It was another day from his home in Iwa, Sekuro woke slowly still reeling from the training in his previous days and even yesterday's day of relaxing wasn't enough.

(Flashback to yesterday)
Sekuro was sitting by a small waterfall washing his hands and waiting for a representative who was heading into the village to come meet him as per Sekuro's request. Sir, I am here as you requested, I was going in to gather supplies for our ceremony tomorrow. You wanted me to do something? He asked as politely as possible to what would be the new head of the clan, a title that had previously been just a title but now that Sekuro was a ninja of the village he would represent the clan of the Phantom Sword both in stature and in the village. Sekuro turned to him slowly, Yes, I would like you to run to the office of the Tsuchikage and the village elders and invite them to our affair. You may choose to do so however you want and I am aware it is not customary for outsiders to visit our small slice of the village hidden up in the mountains. But it is important that as we start to integrate ourselves into the village we include our leaders. To the clan, I will be the leader, acting as an ambassador and helping our clan achieve its formerly noble status.
But to the village, I am only a genin. The lowest of the low, to them I am almost expendable and it is sad but I will do what I can to revive the greatness of our the one who discovered the Meifu no me and brought our clan together. Send the Kage my regards, let him know it will be a formal affair, if he comes early we can have a drink and discuss any business we may have regarding the clan and the village. Now hurry, I don't want to give him too short of a notice to prepare for something like this.
The courier scurried off in the direction of the village and Sekuro was again left to his thoughts about how to unify the clan and spur them on to having a great presence within the village as well. For a clan that comes from nobility and honor it will be difficult to lead at such a young age, and he also has not even unlocked the first release of the Meifu no me. All of that should change soon though, Sekuro had studied the legend of how it came to be and the training methods to unlock it. He was close, he was so close that he wanted to put this ceremony off just so he could train his eyes to greatness. The Dojutsu and the jutsu along with it are what makes The Clan of the Phantom Sword great and what will allow them to become great ninja.
Well then, Sekuro said to himself, Perhaps thats enough for my own thoughts today, it's time to prepare for a ceremony and the beginning of rebuilding this clan. Sekuro stood up from his rock near the pond and began walking towards the clan's office to help oversee the preperations and to prepare a place for the Tsuchikage and the other village leaders who might be attending to witness the traditions of crowning a new leader.

Now the preperations have been made and all of the village is excited to instate a new leader since the former head disappeared not only from the clan but from all of Iwa. Sekuro never heard back from his courier but with several hours to go the Tsuchikage could show up at anytime. Sekuro had dawned his ceremonial kimino, Black and grey with the Devil's trap marking into the shoulder in grey. He sat waiting, sipping on his bourbon in the bar at the center of the village and waiting in his ceremonial garbs with a ceremonial sword tied to his back. He wasn't so worried about something going wrong with the ceremony or the Tsuchikage not enjoying himself, he knew that all would go well but he was worried about giving a speech or having to say anything really, it wasn't his strong suit and at his age, he wasn't sure he could incite the emotions of anyone. Sekuro sat there sipping his bourbon, Oh well, he thought, I'm sure the day will go fine. Another sip of bourbon and he refilled his glass as he waited, waited for something to happen.

[768 words]

Akira had expected the day to be rather laid back for once. No bandit raids that weren't already being dealt with, No one was starving in the streets and the university was bustling with weeks worth of plans already set in place. The months shipment of collected taxes had arrived with the Daimyo safely. He had hesitated on sending it, so much combined ryo could of finished paying for all the things Iwa still needed and then some, yet he knew the daimyo would not be using it for such. No, in fact the Daimyo was rumored to have a massive treasury. His horde stocked away as him and his court lived overly lavish lives. Growing fatter and filled with more greed by the day. Even now some were not able to pay for schooling as taxes were up to thirty percent. That last tax hike had made Akira furious. Still he also knew that the daimyo had some very well equipped guards. If he tried to stand against him then the guards would burn the village down around him. No, he would need allies before that. For now it was simply the reason he had wished to enjoy the day.

Still it was a small surprise but all too expected when a courier arrived about his third cup of bourbon. Golden eyes watched the thin man before him quietly as he was invited to the ceremony introducing the new clan head of the local dojutsu clan. Their clan name was too hard to pronounce after only hearing it once but he was interested none the less. Iwa's very own dojutsu and he was just now hearing of a shinobi who could use it. Or at least was from a blood line that was capable of using it. He was born around a couple of the worlds most famous dojutsu and those clans had always been very regal, almost boring at most times. The Hyuga had always considered him a wild card and they were not wrong. Still he had been one of the most potent Hyuga in years in the clan even then. He didn't even primarily focus on the hyuga soft palm but split his practices with a closed fist. But that was a lifetime ago. A cycle of time and violence had passed and now as far as anyone knew he was a golden eyed Kazako and his talents fit well with the clan.

Still he shooed the Courier away before resigning himself to the event. He placed the crystal cap back on the bottle and moved over to the closet. Opening the glass container to pull out a pair of long white robes with silver lining. He was wearing Black slacks and dress boots along with a button up shirt tucked into the waist already. The top two buttons undone. His suit coat was off to the side but he wouldn't be wearing that. It didn't go well with the hat in his opinion. So he slipped into the long robe that dropped to his ankles and wrapped it closed around him. It's collar sticking up around his neck like a wall. Somehow the patterns made him seem a little taller then he was but that was fine. He ran a hand through his hair pushing back his bangs before slipping on the Tsuchikage hat. He had a new one made for him since the old hat was covered in blood stains and burns from the last Kage before him daily activities. That Lava release clan was fueled by violence it seemed. All they saw was that anything in their way could burn. He could respect that though. Anything in his way was either asked to move or crushed. The difference was he usually gave the moving option first.

Still when he exited his office he locked it behind him and set the guards there. He was suspicious of anything being altered while he was out so he also left a thin white thread jammed into the door so if it opened it would drop. Satisfied he moved away from his office and down the hall. He stopped just outside the doors to the exit and pulled out one of his cigars before exiting the building. Another guard kept nearby. Keeping to the shadows as best he could as it was just after noon. Still it was a challenge to keep up with Akira as he lit his cigar and took a long drag. Suddenly he was moving at full speed in the direction of the event. One moment he was standing there and the next he was moving building to building at astonishing speeds. Still he didn't push himself as he didn't care to sweat, he was enjoying his cigar, and he needed to let his escort keep up. Still he managed to land just outside the center most point of the village with a bit of a rush of dust away from his landing. Still he placed his hat on his head, adjusted it and then took another puff of his cigar. A slightly exhausted guard arrived a moment later before Akira moved into the area.

Akira casually emerged into the festivities before letting out a small cloud of smoke from his cigar. His bangs no longer hid his golden gaze but his hat seemed to cast a shadow over them. People would bow and greet him but something about that gaze warned about getting to close. Still he turned to his guard and spoke as he eyed the food tables. Everything from sandwich rolls to pasta all the way down to roasted duck. "Inform the young lord I have arrived and will meet him when he see's fit. It is his party after all." He smirked a little before his guard slunk into the shadows to find the host while Akira moved over to the duck. Pulling off one of the cut pieces of meat with his free hand and tossing it into his mouth. It was deliciously juicy. Should the guard find the young lord to be he would point out Akira to him and pass on the message. Either way Akira was enjoying getting out an about a bit more then one might expect from a respectable Kage.

1056

Sekuro sat at the bar, just finishing his glass of bourbon, prepared to switch it up and get a glass of whiskey that was specially distilled by the clan. As he poured his drink a ninja appeared behind him, a ninja who was mostly likely ANBU assigned to the Tsuchikage's personal guard. He began to speak, Excuse me, you are the one in charge here tonight are you not? Lord Tsuchikage has arrived and is awaiting your presence near the dining areas. The ninja continued to add in something about the Tsuchikage's appearance and how he might find him but Sekuro tuned him out as he grabbed a second glass and poured some more of the whiskey for himself in his own glass and took a drink from it and put a couple of cigars in the inner pocket of his black kimono.
Sekuro turned to the ninja after he finished his speel, Very well, I will meet him soon, you may return to whatever shadow you are required to hide in although I would invite you to join us in the festivities.
The ninja turned his head and nodded and disappeared off into the trees, no matter it was time to address the Tsuchikage. He took his two glasses and the bottle of whiskey and began to head towards where the Kage was waiting. On his trip he pondered about the leader, Sekuro had seen him a few times back when he was in the academy and on very a few occasions and holidays when he was about and giving speeches.
Sekuro was not sure of the order of affairs of tonight. There were many legends about the Tsuchikage and Sekuro had wanted to hear about him and the strength behind him, hopefully the strength of the whiskey would loosen him up for the events of tonight. It was irresponsible of him but he had hardly looked at what was supposed to happen, he was just going to take things one at a time.
He approached the dining area and looked to see the Tsuchikage sitting at a table, he seemed to be enjoying himself, and especially enjoying the food. He was acknowledging the local guests and chowing down. Sekuro grabbed a plate of rice and barbequed pork and took that and his whiskey and glasses and approached the table. He walked up set down his plate and bowed slightly towards the Tsuchikage. He immediately sat down and set the glasses down, pouring a drink for his guest and one for himself. He slid the glass towards him and looked into the golden eyes of his guest. Lord Tsuchikage, it is a great honor to have you hear today. Please, I encourage you to try this whiskey. It is a Fantomusodo specialty, hand distilled in the mountain, it carries the smoothness of bourbon with the strength of scotch. Sekuro noticed his cigar as well, he was glad to see that this Kage, who had been seen as invincible would also share so many common things with Sekuro. He pulled out one of his cigars as well, I hope you don't mind this either, if you finish yours I have a few more on me in case you'd like another. You can call me Sekuro, the soon to be leader of the Fantomusodo. He took out a match and lit his cigar, took a puff of it and then leaned back to the wall in his chair and awaited what would happen next and how his honored guest would respond to him.

[596 words, 1364 words total]

Akira had begun to feel relaxed as the festivities commenced. A couple of fireworks were let off. Be it in honor of his arrival or in honor of the new clan head he wasn't sure. Not that he was here to steal any of the young lords thunder. He wanted to make an impression on the mind of the new head of such a prestigious clan. After all individuals might forget their place given too much authority. Then again that was the warning the Daimyo's court had sent him the last time he defied them. The idle threats they hid in their messages remained just that though, idle. He frowned at the idea of if that changed. If the daimyo and his court chose to move against him or found the idea of a Kage that they actually feared too daunting and chose to replace him with someone they could mold. Still they knew if they tried it the destruction to their numbers would be immense. Not many had seen Akira fight but those that had spoke of it as if seeing a beast unchained. Even fewer still had seen Akira take a fight seriously. His fists were rumored to be that of a god. Yet he knew that was just fantasy. He was as mortal as any other. While he could rip into an army sheer numbers would eventually take him down. At the moment if the daimyo acted to take him down he would succeed and Akira would fall. Still it was hard for Akira to tip toe around such a greedy bunch. He just wanted to hurl a boulder at them when they hiked taxes last time.

Still his frown disappeared in an instant when his eyes flicked away from the purple bursts of fireworks in the sky to eye another approaching him laden down with food and drink. Yet the stranger was far too well dressed to be mistaken for some form of waiter. Quietly Akira flicked the ashes off his cigar before placing it back against his lips only to inhale and let the cherry on the end light up as if newly flamed. Golden eyes met purple eyes and he recognized the individual was at the very least a member of the clan. He opened the corner of his mouth and let out a small cloud of smoke before sitting back in his chair. The young man set down his plate and bowed to Akira before Akira bowed his head back. He couldn't bow his head much more then a nod though as the wide hat would cut off his vision and he didn't like that. It was part of why he never was seen wearing the foul thing. Still it didn't take long for the individual to begin to speak and set down the drink with two glasses. Akira blinked and watched curiously as the young man introduced himself as the new clan head and offered him some clan brewed drink. It would be incredibly rude to refuse such a thing so he indicated with a smile and a raise of his right hand to the drink for the young man to pour him a drink. Some would worry about ambitions and poison but Akira also happened to be a world class medic, tiered amongst the best, any poison was bound to fail and the person responsible to face harsh consequences. He doubted anyone didn't know that. Still he puffed on his cigar and waited until he was handed a glass before sipping it. Only then did he speak in return to the young lord.

"Hmm, well flavored yet strong. As well as warm and smooth. A rare talent to be able to brew such a whiskey. A surprise as well. A family as traditional as yours, one may have expected Sake. A pleasant surprise though. As for your cigar Lord Sekuro, I would not take for myself such liberties that I would deny others. Feel free."

He chuckled and puffed his own half smoked cigar once more. letting out a smoke ring as more purple fireworks got lit off. He allowed himself to turn and look at them a moment more before he smiled and downed the rest of his glass. Setting it down but making no motion for more. Pounding back whiskey usually led to some rather brash behavior after too many. The fact that it was easy on the throat and tongue made it all the more dangerous to lose track of. Still he turned back to the young man before him and leaned forward resting with his arms on the table and his fingers folded. His golden eyes studied him as if they could see through time itself. As if they could see not only the present but the past and even the future. The young lords soul like an open display before him. Such a gaze had frozen many a fighter before. The all seeing hawk like eyes of the Tsuchikage. It was a wonder that so little was known of him before he became Kage. Still some preferred their privacy. Still when he spoke it was a soft and practiced voice. Like silk on the ears it flowed as if he was born from a sirens song. It was also true that when he was being civil he was fairly charming.

"I wonder what I should say to you. Perhaps a warning on how easily power corrupts? Ahh but your clan focuses on honor so I doubt you haven't been warned of such already. Shall we discuss the responsibilities as one of my shinobi? Or should I caution you on the greed in mens hearts? Such a young man as yourself being placed above others there will undoubtedly be murmuring. A warning to remain vigilant then. Yes that will do, I give you this bit of advise Lord Sekuro, Remain vigilant of even your closest of allies. Make sure each decision is your own. Do not play checkers when others play chess and you shall do well. Now then, do you have any questions for me?"

2082

This would be a very welcome and relaxing night, he could tell already, no bickering between clan members to deal with and no old, overly traditional members, who were upset that their sons were passed up to become the head of the clan, to complain about him. Well, that was openly at the party at least. Sekuro was convinced that there was a very strong dissent of his rise to power among the clan members, he thought that even at his inauguration that there would be whispers questioning him. Lord Tsuchikage referred to it as resolve when giving his advice. How appropriate of the leader of the entire village to question if he was up to the challenge but those within the village were nothing more than those complaining of the system, not wanting to change or fix things but to see it set up their way.
Sekuro thought about the Tsuchikage's words and responded pondering his own thoughts while he spoke, "Wise words indeed, let us both hope that I am up to the challenge ahead of me, and the challenges of the village. Sekuro would have offered a toast to that sentiment but the Tsuchikage had already finished his first glass and chose not to refill with it. Probably the best for both of them that they don't go too far. I also understand my responsibilities as a ninja, to serve the Village hidden in the Stone and to help keep the peace in our nation through our actions. My actions during a mission and while wearing this headband are a direct representation of both my character and the village's. That academy speech has been drilled in my head more than you could imagine, and the honor of the clan plays a huge role in that as you pointed out. Sekuro leaned his chair back in and began to comprehend the Tsuchikage's glaze into him.
His golden eyes pierced through him, looking into every aspect of his soul and trying to measure up what his values were and what he would become as a ninja. It was no matter, Sekuro would soon posess the Meifu no Me, otherwise known as the Eyes of the Netherworld; the most stern glance barely scratching the surface of him where it would rattle most other ninja. It would not be long now as Sekuro was operating on a fast track to becoming a great ninja, where as most genin are still hunting lost animals Sekuro was becoming influential in the village.
You want to know if I have any questions though, it should be quite complicated to just ask you so let me explain. Look around the party here, his demeanor turned much more serious as Sekuro also turned to help focus the Kage's attention towards the rest of the party. Around us is the party to celebrate the coming of a new leader of the clan, there are groups of people talking and eating, kids running around and playing and fireworks periodically going off. But why, in a clan of several hundred people, are only a small portion of them in the actual floor. I understand that more are outside but still only accounts for maybe half of the total population of the mountain. I'm sure you've noticed and even heard whispering about things, and if you haven't then let me clarify. I am seen as too young by many around here to properly lead, too young and far too radical in ideology for this clan. That is why not everyone celebrates and even fewer come to congratulate me. It is no problem though, as I would rather be sitting in  hot spring with this cigar and relaxing than dressed up and sent here to simply chat amongst everyone and gossip on my neighbors. If this dissent grows it could create problems, I need to motivate these people behind me and my lead. You said do not play checkers when they are playing chess, but I want my pieces to bend to my rule, so if I desire my knight to attack the diagonal, then he should be capable or otherwise be a waste of a piece. As he said these words many around him quitted and began to listen, Sekuro noticed and decided to sum up his words towards the Tsuchikage now that the nearby tables and guests had tuned in, So, in summary, I want to make sure we're on the same page. As a ninja, I fully support the village and will do everything up to sacrificing my life to defend it, and I will sway the clan from it's isolationist dogma to also support the village as it has in the past. I just want you to know that, to remember that we are here, and although we may only have one actual ninja and a few academy students, we are also warriors here to serve. The party guests had lost interest in their business talk, they didn't care for the village like a noble clan of Iwa should but that would soon change.
Sekuro had finished speaking and had fully laid out his concerns for the clan's future, he knew that tearing these people from underneath their rocks would bring opposition and he wanted to make sure the Tsuchikage was aware of what that entails. Sekuro finished of his drink and food and was wondering what would happen next and if he could trust the Tsuchikage, hoping he would have a way to muster support of the clan. Besides, this man was clearly great and could bring about a sense of awe after appearing in a room, he was also rumored to have extensive political and battle experience to handle any situation even as small as a clan's petty grumbling.

[977 words, 2341 total words]

Akira sat back and lifted the stub of a cigar to his lips. A couple of puffs from it more and it was down to the end where it met the ring. With that he shifted to put it out in a mostly empty bowl next to him with remnants of cake. It wasn't his but it was obvious who ever had left it there had been finished eating as barely the scraps remained. The remaining frosting and bread burned a little filling the air with a sweet scent for a moment. Still his yellow eyes continued to watch the young man across from him as a speech was given. His gaze swept over those he noted turned to listen. So the clan didn't simply let politics go without notice. Still that didn't exactly indicate wisdom. So many people gawking at the speech were more of an indication of gossip hounds. He wondered how much they would mutate the boys words towards his clan before it reached all the people it would. It was a little to late to urge caution with ones words. While nothing was openly said in poor form of the people, it could be misconstrued into something harsh. Even taken out of context. It was one of the first difficulties of being a politician.

Still he leaned back as dozens of purple eyes fell on him. All curious on the reply that was expected of him. Still he let his gaze rest on the boy across from him calmly. He remained relaxed even with all the social pressure flowing around him. To him he was just having a one on one conversation. Not so much a major debate over clans and their relationship with the village. Calmly he reached out with his left hand and plucked a grape from its stem. He let the silence drag on as he popped it into his mouth and bit into it. Popping its outer wall in order to receive its juices. He closed his eyes for a moment savoring it. Still after he swallowed he opened his eyes again. The strain in the air waiting for him to speak was immense. He could almost feel the tension like a string stretched on and on. Still he smiled and when he spoke he did so calmly. Yet he also spoke in a casual tone. The comfort he took in the moment was obvious. Yet people had to strain to listen.

"Lord Sekuro, I asked if you had any questions, yet I didn't hear any that you yourself didn't answer. So allow me to address some of your statements. First the lack of attendance. Not every member of thousands as you claim has much reason to be here. This is little more then a festive day, a party if you will. Keep in mind there are other things one can be doing with their day. With that said take into account who isn't here. Know who openly supports you and of those who might not. Secondly, as for wanting your pieces to do as you wish and not as they were intended, those are the words of someone far to spoiled in life. I assure you that it is far more important to know the capabilities of a given piece and know when to use it instead of trying to force it into a situation it can not handle. As a clan head your pieces are living relatives and their lives are in your hands. Do not sacrifice them because they don't fit one specific purpose. Lastly I mus caution you in speaking too openly in public. If you lead your clan to believe even you would rather be lazing about then leading them, then motivation is not what you offer. Instead you ask the people to wake up knowing their leader doesn't wish to put in the effort to raise them up. With one hand offer compassion and love. There is no room for indifference there. Nor with the other hand, which you must keep firm and closed in a fist. Be prepared should those who do not wish to tolerate your rise to power stand against you. With you other hand you must be prepared to tear them apart and destroy them down to the ashes returned upon the dirt of the grave."

2814

Sekuro had finished roughly half of his cigar, it had burn at an awkward angle too. What a waste he thought, he put it aside and as the Tsuchikage began to bite into a grape. It seemed that they had attracted the attention of several nearby tables of guests, both of the clan and out of the clan. His words would surely be the talk of the town tonight and making its rounds through the gossip rings. Lord Tsuchikage began to speak, it was calm enough to in some sense send the worries of the nearby gatherers to continue with their meals and their own conversations, at least to some degree. It seemed like more straight forward advice to the passive listener, but Sekuro knew a scolding when he heard one, and he definitely messed up with his words this time.
The Kage finished his speech and had never lost his quite and calm tone but there was a degree of seriousness as well, he knew every word counted and meant the utmost. He finished off with a metaphor giving advice and displaying Akira's knowledge of battle ideologies and tactics. It was an interesting point and Sekuro would take heed of every point of his speech. His cigar had gone out by this time and he would not bother picking it back up, but instead took a drink of the water that he had grabbed as well. And cleared his throat, he was slightly embarrassed and hoped not to show it. You are right Lord Tsuchikage. There are no thousands of members, it was more of an exaggeration but sometimes it may feel like that, it is a symptom of me speaking my thoughts while they are running away in my mind. You are also right about me slacking off, but I hope to clear up some misunderstanding, I would never shirk the work necessary to supporting my clan and my village. But I should say that I would much rather work smarter and not harder, that way I can make time for my own hobbies and relaxing during my day.
Sekuro took another sip of water, he hadn't meant to go on so long, trying to reconcile his previous words to the Tsuchikage would be no easy task, and he would probably not wish to hear these excuses anyways. It would be best to leave it at an apology and move on. Well then, he looked at Akira firmly, To sum up what I'm trying to say, you are right, and I am still learning, hopefully I can learn from your example here tonight and in the future. As for some questions for you specifically, I would like to ask you two questions before we move on with tonight's events, they are deep questions that have no correct answer but I think would give me direction in my future endeavors. Firstly, when is the right time to strike with my fist that I should keep closed? I understand that my hand of compassion and love must be ever extended towards those who would wish to take it. But when should I move to strike down those who oppose me ad to what end should I be prepared to go. He paused for a second, again taking a sip of his water and finishing his glass completely. He took a small sigh and began again, Secondly, if you had to pick one trait you would look for in someone to lead what would it be and why? If there is even such a trait to define leadership itself. Hopefully you will be able to answer at least briefly before we are interrupted. And again I am sorry about my early words, I meant no harm to yours or my reputation.
Sekuro breathed a small sigh of relief, he thought he had well covered his thoughts and although his apology would be too little too late, he knew it was necessary to move on in their conversation. Around the event the people were finishing their meals and the fireworks seemed to be wrapping up for the moment. Most had stopped their drinking and were preparing for what was next in this special gathering, but not everyone was and the soon to be clan head was more nervous about what would happen next than anyone could imagine. Save for the gossip to follow, any more embarrassment he were to cause himself would be short lived at best, so why be nervous. He tuned in as now was time to hear what the Tsuchikage thought about his questions and then to see what would be next on the nights agenda.

[781 words, 3122 words total]

Akira leaned back and his gaze took in the boy once more. Studying him in depth. He always seemed to be doing that. Studying individuals with his eyes. Many would claim they knew everything about a person with a glance but Akira considered them fools. Observing someone was like studying a door that only opened little by little with the interior constantly shifting. An individual was their worst enemy because their inner conflict was never still. He listened to the questions as he contemplated those thoughts. Life was walking on a line of light in the shadow of death. You can raise your fist high and shout out a battle cry and push on, but in the end one will always fall into the depths of the abyss. Even those claiming immortality somehow met their end eventually. Still that was little to no reason to stop. Akira chose to live his life on the front lines of every conflict and due to that he had risen. Anyone in his way either stepped up and fell or got out of the way. However, for that he had been pictured as a brutal man at first. Only due to his political pursuits had he managed to get away from that shadow.

Akira watched as the boy set down his cigar and let it go out. It was a shame but Akira had already finished his own before the conversation had gotten to the point where it was too serious for an average back and forth over a couple of cigars. The boy flat out wanted to know everything about being a leader. It concerned Akira about the questions being asked so publicly. Still, by doing so at least everyone listening in and whomever they gossiped to would have their answer to some of their own questions. Still Akira smiled and shook his head. He shifted forward and poured himself another sip of whiskey. Quietly he breathed it in as the other finished speaking. He studied the liquid and finally drank it. Closing his eyes as he did so and growling happily at the flavor. Once he was done he set the glass down and his right hand rose to rub the back of his neck before his eyes opened once more to look Sekuro in the eyes. It was then that he spoke. His tone was softer then before. An almost bedside manner of a doctor by how soft his voice was. Like silk on the ears. It was his charisma that won over many people. His silver tongue was used more often then his fist as of late.

"When to show compassion and when to show anger is always a fine line. Being a leader is equivalent to walking a tight rope holding a scale. Your clans fate rests on you reaching the end in tact. On one hand of the scale you have your compassion. The needs of the clan and its connection to the village under your rule. Within it you can bear fruit and the clan as well as the village." With that he picked up a pear. He held it up and looked at it before he spoke another word. Somehow darker then before. "However" With that word he clenched his hand and the fruit crushed within it like a water balloon. Bits of it falling about as the remnants dripped from his hand. "There are those who would take from the clan or the village or both. They do this out of greed. Wanting more for themselves for no other reason then they want it. They will tear you down if you let them. It is these people you must be vigilant of. You must remember to be Just, not harsh. Question yourself only once before acting. What would be just when dealing with this individual? If they are nothing more then a poison strike them down. Yet if there is more to them you may be able to heal them of the darkness in their hearts. Always keep that in mind." He picked up a napkin and dipped it in some water before washing off his hand. It was then that he continued. "As for your other question. Its actually incredibly difficult to sum up a perfect leader with one trait. There are dozens of traits a perfect leader would require. Ones no man can have all of as all men are flawed. However what I look for in a good leader is to be indomitable. In both mind and body. They must not be corruptible with riches or power. At the same time they must be able to stand against the wave of hate and rage that comes against them when they try and put down the corrupt. Does that answer your questions?"

3613

Deep into their conversation it began to get very serious, probably more serious than Sekuro would have liked to make it but it would also be one of very few opportunities that Sekuro might get to speak to the Tsuchikage directly and in person. His questions would probably raise concern among his fellow clan members but he wanted to get a feel for Akira and how he thought, and give insight into how he tends to deal with situations he is presented and he did nothing short of provide an answer for Sekuro. His tone shifted and he now seemed to want to enlighten and teach Sekuro rather than scold him, what a sudden shift, a distinction not many would care to key in on, especially in such a relaxed conversation but often times small details can lead to huge pieces of information if properly detected.

Lord Akira started by defining the line between when to show anger and when to show compassion. It was insightful, and words he would need to keep in mind, Akira had done well thus far as Tsuchikage and his word is worth quite a bit to those intending to lead, both small squads of ninja and to those who would hope to lead an entire nation. He would then go to further warn Sekuro of the dangers of greed for both money and power and the corruptness that dominates. Sekuro had never cared much for physical possessions but great power was one thing he would accept and get behind when given the opportunity.

He then addressed his answer about how a leader should be after washing his hands off with a napkin. He gave his small speel about leadership and how no one trait defines a leader, what a typical answer, Sekuro was slightly disappointed sinking back into his chair. But then Akira continued and gave him an answer, a pretty good one at that as well. Indominable. The idea that you can't be corrupted, body or mind. It is such a simple idea, and it would toss around in his mind for a second. If you can't be corrupted then a good and righteous leader needs to remain that way, it is an obvious answer and possibly the easiest one to figure out if you really think about it, also arguably one of the more important traits to have.

Hmmm, yes I would say that my questions have been thoroughly answered, and I will enjoy pondering them later on as well. He looked around at Akira for a second and then to his plate, still so much good food to be tasted today. And with his cigar out and his cup empty it would soon be time to go for a second trip through the crowd to gather more food and to continue enjoying the night.

Sekuro slowly began to stand up, he looked towards Akira and picked up his empty plate as he began to speak. Well, I think it's time I go back up and tried some more of this food, fell free to join me, when I get back though, I want to know a bit more about you yourself, and not you the Tsuchikage. If you think you have the time to tell some of your tales of course. No pressure here, but my stories are probably not nearly as much fun as your stories would be to hear. He took his now empty plate to where they were being kept and would be cleaned off, and then proceeded to the crowd of people around the buffet line waving and nodding his head to some but really focusing in on if the Tsuchikage had followed him and had anything to say.

He grabbed several more parts of meat, some what he thought was grilled chicken, and roasted pork, as well as some salad and steamed vegetables he couldn't get on his first pass through. It all looked so good, and thanks to this feast he would pass out early and sleep very well tonight. Sekuro then walked back to the table they were sitting at after waving at a few more people and shaking hands with an Academy teacher who was happy to see him grow so quickly. He sat back down and poured himself another glass of that special whiskey. It was quite good and paired well with most of the food he was now sampling. So now that that is done, tell me a little about who Akira is, doesn't have to be some big long tale, I just want to know a little bit more about the man who guards the village from the shadows.

[784 words, 3906 words total]

Akira watched the boy sit back in his chair as if almost disappointed in his answer. Really the question had no magically right answer that could be told. It was all based on opinions and no two people had the exact same views on any one thing without blind belief. As for that well, being as he wasn't too into cults he wasn't about to believe anything without evidence to support it. Still it was nauseatingly easy to manipulate those types of people. Then again Akira had always been one of the better ends of a silver tongue. It was yet to catch up and bite him in the ass. The day was coming sure, but until it arrived he was king of the domain for all intents and purposes. Yes the Daimyo ruled the land but it wasn't the Daimyo the people turned to with their issues. It wasn't the Daimyo signing trade agreements with the other nations and it wasn't the Daimyo rising the economy up so high that the mountain village was becoming the star of trade in the north. Still, Akira wasn't foolish enough to think he was solely responsible. His shinobi were capable of defending the village for the most part and the people had striven to raise themselves up when given the opportunity.

Still his eyes followed the boy as he got up to go and refill his dish. The boy held himself higher then the average person. Akira almost saw himself reflected in the young man. A prodigy in a clan already revered. Some legends were told, some turned to dust and some to gold, but based on that boys mistakes or success his name would be remembered for centuries. If he lived long enough the world would know his name. All the makings of an alpha male. Akira smiled as he looked up at the fireworks in the sky bursting overhead. This would be day one of that boys first chapter. He could only wonder if the man would be a hero or a tyrant. Akira would of course attempt to bend the hands of fate to force the boy down the hero role but fate fought him daily. He could only conquer it for so long. Still if the boy wanted to learn more about him he would have to seek him out in a less public place. As the boy made his return the moment he was able to see Akira, that golden gaze would meet his with a small smirk and a twinkle in the eyes before a couple passed between them. In the moment that the direct line of sight was broken Akira was gone. Like a wisp of smoke in the air all that remained was the hat sat on the table. If nothing else a reason to see the Tsuchikage again. Almost an invitation to be brought back. Or a trophy if he was more of that type of person. Worst case scenario he was lazy and the hat just got tossed away. None of those scenarios bothered Akira as he moved at a casual but inhuman pace with his guard back towards his office. He had attended and met with the new clan head. Only time would tell what the future really held.

Still as he arrived back at the office he paused and looked back up the mountain towards the celebrations. It was certainly an extravagant ordeal. Such fireworks over a clan head was obviously less about politics and more about showing off in his opinion. But the only one there who had asked for any sort of opinion from him was the one main attraction. The purple eyes seemed to be branded on his mind. It was beyond an interesting dojutsu. From what little he understood of it based on the file on the clan was it locked down or unlocked potential depending on what the caster desired. It was apparently rare to unlock it too far anymore but the idea of only two or three people with that ability fully unlocked was both exciting and frightening. He sighed with a smile as he realized that must be how others viewed the Uchiha. Still the boy wasn't the only one with a dojutsu in the village. There was the local Uchiha artist, not too strong as a shinobi yet alone a member of a famed clan but still formidable enough. And of course there was Akira himself. He hadn't used his byakugan in some time, nor had he ever used the new ones he had inherited from a fallen clan member. Yet still he knew if he tried they would activate and he remembered the feeling of seeing everything. Nothing in the world could hide from his eyes. Still if more members of the clan managed to rank up to genin he would certainly see how they worked on teams. After all that clan was the ideal support to have in any squad. Weakening the enemy and strengthening the allies with barely a sweeping glance. Akira shook his head at the pure audacity of it before he dismissed the guard who sank into the shadows and entered the building. Back to work as always.


~Exit thread~
4492
Perception training
A ~> A-1, 1000
A-1 ~> A-2, 1150
A-2 ~> A-3, 1300
3450

Strength training
A ~> A-1, 1000

42 words remaining

It had been a fun evening, as Sekuro got his food he wondered if the Tsuchikage was able to do things like this often, or if he was simply too busy to deal with pleasantries and parties like this often. Most likely not, being the leader of one of the hidden villages must keep a certain amount of stress and with the land of stone never really stopping, it's Kage must also be ever vigilant. Still, must be nice for him to relax and have a drink and meet the ninja of his village every so often.

Sekuro finished grabbing his food and headed back towards the table, he made eye contact once again with the Tsuchikage, between two people, his gaze as strong as ever and his words able to inspire Sekuro, to lead like Lord Akira would take something like a strong gaze. As the person passed, Sekuro looked down slightly then back up to where the Tscuhikage was sitting with him. He was gone, disappeared without a trace of what direction he was going in, no one else seemed to notice, nothing disturbed in the air and no one gasping, it was as if he had never even been there. It might have driven Sekuro crazy to think he might have been talking to himself that whole time, but Lord Akira left the Kage's hat on the table. Sekuro might try to read into it, like Akira passing his leadership onto his generation, or maybe he was telling him that being a leader isn't about the clothes and title that come along with it. Who knew what the Tsuchikage was thinking but Sekuro would have to return his hat to him now. Maybe he would bring it to him soon, when he was going to try to be promoted to Chuunin, or maybe he could ask him for a quick training session where he would also return it. Considering he left it there, it probably wasn't a huge deal to Akira, but Sekuro would still return the symbol to him one day.

Sekuro sat down after putting the hat away behind the bar, telling the server to hold it back there until later, he went and finished his meal, a few others coming around him, reminiscing about when he was just a boy and telling the embarassing stories only friends and family could tell. Too bad he had no family to share this moment with. He finished and put his plates and silverware away and went to mingle, soon he would be ordained as the leader of the clan, to act as the ambassador of the Fantomusodo for the Village Hidden in the Stone. The rest of the party went well, everyone was happy, and he was well distracted from his training as a ninja, only to have even more responsibility tomorrow, when his official duties start. His ordainment involved him giving a short speech, where he gave the clan his expectations, telling them he hoped to bring the clan to the forefront of the village and that he would do his best to represent their interests with the village elders and administration. He would then be given a ceremonial sword, it was blunt and no good for use, but made for a great display in his office or in his home. And then a small gold pin of the clan symbol that he could wear to identify him as part of the clan. There was no big fancy hat like the Kage's or a robe he would have to wear to identify him outside of the clan, just the knowledge that he now had lots of responsibility to his clansmen and women.

[Exit Thread]
[621 words, 4527 words total]

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