A Mercenary's Journey

[Jack Sarratt]

A man walked along the worn path in the woods. The man was covered from shoulder to legs in black leather armor with bronze plaques sewed on. He had a pair of kusarigama on his back. His head was uncovered, but there was a bandage running over his mouth and across his right eye. His left sleeve was cut short and there was no glove on his left hand, only his right. He had short brown hair that was almost black, and his visible eye was chocolate brown. He had on black leather boots and a dagger was strapped to the left one. He stood about six feet tall and seemed unaffected by his weapon and armor weight. Few people walked this road, but those who did seemed not to notice him. Or if they did, they were too scared to be near him.

He sighed. What do I do now? I have been trained to hunt all manner of creatures, but I haven't found any work. I suppose being a mercenary would get me the needed funds, but I need to find a team.

The man called Rebunanto shook his head and walked on, oblivious to the world around him.

[Mr_D]

A lone figure appeared on the road ahead, walking towards Rebunanto at a leisurely pace. He wore a black hakama and men's kimono and his hair was tied loosely in a long ponytail. A katana was thrust through his obi and he walked with a confident, care free stride.

[Jack Sarratt]

Rebunanto walked on. He seemed to not notice the stranger, but he tensed slightly, ready to fight or flee if necessary.

[Mr_D]

"Excuse me." Ryu stopped and asked the passing traveller. "Would you happen to know where the next town is around here? I appear to have lost my way."

[Jack Sarratt]

Rebunanto answered him. "Truthfully, sir, I haven't the slightest idea. Towns and cities mean little to me." He looked at this man. "Sir, could I ask you what business you have there?"

[Mr_D]

"Nothing much, just a down and out ronin looking for work." Ryu answered.

[Jack Sarratt]

Well, well. "Sir, I believe we have the same goal. I, too, am in need of work."

[Mr_D]

"So what do you propose?"

[Jack Sarratt]

"Well, I am seeking work as a warrior, a shinobi, if you will. And I believe you seek professional work as well. So let us aid each other. At least until we find work. Agreed?"

Rebunanta extended his left hand.

[Mr_D]

"Agreed." Ryu extended his hand out in reply and the two shook.

[Jack Sarratt]

As Rebunanta shook hands with the man, he sent a small burst of chakra into the man's palm. Not enough to be noticed or to hurt, but to discern the man's truthfulness. I can't afford another mishap.

"So, what is your name. I am Rebunanta, sometime assassin and mercenary."

[Mr_D]

"Kojiro Ryu, sword for hire." Ryu replied. "Here's a tip though. It'd be best not to go around introducing yourself as an assassin. It's not the most respected of trades."