Shadowlord

A mission for Rounin

Chapter 1

E.S.A.S. Main Head Quarters
Okinawa, Japan
12:00 A.M.

         An icy wind blew from the northwest breathing its icy breath against Rounin's face as he gazed out at the building that was the E.S.A.S. Main headquarters. He traversed the winding pathway, his black combat boots thudding against the stone as he made his way to the towering structure.
         He came upon the black oak double doors And pushed through with a gloved hand. He made his way inside the great hall. Cluttered voices filled the vicinity as he made his way to the Conference Room. He came upon a solid black door with a shadow wraith etched into the top. It was here the lords of Japan gathered to discuss critical missions and reviews. He felt their gazes upon him as soon as he entered the room. The fiercest gaze was that of Lord Roku Sakura. President and founder of E.S.A.S. and Lord of Yokosuka. Ice blue pupils scanned the peramiter, taking in the populace of the vicinity from beneath Rounin's black hood. "I see you were able to make it tonight, Rounin."
         Rounin made his way to his respective chair and sat down, putting his boots up on the table as he leaned back in his chair. Roku looked at him for a moment but made no comment. "Well, you said it was urgent Roku." Came Rounin's reply. The two of them had known each other since they were kids and Rounin was the organizations biggest asset. "I have a mission for you Rounin. I don't think it'll be too difficult so I know you'll be able to handle it." Roku said as he puffed from a cigar. "If it's that easy why don't you get one of them damned goons to go?" Rounin asked though his tone was much harsher than he had intended it to be. Roku had ignored the outburst but nonetheless answered the question. "Because she specifically asked for you Rounin." Rounin sat back once more and he too placed a cigar between his lips and lit it. He took a long drag and, removing the cigar from his lips, exhaled the smoke in large grey rings. "Where am I supposed to meet 'er at?" He asked calmly and took another drag from his cigar at the exact moment Roku had. "Mr. Yakimaru's Noodle Shop." Roku said and puffed at his cigar again.
         "You gotta be kidding me. This sounds more like a blind date than a sensitive mission." Rounin's reply didn't surprise Roku, however. Instead he leaned back puffing at his cigar and blowing out smoke rings as he thought for a moment. "Do you ever take things seriously, Rounin?" Aked Roku, slightly disconcerted. Rounin took another hefty puff from his cigar. "Should I?" He asked. Roku shook his head, tsking as he did so. "I have nothinig further for you Rounin. Get some rest and think it over. If you take this mission maybe you'll grow up some." Rounin left the room, Roku's last words lingering still in his mind. Maybe you'll grow up some. He said. It wasn't long before he was sitting on his bed in his suite trying to piece everything together. Why me? Who is this woman and how did she even know my name? According to the government we don't exist but how did she find me? The thought rolled through his mind over and over again. It had been several hours before slumber claimed him.