"THE HELL WITH THIS!"

This amount of paperwork was killing him! With a bit of his anger allowed to be unfolded at the nearby wall, Sanosuke let loose a defiant punch that was loud enough to echo throughout the entire administration building. Now a gaping hole that was about 1 foot wide was seen. With his sharpened perception, Sanosuke could hear the debris hit the ground with small ticks on the mountain winding path that would lead to the administration building itself.  Unfortunately the shaking of his punch upset the balance of papers that were nearly stacked so perfectly upwards and caused them to fall right on the face of the fallen, young Raikage. That stack of paper that he had accidentally knocked over fell right on top of him knocking him back to the ground. His head smacked into the cold tile floor of the office building as he began seeing stars. What had awoken him was the sound of tiny bells flying around him. Navi was floating above him with a force field around a stack of papers so that she can move it despite her size. The glowing blue wasp put it on the table and looked at her partner with disappointment in the disguise of a sad head shake.

"Don't you give me that look." Sanosuke grumbled as he fixed himself up from the ground and dusted himself off. These robes were stupidly easy to stain. He looked towards the slightly large fountain that was right behind his desk and in between the two gigantic bay windows that would allow him to look into the city. The windows would only open with the usage of chakra, allowing only certain personale to get in. Taking a deep breath, Sanosuke masterfully manipulated the water to clean the dirt stains from his robes and then placed the murky water out of the window with a simply, yet artful swish of his arms. When he was done, Sanosuke went back to getting the papers off the ground. A majority of them were in regards to the crisis going on at the Ryuzoji compound. Apparently the clan was close to go on the brink of civil war. This all started because of the assassination of their clan head Ieyasu Ryuzoji. Multiple whom were close to the deceased believes that his son, ex-ANBU captain and former Kumogakure Sannin, Bokuden Ryuzoji was responsible for his death. There was evidence of this being true as well, since the murder and the time of his disappearance was linked. Either way something had to be done.

With all the paperwork being picked up from the ground, Sanosuke sat back down on his chair and lined up the paper so it was once more in a stack. Lacing his fingers together like a net so that he can place his chin on his hands, Sanosuke took a deep breath in and figured out what he should do. This situation had to be dealt with. A civil war between the Ryuzoji clan will only weaken Kumogakure's strongest clan, and thus weaken Kumo's military force significantly. There's also the possibility of this civil war engulfing all of Kumo, turning it into a war zone. A thought appeared in his head as Sanosuke thought of Reika smiling at Sanosuke. Her spirit kissing him one last time after their fight during his Trial By Thunder to become a recognized Raikage to the spirits of all the other spirits of Raikage's past. He had promised not only her, but his predecessors that he would protect Kumogakure with his undying spirit.

Opening his eyes with new resolve in them, Sanosuke looked straight ahead as though he was no longer looking at the door directly in front of him; more like looking into the future without any hesitation "Carolina, get Kenji here at once." Sanosuke said curtly to one of his ANBU agents that was stationed to protect him while he was in his office. Even though they were annoying as hell to be around, they were the perfect messengers. The kunoichi appeared at Sanosuke's side in a shroud of clouds that disappeared to reveal a woman wearing a mask that looked to resemble a beetle. She bowed low to her leader, at recognition of her leader's choice of ANBU. Normally Sanosuke would have looked at the cleavage coming from the large breasts of the female ANBU agent or the finely trained ass that was in tight black fabric when he bowed. These were not the times for Sanosuke to abuse his power as Raikage to be a pervert, it was time for action. A blast of wind swept Sanosuke's hair as she disappeared with the body flicker technique to fetch Kenji and bring him here.

You said you would be back in four days time. What happened? Do you know how worried I was?!

Teetering on being distraught. This intense display of emotion was not something Kenji was keen to handling. But he did alright for himself.

I'm sorry you were worried... but I told you this was a dangerous mission, and I also informed you that there were many unknowns going in. That is why they sent me, a fine shinobi who can handle any obstacle... but it wasn't easy. As you know, it took me over a week to return as opposed to the projected 4 days. A mellowing film rushed to her eyes. Katy baby, don't cry. First you're mad at me then you're sad... you can be really wet and dry sometimes. Her finger was thrust into his chest. I hate... when you quote my songs... I feel like you're parodying them and making fun of me.

Old habits. Kenji shrugged.

They had finally settled down, and moved to the kitchen table where they enjoyed a meal in near solace, but tension between the recently married couple could only be settled one way... A week was a long time, and now the heat and passion that had boiled couldn't quite be remedied any way. Kenji raised his spoon to his mouth as his eyes stayed on Katy's. Those leafy green eyes was nearly enough to put Kenji under Genjutsu. Kenji let his spoon slide through his fingers and drop into the bowl of chowder. With a dreamy gaze, I'm suddenly craving something else. Something I couldn't find on my entire trip. Katy walked over, swaying with every step, causing Kenji to lose himself more and more in lust. As she reached him and latched on to his shoulders, using the broad muscles to pull herself in... Kenji shinobi trained sense alerted him to the arrival of someone outside. Katy could tell something was wrong by his expression, so she delayed her advance. What is it? Then a knock answered both their questions.

An unwelcomed pest is who it is.

Please, oh PLEASE... give a good reason not to reduce you to bone fragments. He spoke through the closed door.

I am ANBU... the Raikage needs you. It is urgent.

Kenji peered through his peephole. Well aren't you lucky.

Kenji turned around and caught the glare of his wife. Is that a woman??

I don't know. Kenji leaned closer to the door and whispered. Body flicker body flicker body flicker. He then opened the door wide, and there was no one there. I guess the agent already left. You know how those shadow lurkers are.

Yes I do. She said emphatically, her very husband being a shadow lurker. Kenji's cheeks turned red. Uh... uh. Exactly, and that's why I'm worried... Just promise me you're not going on another mission, not so soon anyway. I'm meeting with the Raikage, there's no telling what I will be asked to do. Whatever it may be though... you will understand. She scoffed and stomped back to the table to finish her lunch. You're going to get it good. Me. Yes you! About time I get it.

The village was on edge of late... including Kenji. Things weren't the same since the death of the Reika, and then following soon after, the vanishing of Bokuden. Kenji respected Reikai of course, and they had many business talks about some of her property that Kenji was interested in purchasing. Unfortunately said items were deemed to dangerous to be put in the, at the time, Jonin's hands. Other than that, she seemed like a strong and lovely woman. She was near and dear to many people, especially Sanosuke, the current Raikage who he was going to meet. The funeral sparked many emotions from the Sannin. Mostly anger, as he wasn't there to protect the protector of his home. The second recent event that had Kumogakure veering from the norm was the mysterious leave of Bokuden. Never one to give much information about himself or what he is doing was Bokuden. Thus, it shouldn't have surprised him that he would pull such a stunt. Then again, Kenji was hoping Bokuden would have the decency to give Kenji one last battle to cement the status of their rivalry. But no, he would decide to leave abruptly. Kenji could only deduce that being inferior to him became too much... forcing him to flee his own home in shame... of being bested in every way by a shinobi that grew up on a rice farm. Whatever his reason, his exit triggered a tumultuous chain of events for his clan, the Ryuzoji. Kenji never liked them and kept his distance, but he couldn't help but to hear the rumors swirling around.

As Kenji reached the steps of the Admin building leading up to the Raikage's office. The ANBU agent appeared beside him. He wasn't startled, he knew even the Sannin of the village needed an ANBU escort to see the Raikage. Together they entered Sano's office. Kenji smirked as he gave the office a once over. I like what you've done with the place. BUT! Sano, you know better than to send attractive female ANBU agents to my house. Katy. Hormones.

So, you've summoned the greatest sage in all of the shinobi world, lightning in the flesh, the trickster.... Kenji went on for two more minutes with titles he had gave himself. So what's so urgent that you call me in right after I return from a high profile S rank mission?



Wordcount: 957

Silence in closed the office of the Raikage as Sanosuke began to ponder on the choice that he would have to make in order to restore peace to not only the Ryuzoji Clan but also the effects of the Ryuzoji clan's civil war that is now beginning to trickle into his village. As of now this war was beginning to have its effects on the village. People, even citizens, were looking to be caught in the crossfire of this war. It was going to get really nasty considering all the members of the Ryuzoji clan were fairly experienced swordsmen. The clan was also fairly large, it rivaled the size of Konohagakure's Senju Clan. So if this whole situation between the Ryuzoji clan blew out of proportions, then Sanosuke was sure that it would look similar to that of two military regiments clashing against one another.  Should they actually fight against one another, it would shake Kumo to its route. If they went on like this, Sanosuke would have to get the shinobi under his rule into the fray just adding more chaos and fire to power struggle to the feud that Bokuden had started from his actions. It irked him beyond belief at what he had done.

If this fight continued, Sanosuke just wondered just how it would affect his student. Kaekio was a member of the Ryuzoji clan as well. Although she refuses to explain what happened to her parents or how she is linked to the Ryuzoji clan's affairs. But should this clan affair get any larger then it might have to make the young blue haired kunoichi have to make a serious decision. Be an active member of the Ryuzoji civil war that will be the opposite end of the Kumogakure military, or assist in being under his control to put an end to the civil war. Either way she would be considered an outcast. Sanosuke couldn't let that happen. Something had to have been done before this would get out of hand. Navi flew around his body and finally levitated right above his right shoulder to comfort him in the decision he had to make. The door swung open to reveal a certain blue haired shinobi being accompanied by the same ANBU agent that he had sent to fetch the lion sage. "Thank you Carolina. You're dismissed." Sanosuke said as he signaled for Kenji to come closer to his desk. She closed the door after him and bowed low before disappearing in a cloudy style body flicker technique. It left the two high leveled shinobi in one room together.

He would let Kenji have some words first to speak so that he can take in the fact that this was his office as the Raikage. Even though he was no longer a sannin, the two of them have been rather close due to the fact that they fought together in the Seven Bells War; brothers in arms if you may. Though Kenji has always caught Snaosuke to be someone that would hide in his emotions, and not be someone to make jokes on the regular. Maybe he was wrong about the man. Chuckling to the joke that Kenji had said, Sanosuke smiled at the sannin. "I'll be sure to keep that in mind. By the way how is Katy? Sorry I couldn't make it to the wedding, I hope you guys got my wedding gift." Sanosuke said to make the conversation a little less formal.

Boasting was something new that Sanosuke didn't think that Kenji would do. Turns out there was more to the sannin and ANBU member than meets the eye. So Kenji was now curious on what Sanosuke had called him here for. Navi looked at Sanosuke and the Raikage looked back at his partner/advisor before preparing himself. "The main reason I've asked you here is regarding the Ryuzoji clan's crisis situation. I believe that you know the details of it right? Sanosuke asked. He then got up from his chair and walked over to the bay windows with his arms folded behind his back to look outside of Kumogakure. The village was so peaceful. Though it took a lot for the village to recognize him as a leader, they had done so in flying colors. He couldn't let this peace go to waste so easily. "Kenji, recite for me the 6 stages of civil war." This was something that all ANBU were to know. Hell some jounin even knew of these stages. It was important to know these in case a civil war broke out and they knew how to protect the village properly. The stages goes as follow: Stage 1, unbalance in power; Stage 2, disagreement; Stage 3, the choosing of factions; Stage 4, tension; Stage 5, conflict; and finally Stage 6 contamination, of which the civil war between the factions will spread to the innocent.

While Kenji will be reciting the stages, Sanosuke will allow him to soak in each stage and the gravity of the situation. After he is finished, Sanosuke will take a deep breath for silence to pass between the two shinobi. That is when the Raikage will speak. "As of now. we're in Stage 4. The faction that is in support of Bokuden's choice is the far more violent faction and the less rational. So I have gathered you here to come with me to put down all quarreling between the factions. We're going to end this before the situation can escalate to the other stages. Sanosuke revealed to Kenji while looking outside. His finger touched the glass as he zoomed his eyes through the village like a telescope. There was a hidden meaning to what his words contained, and was sure that Kenji would find them out. Turning back to face Kenji, the bay windows opened with just the smallest amount of chakra coming from Sanosuke to allow it to happen. Wind danced through the room as Sanosuke's silver eyes locked with the sannin's brown eyes. If his words wouldn't reach him, then how serious his gaze was would mean that none of what he was implying they do was not a joking matter in the slightest. His Raikage cloak fluttered in the wind, it paid him no mind as his attention was focused on Kenji. He had to make sure that they were on the same wavelength. There will be no turning back once they begin, Kenji would have to make his choice.

"Do you understand me Kenji?"

The Raikage, Sano, inquired on Katy's well being and if they received his wedding gift. "Katy is fine and your gift was very thoughtful." After the polite line of questioning pertaining to Kenji's recent engagement. The tone and direction of the meeting would soon turn to more pressing matters. Sanosuke was now getting to the reason for the meeting. Kenji couldn't say he was surprised by the topic... being the tumult dwelling throughout the Ryuzoji clan, it was becoming something of a spectacle of late, a major topic for gossip around the village. Warriors like Kenji Sano were well aware that the talks were more than rumor. The time had apparently come for a plan of action to be executed against the interclan uprising. Kenji would be lying if he said he didn't already have an idea.

The two began talking about the stages of war, and where Kumogakure currently was on the ladder. Tensions were definitely growing tighter, and some relief was in demand. Kenji spat out the stages of war that were drilled into his head as a member of the espionage unit. The Raikage was playing with his words, dancing around the obvious that he was asking the great Kenji to equip his Hane once more and turn all the Ryuzoji to waste for threatening to compromise the safety of all of Kumogakure... As he thought on what was being implied a little longer he realized that he was being asked to carry out something a little less drastic.

"All diplomatic methods have been tried I trust, so now it is time to forcibly subdue the Ryuzoji for the safety of the village. I understand that those in favor of Bokuden have grown louder, and that my katana is a prime candiate to silence them. This matter now has my upmost attention, after all, the well being of all the villagers are at stake."

The air from the now open window swirled around the Raikage. Trading glares now, making sure they were on the same page were Kenji and Sanosuke. This was a serious matter indeed. The only question remaining now was how exactly would they begin the putting down of the Ryuzoji feud. "Where do we begin Raikage?" And another question that lingered in Kenji's mind was what the plan was for---

A loud roar snaked up to the open window and bit Kenji's ear drum. The venom numbed him. Both the Raikage and Kenji both looked out the window to see Kasfara, the giant blue lion; also, Kenji's right hand man. He shouted from the depths. "Katy is trying to paint me pink again and take me on tour! Get down here now and stop her!!" Kasfara was very gentle with Katy, and if she insisted on something Kasfara couldn't resist, so it was always up to Kenji to get involved and stop Katy from taking advantage of Kasfara. "Cant right now, go find a hiding place for the moment!" Kasfara then darted off.

"Sorry about that. Back to the task at hand. Where do we start?"

Training: 1477

Sanosuke nodded as Kenji had given his answer to what they will do to the radical faction of the Ryuzoji clan. Of course Kenji would have agreed to his Raikage's orders that he was given. After all, being an ANBU agent that lives to serve their Raikage, Kenji was bound by his word to him. Even if he didn't want to follow his orders, Sanosuke's word was law that he would have no choice but to follow. Kenji was a friend and an ally, Sanosuke of course wouldn't reduce himself to just take advantage of his higher position in the hierchy of Kumogakure no Sato. If Kenji wouldn't have agreed tot he task that he had given her, Sanosuke would have asked another ANBU agent to come with him. But the Raikage was definitely glad that Kenji agreed to come with him. Being with an ANBU agent he knew on a personal level sounds a lot better than to do a mission like this with someone that didn't have the synergy he shared with Kenji.

A roar pierced his ear drums as Sanosuke looked to see what had made that racket outside. Kenji seemed to be curious as well as the both of them looked to see where the roar had come from. It looked to be a lion that had splatters of pink paint on its fur. Sanosuke tried to figure out exactly how Kenji knew this lion. Was it possible that this was the sannin's partner? Navi floated over to Sanosuke's shoulder and then flew out of the window floating over the rooftop. "And I thought that the lions were to be proud beasts of the jungle. It looks like you're a disappoint me to your own kind, if you're terrified of the color pink" Navi teased gleefully as she floated around the lion just out of its reach in case the lion would make swipes at her. It was an annoying habit of Navi to take the time to tease others. Sanosuke was already used to it, but to others she had teased might actually be a bit harder to not completely vocalize their anger at the flying wasp.

"Navi get back here!" Sanosuke shouted at his own partner. Navi looked at Sanosuke and from his abnormally strong eyesight, Sanosuke could see that the wasp stuck her tongue at him before returning to his side and back in the office. With the  lion the scampered off, Sanosuke couldn't help but chuckle a bit. That lion scampering through the streets in splattered pink paint certainly did do its job in relieving some of the stress he was experiencing with comic relief. But he really did need to get back to business. Walking back to his table, Sanosuke sat right back to his desk and looking through the papers about the Ryuzoji crisis. When he finally found it, Sanosuke placed it on the table. He then got another piece of paper. The paper was blank and white that held nothing on it. Sanosuke placed his finger on the document that he got from the stack and applied chakra to it. Soon his finger was glowing with blue energy that could be seen from Kenji. Very gently, Sanosuke transfer the blue chakra he got from the document to the blank paper. The chakra went into the paper forming a seal on the paper very shortly before it vanished and transformed the blank paper into an exact copy of the paper he had gotten from his table.

Sanosuke held the copied document and saw that it was slightly warm to the touch. It was as though a copy machine had copied the paper. He took the document and handed it to Kenji. "I have asked for the Ryuzoji clan that serves Bokuden to meet with me under the pretense of Kumogakure wanting to end the quarrel between the factions. I will give them one more chance for them to see reason before we act." Sanosuke explained. The paper that he had given Kenji had the information of the key members of the faction, their abilities and their guards. He had shinobi looking at the group to see what they are capable of. Each of them are strong enough to give a Kumogakure shinobi of the jounin caliber a run for their money when they are armed with a katana. There will be a total of 6 members at the meeting. "This paper lists everything you need to know about the compound of the meeting and other pieces of information. The document will explode in 15 minutes." the document also held the exact time when they will be meeting the radicals as well.

"You are dismissed."

---

The sun was well down and past the mountains of Kumogakure, as nightfall fell upon the village hidden in the clouds. Sanosuke stood before the entrance of the Ryuzoji compound. It was a rather large estate. His kage cloak clung to this skin as his hat was partially masked his face. At his side was Navi floating steadily. She knew just how serious they were about this. And Navi was also there for Sanosuke for moral support. As long as she was at his side, the Raikage knew that he would be just fine. The estate was towards the outskirts of Kumogakure no Sato, so it was in a very quiet place along the mountains. A few sparks of static popped in the air, it was harmless and at most will tickle one's skin. He was currently 5 meters away from the guard to let him in. He had arranged a meeting with Bokuden's faction to give them another chance to see reason, if everything was going according to plan, then all of them should be here. Kenji will be right at his side the entire time. He should be beside him right now as well.

"Are you ready Kenji?" Soon the two will approach the guard to gain entrance to the Ryuzoji estate.

Returning to the issue of the Ryuzoji crisis, Sanosuke started looking through documents. Kenji assumed the document he was looking for contained information that was important to them proceeding. More than interested was Kenji, as to just how they were going to go about the task of… quieting the ruckus between the two Ryuzoji factions. Violence was a must, but what kind? Espionage, which was what Kenji specialized in, being a team member and team leader of the Espionage Squad as well as an ANBU operative. Or would the Kage want Kenji and him to go direct. The thoughts of getting back into action occupied Kenji as Sanosuke continued to look for the documents. Ready now was the Raikage… or was he? On the table lied a blank sheet of paper. Squinting with all his might, straining to his limit, but nothing, he could see nothing. His shifted a few times between the paper and Sanosuke, giving him time to explain or for something else to happen. This was one of Kenji’s greatest characteristics, his patience and his avoidance of jumping to conclusions. The Raikage, extended his finger towards the blank piece of paper. A blue energy began to emit from his finger. Instinctively, Kenji lifted an eyebrow at the display.

The energy was then applied to the document, forming a seal. After a brief moment, the seal disappeared and it left behind a document full of text on it. Resting in Kenji’s hands now was the document. Some domain knowledge of the situation was now presented by the Raikage. One of the Ryuzoji factions, the one led by Bokuden or at least following his principles, was set to meet with the Raikage. According to Sanosuke, he was giving them the impression that the meeting was to end the conflict between the two quarreling sects of the Ryuzoji clan. Kenji now left the Raikage’s office so he could read the document and begin preparation for the meeting. Before leaving, the Sannin was urged to digest the information now and quickly, since the document was set to detonate after 15 minutes. Scanning vigorously, Kenji saw the key members of the Ryuzoji faction he was set to encounter soon. There were 6 members in total. As Kenji read on, they were all elite shinobi, nothing less was to be expected. Each member was always accompanied by two gaurds. The guards were newly selected Chuunin, and it was apart of their initiaition to guard the 6 strongest members of the clan for a period of time. The 6 members and the gaurds were all experts in kenjutsu. The chuunin had shown prowess in commonily known raiton and suiton Ninjutsu techniques up to semi dangerous potential (B rank). The 6 Jounin members had acces to just about every level of raiton and suition technique known. They were all incredibly smart and experienced. All of them had years of experience in killing and dealing with threats of all sorts... they were the pinnacle of professionalism, so a fight with them would be epic. 6 Chuunin guards, 6 trained killers of Jounin rank... against the Raikage and a Sannin. If it indeed did come to a fight, it was looking to be a tough one. Especially as there was bound to be some suprise... something that their intel missed. That small detail could shift the entire encounter.



Reading over the message still, it nearing the time limit, he began to quietly laugh to himself. The thought of him being bested by the likes of the Ryuzoj, even without the Raikage was amusing. He was not a Sannin just because of his immense strength, experience, talent, but his ability to adapt. It was arguably his greatest attribute, his resourcefullness. Kenji crumpled the document up and dropped it at his feet. BOOM! Smoke rose up, filling the area of which Kenji was previous... as the smoke cleared, Kenji was not there, but surely he was off beginning preparation for the task. The meeting was scheduled in the evening in front of the Ryuzoji compound.



Pulsing through the village was a wave of serenity. Was the trend of diabolical moments. This vibe was prime for a killer. It allowed for a clearer and cleaner thought process, though any respectable shinobi was capable blocking out distractions. The sun was declining and Sanosuke and Kenji approached the Ryuzoji compound. It was the Raikage's job to keep the peace, so that's what they were here to do... keep the peace. Both of Kenji's katanas rested on each side of him. On his back was his bow and quiver. Both his gloves of reflection and head protector beamed in the last rays of sun. The Sannin also decided to wear the Ring of Supeketuro, just in case things got more exciting than expected. Sparks let off in the air, pricking at his skin. They were now a few meters from the entrance of the compound being watched by the doorman. The large entrance door bore the symobo of the Ryuzoji clan. Sanosuke asked Kenji if he was ready, he promptly responded. "Yes"



Training: 2332

With Navi to his left and his right hand man, Kenji to his right, Sanosuke felt himself ready for action. He believed as though carrying his original sword that he would normally have on his back would bring a more war like and less negotiable. What he said to Kenji was not a ploy to make Kenji more agreeable to his plan of ending the possible civil war brought up by the Ryuzoji clan. As a kage he had a duty to his people, regular civilians or clansmen from his own village. Even if they are trying to rip apart Kumogakure from the inside, Sanosuke had to try and reason with the clan one more time. Ever since this struggle for power from both factions started, Sanosuke had been working tirelessly with the shinobi council to find out what they can do in order to minimize the possible casualties. Also of course advice to handle both needs of both factions to look out for the greater good of the village form the shinobi council was taken in of the highest regard. They have been working for months on end with trying to resolve the issue. But yet no one would give in. This was the only way that Sanosuke could think of that would spare many civilian casualties from spreading into Kumo.

A servant from the Ryuzoji clan opened the entrance to the compound approached the two Kumogakure shinobi. It was a woman with black haired that was tied in a bun and wearing a black kimono. She bowed low to the Raikage and the ANBU agent beside of him. Of course Kenji would be wearing a mask to this event. He had also seen the weapons that were at Kenji’s sides. Two katanas, both of which that Sanosuke had seen in the fight during the Seven Bells War. If negotiations did fail, then Sanosuke was confident that the lion sage would be able to handle himself rather well. ”Raikage-sama. We have been expecting you. Please this way.” The woman said to him. Sanosuke nodded and silently wished for Reika to watch over him and forgive him should things not go according to plan.

The Ryuzoji compound looked rather large from the inside as him and Kenji entered the serpent seal of the Ryuzoji clan that was the door. Sanosuke tipped his kage formal hat to all of those whom would look upon him and nod towards his direction to show respect. Even though they were caught in on the fine line of a break into a civil war, Sanosuke had to give credit to how respectful they were to him. The clan was very secretive and the members of the Ryuzoji clan that wanted to stay close to clan affairs were taught to be as respectful as possible to those they have never met before in the past. While the woman was guiding them deeper and deeper into the compound, Sanosuke looked towards Navi and gave her a very discrete nod. She must have understood what he meant and soon began to fly around both Sanosuke and Kenji until they were both glittered with a chakra glow powder. That’s when she took off.

When Navi had flown off, the servant looked behind her to look at Sanosuke and Kenji. Sanosuke shook his head in annoyance. ”Forgive me for my pet. She tends to gets excited when she is in places that she hasn’t been in. I’m sure that she shouldn’t cause too much trouble.” Sanosuke said while laughing nervously. The servant nodded and then began to proceed to escorting them to where the meeting would be held. Kenji should know that this was all according to plan. Navi would scout the area where the meeting will held. He had to play it off to the woman that his partner was just a rabid pet that had no training at all. At the moment he was already slightly raising his chakra levels in small flares so the acute senses of his own ANBU would be able to follow the bread crumb trail of chakra spikes. It will lead them right to where the meeting should be held. Those ANBU would be under Kenji’s leadership with the task of keeping all other influences, like reinforcements out of commission should negotiations failed.

Soon they reached the separate compound of where Bokuden’s faction of the Ryuzoji clan wished to meet. It was the size of a rather large household that had several floors from the ground up. It was built similar to a small castle of feudal japan with its slopped rooftops to represent each floor of the building. It looked to be a 7 story building that was renovated with modern day technological advances like light, electricity and even an elevator to reach the other floors. He didn’t know how many ANBU operatives Kenji had brought with him, Sanosuke left that decision to him. Hopefully it is enough to cover all ends of the building. Sanosuke and Kenji shall be the ones to handle the key members of Bokuden’s faction and their private guards. The ANBU should be to keep anyone else from interfereing and entering the fray.

All three of them walked through the serpent door into the building. The servent closed the door after Sanosuke had stepped through it. Crossing over to the elevator, the woman pressed the button that would deliver them upwards to the floor of where the meeting will take place. Each bell ring was just another floor that they had just past. Ting. Ting. Ting. Sanosuke clenched his fist as he prayed that this faction can be talked to without having to violence to be drawn in. Sanosuke was wearing only his kage robes and his usual shinobi attire underneath it. His gauntlets were in its glove form so that should the need arise he would summon them. He believed that Kenji has only seen his swords, Montague and Capulet only once against the zombie horde in Kiri. Hopefully he wouldn’t have a need to summon them once more.

The elevator stopped moving at the 5th floor where the door opened. Sanosuke followed the servant down several hallways until they had reached a large door that had the Ryuzoji crest on it but with a more magnificent and glorifed look on the crest than the ones he had seen previously. The woman opened the door for Sanosuke and Kenji and bowed as she let them both enter the room. When he had gotten himself into the room, Sanosuke removed his footware that he had on to show respect for the guest that were already in the room that the Raiakge was in. He expected Kenji to do the same thing. In front of him were the key members of the Ryuzoji clan that were spearheading the civil Ryuzoji clan war. They each were seated on the ground with a cushion on the knees in rows of 6, leaving a vacant cushion at the head of the seating arrangement. Behind each member was with two guards. One newly selected chuunin level, and the other a veteran jounin level. In the Ryuzoji placement of rank, the chuunin level guard must be more like a squire while the veteran jounin ranked guard was more of their knight training them.

One member that was seated the closest to the head cushion on the right side had long gray hair that went to his back, along with a whitened goatee was wearing a kimono that was darkened blue with the Ryuzoji clan crest on the back of it. All of the people on cushions were wearing this attire to the meeting with slight variations and accessories to the attire for their own personal touch. The guards however were wearing black kimonos and had their weapons to their sides, and no armor whatsovever. The believed that their abilities alone should be enough to stop an incoming attack. A very arrogant move, but something that had to be noted. They had an ability or something that made them so confident that the need for armor wasn’t even needed. Sanosuke noted this as he looked at each member that was sizing up the Raikage with blank expressions. Finally the white bearded man spoke for all of them. Should a fight break out, it won’t be as easy as they assumed it would.

”Ah Lord Raikage. We have been expecting you. Please take a seat.”

Standing beside the Raikage, Kenji wondered just how far this meeting would go. Were the Ryuzoji so stubborn that they would go against the wishes of the Raikage. Deeply rooted in the psyche of the Ryuzoji was their superior fighting skills. Kumogakure was highly grateful to the Ryuzoji for all the fine shinobi they produced… but would it be to their fault; that they would veer away from the Raikage’s wishes. It was surely possible, and that was why the Raikage, Sanosuke and Kenji were both prepared for the scenario that the dispute between the Ryuzoji factions could not be settled civilly. While waiting to be let in for the meeting with the Ryuzoji representatives, Kenji began running through the information he relayed to his ANBU comrades that he had been put in charge of. Kenji gave them specific orders to regulate the perimeter while Kenji and Sanosuke handled all matters inside. It was imperative that the Ryuzoji weren’t allowed to bring in reinforcements if the meeting turned tumultuous. If the agents were doing as they were told, they should already be within the compound gaining advantageous position. I have to be ready for anything, Ryuzoji clan members have been the bane of my existence for quite some time.


The time was nearing as a woman walked towards Sanosuke and Kenji. She bowed to both of them. Kenji nodded and smiled behind his ANBU mask. The woman directed them in, mentioning that Sanosuke’s arrival was highly anticipated. Walking through the door bearing the Ryuzoji symbol, the compound swallowed the Chikara compound. It was absolutely massive. The style in general was straight forward and sturdy, many sharp lines and rigid structures. Even their decorator is strict. Kenji joked internally. Like a knife piercing his side was the anxiety he felt. Never had Kenji been involved in such a pivotal operation; especially since this operation held the future of his village in the balance. He was confident though in his ability, this was what he had trained for, to be able to represent his village in this very manner. He was as prepared as he could be. Both Sanosuke and Kenji had ample intelligence on who they were meeting with; it was now just a matter of utilizing that information to its greatest potential. Walking through the compound, all those whose eyes fell onto the Raikage showed immense respect. It was always an admirable trait of how respectful yet secretive the Ryuzoji were. The Chikara used to be just as secretive until Kenji came along and broke the Chikara’s long tradition of not getting involved in shinobi affairs.



The lady with black hair continued to guide them deeper into the compound. The sniper Kenji was already eyeing the vantage points. Kenji knew his agents well, and he knew those were the spots they would gravitate to. A grim smile was plastered over his covered face. There was a line of black towers, increasing in height as they got closer to their destination. Years of espionage training and experience, Kenji continued to scope the area as he walked, hoping his fellow operatives would pick up the same nuances. As they went further into the compound, the vibe went from respectful to watchful. Every now and then Kenji would throw a sharp glance here and there, and would watch as they would respond by lowering their hand for the hilt of their swords. The scary thing is, these looks are so subtle, if this doesn’t get pass them… They were vigilant all right. Also, it was almost like they couldn’t help but to react to the littlest movement of someone… it was almost eerie… like nothing could get passed them. It was a true testament to the quality of the training all Ryuzoji clansmen were subject to, and the reason why Ryuzoji clansmen always gave Kenji a tough time. Fortunately for Kenji and Sanosuke, the ANBU were well trained also.



Navi, Sanosuke’s combat pet flew off, not before sprinkling them with a glitter, giving them both a glow. At this point, Sanosuke was to be flexing his chakra just enough for the highly sensory sensitive ANB U to pick up on their location. The servant had turned around in response to Navi flying off, drawing minute suspension he supposed. Sanosuke skillfully eased her worries. So far everything was going according to plan. The two had finally been guided to the separate compound where those of Bokuden’s faction decided to meet. They entered the 7 story building. Stepping onto the elevator he began to go over the detail he gave his agents.

　

Flashback

Kenji sat down looking at his fellow ANBU ops. There were a total of 15 agents assigned to this assignment.

I’ve been informed that we’ll be meeting in dragon estate. It is a castle like structure, 7 stories tall. Most of our personnel will be used to detail the outside of the estate. This is because on the inside, security will be much tighter, and much too risky to gain any significant presence. That is why your efforts must be put into finding worthy vantage points. Those points will be used to surveillance the progress of the meeting and any other activity.

You five: Team Perch- I want you overseeing the compound grounds

You five: Team Troop- I want you on the ground.

You three: Team Package- I want you to always keep track of the Raikage’s position no matter what.



Finally, you two: Team Scale- you will be inside the estate. Get in at all costs without being spotted if things go sour, so you’ll need to stay close at all times. The Raikage and I will be on the fifth floor. And finally, all of you, remember to constantly communicate with each other, there is no room for mistakes on this mission



One question Jenito. How will we know if it gets violent? What if we realize too late?




Kenji began to laugh.
The Raikage and I will make sure it is known that a fight has broken out, I assure you. You’re all dismissed.

End of Flashback





Sanosuke and Kenji entered the room where the main members of the Ryuzoji were sitting in knelt positions on cushions. In front of the 6 main members was a cushion in front of them for the guests, and behind them were two guards. One of expected Chuunin rank and the other of Jonin rank. That was a total of 6 Chuunin guards, 6 Jonin guards, and then 6 highly respected members of the Ryuzoji who were assumed to be highly skilled in combat, especially once Kenji saw their attire. The 6 main members that were representing the Ryuzoji were dressed only in dark blue kimonos and only their sword. No armor… I like that. Kenji removed his shoes and took seat next to the Raikage. One of the members with a long white beard spoke. He said that his name was Zakujen.



The man to the left of Zakujen had a single long black braid that went to the center of his back. The masked Kenji sat across from him. The braided man’s eyes seared into, what he could only assume was, the ANBU’s eyes. Remaining completely still, Kenji kept looking forward. All of the members including the guards bore incredible physiques. He could only assume that they had reached their physical peak (Chuunin’s stats are at C-3, Jonin’s stats are at A-3... the members’ stats remain unknown for now). The Ryuzoji sitting across from Kenji also appeared to be the youngest out of all the other members. Deep lines and hardened expressions could be found on the faces of the others, while the one Kenji faced had a look of arrogance and anger.

Team Perch had already taken out two Ryuzoji and were now in a good position, with the Dragon Estate in vision. Team Troop was on the ground making sure there wasn’t too much gathering going on. It was also their duty to make sure not too many people were heading to the Dragon Estate. Team Package was doing a good job of tracking the Raikage’s position and finally, Team Scale were circling the estate, ready for action too. Back to the fifth floor where the meeting was going on, the Raikage was responding to Zakujen, proceeding on. Would they listen to reason, or would other acts have to be taken to secure the safety of Kumogakure?



Back on the outside, Team Troop was staying hidden. While they maneuvered, they heard some of the Ryuzoji talking. "I can't believe the Raikage actually came here." "Is there any chance Zakujen will be convinced?" "Are you serious, there is not a chance. Zakujen is basically Bokuden's puppet. Even though he has left, he is sure to follow his last orders to the tee." "I guess you're right. Well, how much protection did the Raikage bring in case the talks go badly." "That's the kicker, he only brought a single ANBU agent..." They both burst out laughing. "Just an ANBU agent against the Selected Six and their guards??!! Oh my." "Oh my is right, and then once we give them back up, Zakujen will likely be the next Raikage" The ANBU agents looked at each other. They were shocked, they only thought there was a slim chance that things got violent, but it sounded to be a sure thing. This news brought a new dilemma, if a fight was a sure thing, should they go ahead and begin eliminating as many Ryuzoji as possible. "No, we have orders. We're only to intervene if too many begin to move towards the Dragon Estate, until then, we only watch."


Training: 3973

"Ah thank you Zakujen-san, I'm glad that you were all patient enough to wait for me before the meeting started." Sanosuke bowed to the Ryuzoji lord as he made his way towards his own cushion. Before doing so, he removed his shoes of course to follow the tradition before sitting down in his seat. Kenji would do the same thing before he would walk behind Sanosuke and stand behind him as he sat down. The only thing that Sanosuke had on still was his Raikage tradition cap on his head, and the black gloves that he wears on the daily. Nothing militaristic could be seen from his outfit at all. To them all he was just a simple Raikage whom was dumb enough to come to speculated hostile clan to talk about peace. If they did turn this meeting into something more violent, then of course they would be taught to never underestimate him again.

As he sat down, the other members looked at him with the same blank expression that they used to greet him at the door. Surely they were holding in their true emotions. Bouncing between them all, from eyes to eye they all looked like wolves that were baring their fangs on a defenseless rabbit. Soon they will learn how strong a good kick from a rabbit can be. "Not at all, we wouldn't dare start a meeting without you. Even our youngest Ryuzoji members are taught that patience is a virtue that must take time to grow." Zakujen smiled at Sanosuke as he watched the braided Raikage take a seat. This was Zakujen Ryuzoji. He was 63 years old and was rumored to be strong enough to rival even Bokuden in a one on one fight. Both Bokuden and Zakujen have been reported to have been seen together on multiple counts. No doubt that he is the head of the faction. Caution would be his best friend in handling this affair with the utmost diplomacy.

"Well I would like to thank you for the hospitality as well." Sanosuke added in as he looked around the room to the other members. They each nodded in recognition to the kage's compliment. Reserved as usual, Sanosuke said mentally behind his polite smile that he was giving all that were in attendance to the meeting. It was common courtesy to greet your guest with a compliment and also welcome them with a blank expression that has no meaning with a smile to boot. But these Ryuzoji members were masters at it. It made the young kage a bit nervous. What if they had already knew about the operation? Had any of Kenji's men been captured yet? How long has Navi been gone? All of these questions were pounding at his head. Taking a deep breath that wasn't too observant, Sanosuke calmed himself down. Freaking out at a time like this wouldn't solve anything. Everything was fine, his pieces were in position. Now he had to put his pieces to use.

A loud thump could be heard from the arrangement of the cushions. It was coming from the bottom left cushion. It sat a man with rather thick  red eyebrows and red hair. Of course the man was very elderly so it was more like a dark shade of auburn instead of fire red with some grey hair laced in the facial hair as well. He had a rather thick mustache as well. He was also a rather gluttonus man as well judging from his weight; and also very wealth from the jewelry on his body. His face was a dark shade of red as he shook with anger. It cause for Sanosuke to raise his eyebrow at the large man whom was glaring daggers at Sanosuke. "Enough chit chat, we all know pretty damn well why we're all here!" the man roared from his seated position. His guards took time to hold him back from flying at the Raikage to ring his neck.

"Kaiba, you must calm yourself. Lest you wish to gain more wrinkles upon your skin." a feminent looking man that was right beside the large man, who's name is Kaiba apparently was sitting. The man had on silver eyeliner that made his blue eyes even that more radiant. Covering the bottom portion of his face with a fan, the man looked at Kaiba with a very condescending look in his eyes.

This caused for Kaiba to turn his anger and vexed expression to the feminient man instead whom looked as though he might exploded from a giggle fit he was containing with the fan in front of his face. "Who the hell asked you Ryoukai?!" Kaiba roared to the point that they were face to face. The man called Ryuoukai raised his fan in front of the older red head and waved it at a rapid pace to get him to shoe off of him. Had his own guards not came to save Kaiba, Ryuoukai's would have taught the Ryuzoji member some respect.

"Yeah I believe you are correct in that regard Kaiba-sama." Sanosuke said quickly before the other Ryuzoji members ca partake in this outbursts upon outbursts that were coming from the two members. He had to get things on track before something else occurred. His voice was loud enough for everyone in the room to return this focus to him. Every single iris was looking at the Raikage now and what he was about to say or do. Finally he spoke. "Explain to me the situation that involved the death of 11 year old Sayo Ryuzoji....doesn't jog your memory right. Well then let me remind y-" His first part of his sentence ravished the hearts of everyone in the room. Good so they did know what had happened to the girl. But before he could even continue with his opening he was interrupted.

"Take ease Raikage-sama. We know about the death of poor Sayo-chan. And we have taken steps to make sure an incident will not happen again." One member said. This time the man looked to be in his 40s and had a shaved head.

A chuckle came out of Sanosuke's mouth before he shook his head. "Koga-sama with all do respect I must say this. A little girl was caught in the middle of this feud between you all and the rest of the Ryuzoji clan; accidentally knocked down a flight of stairs when one of the members shoved someone in a heated argument. And I was told that this happened a few months ago, and I am now just learning about this without any movements to fix this?" Sanosuke said as he was trying his best to reel in his emotions but it was failing. If he wasn't trying to control his feelings, the Raikage would have been yelling at these key members until his voicebox almost exploded inside of his throat. But he was talking rather slowly and patiently. His teeth was clenched to hold back any anger he was feeling at the moment. He already knew that he was in for a long talk that would try his patience. But if that was what it took to get Kumo through this trial, then so be it. Kumogakure was his prime concern as a whole.

---

5569/5000----> Stat Training: Reaction Time to S Rank

Kenji stood off to the right behind Sanosuke, keeping his eyes peeled on all the key members and their guards. In the midst of such an infamous collection of folks, Kenji had to be alert. These guys were elite shinobi and experts at deception and execution. If they had even a hint of what Kenji was capable of... then 3 would be the maximum he could deal with without Kasfara. In the current situation though, he had no such limit, at least in his opinion. As the talks trudged on, an argument broke out among the Ryuzoji that was sparked by one of the elders flaring his temper at the Raikage. He was restrained by his fellow clansmen. When the outburst first arose, Kenji's right foot slid back a few inches, ready explode. Only a few steps were necessary for Kenji to reach speeds that would leave every person in the room at his mercy. As stated earlier though, the disruption was quickly silenced, and for now, the meeting remained civil.

Outside the Dragon estate, the ANBU were still watching. Team Perch, Team Troop, Team Package, and Team Scale were all executing their duties given to them by Kenji perfectly... but that wouldn't save them from conflict. Swoosh. Team Perch was targeted first.

The Anbu quintet leaped from their position and concentrated chakra to the soles of their feet to run down the tower they were keeping watch from. Behind their masks were faces full of confusion and shock. How did they sense us?! We suppressed our chakra so much that we're barely able to keep up this academy level jutsu. The Anbu unit had planned for many things, and they were lucky this was one. Kenji, espionage guru, had given them specific orders in case they were spotted. It is important to note that being spotted was a incredulous idea to begin with, but they had to take that into account. In the case of their cover being blown... "You all know what to do!" One of the ANBU shouted in a robotic voice. The 5 men split up and began placing explosive tags in crucial parts of buildings. This was to simply serve as obstruction and strategic offense, as they would detonate them at an opportune time.

The next phase: Team Troop knew of the issue arising as more Ryuzoji were going to the Dragon estate building. Their instructions were clear too.

"It looks like it's time to get the Raikage and Jenito out." The ANBU said in a robotic voice.
The 5 ANBU were already engaging outside. The goal was for Team Troop to secure an escape route on ground level, or at least allow them to get into open space to do battle. It was a bad idea to engage fully on the fifth floor of the Dragon Estate.

Next, two of the three ANBU from Team Package was to stay and keep tabs on the Raikage's location, while the third ANBU retreated back to the village.

The last part of the fail safe plan was Team Scale. They were the wild card. As they would already be inside. The two ANBU were highly skilled Kuchiyose users.


Inside the Dragon Estate: Around the time the first shot was fired at Team Perch, Kenji spotted one of the Jounin guards whisper something to his superior. The sight gave Kenji a bad feeling. Then all of a sudden he could sense his ANBU agents cancelling their stealth jutsus. There was no time to waste now. In a blur, Kenji appeared next to Sanosuke in a kneeled position. He placed his hand on his shoulder, but before he could say anything...

Zakujen extended his arm out and shouted "WAIT!" He stood up slowly with his hands up in a surrendering position. The Jounin and Chuunin guards rose quickly afterwards in offensive stances. The remaining 5 of the select 6 rose much more gradually. "There is no need for things to escalate. My men have orders to cease battle on my command. It still awes me to this day how underrated my people are. You have given so much respect, but still you fall short of the respect we deserve." Kenji remembered how when he flexed his muscles ever so slightly to go for a weapon or to feign an attack on the walk to the Dragon estate, they reacted to everything. He also recalled his fights against the strongest Ryuzoji he had ever seen, Bokuden, and how his reflexes surpassed that of anyone he had seen. "Your precautions failed. The puny ANBU that you employ outside are being decimated as we speak. Now this meeting can begin. Unless more bloodshed is what you want, I suggest you sit quietly and listen to the new rules." If Zakujen thought all it took was foresight to stop them, he was sadly mistaken. At this point, Kenji was simply awaiting permission from Sanosuke. Was Sanosuke interested in being entertained by Zakujen's "new rules"? In Kenji's opinion, he felt they should waste no more time. His suggestion would be exiting through the window and giving minimum aid to their men on the ground, then lure out the select 6 to execute them all. Kaiba walked forward and handed Zakujen a scroll, which Kenji assumed had the stipulations written on it. In that time, Kenji proposed his idea of escaping to ground level and luring them out.



Training: 4883

Uhhhhhhh... so this thread was essentially a hijacking of my clan and assumed/controlled parts of Bokuden's plot that I haven't even revealed yet, soooooo....

Every event that takes place in this thread is voided.

One of you easily could have just communicated with me what you actually wanted to do instead of doing this behind my back. I didn't see this before, but it was just recently brought to my attention and I don't really appreciate it. Your rights end where another's begins and hijacking/encroaching on another's plot is bad mannered. In the future when you want to do something like this, please reach out to the person involved.

Darn! It was just getting good too. Jk. Sorry about this Bok. Will definitely run at least the basis of any plot that involves one of your chars/clans past you first.

You can keep the word counts, I'm just not thrilled about learning about my plot from a third party lol

True. I would be flattered if someone plotted about my clan w/o my permission since no one other than myself has ever joined it... :( Jk, im not that desperate for clan recognition... yes i am :((