Orochi Estate, Ouroboros compound

A masked shinobi, dressed in an entire black version of the regular Konoha ANBU division's attire, kneeled in front of one of the land of fire's most powerful and influential personalities, if not THE most.

Master, the new Hokage has been appointed, should we take action?" The shinobi asked diligently to a man sitting behind a desk, wearing a stylish black silk kimono, with a purple haori and a purple sash around his waist.

He did not answer directly, with his gloved fingers tapping softly on the black and silver mask which covered his face, as if to reconcile with many of the thoughts and ideas bubbling inside his genius mind, only to end his moment of silence with a sigh.

I shall first see if this Hokage follows up on his predecessor's plans," The man behind the desk spoke rather cold, yet calmly. "Prepare a team and remain on stand by, I will notify you if it is necessary to eliminate this Hokage."

The masked shinobi simply nodded, bowing his head once more before he vanished from sight, leaving the man alone behind his desk. With that subordonate gone, Enaka took the mask from his face and placed it inside one of the drawers of his desk, lockingit with a tiny silver key, which he always wore hidden within the wide sleeves of his kimono as a bracelet.

First that White Star brat, then that Sarutobi swordsman and now that idiot of a Daimyo decides to elect that failure of a Senju as a hokage?" Enaka hissed, while grabbing a pen and some of the watermarked paper of his own Ouroboros clan. "Surely that…Sousetsu will be more than capable of being a hokage, he'd been the contender against Mitsuhide Uzumaki after all, but that makes it more than obvious that he will most likely not be following Mitsuhide's plans and probably will act as a more benevolent, pacifistic hokage."

Beginning to write his letter, Enaka could only wish for this hokage to be as compliant and interesting as Uzumaki mitsuhide and Sarutobi Mitsuo, who both had an interesting vision, one which was comparable with his own.

Letter to Sousetsu:

Now that the letter was written, he only had to send a courier to deliver it at the Senju compound, for Enaka knew that this knewly elected Hokage would still have to settlein his new role and would thus probably choose to remain among his own for the meantime.

Drops of water reached the earth dampening each small portion it came into contact. It was not raining, in fact it was sweat. Heavy panting came from the Senju as he held his body up in the air with his hands. Thirty minutes had already passed and his body had not moved since. His teeth began to grind and the blood was already flooding his head, making it seem like his face was flushed. His cloth headband was tied tightly around his forehead with the Senju insignia centered. His sleeveless black jumpsuit and bandaged wrists were there to complete the attire. From his upside down perspective he noticed a courier leaving a note before taking off into the wind once more. With a short inhale, Sousetsu pushed off the earth with his hands and landed to his feet before proceeding to retrieve the letter. The blood took its time to leave his head but his thoughts were still his own. He opened the letter:

'Honoured Hokage,

It is my duty as member of the advisory council to support you in your daily duties and give you advice on the stately matters of our praised Village of the Leaf.

It is therefore that I request a moment of your time to discuss your plans for the future of Konoha, as well as to see if you are willing to follow the same path as your predecessor Uzumaki Mitsuhide.

If possible, I will be meeting you at your office at noon for some tea.

Most Honorable greetings,

Orochi Enaka'

His face scanned the letter with intensity as this important matter had came to his attention. An adviser was customary to have given his late status, but he could not help but wonder what advice would be given that he would not already know. It helped him think of what he was to do as the current Hokage, what was the changes that he would make? What would he leave behind? He trusted in his morals as they were fitting. He was always told to be a stoic and pragmatic individual. His mind was his own. He was renowned for his logic thinking, a tactician on the battlefield. With a quick stretch he then made his way inside to prepare himself with a warm shower and a change of clothes that were identical to the attire that he already wore.

His arms glided through the sleeves of his new robe. A white coat with blue decal as opposed to the Hokage's usual fire red. The hat remained the same however but was placed on the right side of his waist rather than wearing it. He left his armour to reside in his home but his blade accompanied him as it lay diagonally across his lower back, almost concealed. Another tightening of the cloth headband made sure he was ready for the audience he was about to greet.

Before long, he stood facing the window out to the leaf village from the Hokage's office. The figures danced under the sun which kissed their skin, and the blue sky reflected the ocean. Few clouds were spotted making this day almost as clear his mind. He was calm, collected, and composed.

"Here is the file you requested, Sousetsu-Sama..." his assistant announced.

He turned and bowed for his gratitude before taking it into his own grasp. Looking on the cover he found the name, 'Orochi Enaka' and opened to find the information he needed.

'Fourty-three years of age. Ex Anbu, now Jounin...'

A profile picture accompanied the information given. Black hair and very dark eyes to compliment a somewhat handsome man for his age. His eyes scanned the page as he found more information and taking in the data, his skills, specialties, elements. He turned to the assistant and handed her the file. "Thank you. Please wait for his arrival and guide him in. We will be having tea." he gave the orders in a kind yet stoic voice to which they exchanged bows once more. He was formal to his subordinates, but he did not think of them as such. They were his equals, the people who had helped him achieve his goal in life. It was only right to repay them with kindness.

He turned to face the window once again before noticing the individual in question approaching the front entrance of the building that he watched from. It was almost time. He placed the Hokage hat on the desk and his blade rested by his chair. The coat flailed which each movement he had made. The blue design was truly a treat to look at, a change of what was custom. The Senju however, wanted to show his own colours.

Twice in his life did the chance to become hokage arrive, twice had the daimyo decided not to grant thise title to Enaka. This was not because he lacked the skills to be a hokage, it was more like he was maybe somewhat too skilled. In the fifteen years after his last appeal to become a hokage, the Ouroboros clan regent had done the impossible, ensuring himself a position in the village which made him practically the equal of the Hokage.

In the passed years, he had secretly created the Black ANBU, consisting out of former members and active members of the ANBU and even employing non-ANBU konoha shinobi in this organization. He had reformed the ties between the Orochi and the Hebi family, which made up the Ouroboros clan, creating a strong personal guard out of the Hebi family. His spynetwork had grown exponentially when he had decided to turn his attention towards missing nin and criminal organizations outside of the hi no kuni's borders.

The cherry on the cake was his personal reformation of the Central Intelligence Division, which as the mainstay in gathering intel and information for Konoha and overseeing the ANBU's actions, became the spearpoint of his own plans and prospects. Enaka had it all, except that wretched title of Hokage.

He had found a compatible mind in both Uzumaki Mitsuhide and Sarutobi Mitsuo, who both desired to walk a similar path to that of Enaka, however, he did not see Senju Sousetsu do the same. He was there when the White Star and the Blue Beast confronted eachother in front of the Daimyo, he had seen the strengths of this man who could now call himself Hokage and he had seen that if it was necessary, he would have to eliminate this man before his grip on the village would become greater than his own.

Dressed in his black kimono with purple linings, a purple sash and a purple haori with the sign of his Ouroboros clan embroided in silver on the back, Enaka arrived at the administration building, waving away any help with directions from those pesky assistants, who should've known very well that Enaka knew practically every nook and cranny the building had to offer, yet when passing the counter, he asked the young shinobi behind it if he could send someone with some Ceylon tea to the Hokage's office, after all, Ceylon was a traditional tea, his personal favorite, given his love for ancient traditions.

Arriving at the office, the Ouroboros regent simply knocked on the door twice, while entering the office with his eyes squinted and a broad smile on his face; his everyday mask for those who did not understand the darkness that waited behind that smile. "A good day, Sousetsu-kun…or should it be more fitting to call you Hokage-sama now. I must say it was to be expected to see you become hokage after the White Star's dissapearance."

Two thuds at the door drew the Senju's attention as the man known as Orochi Enaka entered. His attire of a black kimono accompanied by a purple sash and haori gave him a respectable appearance, one to Sousetsu's liking. A broad smile was worn on the visitor before his words escaped his mouth.

"A good day, Sousetsu-kun…or should it be more fitting to call you Hokage-sama now. I must say it was to be expected to see you become Hokage after the White Star's disappearance."

Sousetsu glanced at his right shoulder where the sun seemed to creep over and onto the floor before him. It was a good day in terms of the weather, but what of the propositions that was in store for him provided by this adviser? Would they be to his liking? Or would they truly benefit the village? He then addressed his title as 'kun' or 'Hokage-Sama,' something that he had not thought about before this moment. It was formal to address him as the Hokage but it was still a simple title while Sousetsu was his name. He was then complimented as his stature came to no surprise for the Ouroboros clan member, which did leave Sousetsu to gift him a small grin as he finished. The White Star's disappearance had not yet settled into his mind, he never had a chance to perceive this matter now that it was mentioned.

"You may address me as you wish..." he reassured his guest as he held onto his grin.

He wondered breifly about what had happened to Mitsuhide Uzumaki. The mans will who made Sousetsu forfeit the title of Hokage was truly inspiring. He wished to help others, expand the nations reputation for its benevolence and create bonds with the neighbouring countries. It was an incredible feature for a man to achieve, but like Sousetsu predicted, they were not ready for such a time as of yet. Sousetsu, the Azure Beast, fought to fortify the Leaf village's strength, its supplies, caring for his own people before any others. Some may call this jealousy, but like a father to his child he only wanted what was best for them. He had to assure their own safety and other matters before setting out to help another. It was a rational, pragmatic and logic led thought and one he did he not regret.

It was now Sousetsu's time. A time he long sought for in his life as shinobi. It started as a dream and he made it a reality. His unique style in combat bested many with his strategic mind and crushing techniques. But still, in the back of his mind he was still too weak. His abilities could be honed to an even greater skill, he had the potential after all. He had seen the typical life span of the past Hokage's. He watched and served under five separate Hokage's who all had a different belief, none similar to his. His trusts that his time would reign supreme over the previous but there are still many possibilities and greater risks at where he now stood. Atop of a hill, waiting to be pushed off or even topple over with a simple mistake.

"I thank you..." he managed to blurt out in the midst of his thoughts.

"Please, have a seat." he spoke as his hand gestured towards the chair.

Before long, his assistant arrived with tea and placed the tray with its contents on the desk before pouring two cups for the two individuals and serving them accordingly. With a nod and another smile, Sousetsu thanked the assistant once more. He returned to his seat behind the desk and folded his arms, with his back straight and his head tilting forward he thought once more. He looked at the tea, the air bubbles slowly popping away before the brew settled. The steam continued to ascend into the air to which he followed before meeting the eyes of Enaka.

"Advice on stately matters. Discuss plans for the future of Konoha..." Sousetsu began as looked at the man before him and his tea, darting back and fourth.

"So... Let's discuss." he spoke in another stoic tone. His face had lost its grin. He knew politics better than most. He knew the safest courses of actions, the loopholes, the greed. In the end, his voice was the one that most mattered. His jaw locked on and off, his throat swallowed deeply, his eyes pierced. He did not want to hear certain words. How careful was this adviser?

"Well, seeing as you are the hokage after all, I will adress you accordingly as Hokage-sama," Enaka said with that very same smile plastered on his face, looking at the door when the assistant had finally decided to bring the tea and he had to remark that the assistant had indeed brought him the ceylon tea as requested. "Ah, civil people never set aside a decent cup of tea."

Taking a seat just as the new hokage had offered, the former ANBU captain sat down elegantly, crossing his legs, while gently blowing away the steam of his cup of tea before taking a decidated sip of the traditional drink. His eyes gave away not a single thought, no single hint of emotion, cleanly hidden behind the mask of a friendly and servitude smile.

"You really throw things at the table fast, hokage-sama," The man chuckled softly, almost sounding like a snake slithering up someone's throat, waiting for the precise moment to coil around it and crush the poor victim's throat. "Ah well, I dont think I have to explain to an honorable member of the Senju clan that there are ethics in play here. First and foremost let me lay out the plans and prospects which have been carried by two great men of Konoha, who have sadly laid down their power for whatever reason. If so, these plans have fruitation even before their time, but every time they were supposed to execute these plans, something thwarted all efforts."

As expected from a well-versed man as Enaka, it was custom to make sure the opposite party in a discussion would remain interested in the actual core of the conversation, a way to make sure this happened, was not to spoil the very subject before having gained the opposite party's complete attention. Again with a moment of silence, the elegant regent of the Ouroboros clan took a sip from his tea, revealing nothing with his eyes or any other body part. His entire bodylanguage showed one single thing: control.

"Now then, you might ask yourself: What plans?" Orochi Enaka chuckled, while placing his cup of tea back on its plate. "And the answer is simple: the plans which would write down the future of the shinobi world for all eternity. Now then, are you interested in knowing the reality of the world as it is and what solution the White Star had been concocting for the current situation of our world?"

A soft chuckle at the remark Sousetsu engaged the man with brushed off the Senju, almost falling on deaf ears. He wanted to hear what this man had to offer, be it for better or for worse. His curiosity was getting the better of him at this point in time. Since an early age, Sousetsu knew of the politicians greed for their own benefits in decisions being made regardless of the country, and he wished to stop this. This was merely a chance to reconsider his options, a reassurance of what politics were made of. And so, Enaka spoke:

"Ah well, I don't think I have to explain to an honorable member of the Senju clan that there are ethics in play here..." this statement was true, just as he expected. Sousetsu unfolded his arms and reached for his tea, lifting it up to his lips and as they softly connected he caught its scent. Warm and welcoming the tea then made its way into his mouth and down his throat in small quantity followed by a clearing of his through.

"First and foremost let me lay out the plans and prospects which have been carried by two great men of Konoha, who have sadly laid down their power for whatever reason. If so, these plans have fruitation even before their time, but every time they were supposed to execute these plans, something thwarted all efforts."

The men he was referring to was of course Mitsuhide, Konaha's 'White Star', and Mitsuo, the 'Sword Saint.' They were indeed fine shinobi as well as great friends to Sousetsu despite their beliefs. He had his attention to the full. Speaking of his friends took careful consideration in choice of words, just the Senju's piercing eyes could tell anyone that. He sipped at his tea once more and once finished his jaw clenched once again. Enaka spoke with a rhetorical question as his cup reached the plate that it arrived on. What plans indeed?

He spoke of plans to write the future of Konaha for history books to come. His mind was set into the clockwork that Sousetsu was known for as the next words begun to tread waters.

"Now then, are you interested in knowing the reality of the world as it is and what solution the White Star had been concocting for the current situation of our world?"

His head turned to the side before looking back at Enaka, his mind gathering the data of the White Star. He stood up from his chair and turned to the window behind him. His coat with blue decal in full view which emblazoned the words 'Seventeenth Hokage' down the centre.

"The reality is that this world possesses too much hate. It thrives on it." he began as his fists clenched.

"You speak of Mitsuhide as if he had the solution. The only true solution..." he turned with a stern face to meet Enaka's.

"I knew Mitsuhide. We discussed our ideals. We crossed blades and traded blows. You know of our meeting and how we fought for the title of Hokage. We were two different people, with two different visions. I know what was he was planning. That fight told me all I needed to know..." his rant slowly raised his voice over time. He approached the desk and lay both hands down firmly upon it. The sun shone upon his back and radiated his very hue to a warmer colour. His voice returned to normal as he let out a small sigh.

"Mitsuhide had a strong vision of helping others. His will was his strength. He wanted to let the Village Hidden in the Leaves to be a name held in high regards and I don't see that luxury as of yet. The village can't afford to expand anytime soon. Numbers are dwindling, ninja are defecting and there are still other pressing matters within the village to be taken care of first. We must look after our own before any others and do not tell me otherwise. Don't lie to yourself. And certainly not to me."

His eyes were beginning to strain. With a deep inhale and with closed eyes he stood upright before turning to look outside. "It's peaceful for now. Can we not embrace that?" he spoke rather softly compared to his original tone, scanning the streets to see the figures once more as they walked to their respective destinations. They were safe and for this moment, they had not a care in the world.

The man who had once been part of the ANBU, a part of konoha's shadow if not its embodiment, Enaka was quick to notice the little things, the tiny changes in people that betrayed their emotions, their faults and imperfections, so did he yet again, as he heard Sousetsu launch his own resolution, his own vision on things that have been, that were and that were yet to come. However, despite the slight changes that betrayed the hatred, the anger that dwelled within the seventeenth Hokage, the older man of the two gave not a single reaction whatsoever, only to nod his head slightly when Sousetsu had finished with a question.

"Peaceful, hmm?" The Ouroboros clan regent hummed softly, picking his cup from its plate and taking a tiny sip of his tea before placing it back and look straight into Sousetsu's eyes. This time though, his face no longer had a smile, no longer making efforts to hide the true nature of Orochi Enaka. His eyes, black as the night and colder than ice peered into the depths of the hokage's soul, while his own soul only resembled a dark void, an endless abyss. "peaceful…if that were to be true, if only that was reality, I would've been content."

The man remembered the very moment on which it was decided that Uzumaki Mitsuhide would be Hokage, the moment he had found the very person who had seen the world in the same way as he did and Sarutobi Mitsuo, the man who had experienced the same shadow, the same darkness that crept through the night. This Sousetsu however, seemed to much of a pacifistic man to understand the dire undercurrents of the stream of time.

"let's talk about that if you so wish for it," Enaka said calmly, waving his hand in front of his face for a bit, almost as if he was trying to remove his stern expression, even succeeding in it, as yet again he had adorned his face with a warm and friendly smile. "Konoha's internal situation is, to say the least abominable. There are indeed more defections and more betrayals compared to let's say a decade ago. However, this is because Konoha has become weak and no longer has any merit for the strong of will and heart, not as it used to be in the past. Mitsuhide's intention was just, he merely wanted to strengthen konoha and to share that strength with the other villages, but when we isolate ourselves, we would deny ourselves the strength we deserve, the strength we need."

Slowly, the man's hand went upwards, inside his haori, slowly enough to avoid raising suspicion from any ANBU members keeping tabs on their newly elected hokage, as well as to ensure the hokage that no weapon was somewhere within his clothing. Yet, as his hand went back from the haori, it contained a small black envelope with a strange silver snake printed on it.

"This is one of the many reports I have gathered during the past weeks, Hokage-sama," That last word was almost hissed out as if he wanted to get rid of the taste of that single honorific as soon as possible. "So far, both Iwagakure and Kirigakure have been strengthening themselves, arming themselves to warlike proportions. Not to mention the amount of foreign shinobi that have been entering the land of fire from these two villages, I think strengthening ourselves just for the purpose of defending ourselves would only make us weak and vulnerable. The choice is simple: show konoha's power or suffer the consequences of our own frailty."

The counter argument did hold truth in its words but the current Hokage felt otherwise. There was poison laced on the edges of Enaka's tongue that Sousetsu couldn't shake. There was always a chance through reasoning. Pens were mightier than swords in the Senju's eyes. It was true that Sousetsu could be seen as a pacifist but that was who he was. Every battle he came across, he always gave the option of fleeing towards his opponent. Even to the late great Hao, who was outmatched, was given the choice to leave and was none the wiser to take the opportunity which ultimately led to his demise. His mind raced collecting data to construct reasonable solutions that were possible.

He reflected that Enaka agreed with him that the ninja were defecting and leaving on their own accord, there was no denying that. Mitsuhide wanted to expand, just as he had thought, but he could not fulfill that desire. Enaka reached into his clothing slowly which Sousetsu followed closely. A bold move in the Hokage office to assault him, but he knew this was not the case. A dark envelope appeared with an insignia of a snake. He shifted his eyes back and fourth to the man and his letter as its presence was explained.

""So far, both Iwagakure and Kirigakure have been strengthening themselves, arming themselves to warlike proportions. Not to mention the amount of foreign shinobi that have been entering the land of fire from these two villages, I think strengthening ourselves just for the purpose of defending ourselves would only make us weak and vulnerable. The choice is simple: show konoha's power or suffer the consequences of our own frailty."

Sousetsu closed his eyes once more and sighed. He sat back into his seat with his hand stroking his chin briefly.

'Two villages may be preparing for war...' he thought. The leaf could be unaffected by this, or they could be targeted. They could even just be caught in the middle. He looked back up to his new found adviser and strengthened his jaw once again.

"If this was true, and we were confirmed to be under threat... With our numbers I would advise to attack at the closing of the battle, hide in the shadows and strike to reap the benefits..." he informed the man before him of his strategic prowess. If there were two noticeably large armies confronting each other, all they had to do was enter when their numbers were low. With fresh troops there was no question of the victor. But this was no his way.

"I propose we form a one year alliance with each side. Call it a gesture of good will that I may have time to settle as the new Hokage. We may exchange goods in the meantime. They need not know of our frailty. This is our safest route of progression. Collecting few of the spoils of war from each side despite whichever wins."

His arms crossed once again. All he could think of was the causalities that may appear on their doorstep. As a neutral party, would the Leaf Village be to blame on the losing side? Who was to say that shinobi of the Konhagakure would kill any injured without his consent either? There were too many variables that began clouding his mind. His judgement beginning to show a misty path.

"What would you propose?" he finally asked. Decisions were to be discussed. He needed the full motives and beneficial values that Enaka had to offer. He lifted his tea and sipped at it and as the warm water rushed down his throat, he felt completely serene once more.

Enaka listened carefully when Sousetsu seemed to reach a deduction on what Konoha had to do when a war would ensue and engulf the entire shinobi world, yet at the same time he showed that same warm almost apologetic smile to seemingly ease the tension, for it was apparent that where Mitsuo knew Enaka was far more than the ANBU reports would ever depict, that this new hokage had no such idea or information, perhaps this was something to be used in his own favor on a later time.

"A well balanced and well thought proposal, Lord Hokage," Enaka said calmly, while drinking the remaining tea in his cup and showing a rather content smile. "Ofcourse if we were to make such alliances, we'll need to send someone of high ranking status in the village, someone who sways power and thus also holds a great deal of value to both other villages. If we were to send a party of regular special jounin or a few regular jounin, these requests may fall to deaf ears."

It seemed as if Enaka was thinking about who they could possibly send, placing the tips of his fingers against his temples, performing small circular movements with them, as if to stimulate the thought processing of his impressive mind.

"What about that cousin of yours, Hokage-sama?" The Ouroroboros regent suddenly denoted, slightly grinning on a sly manner. If his information was correct, this woman he had in mind had been noticed as a person very close to the new hokage, certainly after his return to Konoha after his long absence. "What was her name again…Chisaki, Senju Chisaki if I'm not mistaken. She's head of the medical division, a compassionate and inspiring figure of konoha and despite her rank, she's more valuable to our village than most jounin. Would she be well enough for this task?"

Getting Chisaki to move to the other villages would've been an interesting bonus, for it only took a little nudge to turn this pacifist Hokage into a warlike beast. It was at these times that Enaka was glad that he had spend his entire retirement on the creation of his spy network, it had already been used to make people, lots of people disappear and one more wouldn't really matter.

"Ofcourse, if there would be an underlying reason as to why she would be not so qualified, I am more than willing to take this responsibility on myself," The advisor almost laughed, but viciously and in such a way that there was no mistake…he had the hokage right where he wanted him. "you could always go by yourself ofcourse, but that would be taking risks, certainly if the villages of Kiri and Iwa are in no way planning to create a formal alliance with us."

"What was her name again…Chisaki, Senju..."

Sousetsu's eyes widened slightly. His thoughts raced from the very thought of sending her to another village unaccompanied would not bode well for her well-being. He was not a direct relative of this particular Senju though, but she was head of the medical corps. For that reason alone, she would not be deemed fit for this task as her services needed to remain here. His hand wandered to his chin, rubbing against it slightly. His mind trying to clear the clouds in search of an answer.

"I am more than willing to take this responsibility on myself," the man spoke once more.

Was this a viable option? A man he had just met and an adviser at that. He scanned through the depths of memories in search of a more viable option with a person he could trust, but none came to mind. This task was important. It could not be tampered with as the message must be clear and within reason. He eyes refused to blink as he stared at the cup of tea before him, the steam becoming faint.

"you could always go by yourself of course, but that would be taking risks, certainly if the villages of Kiri and Iwa are in no way planning to create a formal alliance with us."

It was true. His place was here. He needed to continue his work with less hassle but the words coming from the Hokage himself would be the highest of requests, almost assuring the deal better than most. His eyes closed as the tea made its way to his soft lips once again. The remains streamed down his throat with a warm sensation before swallowing the contents and clenching his jaw once more.

"Send messenger birds... he spoke calmly.

"The Country of fire is directly in the centre between both villages."

He opened the drawer to his left side and pulled out a map and rolled open its contents before placing it before the two.

World Map:

"Have both parties come to us. I will formally request their audience. This is neutral ground in the meantime so there will be no quarrel." he spoke with great assurance.

He pushed the map slightly towards Enaka. His eyes wandered elsewhere. Sending Chisaki? His emotions must leave him when it came to matters like this but he already wondered what it was like in the war of 'Seven Bells.' She was there, while he was not. She made it back alive but if Sousetsu was there what would have been the outcome? Would the war have ended sooner? Less casualties? Or would his actions bring further pain to the allied forces. His own absence to find the infamous crystal user seemed to better him. He helped many during his travels but it was like the crystal user never existed. No sightings, no information, no clues to his whereabouts. Was his journey all for naught? No. He had many stories now that he could tell for days on end. The people who made him the man he was now. Meeting Chisaki upon his return was something he had not anticipated but he did not question that. It was the only thing he had never questioned.

He looked at the man before him up and down before standing up once more and crossing his arms, a rather infamous stance by the Senju. "Any objections?" he asked with another stern look.

Messenger birds, the very idea did not even manage to cross Enaka mind, for that would've been a rather dangerous opposition to his original plans. It seemed that this Hokage was much smarter and much shrewder than he had accounted for, or he was just good in finding solutions, but the Ouroboros Regent wouldn't allow such a youngster to beat him in his own game of wits.

"Sure we could do such a thing," The advisor suddenly laughed, waving with his hand in the air, as if to get rid of some annoying fly, yet in this case, the proverbial fly was Sousetsu's proposal. "Let's think a bit more clearly here. First of all, messenger birds would have no effect, they can be intercepted and they do not give the same strong signal as a detachment of shinobi would give. The idea of bringing the Tsuchikage and the Mizukage to our village is practically as dangerous as it is foolish. Even if we say this is neutral ground, who says they would respect such a thing? Some times I wonder why we even have a history if not a single person seems to learn from it."

His hand fell upon the map, his index finger pointing at the small country nudged between the land of fire, wind and earth: the country of rain. This country used to be the center stage of the many great shinobi wars that ravaged the earth, tearing the small country assunder and pushing its people to the brink of extinction. They had recuperated over time, but there were still signs of the old legislations that were purely defensive after trying the idea of acting as neutral ground.

"If we would assume the position as neutral ground, we exactly do two things, lord Hokage," Enaka said rather stern, not even acting as if he was intimidated by the hokage's actions of earlier. "First and foremost we lose control on the situation and become dependant on the good grace of those two villages and second we show ourselves as weakminded individuals, more willing to be trampled, rather than using our strength as a bargaining chip."

Taking a seat again, leaning his head a bit backwards, while stroking his hair with his right hand, Enaka sighed deeply, as if he had gotten to the limits of his mind, though as usual this was nothing else than another part of his game.

"I might have a solution for this matter," The man suddenly said, leaning forward again and looking the Hokage straight in the eyes. "We select a group of well sorted individuals, which can aid me when I go to Iwagakure and Kirigakure to discuss the matters at hand. These need not to be anything more than chuunin or special jounin and no more than two or three. If necessary, I could provide with a list of possible candidates for this mission, if you want?"

Words flowed through the man with a tongue laced with truth yet an unnerving sensation. His ideas were thrown back back at him, almost made a mockery of. What was this man's true intention? Why did he want to be involved with a matter of such great importance? Surely a man of his stature, an adviser, would lay back in the shadows. He was a merely a voice to Hokage, but he seemed more interested in having his own way.  

"Sometimes I wonder why we even have a history if not a single person seems to learn from it."

These words were similar to Sousetsu's own. 'If we refuse to study history, then we are bound to repeat the past.' Would the past be repeated? Would he let a threat into the village unknowingly? The messenger birds were a safe option, little information would be given on the notes they carried. A simple invitation. But of course, maybe wandering ninja, ronin, would find a way to pass them by. It was a risk factor as he thought further into it.

Enaka continued. "First and foremost we lose control on the situation and become dependent on the good grace of those two villages and second we show ourselves as weak-minded individuals, more willing to be trampled, rather than using our strength as a bargaining chip."

Sousetsu did nothing but glare. He did not believe these words. The Leaf village still had many skilled shinobi within their ranks. To lose control was not an option, even if he had to go to the front lines himself. The Leaf Village would stay under his protection no matter what cost.

He then spoke of a solution of his own. Allow him and a selected group of shinobi to aid him in his travels to address the matter personally. A list for the cell was waiting to be heard and of course, his curiosity was willing to be fed once more.

He paced slightly, not moving very far from his initial position. His thoughts gathering as he glanced back and fourth to the map, then to Enaka and then to his Hokage hat which lay on the desk before them. The map caught his attention more so than the others.

"If I recall correctly, the Leaf assisted the Hidden Mist with 'Seven Bells.' I believe they will comply with our proposal. A messenger bird is safe on the route as it overseas. It will not be seen as a threat within the Mist Village." he spoke clearly and with authority.

His mind was made up. He had the solutions. He just needed to be sure who was in this cell that Enaka was organizing.

"Your squad will need to only go to Iwagakure. This matter must be addressed with haste. Who would you have accompany you?" he confronted.

His words were true. Having the small cell travel from one side to the other would cost time which he did not have. A threat such as a war that could break out at any moment was one that needed to be treated delicately and with care. Could he trust this man before him? Could he trust the squad that he would compose? The choices were growing limited as the conversation continued. The matter would soon be dealt with however.

At first it seemed as if the hokage would snap and launch himself at Enaka, but seemingly the man had more self control than the Ouroboros regent would've credited to the man, even though the younger man's glare could've frozen any other in their place. Enaka however responded by simply closing his eyes and sighing deeply, as if to respond to the hokage's anger with his own impervious demeanor.

"Going to Iwagakure should not prove to be difficult for myself," The man said with a calm and smooth tone of voice, still showing his immovable and unshakable mind, as if nothing could make him flinch. "The problems with Seven Bells in Kirigakure have already been smoothly handled and rebutted by their Mizukage, which she attests with her excessive growth in actual military power and outward relationships."

As if he had to think about something, the man leaned his head a bit backwards, thinking about the question he was asked by Senju Sousetsu, about who he would take with him to Iwa. At first he had thought about his niece Risu, but he could better keep that meddlesome element as far from his organization and his plans as possible, so that left him with the choice of those who had sworn loyalty to him, though the ordinary members of his organization wouldn't be enough to have full control over every situation if needed. This made him decide that his two most trusted lieutenants could do the trick, while he could order some other men to keep an eye on Kyohei in the meantime.

"About the team, I can give you two names," Enaka replied to the Hokage's final question. "I'd like Itsukuchi Hataro and Uzumaki Myra to accompany me, if you wish to ad a third, you can do so, but I do have to say that I trust these two with my life and I can't guarantee or broker for the lives of people that could jeopardize this mission…no offense ofcourse Hokage-sama."

"I'd like Itsukuchi Hataro and Uzumaki Myra to accompany me, if you wish to add a third, you can do so, but I do have to say that I trust these two with my life and I can't guarantee or broker for the lives of people that could jeopardize this mission…no offense of course, Hokage-sama."

Sousetsu's arms crossed once again. His head tilted forward, his eyes now closed as his mind searched for the names to match faces but none could be found.  He had not heard of these men in particular which only made the Senju grow weary of the people he was entrusting to this task. Perhaps it was wise to send one of his own. Of course this remark on jeopardizing the mission did feel like a jab. He thought through the roster of the Konaha shinobi. Chisaki was out of the question. He had a rather strict policy on allowing close relatives to aid those in a mission, Orochi Risu could not be a choice either. Emotions could best all who entered a battle, cloud judgement caused even more strife.

Maybe, the medic 'Chi,' an old student of Sousetsu's could suffice? Having read through Enaka's files he deemed it unnecessary as he was a proficient medic in the field also. It could not be helped. An old aquaintance who accompanied the past Hokage's seemed to be the most logical choice, and a well versed scout in his field thanks to his clan's unique ability.

"You will take Rinshi Hyūga." he spoke as his head remained tilted with eyes closed as he collected the data that came together like a refined puzzle.

"A reliable scout on his way to becoming Jounin." he assured the man opposite him.

He let out a soft sigh. No offense? Perhaps this was a matter to be addressed with immediately. He wore a stern face once more as he looked back up to the ex-anbu member. His eyes transfixed onto his.

"As for your remark on the ninja here, you can't guarantee their safety? May I have to remind you that it is the Leaf's higher ranking shinobi who ensure the safety of those younger and less experienced than themselves?"

He leaned forward slightly, his hands firmly on the table as he kept the glare into his eyes. They would not shift, nor would they blink. A delicate matter had arose from a simple misplacement of words which Sousetsu did not take too kindly to.

"Rinshi Hyūga will come to no harm. If he did, I'm sure an experienced medic like yourself would tend to his wounds, correct? As leader of this cell, his mistakes will reflect upon your own. I'm sure an ex-Anbu member such as yourself could understand that..." his voice stoically assured him. Sousetsu knew that the Anbu usually worked in teams formed to the requirements of the mission, ensuring maximum success, and that age, gender, background, or previous rank bore no weight in this decision. His words spoke strongly, hopefully planting themselves in the back of Enaka's mind. Should anything happen to Rinshi, a price would surely be paid.

For the first time in the entire conversation, Enaka had shown something from within himself, something different than the fake smiles, the dark look in his eyes and the calmness of his voice, as this time, his eyes widened, even for just an instant, they showed the surprise that perhaps not many people had seen in the ouroboros' regent's eyes.

"If that is your wish, I shall comply, Hokage-sama," The man sighed after regaining composure, making a motion with his left hand as if he was trying to wave away some pesky insect flying around. "If you wish to see this young man safe and sound, I shall keep him out of harm's way even at the cost of my own life if necessary. Do mind that what you make me promise now might heavily influence your standing with the council."

These last words were no idle threat, for if the hokage lost the grace of the council, he'd also lose the faith of the Daimyo, something which no Hokage could ever afford in their rule. Enaka knew he wouldn't just get away with denying the hokage's wishes regarding this young man he wanted to accompany the council member on his mission, but a sly blow under the water would make it easy for Enaka to remain in control of this conversation.

"I reckon you've never been part of the ANBU," The man said, while looking with a questioning expression on his face towards Sousetsu. "I've been part of Konoha's elite for a long time, so it is obvious that I have rusted in their views upon the execution of a mission, meaning that the mission precedes the life of those who carry out said mission. It is commendable that this is not your view upon things, but do refrain from insulting people by opposing your vision upon them without knowing anything about them."

Standing up, Enaka made a slight bow, turning around and walking towards the exit of the office, though turning around before leaving the Hokage on his own. "It's surprising that you seem to value my skills highly enough to safe someone, but dont forget…even I can't bring the dead back to life."

Widened eyes assured Sousetsu of his dominance over the man before him. His wish would be confirmed but another remark escaped the man once more, only this time it was regarding the Senju's standing with the council. These words were drowned out however as the Senju tilted his head to the side, looking at the traditional Hokage hat that lay resting on the desk. His logic was sound. His his decisions were final. If it were to be true, if his standing with the council would sink lower he would find himself before the Daimyo of the Fire Country, something no Hokage should ever wish upon their position. It would reflect poorly on themselves and lose support in political matters. His hand was already dealt however and his he stood by what he said.  

Enaka then spoke of Sousetsu's knowledge of the Anbu. It was true that he was not part of them, and never had been, but he knew enough about them to assure his statement.

"It is commendable that this is not your view upon things, but do refrain from insulting people by opposing your vision upon them without knowing anything about them."

His eyes wandered to and from Enaka to another part of the room. Like a child being scolded for their wrong doing, Sousetsu could not remain patient much longer. He never insulted, he assured. He remained silent however. His final words to Enaka was more than enough to settle a matter in their meeting. The Ex-Anbu made his way to the door and turned before exiting the room to give his own final words to the Hokage.

"...even I can't bring the dead back to life."

Sousetsu's eyes darted to the man. His jaw clenched at his nostrils flared as he exhaled. Was it a threat? Would Rinshi truly be safe with this man? He knew Enaka would be the troublemaker from his position from this moment on as the hostile words spewed from each other in a simple meeting such as this. Sousetsu was right to address his authority though as this man was one to look out for. An adviser who wanted to get his hands dirty. One who threatened his political standpoint and shooting down his ideas when logic was clearly there. And now he supervised one of his upcoming Jounin with an ending statement as he left the room which simply said to Sousetsu, 'if he dies, he dies.' Trust was not something he had in this man. This man was something else.

words: 4977 {Perception D > B-1 / 4975/4975}