The Last Dance of Shadows [Kage Summit] [Private]

[Seijin]

"How does it feel to be a problem?" he ask and the question instantly tilts me from my comfortable seat. I'd only been speaking to the Hokage off of the record up until this point but it was my line of questions concerning why he was stepping down out of the blue as many saw it. For a fact, his question came across more as a statement of how he felt personally but the rhetorical nature of it sent my mind wandering to just what sort of man he was to be able to so easily imply so little of himself. Did he really believe that he was the problem to Konoha's woes, or was he daring me to dig a little deeper into the politics of it all. Perhaps it was simply that felt the weight of the world on his shoulders, or perhaps I was bothering him at a moment in time in which he was getting ready for a very important "Last Call". Whatever the case, as the time spent would go on, the Nidaime Hokage would continue to dare me to ponder over the question for an answer that might not ever come.

~ Hachi Bebe, Writer for the Shinobi Illustrated magazine

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Walking into the majestic looking room, Umashi paused for the briefest of moments before stepping any further past the greeter. Closing his eyes to savor the moment, the soon to be former Hokage made a promise to himself that he'd do his best to enjoy every minute. It wasn't that he was necessarily giving up all hope getting any business done, but in setting up this meeting between the various Kage, he spared no expense in making sure that it would be just as much fun as it would be fit for the elite among them. Buying out the whole of a casino for the day, the theme was high excellence at its finest but the dress code was relaxed. Being that the guest list included many a prominent figure from just as many corners of the shinobi world, Umashi didn't want to exclude anyone of note who simply didn't care to wear a suit and tie. Having let Yomi pick out his outfit, he himself was dressed to impress, as were the triplets in their little outfits and thankfully, the journalist woman from the fancy magazine also managed to dress the part.

Setting the tone, Umashi made it clear that even though only Kage and Sennin were invited, that all of their immediate families were also invited. Husbands and wives, children and . . . simply because of the Inuzuka . . . pets were allowed as well. True, with so many powerful persons and families in attendance, the possible threat of a rogue shinobi trying to score a fortunate hit was to be expected, but even though he'd spent out a small fortune to rent the place, he paid twice as much to make sure that the entire block was more than adequately secured. Everyone would be vetted and even so much as a bird in the sky that managed to get too close was immediately investigated. Walking in and seeing many a respected Fire Country politician, Umashi nodded and smiled as he walked through the main and initial rooms, quite literally shaking hands and kissing babies. While many were here for a party for the elite, Umashi was here to solidify bonds and to secretly throw himself the best retirement party of all time. Making his way to the ballroom that was closed off to all but the "High Rollers", Umashi flashed his invitation as well as the ones for his family and the journalist woman, Hachi Bebe, as they were quickly allowed to pass. Tonight would be a night to remember.

Spoiler

OOC: This is the Kage Summit thread. While the name implies that only Kage are allowed in, all shinobi country/village higher ups are allowed in the initial and main room casino areas. The "High Roller" room is reserved for Kage, Sennin and Daimyo/Leaders only though. I'd ask that those questioning if they should/can join ask as I'd really like to keep the topic classy.

 

[Kishiko Nagisa]

Kenshin was nervous abut this. All of the shinobi's world's leaders were going to be here. It was on neutral grounds of course this being Tea country so no one had a home field advantage. Still, some of the strong est shinobi were going to be here tonight and that is a high risk for trouble. Kenshin had been waiting for Umashi to show up and when he saw him enter the casino, followed him quietly.

Tonight, Kenshin had trouble deciding on what to wear. It was a classy event to be sure but dress code was relaxed. Still, he wanted to be professional. He forewent his military vest and stuck to a simple outfit of green and black, green button down shirt and black pants. He even found some earrings and bars that were black. Kenshin followed Umashi into the ballroom after flashing his ID to the greeter.

Kenshin would take a place just past the entrance and keep an eye on all who would enter. He would smile and nod to all who entered keeping things friendly. Mentally he would keep track of everyone in the room, confirming with his eyes every minute or so.

 

[Senju Kazuki]

Table Title

The word about a certain meeting of the Kages of all the major Hidden Villages spread like wildfire in a dry plain. Such gathering of the leaders of a Shinobi Village was so rare, that few around in the entire world had the chance to witness one. But this meeting, called by the Hokage, was even more special. The Sennins of each village had also been invited to attend. Kazuki was one of Sunagakure's Sennins and he had just received the invitation letter when he had caught up with the rumors about such a gathering. After a quick read of the contents, the Senju Overlord immediately began making his way toward the gathering place. As a former ANBU operative, the White Wolf understood very well the meaning of security. He was quite positive the Kazekage was going to attend and, therefore, making sure there would be no threats to his leader's well being, was one of the Shadow Sword's main objectives. He had, however, a secondary one. He had left Sunagakure, in recent weeks, with the purpose of enterng Konohagakure's grounds and close a deal that had been, supposedly, brokered between Takahashi Sousuke and Uchiha Takeshi. A peace treaty, if you will, and after being appointed as Ambassador for Leaf matters, the Occult Sennin left his new Hidden Village and attempted to enter his old one and settle everything. Unfortunately, his journey had not been a smooth one and he suffered a few setbacks that made him turn away from his ancestral home and enter Tea Country instead. After being invited to this meeting, Reaper quickly understood he had a very good chance of finishing what he had proposed to do.[lb2][/lb2] The Death Court Lord was the first to arrive for Sand. His presence was, as usual, announced way before he breached the premises. Kazuki's body, as mandated to any Deep Court Ancient, exuded a natural aura of death and coldness, that few individuals could resist. The matter of supernatural that happened with him did not just rest with a coldness aura. Any shadows in the area become livelier at his presence and there was always a light howling of the wind. The Senju Overlord wore a black and gray robe with silvery trimmings and an open colar, along with a large, red, flowing toga drapped around his body and across his chest, black combat boots and black pants finished his attire. Clothing that those from Leaf should immediately recognized if they had been there alongside him. He was a very pale individual, verging on sickly, though he was in perfect health. His hair was short and had the coloration of silver and his eyes were a pair of onyxes. He had met his fair share of Kages and Sennins in his life, and he was wondering how the much those he had met before would also attend the meeting. How much the world had change since he took a permanent residence inside Sunagakure. After a thorough scan of the premises and finding little flaws in its inherent security system, Reaper would send a message to his Kage. "The building is secure, you can come over."​ </TD> <TD td0="null" td1="1">[td=null,1]Black Omen [lb][/lb] Senju Kazuki – Occult Sennin[lb][/lb]

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[Uchiha Takeshi]

Takeshi seemed to be the next one of Konaha to turn to this place, he had to give credit where it was due it seemed that Umashi had picked the best place for the meeting, it was rare that you would find so many important people in one place. Yet it seemed that the situation was finally upon them as Takeshi walked into the place looking at the tables, looking at the people that would be there he knew that he would need the pass, checking his surroundings it seemed that it was a secure place as he stood there at the entrances.

Takeshi allowed himself to breath in for a few seconds as he closed his eyes, it was a big day today and he would have to get to grips with meeting all the Kage and the Sennin’s coming from one meeting to another it seemed that Takeshi had taken the time to logically go threw everything in his head. He would be stepping up and right now he would have to have words with some of them, it seemed that as he opened his eyes and begun to walk he would see a few of the familiar faces, slowly they where all assembling here.

Takeshi walked to where the group at the back where assembling, as he allowed himself to slowly take out the document that allowed him access into the small elite group that was being gathered. He noticed that Kazuki was the first one from Sand to arrive, that caused a small smile to come to his lips as he looked at his old teacher, from how they met this morning, to how he was now things had changed so much it was unreal on how this situation had changed and been done. He just hoped that the groups would be able to sort out matters.

Remember the conversation it seemed that the opportunity for Kazuki to finish the peace treaty with Leaf would be coming his way, but that could also mean that his own Kage would be showing his face here if the Sennin was around. Takeshi walked threw the group of the two of them and only stopped quickly to say a few words to Kazuki.

“Seems like you will have your chance to finish up what we started in Sand, I have to say opportunities are rare these days and this meeting is even rarer. Well Kazuki I will catch you a bit later if you excuse me I must join the Hokage”

Takeshi allowed himself to walk threw after pocketing his invitation once more he headed towards Umashi and Kenshin a smile coming to his face as he looked towards the other Sennin, he wondered how he would take the news. Though he remember the fact that Kenshin had not been at the meeting though that didn’t really matter he would have time to take in the news, it seemed that Takeshi was standing beside Umashi showing the support expected of one of the Sennin’s of Leaf.

“So it begins then Umashi, I saw Kazuki from sand is here, which means that conversation to finish up the deal will take place here, I hope you do not mind?”

 

[Kairyuu]

It seemed he recognized everyone so far. Maki’s eyes move between the men present as he steps into the room, the brown orbs darting about to pick out faces and put names and attributes to them. Umashi, Hokage. Soon to be former. Pirate. Leadership quality was above average. Kenshin, Sennin. Unknown capacity for leadership. Unknown on all fronts, actually, beyond the fact that for a bit he served as Yomi’s body guard. Takeshi, Sennin, future Hokage. Graceful loser. Leadership was above average, but opinion was biased. Would need recalibrated once Takeshi took the mantle. Kazuki, Sand Sennin. Unknown on most fronts, thought Maki’s name was Isaki Tsukiakari. Could be an issue. Owed Maki money on a mission.

For his part, Maki decided to show up as he had in the tournament. It would do well, he thought, to remind these people that he was taking part. He wasn’t sure if anyone else had sent anyone of Sennin rank or not. While he was only a Captain when he was sent, he’d be taking part in the future battles as his new rank. So there he stood, wearing his bastardized samurai armor.

It began with a black shirt, so tight as to be form fitting on his upper torso and short of sleeve. Over that was a red jacket that went from shoulder to halfway down his torso before ending abruptly where his ribs were. It had several symbols upon it which on closer look were symbols for the village of Konohagakure. Over the longer sleeves were red han kote that provided minor protection of his forearms. Under this were pants that were as black as the shirt, topped by red haidate that would provide similar protection of his thighs. He had black combat boots on, with red suneate that covered his shins. Completing the ensemble were the weapons at his side. Each appeared to be a katana, and one had a parrying ring built into the hilt. Something that was rarely seen.

He accepts a drink brought to him, sipping at it softly as his eyes seem to shift from one blink to the next. Going from their natural brown color to an intense gold. For now, he would remain silent and gather the information he could for it.

 

[Kogami Ayumu]

A Kage Summit was the last thing Ayumu wanted to attend, but he knew that there was no avoiding it. His least favorite part of the job was talking to foreign dignitaries, though not all of them were bad. These kinds of things were usually too uptight for his tastes- long boring talks that accomplished little to nothing. Who knew, though? Perhaps this would be different? The Kage of all of the village were supposedly to be in attendance. Of course, Ayumu knew Umashi and had met his fair share of Leaf shinobi through their alliance, but he had met very few Sand shinobi in his life let alone a Kazekage. He likely should have been a little nervous, but a bit of pregame drinking helped with that. Never really hearing what the dress code was supposed to be, he'd picked up a black suit, vest and tie underneath a jacket, at a local tailor. There was a small silver Kumogakure symbol pinned to his lapel. He was already used to wearing his uniform at most times, so it wasn't something he was uncomfortable with wearing.

Strolling into the main room, Ayumu looked around at all the lights and colors. This place was built for fun, so why'd they have to have a stuffy meeting here? Letting out a small sigh he continued through the room towards the back where he was beckoned and presented his invitation before stuffing it back into a jacket pocket and proceeding through to the VIP area. For some reason, he had expected it to look like a board room. He wasn't sure why, it was a casino after all. Instead there were several poker tables and in the far back of the room, a bar. "Now we're talking," Ayumu whispered to himself. Looking around, he saw mostly unfamiliar faces. Umashi was there in the company of a couple others, presumably more high ranking Leaf shinobi. If he spotted Ayumu, Ayumu would nod in greeting. He would say hello before the night was through, but for now he had somebody else to become acquainted with first. The bartender.

Marching up to the bar, Ayumu pointed out an expensive looking bottle of liquor and undid the buttons of his jacket before taking a seat while he waited for a glass to be poured. Soon enough, a glass was placed before him and filled with an amber looking liquid. It seemed he was dealing with an open bar. 'Maybe this won't turn out to be so bad after all,' Ayumu commented, taking a sip of his freshly poured drink. Reaching up to his collar, he loosened his tie a bit. He wasn't sure what was on the agenda for the night, but right now this seemed like a good way to kill some time.

 

[Seijin]

Dressed in quite the dapper three piece black suit, Umashi nodded and mingled with the best and in some ways probably the worst that the shinobi world had to offer. Though he hated to see her go, Umashi ended up having to let Yomi retire for the evening with the kids. She'd worked so hard to allow him to get to this particular point and for that he was thankful so he understood why she wanted to call the night a bit early. As he watched her walk away with the guard detail, he smiled at how fortunate he truly was to have her. No sooner had she left than Takeshi was quickly at his side speaking about the agreement with Sunagakure. Musing over the thought of such a deal being handled while in the vicinity of the Raikage was one that brought just as much excitement as it brought fear. Fear of the unknown ties that Suna and Kumo might or might not have as well as fear of what would happen if everyone didn't see eye to eye.

"Sure, let's make it happen and heck, let's see if Kumo want's to also come to the negotiating table as well." Nodding and continuing on, he made his way to the bar where he spied a seemingly sated Raikage, Ayumu. Recognizing one dapper individual when he saw it, he waltzed over to the bartender as well and ordered a lemonade spritzer. While he was definitely in the mood for throwing back the tough stuff, he wanted to at least give the evening some time before he got a little too comfortable. With the woes of being the party host upon his shoulders, he spoke to the Raikage in a matter of fact way and turned to face the moving crowd as he spoke. "I'm retiring . . . after this whole tournament mumbu jumbo is over." Taking a sip of his drink he relished the fizzy feeling of the drink and how light it made him feel. "Wife just had kids, triplets in fact . . . and I want to spend time with them without having to look over my shoulder . . . overly much. Alas, I've been looking at some rather nice homes in your neck of the woods!" Giving a light hearted chuckle, Umashi looked forward to soon to be new beginnings.

OOC: Outfit below.

Spoiler

 

[Mikaboshi]

[Kept you waiting, huh?]

The definition of formal was different for the shinobi from other villages. Where they wore formally cut suits and ties, the Kazekage arrived in dress that was considerably more traditional. Before he had been Kazekage, before he'd come to Sunagakure and taken the name he should have had from birth, before he'd taken up the Sword of the King Katsuo had been a nomad along with the rest of his people. The Masashi were one of many of the desert tribes commonly considered by the aristocracy of Wind Country to be savages that worshiped the old ways. A dying breed that clung to fading beliefs in legends too old to have happened and monsters that were too horrific to be real. In many ways he was a changed man from the young boy that had grown up thinking himself the son of an unremarkable desert ranger that had died an unremarkable death but in a few very simple but important ways he was still very much that son of a ranger.

Immediately he stood out as different among the others that were here. Old fashioned, perhaps. He wore a formal male kimono that was a dark red color on it's upper half and black in the lower hakama portion of the attire with a simple black sash that tied his garb together. Over his choice of dress he wore a long white and black haori that was emblazoned on the back of it with the sigil of Sunagakure-- a symbol that bore an uncanny resemblance to an hourglass with a lid sitting over the top of it. Perhaps the most striking part about the way Katsuo was dressed was the fact that around his body he wore a long sling... that ended in a sword hanging off to the side of his waist. Katsuo was a war time leader and dressed the part as he could not afford to go anywhere without thinking about the danger that it might present to him. At once Katsuo felt the weight of gazes upon him-- he was not like them and as a result it drew the attention from others who were not familiar with seeing a man dressed the way Katsuo was --but the Tenth Kazekage did not feel any hesitation about why he was here.

Just as he'd told Kyuji, Azusa and Yatamaru-- they all had their parts to play and Katsuo's was to be strong and present a stable front to the other shinobi villages. The only shinobi he'd ever met from another village were a couple of shinobi from the now-deserted Kirigakure and a handful of folks from Moon Country but this was not the time to let that be apparent. It was unlikely that the Wind daimyo had conscripted any of the other major shinobi nations into the civil war that was raging between his regime and Sunagakure but he could not afford to allow that to become an option for them. The best case scenario was perhaps securing a relationship of understanding with Konohagakure and seeking aid from them given that the daimyo's forces had struggled to deal with just Sunagakure's shinobi so far but that was wishful thinking for now.

"Sir... your invitat-- sir. I... regret to inform you that the management does ban weaponry on the premises. We have to insist that you surrender it for the duration of your... visit. Please. Sir."

The attendant that had approached the newly arrived Kazekage had started out blithely routine in the way that he spoke but as he became aware of the fact that the man he was speaking to was armed with a very real sword his tone of voice shifted to one of cautiousness. While taverns and bars belonging to the areas of the city more well known for lower income residents often had to deal with matters such as these, it was rare that anyone ever dared to try and bring a weapon into this particular establishment and certainly not one so obvious in nature. Katsuo looked to him and for a moment considered debating the request for him to surrender his blade for the time being but thought better of it immediately. The last thing he needed to do was get kicked out of the establishment where this supposed summit was to be held before it even began for refusing to disarm himself.

And even then, Katsuo was never really disarmed.

Rolling his shoulder and ducking his head under the strap of Tatsumasa, Katsuo lightly handed the blade to the attendant before reaching into his haori to retrieve his invitation.

"I'll need that back though." Katsuo said with a smile, trying to set the attendant at ease while he showed him his invitation and finished surrendering his sword. He felt Caliburn's consciousness brush against his own as if to voice her concern at leaving his side and he sent back a sense of reassurement to his tsukumogami partner. He could always call for her if he needed her.

With a slight bow that Katsuo returned to him, the attendant scooted away and then disappeared to a staff room to secure the sword he'd relieved the Kazekage of and as the young man walked away Katsuo turned his attention to the room that had plenty of eyes watching the exchange, looking for Kazuki who had given him the heads up that the premises was secure enough for him to make his arrival.

 

[Raizo]

Still in a rather foul mood, he would enter shortly after the new Kazekage. If someone asked to check weapons they would be greeted with a "piss off" and a snarl. If he was feeling more personable he would explain that individuals who can summon elements out of thin air and level buildings with the slightest effort, them having a physical weapon was little to no real consequence. But, with the bad mood and all, he decided to snap at the poor soul that stood before him.

Proceeding onward he would grab the first free drink he could get his hands on and continue trailing behind Katsuo. Fittingly, he was dressed in all black to match his wonderful mood. There was a time when he was younger that he almost always had a suit and tie on, but now he felt more comfortable being dressed in is new formal; a more fighting formal. Although Kazuki had already scoped the place out, he would begin his own ocular scan of the area.

No. No. No. Threat. No. Threat. No. No...

He would continue looking over the area, noticing how apparent it was who were the shinobi of power and who were the suits and higher ups of countries.
Moving a bit quicker to tail closer behind Katsuo he would ask something that he had not considered before, something that did not hit him until noticing the crowd that the Hokage and invited to this shindig.

"What are we doing if our Daimyo shows up?"

His words would be said low enough for only the village leader in front of him to catch. It was time to prepare for the worst case scenario, as other villages did not seem to care to figure out the delicate, or unstable, relationships within the other countries. He didn't expect much else, however.

MFT - 307 words

 

[Sand Council]

The troubled thoughts would come to a close. The true leader of Wind County had arrived on a ship the day before. Perhaps there would have been more fanfare had those reporting his arrival had survived. However there was none left to herald their landing or their subsequent participation in this Summit among Kings and little men that thought themselves important enough to arrive. His name was Ishii Shiro, Diamyo of Wind Country. A title he had enjoyed for more than two decades and a title he had every intention of enjoying for several more. Diamyo Shiro was a stern-looking man whom appeared much younger than he actually was. While he had celebrated his seventieth birthday some time ago, he looked like a man in his late forties. His long, dark hair was pulled from his face and ornamented with a gilded hairpiece at his crown that wrapped a portion of his hair in a small half-bun. His deep widows peak would lead ones eyes to his golden eyes, eyes which his eldest son shared but not his younger two whom took after their Hyuuga mother. A thick yet straight nose and deep lines would surround narrow lips. His expression neutral, confident perhaps as he strode into the summit, his wife on his arm.

They would be stopped of course. His wife was armed. She was always armed. A slender sword was sheathed at her lip and her coat possessed two revolvers as well as a set of kunai and an EMP grenade which she parted with at the door graciously. Shiro carried no weapons, just his hands but he could hardly part with those. He would sign his name into a ledger if offered. He did not care if he was not given the option, everyone whom mattered would know exactly who he was. He considered the fledgling countries of Kohona and Kumo to be below his notice, too far away and more their Lord's problem. His issue on this day, some desert nomad -- nothing more than a man with a known bloodline link to a long dead hero was considered to be a 'leader.' A leader of what? Misfits. What a motley crew of shinobis the desert prince had gathered, enough to slow murder his pious son these past two years past. They simply gave the boy with the pointiest of sticks the crown and called him a leader, at least that was how Shiro saw it.

The door would open, their foreign scent would waif into the hall. It was easy enough to identify the Sunans. Nearly as easy to identify the other foreign leaders. His golden eyes were discerning, he was curious as to how much power and authority they had in their corner of the world and how long it would take before they did become relevant. "Mingle my dear," he announced as he relinquished his grip on Merchant Lady Hisamura. She was dressed neatly in military attire, a deep blue but despite her masculine apparel she was a beautiful young woman whom looked more than a decade younger than her husband. Perhaps she was marrying up but for those whom read the papers, even foreigners they would recognize her as the Leafed Emerald. She was the heiress to a jewelers fortune and the general, well former general of Ishii's private Soverign army prior to being appointed a Merchant Lord well over a decade ago. Recently she was in the papers for her recent nuptials, making her Shiro's eighth wife.

She seemed relaxed in this formal atmosphere and she would simply approach the nearest foreign or domestic to catch her eye (next poster). "Good day [insert your name if you are famous enough to be recognized], I am Merchant Lord Mako," she would extend a gloved hand towards the young man or woman she was greeting and would grip their hand with a strength befitting a shinobi more than a dignitary. She would smile but the expression would not feel sincere. "After this meeting you must join me for dinner," she announced. She did not leave it as a question or as an option. Perhaps she was a woman that knew what she wanted or she was used to getting whatever she wanted. The distinction was rarely that different. Of course there was significance in her words, something that this person was likely to miss. She would then relinquish her grip, the one she maintained so firmly until then unless she was somehow overpowered and excuse herself with a wordless nod.

Diamyo Shiro would stride over to the Hokage, Wind Country's closest neighbor. A land only recently resurrected from ruin, the failings of their Lord Daimyo. A country of easy-pickings. "Hokage..." his voice trailed off as he let out an almost condescending laugh. "I apologize, I cannot seem to recall you name." [As for whom he was speaking to, be it Umashi or Takeshi, that is up to you.] He had read it somewhere of course, he read the paper daily but he saw the transition of power in most foreign communities to be little more than celebrity gossip-mongering. "I am Wind Diamyo Shiro," he announced never extending his hand. He had no trust for shinobis, too many tricks. He would glance over at the Sennins and Kazekage as he interfaced with the foreign leader. What were they going to do here at this 'peaceful' summit. Continue their private war for the word to see? No, they weren't. If they tried, they would be unsupported and let's be honest -- with his gifts they were on completely different levels. Why Nao tried to stop him from coming was beyond him. This was his best oppertunity to gather allies against Sunagakure or to gauge the strength of the other shinobi nations before future aggressions erupted. He claimed calculations were already in progress. That there would be a full assessment soon. He sounded more like an Oracle than a Seer and Caster."I have heard about the hardiness of your Kohonans," he would continue despite the fact that he was looking past the Leaf leader. He was watching the Sunans, curious to see if he would even need to force a reaction.

After all, they already stole his daughter. Where was the international outcry then?

As for Mako, she was number eight. There could always be a number nine. At the very least her sacrifice would destroy the desert community as the possibility of foreign support and aid was withdrawn.

It was certainly time to play a game.

 

[Senju Kazuki]

Table Title

Not many people had joined the so called meeting of the century. Umashi and three people from Leaf, two of them Kazuki already knew. Takeshi was one of them, his former protégée now successor as Leaf’s ANBU Sennin. He also knew the other, the foreigner that happened to take a nap in the Senju Overlord’s office and was tasked with finding proof that Konohagakure had been restored. And, of course, Reaper still remembered Umashi, the former Main Branch Sennin he had appointed as Hokage before Leaf fell at the hands of the Fire Daimyo. Then there was the other gentleman that he did not know, but had assumed to be from Kumogakure. The White Wolf saw as Takeshi talked with Umashi and then how the Hokage sat near the Kumon in and traded words with the individual. He could not hear their words, but judging from the pirate’s posture, they were familiar with each other. The Shadow Sword had been waiting for a while, expecting Katsuo’s arrival to join the Kazekage’s side, when the guy himself entered the premises. One word immediately stood out after he spotted his leader’s entrance. Traditional. Katsuo basically screamed the word traditional, a very deep contrast compared to Umashi and the other guy that were dressed with fine suits.[lb2][/lb2] The Deep Court Hybrid would slowly make his way toward Sunagakure’s leader, his dark gaze fixed on the last Sunahoshi, but every other sense attuned to everything else. Kazuki did not know how well traveled Katsuo really was so he was not aware if the Kazekage knew anyone else there, besides his own Sennin. ”I am going to assume you never left Wind Country before and you do not know anyone here, besides this foreigner currently talking with you, so I am going to give you a crash course right now.”</GLOW><i></i> he would announce, giving Katsuo enough time to correct him in case he was wrong. ”That guy dressed in a dark suit is Umashi, current Hokage, former Main Branch Sennin. When Leaf fell, I was the last active Sennin and I appointed Umashi as Hokage so he owes me and you can use that if necessary.”<i></i> he would note as he pointed toward Umashi. His hand would shift over to Takeshi. ”That one is Uchiha Takeshi, former protégée of mine when I was Leaf’s ANBU Sennin. He has been appointed as ANBU Sennin, in a way he is my replacement.”<i></i> He would then point toward Maki. ”That one I caught sleeping inside my office and sent to Konoha to check if it had been restored. He returned with Takeshi and, if he is here, it means he has been made Sennin or is close to be one. I do not know much else about him, unfortunately.”<i></i> Next came Kenshin. ”That individual is also from Leaf but I do not know him, he was not around when I was a Leaf Shinobi.”<i></i> And the only one left was the Raikage. ”I also do not know the other individual dressed with a suit, but I am assuming he is from Kumogakure, possibly the Raikage. I have been in Cloud before, I met Hayata Shin, the Raikage back then. But I have also heard he had been killed and replaced. I assume this is the replacement but I have never met him before.”<i></i>[lb2][/lb2] <GLOW glow="darkred">”Any questions if you want answered? I have visited every major country this world has to offer and have been part of three different Hidden Villages, with positions of power in all three as well. I have firmed deals with 3 different Kages, Tsuchikage, Raikage and Sousuke, though I am now a Suna shinobi until the rest of my days.” he would question. A crash course indeed.[lb2][/lb2] [MFT - 622] ​ </TD> <TD td0="null" td1="1">[td=null,1]Black Omen [lb][/lb] Senju Kazuki – Occult Sennin[lb][/lb]

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[Kishiko Nagisa]

Kenshin carefully watched those who entered.

"Cloud shinobi and Sand shinobi confirmed. All strong. If need be, throw down smoke bomb and leave with Umashi. Takeshi and Maki can take care of themselves. Hopefully this remains peaceful.' Kenshin would follow Umashi at a safe distance pretending to drink his drink and trying to be casual. He did overhear Umashi's statement to the Raikage. It was shocking news to him but Kenshin was grateful that Umashi was putting Yomi first.

Then the Wind Daimyo introduced himself and made a remark about forgetting a name and about how hardy leaf shinobi are while looking over Umashi's shoulder.

'Too close' Kenshin thought in in a brief moment he was in front of Umashi as if he had been standing there the entire time.

"This is the current Hokage Umashiashikabihikoji or Umashi for short. I am the Hokage's bodyguard Yuu Kenshin. A pleasure to meet you." Kenshin would introduce, a smile on his face. He would give a curt nod before taking a step to the side his eyes fixed on Shiro. His eyes would flick around to the others in the room before returning to Shiro.

 

[Uchiha Takeshi]

Takeshi allowed himself to look around and see the new faces, it seemed that the first entry to this place was from cloud, though he knew full well that he should try and have some form of communication in this situation. He pondered his conversations that he had in tea and knew that he would have to approach the Raikage at some point and he may as well get that one over and done with. Umashi seemed to be friendly with the man and it seemed that the mutual respect between both had been obvious by the way they spoke though Takeshi needed to find a way in and it seemed that Umashi was giving him that much.

“I will have what he is having”

Takeshi turned his attention to the bar tender as he waved his hand in the general direction of Ayumu as he paid little attention to the man but more interested in the drink that was in his glass in those few seconds. He watched as the man poured the drink before allowing his eyes to glance behind him, being found at the bar was not something he prided himself in, but he would need a few drinks to finally get used to the crowd, those he knew full well what was expected of him today.

“Sorry you must forgive me, I have never been to Kumogakure, though it was on my list of places to visit. My name is Uchiha Takeshi, Leaf Sennin. Who do I have the pleasure of meeting this evening?”

Takeshi allowed himself to turn slightly facing towards Kazuki his old Sennin and the man that he stood beside. He allowed himself smile towards Kazuki, it was weird to see the man in this light, but the smile was still welcoming and warm towards his former teacher in those few seconds. As he allowed his head to bow slightly in respect to the man that was being talked to by the Sand Sennin. Takeshi turned his attention back to the man as he raised the glass and allowed the liquid to slide back down his throat as he waited for a reply from the man.

 

[Kairyuu]

Maki looks up as yet another man in a suit enters, wondering what the heck convinced people suits were a good idea. He takes a swig from his drink and sets the empty glass down, requesting another. His eyes, still that bright gold color, study the man before him. A dull throbbing sets off at the back of his head as he does, but he ignores it and silently wonders at who the newcomer was. Umashi begins talking to the man, sparking more interest.

That though was banished as two more walk in, not wearing suits for once. As one of them hands his sword over, Maki looks down at his own weapons with gives a mirthless chuckle. Apparently he got missed. If asked, his response would likely mirror the second man to enter. A hearty “Fuck you” followed by Maki pushing past them. This second man at least looked like a fighter, someone Maki might have enjoyed sparring with if chance allowed.

And then came what he could tell would be an issue. The man announced himself as the Wind Daimyo. As Kenshin did his job by calculating the threat level to Umashi, Maki mirrored Takeshi but chose a different target. As he moves closer, he notes Kazuki mentioning the whose who of Leaf. He mentally notes that the unknown man might just be the Raikage. And apparently the man Kazuki was talking to was important enough to warrant a catch up.

Maki stops a few paces from the Sunagakure entourage and bows at the waist, his head bowing as a sign of respect to the others. Didn’t pay to be an ass to people he might be dealing with as his branch shifted gears towards inter village affairs. ”The name is Tonkon Maki, actually. I apologize for how we met, and do hope I can work to regain face with your village. I’ll be replacing Takeshi as the ANBU Sennin shortly.” He made no effort to extrapolate on that and instead raised from the bow and gave a smile to the group. ”A pleasure to meet the two of you I don’t recognize. I fought one of your own in round one of the tournament. A puppet of a man who seemed to revel in all of the vices he could get his hands on. I must admit he was closer to victory than he thought at the end.” It was definitely closer than Maki liked. He knew it was only his hasty barrier that kept him from bleeding out in that match.


Still he kept a safe distance from them. After all, he still had his weapons on him and was wearing his armor. He could well understand getting too close being seen as a threat so he decided to do what he could to negate the threat without disarming himself.

 

[Kogami Ayumu]

Taking a sip of his freshly poured drink, Ayumu savored it for a moment as he turned his torso slightly to look around the room. Umashi was really the only one he recognized, given that Kumo hadn’t had too much involvement with the other shinobi villages. It seemed the man had spotted him as well as he concluded his current conversation and made for the bar. He ordered a drink and then turned to Ayumu, skipping the greetings and delving into the interesting stuff right away. From their interaction in Kumogakure, Umashi and Ayumu seemed to agree on caring less for formalities when they could be avoided. Knowing this meant their conversations didn’t have to be so tiresome as they could sometimes be between two men in their positions.

The big news tonight was that Umashi was retiring from his position. It seemed the leadership in Konoha had been in flux for a little while now with Umashi disappearing and being replaced by his wife only to come back. Now he was leaving once more, albeit in a much less dramatic fashion. Ayumu couldn’t blame them man, of course, as it seemed he had been playing this game for a long time now. With the birth of his three children, his wife would need the help no doubt.

”Ahh… I wondered if you might when I heard about the kids. Congratulations, by the way,”<i></i> Ayumu said, showing his genuine appreciation for Umashi’s good news. It could be applied to the new children and retirement both, really. Ayumu took another sip of his drink as he watched events unfolding in the room. A couple more people entered, one in particular seemed to be causing a stir with the Sand shinobi.

” Triplets, though. Heh. I can see why you’d retire. That’s going to be a handful. I’ve just got the one, or I might have never gotten into this position myself. But it’ll be worth it for sure,”<i></i> Ayumu commented as he watched the man coming towards the two of them. He seemed mostly interest in talking to Umashi, though from the sound of it he was purposefully trying to be an ass. Presumably this was somebody important if they thought they could be an ass to the Hokage and get away with it, but Ayumu didn’t know the man from the bartender behind the counter. The answer would come in short order as he introduced himself as the Wind Daimyo. He was intercepted by a man named Kenshin, apparently the Hokage’s bodyguard.

Meanwhile, another man had made his way to the bar and asked for a drink. After receiving it, he turned and introduced himself as Takeshi, a Sennin of Konoha. Ayumu had not met this man yet, given that as he said he had never visited Kumogakure and Ayumu himself had never visited Konoha.

”Kogami Ayumu. The Raikage, at your service,”<i></i> Ayumu nodded and raised his glass slightly in greeting. He was glad for the distraction from whatever drama might be occurring surrounding the other man who had just walked up. That was Umashi, or at least his bodyguard's, problem.

”I’ve yet to visit Konoha myself admittedly. I do need to correct that someday soon. It’s hard to get away. I don’t know how Umashi managed it to come to Kumogakure, but as it turned out it seems it was very much worthwhile that he did for both of our villages,”<i></i> Ayumu replied, tilting his head briefly towards the current Hokage whether he was now dealing with the Wind Daimyo or not. He took another sip from his glass and found it empty, signaling for a refill from the bartender.

 

[Seijin]

Recognizing a tense situation when he saw one, though Umashi was rather annoyed that Kenshin had stepped in so soon to defend him. What part of "No Fighting!" had he not understood? Like a rattled tree, the other members of Konoha present also moved into ready potions, Takeshi to speak to the bar tender and to get a bit closer to the Raikage, and Maki . . . who he now knew would be the next ANBU Sennin, to a better vantage point. If Umashi ahdn't been worried about the appearance of things, he would have quickly scolded them, but like a seasoned leader, Umashi merely feigned a blush and shook his head, quickly patting Kenshin on the shoulder and taking another sip of his drink before setting it down and walking around the sometimes lovable but generally muscleheaded brute that somehow managed to be just the sort of guard Umashi didn't want, but often needed. "Peace now!"

Smiling, he first noticed that the Wind Counter Daimyo hadn't extended a hand . . . an understandable but noticeable greeting, or lack thereof. "The pleasure is all mine Lord Shiro. It's such an honor to have you in our midst and here . . . our Daimyo is late!" Shaking his head, Umashi gave a clearly played up, "Tsk, Tsk" as he looked at the watch on his arm and sighed loudly. "Alas, while I'd love to . . . and indeed need to speak to you. I'm late for a most important meeting with the other Kage. You know, shinobi business and what not, but please . . . please enjoy the evening, I'm sure that there are some people just dying to meet you." Stating the fact that he had an exclusive meeting with the other Kage so as to be heard over the general hustle and bustle of the event, Umashi quickly turned to Takeshi and gave the man a look that read "Don't botch this up, just meet and mingle.". As for Ayumu, Umashi grabbed his drink and motioned towards the balcony seating on the upper floor that would allow the various other Kage to talk in semi-privacy. "Please, join me for a more quieter setting. I promise that I won't be long." Hopefully Ayumu wouldn't be too annoyed for the quickly moving scene, even with a good vacation, work would always be a bother. Though he hadn't formally met another other Kage other than the Raikage and Tsuchikage, should any other Kage be around, attendants would quickly inform them of the request to join the other Kage upstairs.

OOC: Attempting to OOCly leave the topic in order to ICly speak to the other Kage (leaving room for the NPC ones) on a second floor balcony overlooking the party below. We'll eventually enter back into this topic but, just to keep things from getting flustercluckish, I'd like to momentarily separate in order to "quickly" discuss things.

 

[Mikaboshi]

"It's not a secret that we're at war but right now we're on neutral turf so we can't be the ones to start the fight. The last thing we need is to be fighting his guys and a gaggle of foreign shinobi. If someone playing for his team throws hands at us then we can do something about them but for now we need to take it easy."

As if summoned by the conversation they were having, the doors swung open and Katsuo beheld the arrival of the Wind Daimyo Ishii Shiro and the merchant lord Hisamura Mako who was his wife. Katsuo recognized both of them from the files that were kept on them in his offices even though he'd never met either of them in person and as he laid eyes on Shiro for the first time in person he felt his right hand reflexively curl into a fist and tighten as he restrained the urge to assault the man. He'd just advised Roku that any Sand shinobi present needed to be on their best behavior and the truth of the matter was that he was barely in control of himself at that moment even though he hid it reasonably well for a man that generally was known for wearing his emotions on his sleeve. There was a subconscious crackle of lightning that coursed across his shoulders as Katsuo pointedly fixed his gaze on Shiro as if to say "do something, I dare you". He knew that the daimyo was skilled enough in the art of politics that there was next to no chance of that happening but still it was hard to tear his needling gaze away from the man that was the head of the military force they were actively at war with.

Thankfully for Katsuo, Kazuki arrived at his side and tore his attention away from the arriving daimyo with pertinent information about the other foreign dignitaries at the gathering. Kazuki was absolutely right that Katsuo had never before left the Wind Country before now and was completely ignorant as to who was who in this room. He was still getting used to the trappings of being the leader of a nation and though he managed to look the part of a military leader well enough he was still considerably inexperienced in that arena. Katsuo followed Kazuki's gaze as the sennin pointed out and described each of a number of foreign shinobi including a handful of Leaf sennin and most importantly who the Hokage and presumably who the Raikage were.

"That'll do for now Kazuki, thanks for the cliff notes on who's who here. In case you didn't catch it, our good friend the Wind Daimyo just showed up so like I told Roku-- make sure you play it cool." He looked from Kazuki to Roku with a nod and then back to Kazuki as he spoke in a low tone. "If you can use some of your connections with any of the Leaf higher ups to get a good word in for us with them, that's a good first step--"

As Katsuo was beginning to give Kazuki some instructions on where he should start mingling, it seemed as though the mingling came to them in the form of the soon-to-be ANBU Sennin Tonton Maki. One of the few individuals in the room that was not dressed for the occasion in the slightest, Katsuo had to admit that it made him partial to Maki almost immediately. A man raised in a more structured and cloistered environment might have found Maki's lack of formal attire and atmosphere of alcohol repulsive or off-putting but to a man like Katsuo who had up until the last several years been a drifter out in the desert he saw more of a potentially kindred spirit rather than someone to be avoided.

"Sunahoshi Katsuo." Katsuo said with a genuine smile, thrusting his hand forward in an offer to shake Maki's hand as a greeting. Conspicuously, Katsuo didn't introduce himself as the 10th Kazekage but that was in large part to the fact that he still struggled to think of himself that way. "I missed your fight unfortunately but I heard it was a good one."

"Excuse me, Mister Kazekage?" Interrupted one of the various attendants, drawing Katsuo's notice to him away from the Leaf Sennin that he'd been shortly conversing with. A shorter man getting up there in years, it seemed very much like he'd been working at this establishment for a reasonably long period of time given how calm and professionally he addressed the head of a foreign nation that he'd not previously spoken to before. "You are invited by the Lord Hokage to meet with the other shinobi kages upstairs on the balcony."

"Thanks, I'll be along in a second. Excuse me." Katsuo smiled at the attendant who gave a short bow and walked away before turning back to Maki and excusing himself to join the other kage but not before turning to his two sennin with a gravely serious expression for one last thought which he expressed to them in a low voice. "If a fight breaks out then we'll consolidate into a team of three and make our way out together but just remember we're here to make friends, not enemies. We can't be allowed to look like the bad guy here. If Ishii Shiro swings another shinobi nation into this conflict on his side, things are going to get a lot worse for us."

And with that, Katsuo turned to depart from Roku, Kazuki and Maki. He didn't spare Ishii Shiro a parting glance even though Katsuo knew that the Wind Daimyo was likely very much aware of his presence as well. The tension was thick even despite the fact that they hadn't interacted at all directly and Katsuo only had to pray that Kazuki and Roku could keep a lid on things. He related to that restless feeling of aggression beyond a shadow of a doubt and would have been much more comfortable if things did erupt into a brawl given that he was much more of a warrior than a statesman but this was not a time for fists and fireballs. Heading towards the stairs to the upstairs balcony, it was time for Katsuo to meet the heads of the other two commonly thought of "Great Shinobi Nations".

 

[Uchiha Takeshi]

Takeshi looked towards the Raikage as he allowed a smile to come to his lips and glanced at the drink he took in a mouthful before letting the liquid our down he enjoyed the liquid and he had no issues with enjoying himself after all this was supposed to be an event that brought people together as he looked to Umashi and Kenshin it seemed the two of them were doing fine covering the conversation though Umashi tried to make a move to exit but Takeshi was here to have a word with the Kazekage and he would have those words as he allowed a small short not towards the man at the bar.

“I will try and catch up with you later, I would love to hear a few stories about your land and what wonders it holds, I have been considering coming to that land and will have to take a trip there myself but excuse me while I go and greet the others that have just arrived.”

Takeshi turned on the seat he was in and hopped down as he allowed himself to take the glass with him. He would be damned if he was going to let this drink go to waste as he walked over slowly to where Maki was standing he allowed himself to look at the three of them for a few seconds as he watched one of the man leave the conversation. It seemed that he was heading with the others, Takeshi knew full well that it must have been the Kagekage. If he was heading to the others he made a note of the face and figure as he allowed a small sigh to come to his lips. He would have to try and catch the man later, as he lingered up to where Maki was standing glancing to the man that would replace him a small smile on his face. He felt a lot easier about everything with the man beside him.

“So Kazuki, are you going to introduce me to your friend? Though I think I missed one of them which is a shame, but I can try and catch up later. So who else have we got here, a couple of faces to be introduced to. It seems though that you already know our Sennin here, he always has……..an interesting way to introduce himself wouldn’t you agree?”

 

[Raizo]

Katsuo would give his remarks, which honestly didn't need to be said, but maybe his current foul mood gave the impression it was best to remind him.

"Yea, yea, I got it--don't fight with people... first."

If they were attacked, however, things were different, and yet, he didn't truly believe that. The forces of the Daimyo always seemed to find a way to make things work in their favor. Before any more thought could be directed towards what dubious plans they might unleash, the devils themselves would appear and most likely start prepping their latest trap.

Appearing within the high rollers room would be the Daimyo and a woman that he had been doing some digging on since he, and his ANBU associates, started to dig into the world of the Soon's Merchants. His eyes would be cast upon the Daimyo, from his memory the first time ever seeing the man, and for one singular second an intense bloodlust would encompass him, as if his body had been wrapped up by a dark and suffocating presence. This sensation, however, would end almost instantaneously as it had appeared. His eyes would grow wide as his wits were quickly regained.

Shit... with this level of shinobi someone, if not all of them, probably picked up on that intent in some form or fashion...

It did not help that his figure, standing above six foot tall and even in his attire very noticeable that he maintained his body to a level that his muscles weren't just for vanity, happened to make him stick out more often than not. Yet, it might just have been that people were shorter in Wind Country. That would be when he would notice the man that had approached them, Tonkon Maki. His expression would once more grow serious as he now attempted to make his microscopic moment of aggression directed towards this newcomer.

"Apologies, seems like I might be too on guard for such a lighthearted evening."

He had hope that this shift in attention would work based on two assumptions 1) Maki would understand that a fighter serving as a guard would probably be more vigilant than normal in this situation, with one of the other Leaf Sennin giving off a similar vibe as he scanned the room, and 2) the relatively unknown nature of Sunans might honestly work in giving them to some impression that they might not be the most friendly of folks at first glance due to spending the past couple of decades underground. Either way, he hoped it would be enough to draw his instinctual reaction towards the Daimyo out of the spotlight and just make it look like he had been caught off guard by Maki.

"Pleasure meeting you, Tonkon Maki."

He would follow up once Katsuo had paused from his own conversation with Maki. Katsuo would then get called away, giving the two of them one last parting reminder, before they would be approached by another man. This man would be familiar with Kazuki which would cause himself to glance over to his fellow Sennin give him a "what the hell have you been up to since you snuck out of the village" look. His attention would once more return to the man.

"I go by Roku."

It was short, it was sweet, it was his name and it was a number. Clearly this was all going as smooth as possible.

MFT - 570 words

 

[Sand Council]

Merchant Lord Hisamura Mako, the Leafed Emerald

Sennin Kazuki made introductions,

"Good day, Kenshin-san, I am Merchant Lord Mako," she would extend a gloved hand towards the young man she was greeting and would grip their hand with a strength befitting a shinobi more than a dignitary. She smiled but the expression did not feel sincere. "After this meeting you must join me for dinner," she announced. She did not leave it as a question or as an option. Her eyes would meet his for perhaps a moment longer than absolutely necessary, she was a beautiful woman that was for certain but there was no magic in those eyes. Perhaps she was a woman that knew what she wanted or she was used to getting whatever she wanted. The distinction was rarely that different and in this case both were true. There was significance in her words. Her grip would loosen and she would wordlessly give him a coy nod. The bodyguard was watching her husband, she could trace his eyes' gaze. She was not going to return to the Diamyo's side, it would prove counterproductive. Rather she simply smiled and walked away. She would find herself at the bar immediately after Takeshi, she would lean over the bar and she would whisper something into the bartender's ear. The details of what she said, grossly irrelevant despite the fog of paranoia.
"A round of the girliest drinks you know."
The barkeep would be compliant and he would hurry himself, a few sweet hard liquors and some fresh squeezed juice. Tall, narrow glasses would line the bar as he busied himself. She was hardly interested in the alcoholic drinks, it was more the theater of it. She would follow Takeshi, not Umashi. The Sennin whom was about to be replaced but was still invited to the Kage Summit. Positions of power, such as Sennin, were life-long positions so the concept of a replacement was interesting indeed. Considering the fact that the present Hokage has just announced that he was retiring, she identified his likely replacement because 'Umashi' as he called himself had just become an irrelevant. Was the guardian just for show or was he simply a fool? It was not worth delving. The Raikage, the soon to be former Hokage and his respective watchdog were all engaged with eachother..

"Sennin Takeshi," his surname was not shared and if it was, she did not remember it. "You seem out of place," she continued tossing a basic lure. "Much like the rest of us peons," she chided referring with a nod towards Umashi attempting to break company with the rest of the party for a private audience. It was rude of course, but it was more than rude utterly foolish. "You remind me of my husband when he was young," she lied. It was simply an excuse, an excuse for her to beckon him to follow her. She would gesture towards the Wind Diamyo and motion that she desired an escort. "Darling," she would call to Diamyo Ishii if he came willingly this would be a calm and quiet greeting as they entered proximity. If not, it would be louder as she summoned him to come to her. they had an unspoken bond, she knew better than to request him without having a reason and conversely the same would be true of them. Their relationship is one primarily of business with a thread of pleasure. "He is simply the spitting image," she smiled as she took a half step away from the future leader. "Of you."

The Diamyo would hide his confusion and befuddlement well. She was far too young to know the future King as a young man, she was hardly a consideration of the womb in his physical prime.

===========

Diamyo Ishii Shiro

Katsuo, the 'Son of the One King' at least that is what Sunagakure called him, the final Soverign state within all of Wind Country. The Lords bowed and scraped. The nomads hid. Those who fought him, died. What would the heir of Primus do -- bow of his own accord or be cut down. The later was actually preferable, his blood god demanded tribute and the ruby fluid of this regal line would... He shuddered with excitement. "Sunahoshi Kasuo, the tenth Kazekage... prodigal heir to the diamond throne and progeny of the line of Primus," the Diamyo announced listing the Kazekage's credentials as if he had a card in front of him to list them all. "A very important man," he announced with a tone of humor in his voice. It was ironic that they let this child rule them all. Yes, physically Katsuo was far from a young man despite his physical appearance. The Diamyo knew the pureblood line well, he knew every line that came from the first men. Katsuo was a child because he was not a leader. He might have been the intended leader but it did not mean he should lead. It did not mean he was built to lead. He was a rascal. A street rat placed in a gentleman's cloth. He would be happier chasing a sandstrider than sitting in his office. He would be better suited exterminating the vermin in his basement than engaging in this meeting. He was not worthy.

"You look troubled," he addressed the Kazekage with feigned sympathy. "I would not be too nervous here... among your supposed peers." He was not supposed to be here, the Diamyo that is. If he was willing to comply with the Otokage's demands -- he was not. The Otokage was a needy boy across this narrow stretch of sea with an uncanny interest in his country. It had benefited the Diamyo until this point of course, their relationship and the things he had learned... The unnaturally long life he has lived. There was little need to heed the Otokage's authority, especially on trivial matters such as these.

The Hokage was brushing them off, announcing that the Kage's would meet in private. Of course they would meet in private.

"I will try to not take offense," Shiro replied as Umashi requested the party to split. Were they really leaving some of their most trusted allies alone? Alone with him?

His wife would call out to him. She had found someone. Well, something.