within every dewdrop is struggle

Hattori took a moment to inspect the blade, a hairpin but sharp and pointed. Enough to kill. He had seen craftsmanship like this before, intricate and sleek, making him wonder just what clan she had hailed from. Iga did not claim ownership of the shinobi arts, there were many families and organisations in Nihon, so the possibilities were near endless. Everyone had their secrets, some sharper than most.

His gaze roamed over the slope of her shoulders, brows furrowing in quiet consideration. He indeed wished to test her, though despite what her pride might lead her to think, it was nothing personal. It was difficult for the Kaicho to take words at face value, he needed substance behind them, a reason to believe and trust.

"A tiger has taken up residence in our neighbouring territory." He cast a glance west, knowing the Runestones lay beyond the towering bamboo. Usually mere proximity wouldn't serve to be too much of an issue, he'd be willing to ignore it if it knew its place, but it had gotten brazen as of late. Had gotten too close for comfort. "Come with me to kill it. That shall be your test."