t devote to anything else. What would the JHWAB object to her bringing into their headquarters? She decided to drop her grenade dispenser in favor of her less threatening small gun array. She could shoot a lot of people at once, but most of them would survive, given the weakness of each individual gun. With a similar thought in mind she loaded her left arm with her stun gun, a weapon with less range and easy killing power than her springblade.
Her coat she emptied of doodads and devices until she was sure it would pass an inspection at the door. No bombs or things she could put together into bombs in less than fifteen seconds, no armor-piercing knives or the many pistols she was fidgeted with in her downtime, and none those phones she had found that contained a sapient, evil AI. Just some extra ammunition for her various weapons, surely something expected at a meeting where some other people could kill her with their bare hands. She completed her ensemble moments before the invitation activated, throwing up a glowing blue portal for her.
She took a few more seconds to mentally prepare. Nearly everyone else in attendance would have more influence and power than her by far. She would have to be tough to hang with them. Now that shouldn’t be too hard. The blue portal engulfed her and she found herself right in the heart of the JHWAB’s power. She hadn’t ever expected to be considered important enough to come here, and to be honest, she was pretty sure she wasn’t. They had to be in deep shit if they were calling up people this insignificant. Feeling powerful was nice, but right now she was concerned with the real power of knowledge.
Her eyes scanned everybody in the room. She recognized most of them. Big names. Half of them, Huntsman had pissed off at some point. She’d have to tread carefully, depending on how liable they found her. Best to stick to known friendlies. “Hou, good to see you again! How’s the restructuring going? Garo, glad to have another face here. I wanted to bring somebody but, well, nobody else in the company should be allowed near anybody with power.” She winked.
Not far behind her was a woman who couldn’t be more different past her skin tone. Where Eve was tall and fat, she was average and bone-thin. Her hair was grey and cut close, her outfit an unostentatious pantsuit. Also unlike Eve, she was quite sure she belonged here. She didn’t run a second-rate pest control service, she ruled a country. Her eyes flared briefly red when she saw Eve. She was one of the many people here who had reason to hate Eve’s brother. But she had better things to do than pursue petty grudges. She was interested in Minister Hou, but that would have to wait it seemed.
China had been eager to form relationships with many developing African nations, and adding her name to that list could be advantageous if she played her cards right. Instead, she focused on keeping up appearances. Brazil, that would do. It would fit her pan-African image, what with their population of African-descended Hidden Worlders. “Mister Torakami, it’s a pleasure to meet you at last. The relatives of many of my people live under your jurisdiction, and so many of them praise you.” Her words to Gin were perfectly clipped, smooth, like she was reading from a script. Her host was in mind, but exchanging a quick word with a potential ally first couldn’t hurt.
After Melea was a man who was distinctly ordinary. He was a little shorter than average, wearing a simple business suit, and of an unclear age, with a curly beard covering much of his face. A few traces of grey in his beard may have given some hints to his age, but there was little else to go off of. He stopped a moment and adjusted his tie, and a shudder went through him, throwing off a few strange little motes before he gathered himself. He went right to Roshi, offering his hand. It was strangely hot to the touch, and utterly dry. “Hello, Yasumori-sama. I am Ophiuchus of Flipside. I have always admired the great Hidden World organizations of the world. Keeping order in a world that seems dedicated to dissolving into chaos at every opportunity. Although Japan is not so bad, not since-” He paused when he noticed Tomoe, and for just a single moment, one of his eyes moved separately from the other to follow her movements. “Not since a very long time ago.” He finished like nothing had happened.
This sucked. Marceline didn’t really want to work for the JHWAB. And it wasn’t like she lacked for options. Sure, Smith had gone under. She just couldn’t put up with Chase anymore, and he was always around when Smith was involved. But she still knew Arthur. He could probably get her a nice cushy job where she’d not even have to use the skills she was learning at Inazuma. But she was tired of being a moocher. Her life was defined by people with more smarts, money and power than her making decisions for her and she was sick of it. At least working for the JHWAB was a choice, and one she could make on her own. She’d just have to try hard not to flip off anybody too important while she was here.
She was unarmed, at least to the naked eye. Bodyguard training at Inazuma had made her extra-clever at hiding her power-ups, and little needles, peppers, and other implements of minor torture were hidden all over her body. The vibrantly pink outfit Haruko had made her had plenty of pockets, even in the trousers under her skirt, making it a touch easier on her to do so. Not that she expected trouble, but if she was expected to show off, it was always nice to have the boost.
Not far from her, Ava El-Gazzawy hunched, trying not to be noticed. She had woken up late, having forgotten about this trip. As such, she lacked any of the usual polish she spent her mornings on. Her hair was frizzy, barely kept under control by a headscarf she had thrown over it, and her eyes, the only exposed part of her face, lacked the makeup she normally wore. She was hideous, in her mind, and as such would rather be ignored. It wasn’t like the JHWAB would have much interest in a mute hybrid anyway.
While Ava hunched, Dranten Amandaka stood stiff and straight. He knew no other way to stand, really. It would never occur to him to slouch or slump; half his brain wasn’t even convinced that he could do such a thing. Of the people here, he was probably the one most interested in the career opportunities here. A steady, constant supply of work, with no room for human weakness, and most importantly, a solid, constant structure. It beat out fast food work for involving battle, should be join the right branch, something his brain was programmed for and desperately craved. Ludomir hadn’t necessarily approved. He had said something about Dranten finding his own path, but he said it was Dranten’s choice to make. He lingered on that now, but he simply didn’t understand. Wasn’t this finding his own path? Just because the path was made by a labyrinthine bureaucracy didn’t mean it wasn’t his choice to take it.
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Post by TimePuppy on Feb 7, 2021 23:01:49 GMT
Walking slightly behind and to the side of Ophiuchus was Morgan, wearing a dark long-tailed suit over a plain shirt. As usual, his face was obscured by a white mask with a purple butterfly pattern on it, hiding a gloomy expression from the world. Jade eyes scanned the room with a curious mix of caution and boredom. A rambunctious lot from all the major hidden world organizations was gathered here. That made it either the safest or the most dangerous place in the world right now, and it was Morgan's job as bodyguard to assess which one was the case, as much as he wasn't a fan of the assignment.
He stayed silent as his charge approached Roshi Yasumori, only bowing curtly out of obligation. He looked him over for any signs of weaponry, though the leader of JHWAB probably didn't need any, either because of sheer power or all the henchmen waiting in the wings in case of an emergency. Still, power or henchmen wouldn't stop Morgan from carrying his own black dagger strapped to the back of his belt and hidden under the coattails, as long as it was allowed into the building.
On the opposite side, with a lot more enthusiasm than Morgan, though showing about as much as he was, was Remilia Arling. Inspired by her dad, Remily always wanted to join law enforcement, going as far to become a vigilante when she discovered her powers. She didn't know they stemmed from her being a shindo of hacking, and it didn't matter. They were useful.
Now, after joining the prestigious fighting academy to hopefully learn to stand up to the tougher people the hidden world would throw at her, she was given an opportunity to learn more about hidden world law enforcement. It was perfect. Her excited gait revealed her emotions more than her face did, though she slowed somewhat when they reached their, for lack of a better word, tour guide. She didn't miss the sigh before he addressed them. Remilia remembered how her dad described visits from school children to the precinct. Nice that they were learning about their police force, but exhausting and time wasting. Though he'd always put up a smile for the kids, their own guide had a fairly older audience and had no problems revealing his true feelings, subtly as he may have done so.
Her enthusiasms curbed slightly, she patted her purse. It was where she carried her quantum computer and the keepsake her dad gave her as she was leaving for Japan. She had to keep it in mind, remember her goal here. She wanted to learn more about the organisation and leave good first impression if she could. That should help her future career.
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Post by Vapovile on Feb 13, 2021 7:01:08 GMT
Aria sat at her office desk, reading the latest reports from their operations dealing with a tribe of skeletal molemen beneath a rural town in Columbia, when her intercom came on. “Miss Miyata, it’s about time for that meeting in Japan. Are you prepared?” The male voice asked. Aria nodded her head and stood up. She wore a pair of black business pants and matching jacket, showing her white blouse beneath. Located in her jacket were several tools that would come useful should any conflict erupt, including several condensed solar power batteries that would recharge her reserves should she run out.
“Thank you Marty, I was just finishing up reading some reports. Is Mia at the teleport station yet?” Aria asked. “She’s been there for the past 5 minutes, just messing with her phone. You think this requires well, this much firepower?” He asked with curiosity in his voice. Aria opened the door and looked at him directly. “I am going to be blunt with you; I don’t really trust the JHWAB right now. They don’t seem to be able to keep what’s going on within their borders secure, especially after what happened in Osaka. So no, I don’t really trust their security’s top notch either. They’re lucky the Musashi are there to help out, even if they have issues of their own.” She told the man sitting at his desk, who let out a sigh.
“I guess you’re right. Good luck out there, chief!” He called after her, Aria smiling and giving him a wave without turning back. Her heels clicked across the hallway when she happened upon a red-headed woman standing next to the teleport stations. She wore a grey and black checkered skirt that stopped just above her knees, and a grey vest over a white long-sleeve shirt. She finished the look with a purple bow tie that was situated squarely on her chest.
“Sorry about that, Mia. You ready?” Aria stopped in front of her station, Mia looking up from her phone and pocketing it. “As I’ll ever be. First favor you’re asking this month, by the way.” Mia informed, always keeping track of how many times a month the HWIC asks her on special assignments. “Of course, we appreciate all you do for us. Now, let’s not be late.” On cue, both stepped onto their platforms and were teleported directly to the meeting portal.
Both scanned the room, spotting high profile people everywhere. And Eve. Aria made particular note of the despot who ruled a tiny African country, and was someone whom she wanted to arrest right now. She also noticed the tall black-haired Musashi woman, mentally making a sigh of relief that they didn’t send the patriarch of the Musashi instead. Walking up to Roshi, Aria gave a polite bow and looked the onmyo master in the eyes.
“Thank you for inviting us, Mr. Yasumori. We hope the JHWAB is open to further cooperation between our two organizations.” She said in a professional tone. Her eyes further drifted when she saw Ophiuchus. So Flipside was here too? Aria hoped there weren’t more representatives of these less-than-ethical organizations who survive by being protected by other governments.
---
Meanwhile, a tall man followed the others into the Kanto office, his brown hair in complete disarray. He wore a plain black t-shirt under an open grey hoodie, and a pair of jeans whose knees were worn out. He raised his hand casually when it came his turn. “Sid Renen, nice too meetcha.” He said casually. In truth, he didn’t care to be here either. But he thought it might be fun to see what an actual organization would be like, unlike all the odd jobs he’s done up to now. Plus, there were some Inazuma people here.
Scanning the room, Sid shrugged his shoulders and walked up and took a spot next to the pink-clothed girl with a profoundly negative aura. “Yo, didn’t know you were into the whole police uniform thing.” He joked, making a finger gun at Marceline. “Anyway, neat seeing ya here.” He leaned his heads against his hands, waiting for instruction.
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Post by Kuma on Mar 16, 2021 3:56:17 GMT
-Mr. Valeria, it’s my pleasure to finally get to know you.- Roshi extended his hand. -Tales of your exploits are quite legendary, most of the members of the JHWAB Military Branch seem to hold you in high esteem.- Roshi wasn’t just paying lip service, he had read many reports about the Ashen Corps and he was more than impressed with their record, even if their circumstances were different. -Please, let my staff guide you and your people to your lodgings, we will start the meeting as soon as possible, but please make yourselves comfortable.- Roshi bowed and gestured to Daniel to follow the servants assigned to them. Leading that group was Eien no Ha, the Military Branch Leader. Roshi then turned towards the next delegation.
-Musashi-dono, how good is to see you again.- Roshi smiled. -I’m as spry as I was when I was half my age, thank you for your concern.- The JHWAB Leader really hoped to keep relationships with the Musashi Clan in good condition, unlike other HW leaders that were more or less the only authority in their countries, he had to avoid pissing off the family of monster hunting demigods in his backyard. -I hope the summons wasn’t too rushed, I know there are many layers of protocol and ceremony to uphold, I know that better than most.- Roshi made a joke at his own expense as many younger agents complained about certain traditions he upheld, something so well known it was bound to reach the ears of the Musashi Clan. -But extraordinary circumstances need extraordinary measures, that’s why the request for this meeting was so rushed, for that I apologize.- He heard her request and quickly replied. -Yes, my staff will guide you there.- He instructed the JHWAB staff members, led by Subaru Yukishiro, the Intelligence Branch leader, to guide Tomoe Musashi and her entourage towards the Officer’s Lounge.
-Is great to see you too Ms. Harper, I wish I could stay and talk, but I must reach my lodgings, I’ve a lot to prepare.- Hou replied as his entourage was getting ready to leave towards their lodgings. Garo nodded and even smiled, replying to Evelyn’s comment with. -I’m happy you didn’t bring Degiraz, he is atop the list of people you mentioned.- The Old Archer smiled again and left alongside Hou, turning around for a second and adding. -Take care of yourself Ms. Harper.- Garo was quite chipper, an important contrast to his usual stoic and almost surly demeanor. As Hou left, Roshi approached Evelyn
The Old Leader of the JHWAB knew little about Evelyn, he had met members of the Wild Hunt before, but he never met the leader of the organization. -Harper-dono I presume, I’ve heard great things about you and your organization, mostly thanks to acquittances in common.- Roshi did a small bow. -You might ask yourself why were you invited and I must admit some of my advisors were against it, but truth to be told if my first impression about your subordinate, the one called “Huntsman” is right, then you belong among this conference participants.- The Old Leader snapped his fingers, summoning more shadow servants. -They will guide you to your lodgings, I would love to stay and talk but I must play host to more groups, thanks for assisting to this conference Harper-dono.- And with that said Roshi moved towards the next group.
Gin turned around still mouthing curses at his brother and shifted from petty child into all business in the blink of an eye. He was instructed by several of his superiors to never, never piss off certain individuals. He was warned against insulting the Musashi Clan, members of the Miyata Family and Melea Zines. She wasn’t lying when she talked about the connections between her sphere of domain and the country he worked in. -Ms. Zines, how wonderful to meet you.- He put on his best diplomat smile and bowed. -Is such an honor, many of the denizens in my country cannot speak highly about you and what you represent for them.- That was also true, as many denizens that had been forcibly moved from their lands or moved out of curiosity saw Melea as a beacon of hope for their ancestral homeland. -I’ve been around this building more than once in the past, it would be my honor to guide you and help you in anyway you want.-
Down the hall a very faint echo of a shout could be heard, as Gin’s brother, who could overhear the conversation even at a distance shouted “BOOTLICKER”. Gin kept his composure even if every fiber of his being screamed for him to suckerpunch his brother on the back of his head. -As I said, anything you need, just let me know.- Gin never backed out or cowered, but the threats his superiors issued were horrifying enough to keep the usually temperamental Half-Tiger in check.
-Ophiuchus-dono, pleased to make your acquittance.- Roshi extended his hand, mimicking the western etiquette. -I must admit I’m not well informed about your organization activities, but my esteemed Intelligence Director requested me to extend the invitation to you because some of the information that we will disclose in our meeting might be of interest for you.- Roshi wasn’t as clueless about Flipside as he was attempting to appear, he had a pretty good idea about some of their operations, but not as much as he would like. Still, he had a delectable nugget of information that he could wave like a carrot in front of their faces in exchange for some favors. -Please, follow the designated staff member and they will take you to your lodgings.- Roshi couldn’t avoid smiling upon noticing Morgan sizing him up, that hasn't happened in a very long while.
Roshi then turned to the last delegation and one of the most important ones, as the HWIC was one of the few organizations with international outreach and recognition. -Miyata-dono, I’m so pleased you could join us, I’m positively thrilled that the HWIC could spare some time for this.- There was one issue about that, though, even when Roshi was well aware of the importance of the HWIC in the Hidden World Stage, he really, really didn’t like the Miyatas. Maybe it was because he was an old school guy and disliked the idea of an international Hidden Organization. -I hope your lodgings are comfortable and up to your standards.- The sarcasm was coming out Roshi like water from a broken faucet, he couldn’t shut the fuck up. He knew it, but he didn’t care at this point, he spent all his diplomatic acumen before. -Please follow my staff to your lodgings.- Another troop of Shadow Servants manifested, but no higher up Official was going to guide them, once again a display of Roshi’s antipathy for the HWIC and the Miyatas.
Norio was beyond pissed that he was basically forced to do this. He had been working non-stop for weeks preparing for the conference and he would miss the opening salvos because of a damn favor he owed to the wrong person. He even learned to speak in Portugese to talk to the Brazilian ambassador from the DMO. He later found out they were sending one of the Torakami brothers, and all of his effort was in vain, but he still put the effort for the whole thing and now he was trapped as a glorified tour guide for a bunch of brats.
The Intelligence Branch Senior Inspector observed the group, curious about their diverse looks and equipment. -First and foremost, we need to do something important.- A paper charm appeared on Norio’s hand, almost as if it was thanks to sleight of hand, and he threw it on the ground. A large hole opened up, a portal, that showcased a massive storage room. -Please deposit all your weapons and equipment here, you will be given a voucher that you will redeem for your belongings when the tour ends.- The Senior Inspector expected somebody to attempt to excuse themselves from this obvious security protocol, so he waited for a second if anybody attempted to talk and actively interrupted them, if nobody talked he would only add information, without cutting anybody off.
-Please don’t forget to deposit any kind of weapons you have, if you don’t do that serious consequences will befall you and your legal guardian if you have one.- The Senior Inspector sighed, hoping that would be enough to convince them to do what he was telling them. -If you have any questions before the start of the tour please raise your hand.-
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Post by othus on Mar 16, 2021 4:56:17 GMT
Tomoe looked around and noticed Aria, she was the current head of the HWIC, wasn’t she? Musashi approached the blond woman and offered a handshake, clearly modifying her greeting to a more western approach “A Pleasure to meet you Aria-San, My name is Tomoe Musashi, up until recently my husband had been in charge of the Musashi but I am now back as head of the clan, we are very grateful with all the assistance you have provided over the years in tracking and capturing criminals that fled out of the country.”
Tomoe walked closer to Aria and whispered at her
“That being said, I would appreciate it very much if you could hand over the criminals on our list to my clan and not to the JHWAB, particularly rogue Musashi agents and other transgressors, the way we deal with them is...slightly different”
Tomoe incorporated back to her height and smiled
“In any case, I look forward to cooperating with you, please know that no criminal in the HWIC black list is safe in Japan. we will gladly hand over any criminals looking for a safe haven in Japan back to your hands, in the best shape we can allow of course”
Daniel looked around quick, apparently that giant woman wasn't gonna go to the lounge right away, he had to find a drinking partner fast...one that wasn't into the bureaucratic shit like him would be ideal.
"Excuse me, you are wild hunt, yes? I was gonna go to the lounge, but they say alcohol tastes better in company, would you join me?"-he told Eve as he turned around and headed for the lounge
"Two Mezcales, one for me, one for the pretty lady, and I'll also have a stout beer"
Daniel looked at Eve for a while and smiled
"Let's play a game, let me try to read you, you are welcome to try back, but if I get it right, you have to take a shot"
Daniel had a sip of beer and proceeded
"I think you came here just for networking, you hate crap like this but since important people are starting to take you seriously, you couldn't decline the offer. how's that, am I in the ballpark? or maybe this is where you thow that drink to my face"
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Post by HungryHunter on Mar 17, 2021 3:00:06 GMT
“I know better than to bring Falken here! Besides, him and I are done since that nonsense in that abandoned lab.” She waved Garo off to greet the approaching head of the JHWAB. “Ah-heh. What exactly have you heard about Huntsman?” She sheepishly asked. Not all of the potential answers were negative; she wouldn’t still have him on her payroll if they were. Still, she wasn’t thrilled to know that that was their first understanding of her. Although perhaps… they needed his skills? Now that gave her some leverage. There weren’t many people who could get him to cooperate with this many big names. “Alright, lodgings. Looks like a long meeting.” Eve pulled a notebook from one of her many pockets and scribbled down ideas as she followed the servants.
She didn't make it far before she was approached by one of the other delegates. Mexican, if she remembered his face right. She blinked in surprise, but he was decent-looking and didn't read as stuffy as everybody else here. "A drinking game right before an important meeting? Fuck it, I can take it. You're on." Eve happily followed him to the bar and took the offered drink. She was normally more partial to rum, but this didn't smell half-bad. "I'll give you half credit. This is mostly networking, but I don't think it's just me getting noticed. There's a lot of nobodies here, people I haven't even heard of. So I figure this is genuinely a big deal and they need everybody they can get. So, half-shot." She slurped down what was likely a little more than half her glass. "As for you, you hate stuff like this too, but you're too important not to come. It looks bad for your organization if you don't show up."
“I do nothing any leader who wants the best for her people wouldn’t. All praise is overblown.” Melea downplayed how happy she was to get some praise for her hard work. Surely she deserved some admiration once in a while, working herself to the bone like she did. Similarly, she hid her annoyance as best she could when Gin’s brother yelled. Her eye flashed red once again and she closed it until the glow of anger passed. “A guide would be very appreciated, Mr. Torakami. Please, show me the way. Let us avoid the crowd.” She offered her arm to him.
“There’s not so much to know. We’re one of the leading companies in Hidden World technology, but very little of that is interesting. Antennae to tap your radio into ghost stations and the like. Still, we do supply most of the world’s major HW organizations, so perhaps we will be useful in whatever situation you are facing. I always hate when we have to use our weapons programs, but if the need calls…” Ophiochus sighed and shrugged. “Apologies for not introducing you. This is my bodyguard for the day, Morgan. He is also one of our top programmers, in case you need any code looked at while we’re here.” He joked, attempting to keep the tone light.
Marceline turned her eye with deliberate slowness when she heard Sid’s voice, as if she could convince him she hadn’t noticed him if she was slow enough in looking. Sadly, he remained just where he was, and she was forced to acknowledge him. “Yeah, not really into the cop thing. But hey, being good at punching people only opens so many career paths so I might as well hear about the benefits.” She sighed and gave up a long-bladed stiletto knife. The rest of her tools she kept. For one, they weren’t really weapons, just enhancers for her. For another, she would feel awkward dumping out a bunch of clothespins and peppers into a bin.
Behind her, Ava awkwardly searched her whole body for various poisoned needles, dropping each one painstakingly in a locker. She counted them a few times in her head, making sure she didn’t forget any, and eventually decided she had done it. Dranten stood still, trying to process this request. Soon he decided he didn’t have enough information and raised a hand.
“Sir. I have built-in rocketry systems integral to the structure of my hands. I cannot remove them without reducing the function of my hands significantly, and the process to do so could take me upwards of 26 minutes, estimated. May I keep my rocketry systems, under the condition that I suppress their use?” He twisted his wrist, showing how rockets emerged from it, and popped off his hand to show how it floated on its own, ready to fly out at his command. “I apologize for my oversight. I would have brought replacement hands without these systems if I realized they would not be allowed.”
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Post by Vapovile on Mar 22, 2021 4:23:34 GMT
Aria took note of Roshi’s sarcasm, and further noticed that there were only shadow servants that would escort them away. “Thank you, I’m sure the JHWAB will provide only the most excellent service.” She said half-sarcastically, her heels making a loud click when she took a step forward toward the servants. Aria felt a strange sign of relief at Roshi’s sarcasm, it indicated Roshi’s headspace through all the polite rhetoric. Her eyes drifted when another tall woman approached her.
Tomoe Musashi, Aria took special note of her saying ‘back as head of the clan’. So she was at some point before Orochi? Aria made a mental note to ask Mia later to write this question down. Aria gave a professional smile and shook the Musashi’s hand firmly. “Thank you. Aria Miyata, head of the HWIC. This is Mia.” Aria motioned to the redhead, who gave a noncommittal wave. She wasn’t here to be a diplomat, just a glorified security guard.
Aria listened to Tomoe go on about cooperation and nodded. “Cooperation would be wonderful, Mrs. Musashi. I am aware of our organization’s differences in view on appropriate punishment, and that is certainly an issue we can discuss regarding prisoner transfers. But rest assured; the HWIC won’t let criminals run free in the areas we monitor either.” She replied to Tomoe.
Tomoe’s point on handing people over to the Musashi instead of the JHWAB struck at the heart of Aria’s difficulty in dealing with Japan. On one hand, she didn’t think the JHWAB was a stable enough organization to keep Japan safe. On the other, the Musashi took a barbaric approach to justice that removed all trial elements that Aria’s legal principles were rooted in. How could anyone call that justice?
Deciding to probe for further information, Aria lowered her voice. “So I must ask, Mrs. Musashi. Has the Musashi had any difficulty dealing with any of the strange events occurring around Japan these last few years? We do get some intel you see, but it’s a little difficult when it’s not a land under your jurisdiction. You understand.” She tried to subtly convey her points across. If she could get the Musashi’s cooperation, the HWIC might have more of a hand in assisting Japan should the need arise.
---
Sid paused when Norio asked them to deposit their weapons. He could pretty well justify his boots being just footwear, but the shiny medal in his pocket was another deal. Sid knew he could probably just keep it in there and say it’s a good luck charm...but he also didn’t want ‘serious consequences’ to befall him. The Hidden World had all kinds of fancy tech and magic, they’d probably detect something like this through his pocket. Reaching into his pocket, Sid flipped the coin from his thumb into the air and into a locker, walking back out.
He then turned his attention to Marceline. “Well, sounds rad. Plenty of stuff to punch around here.” He then turned his attention to the girl putting tons of poison needles into the locker. “So, you use needles, huh? I knew a girl that tossed around these tiny knives with like, wires attached. Fun pokey stuff.” He nodded at the girl in the headscarf. “Sid Renen, by the way. 15th strongest legs in the world. Probably not.” He offered a handshake to the strange girl, chuckling at his own joke.
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Post by TimePuppy on Mar 28, 2021 22:26:04 GMT
Morgan listened to Ophiachus's introduction. "Mmm, yes, if I can help increase this event's security, I'd be happy to oblige." He feigned courteousness. "And if you'd like to purchase our services for other matters, it can be arranged."
He watched Roshi leave to attend to a different delegation. HWIC, Morgan recognized. The blond Aria wasn't hard to recognize. But that wasn't his problem now. rather, he turned to his boss. "Ophiochus, are we offering free samples now? Or do you merely want to suck up to the Japanese?" He mocked. "Well, I'd be careful with that. The tensions in this place are high. Those loud-mouth brothers for one. JHWAB and HWIC seem to have disagreements too. I wouldn't be surprised if some organizations end up coming to blows in the future. We should avoid picking favorites if we want both sides to use our services." --- Remilia listened attentively. Unlike some of her classmates, she could easily give up her gear, the quantum computer and folders in her bag and the batton strapped to her thigh, though she had to admit to feeling a bit naked without them. She'd gotten used to carrying them with her at all times. But this place should be safe at least, right? And she'd gotten better at hand-to-hand since she joined Inazuma, so she should be able to hold her own in a worst case scenario.
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Post by Kuma on Apr 23, 2021 3:27:26 GMT
Norio sighed. -Yes, you can keep your rocket arms, but I’m disarming you the moment I see anything funny.- The Chief Inspector was quite frustrated by the situation and decided, in a very petty manner, that he would take it out on the kids, scaring them straight or at the least scaring them enough for them to learn not to fuck around in Japan or the JHWAB would fuck them up. A plan was brewed in his mind to show them the darkest corners of the HQ. But before he could finish hatching the plan, something important happened.
The mystical portal open by Norio had a blue outline around it. Each time anything passed through it the outline brilliance increased for an instant. Everything seemed to be in order until Sid Renen put his stuff through. Then the outline turned red, the portal letting out a mystic chime, alerting Norio, who looked at the portal, and then he turned towards Sid, narrowing his eyes into slits and he asked with a mixture of surprise and shock. -What the hell did you just throw in there!?-
Gin Torakami was all smiles as he escorted Melea towards the area set up for the guests. The JHWAB spared no expense for the temporal lodgings, carving a massive underground dome and setting up a myriad of defensive spells while also mixing some advanced tech to generate a fake ceiling. Each party of guests had three buildings inside the dome dedicated to them, built in the style of their country of origin or if lacking one default to a minimalist architectural design. One building was for the leaders, the second for their entourage, and the third building was equipped with a kitchen, bathhouse, and other commodities, staffed by the best chefs the JHWAB employed.
The Golden Tiger Demigod couldn’t avoid thinking how much his status would increase in the eyes of his home office if he managed to establish great diplomatic relations with Melea, not to mention he himself was looking for other types of relationships during this summit. He knew the layout of the lodgings as he had some contacts inside the JHWAB, most of them former hoodlums or criminals that got forcibly recruited to the bureau in the late ’90s during a very harsh event that cost them many of their agents at that time. Once they arrived at the area reserved for Kuracongo’s entourage Gin took a deep bow. -It has been truly an honor to escort you Zines-sama, I hope you have a great summit.- He extended both arms in front of him, with his business card towards Melea. -If you need anything else, please don’t doubt to call me and I’ll come in a flash.- He smiled and winked before leaving.
Gin thought he did okay. He was overconfident like that.
-That won’t be necessary, but thanks so much for the offer.- Roshi politely refused with a smile, clearly getting the joke. -I hope your accommodations are acceptable, I must continue greeting the rest of the groups.- Roshi did a small bow. -My staff will be able to direct you towards the housing or to a rest area in route to it, there are refreshments, craft services, and spirits.- It was Roshi’s time to make a joke. -Both in liquid and spectral form.- And with that and a smile, he gradually moved away from the Flipside’s entourage.
Meanwhile, back in Norio’s jolly tour, he was still glaring at Sid, asking again, while he walked towards him, looming over menacingly. -What the hell did you bring here kid!?- Raisa, who had already placed her sword in the portal approached them and asked. -What seems to be the problem Bushitora-dono?- She looked at Sid with a look he must know by now, the same kind of look she has when she has to stop a fight in the school, more often than not, through the true and tested method of escalating the violence to the point the conflicting parties decide that violence is not the way to solve their problems. And all that animosity and, let’s say “Maiming Intent” instead of killing, was directed towards Sid.
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Post by othus on Apr 23, 2021 4:00:56 GMT
"Well, Personally I am more interested in our similarities than our differences. Yes, I'm sure you would like to know what happens around here, and I would probably not mind sharing all the details, but here in Japan we usually bring gifts to the person we want favors from"-Tomoe replied with a cheerful but fake smile. the first adjective that came to mind after talking to Aria was control freak,She was not satisfied with having the largest area of influence on the planet, she also wanted a spoonful of whatever Japan had. The second however was perfectionist. Tomoe wouldn't mind opening the back doors of Japan to the HWIC, as long as they also had something to offer, and she was damn sure they did.
"Fuck, i think you might be better at this game than me"- Daniel said as he downed a shot and then washed it down with beer. he waved the bartender for another round of everything.
"Yeah, I hate crap like this, and I'm still 7 years away from retirement, not too long ago I was fighting giant monsters and piloting mechas, look at me now, I can't even drive my own car without some douchebag from the corp following me all the way home. security concerns my ass. Anyway, let me take a second guess: Maybe not the main reason, but you accepted having a drink with me cause you think I'm bloody handsome"- Daniel chuckled, knowing full well it was bullshit, but keeping it flirty was more entertaining for sure.
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Post by Vapovile on Apr 23, 2021 6:04:44 GMT
The reaction took Aria back slightly. It was clear she had struck a nerve, perhaps it was too early to ask for cooperation from the Musashi after all. Time to backtrack a little. "Then perhaps we should lighten this talk and take this say...5 meters to the left?" Aria motioned her hand, showing the bar next to them. "I would be happy to pay for whichever drink you so desire, Mrs. Musashi. I'm personally going to have some red wine, myself." Aria strolled over and pulled out a chair for Tomoe, followed by her own and sitting down. Mia took a seat to Aria's left, ordering a white wine for herself. Once Tomoe had ordered, Aria turned to the Musashi leader.
"Apologies if that came across as inconsiderate. The HWIC has great respect for the Musashi, you see. And speaking of such, I must ask. How on Earth did you manage to defeat those storm gods? Our own Intelligence branch couldn't believe the reports when they came in, but it was indeed true. A battle on a godly scale." Aria asked, smiling and taking a sip of her wine. While Aria was far from godlike herself, the presence to her left gave a little reassurance that they were on a similar playing field. It was fortunate that these women didn't turn their powers against society at large, for few have the power to stop them.
---
Sid froze when the portal went red, followed by Norio singling him out. A mild pang of worry went down his spine. Despite his ultra relaxed attitude, he didn't particularly enjoy being singled out for conflict. And now the sword girl was helping him out...wonderful. Seeing as it was useless to try and hide it, Sid shrugged his shoulders and looked in the portal.
"Just a medal, chief. No idea why it's freaking out about that old thing. Found it one day and it kinda seemed magical, so I tossed it in just to be sure." He said casually. It was mostly true, he had no idea what that thing was besides that it came from Sakurajima, and it gave him a cool suit. But beyond that, no clue.
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Post by HungryHunter on Apr 23, 2021 17:38:56 GMT
“Actually you got me on that one. That and you don’t seem as much of a stuffy bore as everybody else here.” Eve filled her glass and chugged it. “I don’t really see you as a professional contact. The BHA has a pretty tight grip on North America. I’ve got some jobs way down south, but above Panama, it’s their turf.” She thought for a moment about what to ask in turn. “Well it’s too obvious that the same goes for you, so how about something else. Actually, fuck the game, you used to pilot mechas? Seriously?” Her eyes were lighting up. “I’ve never even gotten to drive a tank, and that’s like my dream. Tell me about those mechs.”
Melea accepted the card with a smile. “Thank you, Mr. Torakami. I will keep this by my side. You can expect a special call to your embassy after this meeting concludes.” She was glad to see him go. He wasn’t particularly horrid company, but she needed to save her energy for the meeting itself. As soon as he was gone, she sighed and closed the door, checking out her surroundings. She couldn’t relax just yet. An app opened on her phone, a custom device bought through Flipside’s secret channels. She began waving her phone over every surface, letting it scan for microphones and cameras.
“I am afraid I do not partake, but I appreciate the offer.” Ophiochus nodded back at Roshi and went to find his quarters. “Corporations don’t play by the same rules as governments. American gun makers sell guns to cartels and insurgents, America and China rail at each other but buy each other’s goods. There are no sides to pick. Is the HWIC supposed to pass up on services they need just because they don’t like our ties to the JHWAB? Of course not.” He smiled at Morgan. “Although if I were to pick one, it would be the HWIC. Have you seen Miss Miyata anywhere?”
Ava startled when Sid talked to her. Somebody was paying attention to her! And he was tall too! She blushed under her mask and signed desperately. All she was able to communicate in the seconds before Sid’s attention was elsewhere was that she couldn’t talk. “Understood, sir.” Dranten saluted Norio, then turned his own attention to Sid. He did not at all recognize this supposed weapon Sid was ridding himself of. What was going on, exactly? Marceline just took the opportunity to get herself away from him. Like hell she was going to be collateral damage if things got ugly!
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Post by TimePuppy on Apr 24, 2021 21:13:43 GMT
"Heh," Mephiles chuckled through his mask. "I will concede. Our strongest competitors cannot get close to our quality. All sides know they cannot afford lesser tools." Mmm, perhaps Ophiochus did think this through. He deserved his CEO position after all.
"Aria went toward the bar," Morgan informed his boss. "With the godslayer. Wait, no, it was 'Devourer of gods' if I recall correctly. A surprisingly popular title, to be sure." He sniggered at his own joke. That reminded him, he had seen Eve Harper around before, but Huntsman wasn't around. Nor was anyone else from her ramshackle organization. Probably for the best; it was a big enough surprise they were invited at all. Anyone but her would ensure they would be kicked out as well.
But perhaps the matter they were gathered for was just so serious after all. Wild Hunt's relative importance in the grand scheme of things certainly didn't bode well. Would could possibly be grand enough? As much as he tried to think of something, he just didn't know. --- A sudden emergency. A fault of one of the students? Remilia watched the scene unfold, not really wanting to get involved. She didn't know the guy who was in trouble anyway. But with another student joining the JHWAB agent, she was starting to feel like this was an unfair situation for Sid. She could not abide by that.
"Sir, with all due respect, none of the students here would knowingly bring in something dangerous. It would simply not be allowed by our school, for our sake and its own," she said matter-of-factly. "Such an aggressive tone is not required."
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Post by Kuma on May 3, 2021 4:06:42 GMT
-Did you just say a Medal!?- Norio’s eyes opened as wide as they could, as his fingers feverishly moved around the outline of the portal, each place he touched raised a series of floating circular seals made out of mystical energy, each of them with a kanji representing different types of contraband.
It wasn’t magical, it wasn’t tech-based, it lacked traces of necromancy, mysticism, omnyojutsu, or even energy signatures associated with Drifters. Finally, the last one of the circles floating above the portal shifted from blue to red. The latest addition to this battery of tests, created to detect a particular dimensional signature. One that corresponds to the data the JHWAB had on the Gainen Space.
Norio, without skipping a beat took a glove out of his coat pocket and put it on. A faint shimmer of blue kanji rippled over the leather and he sunk the hand into the portal, picking out the Gainen Medal of Impact. He showed it directly to Sid’s face and asked. -How did you get a Gainen Medal?- His expression was quite fearsome and his tone clearly showed that he wasn’t fucking around. The JHWAB had been working for this summit for almost 1 year, as gathering all members of the Hidden Community was quite difficult. Security was the first priority of the organization, which decided against using above-ground accommodations and even rejected the idea of using part of the JHWAB HQ as the location. For the purpose of the summit, a new underground complex was created, with the help of several contractors that signed up extensive NDA contracts that even included memory wiping. A large collection of Bounty Hunters, Mercenaries, members of the Hidden World Community, and more were employed to create the massive convention center underground.
The construction took a lot of time and resources, the first was in short quantity, while the latter was easily solvable using an old law from the Taisho accords, forcing most of the founding families of the Japanese Hidden World to collaborate with taxation. That was one of the reasons for Moe Akakitsune’s extra sass against Roshi. She was, mostly forced, to be the spearhead of this taxation effort, which made her burn many bridges just for something so transient and finite as the puny organization she was currently involved with thanks to the Taisho Accords.
Every conceivable security measure was used for this building. Technology built from the ground up in-house, spells, charms, and even some interdimensional tech. The crown jewel of the whole security system was the main conference hall, split apart from everything else in the convention center by a dimensional membrane. Functionally the conference room exists on its own pocket dimension, with only a single anchor point, at least publicly. There are multiple anchor points that serve as portals in and out, but they’re hidden and only known by a handful of selected high-ranking members of the JHWAB and even they don’t know every single last of them.
The purpose of such impossibly elaborate defensive measures was to limit any kind of information leaks. Only leading members of the Hidden Community would be allowed inside the conference hall, lacking any kind of recording equipment. The JHWAB was about to disclose the largest amount of confidential Hidden World information ever in modern history to other organizations. This was unprecedented, and even more when it came to the JHWAB, which has been one of the least cooperative organizations around the world. In fact, if there was ever a ranking of inter-organization cooperation Japan would be close to the very bottom.
There are three factors for this reputation and their modus operandi. Firstly is historic, as the Japanese Hidden World still holds grudges after the diplomatic bullying Japan suffered during the end of the 1800s. Secondly is a matter of mundane diplomacy, as most of the close-by countries don’t have the best relationship with Japan, and that extends, a little, into the Hidden Realm. Lastly, but not least important, it was Roshi, who really, really, really disliked foreigners, after having to deal with the allies of his brother during WW II to take over the JHWAB.
So, this event was quite momentous. And for that reason, they went all out both in security and comfort. The lodgings dome was tailor-made for every guest, taking into account any notes or requests (With certain security inclined limitations) from the different envoys. Then there is the lobby, a large enough bar/lounge to hold almost every single attendee, and in the back multiple private rooms for any dealings or parallel meetings. The only exit at least publicly is the Azure Gate and it opens twice a day, allowing passage with a schedule, as a security measure. There are alternative exits but only known to the high-ranking JHWAB members.
Each group was given a set of three objects. First, it was a tablet with information about the locations and maps of the public areas. Second, they were issued identification badges with the indication that they must carry them always outside the lodging dome. Finally, the last piece of the welcome package was a series of emergency charms, the instructions attached indicate that in case of a medical emergency they should break the green charm, the yellow charm is meant to be broken in case of any security emergency and the red charm will summon the closest High-ranking JHWAB officer to handle any emergency exits from the convention.
So, the stage is set, in 2 hours the initial meeting of this historic summit will begin, how will the different envoys spend their time before the classified JHWAB files are exposed?
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Post by othus on May 3, 2021 6:57:10 GMT
Tomoe gently clapped with a smile when Aria offered to pay for her drink.
"I would very much like that!"-She said as she followed Aria to the bar.
"I'll have Mizuwari, Hibiki 17 is fine"-She told the bartender. Tomoe listened attentively at Aria's question and after taking a sip of her drink, she answered
"Well, the short answer is...I chopped them to bits and ate their flesh"-She replied as she made a karate chop motion with her hand. She then further explained
"Used this blade right here, the thing with Shinto, is they don't really die unless you can strike their concept...I suppose they are like Gainen in that regard"-Tomoe took another sip and her expression went slightly more serious
"Speaking of the latter, I'm afraid I'm not sure how well we are doing keeping those things in check, the JHWAB hasn't exactly been transparent about them, here's hoping that's about to change"
Daniel chuckled when he noticed Eve's enthusiasm
"Oh they are beyond cool, let me tell you this, they were definitely not man made. Ever been to Yucatan? they say the meteorite that killed the dinosaurs landed near there, there's even a big ass crater underwater an all that. well, whatever landed there, was more than just a rock, cause I swear the mech I pilot is a T-Rex, much larger than what the animal would have been when it was alive anyway, the thing is mostly some sort of space alloy, but you can totally see bones of the animal inside the cabin"
Daniel finished yet another drink and finally told the bartender to send him the check
"That's not even the best part about it, we found 5 of those things, and they fucking combine! make an even bigger mech, I'm not exactly a dino nerd, so no idea on what they all are, but I can tell you, they all look pretty badass"
The Ashen Director finally stood up and dusted off his clothes.
"Well, I think it's time for me to go to my room and try to get at least an hour of sleep. teleporting charms make me feel worse than Jet lag, It's been a pleasure meeting ya Eve, If you ever decide to visit mexico, I might get to show ya what those things are all about"
Daniel said as he strolled out of the bar and requested to be guided to his room.
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Post by HungryHunter on May 6, 2021 2:48:06 GMT
Eve just grew more and more awed as Daniel explained the mechs he had piloted. “You’re making this up. No way there’s something that cool out there.” She teased, her only way of hiding just how enthralled she was. “My kid sister would probably know them. Hell, I think she’s met some actual dinosaurs in those Ruin things she explores. Maybe I’ll bring her?” Again she was defusing things, deflecting tension. When he said he was leaving, she had to hide a new emotion- disappointment. “You need sleep, old man? Well alright, enjoy your nap.” She waved him off and sighed. Well now she was bored. She looked around for something else of interest and who did she see but her old rival Aria. Well what was she up to? She seemed busy, so Eve didn’t walk over, but she waited to be noticed so that she could wave at the very least.
After scanning to her satisfaction, Melea sighed. It was honestly sloppy of them. She would definitely have these rooms bugged. Manifesting her paranoia, she created a green lock and placed it on the door. She sat on her bed, taking out her various papers. No sense in wasting time. She had plenty to do. The new energy projects were coming along quicker than anticipated.
“Oh, scion of the Musashi. Well, perhaps we can see both of them?” A few more specks came off of his body, flitting about to search different directions. He let one lead him to the scent of alcohol and smiled when he entered the bar. “Hm. Seems that they are busy. What do you think, Mr. Morgan? Would you like to interrupt them?” He asked, but he didn’t hesitate. A butterfly so blue it looked like it was made of stained glass landed on the rim of Aria’s drink to draw her attention, and he simply took a seat a few down and waited for either of them to invite him into the conversation.
There were three minds to the situation going on in the lockers. Marceline wasn’t getting involved no matter what. Screw that. If Sid was stupid enough to bring something illegal here, he could go down on his own. Dranten wanted to see a resolution to the situation, but he wasn’t sure how to achieve it. Social situations were never what he was best at. Third, Ava was panicking and confused. She couldn’t talk, so she couldn’t help. But the handsome guy who had paid attention to her was in trouble. She wanted to help! All she could do was make tiny trumpet honks, scuttling in place as she tried to think of something useful to do. She was worthless! Worthless when she was needed! Tears gathered at the corner of her eyes as she scurried pointlessly back and forth.
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Post by Vapovile on May 14, 2021 9:36:32 GMT
The ease by which Tomoe described facing down two godly beings surprised Aria, but she had dealt with plenty of gods as HWIC president. Warrior clans such as the Musashi valued strength over all else, so it made sense that their leader was the most powerful. But Aria had a different skillset; managing global relations. Even the HWIC didn’t have the resources for a global presence, so much of their influence was through soft power and mutual assistance.
When Tomoe brought up the Shindo situation, Aria considered her response as she took a drink of her wine. “I am not surprised that’s an issue. They are an old organization that distrusts working with other organizations. I’m sure you’ve noticed Roshi’s attitude in particular.” Aria’s eyes flicked over to where he had stood when greeting her, then back to Tomoe.
“But I trust you’d have better luck negotiating with them than I. The HWIC is always willing to provide resources, of course. Especially after this pleasant chat.” Aria was about to take another sip of her drink when a strange butterfly landed on top. She stared at it for several seconds. On cue, Ophiochus sat down at the bar nearby. Her eyes narrowed slightly. This was obviously him wanting to draw attention to himself. But Aria could think of about a dozen other things she’d rather do than talk to a Flipside representative.
Taking out her cell phone, Aria tapped a message facing away from the butterfly.
>Flipside. Be careful, and don’t trust him.
Swiftly turning the phone so Tomoe could see before putting it back into her pocket, Aria raised her glass toward the Flipside representative.
“Good afternoon, Ophiochus. Would you like to join us with your drink?” She asked. It was clear he wanted to talk, and the HWIC wanted to stay on good terms with the technology giant. But she distrusted their motivations, especially of the management.
---
Sid sighed and scratched the back of his head when Norio questioned him further. “I told ya dude, I found it. Just hanging out on a beach, this thing comes flying out of nowhere, it looked cool, I picked it up. Didn’t think too much about it, really.” Sid said casually. He always had a hard time taking authority seriously, so that helped with this lie. He didn’t want to give up the medal though...but right now there wasn’t much he could do.
Hearing the tiny trumpet honks, Sid looked over at the girl he had tried to talk to earlier. Why wasn’t she saying anything, only making those noises? Was she mute? Sid gave a friendly smile and patted Ava’s shoulder.
“It’s alright, I got this. Sorry this kinda interrupted us. You should tell me your name after all this, if you want.” Sid nodded and turned back to Norio. This was all turning into a real drag.
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Post by TimePuppy on May 17, 2021 22:15:57 GMT
"I'll leave that to you. I'm not in the mood to socialize. I'll just watch over you from nearby." He patted Ophiochus's breast pocket, leaving a solid dark substance inside it. He was confident in his ability to rush to his boss's side against most people, but he wasn't sure just how powerful the god slayer herself is. Better not risk it.
While Ophiochus went over to char, Morgan found a seat from which he could observe the whole bar while still being as close to him as possible. Not being one to drink, he riffled through his coat until he found a small book and started reading that, making sure to keep one eye on the organization leaders as he did so. Tomoe in particular would feel the analytical gaze behind his mask measuring her up. --- Remilia was completely ignored. She couldn't complain though. Seeing the strange magical detection circle and his serious tone made it clear this was definitely something dangerous. She'd never heard of anything Geinen before and she had a strong urge to analyze its code, but she already put her quantum computer into the portal. Back to the matter at hand though, she wasn't very useful to Sid. She really didn't know enough to actually defend him. But there was someone she thought she could be helpful for though. Probably at least.
She tapped Ava on the shoulder. "Are you okay?" She signed. It was ASL, the only sign language she knew. She learned it for a friend and didn't expect to need it in the hidden world with all their magic and technology. She wasn't sure if the scarfed girl knew any sign language to be fair, especially since she didn't seem deaf, but perhaps she could help her communicate if she did.
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