A1:DOWNTHERABBITHOLE

[manabu oda]

On the outskirts of the bordering countries of Kusagakure and Takigakure, Oda sat at the head of a small cliff overlooking a cascade, which began the separation of the countries with a vast, winding river. It was here they decided to meet, under the light of the full moon, which currently was at the jinchūriki's back. Having done away with life in Takigakure to protect it from what he feared may have come, the spot chosen was secluded, away from the life they knew as shinobi and beast. "Ho ho, you're nervous... this is very unlike you~" the bijū resonated from within Oda, a conversation brewing between the two in the man's subconsciousness, away from interaction with the outside world.

"Are you not, Chōmei-dono?" Oda replied, a look of concern growing in his eyes as he took to Chōmei, who was currently picking at his mandibles, inside the gates that had once sealed him. "Worry?" Chōmei, despite his neutral expression, showed concern in his voice. "The world has seen great, terrible evil for generations. WE have been involved in those unpleasant times, yes." He said, referring to bijū and the wars waged over them. "However, like Hagoromo and Uzumaki Naruto there are those of good intentions and understanding. With a heart of... gold~" Chōmei moved from the room, shifting his body into a much smaller form of his original appearance, sitting atop Oda's shoulder for comfort. "There will always be a balance~ Light and dark; good and evil. Ultimately, it is truly up to those with the strongest conviction which decides what will outweigh the other."

Immediately Oda's eyes peered opened, aware of the presence lingering at his back. Breaking his meditative state, he calmly made his way to his feet. With piercing eyes, the gaze of a man with a great conviction reached into the darkness, awaiting the arrival of the One Tails.

[Shu]

Does this form not bother you? Shu asked as he walked through the trees. The location of this meet up was arranged not too long ago, but even then Shu regretted the idea. He had grown accustomed to traveling via Instantaneous and it seemed that both Cezerny and himself had neglected locations with minor villages.

No. I've become quite fond of it, actually, the woman in his head spoke as she reclined in a large pillow. She was growing quite proficient at manipulating the mental space, allowing her imagination to conjure up objects to make the place feel more "homey." It was tough at first, but if it were not for that man the two of us would not have been able to grow closer. So I've grown to like it.

"If you say so," the tanuki said with a shrug as he continued to move forward. While his original purpose for continuing to use the Bijūtsukai was to scorn the man. Using his body to take down the organization that he devoted himself to seemed fairly cathartic. However, in recent days, he had grown used to it. So Rin's approval made him...happy? He shook the thought. It was all irrelevant at the end of the day. This was a time for business. "Sup?" Shu called out boisterously as he approached Oda, a large grin set upon his face. "Long time no see, Chomei." At the back of his mind he prayed that the insect's energy levels were low today. He then decided that it might be best to pay the human some kind of acknowledgement. "I thought you were smaller." His shift in tone would make it evident that he was speaking to the man standing before him.

[manabu oda]

He managed to crack a smile, though purely for stalling, having not recognized the shift in Shukaku's tone was meant distinctly for him. "Being fed vegetables at a very young age has that effect." Oda stared ahead, weary of the large grin tracing across the man's face.

Had he peered into our space? Oda queried, uncertain whether the height remark made was toward him, or the miniature Chōmei who continued to clean his mandibles vicariously at his shoulder inside his consciousness. "Certainly not," the bijū frantically chimed in, "right, Shukaku? Shishishi~" Chōmei quit his grooming, head pivoting awkwardly as he eyed the form his brother had taken. Although many of the bijū did not consider themselves siblings, let alone distant relatives, Chōmei was firm in believing they shared a bond, one he would not forget so carelessly thanks to Hagoromo; the man he considered to be their father. Upon further inspection, Chōmei immediately recognized the change in Shukaku, his normal, carefree self growing suspicious, curious.

The woman was no stranger, no.

In fact, he'd seen her face before, long ago, when she was much younger and he all the wiser.

"Long time no see, nii-san~" Chōmei acknowledged Shukaku, though was more intrigued with the shinobi inside him, or rather his consciousness. "Why might you be in there, hm?"  His eyes gleamed, focused on the woman. "Has nee-san's trickery found new ways to keep himself entertained? You poor thing~"

While stoic, Oda remained puzzled at what they saw. For generations bijū were sealed inside a shinobi, a jinchūriki, but the opposite had never transpired. Not ever. What he saw was unheard of. "Does your mischievousness know no bounds, Shukaku-dono?" Oda asked, revealing his concern for the evident swap in roles. The mutual meeting was growing sour fast, leaving Oda asking questions he was unsure Shukaku would be willing to respond to.

[Shu]

Shu raised an eyebrow and looked at Oda after the insect initially questioned him, seemingly seeking his agreement on the subject of vegetables influencing growth. Already he was having his doubts about this meeting. See, he never had anything against his seven winged sibling. It was kind of hard to do so, actually. Chōmei was always likable, but his energy levels and quirkiness were a little much at times. "Suuuuure," he was all he said in response.

Then the bug and its pet decided they wanted to invade his personal space. Well, technically, it was Rinkōs space now. However, the intrusion was not appreciated. He was the one that did the invading. Not the other way around. 

"Oh," Rinkō said as her guests arrived, setting aside a book she had memorized in her youth. "Hi. I was not expecting this," she admitted as she rose to her feet just as Shu materialized behind the woman, donning his true form once more. As the giant insect focused on her Rinkō stared back with the same look of interest. In all honesty, she never thought that she would get the chance to meet so many other jinchūriki or bijū. At most, she figured that she would meet Kurama, and that was simply due to Naruto's relationship with Gaara. However, because of the Bijūtsukai, Shu was gathering up as many siblings as he could so that they could fight together against a common threat once more.

"Of course it doesn't," Shu stated proudly in response to Oda's question, a smug look upon his sandy features. "What do you think of my technique?" he asked as he leaned forward, his golden eyes watching the man. It was clear that he had his reservations about the situation and Shu was not above poking at them.

Rinkō, on the other hand, was not about to allow him to shoot himself in the foot.

"I require no pity, Chōmei-dono," she said politely as she bowed her head in greeting. "I would be dead were it not for this technique. Admittedly, it is a bit of a role reversal, but I think this might prove to be for the best," Rinkō said as she stepped forward. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Rinkō, apprentice to the late Kazekage, Gaara, and his heir as a jinchūriki of the Ichibi. It is a pleasure to meet you."

"Rin," Shu growled. "You give out information too freely."

"If they are supposed to be our allies then they should know that much," Rinkō said as she glanced up at her partner. "At the very least."

[manabu oda]

"Please, forgive the intrusion," Oda bowed in apology while Chōmei remained suspended midair as the woman introduced herself. It was rare to see both bijū and jinchūriki interacting so nonchalantly, which only brought joy to the Nanabi.

"If what Rinkō-dono says is true, than your mischief is thwarted only by the bond you two share." Oda commented, preferring to leave the subject alone at that. Chōmei told tales of Shukaku's old-self; the incoherent, rampaging lunatic that at one point enjoyed killing and threatening those who he believed were beneath him. It was only until meeting Gaara that the Tanuki began to change, yet the years separated from his brethren left Chōmei unaware of how strong a bond he'd have upon Gaara's passing, leaving only the Nanabi's assumptions to how he'd react to his death. It appeared that both Shukaku and Rinkō shared a bond similar to Oda and himself, albeit unique in situation.

"Well~ I suppose thanks is in order for saving Kazekage Gaara's apprentice, hn? You sure have gotten soft in your years, nii-san~" Chōmei teased, deciding to transform himself into the same form he'd taken in Oda's consciousness. Casually landing atop the woman's shoulder, his tails fluttered before his neck craned, his attention toward Shukaku.

"Have you heard from Son Gokū?" the Nanabi flew from Rinkō's shoulder, landing atop Shukaku's nose, appearing to glare into the eyes of his brother despite its total lack of facial expression.

Oda, who'd remained relatively out of the conversation, decided to step in after Chōmei's antics, despite knowing how serious he was with the question in regards to the Yonbi. "Have you found anything of note regarding those hunting us, Shukaku-dono?" He paused, unsure how to continue. "I vow that the information you share here will be kept between us and us alone. No one is capable of piercing this plane." He justified it further. "Even if one could, I would not break so easily."

[Shu]

Shu's expression hardened as Chomei and his pet shared their opinions on his use of that Tanukitsuki. All that stuff about caring and bonds and all that mess was annoying to talk about. True as they might be, he was still too proud to allow them to be vocalized without some protest. "Do not mistake favoritism for me growing soft," the tanuki growled, glaring at his brother's minuscule form. Rinkō remained unphased by the Nanabi flying around her face. This was too rare of an opportunity to examine another tailed beast. Her golden eyes scanned over every inch of Chōmen before he flew onto of Shu's nose. "I haven't heard from the so called sage yet," Shu admitted. "My people heard he got loose so I'll find him soon enough."

Upon hearing Oda's question the tanuki simply glanced down at the man, but remained silent.

"Shu-san has been very proactive when it comes to the Bijūtsukai. The human form he takes is one of their members that he killed," Rinkō stated as she gave Oda the once over. Strong, capable, and a strong bond with the bijū. He would make for a great addition to the rag-tag team Shu was putting together. Especially since Sio was still undergoing training. "Unfortunately, that is all the free information that I can give you. This is a crucial stage in the operation, you see."

"The war is starting soon," Shu said simply.

"Precisely. We need to know if we can count on your full support before we can share any more information."

[manabu oda]

"Well then--"

"Uzumaki Naruto," Oda interrupted Chōmei, a rarity considering their relationship. Chōmei merely fluttered into the air, aware of what his close friend was referring to. An ominous air crept through the valley they stood on, the flow of the water rushing just a hint more, the once calm wind howling as it blew over and between the treeline, as if the earth itself stood tall and proud to hear such a name uttered, the name of its savior. To Oda, Naruto's ideals and dedication for the world he envisioned were held close to heart. He idolized the man, the legend, and thought the world of him.

"What does this name mean to you, Shukaku-dono?" Oda stood firm, a hardened gaze rising to meet that of the bijū.

As a child, Chōmei revealed to Oda the truth behind the Fourth Great Shinobi War, and how former foes banded together as allies with the intent on creating a new world alongside Naruto, to defeat the greatest of evils in order to see a better today. While young, the stories of Naruto's adventures were captivated by his rival and pupil, Sarutobi Konohamaru, which only fueled Oda to grow stronger and reach for the stars. Well into adulthood, the man realized the true meaning behind each individual story told to him by his good friend; the impossible is possible.

Naruto bridged an endless amount of possibilities, which showcased in how he'd united the world in hopes of a better tomorrow. Again, the world would be tested, and again this man was searching for an answer, hopeful that he too could accomplish the dream Naruto fought endlessly for, with their help. For now, Oda merely wanted to consider exactly what they, or more importantly, what Shukaku was fighting for.

[Shu]

Shu slowly raised an eyebrow at Oda's question. From his perspective it seemed like such a meaningless query, but the man's hardened expression showed the tanuki that it was at least important to him. "What does that name mean to me?" he asked, both as the beast in the mental plane and the man standing before Oda in reality. He laughed. Not to mock the name of Uzumaki Naruto, but at the situation. Nobody had ever questioned what he thought of the late Hokage, not even Gaara, and he certainly never brought it up. To be honest, he was not even sure he knew how to answer that question.

Rinkō looked up at the tanuki as he seemed to mull the question over. She did not feel the need to tell him to handle the situation delicately. By living hand in hand with Gaara he would know that this was a very crucial moment, and could make or break this alliance. Especially since he needed a jinchūriki of Oda's level. But above all else, she was curious to hear his response about the man the world idolized.

"What is there to say about the Fox's old brat? He was an idealistic and overly naive idiot. His stupidity only rivaled by Kurama's incompetence. I have only encountered one human more annoying than that blond bastard," he paused for a moment. "Must be something in the genes since he is also an Uzumaki." Shaking off that thought he realized he was veering off topic. "Nevertheless, he was a man that Gaara revered the most. His actions in the last war and everything prior have shown him to be an ally to the Bijū. As far as humans go," the tanuki stated with a shrug. "He was alright."

[manabu oda]

The tanuki's amusement over the question only served to strengthen Oda's resolve, his gaze hardening toward the disrespect he believed Shukaku was showing. Now a bystander, Chōmei could do nothing but watch as pupil and brother traded words, intrigued at the very least to see just how Shukaku viewed the Child of Prophecy. Nearing the end of his monologue, Oda's features softened as the bijū continued, leaving the man satisfied with the answer given. Not over the top and certainly not putting the late Naruto on a pedestal above that of his own, Oda's acceptance was answered in full in the form of a bow in Shukaku's direction. "We will join you." He said, returning to face the two he now called allies.

"Four heads are better than two, mhm~" Chōmei chimed in, returning to Oda's shoulder as he gazed at both his brother and Rinkō. "There is little time to waste," the Nanabi's tails fluttered, his mandibles continuing to groom. "We are to journey deep into Hi no Kuni in order to further Oda's training in preparation for the coming war." Chōmei said, his words meant to reveal their next course of action as well as the name of the very man who stood before them, who'd somehow forgotten his manners...


Oda's stern attitude unraveled, embarrassed by his lack of proper social conduct. "I..."

Oda bowed his head once more in apology. "Please, forgive my poor manners," he paused, cursing himself for allowing to get caught up in the moment. "Naruto sacrificed everything to protect both people and bijū alike." He raised his head, full of conviction. "A path I, Manabu Oda, have accepted."

[Shu]

The shift in Oda's expression told Shu that he seemingly passed the man's test. He fought the urge to roll his eyes. Yet another Uzumaki fanboy. Nevertheless, both the insect and the man had fully agreed to aide in his cause. While Chōmei possessed the ability to summon him this would be the first sign of a proper partnership. When Oda finally got around to introducing himself Rinkō let out an amused chuckle at his embarrassment.

"I have a better idea," Shu said in reference to them going to Hi no Kuni. "Come with me. I do not intend to attack the Bijūtsukai just yet, but your skills can still be of use." He walked towards Oda, looking him over. For a shinobi he seemed seemed of appropriate stock; strong, capable enough of holding Chōmei. At the very least, he had a nice mindset. "Kurama's host could use some pointers. The child is woefully disappointing."

[manabu oda]

"Very well, Shukaku-dono." He nodded, realizing that his strength alone would likely fail in defeating the Bijūtsukai if those alongside him were not up to par. Kurama was arguably the strongest of the nine bijū and both he and his vessel would be needed in such a great war. "I will mentor his host to the best of my ability. Lead the way."

Something new dawned on Oda, with the realization that he would be taking on his very first student. He was excited, though hid it voluntarily. All his life he'd looked to Chōmei for guidance and teaching, yet now he felt as if the mantle of teacher and mentor had begun its passing. If Oda could guide Kurama's host onto the path of the great Uzumaki Naruto, then they had a chance.

[Shu]

Shu smirked when Oda asked for him to lead the way. He enjoyed being able to flaunt his new powers, especially in front of his brethren, who knew more than most about his capabilities. Walking up to the man he slapped a hand on his shoulder. "Don't blink," was all the warning he would offer the nukenin before making the one handed seal, and in a puff of smoke they were gone.