Private Friends, Enemies, & Frenemies: What Are We?

[Raizo]

The large octagonal silver structure would stand before them, and it would have been one they would have noticed well before reaching. Looking up, he would remember his first time seeing it as a visitor and remember the awe he felt from the craftsmanship. When he came to Suna in his quest to talk to the Steward of the village, he never had seen such a structure before because he had never been to a shinobi village before. So the awe he felt might not be the same impression of his two guests. Perhaps Kumogakure no Sato had a similar structure that would cause them to default to a compare-and-contrast mindset? Maybe Kumo was full of several structures much more impressive than this? Ultimately, it wouldn't matter. The appearance of the building was one thing, but the person who worked on it and the actual composition of the building, from each rivet, board, and chunk of metal was crafted, either directly or through the supervision, of a master crafter; Takahashi Sousuke. The Takahashi was a revered lineage of crafters, this tower was just a single piece of their art.

They would enter the building and walk past the lavishness of the lobby, past the busybodies of those who staffed this portion of the tower, and would make their way to the elevator. Pressing a button, the Kazekage would then turn to his two guests. The 6'1" leader of the village would once more smile at his quiet company.

"I'm not sure I entirely get what it is you are doing, besides the obvious that you both want to keep yourselves concealed. I assumed it was to protect yourselves, being on high alert after being attacked, but it could also be that you are both nefarious and in need of hiding your identities. Maybe you aren't diplomats, maybe you are assassins and I played right into your hands."

There would be a ding from the elevator as the doors would pull apart and welcome the party to enter it.

"If that happens to be the case, I have only one request... let us take it outside. I hate to bother the staff and create a mess."

Upon saying that he would enter the elevator and motion for the two to follow him. He would chuckle a bit to help break any tension that might have been there.

"Honestly, while I am sure you are both dangerous due to your line of work, I don't get the impression you came here with hostility. You came here because of hostility, and I hope I can help provide you some sense of easement for that."

His closing remark would shift to a much more sullen tone, one that would be different than the tone he had carried through most of his interaction with the two of them so far. He understood that there was probably a swirling mess of emotions raging within them, within their village. If providing them a target to cast aside the guilt, remorse, frustration, and rage would allow them to start to heal, then he wanted to provide that.

Besides, he asked for this...

His fist would clench as he would start to think of the target he would give them. The anger he felt towards the one who had rejected his hospitality, ridiculed him, and chose to live as a "monster".

Akkuma...

The elevator would continue to gently carry its passengers up through the levels of the tower.

OOC: Continuation thread with Yuna and Miro!

 

[Chigokai Yuna]

It would be Yuna's first time ever going to a big political landmark, and it's to a whole other country that she's never been to before. Her father had told her that he's been to a lot of political places though he has never been to Sand.

As the man named Raizo spoke, it became apparent that he is the Kazekage. He had explained his suspicions of them being assassin's, which Yuna only shook her head. The alliance may have been temporarily cut with Sand for the time being, but they have no reason to try and have beef with the Kazekage. She only hopes that this interaction at the Kazekage tower will help both Cloud and Sand with this talk that they will be having.

(Topic entered)
(Sorry for short post)

 

[Kagami Miro]

The time spent outside of the comfortable gates of Kumogakure was eye opening. From the beautiful artworks nature carefully crafted to perfection to the wholly different personalities in leadership of shinobi. The Hokage’s display of emotion to her hung in the forefront of her mind. Stand-offish and cold. While the Kazekage was charismatic and serious when needed but awfully open and trustworthy. The duo could have been assassins set out to murder the man. Yet his intuition, and their ability to remain neutral, had been spot on. Mirō had come to the conclusion that he’d be a powerful ally even before they entered the large building.

Even as he spoke his words felt honest to her. She respected the fact he’d take any fight outside in order to keep the peace. To make sure his city was not destroyed in battle. One of her own mantras she followed with her heart. "Honestly, while I am sure you are both dangerous due to your line of work, I don't get the impression you came here with hostility. You came here because of hostility, and I hope I can help provide you some sense of easement for that." Mirō’s hues cut over to inspect the Kazekage. What she had come to Suna for had been truly about these so-called ‘Ancients of Sand.’ She wanted answers and ultimately heads on spikes. “Perhaps we can chat and end up with favorable outcomes for us and our nations.” Mirō said. The belief that the Ancients of Sand had close ties to Sunagakure itself seemed to slip into the cracks. The Kages' boisterous guffaw made it clearer that they too, were in the midst of dealing with these assholes.

Her red hues peered over at Yuna then back at the Kazekage. The clenched fist spoke of an unknown weight on his shoulders. “The hospitality you have shown towards us masked strangers seems suspicious in its own. The Hokage wouldn’t even give us the time of day.” She sighed, allowing a gentle shrug to roll out. “The gesture is welcome but you should see why I bring it up. The way Sand does things around here is foreign to what I’ve grown accustomed to… It’s pleasant... and we thank you greatly. Unfortunately…” She let her words hang in the air. She had a hunch at what just might be on the Kages mind. “Before we reached the gates we were stopped by a lone man. He didn’t hide his bloodlust at all. If not for my comrades' voice we may have spilled blood in these foreign sands.” Hinting at the man with the plague mask the ding of the elevator cut the tension that lingered in the elevator. The door slid open to allow the party to leave, her words hopefully in the mind of the Kazekage. There was no reason to trust two masked strangers. Yet their goals had begun to align together. Would the Kazekage hear them out? “We thought they belonged to Sand. Yet their presence said otherwise.”​

[Topic Entered]
[ANBU Mask: On]
[Identity: Concealed]

 

[Raizo]

The smaller one is once more the vocal of the duo while the taller one has yet to make a substantial peep. The taller one was the primary writer, however, and the smaller one made the call on not giving me that last note. It seems still 50/50 on which of them is the leader of the pairing, the higher ranking one. Maybe that isn't right, maybe more like 60/40 in favor of the smaller one.

The "Speaker" would begin talking, explaining some things while also remarking on others. It would bring a smile to his face to hear that they viewed his courtesy favorably, and it was a slight bit reassuring that they didn't believe it to be some act. While he had a malicious bone in his body and wasn't shy of using deceit, a common tool of those in his previous line of work and within the world these shinobi all resided within, he was also a very honest person. This was a trait of his that brought him more success than failures in his life, but one that still opened the door for those failures. Some more painful than others.

Its unsurprising Leaf gave that impression, based on the note I received from this Hokage they seemed keener on showing off how big their villagehood was than engaging in any real conversation. Maybe I let my anger at that note sway my approach with those who actually appeared. Is that a bad approach, should I adjust that in the future?

As the doors opened, he would begin to move forward once more motioning for the masked guest to follow him.

"I understand you feeling suspicious, and I am very interested in getting to dig a bit deeper into this individual you met in the desert if you'd be so kind as to oblige that request."

They don't have to, they hold cards in this setting, which they aren't oblivious to since the Speaker made reference to still a lingering hesitancy to trust not just me but our village.

Approaching a large door at the end of the hallway on this floor, the 10th floor, they would come into view of a pink-haired female. She would bow to the Kazekage on his guests.

"This is Yukina, she is my attendant for as long as I can remember. She and I ventured to this village together to forge a relationship with the people of this village in a time of need and ended up getting repaid with a kindness we could have never imagined. Typically, I would have her join us in these types of conversations..."

Yukina's eyebrow would raise at this.

"...but for this conversation, at least for a portion of it, I would appreciate you staying out here, Yu."

Upon saying this he would motion at the two masked individuals behind him and then sort of give Yukina a look, an expression as if trying to say something.

This man is a moron... but I assume he is worried that they may not be honest with someone else present who they don't know. They don't know him either, but he has given them a gesture of kindness... so this is just another step in securing their trust. Fine, but radio ahead next time.

"Of course, Lord Raizo." she would say with a slight bow. "Should you or our guest need anything, let me know. I will maintain that the floor remains quiet and private for you."

And with that, she would open the door for Raizo and his guests. The Kazekage would whisper walking past Yukina "thank you" as she would sigh in resignation that he was going to get his way no matter what.

Upon entering the room, he would take off his coat and place it upon a hook bolted to the wall. Then, making his way over to a large glass-encased cabinet, he would motion for them to take a seat at two chairs that were already positioned around a small table.

"Drink preference; water is always a great choice, hard to beat staying hydrated. I don't know your regional laws, your ages, or your preferences, but since this is a business meeting I have been told that alcohol can serve as a suitable drink selection as well... hmm, might still have some of this one sweet concoction that Yu makes, it's kind of a specialty drink from our clan, that uses fruits not grown in this portion of Wind Country... it's a sweet drink, no alcohol, but I find it refreshing. If you'd prefer anything else let me know and if I don't have it, I will get Yu to fetch it!"

Procuring three glasses, he would place two down, waiting for a response from either of the two of them, that would remind him--"Oh, and please, let me know if your partner writes down their order"--he would chuckle, not meaning to be mean, but he still found it funny all the same. Pouring himself a glass of a liquid that seemed to fluctuate between a dark amber and a light gold, he would draw the glass to his lips and take a sip.

"This is my first time hosting diplomats, so thank you for indulging me. Now, this welcome party you met before reaching our gates... did this individual give a name? More so, did he seem almost proud to give you his name, like he was advertising his presence for some odd reason?"

His tone would grow quieter and more serious with each question relating to the person they had encountered. Would his hunch be right? Did he already know the name of their rude welcome to the country? Moments would decide that.

OOC: Yukina is my NPC, who has now officially entered the chat... err, the thread.

 

[Chigokai Yuna]

Yuna was more or less now acting like the quiet bodyguard as she would observe everything to make sure that there were no prying eyes are eavesdropping ears. With her archsage powers, it surely helped her notice a change in energy throughout the whole area if someone were to be there. Once the elevator doors had opened, and they walked, the young ANBU had seen the disturbance in energy of the environment that was accompanied by a pink haired girl that Raizo had called Yukina.

When he had said that she has a lot of his trust to talk about politics and diplomatic but to not be present for at least part of their conversations speaks volumes. Is it because he fears for her safety of what they will talk about, or rather who? Or would it be possible that she might accidentally spill vital information that they are onto Akkuma, if he is part of all of this.

As they walked in, there were two chairs that the Kazekage motioned to and asked if they wanted one of three drinks. Inside of her mind, Yuna thought over the idea of getting some alcohol, she can only imagine how her father would react to her drinking some alcohol, but she pushed the thought out of her mind. She grabbed her notepad and wrote down.

Spoiler

Water, no ice. With straw.

Even though shown courtesy, Yuna will not take a whole lot of chances, she knows that it would be easy to have ice in a drink poisoned, and that it would be easier to detect poison in the drink than in the ice itself. As they waited for their drinks, Raizo would speak once more, and went straight down to business. He wanted to know who had intercepted them in the outer Wind Country area. Yuna would then respond by tapping Mirō to get her attention, she knows that she has Raizo's attention already, then she tapped her ears and did the hush finger pose over where her mouth would be since it is coved by her mask. This would be to make sure they are aware of possibility of anyone having the capability to eavesdrop. Even though she hasn't seen, hear, or even sensed anything, she won't take any chances. She wrote on her notepad once more.

Spoiler

He did seem very proud of his presence. Even so, his presence was known to us before he even showed his physical self. A dark aura that seems to want to take away the life essence of all those around him. He seems well informed, yet deceitful. He introduced us as Miroku Akkuma.

She had given a brief description of Akkuma before giving the name, the validate and confirm her suspicions. If the Kazekage were to recognize the description before the name, then it would also help confirm how Akkuma operates. She would push the note towards Raizo for him to read it.

 

[Kagami Miro]

The Kazekage continued to lend an ear towards the masked duo. Even to the point of holding an interest in the individual they had encountered in the desert. Before they had made it into the private office they were introduced to Yukina. A loyalist and friend to the Kage such as her own captains. Soon after they were escorted into the Kazekage’s office. In an instant Yuna would begin to check and measure their surroundings. An instinctive trait that had been hammered into her mind from her training and most likely her father. Mirō remained on alert in case a few elite ninja got past Yuna’s sensory jutsu. Just because they outnumbered the Kazekage and had a common enemy did not mean they had the upper hand. Their land, their prowess and they were a long way from home.

Then he offered the goods. Water. The Sennin refrained from licking her lips at the thought of it. She couldn’t anyway, they were dry already and it took focus just to talk properly with such a dry throat! Let alone the threat of poisons she held out her palm towards the Kage, refraining from a glass of water.

Once again the Kage spoke up, now asking them of any defining traits or characteristics of the person in question. Side by side the duo stood in front of the Kages desk. Red hues peered over to her subordinate, reading not only her obvious motions but her notebook. Without moving Mirō signed off on the information presented to him. Akkuma's name had probably been escalated to the status of an urban legend. His name itself is as common as the common cold but dangerous if said aloud. Whatever the Kazekage had to say about the individual they’d take in increments. What had happened at Kumogakure’s gates was no mere terrorist attack but an announcement for the future. One that connected Kiko to Akkuma but even Akkuma claimed he hadn’t been one to be used. To further piece together this puzzle she needed answers. Mirō pondered how to increase the trust with the Kage and perhaps onto an alliance.

The Sennin had to think and choose wisely. The questions here held the weight of boulders since each would cost a pretty penny of information. Focused in, she awaited an answer from the Kage. Who knows, incentives were always around the corner.​

 

[Raizo]

It would seem that the one he had deemed within his own thoughts as the Speaker, would once more return to silence. In that case, and since he had his back turned to the duo, he would default to the simplest choice; water. Grabbing some tongs he would pull out two more circular orbs of ice and placed them in a glass.

"A bit of random history for you; I came to this village a few years ago. My family... my father... seemed to be in the backing, or at least dismissive, of the ruling Daimyo and their hatred for this village and its people. Instead of stepping into squash the issue, the Ryuzaki were at best blind to the war and at worst were complicit."

Grabbing an ornamental glass container, he would tip it over and begin pouring the water into each glass.

"The Steward, a position that was granted to a famous clan of this village's history and served as Kage in times of need and as support through all times, had been continuously reaching out to my father, to my clan, for our support. I happened, due to the work of... let's call it luck... upon these correspondences and began my campaign to aid this village. By that point though, there was an underlying animosity between my clan and this village, not because of the Daimyo, but because of the ruling bloodline of this village; the Sunahoshi."

Bringing his glasses back to the table, he would notice the first note from the Silent, what he would refer to the taller of the duo who had yet to say a word. Silent did not want ice.

The Speaker could have at least warned me...

He would smirk and nod, turning back around to pour two more glasses, this time without ice.

"The Sunahoshi and the Ryuzaki are two bloodlines that draw a direct descendent line back to a historical group that we refer to in this country as the First Men. These First Men are the liberators of the people of Wind Country, figures that were mortal yet held the reverence of gods within the borders of this country. At the top of the pile was a man, if calling him just a mere man seemed fair, named Primus. Primus is the central figure, in our pantheon of human deities, he was on the highest pedestal."

He would bring the newly poured, ice-free, glasses back to the duo and place them on the table before his guests. He would then turn, grab himself a chair, and pull it up, but wouldn't sit just yet. First, he needed to grab his drink, and a spare ice water he had already poured. As he came back to his seat he would wrap up this portion of the story.

"A different historical figure, of a much more fantastical background, after the passing of Primus would come to declare a chosen people, essentially a successor. The Sunahoshi were selected, were blessed with the land that would become this village, and would drive a wedge between them and other bloodlines connected to the First Men, the Ryuzaki included. The Sunahoshi would take this chunk of land, establish Sunagakure no Sato, and my clan would venture forth into the country to find our own story."

He would take a seat, take a sip, and then would notice a new note. Reading it, he would mask his reaction for now, before clicking his tongue and getting up. Heading over to his office desk, he would crap a pad of paper and search for a pen of his own.

"The previous Kazekage, Sunahoshi Katsuo, was a great man, was a rightful successor to this village, and was the last of his bloodline. He would disappear fighting a battle with the former Daimyo, and as he was the last of his blood, there would soon be a power gap in this village. The clan of the Stewards, the Takahashi, would do what they always do, and would fill in for the time being. I came here not to lead this village, but to offer in a time of need. Before I knew it, it felt right to take this position. It felt right to start the healing between my clan and these people, and while a part of me still carries the pre-programmed dislike for the Sunahoshi, once I laid my eyes upon what they helped build and lead, it was hard to not find myself awestruck."

Sitting back at the table, he would begin to scribble his own note.

"Sorry for the impromptu history lesson, but it actually will help in another conversation we will have to have in a moment. But first, I'm not a fan of this lack of verbal communication, nor am I the biggest fan of you remaining masked. I understand your rationale of, I assume, being cautious. Yet, it feels like a barrier between us from having meaningful conversations. I will allow it, but I would appreciate it if one of you would at least communicate verbally with me moving forward."

Sliding his own note onto the table he would place his pad down and would return to enjoying his drink.

Spoiler: Raizo's Note

I will play this game until I grow tired of it, please understand that this is me wanting to continue show hospitality but eventually this one-way street will near to widen to a two-way for our parties to start moving forward in a more serious path ahead. With that, for now I will keep certain information confined to these passed notes, but other things I will say out loud. One of you, please engage in a conversation verbally. The name you just passed to me is the one I assumed to be behind this, in some capacity. That said written, I will address more of him verbally. I will talk about Akkuma, "The Ancients of Sand", and any other topics you'd like. If additional come up, please ask or write them down.

"That man, demon, whatever he is came to this land some time ago and has always had the ability to tangle himself up in this village and its people. Previous leaders thought of him as a devious figure that could aid this village in its time of need, the war with the Daimyo, because he was strong. Others viewed him as an outsider that only cared for his own self-interests and wanted nothing to do with him. I originally wanted to pull him out of the muck and mire of his own creation to give him something it seemed he was desperate for; a home."

Taking a sip, he would release a small sigh as his shoulders would shrug.

"He declined my offer, mocking and ridiculing me for even attempting to show such a gesture. He claimed he was going to be the "monster" that this world needed, and that I would learn from underestimating him. I assumed it was only a threat to us, to me, to this village. I could have never imagined he would have the audacity to bring his stench to other countries. He, whether human or demon, is a being of ego. He wants to be the center of attention no matter the costs. He built himself a family of lost souls and orphans, but he merely uses them as shields and weapons. He claims to love them, and many believe that, which makes his influence a hard thing to combat. You don't deal with beings of pure evil, you go against those who genuinely love the demon because they believe he saved them."

He would take another sip.

"He saved them at a cost; their soul. Their lives. Proof of that? Two individuals he claimed to be his sons, assumedly orphans he claimed and twisted, rose up and were believed to have killed him. He, much like a disease, is a festering blight wherever he goes. His only documented blood relation, which again is just our assumption and trust of his word, is his younger brother; who has chosen to take side with this village."

One more sip, finishing off his alcohol.

"He preaches nonsense about family, yet places curses upon those he considers his family and corrupts them to the point they become monsters or heaps of flesh. He waxes on about being a necessary evil, he believes himself to be a king or some savior, but the reality is he is some broken creature lashing out against a cruel hand he had been dealt. Instead of embracing any hands that might help pull him up, he bites wildly like a rabid dog. I should have put him down then and there... his stench crossing into other lands is something I will take as a personal slight against me."

Placing his glass firmly on the table, his face would grow serious.

"No matter what happens between our villages, I will correct my mistake. I will put that wild dog down."

 

[Chigokai Yuna]

The Kazekage had really info dumped them with a lot to think about. Yuna knows that it must be tiresome to communicate through notes, but she can't risk her identity being revealed since Akkuma is in the Country. He had said that he was kicked out of Sand Village, but with what Raizo had said, she can't take any chances that the man just might try and walk right in on them. She'll let Mirō do all the talking, but there was one thing that stuck out to her when Raizo spoke of Akkuma, how he had taken in lost youths and orphans.

She wrote down on a note before giving Mirō the note so that she can be the voice of the conversation.

Spoiler

It might be helpful to know of any mercenaries or missing ninja that either resided here at some point or originally came from here. Mercenaries would be easily swayed by money or other incentives they are looking for. As for Missing ninja, it would be assumed that they have some sort of hidden agenda against their former villages. To know of the names of these mercenaries and missing ninjas would help us find out who might be co-conspirators to Akkuma.

She had hoped that Mirō would know what she was talking about. That and along with whatever else Mirō has on mind.

 

[Kagami Miro]

The Sennin watched Raizo and listened carefully to his words. The historical pretext built a grandiose story in her mind. Clans, Primus, the instinctive human nature to help build up your humanity with a collaboration of all people into a major village. All in order to keep the peace and the people of Suna flourishing. If anything Mirō welcomed the historical background of Sunagakure. This allowed her to compare their nations and seek out the similarities, instead of what divided them. However the timelines felt rushed since the Kazekage stated he had only recently become the Kage of Suna. The man before them had volunteered to be the medicine that mended the severed flesh of the land. No malice or deceit behind his words. Mirō could only take what he spoke of as the truth and her gut instincts never steered it astray.

Then he spoke of the barrier that impeded their trust. She knew that would be a talking point which only forced her lips to curl into a smile. Her duty as the ANBU Sennin came with many responsibilities and risks and unfortunately her father was a gambling addict. Some things are hereditary but the risks were nothing compared to the benefits both Kumogakure and Sunagakure could gain. One had been to seek revenge on those who sought to drive a sword between nations and the other; justice. Justice to those who have fallen down a dark path or even those who have lost their lives due to these insidious acts.

As the Kazekage continued to talk he mentioned the man that stopped them in the desert. She had been right to call out his true darkness that must’ve carried him to do the unspeakable. As the Kage had offered Akkuma a home, he refused to become a ‘monster’. In the desert Mirō prodded at his lack of a true place to call home. Only to be met with menacing threats to her own Dojutsu. The man had become a monster in nature, regardless of birth. If he wanted to be a monster, ‘So be it.’ That silvery voice chimed into her mind. His heinous acts would be dealt with if not by the gods but by the hands of Sunagakure and possibly… Kumo.

The Kazekage sought retribution unto Akkuma and his serious demeanor carried over not only words, but truth. This only made the Sennin’s smile widen to bear her pearly white fangs beneath her golden mask. If the blood of Akkuma would stain the sands those underneath him would surely come out of hiding to seek revenge. They too would meet with shallow graves. “Beautifully said.” Mirō spoke out to the Kage. “Mutts must be hunted and dealt with. A mantra of mine for all those who seek harm to my village and eventually humanity. There’s no saving rabid beasts.” She chuckled. A hand rose up to palm her mask. With a graceful unhinging click her mask would unhook from the bands hidden behind her hair and upright hood. Slowly her mask had been removed to reveal her piercing red hues and horrendous scar that spanned across her cute face. The mask in hand would disintegrate into a gold dust that twirled underneath her cloak and into a sheathe on her lower back.

“I personally would like to assist you on the hunt.” Her toothy grin faded before the reveal yet a honest smile still remained on her lips.”It’s nice to finally meet you, Kazekage. Call me ‘Speaker.’” Her identity had been exposed but names to faces hadn’t been. She continued, “That man and his underlings will pay for their deeds… However…” Her red hues looked left and right to scan the area yet again. “I have a hunch that there is more than just that man.” Mirō said. She spoke of the puppet that attacked Kumo gates and their words. Even Akkuma’s words held some merit. It truly was a full plate he had. To establish war between nations, gather forgotten souls that sought a savior and overthrow villages. Kiko seemed to be a pawn in his hands but were they truly Akkuma’s hands? The stir of conflict between Suna and Kumo had seemed to slow and stop based on the Kage’s words.

“The attack on our gates was not made by that man but another with the same dreadful aura that he possessed. Even they spoke of themselves as a catalyst to provoke war. But, what stops me in my tracks…” She paused momentarily to gather her thoughts, her gaze returning to the Kazekage. “The sudden disappearance and these Ancients of Sand they toted. Even if it was made up to misguide us I still believe there are more faces controlling pieces than what we have discovered.”

Mirō paused again to let the Kazekage absorb her words. The barrier between them had fallen and it was up to him to see if truth coated her voice or not. “Not only did Kumogakure have an attack on their gates but Konoha as well. Yet the rumor shows that Konoha did little to stop the onslaught and even inform us of the attack. Hence the letters.” She hinted at the scroll given to them at the gates. “When we visited their gates they showed us no sympathy or even sadness towards the news. They refrained from engaging and the Hokage seemed… deceitful. Mirō refrained from writing of Leaf entirely, the hesitancy to speak to mask strangers was valid. This only grounded the idea of the nations seeking power, perhaps this was Konoha’s way of obtaining it.

“Rumor has it that one of the Hokage’s eloped with a Missing Nin. These ties seem to string together into the same web. How can our nations be so sure that it’s a single man creating these conflicts.” Her smile widened, “My hunch rests on the fact that these traitors are an organization and not one man.” Her gaze never fell from the Kage’s. “My trust in Suna, as you can see, has been cemented. While the faith in Konoha has remained unchanged. Yet these are simply rumors and ones spoken from the man in the desert too.” She didn’t want to hold his words with such high merit yet the puzzle pieces slowly came together.

Another gaze met with Yuna’s note. Mentally she agreed with the proposal as she looked back towards the Kazekage. “May I ask you, Kazekage, if you have any information on mercenaries or missing ninjas from your village. This knowledge may benefit us in finding out who is conspiring with that man.”
​

[ANBU Mask: Off]
[Identity: Revealed]

 

[Raizo]

He would watch Silent make another note but this time instead of passing it to him, they would pass it to Speaker.

Are they having a conversation amongst themselves... because in this setting I actually prefer the note to whispering, feels so weird to be the odd one out in that. Would make sense, I gave them a lot to chew on. The other possibility, the one I really I hope get, is that this was so Speaker could...

His mind didn't need to wonder much longer, the female would once more begin to speak. He wouldn't even attempt to hide his smirk, his pleasure at this turn of events. He half expected them to play out their quiet game a while longer, and while he wouldn't blame them he still only grow more frustrated. In fact, he was already bracing himself for that frustration that it genuinely caught him off guard to see things work out. His smirk would only grow as the female would speak a language he understood; retribution.

Within a few moments of find himself surprised, he would find himself shocked once more. Speaker's hand would raise up to her mask and grasp it.

Woah, woah, woah... this is not at all how I plotted this out in my mind. That said, I do wonder what she looks like.

The waiting would not take long, as the mask would come off and lowered to show the face of Speaker. Red eyes, a truly bewitching hue, and a scar that engulfed her face.

Those eyes... shit, what is the appropriate plan for courtship with international women?! The clan would probably denounce it and relegate her to nothing more than a second wife, if even that, but with that scar, with his presence about her--I bet she is strong. The clan does embrace open combat to settle any and all disputes. That cheek structure.... and those damned eyes.

The smirk would not be the only thing betraying him, as his eyes would seem to fixate upon the woman before him.

Are those eyes bewitching me?! Would I be opposed to that...

"Of course" he would quickly respond, which was honestly more impressive than anything as his mind felt like it was entirely numb. That said, them hunting together would aid him greatly in better understanding this woman. Then she would give him a name to call her by, and once more he would find himself stunned. The name she happened to choose was the name he made up for her anyways.

By Legatus... is she reading my mind?! Shit, if she is a mind reader... well... shit...

While now trying to only think about sand, and not the woman he was transfixed by, he would continue to struggle to listen to her words, and of course, look into her eyes. It wasn't until she mentioned once more "the Ancients of Sand" that he would find himself shocked back into a place of composure. Letting out a sigh he would reset not only his expression but his demeanor and mind.

I do not need to be intimidated by this woman. I deal with plenty of strong women. She is only a foreigner. A potentially strong worry, with a body forged by combat and hardship, a eyes that could steal my soul and I wouldn't even blink--shit, Raizo, get it together! We are a leader of a village, not a kid with a schoolyard crush... though wouldn't be terrible if she did try to cru--SHIT IF SHE CAN READ MY MIND I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW I AM A GOOD MAN WITH CHARM AND WIT... nice save, jackass.

Once she finished, he would grow a bit tenser.

"We do not have a list of names of Akkuma's associates, as he mostly kept himself the primary figure in the spotlight. He also seemed to do a lot of his transactions outside of the village for obvious reasons. We, a while back, had a student go missing, unsure if dead or if they truly abandoned the village. That said, it was rumored they were a bit odd and might have been a target for Akkuma and his "family"."

His face would grow sour as he knew that wouldn't be the best help for the duo... but then he would snap his fingers and spring up from his seat, making his way over to his desk.

"Actually, there is something I can recall now that happened not too long ago... when we got the notice from Leaf about their attack, and in my mind I was determined it was Akkuma, I began to have anything tangible we had on him and his comings and goings. There, unfortunately, wasn't a lot. The troublesome thing is that while Akkuma has been in our midst, this village has seens its share of disturbances. Since I have been here, the number isn't as high, but while this village was at war with the previous Daimyo it found itself on the receiving end of a lot of unfortunate attacks. Because of this, proper logs for some of the more nefarious who have passed through here are not as concrete. In my mind, if a mercenary has come through our gate process legitimately, then they are probably not deserving to be on your radar as potentials... but there was one instance that was officially logged that we pulled as something of note..."

One of his larger, full face, smirks would unfold across his face as he would bring up a piece of paper from the scattered stack on his desk.

"Oba Jintou reporting under the supervision of Shinku Kaen--oh hey, that guy was one of the first people to meet me when I got to the village (and also recently retired from a leadership position in our ANBU--he would glance back at the pile of papers as one contained a copied version of his 'retirement' note)-- that two individuals, once named Shion Yoshina, Leaf Mercenary, and the other... oh, well I guess this might be good for you two after all... a 'Lord Nobu', noted as being a future husband to the Hokage Lady Asuka, were permitted entry into the village. Of note, Miroku Akkuma was present. End report."

Hmmmm, feels like a small report containing Akkuma within it, but this did happen prior to my falling out with Akkuma, so it isn't too weird to cut the report short. Outside of his inclusion, and the oddness of not having a proper name on this Nobu person... it isn't too far removed from a normal gate entry log.

"Honestly, truly lucky that Kaen was present for this situation, as Jintou was still a shinobi in training by that point--" it would be at this time he would think fondly of the young Oba clansmen who had braved the desert with him and some of his fellow young shinobi. Oba was given a rank up following that moment, which would have meant he would have been no more than a Genin by the time of the logged report. "--had he not been there we might not have gained this much, even though a small note, of information to work on."

He would then turn to Speaker as he would simultaneously begin to write down another note.

"That said, it strengthens your hunch of this being bigger than just Akkuma. Maybe he had gathered others to his cause. I thought he would only secure those who were expendable, but if he has someone on his side who could attack your village's gate and Konoha's... then he apparently has found much stronger 'friends' than I could have ever imagined he might find. But there is good news..."

Somehow, his grin would only grow bigger and wider. He would approach the table, take his seat once more, and slide his second note across the table to the one to Silent.

"Sounds like Akkuma sends his friends to actually do the dirty work... so whether he is the leader or not, really doesn't matter. We know he is here in this country, so while we want to bring them all to justice... maybe we go attempt to cut the snake's head off and let the body sort itself out?"

Spoiler: Raizo's Second Note

So she would like me to call her speaker, what about you? Do you have a preferred name or call sign that would be usable for me? Also, do you need anything else to drink or a snack? Ancients of Sand, I will talk about that next, but keep your questions coming, and if you ever decide to throw caution to the wind like your associate, please feel free to toss off that mask and relax a little.

They would soon learn that he was a persistent man.

 

[Chigokai Yuna]

Yuna quietly and well... silently listened and watched as the interaction between Mirō and Raizo. She had some questions on her mind but focused when Raizo slid her a note. She read it and looked back at Mirō who had surprised her by taking off the mask. Her Sennin had taken up the title Speaker and it would be evident that she will be the voice between the two.

Yuna removed her mask, which was an over fitted kind of mask. Raizo would realize that The silent masked visitor didn't have black hair, but rather luscious purple hair, part of which naturally draped over her right eye. Her eyes in question purple irises, but around it was a tint of red, a mark that she is or rather was in her case, a Chigokai. She then put the mask back on, tucking her hair back into the back of the mask to hide her identity. She then wrote on the notepad once more.

Spoiler

My apologies for putting the mask back on. I have met Akkuma once before not under the guise. I would rather not have my identity shown once more in case he finds himself curious and in the area. As for what you can call me, you can call me Silent. Fitting since I'd rather not hazard my voice being heard by the wrong person.

She slid the note over to Raizo but had her notebook ready as she had processed the other information to think of what else to write.

Spoiler

Well, down to the nitty gritty. This student that had reportedly went missing, do you happen to have a name to match this... odd but targeted individual to be a part of Akkuma's family? Secondly, this Shion and Nobu. During our brief time in Leaf, I think it would prove a waste of time for us to inform them of a potential problem of their own, as we have cut ties with them. But it would also prove useful to them to help preventing potential loss of life or discord if they get a hold of their own problems before their problems end up turning into an Akkuma. As said it is best to snip the problem at the bud, but it is also hard to ignore other problems of other loose ends that can evolve into something. I know this is a lot to ask, but if you have the time or the manpower, help Leaf come to their senses. If not. I will see what I can do to make sure Leaf knows where to aim their attention at.

Or would you rather me help you and my associate with going on an Akkuma hunt?

[Briefly showed identity. Mask is back on roughly fifteen seconds after taking it off]

 

[Kanmuri]

Coming in from this thread: https://ninpocho.com/threads/an-unlikely-proposition.66201/#post-367336
———
A wolfish smirk crawled across the face of the man dressed in white. Although Kanmuri was feeling more than satisfied by his mental assault on the two individuals, he didn’t have the time to enjoy it. With a shake of his head, Kanmuri would readjust his white hoodie and speedily enter the Kazekage tower.

Upon entering the tower, Kanmuri would be surrounded by numerous individuals quickly scurrying around like ants. If Kanmuri wasn’t in such a hurry, he would’ve been consumed by the anxiety-inducing pressure. Every step of every individual was intentional, and their pupils focused on nothing but the goal before them. Whether that was a room down the hall or the reception of mail, these busybodies didn’t waste any energy. They were extremely efficient—almost scarily and coldly so.

Perhaps this was the level of efficiency needed in order to run wordly superpower. Or perhaps it was due to this level of efficiency that Sunagakure was able to set itself apart from the rest of the world.

Fitting in with the workaholics around him, Kanmuri would be filled with tenacity as well, and he’d go up to the first seated, official-looking individual he could find.

“I have time-sensitive information for the Kazekage that I must communicate to him. Please lead me in the right direction.”

The lady he spoke to would blink in shock, and stare at him blankly for a second before scrambling and asking her to follow him. She’d lead him to the elevator, and she’d press the button for the floor she said that she had last seen “Yukina” on before rushing back to her work.

Apparently, Yukina was the Kazekage’s right hand woman, and nothing got to the Kazekage except through her first…at least in the tower.

Ugh, oh Primus! This this ridiculous. Don’t they understand what “time-sensitive” means?

He’d exhale in annoyance.

“Whatever. Better to have her as a lead than not. Lord Raizo must hear this.”

And with that, the elevator ding would alert to Kanmuri that he had arrived at his destination. He wouldn’t even wait for the elevator to open completely and would squeeze through the slightly opened doors before jogging ahead. Before long, he’d see a pink-haired woman standing outside a door and looked at her with a puzzled expression. She looked familiar, and although Kanmuri had come to the Kazekage Tower once before, he was unsure if he’d met her directly.

He’d quickly shake his head as if dismissing a thought and stop running a little bit in front of her. He’d put his hands on his knees and speak with a labored voice.

“Yukina? Are you Yukina? If so, then there’s information that I need to tell Lord Raizo right now. It’s pertaining to the incredibly important meeting that he’s having right now!”

With his words said, the man wearing full winter clothing would stand up and lean against the wall. He’d let out a sigh of relief before opening his eyes in shock.

“Ok, but if you’re actually not Yukina, PLEASE, lead me to her or Lord Raizo as quickly as possible. This is extremely important.”

 

[Kagami Miro]

As her gaze remained on the Kage’s face she had taken notice of his discomfort to her reveal. Did her scar upset him too greatly or was that the work of the Uchiha branding that came with her red spectacles? Nevertheless her smile remained honest and warm. That smile would begin to fade over time. As the news came to her in waves, so did the questions and answers. It seemed as though even Sunagakure had its issue with ninja going rogue because of their feeble dreams and disagreements. Another interesting tidbit of information sickened her core. Leaf had contacted Sunagakure about their attack yet hadn’t sent anyone to Kumogakure’s doorstep. Even the rumors had been true of the Hokage’s will to be wed to a missing ninja. Konoha’s credibility continued to accelerate its worthlessness in her mind. In the end, she had been right to sever the treaty between the two nations.

Mirō was slightly thrown from the Kazekages words. A mention of notable names such as Kaen, and from what she recalled he had his own record within the archives of Kumogakure as well. Wait a minute– Did he say Kaen was the first to meet Raizo when he arrived as a foreigner? Mirō subtly mulled over the thought in her mind. The newly acquired piece of her puzzle would have to wait to be placed as the Kazekage shot up and granted the unmasked Duo a wide cheeky smile. A show of enthusiasm and pearly white teeth, he confirmed her intuition. With another somehow wider smile the Kage sprouted an idea to hunt Akkuma down this instant. As much as she loved his child-like enthusiasm, ‘You think it’s cute huh?’A silvery voice chimed in her mind. ‘--!’ The mission given by the Raikage had to be reported and briefed. No matter how much a thrill of a hunt swayed her she was oath-bound to Kitsune to report back.

“These sands, and my people would know peace once again if the head of that man rolled down the dunes.” Her smile made her cheeks turn a light rose color. “However, I’d like to debrief my superiors as quickly as possible, though it would be an honor to hunt with thee Kazekage.” To watch a powerful ninja in battle once more, let alone one of true values and rooted goals, made her eyes twinkle like the night sky. The Raikage displayed her prowess during their own war and what a spectacle it was. Her red hues caught a glimpse of the note that slid the Yuna. She had much more to ask!

Mirō continued to watch as Yuna took her notepad out for a second time after putting her mask back on. Before Yuna could hand over the note Mirō gently stopped her tracks. With a sharp nail the Sennin drug her finger through her note.

Spoiler

Well, down to the nitty gritty. This student that had reportedly went missing, do you happen to have a name to match this... odd but targeted individual to be a part of Akkuma's family? Secondly, this Shion and Nobu. During our brief time in Leaf, I think it would prove a waste of time for us to inform them of a potential problem of their own, as we have cut ties with them. But it would also prove useful to them to help preventing potential loss of life or discord if they get a hold of their own problems before their problems end up turning into an Akkuma. As said it is best to snip the problem at the bud, but it is also hard to ignore other problems of other loose ends that can evolve into something. I know this is a lot to ask, but if you have the time or the manpower, help Leaf come to their senses. If not. I will see what I can do to make sure Leaf knows where to aim their attention at.

Or would you rather me help you and my associate with going on an Akkuma hunt?

The time to benefit Leaf had passed. They had displayed their intent by keeping the information about the attack on the gates to themselves and Suna but not Kumo. The Hokage eloped with a treasonous ninja and began to deal with the likes of Akkuma. Mirō had made up her mind about Konoha.

Her nail continued to write out a new message for Yuna to view, in the process she had ruined the paper. Subtly, Mirō had made the note unfit to give the Kage. “This will do, Silent.” A threatening glare marked her eyes for less than a second. “I support your decision.” Her voice held a charming tune to it. Just then the room had fallen quiet, and that too, remained brief. The call of an unknown voice bounced off the walls in the hallway. ‘Another guest?’ Naibu chimed again. Her hues turned to face straight away toward the Raikage. Her mask instantly materialized across her face to hide her identity. It was unfortunate for her too, just as she was beginning to ease her guard!

Her attention turned back to the Kage. “Forgive me, Kage. I’ve been on high alert ever since our encounter.” Her smile faded behind the mask. “About the ninja who escaped, did they have a name? Special in any way? That traitor could be a loyal pawn rather than fodder if they were.” She spoke for her partner, intentionally leaving out the parts with Leaf. ​

[Cast Mask Summon Mastered with Initiative]

 

[Raizo]

Once more he would find himself stunned, but not, in the same manner, the duo before he might have been concerning the information provided. Instead, he was stunned by the fact that Silent, the one he believed would never remove her mask, would actually do so! He fought with all his mental strength to keep from making an audible noise or showing too much excitement. The goal was to not come across as the "creepy Kage of Suna who can't be around women". Once more, however, he would find himself taken back by a beauty locked away behind another mask. Silent would reveal herself to have the more traditional facial beauty, but the highlights of her purple hair and purple-hued eyes would be what truly caused his heart to race.

Surely such rare features, much like Speaker's red hues, must mean some potential has been awoken in their veins...

Within his clan, it wasn't uncommon to see odd hair colors, features, or colored eyes, but it was rare for such a thing to happen without a corresponding gift. He assumed that maybe such occurrences were a shared trait between those of the Land of Lightning. If he was more scientific-minded, he might have spent more time pondering such a thought and inquisitive about if such lineage-related factors were simply a common human trait that was shared no matter the region or country. Instead, his thoughts were much less scientific... in a sense;

If they are as strong as they are beautiful, then either would be a suitable candidate for courtship... does Kumogakure no Sato produce only women like this? Should I travel to their land in search of a partner to begin my own branch within the clan. I am the chosen heir, the next Konungr of the Ryuzaki, eventually, I will need to secure my own blood for the sake of the clan.... shit, focus, this is most definitely not the time...

Fate would agree, as Speaker spoke that it would take time, and her and Silent leaving before their hunt could begin.

"Of course, please tell your Kage that I would like to see you, and your partner if a packaged deal, assist me with this hunt."

Gives me time to prepare for my own 'hunt'...

Peering over to the table he would attempt to read the passed note, but would not get the chance as Speaker would quickly begin to scratch through it. She would then refer to her partner as 'Silent'.

My gods and sacred ancestor... she is a mind reader... Ok, listen, no matter what else you've heard within this skull of my, I would like to ask you one thing, and I understand it would be a difficult request to make of you, but would you---

A noise from outside of their room would catch all of their attention as Speaker would quickly call forth her mask and conceal a face he had only gotten to admire for a brief moment. He would click his tongue as he would stand up.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yukina found herself lazily pacing through the hallway of the tenth floor. It wasn't uncommon for her to be sent away during certain meetings, but it never sat well with her. She understood it, especially in this situation with diplomats from another land, but still, it stung.

"I should request that he makes me an ambassador or something to keep from having to sit around outside. What a load of horse sh--"

The elevator would make a dinging chime as the doors would prepare to open.

"-it honestly doesn't bother me that someone has selected to be a problem today."

She would smirk as she would start her march down the hallway to the lift, before stopping in front of a random door within the hallway. If it was an intruder, it would at least allow her to potentially misdirect them to the wrong door. The elevator would begin to open and a tall figure with white hair, in attire that she assumed had to be grueling to wear around outside in the country, would approach her. He was frantic, as it seemed he could barely wait for the doors to fully open as he would squeeze his way out and begin to move quickly down the hall before stopping at her. His words would come out choppy and as frantic as his movements. It would take her a moment, but it would eventually come to her;

"Kanmuri?"

She would pause, as within her mind the personnel file would flip through as she recalled the last time she remembered using his name.

n the Yamori Station investigation, all who returned reported nothing of great use; he was one of two that did not return. Now that he is present, only Harupia is still unaccounted for...

"I am going to give you 10 seconds to tell me what this information is... correction, I am going to give you one second to take a deep breath and compose yourself."

You are a damned shinobi of the village... get it together.

"For the remaining eight seconds you have to give me your important news. I will then give you my assessment of the news."

Her eyes would glance down the hallway as she would hear the budging of the door handle.

"I would hurry if I were you."

He doesn't like to be interrupted when playing the Kazekage role.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Approaching his desk he would grab the Kazekage hat, a wide-rimmed hat emblazed with the symbol of the Kazekage upon it.

Spoiler: Kazekage Symbol

His hat would have a string, one that he tucked under his chin to help keep it affixed to his person when choosing not to wear it in public and keeping his hands free, and to keep from sudden gusts sweeping it off. Placing it on, his eyes would be hidden behind the brim.

"My apologies, my humble guests. I must go attend to something right quick. I know it will be difficult, but please take a seat and remain calm. This will be sorted shortly."

His tone was serious as he pulled the hat back, causing it to rest behind his neck. His eyes would begin to burn as his chakra would swell up and leak outwards. Unlike Akkuma, or those like Akkuma, his would not feel grotesque or sinister, even when upset. There would be a warmth within the air, representative of his fiery chakra nature. It would also feel oddly reassuring as if a warm ray of sunshine was attempting to hug them. This would be representative to the holy attribute his chakra seemed to possess. He was not a monster like Akkuma, he was a being destined to oppose those emersed in darkness. A warm saintly light, the Ryuzaki's next Konungr, the Desert Dragon.

"It seems some children have decided to run in the hallway to get daddy's attention..."

Grasping the door, he would pull it open and begin to exit the room and enter the hallway. His focus would glare down the hallway towards Yukina and the figure with her.

Now, let's see who decided to Kage block me...

MFT - 1157 words

 

[Chigokai Yuna]

Yuna held her emotions as Mirō tore up her note. It was soon that someone else had decided to interrupt the meeting. She had stared back at Mirō in her eyes, something that her father said that he has done to a lot of Uchiha's as a way to say that he wasn't afraid of them, or that he was really determined? Heck, she might as well try it too.

Knowing that Uchiha were very powerful as they can cast Genjutsu with only their eyes, it would be stupid, but she needed to get a point across. She looked back down at her notepad and wrote down.

Spoiler

Look, I know that Leaf left a bad taste in our mouths for how they treated us after cutting ties. Especially after finding out the news that Leaf had questioned Sand about the attack but not warned Cloud. But if they learn of Akkuma and this Shion and Nobu connections, they might change their stance and help us. Just like us, they have lost people. And if these branching problems don't get known by all, then it will ultimately be more of a problem for us in the future. Something like an attack on any of the Villages Gates can happen if we aren't careful. Just at least consider what I have to say, or erm. Write.

All the while, she paid attention to any noises or voices outside. She sensed the whole environment around them. To her, she would only see distinct shapes of chakra signatures, not as good as a hyuuga and their byakugan. Three chakra signatures, one of which she could easily tell is Raizo, the other two kind of hard to guess.

 

[Kanmuri]

That was probably the worst thing Yukina could have said. She could have turned him away, told him they’d been looking for him, or even confirmed his suspicions and told him “You won’t escape this time.” Yet, unknown to Yukina, for this situation right now, the single question she’d ask would break his brain.

“Kanmuri?”

Kanmuri’s eyes jolted open wider. Yukina was talking, but Kanmuri was no longer listening

She…she knows who I am. How? Am I in danger? No, her response would’ve been different then, right? Well, then…based on her tone. I wouldn’t say they’d kidnap or experiment on me either. think—I think she’s one of the good guys. Wait? Did I just run into this tower without considering if I was even safe? What the hell is wrong with me?! Luckily, it worked out okay but, Primus, it could’ve been bad…Had way too much fun with my pre-

His chaotic thoughts would be cut short by the opening of and a blast of aura. It wasn’t sinister or dark, but it was still heavy. Although the aura felt inviting and warm—like a ray of sunshine attempting to hug someone—it was still incredibly intense. It didn’t have a singeing sensation like the crimson-headed man outside, instead, it felt kind of paralyzing after a while. Even though the aura resembled that of a hug, with enough force and pressure, a hug was no different than a bind. And that would be the later effect on Kanmuri.

He’d initially take two shocked steps back from the overwhelming presence of the aura before being trapped in place by the force of a million mountains hugging him. When the source came into the hall, the glare of the man sent him to his knee like a knight standing before his king. Luckily, in this case, the source was the Kazekage, so Kanmuri’s instant submission would appear like extreme loyalty more than anything.

What in the First Men? Kazekage Rai-

Before he could finish his thought, his mouth would take the steering wheel.

“Lord 11th! Agent Psychosis reporting for duty, sir!”

Agent who-now? What the hell is going on here?! What am I even saying?

Kanmuri paused almost as if giving Raizo enough time to tell him that he had permission to speak. Kanmuri’s outward demeanor had completely changed. His face now stern and serious. His eyes almost glared at Yukina and Raizo, and his voice was resounding and thunderous. Whether or not Kanmuri’s intention was for Raizo to give him permission to speak, the Kazekage would definitely have the time to give it. Regardless, the white-haired man would continue to speak.

“I bring important news regarding your current meeting! Sir! To not divulge the contents of the meeting, I shall cut to the chase. Two individuals met outside the tower just now, at the time of your meeting, to discuss a ‘Foreign Delegation’ you, the Kazekage, were having and how that would affect “their” species—the species being, what they referred to as: “Ancients of Suna.” The two individuals discussed how it would be disadvantageous to them, as a species, for people outside of Sunagakure to look for them and said that they’d have to, and I quote, “Do something about it.” They then discussed methods of eavesdropping and intel-gathering on the meeting! Sir!”

Uhhhhhh…..what in the name of all things Hol-

“If you’d like their descriptions, I can provide them now! Sir! I’m unaware of their current locations, and decided that it was more important to inform this to you than to try and find them. But their descriptions, I can provide!”

HUH?! When did I decide that?! I just wanted to get away from those two individuals…wait a second…is that why I chose to come in here? No, couldn’t be. It was just the quickest way to get away from them, and everything else fell into place. That’s all there was to it.

Despite his thoughts, his body would still move on its own. Kanmuri would then stand, salute Kazekage Raizo and stand at attention until prompted otherwise. This was the first time he had been so close to the man. He was much taller than the 5 foot 9 Kanmuri. He was a lean man with a powerful expression. His black hair was rugged and intense, and the man’s overall demeanor was authoritative and arresting. If Kanmuri wasn’t trapped in his mind, he’d have long since fainted by now.

 

[Kagami Miro]

As the Sennin’s nails shredded the note Yuna had written she felt those amethyst hues stare her down. Her own hues had been intensely fixated on Yuna’s own. A stupid move that only proved she was in fact Ziren’s daughter. Determined, hard-working, and crazy. Mirō reminisced about the times at her gates. Crazy fool walked right up to her with spears pointed at their throat. The threat of genjutsu from the Sennin’s eyes sent fear into the hearts of many even though, in all of her life, she hadn’t used genjutsu to manipulate the minds of those around her. Only in battle has visual prowess been used to change the outcome into her favor, everyone else was just weak.

Once she had turned away and adorned her mask the Kazekage left the room. That’s when Yuna hurriedly scribbled another note for her Sennin to read. Mirō had half a mind to disregard her note but her gut pushed her to read it. A small giggle escaped her lips, a free hand covering her mask's lips. “You’d do better if you keep that to yourself.” The Sennin began to wonder if Yuna really was thick in the head. From her expression and adamancy towards Konoha it made the Sennin wonder if Yuna had been compromised in any way. The disgust toward Leaf had been justified with all of Mirō’s heart.

However, that didn’t mean she wanted war with the grubby little village. Mirō’s values had been sculpted to mold Kumogakue into the perfect haven for the citizens. A stable economy, prosperous ninja and technological advancement the other villages could only dream of. With such high goals came equally high risks and war with Konoha had been one of them. Who would she be if she were to declare war on Konoha? A traitor to her own people who made her into what she is today. That was a goal she wouldn’t sacrifice.

“We will not notify Konoha of those connections. A taste of their own vile medicine will do just nicely.” Those pink lips curled into a wide wicked grin beneath her mask. Karma. And it always tasted sweeter since the stakes were raised. ‘Didn’t warn Kumogakure about the attack? We won’t warn them of Akkuma and Nobu’s dealings.’ Her words echoed out to Naibu, who matched her words with a devilish smile. “My words are absolute.” Mirō gave Yuna one final look before turning away to face the Kage’s desk. At that moment her ears twitched at the stranger's voice in the hall. However faint, the stillness of the room made it easier to pick up keywords from the strangers' exasperated breaths. Talk of another duo, the Ancients and an urge to spill blood. Were these Ancients that bold to risk the chance of getting caught?​

 

[Raizo]

He would slowly begin to make his way down the hallway towards Yukina and the other individual. Within his right hand, now clenched into a fist, the chakra, a blend of a harmonic holy and a temptest flame, began to merge creating a visible aura. Within his mind, there was only one current overarching thought; protect the delegates. Would there be other thoughts? Yes, but those thoughts would be connected to this very simple order, so to think any further past that would be wasteful.

"Yukina..." he would say in a monotone as he continued down the hallway, "...friend or foe?"

There wasn't irrationality to his actions, even if they seemed a bit extreme. He had not launched immediately into an attack so that he could survey the situation. He did not attack upon seeing the situation as it seemed the figure and Yukina were not engaged in battle either. So hostility, outside of his own, seemed to be low. Then the individual would take a knee, as almost instantly, while not completely, his aura would dissipate and his bloodlust would disappear.

"Friend. Ka---" she would stop as the man, not even wearing a mask, would announce his codename and begin his report. She would only sigh as she watched on.

Seemingly just as confused, Raizo would listen to the report from Psychosis.

"So help me... if I hear one more person say something as fundamentally flawed as the 'Ancients of Suna' in my presence with a serious tone again... I might melt down the Luminous Mountains" he would say with a clearly annoyed tone, but a smile would shine through regardless.

"Agent Psychosis, I appreciate your report. I appreciate you identifying a potential threat and bringing it to my attention."

These were the positives.

"Now, I will question this, and the only reason I do such is that we have the upcoming Sennin Games approaching and I need everyone sharp; is it more important to know this information and not know their location... or would it be more beneficial to know their location now? You are an... ANBU, right? I usually don't see one of you dropping your name without a mask... so my next question is this; are you okay? Are you under the influence of something negative?"

There is no reason to end without promise, everyone needs a light, right?

"Now... Yukina, could you give him yours?"

Yukina would nod as she would remove her headset and handed it to Kanmuri.

"Psychosis, since you are the only one aware of their appearance, I need you to return to the field, find them and then don't engage but simply use the headset to call me directly" he would motion to a small black dot he would place into his own ear. "I am sorry that I am tasking you to be a hunting dog, and I would encourage you to wear a mask before you leave this building, but I am trusting you have the skills and ability to find them again right? You said they were coming here... so you've at least narrowed down the search zone."

He would place his hand upon the shoulder of Kanmuri, still smiling.

"Can I trust you to take care of this assignment?"

"If you need my assistance, Psychosis, I will join you" Yukina would chime in. She had an ulterior motive, however, but since Raizo didn't have the foresight enough to just assign her to go with him she would have to attempt to create her own opening.

"Now, I will be returning to our delegates, but as soon as you call in, Psychosis, I will immediately come to your position."

There would only be the holy aura seeping off of him. A natural healing effect, a calming presence, it truly was chakra that felt like a warm embrace.

mft-615

 

[Chigokai Yuna]

Yuna had listened to Miro's words. she bit the bottome of her lip, not like her Sennin would see it, and gave a sigh. She then wrote down.

Spoiler

As you wish

There would be no point in arguing about this. With her time in company of her Sennin, she has figured that Miro is a little bit on the hard head and stubborn type. Especially if she has no trust. Yuna has a feeling that it could lead to some problems down the road, but she would rather not have an argument with her Sennin while on foreign lands. If anything, they need to be working together for there could be at any time forces working against them. And now that they are on Akkuma's radar, it would be only a matter of time before they would need to work together again. And Yuna would rather that they be on good terms if they need to work together to take out an enemy.

But other than that, she had heard word of who had interrupted their meeting to talk to Raizo. The yelling made it rather easy for Yuna to hear of what's going on. The Yeller, calls themself, Psychosis, and if Yuna was a betting gal, she'd think it would belong to an ANBU, who else would name their child Psychosis? Then it went on to the Ancients of Suna, how this meeting would affect their species and that they would need to eavesdrop on the meeting. Even though her and Miro have their differences, she tapped on her Sennin's arm and pointed at her own eyes and gestured around the room in an inconspicuous manner. She'd rather not have to deal with a fourth party in this spiralling mess that she has found herself in. But she can't also rule out the possibility that with this new bit of information that the Ancients of Suna very well might be working with Akkuma, she doesn't know how much was overheard at the Gates, if that is where she suspects their conversations could have been overheard at. Something that would give information to Akkuma if these people do in fact work with the Dark Sage.

Anything else that might have been said, Yuna would not know as neither Yukina nor Raizo were yelling their heads off. But the fact now remains. She has to vigilant now more than ever since there is a bigger possibility that there were more people to keep track of and be wary around. On the inside, she is trying her best not to tear her own hair out. But on the outside, she gave another sigh and remained stoic as she only scanned the area around them with only her eyes without moving her head to see any irregular chakra signatures that are in the environment.

 

[Kagami Miro]

At that moment her ears twitched at the stranger's voice in the hall. However faint, the stillness of the room made it easier to pick up keywords from the strangers' exasperated breaths. Talk of another duo, the Ancients and an urge to spill blood. Were these Ancients that bold to risk the chance of getting caught?

Mirō peered over at Yuna who began to write in her notepad. Whatever note she had written would not affect how the Sennin operated. In fact, anything short of undying obedience would have been written off as insubordination, something she handled with a heavy hand. As they awaited the Kazekage’s return Yuna pulled on her Sennin’s arm. Without looking away she nodded. A free hand reached up to gently tap her own ear to signal Yuna to listen carefully. Any information, whispered, or in this case, yelled was information but it was up to them to see if it held any worth.

The perpetrator went by the name of ‘Agent: Psychosis’. A nickname had been dropped and the only branches to use those were her own. A bold move of the operative, not one ounce of subtlety yet the Kazekage expects them to go onto reconnaissance without delay. Mirō’s eye brown rose curiously. Her ops were hand picked by a long list of requirements needed to join the ANBU and an even bigger list to be promoted to the next stage. Just look at the two new faces of her own branch. Her apprentice and the stealthy musician, their loyalty just needed to be tested.

The Ancients of Suna were on the move. In what direction was a mystery to the duo. Vigilance was to be expected from here on out. Red hues peered over towards the window to watch where the shadows landed. Their time within the Kazekage’s presence and Sand itself nearly had reached her limits. Her duty to report back to the Raikage weighed on her shoulders. There was much to discuss with Kitsune. Ancients of Sand, if she wanted to pursue it, missing ninja from leaf, conspiracies and misinformation that began to run rampant. It was only a matter of time before each face of evil showed themselves and made big moves. As if the gate attacks weren’t enough. Her checklist was massive, and she still had to consider what to do about Konoha’s lack of empathy and information given to Kumogakure. Her mind was aflutter with thoughts only to come to a standstill once the click of the door handle echoed throughout the room.

[Sorry for the slow reply. Holidays, work, life, etc.]​