Akira sat in his office in his large leather chair as he stared at a troubling letter. The coding of it was one very few knew but he was troubled by the contents. The paper was soft in his hands and yet it felt almost brittle. Like the very contents of the letter was a fragile thing. Quietly he set it down gently as the bird sat to the side by the fire warming up the creature as it ate. The winter weather was still sticking strong to Iwagakure and in the mountain ranges the snow was sticking rather thick. Even now he could see the moisture on the birds feathers as it flapped them to try and knock a few drops off from the melted ice. It's golden eyes met Akira's for a second before it went back to its meal of a mouse it had captured on the journey. After all it had taken time for it to cross the continent. Truthfully an old method of information delivery when an Email would of been just as fast and easy to encrypt. Still Akira didn't truly feel the method of delivery was the issue here. If anything the contents of the letter made the day seem very dark indeed. He wasn't sure the world was prepared for the unrest that these events suggested was hovering in the air. How could the two nations have dissolved against each other so easily? It was beyond reason that this could happen. And yet he picked up the letter once more as he slipped on his reading glasses and set about reading. The glasses less out of need and more simply for comfort and eye care. He did read a lot after all. Still he opened the letter and read it once more from top to bottom.

"To my Dearest Akira

My fellow Kage, Kirigakure has been wronged this day by the land of Kumo, Kumo have imprisoned Kirigakure ninja without cause due to the actions of one of their own. It can only be claimed that Sanosuke Flynt has acted on a dark paranoia which I could not possibly comprehend. This action, though it may be a cue for hostility between our countries, I will not allow it to escalate into an act of war. We have seen the perils of war and understand its horrors that I hope will never grace our lands again, but, I MUST help my people.

I hope that your stance will be to stand with Kiri, as you had in the War of the Seven Bells, and not the madness of those who would seek to disturb peace, as this act alone, I can sadly say, has shattered the relationship between our two countries.

I would ask that reinforcements to be sent to Kirigakure no Sato with the hopes of fortifying our borders "
with the help of our dear allies while we attempt to rescue our captured friends, and family from wrongful imprisonment.

Please, I beg of you.

-Solstice 'Ayakashi' Aisu, Mizukage of Kirigakure no Sato."

He folded the letter and sighed before turning in his chair and waving his hand over a back wall revealing a genjutsu that was hiding a small safe. Quietly he put in the combination...12 to the left...13 to the right twice and lastly 32 to the left once. The safe clicked to life as it unlocked and popped open before Akira slid in the letter folded once more. Within was a couple of other documents and a small stack of ryo along with a single Konoha head band. He closed it once more and spun the dial before it clicked locked again and he turned away waving his hand over it once more as he replaced the genjutsu hiding it from sight. It was a personal safe of his and it didn't need anyone else getting into it. Still he loosened his tie as he sat in his chair. Black dress boots and black socks leading into black slacks as usual. A black belt with a silver clasp held them up along with a pair of suspenders that had dagger holsters on the chest. Beneath the suspenders was a cream colored vest with dark shoulders and a silver button up shirt under that with a dark tie buttoned into it. Quietly his right hand reached up and loosened his tie before he sighed. This was too dire for him to remain on the other side of the continent but he needed to leave someone in charge while he was gone. Quietly he stood as he collected a drink of whiskey from his cabinet. He quietly sipped at it as he leaned back against his desk and considered his options.

Nanashi would of been the ideal choice but the man hadn't been active in the ranks for a bit now. Not since his time in Kumo. That aside if he grew attached to anyone in Kumo he couldn't have Nanashi directing Iwa's power against Akira's interests. Karumo was a fairly active individual and had taken to directing a squad rather nicely. At the same time he understood politics and the ins and outs of what one could be drawn into with politicians. Even if he was young he was the closest trustworthy person to a politician Akira could trust. As for who he would take with him...Jet had spent some time in Kumo and might have useful information for him and had recently risen to the rank of special jounin....and Suutei was eager to prove himself as well as being a semi capable fighter. He could certainly use the two of them as body guards for this. After all he would be going to Kirigakure personally. He nodded at his own thoughts before turning and placing his finger on the page button on his phone. When he spoke it voice was like silk but defined. A slight crackle on the phone after a beep to acknowledge when he could talk.

"Ms. Kanetsu....have Yuurei Jet and Suutei Kimura summoned to my office immediately please. The matter is urgent. "

The release of the button brought silence to the room only for a second before his phone came to life with a voice.

"Done Tsuchikage sama."

1056

“ACHOOO,” Suutei sniffed preventing any of the slimy substance from escaping his nose.  His face in pain making him groan from the sneeze.  This brittle winter had afflicted the young Kimura with the flu.  He had been under the weather for a few days now fighting the illness, and being taken care of by Chopper made him feel a bit at ease.  Chopper had been doing his best to nurse his friend back to tip top health conditions.  Properly medicating him justly with home remedies.
It’d been awhile since Suutei was actually in the field, as of late he’d been on patrol.  Though he was expecting to be called to the regular meeting with the Tsuchikage at any day now.  Facing the wrath of Tsuchikage after missing a mandatory meeting was something no mortal could bare.  The man alone could level an entire village singlehandedly, but up against Suutei the mental damage alone would be disastrous.  When comparing Akira to Suutei one could imagine a lush island, but then the ocean that surrounded.  That analogy was enough information anyone would need to decipher the meaning.

There was a tap at the door and Chopper scurried out of their room of their small apartment.  It was a very subtle home on the top floor of the Main Dormitory at Diamond Heights.  Within their bedroom through the sliding door came a woman dressed in the standard Anbu gear, with tied back blonde hair.  Suutei freaked out as he fell outta bed, and stood at attention.  This woman he was only to address as Ms.Kanetsu, and nothing other formalities with the ANBU were required for all shinobi.  “Ms.Kanetsu what brings you,” Suutei asked curiously as usually she never made personal visits.  First she handed him a vial that had a reddish orangish glowing substance.  She instructed that he drink the contents of the vial and she’d brief him on her sudden arrival.  Following her instructions as he grabbed the vial from her hand, and hesitated to drink the contents.  Slowly he lifted the vial to his lips and it passed over his tongue down his throat.  It was a warm feeling in his throat and his face no longer was sore.  He also lost the runny nose and before he knew it the virus was no longer present in his body.  “What was that I feel great,” Suutei exclaimed to the Anbu woman who simply scoffed.

“Lord Tsuchikage would like you to report to his office immediately,” before he could even ask any questions the woman vanished into thin air.  Chopper came back and was shocked to see Suutei on his feet and actually looking better than when he last left only 5 minutes ago.  “Suutei what happened you seem to have made a full recovery within a matter of minutes?”  Chopper saw the vial still in his hand and wanted to know where did it come from, and what were iLord Tsuchikage’s office asap, but I need a better attire got anything new for me this time?”  Suutei could always count on Chopper to provide him with a pretty stunning outfit, and one that fit him nicely at that.  Well Suutei I’d been working on this for quite sometime and I am sure you will like it, as Chopper pulled out a trunk under his bed and popped the latches.  Revealed Black Garments and a Silver Shining Pendant of a Dragon.  After he finally dressed Suutei would dawn his newest outfit consisting of a high collar sleeveless black shirt zipped only ¾ of the way up exposing his neck, black pants and boots, and a black cloth covering his left leg and arm.  Over the cloth a black pauldron fastened with two straps covering his chest, and held in place by a the gleaming Dragon Pendant a symbol paying tribute to the Kimura clan.  Slipping on a pair of leather gloves with sleeves that covered up his forearm he’d almost been ready.  He also grabbed the Kimura family sword from the trunk known as Windblaze it was already broken down to it’s compact form as he clipped it on his left side.  Suutei looked almost more mature and older as if he aged 2 years.

Waving off to Chopper he too vanished into thin air making his way to the Top Floor of the Tsuchikage’s tower.  He’d reached the top where he’d expect to find Ms. Kanetsu but instead was only greeted by Mr. Kuma another Anbu member and the Tsuchikage’s guard.  A rather large man almost the size of a giant, sharpening a hunting knife while his Kodiak bear resting near the fireplace.  Suutei announced his presence to be respectful to his superior, and made his way down the winding corridor leading to Akira-sama’s office.  Already he could sense the build up of chakra behind the reinforced wooden oak doors made in Konoha, as he knocked he’d expected everything to be in order as always.  The doors swung open on their own as always when and to his surprise Suutei saw miles of paperwork stacked on both sides of the man’s desk.  Obviously he was in need of some sort of filing cabinet and Suutei approached the middle of the room where he bowed in respect to his Tsuchikage.  “Kazako-sama it’s nice to see you I was ordered to report here but I am not sure why.  I just checked the date and our regular meeting isn’t for another few days, and so I assumed this summon must be of another matter correct?”  Asking curiously as to what made him summon him this time, though he managed to catch one glimpse of a sheet of paper that read urgent, with information he was unable to read now. As he moved it to the stack of documents on the floor to the right. Though it was hard for him to see whatever else it was without going behind the desk and actually picking up the documents.  Suutei going into his pocket for an eyeglass case containing a pair of all black sports glasses, as he slipped them on over his eyes preparing for Akira’s soul piercing gaze.

[1017]

The sudden hum of her pajer made the woman’s heart jump as if her spirit were to leap out of her own skin making the hairs on her neck stand on end before going limp as she took a breath regaining her bearings. Swiping the pajer off the waistband of her , Jet scanned the message before sighing, letting out a breath of relief, one she wasn’t aware she had held and visibly relaxed leaning back in her chair processing it and letting the information sink in, already calculating how she should behave in front of him and what could occur but the most logical thing was apparent although her exact role in all this was uncertain. No doubt the information she gathered from her trip months prior would be required in this meeting, she didn’t include all of her information in the report she gathered, only what was necessary to fill it out since the more confidential files she had were kept in a secure location along with multiple copies of each whether digital and/ or paperback. Only those under her direct authority outside of Iwa’s forces knew of the locations and the possible secrets they held though they would not live to tell the tale for their disloyalty would be stomped out at the root even if it were a simple suspicion of no reasonable ground; after all she made sure to instill discipline and absolute loyalty to her and her only, personally. Perhaps, she murmured to herself at a volume too low for anyone to hear, it would be wise to make her network known. That being said Jet was not reckless enough to give out the identities of her informants and their connections, that would be on par with serving cattle to be slaughtered or put to work until it killed itself out of misery. Her network is dear to her heart, having shed blood and tears that were not only her own, to rise and spread like a cancer among the nations feeding off the inner demons of man for its own nefarious uses. Uses that Akira will want put towards Iwa’s future.

As she did not desire making a poor impression of herself in front of her esteemed kage even though this were not their first meeting the young nineteen year old woman arose from the comfort of her seat, putting the files away after a program finished making copies and emails before deleting everything off the computer. With the push of a button the computer powered down slowly while she had gotten dressed in more appropriate attire, after all greeting someone in your undergarments was only not obscene if they were going to be taking them off, a relationship she rather not pursue any time soon, or at least not when she on the clock. A quick five minute shower left her smelling like soap, unidentifiable cheap civilian brand soap you could find anywhere and dewy air. And like practice after years of such, clothes almost appeared on her in lighting speed before she formed a hand sign and shushined in front of the tower before walking inside.

The tower’s occupants only looked at her with an appraising eye and passing glance. She dressed no more a shinobi than she did a civilian and that was exactly what she wanted. Clad in a white button up shirt with a low collar and midnight blue pants that clung to her skin were held up by a large leather belt, she was dressed quite casual for being in the tower. The plum hooded cardigan hid the sealing bandages wound tightly around her arms, her entire armory only a bit of chakra away. A pair of standard open toe footwear for shinobi held sheaths for kunai and sebon in case her unsealing wasn’t fast enough. She was prepared and she hardly looked like it, just as she preferred and others to reflect.

As per usual, the tower was buzzing as much as ever but if you weren’t careful, you wouldn’t notice the foulness in the air. Shoulders tense, hands shaking, hearts beating unsteadily. Merchants were patting their forehead with handkerchief and wished to finish their business quicker than ever. Hushed tones of gossip on the phones, different from the usual bits. Even greeting strangers seemed more personal than usual. Perhaps the genin and a select few chunnin who were picking up their missions or handing in their reports wouldn’t notice but anyone of higher rank and greater experience would notice, although she herself only acquired her new rank recently, had noticed. Some of them tried to investigate the situation and ask a few coworkers what was going on while others simply hoped for the best and went on their way, refusing to add unnecessary stress onto their burdened shoulders. How quickly that leisure leaves them will be determined within the next couple of weeks.

A secretary, same as before, waved over to the far desk and informed her that the Tsuchikage was expecting her on the top floor. The elevator would access that floor for her but this time no one would escort her inside. Alone in the compartment, it hummed softly before it jerked as gears turn. A slight tick on the panels every second or so passed by as the numbers shifted between floors as she ascended higher and higher up the tower before it stopped with a ding and the doors open. Two guards were the first sights she was greeted with. The opening of the elevator's doors made their eyes snap to them, keeping a level gaze on her watching her carefully as one could never be too careful. They were protecting the Kage of Iwa after all. Unperturbed by them she announced her presence. The blonde's eyes studied her form making sure it was a henge as Mr. Kuma's bear sniffed the air before they both seemed satisfied. Double checking the scheduled appoints, she made a hum of approval and let Jet pass. After the oak doors were opened Jet closed them before her while keeping an eye on everyone although it was an almost lazy gaze as she apprised them both. She bowed her head a bit towards Akira first then Suutei as a form of respect as she greeted them both, her voice professional although it hardly held any life or emotion in them"Hello Tschukiage-sama, and Suutei. It seems this meeting is more than a simple get together"

1093~

Akira returned to his seat as he sipped at his cold whiskey in a small crystal glass. His golden gaze watching the fire as he contemplated upcoming events. He had always been one to respond when another called for aid against cruelty and yet a part of him was hesitant. Even with Kirigakure being an ally of Iwagakure he had to wonder if he would be sending anyone who came with him to their death. Still his own power was likely to carry him through anything that might happen short of another great war. He knew Kirigakure, Iwagakure and Konohagakure all he had a standing peace treaty but that left two unknown factors. Was there a possibility that Suna, who rumor had it just had their Kage return to active duty, would join Kumo if war did come about? He didn't see how that would be tactically reasonable in a three on two fight...but what if their goal wasn't to simply fight? His country was closest to Suna and if he left there was a chance it would be ripe for looting. He wouldn't be able to take much with him with Sunagakure being an unknown. His reports didn't credit them with a huge amount of strength but he knew of one man there he could entertain being powerful enough to take down Karumo and Fukai. If Nanashi were actively around he wouldn't worry about it so much but if Daraku moved against Iwagakure...They would need to approach that tactically should it occur.

Still he wouldn't ignore a call to aid. If he did it would surely shatter relations with Kiri if it even appeared that Iwa simply had the treaty for their own benefit. Instead he would do the opposite. He couldn't spare any Jounin or up to go and he needed a couple of spec jounin to stay behind as well. Not only for the defense of the nation but also due to the sheer number of genin that needed guidance. Idly he wondered if they would try and do a full take over while he was gone. The passing thought made him smirk a little as he wondered just how they would intend to keep him out when he returned. While it was a foolish thought he was entertained by the idea of wondering just what they would devise to overwhelm his raw power. Karumo had always had is purple little eyes set on the Oracles captain position while he saw Fukai as more of a pure ANBU type. If Karumo decided to use his talents against Akira...it could be amusing. After all the four division reflected Akira and each part of him. The concealed true identity in ANBU, The raw power of taijutsu, the healing arts of Medical and lastly the keen mind and tricks of the Oracles with his Genjutsu. He doubted anyone else made the connections on that as of yet but still it amused him. He was capable of leading any of the four divisions and no one ever commented on it. Perhaps simply because he was Kage.

Still his golden gaze shifted as he could almost feel someone coming down the hall. Chunnin and genin were nothing special when it came to raw power. More dangerous than your average civilian simply because they could spit fire and split rocks with their bare hands but they tired quickly. As for their limitations most were not capable of the two levels of jutsu commonly seen that made Akira uneasy when used against him. Anything less than and A rank jutsu Akira could probably just juggernaut through but with A rank jutsu and above the abilities could level whole buildings in a single strike and destroy hillsides. S rank jutsu even more so. He actually had to approach those with caution. He felt out though and this person was about special jounin level. His chakra pathways were still a little restrained and not able to flow truly free but not enough for someone of his level to notice. Still the door swung open and Suutei spoke as Akira finished his drink before setting the drink on the desk with a clink. Something or another about a scheduled meeting but Akira was more interested in the outfit...it seemed showy somehow. A lot of extra fabric that could easily be torn off and the gloves seemed feminine in nature. Still Akira concealed an amused smile as the young man put on what appeared to be sun glasses. Oh he certainly was eager to become a celebrity and would apparently refuse to be seen as normal.

Still his golden eyes shifted back as he felt an equal power approaching his office just moments behind Suutei. A more female feel to it this time and yet there was something different in this chakra signature. Not very apparent but just a hint of madness. He knew this one as well as each chakra signature was similar to a flavor all its own. Suutei was a cookies and cream while Jet was more of a neapolitan ice cream. She showed a vanilla face but her innermost sensations were a sweet strawberry and a dark chocolate that almost showed in those strange eyes. Still she was dressed more professional like himself. almost a suit if not for the lack of tie and instead of a coat she had an open sweater. He couldn't tell if it was meant to be warm or just casual. Still neither of them seemed to be under the illusion this was a simple social call so he tapped his finger to draw both of their attention to him as his golden eyes studied each of them in turn. When he spoke his voice was still like silk but stern this time. His attention was focused solely on them now. No drink or smoke to be had while he studied their reactions to the information he was about to provide.

"This is indeed not a social call. I do not know all the details yet but it appears Kumo is arresting anyone related to Kirigakure forces at this point in time within their borders by order of their Kage. There is a growing unrest in that country that could lead to war....and they have called to us for help.....as we are their allies. I intend to respond."

2129

Unexpectedly the arrival of Jet a 19 year old newly appointed Special Jounin, he strictly remembered her needing his training as requested by Akira.  It reminded him of the actual visit as her appearance to his classroom was a short one, showing up and then disappearing before they could begin any actual lessons on close combat.  That day strangely enough she was being accompanied by Takao the former missing clan head of the Kimura Clan.  It had been quite some time since he'd seen the older male, but he was sure he had his own business to pertain to of his own.  Suutei felt the urge to address the last encounter between him and the girl, but he preferred to leave things at rest for now.  Though with Jet nothing ever set right with him whenever she was around she was far to ominous, but judging by her appearance she'd appeared as innocent as a 3 year old civilian.  Though that was her look in the first place she after all was just as good as masking her intentions as himself, yet that is what Suutei feared the most could she actually be considered an equal to him not in rank, but in strength.  "Aye Jet how's it going congratulations on your recent promotion, welcome to the ranks.  We should have a drink sometime to celebrate."  Suutei said jokingly as he stood from the bar stool and stood next to her, and slightly nudged her shoulder.  Though Suutei was pretty oblivious to what actual flirting was he usual didn't do much fraternizing with the opposite sex, that is unless he absolutely had to.  

The only girl he'd been keeping recent contact was Misao back in Sunagakure no Sato, and even then it has been hard to get into that village since his recent meeting with her mother; the former Kazekage, Gin Kuroka.  The only recent contact he made with her was through a video call using his PSEC (Personal Shinobi Electronic Communicator).  Even then sometimes their connection to one another would be intercepted by the authorities of the village.  Suutei's hatred for the village grew more and more each passing day that they held the sweet and polite girl captive in her own village.  The frustration of it all Suutei wished he could go just to speak to the Kazekage who just recently returned after being missing for months.  Which by far was completely irresponsible especially dealing with corrupted public officials who abused their power for wealth.  The country surely was in need of a reform, but that problem would be addressed in due time the most he could do was wait it out.  Till the day he could see Misao again, and actually hold her hands and touch her soft face.  The sweet sensations of the balancing of his universe through the touch of her lips against his was enough to send his soul into the cosmos.

Akira seemed pretty calm even with an issue as serious as this one.  Potential warring villages could spell disaster for any future developments via international trade.  An actual war between the two villages could spell disaster, the super powerful Raikage vs the equally if not superior power of the Mizukage could cause quite a considerable amount of collateral damage.  Attempting to throw and smash pieces together on how this ordeal could have happened.  Why exactly would Kumogakure hold Kirigakure civilians and ninja captive within their walls, unless their was an incident of murder or something along those lines.  It was rather upsetting that no further intel could be provided, but his guess was that it was for the best though he could only fathom a war during these times.  The world had been fairly peaceful from any international incidents for centuries, and the last major incident being the war against Seven Bells.  Though the call to war actually made him get a bit more anxious, and just a little scared that Konohagakure no Sato may be involved.

"Kazako-sama if we are to provide the support do you really believe we can leave the village defenseless.  I'm all for supporting our allies in Kirigakure, but I do believe we deserve a bit more intel so we can at least assess a proper strategy to provide them the manpower."

Then he came up with the debate as to whether they were properly fortified against any surprise onslaughts.  Suutei was a bit worried on their defenses, and the fact the only possible people left to defend the village would be Karumo and Fukai.  Who did a very adequate job as a contestant in the past Chunnin exams.  Who he also wished to congratulate before on his promotion, but this was not important at this time.  Another troubling point was where exactly did Sunagakure no Sato stand on this issue.  They never did have a good history with picking good sides in conflicts and this could cause essentially another screw up where they make the wrong decision on who they side with.  Although it would make Suutei delighted to actually go to war with Sunagakure it could also cause Misao and her family to be caught in the crossfire of this conflict.  Even though he cannot physically be with Misao, it still is his obligation to Gin that he ensures her daughter is safe even if it means it costs him his life.  Though he still know she has adequate shinobi who may still be a Genin it is hard for him to help her improve her abilities with her being so frail.

"This is actually quite troubling news, but do you have any intel on Sunagakure at all the most I have heard is the returning of their missing Kazekage.  With that said have you made any recent contact with them I know I am asking a lot of questions, but it is for the safety of the people of Iwagakure.  It is my duty to do so, just as it is your responsibility as the Kazekage and Jet-chan's as well."

[2033]

"If we may speak" Jet interrupted after Suutei voiced his concerns for Iwa’s defense. She wasn’t quite sure either knew many details of the situation but it was best to voice her opinion now rather than later."In some way or another, an incident occurred between that of Kumo and Kiri. As no deaths were reported by either side it was not a duel so that rules out assault and murder. Yet the innocent lives are being held hostage but for what. No kiri genin could cause such a commotion for such an outbreak so it must be someone of higher ranks, chuunin would be pushing it since the only chuunin active were from countries aside the two of them, neither being mentioned. If anyone traveled it would be for the exams as it is the main purpose making the excuse for a few spec. jounin and others of equal or higher rank to join in the festivities while keeping a close eye on their saplings" Jet began to pace a bit, it was always a bit difficult for her to remain still so she leaned on the wall keeping herself from moving by crossing her arms over her chest though she rubbed the cotton fabric on her fingertips as she gnawed softly at her bottom lip.

"There were about two squads worth of kiri shinobi in kumo, one lead by the seven swordsman Daemon Shikyo, and the other a former contestant, Nozomi Himitsu. Daemon however sustained injuries on his journey there and was being nursed back to health, he hasn't been sighted since aside from getting back to health. We have no  word of the exact details however this entire affair would've passed much sooner if he were involved. Flynt is no fool and most likely handled the Shikyo's situation by now"

"That would leave the Himitsu." Jet pushed herself off the wall looking to the ceiling and stretching her arms out a bit until the popped as she pushed her toes up to stretch her muscles feeling the ache leave her and a new energy fill her. She sighed with relief then grinned a bit, though it looked somewhat like a smirk "While it might be easy to dismiss her and suspect the Shikyo more, don’t" . That last bit was directed more towards Suutei than Akira. Jet paused for a moment as she went back to leaning on the wall putting one hand in her front pocket rolling a marble around her fingers and the other behind her head, rubbing the scalp as she thought back to her files. "During the chuunin exams in Takigakure, she dueled multiple shinobi however when she was nearing the finals she fell from grace after a duel with Ryuzoji Kaekio, one of Kumo's shinobi"

"From watching the fight you could see there was more then tension between the two of them and it's simple to put two and two together to see their true connection" Besides they were pretty open about dating was what went unsaid as she remember seeing the pair at the water park where she was causing some mischief.

"Perhaps the long distance was straining their relationship and they needed something to fix it. They definitely didn't want to break off the relationship as they weren't exactly hiding their status so perhaps a compromise had to be made. Either one left their post to join the other or they would both flee..." Jet’s voice dropped off as she was absorbed in thought processing everything she said and her past experiences being in the same vicinity as them granted most of her time in Taki was spent either drunk, high, or being a general grade a bitch. Good thing she was careful not to get caught, alright there was that one time with that senju but it can hardly be counted. What matter was this entire thing it sounded...wow. She chuckled softly hardly amused as she pinched the bridge of her nose feeling her pulse rise a bit in annoyance. "Ha, never thought we would find ourselves wrapped into one of those cheesy romance novel plots"

"How do you wish to respond to the situation sir? We will go to aide Kiri on your orders but what of our defenses? Nanashi is no longer a reliable source and we do not have any jounin to rely on. A couple spec jounin sure but the genin are numerous and not versed in the ways of war or even handling situations like these. And what of Suna? We may have an agreement with Suna however there is bad blood between them and Kiri so they may not like us siding with them and may be persuaded to join Kumo's cause"

1893~

Akira listened as each of them in turn spoke their minds and considered options as if he had not done so already. His golden gaze settled on them each in turn as if to remind them he was Kage as that gaze seemed to see all and know all. He didn't bother flexing his chakra as they were high enough level to sense the raw energy in him. Still the gaze would settle on each of them and force eye contact. It was such a gaze that great men and women had averted from that connection before. No one wanted all their secrets on the table and their innermost hidden parts of themselves. Yet those golden orbs seemed to rip away anything hiding such parts of ones person and reveal it like an open book of which Akira could read freely. It usually made one wonder just how much he knew and was simply allowing to go by him. In this instance though it was an act of pure authority. He sat there in his leather chair like a throne as a single finger tapped impatiently on the leather and that single sound seemed to be all he would allow for the moment. The silence drawing on before his finger finally stopped tapping. For him it was a practice of patience. Almost like meditation he would study a person and busy his fingers instead of snapping at someone or simply breaking their jaw for speaking in such a way as to suggest he hadn't considered these things. As if he were a fool. Still he spoke in a patient tone still as soft as silk.

"Suna is indeed unknown but for the time being they have their own issues. Aside from greed they have no reason to attack Iwa and have to know doing so would cause certain doom to them. Not to mention we recently extended and olive branch to them. At the time they were not interested but it showed Iwa was willing to provide them with anything they should need. There would be no reason to take it violently. The risk far outweighs the reward in this case for them as any attack on Iwa while we were away would be returned to them ten fold by both Iwa and Kiri who will now be indebted to us. As for Kumo...they likely have their plates full with Kiri. Sending a force to Iwa while dealing with the country with a stronger military than them would cause them a certain loss in any battle. As for who to send, Nanashi isn't active at the moment and all we have are special jounin. I need someone to stay here and take on students of which Karumo already has responsibilities for with his own squad and running the university. Fukai will serve him loyally as Karumo is his clan leader. Suutei, you have been asked here because I value your talent in a fight. If nothing else you have raw power and a member of your clan is never bad to have on your side in a fight. Jet, you just ranked up and while still potent are perhaps not on the same level. However your knowledge of the situation could prove useful to me. Just sending two special Jounin to a Kage level threat would hardly seem like we are sending any help at all and so I will be going. I would like two guards but I won't force you two to come along to what could be your death. However, I will ask it of you."

2733

“Well if it’s all the same to you Akira-sama I am willing to lay my life on the line for you and this village.  Just tell me when it’s time to head out and I’ll be ready no other questions.”  Suutei spoke with a stern tone as if unphased by Akira’s claim of his life being in possible danger and that this could be a deadly mission.  Though he was still pretty strung up on how he complimented his fighting capabilities, and he seemed to have gotten a big head.  Though that wasn’t in Suutei’s nature he’d take the time to train with Jet-chan to be sure she was just as ready as he was.  Though the intel she presented was a lot more he expected from her, and it was almost as if Akira-sama was surprised as well.  Suutei thought that he’d need to play things safe even though Jet was his comrade he still had a bad feeling about the girl.  Flopping down on one of the couches within his office he took a long look at this Jet character, removing his glasses revealing his shimmering crystal blue eyes.  They were as radiant but rather than instilling fear in someone's very soul his eyes held something different, eyes like his brought peace to those who gazed upon them.  Ultimately allowing him into their innermost circle, but he knew this Jet girl was different that was for sure.

Suutei had never been to the Village Hidden in the Mist so it was sure to be something of an adventure on it’s own.  Though he was not there for his own accord, and had one thing to handle which was to ensure the safety of Akira-sama though he knew the man could do everything himself it still was not customary for a Kage to travel without aid.  This was one of the reasons he’d brought along the family sword Windblaze, and it had been quite some time since he’d brushed up on his sword skills.  It’d been some while since he’d used a sword not since he was younger and practiced with his uncle, but that was such a long time ago.  Getting his thoughts together about what he’d need to bring with him if he needed anything, but all that this called for was the necessities.  Tapping his foot on the stone floor causing an echo within the small office as Akira-sama sat in silence as Jet-chan concluded her briefing with the two of them.  Suutei thought her intelligence gathering was on a whole other level than his own, but he had his own strengths so there was nothing he could be jealous about.  ”Jet-chan that information is actually quite useful though I am surprised you were able to gather as much during such a short time period.  I see where your strong points are indeed, but I still need to test your combat skills though I suppose now isn’t the best time.”

[2550]

Wow never knew that giving out information apparently is disrespectful. Anyone who would have listened to him speak would’ve felt sharing information would be helpful. While the thought that he already had known this information hadn’t crossed her mind, his attitude wasn’t. Perhaps she was out of line but even if he had known, sharing such information wouldn’t hurt, reviewing for them and well keeping Suutei in the loop too. However Jet was not one to be so petty, at least not for long. She remained silent as her superior made the air thick with tension, his golden gaze was one of authority that not only demanded respect but earned it. It had made her all the more curious of what secrets that man had kept hidden. What sparked the fire inside him that molded him into the man he was today, he was a forged blade of impeccable degree but who tempered his metal, who fan the flames and doused them in turn. Perhaps, maybe soon, she would have the opportunity to study the man. Of course not in her typical manner, he was a creature of pedigree and rarity, a king with profound influence and the skill to back it up. Even if his chakra didn’t flare she could feel the raw energy flowing off him in waves. It was his character that made him so daunting and made him so mesmerizing. The only thing in his gaze was respect, respect and interest. The moment she became interested in something, it was hard to let it go. “If we could not be of use to you Sir, we would hardly be worth our salt” She smiled earnestly bowing her head just a bit in agreement with Suutei’s statement. “The live of a shinobi is a fleeting one, might as well make it worthwhile?” It was a harsh truth but it was not a truth she would shy from. While this village hadn’t done a thing to earn her loyalty (but rather lose it) she did not wish to lose it all because of an haughty man’s temper. Speaking of such men she gave Suutei a look of acceptance "When we depart, we can make plans to spar once in the Mist Village. Off duty of course"

2289~

Akira paused as they both provided consent to give their lives if need be. It was an honorable thing to say and part of him was proud of how they did so with no hesitations and yet he was concerned for both of them. Far as he knew neither of them had experienced a war before as he had. Honor was tested in war in ways battle never knew. Typically those who stuck to their honor died and those who fled let others die. He doubted either of these two had intentions to run once any fighting began should it happen but he also was not eager to bury either of them. It was a heavy decision to take them with him to this new place that threatened to soak the grounds in blood. However it had been their choice to come with and both accepted the terms that their very life was a possible cost. However he would not allow them to perish if he could help it. There were very few things that could stop him when he had a purpose in his mind and his purpose was to keep both of them alive. If he had to tear apart armies with his bare hands he would.

Still he rose from his seat and moved over to the coat rack. His legs carrying him gracefully and at a common pace before he stopped in front of it and reached out with his right hand. His fingertips resting on the long coat there. It caught the light and glistened a little which might appear odd since it was cloth. Something about the coat was different. The truth of this coat was one he doubted very many people in the world knew. It was crafted by the crystal user and Kage killer named Tame. The long coat was perhaps the most powerful light armor when it came to basic combat in the world. If used correctly there was no attack that could tear it or remotely harm the user within without chakra reinforcement. Han'ongengō was its name but its translation was Lord Fortune. If it came to a battle Akira would be invincible unless chakra was used. If it was he had alternate means of defense against that. However a battle where only he could do any damage with a basic attack would be heavily in his favor. As for his own offense. His fingers drifted to the curved hilts of his twin daggers. The Dragon Daggers. Said to have been crafted from a dragons fangs and rumored to have the same cutting power as the famous fang weapon. He had never used the glistening weapons with their black hilts but if ever a situation called for it he would use them now.

Still he pulled the daggers from where they rested and spun them feeling the weight before sliding them into the holsters on his chest. They were considerably long for daggers but he managed them with skill. With them resting along his chest down to his sides he would return to his coat. Speaking as he slid it off the coat rack and onto his own shoulders. It fit in nicely with his suit in a natural way. Beneath it had been his Kage hat of which he had only worn once. "We leave immediately. Grab what gear you need and meet me on the main road to Kirigakure at full speed. I will begin the travel on my own at a walking pace so you should be able to catch up soon easily. If you change your minds simply do not come and I will understand. Oh and Suutei...Jet is your equal in rank now. You can not give her orders though it appears she is willing to accept your contest. Do keep in mind she is likely about as strong as yourself if not stronger. If you intend to challenge her don't let your guard down." With that he turned leaving his hat behind. He didn't care to give notice of his travel to Kiri in case it was intercepted...Ayakashi would know of his arrival the moment he hit her border check.

3434
Exit thread

http://www.narutosaga.com/t18158-the-tsuchikage-s-training-invite-no-kill

6729/9000 Taijutsu to SS

10,116/9000 Taijutsu Trained to SS

OOC: Will be adding more to this for details and needed IC information. There won't be any dialogue though.

With his orders being clear and his intentions with Jet being put on hold till this whole situation in Kirigakure. Suutei thought about whether he'd need anything else that wouldn't be in his travel pack that he always kept ready since giving up the nomadic lifestyle. It had been quite awhile since he'd travelled outside of Iwagakure except to Kumogakure for the Chunnin Exams. Looking over at Jet he placed his sunglasses back on his face and instantly he was gone in a flash.

[Exit Thread]

Jet stifled a yawn and streched her back, her arms reaching above her while her bones popped into place reliving her of an ache. Perhaps some stretching was in order before she left. Wiping a stray tear from her eye she saw her kage arise from his throne to a coat rack. The coat itself did not appear anything special. From the stitching and quality it was certainly high end however her eye narrowed in the slightest with an almost vile glow as it caught the light, glistening a little which was odd for cloth. During in her travels in her younger years, she had visited various parts of their world, their group was not privy to roam only the Elemental Nations, but expanded further and as such she has her own fair share of knowledge including textiles. Their fibers as whether it was woven or man made, their grain as whether it were straight grain-cross grain-or on the bias, the weave that determines how the fibers interlock, the quality whether it was common place and cheap or exotic and expensive, she knew it all but for the life of her she could not place what material that long coat was made from and it caused  it to seem more than just a regular garment. Well if it truly was something spectacular aside from making a man look sharp she will see it in due time.

What did catch her eye on the other hand were the beautiful crafted daggers. A black handle worn but not weathered from age. A blade glimmering with a deadly shine on its fine edge. The overall shape was like a fang and the cravings ancient, most definitely from a time long since past. It made them seem almost ancient in desgin that is but it retained a timeless beauty. There were unusual and weighted but Akira handled them with ease despite the awkward length, it seemed to suit him just as the long coat had. She could only see them wielded by a man of his stature yet why couldn't she help the nagging feeling in her head, as if she needed to remembered something from long ago. Something. . .fantastical. Huh...perhaps Maki would know. The Uzumaki had always had a penchant for fine weaponry as she herself and crafted some wonderful pieces of art herself though the woman would remark that the daggers looked similar to that of a. . .fang. A fang. Wait. Were those seriously those fangs? The Dragon Fangs, why those were infamous blades of tall tale; they were said to be crafted from a dragon's fang. While Jet did not craft blades she did wield them and has always admired those of the highest quality and those were definitely it. Wonderfully no one noticed her almost staring at them with aw and if they did she hoped they ignored it. After Akira sheathed them did she blink returning to the mortal realm. Once they were given their orders she nodded putting a her hand to her heart bowing her head to her kage then departed, heading out the door.

2812~
Trained: REA B-B3 (2400/2400)
412 remaining~
[EXIT]